You could be one that finds a terrified lost child, an injured backcountry trekker or a befuddled Alzheimer's patient wandering aimlessly. Maybe you'll be on the team that turns up critical evidence left behind at a crime scene.

The Pierce County Explorer Search and Rescue (ESAR) is looking for people who want to serve their community and have these kinds of experiences in the process. If you are age 14 or older, you're eligible to join.

ESAR's highly trained and certified members are mobilized to help local law enforcement carry out emergency search and rescue operations, comb crime scenes for evidence and pitch in during disasters. ESAR members also participate in community events such as parades and celebrations at parks.

ESAR training in wilderness survival, search and rescue techniques, communications, team building, resource management and leadership builds self confidence and maturity in a safe and secure environment. When certified, high school students receive community support credit and are authorized by law to be absent from school for five day on ESAR missions.

Sign up for the next training cycle by visiting www.pcesar.org or calling 253-752-3727(ESAR) and leave a message.