Mounted search and rescue

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

For those not already aware, a new specialty is emerging in the SAR 
community: Disaster SAR. At the foundation of this new type of SAR is CERT 
(or equivalent) cross-training. CERT is the basic level of USAR. SAR is 
commonly capable of arriving self-sufficient for 24-72 hours, and consider 
the value of that during a local disaster. SAR is also well qualified to 
perform search and rescue ... but commonly lacks the training for the more 
urban environment.

Why should MSAR be interested in cross-training for basic disaster response? 
This cross-training makes SAR far more versatile even for normal missing 
person SAR because Wilderness SAR learns how to perform in the more 
populated areas, too. And yes, MSAR is a viable resource during a disaster 
... with even more potential if you're cross-trained.

Learn about Disaster SAR-related discussion on:
www.tk-cert.org/natlsar/

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Jorene Downs
Tulare Co SAR - Hasty Team ICP Team
www.ceoates.com/sar
Tulare-Kings CERT
www.tk-cert.org

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Tm' Fi" <tfinkle@erols.com>
> Another program that both Jorene's team and my team have in common is
> introducing our members to the CERT Program.  Cross training in programs
> such as CERT and the expanding capabilities of an MSAR team is an
> excellent way to gain respect as a professional organization.
>
> I suggest that MSAR folks to visit the link Jorene provided
> <www.tk-cert.org>.  More CERT information can be found at
> <http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/CERT/> and if there is not CERT
> coordinator/program in your region, an online web based study program
> for introductory CERT (IS-317) can be taken by going to
> <http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is317.asp>
>
> Tomi`
> TROT-SAR
> Maryland