Sierra Madre Search & Rescue

Sierra Madre Community Foundation was able to provide of grant of $4,700 to SMSR too help modernize their mobile command infrastruce. Many people are familiar with the physical aspects of what it takes for the Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team to accomplish its mission. The role of technology is not as visible as Team members carrying their backpacks, but technology is an essential part of any search and rescue operation.

Part of this mission-critical technology includes the powerful mapping software the Team uses to create custom maps and manage field teams during the search for missing hikers. Detailed maps can be created to help guide teams into the areas to be searched.  The field teams also make use of satellite messenger units that transmit each team's location and allow it to be displayed in real-time on the search maps. Updates can be automatically transmitted every few minutes to generate a "track" to assess search efforts. The units also serve as signaling devices should an emergency occur and radio communication be limited. 

“"The generous gift from the Sierra Madre Community Foundation has allowed the Team to expand its access to both of these vital technologies”
Robert Klusman, SMSR President