Salt Lake County Search and Rescue was awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation for bravery and outstanding service by its members functioning as a team for 2017.
In 2017 the 28 citizen volunteers team that makes up Salt Lake County Search and Rescue responded to 84 incidents, rescuing 80 citizens and recovering 10 deceased individuals. All was done with 8494 volunteer hours saving the citizens of Salt Lake County hundreds of thousands of dollars while maintaining required certifications and supporting and educating the public about safety. SAR volunteers risk personal safety to rescue and save lives proving to be the epitome of selfless service to the community. In 2017, the SAR team hosted and instructed a 16 hour basic Rock Rescue class for 60 members from Search and Rescue agencies throughout the state. Team members have traveled to other states to instruct, train and gain valuable certifications and knowledge to benefit the safe rescue and recovery efforts to the citizens and visitors of Salt Lake County. The team members receive no monetary compensation for their personal expertise, knowledge, equipment, and transportation to and from these events. During the summer months and some weekends, the team sometimes respond to as many as three rescues a day. Some responses last throughout the night and into the next day. These devoted and dedicated volunteers take time out of their work schedules, family life and personal time to ensure the citizens of Salt Lake County are protected and saved when the calls for help come in.
The Search and Rescue Team has been the subject of many news stories by local news agencies which has brought very positive light to the Office of the Sheriff. One of their rescues was even part of the Super Bowl Lll Commercial.
