Georgia Piedmont Region K-9 Search and Rescue team is a diverse group of volunteers. Our members have included community-minded individuals working in law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, military service personnel, members of the medical profession, animal care workers, computer professionals, retired citizens & homemakers. What we have all had in common is a strong sense of community & love for our four-legged family members. We welcome volunteers & are working hard in fundraising efforts toward enhancing our training programs.
Much of our time is spent training. Most training takes place on Saturdays, but team members will train in smaller groups during the week. Our team consists of support personnel, dog handlers and their canines. All members are required to learn how to be a support person.
While search and rescue work is voluntary, it is also a very serious activity. People’s lives will often depend on our competence and readiness. In addition, we place ourselves in situations which can quickly become dangerous if not managed effectively. Accordingly, all members must be willing to make a commitment to developing the skills and knowledge required to perform effectively and safely. Thus attendance at 70% of all formal training activities is required and it is expected that members will continuously avail themselves of outside training opportunities to enhance their knowledge and competence in all phases of search and rescue work.
Membership Requirements Earned While Training:
- NIMS 100a, 200a, 700a, 800 and 809
- NASAR SARTech II
- Amateur Radio Tech License
- GEMA Search and Rescue Operations or Rescue Specialist
- CPR Certified
- First Aid Certified
K-9 requirements
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification
- Certified by a nationally recognized organization
- Search and Rescue Dog Team License from GEMA