Greetings:

We are pleased that you may have an interest in joining TMRU (Tacoma Mountain Rescue Unit). It is our hope that information on what is expected of you as a member, and what you may expect of this unit, will help you decide whether you wish to apply.

TMRU is a volunteer organization dedicated to serving the community by providing trained personnel to assist government agencies in searches, rescue activities, and recovery activities. The particular expertise of TMRU leads to the uses of our members primarily, but not exclusively, in mountainous terrain.

As a member, you are expected to participate in unit training classes which are conducted monthly. Attendance at a minimum of three training sessions per year is required to maintain your status as an active member of TMRU. Please understand that TMRU is not a climbing school. You are expected to have mastered basic climbing skills before joining.

Missions typically start at the most inopportune times, in the middle of the night, in the middle of the week, during the worst weather, etc. Although all of us have other obligations, it is expected that we (you) will attempt to participate in missions when you are called and your schedule permits. This occasionally means giving up a good nights sleep. You are expected to stay in physical condition adequate for you to participate in rescue activities on all types of terrain. During missions you will be expected to conduct yourself in a professional manner and in accordance with the TMRU operating policies. You may expect, in return, a high level of training in a broad variety of skills, which will prepare you to participate effectively in all types of mission activities performed by TMRU. As you accumulate training and experience, you may expect to be given more responsibility during trainings and missions, and to be promoted according to membership policies.

If you have suggestions, complaints, or criticisms, you may expect an opportunity to present them to the TMRU board, and receive a reasonable response to them. During all TMRU activities, your safety and well-being and that of your fellow members will be of paramount importance.

Victims have bad days; rescuers never should.

To request a membership application call (253) 531- 2120 for the membership chair's phone number. He will contact you and send an application. You are welcome mail it back, or to deliver it in person. Board meetings are held the last Wednesday of every month, and Unit training meetings held the second Wednesday of every month. Call the membership chairman for directions. Annual TMRU membership fee is $15.00. You will be notified of your status promptly after the board has reviewed your application.