Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare search plan
- Search and rescue assets and potential assets are identified and recorded in databases
- Strategic and tactical objectives are identified in accordance with unit plans
- Strategies to achieve objectives are identified in accordance with organisational policies and procedures
- Risk management strategies are identified and incorporated/conducted in accordance with policy guidelines
- Information management strategies are identified and applied in accordance with organisational policies and procedures
- Search and Rescue procedures and policies are communicated to interested and affected persons, groups and organisations in accordance with the needs of those people
- Apply datum search planning principles
- A last known/most probable position is established from available data
- Initial search procedures are implemented in accordance with the National Search and Rescue manual
- Calculations are made to establish intended track/area/position in accordance with planned route
- Time frame for survival of the missing person(s) is calculated in accordance with policies and procedures protocols
- Physiological and environmental factors are determined as a basis for decision making
- A search area is calculated consistent with organisational policies and procedures
- Search pattern and track spacing is determined consistent with organisational policies and procedures
- A probability of detection factor is calculated consistent with organisational policies and procedures
- Acceptability of probability of detection factor is evaluated consistent with organisational policies and procedures
- Search area is recalculated or redefined, determined by availability of assets, changing weather conditions and search time available
- Apply rescue-planning principles
- The nature of problem/distress is determined in accordance with the available information
- Rescue resources are identified, mobilised and monitored consistent with organisational policies and procedures
- Operational risks are assessed and minimised in accordance with policies, procedures and best practices
- Survivor delivery points are identified in accordance with requirements and capability of the rescue platform
- Physiological, geographic and medical factors are considered for rescue and delivery as per the situational requirements
- Time factors are considered as per the situational requirements
- The chosen solution is evaluated and reported against the determined criteria in accordance with organisational policies and procedures
- Evaluate operational direction
- The search and rescue plan is implemented and amended as dictated by the requirements of the situation
- A process of continual evaluation is applied in accordance with policies and procedures protocol
- Contingency planning is conducted in accordance with organisational policies and procedures
- Regular briefings and debriefings are conducted in accordance with organisational policies and procedures