Search & Rescue Training Courses

 The Introduction to Search and Rescue (ISAR)/SARTECH III course is designed to provide knowledge concerning the general responsibilities, skills, abilities, and the equipment needed by persons who would be participating in a search or rescue mission. The course is based around rural and wilderness environments but the material is recommended as a base of knowledge for all SAR environments.

ISAR/SARTECH III is the first course in a stepping stone approach to higher level NASAR courses of training for emergency personnel. It provides a common starting point in training for the new person to SAR and in many cases, an excellent refresher course for the more experience SAR worker. This common starting point provides continuity during SAR operations and future training of all team members. 

This is a 16 hour training program. 

 The NASAR Fundamentals of Search and Rescue (FSAR) course is meticulously designed to equip participants with essential knowledge and practical skills required for effective participation in search and rescue (SAR) operations. This course is foundational for those seeking to enter the field of SAR, providing a comprehensive overview of the strategies, techniques, and challenges involved in search and rescue missions. It lays the groundwork for understanding the complexities of SAR operations, including coordination with various agencies, navigation in diverse terrains, first aid in wilderness settings, and the legal and ethical dimensions of search and rescue activities. 

 Through this course, participants will gain a deep understanding of the roles and responsibilities in SAR operations, learn to efficiently utilize navigation tools and techniques, and develop skills in search planning, survival, and basic rescue operations. The training is crucial for preparing individuals to respond effectively to emergencies in a variety of settings, ranging from urban to wilderness environments. Whether for professional development or personal preparedness, the Fundamentals of Search and Rescue course offers invaluable insights and skills for anyone interested in or currently involved in search and rescue activities. 

This is a 48-56 hour training program.

 The SAR Field Team Leader Course is designed to educate the experienced field searcher in preparation for becoming a Field Team Leader. This course expands on the knowledge and skills taught in the intermediate level SAR courses and trains the individuals to effectively manage a team in the field. The course provides education expanded management concepts, crew tactics, crew and SAR dog tactics, crew safety skills, and individual  team stress management. The course focuses on the added responsibility of a Field Team Leader and how this relates to their crewmembers, search managers, and how their management influences the outcome of the search tasking. The main course objectives revolve the flow around receiving a mission task, planning the execution of that task, briefing the task plan, execution of the task, and return of deliverable information upon completion of the task.

Who Should Attend:
Experienced search and rescue technicians that are looking to upgrade to the level of Field Team Leader.

This is a 48 hour training program.

 Advanced Search and Rescue (ADSAR) is a NASAR course designed to educate the experienced field searcher in preparation for working as a crew leader on a search. This course expands on the knowledge and skills taught in the intermediate level FUNSAR course. Beginning with expanded management concepts, crew tactics, crew and SAR dog tactics, crew safety skills and continuing through stress management, the course focuses on the added responsibility of a crew leader and how this relates to the crewmembers, search managers, and the outcome of the search. The ADSAR text and course materials were developed by a committee of experienced SAR personnel from throughout the nation. The ADSAR course contains valuable information that can be used in many aspects of search response and contains information not found in other search courses. 

This is a 36 hour training program. 

SAR Initial Actions is a NASAR course that is designed to provide the first-on-scene personnel with a proven systematic plan that increases the likelihood of quickly and safely locating a person who is lost or missing.  Participants will leave with confidence in knowing what actions to take during the unfolding minutes to one hour after being the first to arrive on a missing person call. Employing the principles of SARIA increases the likelihood of the quick and safe recovery of lost persons.  The course was designed primarily for front line law enforcement officers but is also valuable for Fire, EMS, and Search and Rescue personnel.  Course includes multiple virtual tabletop exercises. 

Course utilizes SARTopo to complete the tabletop exercises and scenarios. It is highly encouraged to have completed a SARTopo orientation and training program prior to attending this course.  

The Managing the Lost Person Incident (MLPI) is NASAR's comprehensive training course which is designed to teach the essential knowledge and skills necessary to perform as the initial response SAR Management Team on a lost person incident with the primary focus on the Search element of SAR. The course prepares the student for the management responsibilities and leadership skills required during SAR missions. The course explains the tasks and procedures needed to effectively manage SAR operations from the completion of the initial response phase through the expansion phases of the search to the final demobilization of all resources. This is the first true management course of the NASAR series of SAR courses.

The MLPI course explains and describes in detail the overall objectives, strategies, and tactics needed for a successful outcome of SAR missions. The course also focuses on the development of SAR IAPs and the process of collecting and building all of the information contained in the IAP.

