Fundamentals of Search and Rescue Training Weekend 1

The Fundamentals of Search and Rescue (FUNSAR) course is the second, intermediate level of NASAR courses. It provides knowledge concerning the general responsibilities, skills, abilities, and the equipment needed by persons who are assigned to field operations during a SAR mission.

The FUNSAR course also provides the student with practical exercises in addition to a practice search mission where the students are required to have the proper equipment and stay out in the field during daylight and nighttime operations. The course content includes topics in three major areas: survival, support, search, and rescue. This course is based around the rural and wilderness environments but the material is recommended as a basis for all SAR environments.

FUNSAR provides a common point in training for the new person to SAR and allows them to accumulate the required clothing and equipment needed for SAR operations in their community. The course also provides practical experience during simulated SAR operations and in many cases is an excellent refresher course for the more experienced SAR worker. This common starting point provides continuity during SAR operations and future training of all team members.

FUNSAR is the NASAR course designed to prepare the student to challenge the SARTECH II certification exam, according to knowledge objectives defined in the NASAR certification criteria for SARTECH II.

The recommended number of hours for the course is (47) forty-seven. The course is usually conducted over two weekends starting on Friday night but can be taught (5) five days straight.
Quote: “The FUNSAR course I took not only gave me the basic skills and understanding of doing a proper, safe search, but also gave me the confidence to take care of myself and my team members during search operations. The FUNSAR course should be a minimum requirement for anyone wanting to be part of a SAR Team.” David Moskowitz, Director Arkansas Department of Health – Division of EMS & Trauma Systems.

Who Should Attend
Those interested in becoming involved or have just become involved with search and rescue operations.

SAR personnel who would like to maintain or refresh their knowledge of search and rescue.

Emergency response personnel who belong to organizations who provide resources and assistance during search and rescue missions.

Managers of emergency response organizations who want to understand the state of the art skills and knowledge needed by the SAR workers.

Community members and groups (scouts, hunters, hikers, etc.) that have an interest in safety and preventative SAR operations.

Topics
Review of SAR Management System

Fitness, Basic Survival, and Survival Body Management

Clothing and Personal Protection Systems for SAR

Emergency Survival Skills

Improvising Environmental Hazards and Survival First Aid SAR Ready Pack

Nomenclature of Personal Outdoor Equipment

SAR Travel Skills

Land Navigation and Orienteering

SAR Resources

Capabilities

Search Philosophy

Estimating POD

Search Tactics and Searcher Skills

Handling Evidence

Review of Clue Consciousness

SAR Crew Responsibilities

Tracking Skills

Rope and Rescue Equipment

Legal Aspects for Searchers

After Completion
Upon completion of the FUNSAR course, the student should be able to:

Define the components of SAR operations

List the major responsibilities for search and rescue

Describe the components of ICS and their functions

List and prioritize the necessities of life

Explain the survival situation plan (STOP) Stay, Think, Observe, Plan

List the similarities or differences and advantages or disadvantages of the different natural and synthetic materials used for SAR clothing

Describe and demonstrate the function of each of the layers of clothing

Differentiate between a 24-hour ready pack and urban ready pack

Demonstrate the use of a 24-hour ready pack

Describe advantages and disadvantages of the equipment used for SAR

Demonstrate the use of personal SAR equipment

Demonstrate traveling skills used for his/her environment

Define, describe, and identify the signs and symptoms, and describe the treatment of common medical emergencies during SAR operations

List and differentiate between at least three types of maps used in SAR

Identify, define, and demonstrate the use of the topographical maps

Define the plotting methods or grid systems and demonstrate the ability to use them to determine the coordinates for a given point

Describe the parts of the compass and demonstrate the ability to use it

Describe the navigational functions used in map and compass

Demonstrate the ability to navigate during daylight and nighttime hours

Differentiate between the two basic categories of search tactics (Passive and Active)

Describe the primary types of active search tactics

Describe the techniques and methods used for search tactics

List and demonstrate at least five of the searching or tactical skills needed by field searchers

Explain why SAR personnel search for clues not subjects

List the information needed by the searcher when alerted

Define and demonstrate the functions of the search crew positions

Define track or print, sign, and step-by-step tracking as well as demonstrate the step-by-step tracking procedures

List at least two materials used in rope and at least two types of design used in rope; as well as list at least five of the rules of rope etiquette

List the different advantages and disadvantages of materials used in carabiners

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of at least two types of stretchers or litters

List at least five common radio procedures and guidelines

Describe the basic legal philosophy concerning searcher knowledge, training, physical abilities, equipment, discipline, and control