Rescue teams are primarily made up of volunteers who train for countless hours each year to save your sorry ass when you’re lost, sick, or injured. They spend sleepless nights searching backcountry terrain, and they often spend their own money and use their own gear to help find you.
You may not have given much thought to the search and rescue squads scattered across the mountains, or maybe you assumed they were paid handsomely for their work. Nearly all of the search and rescue teams in Southern Appalachia are comprised of volunteers who spend their time and money helping you when you need them most.
Now here’s a chance for you to help them. The Buncombe County Rescue Squad is holding an open house and fundraiser meal on Saturday, February 2 from 12-4 p.m. For $10, enjoy the Jumbalaya Jubilee from while you peruse silent auction and raffle items from Black Dome Mountain Sports, Eagle’s Nest Outfitters, the Asheville Tourists, and Wolf Laurel Ski Resort. Then stick around for an open house and demonstrations of ambulances, medical gear, rescue gear, and commonly used rope rescue techniques. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to join a search and rescue squad, this is your chance to talk to squad members and literally learn the ropes.
The entire event is at the Rescue Squad headquarters at 116 Hansel Drive in Asheville. Find out more on the Facebook page here. Can’t make it on February 2? You can also show your support by donating through their site here.
