Boulder Emergency Squad (BES) is a 501(c)(3) all-volunteer technical search and rescue team dedicated to preserving life and property across Boulder County. Founded in 1963, BES is an integral partner in the county’s collaborative emergency response network and fills critical gaps by providing specialized services not covered by traditional fire or law enforcement agencies. Our highly-trained volunteers respond to 100–150 calls each year, including wildland fires, water and ice rescues, technical rope incidents, vehicle extrications, missing person searches, disaster response, and more. BES collaborates with over 20 local emergency departments, including fire departments, public safety, law enforcement, medical units, and other search and rescue groups.
Sheriff-designated as Boulder County’s primary water rescue, drone, and wide-area search team, BES responds swiftly to emergencies, saving lives and strengthening community resilience.