Become A Member
JOIN C.E.M.P. AND JOIN OUR FAMILY
Becoming A Member of C.E.M.P.
THE STEPS TO JOIN OUR TEAM
HOW IT WORKS
STEP 1:
Attend An Orientation
The Applicant Orientation takes place every six months and is a presentation of who we are, what we do and what to expect. No obligation is required. We simply ask for your attention for 90 minutes while we get to know you and you get to know C.E.M.P.
After the presentation you will have the opportunity to ask questions and evaluate whether our team is meant for you. To get invited to the next upcoming Orientation, Please fill out our Online Application and get the ball rolling!
STEP 2:
Apply To Be A Member
If you’re still interested in becoming a member, we ask that you attend the next regular General Membership meeting (held every month). At that time you’ll be interviewed (similar to a job interview) and then the team will decide whether to bring you onto the team as an applicant.
If we think you’re a match (and vice versa), you will immediately delve into action by learning and participating in all events and riding along on our callouts.
STEP 3:
Applicant Training Lasts for Six Months
The first six months are dedicated to learning about our team, search procedures, radio communications, area familiarization, emergency vehicles, proper protocol, the Incident Command System (ICS) and much more.
During your training period we require every new member to undergo an immediate background check and fingerprint LiveScan. We also require applicants to acquire first aid and CPR and other certifications that will be explained by your Applicant Coordinator.
STEP 4:
The Probationary Period Lasts Three Months
During the probationary period recruits participate as full-time members, however they must still undergo regular evaluations and reviews. At the end of the period, recruits are presented to the team for final approval to become full-time members. This process may seem tedious (especially for volunteers), but as we work directly under the umbrella of police departments and other area agencies, it’s important for us to provide them with a group of dedicated, sincere volunteers.
If successful, you will then will gain full membership during a formal badge ceremony.
STEP 5:
Receive Your Badge
After the Applicant and Probationary periods have passed, and all requirements have been successfully met, the recruits are presented with their badge and credentials. We always encourage members to invite family and friends to the ceremony to watch as we welcome you to our family.
Receiving your badge is a big deal to us. Our team takes great pride in our accomplishment, commitment and special desire to answer the call of the community as a volunteer.
Ready To Apply?
Get the ball rolling by filling out this online introduction. Please note: This is only an introduction request. By filling out this application, you are giving C.E.M.P. and the Los Angeles Police Department permission to run a background check on you and to conduct a preliminary investigation of your character. It also, by no means, guarantees you a spot on our team. It’s simply the first step in an exciting and rewarding place with C.E.M.P. Search & Rescue.
If you’d rather download the entire, official application and bring it to an Orientation, click HERE to print.