Question: Would I train my own dog if I wanted to be a K9 handler or could I be paired with a dog much like the military? Though most first-aid certs last two or three years, chances are you'll forget how to splint, bandage and otherwise treat after only a few months. Mark Shulkosky from Pennsylvania on July 06, 2012: Very interesting Dan. The North Face Terra 35 is a nice size for a SAR 24-hour pack. He has some of his radio and television interviews that are posted on Youtube. Hello, my name is Roger. Wish I could have found something so perfectly laid out and concise when I was physically able--accidents and age don't go together--did take a less intense form of "SAR" thru fire department re primarily hurricane/ disaster type work and also trained and joined for a "mental crisis team" on-site, on call 24/7--victims left in shock in fatal accidents, etc. You may find, that in many areas that the local fire department is responsible for conducting searches. Most teams tend to attract outdoor experts: licensed guides, climbers, mountaineers, backpackers and survivalists. Question: What is the age limit for search and rescue? I was wondering what all I had to do to sign up with a search and rescue group. Wilderness first aid relies on skills and improvisation. So happy for you and those you've helped, because the only ones I've seen are the unhappy ones. Dan Human (author) from Niagara Falls, NY on July 15, 2012: One thing we must always be mindful of on a search is where the friends and family of the subject are. The dogs might be able to find a person but they can't read a map, operate a radio or perform first aid. Find the Military Career right for YOU ! I would only add that experiences will vary from place to place. I’ve taken CPR classes in the past, learned to read topography maps, use GPS and how to use a compass. supervising or assisting in search and rescue operations; Working environment. Sometimes, they will join search parties or be inside the incident command building. What Military Branch Sees the Most Combat? This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional. The classes that I need too would be great. In the event that K-9 resources are not needed, the handlers become crew members in the regular SAR land team. Where do I need to go. It is common for a team to have their own pack content standards. I want nothing more than to be an aviation crewmember, jump out of helicopters and rescue civilians. Remember that all emergency responders, SAR, Fire, EMS, HAZMAT and Law Enforcement require training in ICS and NIMS. The best idea is to contact your local team and investigate their joining standards. Search and Rescue high-angle equipment is generally team gear. Is there a certain major that works well/is desired for Search and Rescue? From traffic accidents to large-scale disasters, ICS exists as the overall command system. They work at Peacetime Coast security, Maritime intercept operations, and Environmental defense, as well as their priority Search and Rescue. Your location determines the type and scope of search teams available to join. Being a small community in the Allegheney Mts. Every year, lost and injured people rely on the life-saving services of volunteer and professional Search and Rescue (SAR) groups. It is likewise hard to navigate using a GPS when it is buried inside your jacket.