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Preventive Search & Rescue (PSAR)

What Is PSAR & What Do We Do?

The Catskills Preventive Search and Rescue Committee focuses on education, preparation, and mobile on-trail prevention to reduce hiking incidents. The committee operates within the Catskill 3500 Club.

Mobile Engagement Team

Conducts on-trail preventive outreach through Mobile Engagement Team (MET) / trail patrol activities

Classes & Seminars

Offers educational classes and seminars related to hiking preparation, leave no trace and decision-making

Trail Safety

Supports trail safety and preventive efforts in coordination with the club

Learn more about these below.

MET Team (Mobile Engagement Team / Trail Patrol)

The PSAR MET Team conducts on-trail patrols on popular routes to speak with hikers, observe conditions, and share preparation guidance. MET activities focus on preparation, awareness, and early intervention rather than emergency response.

General Preparation & Trail Safety

Effective hiking preparation includes:

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  1. Planning routes, timing, and turnaround points

  2. Accounting for weather and changing conditions

  3. Using complete gear systems rather than individual items

  4. Making conservative decisions, especially on descents

Volunteers Wanted

The Catskills Preventive Search and Rescue Committee works with volunteers in a range of roles, including:

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  • Administrative support and coordination

  • Education volunteers and instructors for classes and seminars

  • Mobile Engagement Team (MET) / trail patrol volunteers

  • Event coordination and logistics support

  • Data, tracking, and reporting support, including assistance with activity summaries and external reporting


Volunteer roles vary by availability, interest, and skill set. Contact PSAR@catskill3500club.org for more information or to let us know you're interested.
 

Upcoming Classes & Seminars

  • Wilderness First Aid (WFA) & CPR Course in the Catskills
    Wilderness First Aid (WFA) & CPR Course in the Catskills
    Sat, May 30
    Catskill Forest Association, Inc.
    May 30, 2026, 9:00 AM – May 31, 2026, 5:00 PM
    Catskill Forest Association, Inc., 42710 NY-28, Arkville, NY 12406, USA
    Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is a two-day, 16-hour training course designed for people who spend time in the outdoors and want to be better prepared to respond to injuries or medical situations when professional help may be delayed.

The Catskills Preventive Search and Rescue Committee is a committee within the Catskill 3500 Club. The committee focuses on prevention, education, and MET / trail patrol activities and does not provide emergency response services.

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CATSKILL 3500 CLUB™ | P.O. Box 294, West Hurley, NY 12491
CATSKILL 3500 CLUB™ is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization in the state of New York.

THE trademarks CATSKILL 3500 CLUB™ and the CATSKILL 3500 CLUB™ logos displayed on this website are registered trademarks of

the CATSKILL 3500 CLUB™ and may not be reproduced without express written permission.

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