Mounted search and rescue

["Jorene Downs" <Jorene@CEOates.com>]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: <pennbo@bbv.net>
> [...] Some of the terrain we cover is tricky in full
> daylight and downright foolhardy at night. So my only addition to the
> comments previously would be to make sure you either know the call-out
> area well or speak with someone who does.

Good point, Chris. Most of our Wilderness SAR - where you're more likely to
encounter areas unsafe for horses - is in National Park/Forest regions. We
make a point of asking the local rangers about trails and such in the search
area, since they will know the *current* status for trails, hazards, water
for horses, etc. This inquiry should be performed by SAR Management prior to
choosing primary routes and team assignments, while also referring to a good
detailed topo map of the region. If anyone isn't comfortable with the
locations where IC is sending MSAR, better communication is necessary
regarding what is suitable for MSAR day/night team assignments.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Jorene Downs
Tulare Co, CA
SAR, MSAR, Swiftwater Rescue, US&R,
Hasty Team, ICP
www.CEOates.com/sar