Letting trained searchers handle a rescue operation instead of joining with uncoordinated efforts is critical for safety and efficiency. Here is why untrained volunteers can accidentally hinder a search and rescue (SAR) operation: Preservation of Clues Contaminating evidence: Untrained searchers can easily trample or destroy vital tracks, scent trails, or dropped items. Confusing search dogs: Well-meaning volunteers leave behind new scents, making it much harder for tracking

June 25, 2026 Twenty-one volunteers are now qualified to participate in wilderness search and rescue operations across the region and ready to join the ranks of the Oswego and Onondaga County Search and Rescue teams. “Our teams provide vital life-saving assistance in our communities,” said Oswego County SAR Team Coordinator Aaron Albrecht. “When people call ‘9-1-1’ to report a lost or missing person, our teams are dispatched to support a search.” He explained that, due to the

The Central Square Walmart also provided a Spark Good local grant to the Oswego County Unmanned Aircraft (UAS) Program in support of the Oswego County Pioneer Search and Rescue Team. The $750 donation will be used by the UAS program to support the purchase of a drone for search and rescue operations. Pictured from left are Mike Spink, store manager; Aaron Albrecht, Oswego County Pioneer Search and Rescue team coordinator; and Mark Bender, Oswego County UAS coordinator and Osw

Members of the Oswego County Sheriff's Office assist the Search and Rescue Team in a search for a Project Lifesaver client. Read the full article here .