Complete Volunteer Manual 0511web

SEARCH AND RESCUE
VOLUNTEER
POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL
September 2010
Introduction
This manual is an official publication of the Mason County Sheriffs Office. It is issued by the authority of
the Sheriff of Mason County and contains the policies, procedures and regulations governing the Mason
County Sheriffs Office Volunteer Search and Rescue Program. These policies, procedures, and regulations
are established to direct all personnel in carrying out their duties and responsibilities. Violations of any of the
policies, procedures, or regulations contained in this manual may be grounds for disciplinary action.
It will be the responsibility of every member of the Search and Rescue Division to have a thorough
knowledge of all policies, procedures, and regulations contained in this manual.
SAR Division Purpose and Mission

The Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division exists for the purpose of providing
emergency assistance to the citizens of Mason County in the event of lost persons, injured persons in remote
areas and disaster response, as well as assist other jurisdictions with the same task. As established in RCW
38.52.400, the Mason County Sheriff has responsibility over all search and rescue activities within the
jurisdiction of Mason County except those jurisdictions delegated to federal or municipal agencies.
The Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division is a multi-hazard, primary response Search,
Rescue, Recovery and EMS agency. Overseen by the Mason County Sheriffs Office, we provide countless
services to the residents, visitors and recreationers of Mason County as well as the entire State of Washington.
Mason County SAR is built upon extremely motivated and highly trained individuals, dedicating their lives to
saving others and serving their community.
It is the mission of the Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division to provide professional,
competent and credible resources to the citizens of Mason County during their time of need. We are
committed to building and maintaining a Search and Rescue program which can be relied upon by our
community and others across Washington State.
This goal will be accomplished through the development and implementation of a professional
organization consisting of dedicated, specially trained, properly equipped, employees and volunteers capable
of responding to any Search and Rescue emergency or disaster that occurs in Mason County or throughout
Washington State through adherence to training standards, defined policies and procedures, accountability of
individuals, recruitment of quality volunteers, and leadership development.
Mason County Sheriffs Office

VISION STATEMENT
The Mason County Sheriff's Office will be recognized as an innovative, progressive and resourceful law
enforcement agency. We will foster innovation and positive change as we continually advance our level of
service through constant training, evaluation and input from the citizens of Mason County. Our goal is to
maintain a community environment that is safe and secure by providing effective and timely law enforcement
services, education and partnerships. We will always strive for the highest levels of professionalism,
courtesy, compassion and fairness.
Our vision will be accomplished through an unwavering dedication to public service, an uncompromising
concern for the welfare of all people and total commitment to continuous improvement.
MISSION STATEMENT
"Our mission is to safeguard life and property, preserve the peace, detect and prevent crime, enforce the law
and protect the rights of all citizens. We are committed to working in partnership with the community to
identify and resolve issues that impact public safety. We are dedicated to preserving our citizens' safety by
providing professional, timely and effective service."

Employee Core Values
Core values are guiding principles for realizing our vision and accomplishing our mission
Professionalism I will always be professional in the performance of my duties. My physical appearance,
dress, equipment, and conduct will positively reflect on the agency at all times. I am also committed to
keeping myself informed on current laws, policies, and best practices. I further recognize that continued
professional development will be accomplished through quality recruitment, education, and training.
Integrity I will be absolutely honest while employed with the Mason County Sheriffs Office. As a
community role model this includes all of my activities on and off duty. The citizens of our county have
entrusted us with sacred authority with the expectation that we will always do what is right in all personal and
professional matters.
Accountability I am accountable for my personal and professional actions on a daily basis. I am
accountable to ensure my job performance reflects well on the Mason County Sheriffs Office, my fellow
employees, and the public. I recognize that my accountability incorporates qualities of self-restraint and the
pursuit of excellence. I am also accountable for my conduct off duty so as to reflect positively on the Mason
County Sheriffs Office.
Respect I will demonstrate respect for everyone I come in contact with in the course of my duties. This
includes fellow employees, the citizens we serve and our community partners. I realize that all persons
deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness regardless of their belief system.
Partnership I know that in order for our community to be safe and secure, I need the help of others to
accomplish this mission. I am committed to forming partnerships with other employees, citizens, officials
from other agencies, and other community partners to achieve this goal.
These values will guide our work and decisions, help us to contribute to the Quality of life in Mason
County and promote a positive work experience.
The Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division is a multi-hazard, primary
response Search, Rescue, Recovery and EMS agency. Overseen by the Mason County
Sheriffs Office, we provide countless services to the residents, visitors and recreationers
of Mason County as well as the entire State of Washington. Mason County SAR is built
upon extremely motivated and highly trained individuals, dedicating their lives to saving
others and serving their community.
Position Descriptions
Operations Division The Operations Division of MCSO SAR is the field services and
active response regiment of the unit. This is the largest division and is what most people
think of when they imagine being a SAR member. With 1 exception, the entire Operations
Division is required to pass the Arduous level Physical Agility Test.
SAR Recruit Candidate This is the basic field SAR operative. As a recruit you will attend nearly 9
months of training in preparation to be certified and qualified as a SAR team member. Your training
starts with the SAR Basic Academy and concludes with Mock SAR scenarios, survival training and
graduation ceremonies. The SAR Basic Academy is the entrance ticket for all other units in Mason
County Search and Rescue. The SAR Recruit Candidate position requires successful completion of a
full MCSO SAR Academy as well as passing the arduous level Physical Stamina Test.
SAR Team Member-This is the field level qualified SAR Responder. Team member certification is
achieved upon completion of the SAR Basic Academy and team specific training. The team
assignments available within MCSO SAR include but are not limited to: Special Operations Rescue
Team (SRT), Explorer SAR (ESAR), Mobile SAR (4x4,ORV), Dive Team, K-9 Search Team.
SRT Rescue Technician (Subject Matter Expert) The Special Rescue Team (SRT) is an elite
group of SAR personnel, trained in technical rescue techniques, Swift Water Rescue, Rope Rescue
and other advanced areas. For persons who already have specialized knowledge in specific rescue
fields, you may obtain SME status to assist in the SRT mission. Specialized areas of expertise may
include Man tracking, Emergency Medicine, Survival and Fire Department Operations such as
heavy rescue and auto extrication.
Emergency Medical Technician MCSO SAR is a licensed BLS agency with multiple EMTs on our
staff. EMTs provide a higher level of emergency care to patients and wounded rescuers in the field.
Our top priority is the safety of our staff and the health and well being of our patients. We support this
with highly trained Emergency Medical personnel who are our first line of response to sick and
injured subjects who are otherwise outside the capabilities and/or reach of conventional Fire and
EMS responders. EMTs may choose to be fully field qualified members or may operate in a limited
field capacity and act as a command post or a public event BLS provider.
Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division
Support Division The Support Division is the direct support network of the Operations
Division; providing food, transportation, equipment, communications and overhead
services directly to the field operatives. Support personnel provide an essential service
to MCSO SAR. These services are often best suited for those who wish to contribute to
the vision and the mission of MCSO SAR but are unable or do not wish to be full field
operatives. Depending on the position, most support positions will have limited to
moderate field exposure and will require minimal training in most cases.
Food Services This position will assist the unit with preparation of food during large scale SAR
missions, trainings, public events and operates the MCSO SAR food services trailer to accomplish
these goals. Food Services (FS) personnel will be required to obtain a food handlers permit prior to
operating the FS trailer. This position may include cooking at home as well as on scene of missions
and events for a large number of people. This is a low impact position with little to no field exposure
and minimal training required.
Transportation Specialist This position will assist the unit with transportation of personnel and
equipment on missions and operations. This position will require the use of personally owned
vehicles as well as county owned vehicles. Personnel will be required to attend a Mason County
divers training course to operate emergency vehicles. This position requires limited to moderate field
exposure as well as a moderate level of SAR training.
Administrative Assistant This position will assist in the light duty operation of the unit including,
filing, light clerical work, typing, and organizing. Administrative assistants will work with the MCSO
Staff to keep personnel records, equipment inventory and to perform other tasks as needed. This is a
low impact position with no field exposure and minimal training required.
Public Relations This position will assist the unit with P.R. functions, fundraising and marketing
to the public. PR personnel will help to develop promotional literature, plan fundraising events,
design future recruitment and PR ads as well as other tasks as needed. This is a low impact
position with no field exposure and minimal training required.
Communications Specialist This position will assist the unit by providing integral
communications links and technical support during missions and operations. Comms Specialists will
operate in areas with poor radio coverage act as remote radio relays, operate radios as needed,
complete radio communication logs, talk on specialized frequencies and be able to operate all
critical radio and communication equipment as directed by the Incident Commander or his designee.
This position requires moderate field exposure as well as a moderate level of SAR training which
may include the acquisition of a HAM license.
Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010
SEARCH AND RESCUE

