Emergency Task Force
First into the hardest incidents, and the last to leave.
A specialist operational division responsible for high-risk incidents, specialist response and rescue support.
Our mission
The Emergency Task Force is the department's specialist response division. It supports high-risk incidents, difficult rescues and operations that go beyond routine patrol work. Members work closely with Rangers and Coast Guard crews to keep everyone safe when a situation escalates.
Responsibilities
What the Emergency Task Force (ETF) is responsible for.
High-risk incident response
Specialist operations
Rescue support
Typical duties
What members of this division commonly do.
Responding to high-risk and escalating incidents
Supporting Rangers and Coast Guard crews on difficult calls
Specialist rescue and recovery support
Planning and briefing operations before they begin
Securing scenes until the incident is resolved
Running division training scenarios
Debriefing operations and recording lessons learned
Structure
The division is led by a Division Chief, who is responsible for its direction and standards.
Commanders run day-to-day operations and supervise members on deployments. Members work in teams assigned for each operation.
Division leadership
How to join
The usual path into the Emergency Task Force.
- Complete your 14-day probation and be an active, good-standing member.
- Earn the ETF certification through the department's certification process.
- Submit an application in the ETF channel on the EOTS Discord.
- Attend an interview with ETF leadership.
- Complete division onboarding with an Operator II or higher and receive your seat.
Training and expectations
New members are expected to attend division training, follow the chain of command on every deployment and keep their certification current.
Professional conduct, clear radio discipline and teamwork matter as much as individual skill.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a certification to join?
Yes. You need the ETF certification before your application is considered.
Can I still work as a Ranger or Coast Guard member?
Yes. ETF members keep their service duties and respond to ETF calls when needed.
Where does the division show up in my title?
ETF seats appear with the title SOG on the roster and chain of command.
Is senior approval needed to join?
Entry is decided by division leadership after your interview. Check the application channel for current details.
Who do I ask if I have questions?
Ask in the ETF channel on Discord or contact a Commander in the division.
Related
Work both services
Apply once on the EOTS Discord, then serve in the parks and on the water.