SARTECH 2 & FUNSAR - Wilderness Search and Rescue Technician.

Knowledge Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain SAR Operations: Articulate the comprehensive SAR process, including the roles of different agencies, the legal aspects of searching, and the critical importance of clue awareness and evidence preservation.

• Integrate Incident Command Principles: Describe the structure of the Incident Command System (ICS) and explain how to effectively function as a single resource within it, understanding the roles of the Operations Section, Planning Section, and their own place in the chain of command, particularly within the context of the Dutch GRIP structure.

• Apply Medical Theory: Understand the principles of patient assessment, environmental emergencies (hypo/hyperthermia), and trauma care in a remote or wilderness setting, consistent with a Wilderness First Aid (WFA) scope of practice.

• Master Navigation Theory: Explain advanced map reading concepts, the use of a compass including declination, and the integration of GPS technology for effective route planning and location finding.

• Analyze Search Strategies: Differentiate between various search tactics (e.g., hasty, area, route searches), understand the factors affecting the Probability of Detection (POD), and explain the basics of tracking theory.

• Evaluate Terrain Hazards: Identify objective hazards in the field and understand the principles of using ropes and simple anchor systems for personal safety and risk mitigation.

Practical Skill Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

• Operate as a SARTECH II Searcher: Consistently perform all skills required for the six SARTECH II practical stations:

• Land Navigation: Navigate a complex, multi-leg, off-trail course during both day and night conditions using only a map and compass.

• Tracking: Identify and correctly mark a human track in varied terrain.

• Route Search: Effectively scan and locate clues along a designated linear path.

• Area Search: Systematically search a defined area as part of a team.

• Equipment: Present a properly packed 24-hour ready pack and explain the function of each item.

• Provide Wilderness First Aid: Conduct a thorough patient assessment, treat common outdoor injuries and illnesses, and manage a patient until further help arrives.

• Communicate Effectively: Use proper radio etiquette, deliver clear situation reports (sit-reps), and participate effectively in operational briefings and debriefings.

• Maintain Self-Sufficiency: Demonstrate the ability to sustain oneself in the field for a 24-hour operational period using the equipment from their ready pack.

• Crisis Management: Show profiency to deploy in a SAR crisis management Structure

• Communication: Show profiencency in knowing how to use radio's and communication protocols.