Speaking Events and Educational Presentations

Educational for Police, Fire, Emergency Personnel, and other SAR Teams

CCSAR offers a suite of professional training classes designed to support partner agencies during search operations. Available courses include basic search and rescue skills, search management concepts, and practical navigation. Agencies may also request specialized instruction such as our Annual Invitational Water Training with a Master Trainer.

Educational Outreach to Schools, Camps, and Community Groups

CCSAR will also make presentations to civic and school groups when scheduling permits; topics can include “Safety in the Woods,” “How Canine Search and Rescue Works,” and reading to youngsters “Emma and the Night Dogs.”

The 10 Essentials

Heading into the outdoors means being prepared, and that’s where the 10 Essentials come in. Developed by search and rescue and outdoor experts, this list includes navigation tools, sun protection, extra clothing, a light source, first aid supplies, fire starters, a repair kit and tools, extra food, extra water, and emergency shelter. These items ensure that if something unexpected happens—like getting lost, injured, or delayed—you have the basic gear needed to stay safe, warm, hydrated, and visible. Even on short hikes, conditions can change quickly, and help may take time to arrive. Carrying the 10 Essentials gives every hiker the ability to respond to emergencies, make smart decisions, and safely return home.

Navigation (Map, Compass, GPS)

Helps you stay on route and find your way if you get turned around. Batteries die — a paper map never does.

Sun Protection (Hat, Sunscreen, Sunglasses)

Prevents sunburn, heat stress, and long-term skin damage, even on cloudy days

Insulation (Extra Layers)

Weather changes fast — dry, warm layers prevent hypothermia if temperatures drop or you get stuck overnight.

Illumination (Flashlight or headlamp + extra batteries)

Makes travel and signaling possible after dark, whether you planned to stay out late or not.

First Aid Supplies

Allows you to treat scrapes, blisters, stings, and stabilize injuries until help arrives.

Fire (Matches, Lighter, Firestarter)

Provides warmth, light, comfort, and a way to signal rescuers if needed.

Repair Kit & Tools (Multi-tool, Knife

Essential for fixing broken gear, cutting cord or cloth, preparing kindling, and handling unexpected situations.

Extra Food

Keeps energy and body heat up if your hike goes longer than expected.

Extra Water (And a way to treat more)

Prevents dehydration, supports thinking clearly, and replaces water lost during exertion.

Emergency Shelter (Bivy, Tarp, Space Blanket)

Protects you from wind, rain, and cold if you must stop moving, wait for help, or spend an unplanned night outdoors.

Recommended Reading

The Fundaments of SAR by Don Cooper

Based on the latest Search and Rescue knowledge, skills, tools, techniques, technology and best practices.

Scent and the Scenting Dog by William Syrotuck

Understand how and why a dog can work scent. This book explains the composition of scent, how it works in the dog’s nose, and what affects scent.

Lost Person Behavior by Robert Koester

A cornerstone of search and rescue efforts. Based on a landmark study, this book is the definitive guide to solving the puzzle of where a lost person might be found.

Important Links

National Association for Search And Rescue
K9 Specialty Search Associates – Andy Rebmann and Marcia Koenig
CERT
International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF)
FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency