To: "Mounted search and rescue" <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Subject: [MSAR] MSAR training standards / Question from a newby
Date: Wed, 3 Oct 2007 18:43:09 -0700
From: "KARI L SASSO" <ksasso@facstaff.wisc.edu>
Is there any training out there that is somewhat generic and could be used
by anyone? <
Any SAR / MSAR team in America should be NIMS (National Incident Management
System) compliant, trained in - and using - the Incident Command System,
etc. The NIMS requirements are indicated on http://www.nimsonline.com/
Online training is available through FEMA's Independent Study program on
http://training.fema.gov/IS/
Yes, there is common training specific to SAR / MSAR that *ALL* in MSAR
should have if they wish to be considered MSAR. In progress at the national
/ international level are standards being developed through ASTM
www.astm.org specific to MSAR. While those standards are still in progress,
they are getting close to completion.
In general ...
MSAR personnel should anticipate that all riders are expected to have the
same fundamental training as ground searchers, then transfer that knowledge
to the saddle and add KSA (knowledge, skills, abilities) specific to
searching while mounted. The minimum KSA expectation for the foundation of
ground SAR training is based on ASTM F2209. If your training is NASAR
SARTECH II, or equivalent, you already meet this national / international
standard. (Those who wish to be tested and certified as NASAR SARTECH II
should contact NASAR. www.nasar.org ) You can either acquire ASTM F2209 and
related documents to determine if your local training meets the
requirements, or invest in the Fundamentals of Search and Rescue manual
available on the NASAR website bookstore - and elsewhere online - to use as
a training aid or confirm local training meets ASTM F2209. NASAR also has
other training aids / programs available.
The mounted searcher should also be able to demonstrate use of various
commonly used equipment, understand how the mount is used as a search
partner (naturally, or with specific training for air scenting, etc), have
basic knowledge of equine First Aid, basic mounted tracking skills, etc.
Riders are also expected to demonstrate suitable horsemanship KSA, and the
mount having an appropriate disposition and level of training. Very
generically, a horse/mule and rider that does fine in the chaos of a parade,
and can calmly navigate basic trail obstacles and the more challenging
riding terrain in the extended response area has a good foundation for MSAR.
Also meet any local / state level expectations for SAR / MSAR. For example,
common expectations for mutual aid include arriving self-sufficient for up
to 72 hours with adequate human and horse feed and water in the trailer, and
to be prepared for at least an emergency overnight in the field.
Additional standards are in progress through ASTM for "Mounted Rescue or
Evacuation", which puts the "R" in MSAR. This training is specific to
evaluating the subject and situation, then - assuming it is appropriate -
transporting the subject in the saddle using the identified methods and
procedures. (The standard is based on the methods used successfully for many
years by Mounted in Yosemite National Park, and for several years I have
also been teaching this class across the country.) MSAR lacking this
training would be considered Mounted Searchers.
Going forward, NASAR will have a Mounted SAR testing and certification
program available based on the ASTM standards currently in progress. States,
teams, etc., also have the option of developing a consistent training and
testing program to meet national / international standards.
If you're just getting started in MSAR, or looking to expand team
capabilities, you might get some additional ideas from copies of my
published articles available in PDF format on www.ceoates.com/msar
~ ~ ~ ~
Jorene Downs
SAR & CERT
Mounted SAR
www.ceoates.com/msar