VOLUNTEER POLICIES

Policy #1906
Effective Date 051005
Search and Rescue Division Volunteer Program

Revised 072109
Purpose
This policy establishes the Mason County Sheriffs Office position on the utilization and management of its
Search and Rescue Volunteer Program, which includes the management and administration of its volunteer
workers.
Policy
It is the policy of the Mason County Sheriff's Office to use qualified volunteers for specified tasks and duties
that can create efficiencies and improve services to the community. Volunteers are intended to supplement and
support, rather than supplant the staff.
The SAR Volunteers will be under the direction of the Search and Rescue Supervisor. All matters will go
through the Search and Rescue Division Chain of Command
The tasks of the volunteers may include, but not limited to, administrative support, Search and Rescue,
communications support and disaster support.
Procedure
A. Recruitment
1. SAR volunteers shall be recruited on a continuous and ongoing basis consistent with Mason
Countys policy on equal opportunity non-discriminatory employment. A primary qualification for
participation in the application process shall be an interest in and an ability to assist the Mason
County Sheriff's Office in serving the public
B. Screening
1. All prospective volunteers shall complete the volunteer application form.
2. A documented background check shall be completed on each volunteer applicant and approved
by the Chief Deputy.
3. The SAR Supervisor or his/her designee shall conduct an interview with an applicant under
consideration.
C. Selection and Placement

1. Each volunteer is selected on the basis of ability to perform the volunteer position, as needed
and/or assigned by the Mason County Sheriff's Office, and their ability and willingness to
attend training.
2. There shall be no discrimination against an otherwise qualified volunteer as protected by
federal, state or local law.
3. Volunteers shall be placed only in job assignments or programs that are consistent with their
knowledge, skills, abilities, and the needs and/or assignments of the Mason County Sheriff's
Office.
D. Training
1. The Mason County Sheriff's Office SAR Division staff shall assist with finding trainers, the
location of training, and notifying volunteers of training.
2. Volunteers shall be provided with assignment-specific training to ensure they have the
minimum knowledge and skills to complete tasks required by the position.
3. Volunteers shall be required to attend on going training as deemed appropriate by the Chief
Deputy of Operations or his/her designee.
4. Training shall reinforce to volunteers that they may not intentionally represent themselves as,
or by omission infer that they are commissioned or full time employees of the Mason County
Sheriff's Office. They shall always represent themselves as volunteers.
5. All volunteers shall comply with the rules of conduct and with all orders and directives, either
oral or written, issued by the Mason County Sheriff's Office.
6. All training will be approved through the SAR Supervisor.
7. All training and experience, previous or current, will be reviewed and approved or denied by
the SAR Supervisor.
E. Fitness for Duty
1. Volunteers must be physically and mentally able to perform required tasks of the assigned
position.
2. No volunteer shall report for duty when his/her judgment or physical condition has been
impaired by alcohol, medication, other substances, illness or injury.
3. Volunteers shall report to the Mason County Sheriff's Office any changes in status that may
affect their ability to fulfill their duties. This includes bit is not limited to:
a. Drivers License
b. Medical condition
c. Arrest
d. Criminal investigation
4. A Doctors release may be required to return to the volunteers previous assignment. This will
be at the discretion of the Chief Deputy.
F. Dress Code
1. Volunteers shall conform to the dress requirements, if any, of their duty assignment.
2. Volunteers shall be clean and presentable when at/or representing the Mason County Sheriff's
Office.
3. If a uniform is worn, the uniform policy will be followed.
G. Property and Equipment
1. Volunteers shall be issued an identification card that will be carried at all times while on duty.
2. Any fixed and portable equipment issued by the Mason County Sheriff's Office shall be for
official and authorized use only.
3. Any property or equipment issued to a volunteer shall remain the property of the Mason
County Sheriff's Office and shall be returned at the termination of service.
4. Volunteers will not carry firearms while employed on SAR missions, trainings or events. The
only exceptions are qualified law enforcement officers, qualified agency reserve officers or
qualified retired law enforcement officers as defined in 18 U.S. Code 926 B and C, Law
Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA).
H. Confidentiality
1. Due to the nature of the business conducted at the Mason County Sheriff's Office, a volunteer
may possess information that is confidential and not public record. The individual shall not
discuss or reveal the information to anyone who is not authorized to have it.
I. Disciplinary Procedures/Termination
1. A volunteer may be released from the volunteer program at the discretion of the Chief Patrol
Deputy or his/her designee. Termination of volunteers shall not be subject to due process
considerations.
2. The Mason County Sheriff's Office may release a volunteer because of the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Restructuring of the volunteer program

Elimination of position
Inability or failure to complete the requirements of the position
Noncompliance with Mason County Sheriff's Office policies, procedures, and
directives
5. At will
J. Evaluation
1. An evaluation of the overall volunteer program shall be conducted on and annual basis by the
Chief Patrol Deputy.
2. Evaluations of all emergency workers will be conducted on an on going basis by the SAR
Supervisor.
K. Comments, Suggestions and/or Complaints
1. All comments, suggestions, and/or complaints shall be first brought through the Search and
Rescue Division Chain of Command.
Volunteer Position Descriptions

