2006 Washington State Search and Rescue Conference, Enumclaw, May 19-21

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

These questions have been gleaned from past conferences, some intuition, and your questions to info@wasar2006.org. We will be updating this list as we receive questions and get appropriate answers researched and written.

Table of Contents

Registration/Attendance

How do I attend The Washington State SAR Conference?
Registration information is available in the registration section on our website.
When will registration materials be available?
Conference brochures were mailed in January, 2006, for the conference. If you are not in our database and would like to receive materials, you may download registration information from the registration section on our website.
Can one register without meals?
Yes, we forgot to mention in our mailing that conference registration is available without meals for $55 per person before March 31st, $75 before April 30th, and $95 after April 30th. If you received a registration form without this option, download an updated form from the registration area on our website.
Do you have to be a member of Search and Rescue to attend the conference?
No, anyone can register to attend the conference.
Can I bring my spouse, kids, next door neighbor, etc. to the conference?
The Washington State SAR Conference is open to anyone who has registered.
What if I bring a minor child or spouse with me but they won't be attending the training?
Unregistered children and spouses are welcome, there are many fun things in the host town to keep your loved ones occupied while you participate in the conference. However, we don't have the staff to offer a childcare service, and they'll have to arrange for meals separately, please see our "meals only" option in the registration area on our website.
What is included in the general registration fee?
The general registration fee includes the general conference activities, and general conference classes. Camping and meals for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are included if you selected those options at the time of registration and payed the additional fees. Pre-conference courses and pre-conference camping must be registered separately, please see the pre-conference section of our website for further information on pre-conference registration.
Do I have to pre register for any of the conference classes or events?
Perhaps. General conference classes are based on a first come first served basis. We do try to offer the classes several different times during the weekend so that you can pick and chose those times that work best for you. Pre-conference courses are registered separately with the courses course's instructor or contact person. Please see the pre-conference section of our website for more information.
I don't see my favorite class listed. When are you going to have the complete list?
We strongly encourage you to keep checking this website. All the current class information is posted on the website as soon as it becomes available, including the Pre-Conference classes. More classes will eventually be listed on the site. We don't have all the classes listed now because they haven't yet been finalized or confirmed, although we're getting more listed all the time.
I really need to know right away. Can you tell me what classes you think might be offered?
There's no "inside track", and we can't get you any more information other than what's on the website. We're currently waiting for specific information from several training sources, and that will be posted as soon as we get class confirmation. We have a list of general topics on the Classes page which should give an idea of the range of classes that are being planned.
I don't see any times or dates posted for the General Conference Classes. What's the deal here?
The General Conference classes will ultimately be placed on a Master Schedule for May 19th, 20th, and 21st. The majority will be held from 8:00am to 5:00pm, with some in the evening hours, depending on the nature of the class. Our goal is to arrange classes in several "training tracks", so those who wish to pursue multiple classes in the same discipline won't have to miss classes because they're all scheduled at the same time. Obviously, the Master Schedule will wait until we get the majority of our General Conference classes confirmed. We'll post the Master Schedule on the Classes page as soon as it's ready. Confirmed Pre-Conference classes have their fees, times, and dates posted accurately in the pre-conference section of our website.
Are these indoor or outdoor classes?
A good question... most general conference classes will be held in tents within the West and East Midway sections of the fairgrounds. Due to the nature of some classes all or a portion of them might be held entirely outside. Please be prepared for either.
Why is the registration price so expensive?
We've tried everything to keep the conference fee as low as possible for the SAR community, and earn no profit from holding this event. This is the largest, and yet one of the least expensive SAR-based conferences within the United States. We believe the value you'll take home from attending this conference will more than make up for the price of registration.
What color are the t-shirts available for $25 during registration?
The t-shirts are grey, cotton t-shirts with our conference logo on the back. The logo is viewable on the home page of our website.
What hours will the conference be open?
The general conference classes will run Friday, May 19th, Noon until 5:00 PM; Saturday, May 20th, 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM; and Sunday, May 21st, 8:00 AM until Noon. In addition there are pre-conference course running the weeks preceding and following the general conference, and ceremonies and entertainment on Saturday evening.
When do I receive my conference materials?
You will receive your conference materials upon checkin on Friday, May 19th.
I registered and now need to make changes to my registration, how can I do this?
Whether you're upgrading, downgrading, cancelling your registration, or substituting one registrant for another, send us an email at registration@wasar2006.org and clearly explain your needs.
What hours will on-site registration be open?
On-site registration, and check in, will be open at the fairgrounds from 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM, Firday, May 19th.

