Mounted search and rescue

[Paul Fleming <pfleming@nwlink.com>]

Vince,

My unit conducts searches at night as a matter of routine. We make no 
distinction as to time of day. Here in western Washington we only 
have a couple of months of nice weather where one can remain out all 
night and not have to worry to much.

The two things that get us out after dark the most are light clad 
Alzheimers walk aways and lost day hikers. The real danger is 
hypothermia so it is necessary we find out subjects as soon as 
possible.

Things to consider in night operations.

*Night searches are seem more urgent. Use your normal procedures, 
conduct business as usual at a slightly slower pace.
*Night searches require more people.
*Your probability of detection is much lower.
*Your search sectors have to be much smaller.
*Clue detection is almost pure luck.
*Your operations people need to closely monitor the condition of your 
teams. Fatigue will not
only degrade their performance but also can also endanger them.
*When the search is over ensure your people are capable of driving 
home. This is a real                                 problem on a 
short search less then 24 hours. After the first night rest periods 
get factored in.


Hope this helps.

Regards
Paul Fleming
PMSAR



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Regards
Paul