Operations Division The Operations Division of MCSO SAR is the field services and active
response regiment of the unit. This is the largest division and is what most people think of when they
imagine being a SAR member. With 1 exception, the entire Operations Division is required to pass
the Arduous level Physical Agility Test.
SAR Recruit Candidate This is the basic field SAR operative. As a recruit you will attend nearly 9 months
of training in preparation to be certified and qualified as a SAR team member. Your training starts with the
SAR Basic Academy and concludes with Mock SAR scenarios, survival training and graduation ceremonies.
The SAR Basic Academy is the entrance ticket for all other units in Mason County Search and Rescue. The
SAR Recruit Candidate position requires successful completion of a full MCSO SAR Academy as well as
passing the arduous level Physical Stamina Test.
SAR Team Member-This is the field level qualified SAR Responder. Team member certification is achieved
upon completion of the SAR Basic Academy and team specific training. The team assignments available within
MCSO SAR include but are not limited to: Special Operations Rescue Team (SRT), Explorer SAR (ESAR),
Mobile SAR (4x4,ORV), Dive Team, K-9 Search Team.
SRT Rescue Technician (Subject Matter Expert) The Special Rescue Team (SRT) is an elite group of
SAR personnel, trained in technical rescue techniques, Swift Water Rescue, Rope Rescue and other advanced
areas. For persons who already have specialized knowledge in specific rescue fields, you may obtain SME
status to assist in the SRT mission. Specialized areas of expertise may include Man tracking, Emergency
Medicine, Survival and Fire Department Operations such as heavy rescue and auto extrication.
Emergency Medical Technician MCSO SAR is a licensed BLS agency with multiple EMTs on our staff.
EMTs provide a higher level of emergency care to patients and wounded rescuers in the field. Our top priority
is the safety of our staff and the health and well being of our patients. We support this with highly trained
Emergency Medical personnel who are our first line of response to sick and injured subjects who are otherwise
outside the capabilities and/or reach of conventional Fire and EMS responders. EMTs may choose to be fully
field qualified members or may operate in a limited field capacity and act as a command post or a public event
BLS provider.
Support Division The Support Division is the direct support network of the Operations Division;
providing food, transportation, equipment, communications and overhead services directly to the field
operatives. Support personnel provide an essential service to MCSO SAR. These services are often best
suited for those who wish to contribute to the vision and the mission of MCSO SAR but are unable or
do not wish to be full field operatives. Depending on the position, most support positions will have
limited to moderate field exposure and will require minimal training in most cases.
Food Services This position will assist the unit with preparation of food during large scale SAR missions,
trainings, public events and operates the MCSO SAR food services trailer to accomplish these goals. Food
Services (FS) personnel will be required to obtain a food handlers permit prior to operating the FS trailer.
This position may include cooking at home as well as on scene of missions and events for a large number of
people. This is a low impact position with little to no field exposure and minimal training required.
Transportation Specialist This position will assist the unit with transportation of personnel and equipment
on missions and operations. This position will require the use of personally owned vehicles as well as county
owned vehicles. Personnel will be required to attend a Mason County divers training course to operate
emergency vehicles. This position requires limited to moderate field exposure as well as a moderate level of
SAR training.
Administrative Assistant This position will assist in the light duty operation of the unit including, filing,
light clerical work, typing, and organizing. Administrative assistants will work with the MCSO Staff to keep
personnel records, equipment inventory and to perform other tasks as needed. This is a low impact position
with no field exposure and minimal training required.
Public Relations This position will assist the unit with P.R. functions, fundraising and marketing to the
public. PR personnel will help to develop promotional literature, plan fundraising events, design future
recruitment and PR ads as well as other tasks as needed. This is a low impact position with no field exposure
and minimal training required.
Communications Specialist This position will assist the unit by providing integral communications links
and technical support during missions and operations. Comms Specialists will operate in areas with poor radio
coverage act as remote radio relays, operate radios as needed, complete radio communication logs, talk on
specialized frequencies and be able to operate all critical radio and communication equipment as directed by
the Incident Commander or his designee. This position requires moderate field exposure as well as a moderate
level of SAR training which may include the acquisition of a HAM license.
Volunteer Basic Training Requirements
There are three classes of Search and Rescue Volunteers: Novice, Support, and Field Personnel. Below are
the qualifications for each class.
Novice personnel shall:
1.
Be physically and mentally fit for the position assigned
2.
Possess sufficient knowledge of SAR skills and techniques to fulfill
their emergency assignment.
Support personnel shall:
1. Be physically and mentally fit for the position assigned
2. Possess knowledge of the skills required of field SAR workers
3. Posses knowledge in first aid for the control of bleeding, CPR, bone immobilization,
protection from the elements, and protection from blood borne pathogens.
4. Possess basic knowledge of helicopter operations (basic helicopter).
5. Possess demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in helicopter operations (intermediate or
advanced helicopter).
Field personnel shall: *
1. Be physically and mentally fit for the position assigned.
2. Possess knowledge of and demonstrated proficiency in survival techniques and outdoor
living.
3. Posses knowledge in first aid for the control of bleeding, CPR, bone immobilization,
protection from the elements, and protection from blood borne pathogens.
4. Possess basic knowledge of helicopter operations (basic helicopter).
5. possess demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in helicopter operations (intermediate or
advanced helicopter)
6. Possess knowledge in wilderness navigation including map, compass, and other navigation
methods as appropriate
7. Possess knowledge of SAR techniques.
8. Possess knowledge of crime scene recognition, evidence recognition, human remains
recognition and the provisions of RCW 68.50.010, 68.50.020, and 68.50.050
10
Courses that must be repeated in full every two years regardless of when the certification expires:
CPR
First Aid
Blood borne Pathogens
Basic Helicopter
Intermediate Helicopter
Courses that must be successfully completed by field rated personnel*. Field personnel must be able to
demonstrate proficiency in these areas.
Map and Compass/Navigation
Hypo/Hyperthermia
Survival
Human Remains
Communications
Legal
Crime Scene
Evidence Search
Tactics and Techniques
Courses that are only required once:
CISM
ICS 100**
ICS 700**
Vehicle/24-48hr Pack Equipment*
All of these requirements must be met in addition to unit specific training for SAR personnel to be qualified
to go into the field on a mission. All required courses will be taught in accordance with an approved
curriculum.
* Specialized teams may be relieved of some requirements based on the nature of their duties
** ICS 100 and 700 are available through FEMA in distance learning format and must be completed as a
pre-requisite to Emergency Worker registration.
11
Physical Agility / Training / Fitness Requirements

Physical Ability Standards are set for most positions* ranging from Arduous levels of activity to Light.
MCSO SAR follows the United States Forrest Service model for establishing physical ability standards. The
USFS Work Capacity Test provides an excellent framework, and is very similar in nature to SAR activities.
All staff attempting full field certification must meet the Arduous level criteria as outlined in the Work
Capacity Testing for Wildland Firefighters handout.
The Physical ability standards are broken in to 3 categories:
Light - work involves mainly office-type work with occasional field activity. Most Logistics staff
members are required to maintain this level of physical ability.
Moderate - work involves lifting 25 50 pounds, and occasional demand for moderately strenuous
activity. All Operations Division personnel and SAR Recruits perform moderate duty and are required
to maintain this level of physical ability before graduation.
Arduous - work involves above average endurance (aerobic fitness), lifting more than 50 pounds
(muscular fitness), and occasional demands for extraordinarily strenuous activities. Team Leaders,
Field Leaders and SAR EMTs are required to pass the Arduous level test at the completion of their
academy but are only required to maintain the Moderate physical ability level. SRT candidates must
pass and maintain the Arduous work physical ability level at all times.
Fitness Requirement
Test
Description
Arduous
Pack Test
3-mile hike with 45 pound pack in 45 min
Moderate
Field Test
2-mile hike with 25 pound pack in 30 min
Light
Walk Test
1-mile hike in 16 min
ESAR
Pack Test
3-mile hike with 48 hour pack in 45 min
* Not all positions require Physical Agility Standards. Personnel of all physical ability levels are needed
for SAR operations
12
Position
Division
Initial Fitness
Requirement
Maintenance
Fitness
Requirement
SAR Recruit Candidate
Operations
Moderate
Moderate
SRT - Rescue Technician
Operations
Arduous
Arduous
SAR EMT - Field
Operations
Arduous
Arduous
SAR K-9
Operations
Arduous
Arduous
SAR Mobile (4X4)
Operations
Light
Light
SAR Squad Leader (TL)
Operations
Arduous
Arduous
SAR Branch Director (FL)
Operations
Arduous
Arduous
SAR Operations Sect. Chief
Operations
Moderate
Moderate
SAR Logistics Sect. Chief
Operations
Moderate
Moderate
SAR Safety Officer
Operations
Operations
Moderate
Moderate
Moderate
Moderate
ESAR
ESAR
ESAR Recruit Candidate

