SARTECH 1 - Remote & Backcountry Search and Rescue

Examination & Certification Information: SARTECH I / Crew Leader

The NASAR SARTECH I certification is an advanced credential that validates an individual's competency to lead a search and rescue crew in the field. The examination process is significantly more demanding than lower levels, focusing heavily on leadership, advanced skills, and decision-making under pressure. The evaluation consists of meeting stringent prerequisites before challenging both a comprehensive written exam and a demanding practical skills assessment.

I. Prerequisites

Before a candidate is eligible to challenge the SARTECH I examination, they must provide documentation for the following, which typically includes:

• SARTECH II Certification: A current, valid NASAR SARTECH II certification is the foundational requirement.

• Advanced Medical Certification: A current certificate in Advanced First Aid and CPR is the minimum. However, a higher level of medical training, such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), is strongly recommended for a leadership role.

• Incident Command System: Completion of ICS-100 and ICS-200 is required.

• Field Experience: While not a strict rule, it is highly recommended that candidates have a significant amount of logged field time (e.g., over 100 hours) on actual SAR missions and/or advanced training exercises before attempting this leadership-level certification.

II. SARTECH I Examination

The evaluation is a two-part process. Candidates must pass the written exam before they can proceed to the practical evaluation, and they must pass all components to be awarded the certification.

A. Written Examination

This exam assesses the candidate's deep knowledge of SAR leadership and operational theory.

• Format: A comprehensive, closed-book, multiple-choice examination (typically 120 questions).

• Passing Score: A minimum score of 70% is required.

• Key Content Areas:

  • Small Unit Leadership: Leadership principles, team management, and conflict resolution.

  • ICS for Crew Leaders: Advanced application of ICS, understanding the Incident Action Plan (IAP), and use of forms like the ICS 204 (Assignment List) and ICS 214 (Unit Log).

  • Crew Safety & Risk Management: Hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety protocols.

  • Advanced Search Tactics: In-depth knowledge of search strategies, Probability of Detection (POD), and managing searcher fatigue.

  • Advanced Land Navigation: Theory behind complex navigation and route planning.

  • SAR K9 Integration: Procedures for effectively working with and supporting a SAR K9 team.

  • Briefing & Debriefing: The formal processes for receiving assignments and reporting back to command.

  • Critical Incident Stress Management: Recognizing and managing stress in oneself and the crew.

B. Practical Skills Examination

This is a series of hands-on, pass/fail stations where candidates must demonstrate leadership and advanced skills to a certified NASAR Evaluator.

• Station 1: Land Navigation (Night): This is a hallmark of the SARTECH I exam. Candidates must successfully navigate a complex, multi-leg, off-trail course at night using only a map and compass.

• Station 2: Improvised Patient Transport: The candidate must lead a team to construct an improvised litter (e.g., from poles and webbing) and safely package and move a simulated patient.

• Station 3: Briefing / Debriefing: The candidate will be given a mission assignment (like an ICS 204 form) and must deliver a complete and effective pre-mission briefing to a crew. They may also be required to outline the key components of a post-mission debriefing.