Oswego County Search and Rescue Completes Search Management Course

Oswego County Pioneer Search and Rescue hosted a 24-hour Search management class. Students and their instructors are pictured from multiple search and rescue teams. L-R Dylan Holden, Aaron Albrecht, Paul Repak, Rob Drabot, Kim Backman, Amy Larock, Jason Fellows, David Powers, Leonard Redhead, Kelly Schulz, Chris Smith, Michael Backman, Ryan Healy, Dennis Merlino, Jeff Sargent, Joe Homola.

Oswego County Search and Rescue team recently held a comprehensive 24-hour training course aimed at equipping new search managers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for effective search management. The course, "Managing the Inland Search Function" emphasizes the importance of initiating, planning, and managing all aspects of Search and Rescue incidents, starting from the initial actions phase, ongoing operational periods, and the subsequent demobilization of resources. This structured approach ensures that all actions taken during an incident are well-coordinated and recorded, which is vital for both operational efficiency and accountability.

Participants are guided through the intricacies of planning, which involves not only the logistics of the search but also the strategic allocation of resources and personnel.

The course is designed to incorporate essential elements of pre-planning and operational strategies in various environments, including wilderness, rural, and urban settings. This diversity in training scenarios prepares search managers to effectively adapt their approaches based on the unique challenges presented by different terrains and circumstances. Additionally, the curriculum addresses the management of external influences that may impact search operations, such as weather conditions, public safety concerns, and the involvement of other agencies or organizations.

Finally, the training also encompasses after-action tasks, which are critical for evaluating the effectiveness of the response and identifying areas for improvement. These tasks not only help in refining future operations but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the Search and Rescue team. By providing this course, search managers are better prepared to lead their teams in high-stakes situations, ensuring that they can respond swiftly and effectively to future search and rescue missions. Students attended from Oswego County Pioneer Search and Rescue Team, Wilderness Search and Rescue Team (Onondaga County), and Boonville Search and Rescue Team (Oneida County).