Operations
ESAR Operator (Up to FL)
SRT - Subject Matter Expert
Logistics
Light
Light
EMT Base
Logistics
Light
Light
Food Services
Logistics
Light
Light
Transportation Specialist
Logistics
Light
Light
Communications Specialist
Logistics
Light
Light
Field Support
Logistics
Light
Light
Incident Management Team
Logistics
Light
Light
Administrative Assistant
Logistics
None
None
Public Relations
Logistics
None
None
Facilities Maintenance
Logistics
None
None
Training /
Fitness
Requirements
Costs
Mason County Search and Rescue is a volunteer service and is not publicly funded, certain
personal costs will be incurred for the purchase of personal field gear, perishables, uniform
items, fuel and other expenses during training and emergencies. Cost should never be a reason
for not applying or attending the recruit academy. There are many avenues for fund raising and
obtaining gear to ensure that all dedicated and committed recruits and support personnel will be
able to participate and attend training.
Anyone with questions or concerns regarding costs or obtaining personal equipment should feel
free to contact any of the senior membership or Sheriffs Office SAR staff. Mason County SAR
has a small cache of personal equipment items that can be issued to volunteers to assist in
offsetting costs and gear needs. Please feel free to contact us regarding the availability of gear
and your personal equipment needs.
National Incident Management System Compliance

In 2004, the Department of Homeland Security released Presidential Directive #8, requiring all
emergency responders, regardless of affiliation to hold appropriate NIMS certifications for their
position. The primary function of this directive is to ensure that all emergency response agencies
throughout the United States will be able to interoperate during large scale emergencies and
disasters. Therefore, all SAR recruits must complete NIMS IS-100 and IS-700, as is appropriate
for their level of training. These are lifetime certifications and need only be completed once. All
NIMS certificates are obtained online at the availability of the recruit. These courses must be
completed prior to registration as an Emergency Worker through Mason County Emergency
Management.
SAR Volunteer Standards Revised 07/2010
14
Emergency Worker Responsibilities WAC 118-04-200:

1. Emergency workers (EW) shall be responsible to certify to the authorized officials registering
them and using their services that they are aware of and will comply with all applicable
responsibilities set forth in these rules.
A. EW have the responsibility to notify the on-scene authorized official if they have been using
any medical prescription or other drug that has the potential to render them impaired, unfit, or
unable to carry out their emergency assignment.
B. Participation by EW in any mission, training event, or other authorized activity while under
the influence of or while using narcotics or any illegal controlled substance is prohibited.
C. Participation by EW in any mission, training event, or other authorized activity while under
the influence of alcohol is prohibited.
D. EW participating in any mission, training event, or other authorized activity shall possess a
valid operator's license if they are assigned to operate vehicles, vessels, or aircraft during the
mission, unless specifically directed otherwise by an authorized official in accordance with RCW
38.52.180. All EW driving vehicles to or from a mission must possess a valid driver's license and
required insurance.
E. Use of private vehicles, vessels, boats, or aircraft by EW in any mission, training event, or
other authorized activity without liability insurance required by chapter 46.29 RCW is prohibited
unless specifically directed otherwise by an authorized official in accordance with RCW
38.52.180.
F. EW shall adhere to all applicable traffic regulations during any mission, training event or
authorized activity. This provision does not apply to individuals who have completed the
emergency vehicle operator course or the emergency vehicle accident prevention course who are
duly authorized under state law to use special driving skills and equipment and who do so at the
direction of an authorized official.
2. EW have the responsibility to comply with all other requirements as determined by the
authorized official using their services.
3. When reporting to the scene, EW have the responsibility to inform the on-scene authorized
official whether they are mentally and physically fit for their assigned duties. EW reporting as
not fit for currently assigned duties may request a less demanding assignment that is appropriate
to their current capabilities.
4. EW have the responsibility to check in with the appropriate on-scene official and to complete
all required record keeping and reporting.
15
MASON COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE

SEARCH AND RESCUE DIVISION
VOLUNTEER UNIT
ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS
I.
Purpose.
The purpose of this document shall be to assist with the administration

and operation of Volunteer search and rescue units under the direction of the
Mason County Sheriffs Office.
II. Organization
A. Units
In order to accommodate the interests and abilities of individual
MCVSAR members, facilitate training activities, and respond to the
needs of the Mason County Sheriffs Office, MCVSAR will be divided
into units such as, but not limited to:
1. Base Operations
2. Basic & Intermediate Ground SAR
3. Hasty Team Ground SAR
4. Equestrian SAR
5. Search Dogs
6. ESAR
7. Mobile (4x4)
8. Off Road Vehicle SAR
9. Medical Response Team
10. Tracking Teams
11. Communications
12. Finance / Fundraising
B. Special Rosters.
In addition to established volunteer units, the Sheriffs office may
establish and maintain Special Rosters such as specially trained
personnel, trained medical personnel, and qualified
team leaders.
C. Qualifications.
1. The minimum qualifications of each Unit will be established by
the Sheriffs Office.
16
2. Each Unit must adhere to the established training standards

mandated by the Sheriffs Office. (See Training Standard
Appendix)
III. Membership
A. To qualify for initial membership in a MCVSAR unit, an applicant
must:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Be at least 14 years of age.

