Mounted search and rescue

[Roy Swander c/o MSAR Maintainer <msar@ibiblio.org>]

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>From Roy Swander <saferider@mail.com>:

I picked up a thread while searching for SAR-related ATV 
training information. I know this isn't an ATV-specific group, 
but see that there has been interest in ATV training for members 
of your patrols. Contact the ATV Safety Institute (ASI)
http://www.svia.org for basic rider education, along with the 
possibility of advanced education opportunities. Their rider 
certification course is required for all federal agency 
employees who operate ATVs, including the Forest Service and 
BLM. They will help you locate a local licensed instructor. 

I provided training at the Wyoming SAR conference last Spring 
and have been asked to do so again in 2004. Lat year's course 
involved a 4 hour riding techniques course; this year will offer 
the same for first year participants, plus additional field 
operations skills and specific material requested by registered 
participants.

I was approached by NASAR and was told no one has undertaken the 
development of a training curriculum, but that they would 
appreciate it if I would do it! I guess it is time to move 
forward with that project. I would be happy to share my 
knowledge with interested individuals and groups. I would also 
appreciate any SAR experiences or materials that anyone has on 
ATV use in SAR. There are numerous "special" uses, tools, and 
tips that are invaluable to everyone, but sometimes known only 
within a local unit.

I am a licensed instructor for the ATV Safety Institute, a 
retired Marine with extensive experience in cold weather and 
field ops, and disaster support. I've also taught snowmobile, 
ATV and dirt bike safety for Utah State Parks youth OHV training 
program, plus emergency vehicle operator training as a 
DOT-certified instructor. I participated in my first SAR 
operation at age 13 and hold those who give of their time and 
resources in the highest esteem. Aside from my job that feeds 
and houses my kids, I am the Executive Director of SafeRider 
Institute (http://www.saferider.org), a nonprofit organization I 
founded to provide OHV safety and stewardship education to youth 
in Wyoming.

Please respond to saferider@mail.com with motorized off-highway 
vehicle related SAR questions, tips, or anything other than spam!

Roy Swander