This is not an introductory course. Students should be highly knowledge able in search and rescue operations. It is highly suggested to have completed ICS 300 and a SARTopo orientation and training program prior to attending this course.

This SARTopo Course for SAR Managers course is a 6-hour course for those who wish to learn about the effective use of SARTopo, a powerful mapping tool that is becoming a crucial tool used by SAR management teams for planning, coordinating, and executing search and rescue operations. The course offers a comprehensive exploration of SARTopo's functionalities, enabling SAR Managers to effectively utilize this technology for enhanced operational efficiency and decision-making in SAR missions.

Key Topics: 

Introduction to SARTopo: Understanding the basics of SARTopo, including its interface, tools, and primary functionalities.

Map Creation and Customization: Detailed instruction on creating and customizing maps specific to SAR needs, including terrain analysis and overlay options.

Real-Time Tracking and Collaboration: Techniques for real-time tracking of teams and resources, and collaborative map sharing for enhanced coordination.

Data Integration and Management: Managing data inputs from various sources, including GPS, local databases, and other mapping tools.

Scenario-Based Map Planning: Practical exercises in developing maps for hypothetical SAR scenarios, highlighting key features like route planning, area assignments, and probability mapping.

Advanced Features and Tools: Exploration of advanced SARTopo features such as offline mapping, 3D terrain visualization, and integration with mobile applications.

The SARTopo for SAR Teams course is a 4-hour course that offers SAR team personnel a comprehensive orientation to the SARTopo Mobile Application, which is quickly becoming an essential tool for effective navigation and coordination in search and rescue operations. The training focuses on the practical use and functionalities of the SARTopo app, enabling team members to efficiently utilize this technology in the field for real-time mapping, navigation, and team collaboration.

Key Topics:

Introduction to SARTopo Mobile App: Overview of the app, its interface, and core features tailored for SAR operations.

Map Viewing and Interaction: Instruction on map navigation, layer selection, and understanding map symbols and terrain features.

GPS and Location Tracking: Utilizing the GPS functionality for tracking and recording movements during SAR missions.

Creating and Sharing Markers: How to create waypoints, markers, and annotations, and share them with team members in real-time.

Offline Map Use: Techniques for downloading and using maps offline, crucial for areas with limited or no internet connectivity.

Data Synchronization: Managing data sync between the mobile app and the main SARTopo platform for seamless integration of information.

The NASAR Tracking Fundamentals (TRACKING) course is a Step-By-Step course. Establishing a field searcher’s clue and track awareness with the student being certified as a SARTECH TRACK AWARE resource upon completion. The course provides information regarding the general responsibilities, skills, abilities, and the equipment needed by persons who wish to be assigned as a Tracker to field operations during a SAR mission.

The TRACKING course content includes focus on a cycle of five skills sets [detection, interpretation, recording, tactics, and trailing], which are needed by the SAR Tracker to support a search and rescue incident. Students are expected to have the proper equipment to perform on a tracking assignment in the environment of the course location; including during daylight and nighttime operations.

The material is germane to any SAR environment.

This NASAR course is designed to prepare the student to challenge the NASAR SARTECH TRACKER Examination. 

 At Sergeant Rescue, we're proud to offer National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) SARTECH Testing at all levels; SARTECH III, II, and I. Each exam has a correlating set of standards that can be found on NASAR's website at www.nasar.org. 

Our commitment is to provide thorough and professional testing services that meet the rigorous standards set by NASAR. 

Whether you're beginning your journey in search and rescue or are an experienced professional looking to validate your skills, we have the testing capabilities to support your goals. The NASAR SARTECH Testing programs are designed to assess and certify competencies in various search and rescue scenarios, ensuring that participants meet the high standards required for effective SAR operations. 

Trust Sergeant Rescue to be your partner in achieving NASAR certification and advancing your SAR capabilities! 

 Sergeant Rescue's SAR Team Leader Seminars are expertly designed programs focused on enhancing the leadership and operational skills of individuals who lead Search and Rescue (SAR) missions. These seminars are tailored for current and aspiring SAR team leaders, emphasizing the development of effective management, strategic planning, and advanced SAR techniques necessary for successful mission execution. 

Key Features:

Leadership Development: Focused training on leadership styles, team motivation, and decision-making in high-pressure SAR operations.

Advanced SAR Techniques: Instruction in cutting-edge search and rescue techniques, including wilderness navigation, tracking, and technical rescue integration.

Risk Management: Strategies for risk assessment, safety protocols, and managing complex SAR missions in diverse environments.

Expert Instructors: Sessions led by experienced SAR professionals and leaders with extensive field experience.

Ask about the optional addon workshop today!