INCIDENT SUPPORT TEAM
MISSION CONTROL
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The Incident Support Team (IST) is the backbone of El Dorado Search and Rescue operations. IST plans and runs the search, is responsible for the safety and well-being of all searchers, and provides round-the-clock support in all weather conditions. EDSAR Field Team Members contribute their skills and expertise to enhance IST's capabilities. Aligned with national and state standards (NIMS, ICS, and SEMS), IST ensures efficient, effective coordination for complex rescue missions.
Being part of IST is highly rewarding but requires significant ongoing training to manage critical SAR operations and diverse technologies:
FEMA's online NIMS and ICS Training: The principles and practices of incident management and coordination with other agencies and organizations involved in the incident.
Search and Rescue Planning: Develop effective search plans, including defining the search area, assigning resources, and establishing timelines.
Search Tactics: Learn and select appropriate search techniques based on incident circumstances.
Map Production: Utilize advanced mapping and spatial analysis techniques to create detailed maps to guide search efforts.
Resource Management: Allocate necessary resources, including personnel, vehicles, and specialized equipment to designated search areas.
Situation Analysis: Collect and analyze critical information, including field team reports, to assess risks and opportunities and inform decision-making.
Radio Communications: Facilitate effective and reliable communication between incident command and field teams using two-way radios.
Interviewing: Techniques to gather critical information from the missing person's family, friends, and witnesses to aid in the search effort.
Debriefing: Facilitate gathering information from field and command teams to discuss the mission, what worked well, what didn't, and lessons learned.
Logistics Management: Oversee the procurement, distribution, and maintenance of essential supplies and equipment.
Search planning and tactics require constant review
Creating search maps requires significant training
Many of our senior staff have undergone specialized SAR training, including the California Office of Emergency Services' training for “Direction and Control of the Search Function” and Winter and Summer Field Safety Operations, the National Association of Search and Rescue (NASAR)'s training for “Managing the Lost Persons Incident”, and training from the prestigious U.S. Air force and U.S. Coast Guard’s “National Search and Rescue School”, which is the same school used to train U.S. military SAR teams.
Hasty searches demand prompt, thoughtful planning, deployment, and execution
Large-scale, multi-county mutual aid searches require scaling and coordinating management
Evidence and field intelligence from searches must be carefully analyzed to discern validity
SAR missions can be looking for the lost in urban or wilderness areas or gathering and providing evidence and field intelligence for the Sheriff’s Department. The Incident Support Team manages all phases of a SAR operation, even after the mission concludes. Phases can involve:
Hasty: The initial Hasty Search is a rapid response to locate a missing person report. IST swiftly gathers critical information, including the missing person's description, last known location, and potential risks. Based on this data, IST develops an initial search plan, allocates resources, and establishes communication protocols. IST continuously monitors the situation, adjusting the search strategy as needed to maximize the chances of a successful outcome.
Operational Periods: As the Hasty Search concludes, the operation shifts to a structured approach with defined operational periods, timeframes and objectives. IST continually assesses and adjusts search plans, areas, and assignments. Debriefing at the end of each operational period informs the next. The search is ultimately terminated or suspended if the subject is located, progress stalls, or resources are depleted.
Post Search: After a search is formally terminated or suspended, IST conducts a thorough debriefing, analyzes the entire operation, identifies areas for improvement, and closes the incident notifying relevant parties and archiving documentation.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the El Dorado Community Foundation for their generous $61,000 grant. This incredible support enabled the IST Team to acquire a new incident support trailer, which will be invaluable for in-county and mutual aid rescue missions, as well as SAREX training exercises.
Donate today and make a difference in every rescue mission to support those in need.
Your donations will enable our Incident Support Team to continually invest in specialized training and cutting-edge mapping and geolocation technology so our team always stands ready to respond to emergencies and handle complex incidents to find those lost or injured.
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