Dozens of dedicated Search & Rescue volunteers gathered at Shevlin Park in Bend on Saturday evening for a realistic training exercise designed by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Incident Management Team. The drill simulated a scenario in which six individuals were reported missing and scattered throughout the park’s trails and forested areas.

Volunteer teams put skills to the test

In total, 48 volunteers formed six search teams, each tasked with locating a missing person, assessing their condition, and providing immediate medical care if needed. Participants used standard SAR equipment, including radios, GPS devices, and first‑aid kits, while navigating the park’s varied terrain.

“Training like this is essential,” said Deputy Sheriff Mark Jensen, who helped coordinate the exercise. “It reinforces teamwork, sharpens our search techniques, and ensures we can respond quickly when real emergencies arise.”

Why the exercise matters for the community

Shevlin Park is a popular recreation spot for hikers, cyclists, and families, making it a logical venue for realistic preparedness drills. By rehearsing missing‑person scenarios, volunteers improve their ability to locate individuals quickly, reducing the risk of serious injury or loss of life.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that its volunteer force remains on call 24/7, ready to assist law‑enforcement officers and emergency responders at a moment’s notice. The agency notes that volunteer‑led SAR operations have historically saved countless lives across Central Oregon.

Community support and future training

Local residents and park visitors observed the exercise, offering words of encouragement to the volunteers. Many expressed gratitude for the dedication of these community members, who balance regular jobs and family responsibilities while committing to public‑safety service.

Looking ahead, the Sheriff’s Office plans additional drills throughout the year, covering a range of scenarios such as water rescues, avalanche response, and disaster‑relief coordination. The goal is to maintain a high level of readiness and to foster strong partnerships between volunteers, first responders, and the broader community.

For those interested in joining the Search & Rescue team, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office encourages inquiries via its website or by contacting the volunteer coordinator directly.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.