Meals

What about vegetarian or other dietary needs?
On your registration form is a place for you to indicate any special dietary needs. Please fill this out carefully.
Can I switch at the conference meal time and have a vegetarian meal because it looks better?
If you didn't order a special meal in advance on your registration, please don't ask for a special meal just because you like the looks of it more. The caterer prepares as many special meals as are requested. So if you ask for one without having ordered it, you're taking someone else's meal whom possibly needs it more.
What meals are included with the general conference?
Meals are provided for those who registered for them Friday lunch and dinner; Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner; and Sunday breakfast and lunch.
Can we bring our own food to the conferences?
Yes, conference registration is available without meals for $55 per person before March 31st, $75 before April 30th, and $95 after April 30th. If you received a registration form without this option, download an updated form from the registration area on our website.
If we're not planning on attending any classes, can we purchance only the meals without the rest of the registration?
Yes, there's a special "meals only" registration form for this purpose available in the registration section of our website.
What is being served for the meals, and who is providing the service?
Our caterer is "New York Catering". You can view a planned menu for each meal in the meals section of our website.

Camping/Lodging

Where will participants sleep?
Many attendees will be camping onsite, but others will stay in local hotels and bed and breakfasts. You're welcome to read about more options in the camping/lodging section of our website.
Can groups camp together?
Yes, but each tent or RV must have paid the $10/night campsite fee ($15/night if hook-up is used). Campsites are not pre-selected, so location and space is on a first come first served basis. Groups with tents or RVs sleeping more than 10 people should contact us before registering as additional fees could apply.
Do I have to reserve a camping spot?
Yes, camping cost $10/night without hook-up and $15/night with electricity at the time of registration. The location of your camp within the camping area is based on first come first served.
Is a full hookup for my RV available?
Yes, $26/night provides a concrete pad, electrical and water. Sorry, sewer is still not available. Call the fairgrounds at (206) 296-8888 to register separately for a reserved upgraded RV site.
What does it cost to camp at the fairgrounds?
Camping cost $10/night without hook-up and $15/night with electricity at the time of registration.
Is there a group rate for camping?
Unfortunately, no. The campsite fees are being passed directly onto the fairgrounds, so we don't have the ability to discount them for anyone. Even our staff is paying the same cost.
Are there showers available at the fairgrounds?
Yes, showers are available approximately 400 feet within the fairground proper, next to the dog barn.
Can I walk from my campsite to the classrooms?
Yes. The classes are all offered in a central location. The classes, vendors, helicopters and kitchen are all in one main area.
What is available on-site?
The campground has: tent and RV camping facilities, restrooms, showers, and public telephones. In addition, just outside our reserved area are baseball and football fields, picnic shelters and barbecues, a children's play area, tennis courts, and a golf course. And don't forget that we're within the town of Enumclaw so it's just a short drive to local restaurants and entertainment. Please be aware that some facilities might be unavailable and fees could apply.
Are the published camping fees per night, or for the entire conference?
The published prices for camping of $10 without hook-up and $15 with electricity are per night due at time of registration.
Do the published camping fees cover the May 15th to the 19th pre-conference?
Yes, the published prices for camping of $10/night without hook-up and $15/night with electricity are for the entire conference, including the nights of both the pre-conference and general conference, May 15th to the 22nd.
Can I camp at the fairgrounds during the pre-conference?
Yes, pre-conference camping is available at the same rate as the general conference camping of $15/night with electricity and $10/night without hook-up. To register for pre-conference camping please use our general conference registration form.
Can I drink alcohol in my campsite?
No, no alcoholic beverages are permitted within the Campgrounds as per King County Parks rules
Can we have a campfire?
No, no open flames (tiki torches, campfires or campfire pits) are allowed in the Campgrounds at any time.
Who can help me at the campground?
Our staff will be wearing conference hats with the word "Staff" on the front or brim. The color of the hats could vary depending on department. They will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Is there a hotel or bed and breakfast close by, if participants choose?
Yes. You are welcome to make reservations for yourself at any of the establishments listed in the camping/lodging section of our website.
Is there a preferred hotel for the event?
No, many attendees will be camping onsite, but others will stay in local hotels and bed and breakfasts. You're welcome to read about more options in the camping/lodging section of our website.

