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Membership
Membership
Being a member of the team takes time and commitment, and a financial outlay of $3000 or more for required gear.
Team Requirements
Team Requirements
Bear Valley SAR will provide all of the training that a new will need to become an effective team member. Recruits need only to have a willingness to learn and a strong desire to help others in a time of need.
Your Commitment
Your Commitment
Bear Valley SAR is looking for team members who are willing to volunteer at least five years of service to the community. Hundreds of hours of training are required to develop highly skilled rescuers who are ready to respond at a moment's notice when lives are at risk.
Join the Bear Valley Search and Rescue Team
Join the Bear Valley Search and Rescue Team
Join a team of dedicated volunteers who bring hope and aid to those in need across the alpine backcountry. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson or new to mountain rescue, we welcome your passion, commitment, and teamwork.
What You'll Gain
What You'll Gain
Comprehensive Training – Wilderness travel, high-angle rope rescue, winter operations, vehicle handling, and more.
Community Impact – Directly contribute to saving lives and supporting your neighbors.
Lifelong Camaraderie – Forge strong bonds with a tight-knit group of outdoor-minded volunteers.
Leadership Opportunities – Advance into team leadership, training roles, or specialized rescue disciplines.
Member Requirements
Member Requirements
Who can join?
Be at least 18 years of age
Be a legal resident of the United States
Have a high school diploma or G.E.D.
Pass a physical exam
Pass an oral interview
Pass a background check
Have a valid California Driver's License
Have current automobile insurance
Live within the Big Bear Valley. Not you? Check out one of our sister teams!
Once accepted onto the team, team members must:
Participate in missions
Attend monthly team meetings (Monday evenings) and trainings (Saturday, all day)
Attend Basic Training and other continuing education
Be physically fit with the ability to carry 40+ pound pack over long distances
Maintain a personal 24-hour pack
Have current CPR certification and automobile insurance
Support the team with a specialized role (vehicles, technical, fundraising, leadership, etc.)
How to Get Started
How to Get Started
- Submit Your Preliminary Application
Download and fill out the preliminary application form. Select "Big Bear (Bear Valley S&R)" for the team. Then email the completed form to bvsarteam@sbsar.org.
- Attend Team Meetings
After your preliminary application is accepted you'll need to attend at least three consecutive team meetings.
- Submit Your Formal Application
The formal application includes more detailed personal information, a background check, a physical, and an oral interview with the Team Board. If accepted, your application will be voted on by the team at the next team meeting.
- Attend Basic Search and Rescue
BSAR is the foundational course in search and rescue tactics used by San Bernardino County, and is a requirement for all team members.
- Your Service Begins
From here you can begin participating in searches, advanced training, and team development.
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