The Fresno County Sheriff’s Jeep Rescue Unit supports the Sheriff’s Office by responding to search and rescue missions, as well as fire, flood, and other emergency situations.

 

We are a team of trained, mission-ready volunteers who are on call to respond when needed, day or night, in any weather, and across all types of terrain.

​

Our Story

In 1965, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office recognized the need to improve response times for searches in the backcountry areas of the Sierra National Forest.

 

To help solve this, the Sheriff reached out to the only four-wheel drive club in the area at the time, the Four-Wheel Drive Club of Fresno.

 

Six members stepped forward, volunteering their vehicles, their time, and their knowledge of the local trails. With the Sheriff’s approval, that original group formed what would become the Fresno County Sheriff’s Jeep Rescue Unit.

 

What started as a small group of volunteers has grown into one of the most capable off-highway search and rescue teams in the state.

 

What We Do

Today, the unit continues to support the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office by providing access to areas that are difficult or impossible to reach with standard emergency vehicles.

 

We respond to search and rescue missions, assist during emergencies and disasters, and support operations that require mobility in remote terrain.

 

Training & Readiness

All members of the unit are first aid certified, with some holding advanced training as First Responders, EMTs, and Paramedics.

 

Team members are trained in map and compass navigation, GPS navigation, man-tracking, and search and rescue techniques.

 

Members are also registered as Disaster Service Workers through the California Emergency Management Agency and may respond to mutual aid requests in other counties when requested by the Sheriff’s Office.

 

Our Team

The unit is made up of sworn volunteers who are dedicated to serving the public.

 

Each member contributes their time, skills, and experience to support the mission of the team. What began as a small group of local off-road enthusiasts has grown into a highly trained and coordinated unit built on commitment, teamwork, and service.

​

Why It Matters

Search and rescue operations often take place in remote areas where access is limited and time is critical. Our ability to navigate difficult terrain and respond quickly helps support search efforts when it matters most.