Organization supported by donations

With an annual budget of only $1,500 a year, Douglas County Sheriff's Search and Rescue relies heavily on community donations from food donated by casinos during operations to vehicles, trailers and other items.

n Gardnerville student Landon Wynar, 14, will have a booth from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Carson Valley Sertoma 14th annual Chili Cookoff and Craft Fair at the Carson Valley Inn Parking lot. Landon is raising money for the Search and Rescue dog and the Douglas County Animal Shelter for his Eagle Scout project.

n The annual Escape From Prison Hill half marathon and two-person relay is set for 7 a.m. April 29 from Silver Saddle Ranch, Carson River Road in Carson City. Proceeds from the race will go to Douglas County Sheriff's Search and Rescue.

"It's so much fun," said Search and Rescue volunteer Dana Wing. "It's billed as the hardest race this side of the Mississippi with a 9,000-foot elevation change in 13.5 miles."The entry fee $40 solo or $70 relay. Information, Jeff Mark, 1-775-230-8483, or tahoemtnmilers.org. Participants can register online or the day of the marathon.

STAYING SAFE

Most people don't get lost on purpose.

"I don't believe anybody sets out to have Search and Rescue and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office be involved in their family," said operations leader Shaun Thomas said, adding, "The Search and Rescue message can be difficult to get out."

Borrowing from the Boy Scouts, Thomas said the main message is: "Be prepared."

"Preplan activities so if something goes wrong, you're easy to find and bring home," he said.

"Tell friends and family what activities you are going to be doing, when you're due back in the area. If there are changes, be sure to leave some type of message," he said.

That includes children after school who decide to take a dirtbike out for the afternoon without telling Mom or Dad or another responsible adult.

"It could be lifesaving if something did occur like you hit a rock and broke your leg," he said.

Volunteer Karen Kerley who is trained in swiftwater rescue and mantracking, offered practical suggestions for the outdoor enthusiast.

"Be prepared to stay out longer than you expect," she said.

Let somebody know where you're going to be and when you expect to be back.

Cell phones can be a hindrance and a help.

Sometimes, they equip cell phone users with a sense of security until they realize there is no reception, or they've dropped the cell phone in the water.

Skiers should equip themselves with avalanche beacons.

Other suggestions include making sure you're wearing clothing appropriate for the activity and have family service radios. Whistles, mirrors and flashlights also come in handy along with extra, working batteries.