Donations made to search and rescue volunteers

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue unit recently received two donations.

The first gift was a new all-terrain vehicle and trailer donated to the unit by the Marguerite Wattis Peterson Foundation. The ATV will facilitate searches performed in locations where terrain is difficult or impassable for regular DCSAR vehicles to operate, said sheriff's spokesman Sgt. Jim Halsey.

The second gift was a donation of $1,000 from the Michael Sweig Foundation that will go toward purchase of rescue equipment.

"The Douglas County Sheriff's Office and DCSAR members greatly appreciate these two generous donations," Halsey said.

Search and Rescue is an all-volunteer group funded primarily by donations used for the purchase and upkeep of rescue equipment or vehicles.

Members work on back roads and trails, in the desert, in the hills and mountains, along the Carson River corridor, and up at Lake Tahoe in the forests and ski resort runs.

They provide wilderness and snow rescues and searches, water searches and swift water rescues, assist during natural disasters and more, Halsey said.

"Members of DCSAR have saved numerous lives through their selfless, dedicated work," he said. "DCSAR members are prepared to respond at a moment's notice, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."

Anyone wishing to donate to the Search and Rescue Team or those interested in learning more about the program may call 782-9930, 588-0940, or log on http://dcsar.co.douglas.nv.us/