Beyond the Call: Volunteer Sacrifices and the Radios Powering Search & Rescue Missions in the Field

Search and rescue missions are often measured in minutes, where clear communication can mean the difference between life and death. In King County, Washington, search and rescue operations are powered primarily by volunteers—about 600 individuals alongside 16 sheriff’s deputies. Collectively, these volunteers respond to 150–200 missions per year, contribute more than 49,000 hours annually, and save taxpayers an estimated $8 million each year in donated labor and avoided costs. But when missions unfold in rugged terrain without cell service, how do search and rescue operators ensure coordination, safety, and success? Welcome to Radios in Action, brought to you by Icom. In the latest episode, Tim Price, Inside Sales Manager at Icom America, sits down with Nathan Lorance of King County Search & Rescue. Together, they explore the sacrifices of volunteers, the indispensable role of radios, and the realities behind search and rescue missions that the public rarely sees. The main topics of discussion… Volunteers as Professionals: While unpaid, search and rescue volunteers undergo extensive training and certification, functioning as highly skilled emergency responders. The Lifeline of Radios: In areas where cell phones fail, VHF radios remain the most reliable form of communication, enabling coordination between ground teams, command posts, and even aircraft during multi-agency operations. Sacrifices Beyond the Call: From Thanksgiving dinners replaced with fast-food cheeseburgers to families waiting anxiously at trailheads, the personal commitment of volunteers underscores the human cost—and value—of this lifesaving work. Nathan Lorance is a long-serving volunteer with King County Search & Rescue in Washington State. With more than 14 years of experience, he has worn multiple hats, ranging from field leader to organizational administrator. Lorance’s expertise spans operational logistics, communications infrastructure, and mission leadership. His dedication, informed in part by personal experience with Alzheimer’s in his family, underscores his deep empathy and commitment to serving the community.