u/StokePatrol

Genuine question.

After years on patrol and trying to get onto teams out West, I’ve noticed a trend that honestly surprised me. A lot of patrol culture seems less about building strong rescuers and more about cliques, partying, politics, and fitting into the social scene.

It feels like being liked matters more than being capable.

I’ve seen highly skilled patrollers and rescuers leave because they’re tired of working around egos, laziness, substance abuse, and people who have no interest in getting better. Meanwhile, the people who stay often seem content doing the bare minimum as long as they keep the right friendships.

What happened to wanting to be elite at this? To train hard, stay sharp, push standards, and take pride in being the best rescuer you can be?

This job matters. People’s lives depend on it. It shouldn’t just be a lifestyle badge or a party club.

Is this just how it’s always been, or has patrol culture actually changed?

Hey all, looking for some advice on getting onto a SAR/Ski Patrol or other rescue team.

My background:

• 4 years ski patrol (Advanced Patroller/EMT)
• 2 years rural ambulance EMT experience  
• Low-angle rope rescue + some high-angle training
• Experience with pro-longed patient care from mountain to ambulance to hospital
• Public Snow Safety Education with non profit
• CPR/First Aid Instructor
• CPR/First Aid Training business owner
• Planning to get my Paramedic eventually
• Living in a ski town with SAR and multiple patrols
• Love being outdoors and in the backcountry for extended periods

Physically, I’m 6’6”, 230, and comfortable moving with a 70lb pack in rough terrain.

I’ve been applying and reaching out, but keep getting turned down. A lot of it seems to come down to not knowing the right people.

For those already in SAR or on other rescue teams:

• What would my next best step be?

I feel like I have a solid base, just trying to figure out what’s missing. Appreciate any advice.

Hey all, looking for some advice on getting onto a SAR/Ski Patrol or other rescue team.

My background:

• 29 years old
• 4 years ski patrol (Advanced Patroller/EMT)
• 2 years rural ambulance EMT experience  
• Low-angle rope rescue + some high-angle training
• Experience with pro-longed patient care from mountain to ambulance to hospital
• Public Snow Safety Education with non profit
• CPR/First Aid Instructor
• CPR/First Aid Training business owner
• Planning to get my Paramedic eventually
• Living in a ski town with SAR and multiple patrols
• Love being outdoors and in the backcountry for extended periods

Physically, I’m 6’6”, 230, and comfortable moving with a 70lb pack in rough terrain.

I’ve been applying and reaching out, but keep getting turned down. A lot of it seems to come down to not knowing the right people.

For those already in SAR or on other rescue teams:

• What would my next best step be?
• More rope/tech rescue certs?
• Get my medic first?
• Focus on networking and local involvement? Around me is seems like SAR and Ski Patrol are hiring people without any experience, yet I can't get hired or an interview.

I feel like I have a solid base, just trying to figure out what’s missing. Appreciate any advice.