On September 5th, Panhandle Search and Rescue held a raffle fundraiser at the Chipley Walmart, and it turned out to be an unforgettable day. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we were able to raise $1,002 in support of our mission. While on-site, we also had the unexpected chance to put our skills to use outside of fundraising. A woman tripped over the curb and sustained a cut to her head that required stitches. Our team responded immediately—providing first aid, keeping pressure on the wound, and shading her with an umbrella to protect her from the heat until EMS arrived. We ...

August 22, 2025 – In a unanimous and powerful show of support, Washington County Commissioners voted 5 to 0 today in, officially establishing Panhandle Search and Rescue (PSAR) as the county’s new volunteer nonprofit Search and Rescue Team. Among the proudest faces in the room was that of John Williamson, whose vision and tireless work turned a dream into reality.   A Vision Rooted in Service John Williamson’s journey toward founding PSAR began long before this historic vote. A retired volunteer firefighter with over 15 years of experience, Williamson carried an unwavering commitment to serve and protect his community. Inspired by his upbringing in ...

September is National Preparedness Month, but the reality is that being ready for emergencies should be part of everyday life. At Panhandle Search and Rescue, we’re committed to raising awareness about the importance of disaster preparation—not just this month, but year-round. Communities, especially those at greater risk from hurricanes, floods, wildfires, tornadoes, earthquakes, and even severe snow and ice storms, need to take every step possible to protect themselves and their loved ones.The right supplies and plans don’t just help you survive a disaster—they help you recover more quickly afterward. Trusted resources like FEMA.gov and Ready.gov offer step-by-step guides and ...

It’s a scary thought, but home fires are still a very real danger—even in today’s world. According to the latest report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2014 and 2018, just five general causes accounted for 86% of reported home fires, 95% of home fire deaths, and 83% of home fire injuries. Knowing these causes is the first step in keeping your family and home safe. 1. Cooking It might surprise you, but cooking is the number one cause of home fires and fire injuries, and the second-leading cause of home fire deaths. We spend so much time in the ...

Tent camping is like nature’s invitation to unplug, unwind, and—let’s be honest—wake up to a raccoon rifling through your snacks. While sleeping under the stars is magical, it also comes with risks. A surprise thunderstorm or a wandering bear can quickly turn a peaceful weekend into an episode of Survivor: Backyard Edition. To keep your adventure fun and safe, we’ve pulled tips straight from search and rescue pros. Think of it as your guide to camping like a pro—without ending up as a cautionary tale. 🧭 1. Share Your Plans (Even if You’re Going “Off the Grid”) Before you vanish into the wilderness ...

1. Check In Before You Go Before heading out—especially if you enjoy boating solo—make it a priority to let a friend or family member know your plans. For added safety, prepare a Float Plan and leave it with someone you trust. A Float Plan outlines important details such as your intended boating location, the date and time you’ll be on the water, who will be with you, contact information for everyone on board, and a list of the safety gear you have available. This way, if something unexpected happens, help can find you faster.Coast Guard Float Plan Available for Downloadhttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1wLUfemwvOWg2TwluRrAIoS1FdVrCy8kG/view?usp=sharing 2. Keep an ...

We’ve all heard those stories—someone heads out for a “quick hike,” the weather turns, the trail gets confusing, and suddenly they’re the subject of a search and rescue mission. The thing is, most of those situations could have been avoided with just a little more planning and the right gear.Whether you’re going for a half-day stroll or tackling a challenging trail, packing smart isn’t just about comfort—it’s about making sure you come home safe and with great memories (not a rescue bill).Here’s what I recommend every hiker carry to keep those “lost hiker” headlines far, far away from your name. ...

Panhandle Search and Rescue has officially launched—and what better way to kick things off than at one of the Panhandle's most beloved local events?This past weekend, we proudly set up our very first booth at the Opossum Festival in Wausau, Florida, and it was an unforgettable experience. Not only did we get the opportunity to connect with members of our community and share our mission, but we also held a raffle drawing that turned out to be a heartwarming highlight of the day.In an incredible show of support, one of our own county commissioners won the raffle—and in a gesture ...

 In the heart of Florida’s Panhandle, where the pines grow tall and the community ties run deep, one man has quietly laid the foundation for something extraordinary. His name is John Williamson, and his vision—Panhandle Search and Rescue—was born not out of ambition, but from a deep desire to give back. Born in Apalachicola, Florida, John grew up with a love for the outdoors, a strong sense of duty, and a heart for service. Like many raised in small towns, he eventually moved away to raise a family and build a life. After retirement, though, something kept tugging at him—a longing ...