Attend a unit meeting of their choice
Complete an application for membership.
Pass a background check by the Mason County Sheriffs Office.
Secure a Washington State Emergency Workers Identification
Card (DEM card).
B. To maintain membership a member must:

1. Maintain minimum qualifications, training, and mission
participation within at least one unit.
2. . Fulfill MCVSAR Basic Training Requirements as mandated by
the Sheriffs Office.
3. Be responsible for advising their unit when personal contact
information [phone number(s) and address] changes occur.
4. Complete and submit a Record of Training to the Unit Training
Officer
upon completion of each training event he/she
participates in.
a. Members are also encouraged to maintain their own
training file where they keep duplicate copies of each
Record of Training submitted to the Unit Training Officer.
NOTE: Volunteers are responsible to ensure their
training
records are current and
complete.
C. All members of volunteer units capable of field operations will be
Ground Search qualified as defined by the Sheriffs Office SAR
qualifications.
1. Exceptions based on specific specialties will be evaluated on a
case by
case basis.
D. Each member must adhere to all policies, procedures and directives
set forth by the Sheriffs Office.
E. Each member may belong to as many units as he/she chooses,
providing he/she
meets the requirements established by the Sheriffs
Office for each unit.
F. The Mason County Sheriff's Office may release a volunteer because of the following:
17
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Inability or failure to complete the requirements of the position

Noncompliance with Mason County Sheriff's Office policies
Elimination of position
Restructuring of the volunteer program
At will
G. Mason County Department Emergency Management reserves the right to revoke a

volunteers Emergency Worker Registration for cause.
IV. Unit Leadership
A. The Unit Leadership shall be comprised of volunteers overseen by
the Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Coordinators. Unit
Leaders will serve
as representatives to the Mason County SAR Council.
(See Chain of Command
appendix)
B. Each Unit shall have a Leader. The leader will report to the Sheriffs
Office SAR Coordinators.
1. Each Unit will select an Assistant Leader to assist with
coordinating
unit activities. The Assistant may also attend
meetings, and in the absence
of the Unit Leader,
speak on matters addressed by the body.
C. Volunteer Unit Leaders shall be selected by the respective units and
serve until they choose to step down or are relieved
of command.
D. When a vacancy occurs on the Unit Leadership, a replacement shall
be
selected from the appropriate Operational Group, or the
membership at
large, to hold office until the next regular
election.
E. The Mason County Sheriffs Office has the authority to remove any
volunteer Unit Leader from his/her position in accordance with Policy 1906.
V. Duties of the Unit Leadership. The Unit Leadership shall:
A. Ensure the proper registration and management of all unit resources
within
their respective units.
1. All Units are required to create and maintain up to date Call OutRosters
for their membership. Those rosters will be submitted to the Search and
Rescue Division and Emergency Management. It is the responsibility of
each unit to ensure the rosters are kept current and new ones submitted as
necessary.
18
B. Hold monthly training sessions/ business meetings

C. Ensure the achievement, maintenance, and documentation of the
training
standards set forth by the Sheriffs Office:
1. The Unit Leader or member in charge of the training session is
responsible to oversee proper completion by each member of
all paperwork, to include DEM Sign-In Sheets and Training
Records for the training event, and to turn over the
documents to the Sheriffs Office SAR Coordinator within 5
working days.
D. Assure that the unit is prepared to fulfill its purpose by:
1. Establishing and maintaining unit rosters and resources.
2. Promoting and coordinating appropriate training activities.
3. Preparing appropriate policies and Standard Operational
Procedures
(SOPs) for any aspect of the units operation
not specifically covered
elsewhere in this document for
approval by the Sheriffs Office.
4. Assigning individual members and/or appointing special
committees or
teams to perform specific tasks related to the
operation of the unit.
5. Conducting fundraising activities to support their units
operation
VI. Finances
A. There shall be no membership fees to any volunteer unit.
B. The financial records of the unit shall be audited annually by a
qualified accountant, or by at least two members of the unit as
appointed by the Unit Leadership.
C. No volunteer officer or member of any volunteer unit shall
receive any remuneration for duties performed on behalf of
MCVSAR.
D. Individual units shall be responsible to conduct fundraising
efforts and/or solicit corporate sponsorship to fund the
organization and its operations. Limited funds may be available
from the Sheriffs Office.
19
E. In the event a volunteer unit ceases to exist, all remaining unit

funds shall be turned over to the Mason County Sheriffs Office.
F. Each unit shall obtain the proper Federal and State certifications
as a volunteer, non-profit organization.
VIII. Equipment
A. Members are responsible for the procurement and maintenance of
all personal equipment. Damage or losses during authorized
missions and training may be reimbursed through Washington State
Emergency Management.
B. In the event a volunteer unit ceases to exist, all unit equipment
shall be turned over to the Mason County Sheriffs Office.
C. Any equipment assigned to the Unit/ Individual from the Sheriffs
office shall be inventoried and properly maintained.
1. Members shall being all required equipment to every mission /
training unless otherwise directed.
IX. Uniforms
A. SAR volunteers shall wear approved uniforms as prescribed in the
Uniform Policy.
20
This Page is Intentionally Blank
21
Chain of Command
The chart below depicts the chain of command for the Search and Rescue Division.
The operational chain of command will follow the Incident Command System Model with the
duty SAR Deputy as the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will report to the Chief
Deputy and then on to the Sheriff.
Sheriff
Under Sheriff
Chief Criminal Deputy
SAR Coordinator
Special Rescue Team
SAR Deputies
Volunteer Units
22
23
Search and Rescue Volunteer Uniform Policy

I. Purpose
The standard for the wear and appearance of the Search and Rescue volunteer uniform will
provide easy identification of SAR volunteers, easy visual recognition for safety and project a
professional image to the public.
II. Scope
This standard applies to all members of any MCVSAR unit while engaged in SAR activities.
III. Minimum Required Equipment
Since cost is a factor for any volunteer force, the minimum required pieces of uniform attire will
be as shirt and hat as prescribed by policy.
IV. Ownership
The Mason County Sheriffs Office retains domain over any patch, insignia, or emblem that
bears the name Mason County Search and Rescue regardless if the item was purchased by
personal funds of the volunteer. The Sheriffs office reserves the right to revoke the wear and use
of such items as it deems necessary.
V. Wear of the Uniform
Uniforms shall be worn when representing Mason County Search and Rescue on SAR missions,
training events, meetings, public service functions, and recruitment details. The uniform, or
pieces thereof, may be worn on off duty times only in good taste, in order to promote search
and Rescue support within the community.
When worn, the uniform shall be clean, serviceable and presentable. Shirts shall be tucked in.
Any patches, insignias, and emblems shall conform to the Insignia Placement Section of this
document.
The Mason County Search and Rescue uniform or nay part there of that identifies the wearer as a
mason County SAR volunteer shall not be worn to make any political statements or show any
type of political support.
24
VI. Prescribed Uniform

The full uniform shall be as follows:
1. Winter Uniform
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Hat - Black baseball style cap with the Mason County SAR patch
sewn or embroidered on the front. A black winter fur lined cap with the
appropriate logo or ski type cap is also authorized.
Shirt - Long or short sleeved bright yellow shirt with authorized
insignia with the collar open and a black undershirt or turtle neck shirt
underneath.
Pants - Black or woodland camouflage BDU style pants.
Outerwear - Bright yellow coat, parka, jacket, jumpsuit or other
outerwear with authorized insignia.
Boots - Appropriate boots that provide complete protection from the
elements and ground hazards.
Helmets Helmets shall be worn by all members participating in a
hazardous environment where helmets are required. The helmet shall be of a
regulation type and style for the environment or task. The helmet should be a
bright color, adorned with the appropriate decal.
Exceptions to this policy may be considered on a case by case basis
by the Sheriffs Office SAR Division staff.
VII. Insignia Placement

