Welcome to Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue

Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue (SBCSAR) was established by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department to provide vital emergency search and rescue services for Santa Barbara County and surrounding areas to those in need.

Through highly trained and dedicated first responders and volunteers, we provide skilled and compassionate assistance to those in distress, while promoting outdoor safety and awareness through education and outreach within our community. We work collaboratively with other agencies and organizations to keep residents and visitors safe in the backcountry 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Search and Rescue Operations

  • Technical Rope Rescue

    The team trains and responds to rope rescues for hikers and motorists using advanced techniques and equipment.

  • Tracking

    Tracking

    SBCSAR employs tracking and sign-cutting methods to locate lost hikers and aid in investigations.

  • Mountain Bike Response

    Mountain Bike Response

    SBCSAR's mountain bike team, composed of skilled volunteers, employs bikes to cover rugged terrain swiftly, reach remote areas, and transport supplies.

  • Search Dogs

    Search Dogs

    SBCSAR utilizes certified dogs for enhanced search capabilities in finding missing persons.

  • Incident Command

    SBCSAR uses ICS for streamlined emergency response coordination, prioritizing safety for team and public.

  • UAV Operations

    UAV Operations

    SBCSAR employs drones equipped with infrared cameras to locate and rescue individuals in rugged terrain quickly.

  • Off-Road Operations

    Off-Road Operations

    SBCSAR uses off-road vehicles to efficiently reach individuals requiring assistance on nearby trails and remote backcountry.

  • Helicopter Operations

    Helicopter Operations

    SBCSAR collaborates with the Sheriff's Department to utilize their helicopter, enabling quick access to remote areas.

  • Fire & Storm Evacuations

    Fire & Storm Evacuations

    SBCSAR provides expertise, support, and rescue operations for individuals affected by weather events.

  • Swiftwater Rescue

    Swiftwater Rescue

    Rescuers maneuver through turbulent waters, avoiding obstacles while ensuring personal safety and saving victims.

  • Snow & Ice Operations

    The Team receives specialized training in alpine, snow, and ice operations to effectively respond to mutual aid requests from other SAR teams. Learn More

  • Mutual Aid

    Mutual Aid

    SBCSAR aids not only Santa Barbara County but also extends assistance to other areas of California.

  • Emergency Beacons

    Emergency Beacons

    SBCSAR responds to various emergency alert beacons, including Emergency Locating Transmitters (ELTs) carried in aircraft for crash alerts.

  • Project Lifesaver

    Project Lifesaver

    The Team uses tracking devices with unique frequencies to locate at-risk individuals, achieving a 100% success rate.

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”It is widely believed that charging people for rescues discourages or delays people from calling for help. This can lead to potentially compromising scenarios for the patient and rescuers who may be called later when the situation worsens, placing them at greater risk.”

Help Support Our Mission

You can support Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue (SBCSAR) by donating funds, volunteering your time, or spreading awareness about the organization and the services they provide. The organization relies on donations to purchase and maintain essential equipment, fund training programs, and support volunteers. Volunteering your time can directly contribute to the team's efforts and help to save lives. Spreading awareness can help increase visibility and encourage others to get involved. Supporting Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals in the area.

SBCSAR is an all-volunteer, not–for–profit professional rescue organization serving under the direction of the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office. SAR rescuers are dispatched through the 911 system and respond to emergencies in collaboration with Fire, U.S. Forest Service, and other first responder agencies.