Mounted search and rescue

[Dion Petaros <petaros@gmail.com>]

HI Folks!

 

While I am not directly involved with providing MSAR response, I am involved at the State level with establishing State accepted credentials for ALL responders including non-paid, volunteers.  My involvement is as a consultant to State level EM's in 3 different states.  I can assure you that they are moving towards limiting response to those SAR operators (including MSAR) having National level credentials.  They will likely do this through regulatory means.  The Feds are working to take this a step further by enforcing this via DHS grant(s) withdrawal for non-compliance.

Now we can play ostrich and stick our heads in the sand and have this foisted upon us, or we can be pro-active.  If NASAR is the only agency providing a national level testing, get involved to make the testing criteria valid.  If you don't like NASAR then start your own NATIONAL level organization (quickly) and create your own.  Either way, the future is for National level or State level credentialing, just like all the other public safety responders.  We are indeed "on the radar" and it will become more wide spread quickly.

Of course, most current statutes and regulations allow for a local jurisdiction (city or county) to use responders WITHIN ITS CONFINES, without regard to "outside" requirements.  However, as soon as you step over your county line to respond, you'll become required to comply with the higher level credentials.

Personally, I have challenges with NASAR, NDDA, NPWDA, etc., and especially all the individual team (ground, canine, msar, man-tracking) "certifications".  As an "all hazard" IC (except structural fire), I find too many "certified" responders can't find their way out of the staging area, let alone be valuable as a SAR resource.  So let's stop arguing about whether we need credentialing.  The fact is we do, it's coming, and we can be a part of the process to incorporate our individual opinions, or go find another vocation for your time.

BTW - If you consider yourself a "professional" (unpaid is still professional), you should always be looking to enhance your (outside) education and certifications.  That will cost money.  If you think you can be a SAR professional and not have it cost substantial dollars, you too need to find another "hobby".

Ok...Rant off!!

Sincere regards to all,

Dion

--
Always With Honor