1. Shoulder Patch
a. Shirts, coats etc. The SAR shoulder patch shall be centered on the left
sleeve, below the shoulder seam.
b. Vests the patch will be located on the front, upper left side of the vest.
c. Other equipment the patch will be placed in a visible area not subjected to
high amounts of wear and abuse.
2. American Flag patch
a. The American flag patch shall be centered on the right shoulder 1/2 below
the shoulder seam. The reverse flag patch shall be used so that the stars are
aligned forward.
b. On a vest, the patch shall be centered on the front, upper right portion of the
vest. The normal configuration of the flag patch shall be used.
3. Name Tape
a.
The name tape shall be black with yellow embroidery with the
first initial and last name of the wearer, i.e. W. Adam. The letters shall be
high.
25
b.
The name tape shall be worn centered above, and parallel to the
left shirt pocket, touching the upper seam of the pocket. For jackets, the name
tape will be located in the same position, with or without a pocket.
c.
A patch bearing the word volunteer shall be constructed in
the same manner as the name tape shall be affixed directly above the wearers
name.
4. Unit Name Patch
a.
The unit name patch shall be black with yellow embroidery

bearing the name of the unit, i.e. Mobile, GSAR, ORV. The letters shall be
high.
b.
The unit name patch shall be worn centered above, and parallel
to the right shirt pocket, touching the upper seam of the pocket. For jackets,
the name tape will be located in the same position, with or without a pocket.
5. Specialty Patches
a.
Specialty patches may be worn by volunteers certified in the

specialty. The patch shall be worn on the right sleeve, of the shirt or jacket 1
inch below the flag or as a rocker style patch in combination with the
shoulder patch.
b.
Examples of specialty patches are: ESAR, Communications,
First responder, EMT, Paramedic, Swiftwater Rescue Technician, Mobile etc.
consult a SAR Coordinator for approval of any specialty patch not listed.
VIII. Uniform Deviation
a. Any deviation form the prescribed uniform must be approved by the
Sheriffs Office chain of command. Deviations will be granted on a case
by case basis.
IX. Grandfather Clause
Any SAR volunteer possessing uniform items based on a previous version of this policy may
continue to wear such items until they become unserviceable. Any items acquired for wear after
06/01/2008 must conform to this policy.
26
SEARCH AND RESCUE

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
27
28
CHAPTER ONE
GENERAL
01.00.00
01.01.00 - POLICY
Mason County Sheriffs Office shall be responsible, per RCW 38.52.400, for all Search and
Rescue (SAR) operations within the jurisdiction of Mason County and for Mason County Search
and Rescue (MCSAR) resources deployed elsewhere. Positive control of all forces must be
maintained commensurate with adopted National Incident Management System protocols.
01.02.00 - PRIORITIES
MCSAR is committed to providing the highest standard of service to our community. We are
duty bound to respond, even at great personal risk, when others are in need; however, it shall be
the duty of every MCSAR member to minimize risk and mitigate hazards to the best of their
abilities. The priorities of this division shall be:
01.02.01 Life
Your life and the lives of your fellow emergency workers before the mission, if you
parish in the line of duty, you cannot fulfill your mission and others will be lost as well.
01.02.02 Health
Your health and the health of your fellow emergency workers before your mission, if you
are rendered incapable of responding to your mission, no one can go in our place.
01.02.03 Safety
Your safety and the safety of your fellow emergency workers before the mission, if you
are not safe you are incapable of bringing others to safety.
01.03.00 STANDARD ORDERS
01.03.01 Respond with haste whenever and wherever you are needed providing for
safety first.
01.03.02 Aggressively pursue your mission to the best of your ability but know and
understand your limits. Do not become another casualty.
01.03.04 Know and follow your chain of command at all times.
01.03.05 Maintain good communications at all times.
01.03.05 Adhere to the core values of PROFESSIONALISM, INTEGRITY,
ACCOUNTABLITY, RESPECT, and PARTNERSHIP at all times.
01.04.00 OPERATIONAL LEADERSHIP
The most essential element of successful Search and Rescue Operations is competent and
confident leadership. Leadership means providing purpose, direction and motivation for
29
personnel working to accomplish difficult tasks under dangerous, stressful circumstances. In

confusing and uncertain situations, a good operational leader will:
01.04.01 - TAKE CHARGE of assigned resources.
01.04.02 - MOTIVATE personnel with a can do safely attitude.
01.04.03 - DEMONSTRATE INITIATIVE by taking action in the absence of orders.
01.04.04 - COMMUNICATE by giving specific instructions and asking for feedback.
01.04.05 - SUPERVISE at the scene of action.
01.05.00 - D U T Y
Be proficient in your job, both technically and as a leader
01.05.01 - Take charge when in charge.
01.05.02 - Adhere to professional standard operating procedures.
01.05.03 - Develop a plan to accomplish given objectives. Make sound and timely
decisions
01.05.04 - Maintain situation awareness in order to anticipate needed actions.
01.05.05 - Develop contingencies and consider consequences.
01.05.06 - Improvise within the leaders intent to handle a rapidly changing environment.
Ensure that tasks are understood, supervised and accomplished
01.05.07 - Issue clear instructions.
01.05.08 - Observe and assess actions in progress without micro-managing.
01.05.09 - Use positive feedback to modify duties, tasks, and assignments when
appropriate. Develop your subordinates for the future
01.05.10 - Clearly state expectations.
01.05.11 - Delegate those tasks that you are not required to do personally.
01.05.12 - Consider individual skill levels and developmental needs when assigning
tasks.
30
01.06.00 - R E S P E C T
Know your subordinates and look out for their well-being
01.06.01 - Put the safety of your subordinates above all other objectives.
01.06.02 - Take care of your subordinates needs.
01.06.03 - Resolve conflicts between individuals on the team. Keep your subordinates
informed
01.06.04 - Provide accurate and timely briefings.
01.06.05 - Give the reason (intent) for assignments and tasks.
01.06.06 - Make yourself available to answer questions at appropriate times. Build the
team.
01.06.07 - Conduct frequent debriefings with the team to identify lessons learned.
01.06.08 - Recognize individual and team accomplishments and reward them
appropriately.
01.06.09 - Apply disciplinary measures equally. Employ your subordinates in accordance
with their capabilities
01.06.10 - Observe human behavior as well as incident behavior.
01.06.11 - Provide early warning to subordinates of tasks they will be responsible for.
01.06.12 - Consider team experience, fatigue, and physical limitations when accepting
assignments.
01.07.00 - I N T E G R I T Y
Know yourself and seek improvement
01.07.01 - Know the strengths / weaknesses in your character and skill level.
01.07.02 - Ask questions of peers and superiors.
01.07.03 - Actively listen to feedback from subordinates. Seek responsibility and accept
responsibility for your actions
01.07.04 - Accept full responsibility for and correct poor team performance.
01.07.05 - Credit subordinates for good performance.
01.07.06 - Keep your superiors informed of your actions. Set the example
01.07.07 - Share the hazards and hardships with your subordinates.
31
01.07.08 - Dont show discouragement when facing setbacks.

