Mason County Search and Rescue Dive Team

06/12/2026

Interagency communication, coordination, and mutual support lay the foundation of efficient and effective emergency response and preparedness. Nice work MCSAR -Mason County Strong!

We want to take a moment to highlight one of Mason County’s most critical emergency response resources — the Mason County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Rescue Team (SORT)!

SORT is a multi-jurisdictional team of highly trained law enforcement officers and fire district personnel dedicated to responding to the most challenging, high-risk rescue missions in our region. When incidents are too hazardous, complex, or technical for standard first responders, SORT steps up. Their capabilities include technical high-angle rope rescue, swift water rescue, and backcountry rescue operations… skills that require an incredible level of dedication and training to maintain.

Much of SORT’s work takes place right here in our backyard - in the Olympic National Forest, along the Skokomish River, and at locations like the High Steel Bridge - places many of us hike, explore, and enjoy. Having SORT as a resource is something every resident and visitor in Mason County should know about and be grateful for.

A huge thank you to the Mason County Sheriff’s Office and all the participating fire districts (you know who you are! 👇🏼) that make this team possible through their commitment, coordination, and resources.

So where does MCSAR fit in?

While our volunteers have been actively training in technical rope rescue skills, MCSAR is not currently authorized or operational for high-angle rescues. That responsibility belongs to SORT. However, we are sometimes called upon to support SORT on missions - and that’s exactly why our joint training together matters so much!

Training alongside SORT prepares our teams to operate seamlessly when it counts most. We put in the effort to understand each other’s capabilities, communication, and protocols so when we show up together on a mission, we function as one cohesive team rather than strangers on a hillside.

That kind of interoperability doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because teams like SORT invest the time to train with partners like us, and we’re grateful for it. 🙏

If you live, work, or play in Mason County, know that these dedicated professionals and volunteers are ready when you need them most. 💪

Mason County Sheriff's Office
West Mason Fire - WA
South Mason Fire & Rescue
The Mighty Mason 6
Hoodsport Fire and EMS
(Please let us know if we missed anyone!)
They are unsung heroes. They don't always get a mention. But that's not why they do what they do.

06/12/2026

Mason County Strong. ❤️ Condolences to the family. In such heartbreaking circumstances, we are grateful for the responders—volunteer and career alike—who step up to help others when it matters most.

:::UPDATE::: 9:45AM 6/11/26

Last night, recovery teams successfully recovered the remains of a male believed to be in his early 20s from below the High Steel Bridge.

The initial call came in after a citizen observed what appeared to be a body in the area below the bridge. Other citizens nearby used a drone to confirm the presence of a deceased individual and notified authorities.

Out of respect for the family and pending next-of-kin notifications, no identifying information will be released at this time. The investigation remains ongoing.

We appreciate the assistance of our partner agencies and the citizens who promptly reported what they observed.

~40
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Recovery Operation Underway Near High Steel Bridge

Mason County Sheriff’s Office personnel are currently on scene below the High Steel Bridge after a body was discovered in the area. The location was later confirmed through drone imagery.

Members of Jefferson Search and Rescue, Olympic Mountain Rescue, Mason County Search & Rescue MCSO SORT personnel, West Mason Fire - WA deputies, and detectives are actively working together on a recovery mission.

We ask the public to remain away from the area while emergency personnel safely conduct recovery operations. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available and appropriate for release.

We appreciate the assistance of our partner agencies and the public’s cooperation during this ongoing operation.

~40

05/30/2026

🚤 Before you head out on the water: Have a plan. Be prepared for the unexpected. Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.

A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference when things don’t go as planned. Stay safe and enjoy your time on the water. 🌊

05/30/2026

As Water Safety Month comes to a close, remember that water safety is important year-round.

✅ Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water.
✅ Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.
✅ Check weather, water, and tide conditions before heading out.
✅ Avoid alcohol and drugs while boating or swimming.
✅ Keep a close eye on children—designate a water watcher.
✅ Carry appropriate safety equipment and know how to use it.

A few simple precautions can prevent a tragedy. From all of us at the Mason County Dive Team, have a safe and enjoyable summer on the water. 🚤🌊⚓

05/24/2026

We are proud to serve!

We are deeply grateful for the search and rescue volunteers and teams serving Mason County and communities across Washington. These dedicated individuals respond in all weather conditions and terrain, often at great personal risk, contributing their time, skills, and equipment without compensation.

Mason County Search & Rescue
Mason County Search and Rescue Dive Team

The proclamation highlights the critical role SAR teams play in protecting Washingtonians and visitors throughout the state’s parks and wilderness areas. It also acknowledges the historic December 2025 flooding, during which SAR personnel conducted 383 emergency rescues and approximately 1,000 assisted evacuations across Washington state.

Governor Ferguson urged all Washingtonians to join in recognizing the extraordinary service of search and rescue volunteers this week.

Source: Washington State Governor’s Proclamation, signed May 20, 2026.

03/29/2026

With warmer weather approaching, activity on local waterways will increase.

The Mason County Search and Rescue Dive Team reminds the public to PLEASE boat responsibly and always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Many water emergencies are preventable, and wearing a life jacket significantly improves your chances of survival.

Boat smart. Wear your life jacket. Stay safe on the water.

01/20/2026

Everyday is a good day to train!

Divers use ropes to create structured underwater search patterns, allowing for systematic coverage—especially in low-visibility conditions where touch and controlled sweeps are essential. Ropes act as guides, help mark locations, and allow surface teams to communicate direction through rope signals, ensuring thorough, non-overlapping searches for missing persons or objects.

12/24/2025

Have a safe and happy holiday season!