Subject: Randy Fay

Randy Fay, Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue President While we are still actively engaged in the 2017 rescue season, I have been reflecting on the year to date. We started off at a frantic pace as the late snow melt created problems for climbers and hikers anxious to get into the mountains and this resulted in many rescues. From mid-season until now we have had an unsettling number of tragedies to deal with in water related accidents. Now we face the transition into our Fall and Winter outdoor activities seasons. Time for all of us to lay out our gear and start advanced planning related to the hazards and challenges that the colder weather will bring to the surface. It is more important than ever to carry your 10 essentials plus. Hypothermia is our greatest enemy in the cold and wet weather of the northwest and is a strong contributor to having a worse outcome in an emergency. Please plan carefully and prudently. SCVSAR will be well prepared to help should you encounter unexpected difficulties. Our teams are constantly training for the challenges that each season brings. Enjoy the Fall season in the mountains and stay safe.

Randy Fay, Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue President As we kind of “slop” our way into this year’s Spring season our personnel are emerging from a winter of extensive training in all disciplines, refurbishing equipment, pre-planning for the upcoming remote area rescue season and conducting our recently held Safety Summit.  We recognize that maintaining a strong vigilance related to safety can be a perishable skill so annually we stand down the organization to conduct a day of safety-themed classes and equipment inspection.  Our highest priority as an organization is to focus on the things that will ensure the safety of our members and those we serve. As our eyes turn to the approaching increase in our mission workload I want to encourage you to conduct your own family safety summit as you prepare to return to enjoying your outdoor sports and recreation.  Please haul out your equipment, check it over, think through the risks you may be exposed to this season and plan accordingly. As we look back on 50 years of service to the community, we also look forward to serving for years to come!  Stay tuned as we roll out some celebratory events this year! Thank you for your […]