EBS STAFF
In its annual report, Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue reflected on rescues and efforts made in each month of 2023. GCSSAR completed 130 missions, helping 110 people through 3,484 volunteer hours. The organization also provided support for 14 community events and SAR members completed 8,623 hours of training to prepare for rescues, according to the report.
The report also noted a decreased call volume between 2023 and 2022. “Don’t get us wrong, we love the role we play in the Gallatin community, but any time we are called upon, it means someone is having a bad day. In the search and rescue realm boredom is, ultimately, a good thing,” the report stated, explaining that 2023 saw a 7% decrease in the number of calls received.
One-third of missions were for searching while the remaining two-thirds were for rescue endeavors, the report states. GCSSAR cited GPS and tracking technology that has aided in reducing search needs and time.
The report concluded with a statement of gratitude. “If the first days are any indication, 2024 will be off to a hot start, and there will surely be challenges ahead, but thanks to our devoted volunteers and the support of the communities we serve, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) will be ready to meet them.”
