On October 22, 2016 Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) was inducted as a new member into the prestigious International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR).

TCSAR team members Tim Ciocarlan and Cody Lockhart attended the Annual Assembly of Delegates in Bulgaria in October to participate in the annual 3 day conference and to represent the TCSAR team in attempt to become an official ICAR member during the assembly. “Being able to fund members of our team to participate in ICAR is an honor for the TCSAR Foundation and our team. We feel humbled by the support of our community to make crucial trainings such as these a priority” said Stephanie Thomas, TCSAR Foundation Executive Director.

TCSAR was awarded a Type A membership, which recognizes the team as a rescue organization of national or regional importance who cover all the aspects of mountain rescue. Type A member organizations have 2 delegate votes at the ICAR Assembly of Delegates.

TCSAR is one of only 4 SAR organizations in the United States to be accepted as a member of ICAR. Other members include Wasatch Backcountry Rescue, Silverton Avalanche School and the Mountain Rescue Association (of which TCSAR is also a member).

“Teton County Search and Rescue volunteers have worked hard to elevate their skills to a level where they can be internationally recognized. Having a voice and connection on an international level is imperative to keep our team relevant to new techniques, equipment and standards in the rescue world. We are honored by the recognition and look forward to the challenge to contribute on an international level,” said Tim Ciocarlan, TCSAR Volunteer and Chief Advisor.

About ICAR: Founded in 1948, ICAR provides a platform for mountain rescue and related organizations to disseminate knowledge with the prime goal of improving mountain rescue services and their safety. ICAR is an independent, worldwide organization that currently has 96 member organizations in 36 countries worldwide.