We are a volunteer search and rescue team and provide life-saving services to the communities of California, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We specialize in three disciplines, wilderness search, technical rock rescue, and snow and alpine search.
When anyone gets lost in the rugged Californian outdoors, we are trained and prepared to assist those in trouble.
While we are based in our home county of San Mateo, we frequently work with other agencies across California.
We are committed to serving, regardless of the environment or altitude.
We are sometimes called upon by the Sheriff’s office to assist in searching for evidence in criminal cases.
We specialize in low- and high-angle rescue using the twin tensioned-rope system (TTRS).
We often operate in avalanche terrain, on steep snow and ice, and at altitude where the cold and exposure are unforgiving.
BAMRU is a part of the San Mateo County’s Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Division, Emergency Services Bureau / Office of Emergency Services but can be activated for operations anywhere in California. Places we train include but are not limited to the Santa Cruz mountains, Yosemite, and throughout the Sierra mountains to prepare for the variety of conditions we can encounter.
We are an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (Federal ID 23-7098709). Our members volunteer their own time and absorb personal equipment expenses for training and searches. Through the generous support from the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office and generous donors like you, we are able to acquire team rescue equipment. No payment is expected from those who benefit from our services although donations are welcome and greatly appreciated.