Whatcom County Search and Rescue 4×4 unit
The Whatcom County Search & Rescue 4×4 Unit is a dedicated group of trained volunteers committed to serving our community in times of need. With a current roster of 28 members, each volunteer is at least 18 years old, operates a street-legal 4WD or AWD vehicle, and meets Washington Administrative Code requirements (WAC 118-04-120 and WAC 118-04-200) prior to deployment. Members participate in regular trainings to maintain readiness and engage with the community through events such as Ski to Sea, the Blossom Time Parade, Lynden Lighted Parade, and Pioneer Days.
In addition to missions and training, the unit fundraises to support essential equipment and ongoing education, ensuring preparedness for a wide range of incidents—from searches for missing hikers, hunters, off-roaders, and vulnerable individuals to large-scale emergencies such as severe weather and natural disasters. Our team is made up of volunteers from diverse backgrounds and professions, bringing a broad range of skills and experience. Equipped with specialized resources, the Whatcom County Search & Rescue 4×4 Unit stands ready to respond whenever called upon.
EVENTSCOMMON QUESTIONS
How much do Search & Rescue members get paid?
SAR is 100% volunteer. Not only is there no pay, each member is also responsible for supplying & maintaining their own equipment. (ie. gas, maintenance, rescue equipment, radios, etc.)
How often do you get called out?
We sometimes go months without getting called, and sometimes we get called 4 times in a weekend. 60% of our calls are on Sunday nights. Our busy season is generally the winter months with lots of vehicle recoveries.
How often do you train?
Training is offered at each meeting; we have an annual 3-day practice in April, an annual 3-day academy in October, the annual State Conference in May, and a practical field training once a month. Additionally, we often attend joint training with other units and partner agencies.
oUR HISTORY
The Whatcom County Search and Rescue 4×4 unit started as a group of friends that hung out in the garage working on their Jeeps and 4×4’s on the weekends. One of the guys was a close friend of a local deputy. Since these guys spent all their spare time in the woods either wheeling, hunting, camping or fishing, they knew the area and trails very well. When there was a lost person, the deputy would swing by the garage and ask them to help look for the missing subject. In 1970, these guys decided to make it official, and the Whatcom County Search and Rescue 4×4 Unit was born. There are still a few of the original members in the group today.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Whatcom County Search and Rescue Council, its units and volunteers are on-call 24/7. If there is an emergency, call 911. If someone is lost, please don’t wait to call for help. Time is of the essence.
Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding joining, our capabilities, donating, or any other non-emergency questions. Someone will get back to you with a response. For more information on how to contact us visit our contact page.
Our building is unstaffed.
LOCATION
Whatcom County Search and Rescue
1041 W Smith Rd, Bellingham WA 98226
