WCSO SVU

If you’re interested in making a difference in the community, Washoe County Sheriff's Search & Rescue invites you to attend their upcoming Specialized Vehicle Unit (SVU) Open House to learn more about how you can become a member and contribute to their mission.

WCSO says they are responsible for search and rescue operations across 6,608 square miles of varied terrain and climates within Washoe County.

Their Search and Rescue team consists of six units, staffed by over 400 volunteers, who collectively contributed more than 5,062 man-hours in 2023 alone.

The WCSO Specialized Vehicle Unit Volunteer Open House & Recruitment will be held on Saturday, October 19 at the Regional Public Safety Training Center, 5190 Spectrum Blvd in Reno from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

WCSO says whether you’re an experienced ATV/UTV owner or simply passionate about serving others, join them tomorrow to learn how you can play a vital role in life-saving missions across our region.

WCSO says that their SVU which was founded in 1996, is an essential component of their overall Search and Rescue Team and plays a crucial role in enhancing search and rescue operations throughout Washoe County by utilizing specialized vehicles, including ATVs, boats, and snowmobiles.

The SVU vehicles enable teams to navigate the county’s diverse and often challenging terrain. In severe weather, fully equipped rescue boats are vital for water-based rescues, while snowmobiles and ATVs allow access to snow-covered or rugged areas that are otherwise unreachable on foot. These vehicles not only speed up response times but also transport essential rescue equipment, making them invaluable for life-saving missions in difficult environments.