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Subject: Mounted search and rescue

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Chronological Thread  
  • From: "Jorene Downs" <Jorene@CEOates.com>
  • To: "MSAR-L" <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: [MSAR] Technology in SAR
  • Date: Mon Dec 23 07:02:00 2002

Barcode scanning for ID cards and logistics inventory has been mentioned as a viable management tool for SAR. That motivated me to open up discussion for other advantageous use of technology in SAR. I'll share a few thoughts and hope others will contribute.
 
- 2-way messaging / communication devices for call-outs. Instead of group pages, Dispatch could send out group email with all the basic data to get people rolling. Push a button to reply with an ETA, or mini-keyboard an email. Some units are also combined with cell phone-type service using a headset. Much depends on local service coverage, but some examples of devices are on
 
- GPS software in the ICP used to lay out search areas, then the area / route (and related map) is loaded into each team leader's GPS to carry into the field. (GPS needs to be capable of linking with a computer.)
 
- 2-way radios that you can buy inexpensively (Wal-Mart, etc.) allow for chatter between team members and nearby teams without tying up the official radio channel. FRS is the common frequency - up to 2 mile coverage. Some units have an optional GMRS frequency that requires an FCC license, but communicates up to 5 mile coverage and with strategically located equipment can relay further. (Treat GMRS like ham radio with an official call sign. FCC 5 year license is now $75. GMRS licensing How To info on http://www.pe.net/~atd/fcc605.htm )
 
- The Garmin Rino - so team personnel can carry GPS and have team-specific radio chatter carrying a single unit. Get the 120 model and you can load software / download saved routes into a computer. (Topo maps. Street guide maps - you can search for an address then see it on the map.) Uses the common FRS radio channels, and has GMRS optional.  http://www.garmin.com/products/rino/ 
 
- Wireless LAN to network the outside check-in computer with the Ops resources computer at the ICP.
 
- Set up portable satellite Internet/Intranet access at the ICP to use email, web sites, etc., for data send/receive and online research. (Share photos / fliers of the missing person, follow-up reports, online search of shoe print types, monitor online weather radar, text messages to pagers, etc.) Could mount the dish (after arrival) on a permanent mobile ICP roof bracket and just adjust the dish direction on the scene. (Training required.) Connect the computer for 24/7 high speed access. Household current required - it could be rigged for battery banks and inverter if you recharge those batteries - perhaps solar, with generator backup? Note that this system also offers voice over the Internet capabilities as an option to satellite phone service. And with some set-ups, you could also get satellite TV. Also - this internet satellite dish would be an invaluable tool for Disaster management and communications since it doesn't rely on landlines. But it does require a stationary base to maintain the satellite connection. And yes, it can run on a LAN network at the ICP. (example: StarBand internet satellite connection on the DISH satellite TV dish.) www.starband.com
 
- SAR management software. Has anyone tried SearchManager? http://sartechnology.ca/  Other SAR management software suggestions?
 
~ ~ ~
Jorene Downs
Tulare County, CA
SAR, MSAR, Swiftwater Rescue, USAR



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