Here are a few responses to some of the various posts on this subject.


Actually, FEAM does not run most SAR teams. They do have FEMA funded and supported Urban Search and Rescue Teams (USAR Teams), but most wilderness and non-structural urban search (lost person) teams are either local fire department (east coast) or associated with a Sheriff’s Department (mid- and western regions). All lost person searches are Law Enforcement (LE) events, until proven otherwise. Generally, LE is the entity/agency in charge of the search with fire/rescue in support for the rescue portion of the operation.

Yes, a national credentialing program for wilderness search and rescue, along with swiftwater and a few other rescue specialties that have not historically been covered by the Professional Qualifications Board for the Fire Service. The PBQ, uses NFPA standards for establishing criteria for which to evaluate and certify the level of training of an individual in particular areas of firefighting and rescue. The SAR criteria, while purposed is still under review, but as you point out, is eventually coming.

As to leaving an article of clothing for search purposes, just realize that search dogs, like people are specialized. Air scent dogs, do not or will not use an article of your clothing to perform search operations. They detect any human scent, so it is important not to contaminate the search area with unnecessary personal/visitors. A tracking dog will use an article of clothing to perform their search function. Cadaver dogs detect the byproducts of human remains decay. While there are dogs that cross detect, most are highly specialized.

Pete