Transportation

Where is Enumclaw?
Enumclaw is about 45 miles southeast of Seattle at the intersection of State Routes 410, 164 and 167 in Washington State.
Where is the conference site?
On the East side of Enumclaw at the King County Fairgrounds, just to the South of State Route 410 (45224 284th Ave SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022). From the north, go south on Interstate 405 to the Maple Valley Highway (State Route 169), go south to Enumclaw, and follow the signs to "King County Fairgrounds". From Interstate 5, take Highway 18 east to Auburn, and State Route 164 east to Enumclaw, and follow the signs to "King County Fairgrounds". From the south, take State Route 167 and go east on State Route 410 to 284th Avenue SE.
What is the closest major airport to the conference site?
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is about 29 miles to the Northeast.
What will be the best means of transportation to Enumclaw?
Car Pooling! It saves energy, saves polluting emissions, and its fun! We encourage people to investigate this early and create a plan so it is not a last minute nightmare. Please plan ahead!
Is there local bus service to the conference site from Seattle?
Almost, King County's Metro bus service has three routes that service Enumclaw. You can get more information regarding these busses from Metro's website. The trip from Seattle to Enumclaw on route 152 takes about two hours. All three of these routes come to within a 1/2 mile from the conference site. Some changes have recently been proposed for these routes so please check with Metro directly before traveling to the conference.
If I stay at a nearby hotel, what transportation is available to and from the conference site?
Enumclaw does not have a regular taxi service and local busses are not well routed for getting around town, so local transportation would have to be by a personal or rented vehicle, by bike, or by walking.
Can I drive and park near the classrooms?
Yes, however if you're camping with us we recommend that you walk from your campsite. We will have a day parking area just off of the general conference grounds.
Can I ride my ATV in the campground?
No, unless you receive permission from the conference staff. We have authorized a few due to medical or age needs.
Can I ride my ATV or off-road motorcycle to and from classes at the conference site?
No, unless you receive permission from the conference staff.
Can I ride my mountain bike to and from classes, and in general around the conference site?
You're welcome to bring and use your mountain bike. Cyclists are advised to avoid excessive speeds, to walk their bike in places with heavy foot traffic, and to not ride in areas that are clearly posted "Pedestrians Only". Also please be aware that there will be mounted personel on horses patrolling the grounds. While our hourses are used to all manner of vehicles, please exercise caution and courtesy when riding near horses. It might be a good idea to stop and get off your bike when allowing a mounted horse to pass.

Vendors

How does one become a vendor at the conference?
Download a vendor oprtunity packet from the vendor's area on our website. Instructions on who to contact and costs are all detailed in the packet.

First Time Attendees

As a new or prospective member of SAR, what classes should I take?
To receive the most acurate answer to this question you should talk to your county or unit's training director. However, if you have not completed the eight classes required for all emergency workers under Washington Administrative Code 118.04, this would be an excellent starting point. We offer five of the eight required classes -- SAR Techniques, SAR Survival, Crime Scene Awareness, Map & Compass, and Basic & Intermediate Helicopter Safety. The three remaining courses -- First Aid, CPR, and Bloodborne Pathogen Awareness -- can easily be acquired at your local chapter of the American Red Cross or any of several other providers.
What should I bring?
Most of the classes do not require you to bring any special equipment. However, to get the most out of each class you will want to have pencils and paper to take notes and a small satchel or backpack to carry paperwork. Classes that do require specialized equipment to participate will note these needs in their class description on our website.
What is the attire?
Dress comfortably to be outside and in tents. The classroom tents will have chairs for sitting and a table and projection screen for the presenters. The average temperature in Enumclaw for the month of May is between 43 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit (6 to 18 degrees Celsius). The average rainfall in Enumclaw for the month of May is 3.42 inches (86.9 mm). This a county fair environment and you will be frequently walking on unpaved ground.

General Questions

Who is hosting this event?
King County Search and Rescue Association (KCSARA) and the King County Sheriff's Office are proud to be hosting the 2006 Washington State Search and Rescue Conference.
I'd like to call a small meeting at the conference or find other people interested in some topic, how do I do that?
A hospitality room or tent is often available for such meetings, and we would be happy to post your event on our website. Please contact us for more details.
Do you provide any childcare?
We are not able to provide childcare services during the event.
I found a problem with your website. How do I contact the webmaster?
For this and all other website related issues, please contact the webmaster by sending an email to webmaster@wasar2006.org.
I had some specific questions that I didn't find answered on the site. Where do I go to find those answers?
You will hopefully find them right here. However, if you don't please feel free to send us email at info@wasar2006.org.
Are SAR dogs welcome at the fairgrounds? Are they allowed in the classes?
Dogs are welcome at the conference, and assuming they're fine around people and other animals they're welcome in the classroom tents as well.

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