Stafford Volunteer Ground Search and Rescue (Stafford VGSAR) is an all volunteer search and rescue group serving Stafford County, Virginia, and upon request, the State of Virginia.

VGSAR members are designated volunteers for Stafford County Sheriff’s Office and respond only at the request of the Sheriff’s Department.  Larger, statewide callouts are normally coordinated via the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM).  In such cases, VDEM coordinates with the Sheriff’s Office for support.

IF YOU HAVE A SEARCH AND RESCUE EMERGENCY, CONTACT STAFFORD COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT BY CALLING 911. DO NOT contact VGSAR volunteers.

Search and rescue missions originate from a variety of situations, from missing hikers and children at play, to those suffering from Alzheimer's disease.  These situations are never convenient and volunteers can expect to respond at nights and on weekends.  Volunteers are typically notified via cell phone.

VGSAR volunteers are just that.  They receive no compensation for their service beyond the satisfaction of helping others. They provide their own personal equipment at their own expense, and contribute significant time toward acquiring and maintaining search and rescue skills.

Search and rescue is a life-saving endeavor and a capability every community needs. Most volunteers are drawn to the field aspect of search and rescue, but there are a variety of important yet less physically demanding roles to be filled in major search operations. 

ARE YOU INTERESTED?

If you enjoy being outdoors or simply want to serve your community, click on the link below to download an application, fill it out and email or fax it to Sgt. C.W. Reed, Stafford County Sheriff's Office.

Phone: 540-658-4971 Fax: 540-658-4419
Download SAR Application (click here)

To learn more about Stafford VGSAR and see a calendar of upcoming events, visit the group website at: www.staffordvgsar.org.