Mounted search and rescue

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

One example of a faster speed on the trail for MSAR response is if the subject has a known location *and* MSAR is a suitable resource. MSAR may be deployed with a rider having a higher level of medical training to someone injured, or the MSAR team (with appropriate training only) is deployed to transport the subject in the saddle. The MSAR team cross-trained and equipped for low angle rescue is another example. Or the rider may be asked to expedite (mounted courier) carrying something from point A to B.

 

While faster than 5mph would understandably reduce the rider’s ability as a searcher, there is potential for riding at faster speeds *if* you have management who understands how to effectively use mounted resources and *if* local MSAR has appropriate knowledge, skills and abilities.

 

There are trail riders out there who may be experienced at the walk but may have little experience at faster speeds. MSAR does have potential to ask for a speed faster than the walk, so making sure riders (and the mounts) have experience moving in various terrain at various speeds is recommended … or may even be a requirement for being considered qualified for certain missions.

 

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Jorene Downs

SAR & CERT

Mounted SAR

www.ceoates.com/msar

 

 

Karen Nesbitt wrote:
 Just curious, is 5MPH the recommended speed or is a hasty team required to move on out faster if that is possible?  How is the speed determined by the leader?  […]