[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The first priority of the search party is keeping everyone in the search party safe. Adequate training is required before anyone enters the field. Successful completion of the following classes are required to reach SAR Tech III and be deployable into the field.
Basic Land Navigation
Compass (One with adjustable declination, clinometer, sighting mirror, lanyard, 2 degree markings, and map scales is highly recommended.) Clothing, Food, and Water for a full day of hiking outside.
Advanced Land Navigation
This class takes the Land Navigation class to the next level… Night. Use all the same skills from Land Navigation but without the advantage of sunlight. This class is usually taught the same night of the Land Navigation class.
Compass, Headlamp, Gear required for hiking for several hours at night no matter what the weather.
Flashlight, Red marking light, Unit Radio, FRS/GMRS radio
Helicopter Use
None
None
Search Technique
Tracking
Operations of a Search
Management of a Search
This training is the next step from the Operations of a Search training. This is geared towards those wanting to lead teams in the field. It gives a more in-depth understanding of the search, roles within it, and all operations must take place. This helps the team leaders to understand their role better so that the searches will be performed in a way that is congruent with the goals of the entire search. This class is generally taught during the April training cycle.
Required Equipment
None
Recommended Equipment
None
Clue Awareness
Summer Hike Training
Litters
Proper packaging of a subject in a litter is a complicated and time consuming process that usually takes place in less than perfect conditions. In this class members are given the opportunity to preform this task in a controlled environment with plenty of time to accomplish the goal. Skills such as supporting and protecting the spine, ensuring the subjects comfort, secure packaging, and carrying the litter will be practiced by all participants. This training usually occurs in the April training cycle.
None
Climbing Harness, Large Locking Carabiner, Prusik, 20′ of 1″ tubular webbing
Weather and Geology
One of the most important rules in search and rescue is to make sure you don’t become a subject needing rescue yourself. The weather and geology of Colorado present many hazards that can threaten the safety of the searchers. Members will learn to identify and reduce these risks as much as possible.
None
None
Survival Skills
One of the most important rules in search and rescue is to make sure you don’t become a subject needing rescue yourself. Survival skills can prevent this from happening. Learn the basics of how to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. This is a high level course not intended to replace experience and in-depth survival training. This class is taught during the April training cycle.
Ropes and Knots
Safety is our highest priority in Search and Rescue. As such we frequently use ropes to help ensure against an accident. Ropes come in a variety of strengths and elasticity, all of which have a special purpose and must be understood by members using them. Similarly, the knots used have specific purposes that must be understood. This class will teach the basic ropes and knots used by TCSAR and the circumstances that are appropriate for all. This class is taught during the April training cycle.
None
Climbing Harness, Large Carabiner, prusik cord, 20′ of 1″ tubular webbing
Personal SAR Tech III Required Equipment
As a part of reaching the classification of SAR Tech III, a member must possess the following items and keep them prepared for use on any mission.
- Identification Card (provide by the unit)
- Orange Jacket/Vest/Shirt
- The ten essential systems
- Navigation (compass, map, GPSr)
- Sun Protection (hat, sunscreen, sun glasses)
- Insulation (i.e. extra clothing non cotton)
- Illumination
- First-Aid supplies
- Fire (2 methods)
- Repair Kit and Tools
- Nutrition (extra food)
- Hydration (extra water, or method for obtaining)
- Shelter (bivy sack or better)
- Note Pad
- Pencil
- Permanent Pen
- Watch
- Trail Tape – two colors
- Leather Gloves
- Goggles
- First Aid Kit for subject
- Sound signaling device (whistle)
- Signal Mirror
- Hands free light with spare batteries
- Space Blanket
- Various lengths of cord
- Trash bags – 2 large & 2 small
- Metal Cup
- Toilet Paper
- Means to heat water
- Water purification means
- Sleeping Bag
- Sleeping Pad
- Ground Cloth
- Scent bags (Ziploc bags)
- Duct tape
- 10 feet of 1″ tubular webbing
Other Equipment
Other items to have in your vehicle.
- Complete change of clothes
- Food
- Water
- Fuel for stove
- Long term shelter
- Blankets
- Extra Batteries
- Tools and repair equipment
- Other special equipment – crampons, ice axe, helmet, binoculars, shovel, etc.
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