What are we?

A professional volunteer search and rescue group who specializes in man tracking and tracking resource management to assist local responsible agents in the search for lost or missing persons. Our members are trained and certified by the state to standards specifically created for search and rescue and lost person or missing emergencies.

Where do we respond?

We can respond anywhere requested. Having active members throughout the state we are unique in that we can provide trained and knowledgeable tracking resources within a very short order. As we are a volunteer organization, mission response depends upon member availability.

What does it cost me?

Absolutely nothing. All costs for our operations are funded by the group's fundraising efforts and the individuals involved. For missions over twenty-four hours in length, food, water and a place to sleep are useful, but not required. We come personally equipped with food, water and shelter for 48 to 72 hours.

What about liability?

The Search and Rescue Tracking Institute has a memorandum of understanding with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM). As such, the Commonwealth of Virginia provides us liability coverage for injuries to our members provided we are requested through the state. This is assured by the issue of a mission number given by VDEM (Virginia Department of Emergency Management).

How quickly can we respond?

Once called by VDEM, we can have resources anywhere in Virginia in the amount of time it takes to drive to where we are requested. For example, if there is a search callout in Richmond, VA. The response time, including startup, would be less than one hour.

Who is in charge?

You are. We work for the responsible agent in the jurisdiction that calls us. We can manage the tracking resource portion of entire search mission for you or provide tracking resources or teams depending on your needs. SARTI prides itself on being able to work well with others, whether that's LE, other search and rescue groups, fire/rescue or local volunteer resources.

How do I get you to respond?

By calling the Virginia Department of Emergency Management at 800-468-8892. Tell the communications officer that you have a search and rescue emergency. They in turn will walk you through what you need for your mission, what resources are available to you and then they will call out the resources you request. This system was created with you the RA in mind. If you need tracking resources you will need to request tracking resources.

What do you need from me?

Other than your direction and input we are self sufficient with regards to the actual mission. Our trained management personnel as well as qualified tracking resources including SAR Field Team Members, Field Team Leaders and Field Team Signcutting personnel are there to work for you. We carry our own personal gear, which enables us to sustain ourselves for extended periods of time in the harshest environments under all weather conditions. Many members are medically trained to handle most medical emergencies at base or in the field, not to mention when we find the subject.