OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLE SEARCH AND RESCUE
TOUGH ON WHEELS
El Dorado Search and Rescue's Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Unit provides a crucial advantage in accessing El Dorado County's remote wilderness areas, traversing difficult terrain, and reaching those in need.
Specially trained, most of EDSAR's OHV volunteers are off-road enthusiasts who use their own vehicles and equipment for the good cause of saving lives. Although four-wheel drive vehicles are the most prevalent vehicles used, EDSAR's OHV volunteers also use their own All Terrain Vehicles, Utility Terrain Vehicles, and Snowmobiles. Deployment of the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Sno-Cats may also be necessary
Through the generous support of donations by community members and a matching grant from The Latrobe Fund (no County funds were used), the EDSAR OHV Unit was able to acquire two Polaris General vehicles and trailers, one used by EDSAR's West Slope Team and the other used by EDSAR's South Lake Tahoe Team.
EDSAR OHV Unit responds to a mission in the snow using their community-funded Polaris General and their own personal vehicles.
Rescuing a stranded vehicle stuck in a mountain snowstorm
Although EDSAR OHV Unit's primary assignment is rescuing and evacuating search subjects, other assignments include:
Rapidly searching areas and looking for prominent clues
Performing reconnaissance for search pattern optimization
Scouting trails and looking for accessible pathways, obstacles, and hazards for EDSAR's Ground Search Team
Transporting Ground Search and Canine Teams and dogs to and from assigned search areas
Transporting and setting up radio repeater systems
Providing rescue support for off-road events such as the legendary Jeep Jamboree held annually in the Rubicon Trail
To become a member of EDSAR's OHV Unit, individuals must possess a wide range of skills and undergo rigorous training such as:
Advanced Off-Road Driving to navigate challenging terrain, including steep inclines, rocky trails, and water crossings
Vehicle Recovery in case OHV become stuck or damaged in remote areas
Ground Search Technical Proficiency such as GPS and traditional land navigation skills using a map and compass, grid search, tracking
First Aid and Wilderness Medicine to provide immediate care to injured individuals
Wilderness Survival Skills to survive in harsh environments, including shelter building, water procurement, and fire starting
Safety Training to adhere to strict safety protocols, minimize risks, and ensure the well-being of both drivers and passengers
Advanced off-road driving safety course mimics the terrain of El Dorado and Placer County's Rubicon Trail
Our dedicated Off Highway Vehicle Unit volunteers selflessly donate their time, vehicles, and equipment to train and respond to search and rescue missions.
Your support will help us fund essential safety training, fuel, protective gear, and vehicle maintenance, ensuring they can continue their vital work.