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Additional Resources:

Explore a comprehensive range of educational resources for search and rescue professionals. Here we list other valuable training materials, certifications, and tools to enhance your skills in SAR operations. Access free online courses, specialized certifications, and expert-led guides to improve your readiness for real-life rescue missions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned SAR member, these resources will help you stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and industry standards to save lives and improve operational efficiency

Access a wide range of educational resources from the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR). NASAR offers training courses, certifications, and valuable materials to support SAR professionals in enhancing their skills and readiness for real-world operations

Explore free online training resources from the Arkansas Search and Rescue Association (ASARA) to enhance your search and rescue skills. Access courses on topics like incident command, tracking, K9 training, and more to supplement your SAR readiness and improve field performance.

Independent Search and Rescue Resources


Serve with compassion. Train with courage. Rescue with heart.

Search and Rescue (SAR) isn’t just for big teams or government agencies. Independent SAR responders are trusted individuals who bring vital skills, gear, and readiness to the field—working alongside law enforcement, emergency management, private investigators, and established SAR teams.
 

If you’ve ever felt called to help—but are not interested in team drama—this path might be for you.

Why Go Independent?

✔ Ability to maintain high standards
✔ Freedom to specialize in what you love—drones, K9, tracking, mapping, backcountry
✔ No team politics
✔ Direct collaboration with professionals in need of your unique skills
✔ Serve where you’re most needed, when you’re able

What Independent Search Resources Can Offer:

• Drone Aerial Imaging
• Wilderness Navigation & Tracking
• SAR K9 Deployment
• GPS & ICS Communication Support
• Medical & First Aid Response
• Self-sustained, field-ready assistance

Is It Right for You?
You don’t need a title—you need grit, gear, and a service mindset. As an independent, you’ll train hard, stay prepared, and show up ready to support. You’ll earn trust by how well you work with others, not by a title, certification, or patch on your sleeve.
 

Whether you're already trained or just starting out, there's a place for people who want to do good, stay adaptable, and avoid the drama of a team.

Recommended Training:

FEMA Courses:

IS-100.c – Introduction to the Incident Command System - FREE

  • Overview of ICS principles, roles, and structures.

IS-200.c – Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response - FREE

  •  Builds on IS-100, focusing on operations at small incidents.

IS-700.b – National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction - FREE

  • Explains the purpose, principles, and components of NIMS.

IS-800.d – National Response Framework, An Introduction - FREE

  • Details how the federal government responds to disasters and large incidents.

IS-5.A – Introduction to Hazardous Materials - FREE

  • Learn the basics of recognizing hazardous materials, understanding risks, and knowing how to protect yourself and others in a contaminated environment.

First Aid Training:

NASAR WFA - Wilderness First Aid - $200-400

  • A 16-hour course that teaches how to handle medical emergencies and injuries in remote or outdoor areas.

Adult, Child, and Baby First Aid/CPR/AED (American Red Cross or equivalent) - $90

  • Teaches how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies, use an AED, and provide basic first aid for all age groups.

Bloodborne Pathogens Training (American Red Cross or equivalent) - $35

  • Teaches how to prevent exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials while providing aid.

Specialty & Support Training:

Helicopters in Search and Rescue (Mountain Rescue Association) - FREE

  • Learn how to work safely around helicopters during SAR missions, including loading, landing zones, and communication with flight crews.

Crime Scene Preservation, Protocol, and Evidence Awareness (NASAR) - $20

  • Learn how to recognize and protect crime scenes during search missions without contaminating evidence.

​CalTopo for SAR Mission Management (NASAR) - FREE

  • Learn how to use CalTopo mapping software to plan, track, and manage search missions using real-time GPS, grids, clues, and terrain tools.

GPS Endorsement (NASAR) - $30

  • Teaches how to properly use handheld GPS units in SAR operations. Covers waypoint navigation, track logs, route planning, and how to use GPS alongside maps and compasses.

Youth Protection Training (Boy Scouts of America) - FREE

  • Teaches how to recognize, prevent, and properly respond to youth protection issues. Covers appropriate behavior, mandatory reporting, and maintaining safe environments when working with minors.

FCC Amateur Radio License (Technician Level) - $35

  • Teaches you how to legally operate amateur (HAM) radios used for emergency communications. Covers basic radio operations, frequencies, and safety rules.

Search and Rescue Technician:

SARTECH III (Entry-Level Responder) - $70

  • Focuses on basic searcher knowledge. Covers survival skills, land navigation, search techniques, and basic incident command understanding.
    ✔ Perfect for volunteers new to SAR looking to support field operations.

SARTECH II (Field Searcher Certification) - ~$200

  • Tests full field readiness, including navigation with map and compass, clue awareness, basic rope handling, patient packaging, and working within search teams.
    ✔ Standard for independent responders and team field searchers.

SARTECH I (Team Leader/Advanced Field Certification) - ~$200

  • Focuses on leading field teams during a mission. Tests advanced navigation, team management, resource deployment, and decision-making under pressure.
    ✔ Ideal for those planning to lead teams or manage field operations.

Books & Study Materials: ~$200

Grand Total:  $1,102

*Seminars, All Travel Expenses, and Gear are NOT Included

*Prices Subject to Change

The investment is real — but so is the impact. Ready to step up?

Let’s talk!

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