01.07.09 - Choose the difficult right over the easy wrong.
01.08.00 WORKING TOGETHER TEAM AGREEMENT
Each of us individually and together as a team, bringing our skills, knowledge, energy, and
dedication, commit to our collective success for the benefit of the people we serve in Mason
County, the Mason County Sheriff's Office, our individual units as team, and the Mason County
Search and Rescue Division.
01.09.00 DISCIPLINE
Emotions often run high in emergency situations. It shall be the policy of MCSAR to resort to
formal discipline as a last resort. The following continuum shall outline proper discipline
procedures:
1. Counseling Team members operating outside of standard operating procedure shall
be counseled by a superior in their chain of command on the correct course of action.
2. Formal Intervention Team members operating outside of standard operating
procedure and having not responded to corrective action on level one of the
continuum shall be referred to a higher level on the chain of command for formal
counseling. In these instances a record of this intervention shall be kept in the
members personnel file.
3. Censure Team members found in repeated violation of standard operating
procedure may be subject to official censure at the discretion of the MCSO SAR
Coordinator. This letter of censure will be sent to the member and shall be kept in the
members personnel file.
a. Appeal Letters of censure may be appealed to the MCSO SAR Coordinator
within 30 days of formal notification. A formal request for appeal must be
received within that period.
4. Dismissal Team members found in repeated violation of standard operating
procedure shall be dismissed from MCSAR at the discretion of the MCSO SAR
Coordinator as a last resort. Dismissal is final.
This continuum is a framework for formal discipline. Steps may be jumped in exigent
circumstances. In instances of unprofessional conduct, on scene, members shall be immediately
dismissed from the mission and Formal Intervention will be pursued as part of the After Action
Review.
32
RCW 38.52.010 - Definitions.

(7) "Search and rescue" means the acts of searching for, rescuing, or recovering by means of
ground, marine, or air activity any person who becomes lost, injured, or is killed while outdoors
or as a result of a natural, technological, or human caused disaster, including instances involving
searches for downed aircraft when ground personnel are used. Nothing in this section shall affect
appropriate activity by the department of transportation under chapter 47.68 RCW.
01.10.00 - AUTHORITY (RCW 38.52.400)
Search and rescue activities Powers and duties of local officials.
(1) The chief law enforcement officer of each political subdivision shall be responsible for local
search and rescue activities. Operation of search and rescue activities shall be in accordance with
state and local operations plans adopted by the elected governing body of each local political
subdivision. These state and local plans must specify the use of the incident command system for
multiagency/multi-jurisdiction search and rescue operations. The local emergency management
director shall notify the department of all search and rescue missions. The local director of
emergency management shall work in a coordinating capacity directly supporting all search and
rescue activities in that political subdivision and in registering emergency search and rescue
workers for employee status. The chief law enforcement officer of each political subdivision may
restrict access to a specific search and rescue area to personnel authorized by him. Access shall
be restricted only for the period of time necessary to accomplish the search and rescue mission.
No unauthorized person shall interfere with a search and rescue mission.
(2) When search and rescue activities result in the discovery of a deceased person or search
and rescue workers assist in the recovery of human remains, the chief law enforcement officer of
the political subdivision shall insure compliance with chapter 68.50 RCW.
[1997 c 49 5; 1986 c 266 43; 1984 c 38 41; 1979 ex.s. c 268 4.]
Notes:
Severability -- 1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
33
CHAPTER TWO
RESOURCES
02.00.00
02.01.00 POLICY
Mason County Search and Rescue (MCSAR) shall maintain resources commensurate with their
responsibility to mount and support search and rescue operations within the jurisdiction of
Mason County. Additionally, it shall be the policy of MCSAR to support mutual aid missions
outside of the county upon request and when approved and available but shall maintain
contingency resources within the jurisdiction to respond as necessary.
02.02.00 PRIORITIES
MCSAR priorities shall be to the jurisdiction of Mason County first and in descending order as
follows:
02.02.01 Hierarchy of Priorities
1. Mason County
2. Washington State
3. National States of Emergency
4. State States of Emergency
02.03.00 MCSAR UNIT ROSTER
MCSAR shall support and maintain SAR resources including but not limited to:
1. Special Operations Rescue Team (SORT)
2. Mason County SAR Support (SAR SUPPORT)
3. Explorer SAR (ESAR)
4. SAR Dive Team (SARDT)
5. Mobile (4x4)
6. Mason County Search Dogs (MCSD)
02.04.00 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
In support of SAR missions, MCSAR may call upon the following resources:
Mason County Sheriff Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)

o MCSO is the medical Provider Unit for Search and Rescue. All requests for EMT
training will go through the Mason County Sheriff Search and Rescue
Coordinator.
o Mason County Search and Rescue EMTs are representative of all SAR units
Mason County Sheriffs Office SWAT Team

o Available to assist with any search and rescue or recovery effort. SWAT can
conduct high risk search operations that preclude the use of volunteer assets.
o SWAT can also be employed to augment volunteer units as a separate unit or
integrated member of a field team.
34
Mason County Sheriffs Office K-9 Unit

o Available to assist with any search and rescue or recovery effort. Patrol K-9
assets can conduct high risk search operations that preclude the use of volunteer
assets and critical searches where the life safety risk outweighs the potential of a
dog bite. Trailing K-9 team(s) can conduct routine search operations and high risk
operations.
Mason County Sheriffs Office Marine Enforcement Unit

o Available with multiple water assets to assist with Search, Rescue or Recovery
efforts. The Marine Enforcement Unit has the following vessels available for
various missions:
(2) 21 Triumph vessels
19 Alamar
15 Zodiac FC-470 inflatable
The Mason County Sheriffs Office Marine Enforcement Unit shall be
called out prior to any other waterborne asset and can be reached through
the MACEcom Communications Center.
02.05.00 - MCSO SEARCH AND RESCUE VEHICLES

1. The MCSOs Search and Rescue vehicle should be driven to all missions
preferably by a county deputy, but may be driven by an approved MCSAR
volunteers if no other MCSO drivers are available. Mission details may
dictate the use of the SAR Deputys patrol vehicle instead of the SAR
Response Truck.
2. Unit specific vehicles can be operated by qualified volunteers. Units MUST
provide and document training for operation of the specific vehicle.
02.06.00 UNIT CAPABILITIES
MCSAR will make every effort to allocate resources appropriately per the needs of the mission.
The unit specialties and capabilities are as follows:
02.06.01 - Mason County SAR Support (SUPPORT)
During missions, SUPPORT may provide the following duties in support of the SAR
Duty Officers and mission:
o Tracking of Passports, rosters, data, claims, medical issues or injuries of any
personnel, and resources to include people and or equipment.
o Radio transmissions which are requested by incident command.
o Monitoring Radio Frequencies in the command post for the command log.
o Maintain ICS ORG chart as well as supporting the writing of the IAP if fulfilling
the planning function.
o Mission Log/MCSO Database.
o Briefing the Incident Commander as needed.
o Logistics and Planning support for the I/C
o Base Camp management and logistical support (i.e. Food Services)
o Other Duties as assigned by the I/C.
35
02.06.01.1 SUPPORT have skill sets in the following areas:

Mapping and compass capabilities
Communication capabilities
o Ham license operators
ICS trained personnel
Organizational skills
02.06.02 Explorer Search and Rescue (ESAR)
During missions, ESAR members have versatile capabilities as ground search teams.
02.06.02.1 - ESAR members have skill sets in the following areas:
Provide ground search teams for missing or lost persons in
urban, suburban, and wilderness areas.
Wilderness rescues and evacuations
Conducting evidence searches under the direction of law
enforcement
May assist the Sheriffs Office and Mason County
Emergency Management in times of natural disaster
Aid in searches for downed aircraft
02.06.02.2 - ESAR Advanced Team
ESAR Advanced Team members have technical skill-sets in the following areas:
High angle and technical rope rescue and recovery
technical search and recovery
02.06.03 Special Rescue Team (SRT)
SRT provides members trained and experienced in prolonged pre-hospital outdoor
emergency care at or above the EMT level.
02.06.03.1 - SRT members have skill sets in the following areas:
Providing advanced medical care in remote wilderness
areas.
Wilderness rescue and evacuations
Searching for missing or lost persons in wilderness areas.
Technical Rope Rescue Operations
Swiftwater Rescue Operations
Heavy rescue and vehicle extrication
02.06.04 Search and Rescue Dive Team
The SAR Dive Team is available to conduct any water related search, rescue or recovery
effort. The SAR Dive Team also assists with water safety, providing dive operations and
swift water rescue capabilities.
02.06.04.1 SAR Dive Team members have skill sets in the following areas:
Underwater search operations
Underwater investigations
36
Evidence location and collection
Underwater and swift water rescue operations
02.06.05 - 4x4
The 4x4 team is tasked with general support requiring transport and extended travel SAR
operations.
02.06.05.1 - 4X4 team members have skill sets in the following areas:
Transportation of people, equipment and supplies during
missions.
Land navigation, knowledge of the county topography and
various map formats, including computerized mapping
systems and Global Positioning System (GPS).
Mapping of roads and terrain.
Base camp procedures, support, logistics, control and
security.
Driving skills to include vehicle recovery techniques,
towing, driving under all road and weather conditions,
vehicle maintenance and safety.
Helibase and Helispot (Landing Zone) (helicopter) set-up,
control and safety.
Search strategies to include the fundamentals in road
searching, urban searching, grid searching, crime scene and
basic principles of other MCSAR unit search techniques.
Mission site support includes road searches, containment,
road-blocking, traffic control/direction and dog/search team
escort.
Interviews to collect information and be able to interview
witnesses.
Many vehicles are equipped with multifunction radio
equipment allowing communications with other units or
agencies, better facilitating radio operations. Unit members
can conveniently set up radio relay locations on high
ground in support of search teams that are beyond direct
radio communication to base camp.
02.06.06 - Mason County Search Dogs MCSD
MCSD provides K-9 search teams to assist MCSO in locating missing persons in urban,
suburban and wilderness areas.
02.06.06.1 - MCSD may train in several disciplines:
Air scent teams are trained to search a general area to
locate a person in that area.
Trailing teams are trained to follow the scent of a specific
person.
Cadaver teams are trained to locate the remains of deceased
humans.
37
Water teams are trained to locate deceased humans under

water.
MCSD also provides teams to assist with other missions
where MCSO needs the assistance of trained volunteers.
MCSD is able to provide certified teams to other counties
in Washington State for assistance with locating missing
persons.
02.07.00 RESPONSE CAPABILITIES

MCSAR is equipped to respond the following types of SAR Operations:
Search - looking for a person(s) without a known location. May have

PLS as starting point.
Rescue - people needing immediate assistance (medical, broken

equipment, not properly equipped, etc.).
Recovery - removal of human remains from a known location.
Evidence Search - evidence of human remains or artifacts related to a

criminal event in which the suspect is either in custody or confirmed to
be out of the area.
Cadaver Search - a deceased person in a predetermined search area.
Water Search - a missing person in a body of water.
Disaster - a natural/man made event where MCSAR resources may

assist Mason County Emergency Management (Earthquakes, Flooding,
Fires)
Runaways - will be carefully screened to determine the circumstances

surrounding their missing status. The age, medical condition and
mental capacity will be taken into consideration.
Suicides - The Mason County Sheriffs Office will not use volunteer
resources in the search for suicidal persons per Manual Section
11.00.095. The Mason County Sheriffs SWAT Team can be deployed
for suicides and other high risk search operations.
02.08.00 TRAINING
All MCSAR personnel must maintain training requirements per this section. Members out of
WAC Compliance may not deploy to missions without specific authorization.
02.08.01 - WAC 118.04 Requirements:
All members responding to a Search and Rescue Mission must be WAC current. The
following are the MCSO requirements to satisfy WAC.
First Aid/CPR/BBP training required every two years regardless of
what the card expiration states.
Helicopter Safety training required once every two years
38
Crime Scene training is required once every three years with mission
renewal credit going to participants who take part in evidence searches
at least once every three years.
Map and Compass training is required every three years with mission
renewal credit going to participants who take part in at least one SAR
mission every three years.
SAR Survival training is required every three years with mission
renewal credit going to participants who take part in at least one SAR
SAR Techniques training is required every three years with mission
renewal credit going to participants who take part in at lease one SAR
02.08.02 - Mason County Sheriffs Office requirements:

The additional training requirements imposed by the Sheriffs Office are as follows:
These Courses that must be successfully completed by field rated personnel*.
Field personnel must be able to demonstrate proficiency in these areas.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Land Navigation
Survival
Human Remains
Communications
Legal
Crime Scene
Evidence Search
Tactics and Techniques
The following courses that are only required once:

o CISM
o Vehicle/24-48hr Pack Equipment*
All of these requirements must be met in addition to unit specific training for SAR
personnel to be qualified to go into the field on a mission. All required courses
will be taught in accordance with an approved curriculum.
* Specialized teams may be relieved of some requirements based on the nature of
their duties see Appendix A
02.08.03 - Federally Mandated Courses:

ICS 100 and ICS 700 on line courses must be completed by all members of Mason
County Search and Rescue. DEM cards will not be issued to new members until this
training has been completed. Certificates shall be sent to the SAR Coordinator upon
completion of the course.
** ICS 100 and 700 are available through FEMA in distance learning format
39
CHAPTER THREE
C O M M U N I C ATI O N
03.00.00
03.01.00 - POLICY
Communication is the cornerstone of safe and efficient operations in emergency situations.
Without proper communications efforts are diffuse and ineffective and information critical to the
mission is lost. A breakdown in communication is often the root cause of critical incident
scenarios. It shall be the policy of MCSAR to maintain proper communication protocols in all
areas of operation and especially during missions.
03.02.00 COMMUNICATION RESPONSIBILITIES
All emergency workers have five communication responsibilities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Brief others as needed

Debrief your actions
Communicate hazards to others
Acknowledge messages
Ask if you dont know
03.02.01 Command Communications

It is the responsibility of command and leadership staff, at every level, to provide
complete briefings. Briefings must include a clearly stated Leaders Intent.
Task = What is to be done

Purpose = Why it is to be done
End State = How it should look when done
03.02.02 TACTICAL COMMUNICATION

Many techniques may be employed on a mission to maintain command and
control as well as coordination of forces. MCSAR shall employ the methods as follows:
03.02.02.1 RADIO COMMUNICATION
There are several basic radio communication systems that can be used on SAR
missions: The IC will determine the primary and secondary frequencies to
be used on the SAR mission.
OSCCR This will typically be the primary operations frequency during
SAR missions
LERN This frequency will be employed during longer range SAR
missions as it is a repeated frequency
State SAR 155.160 MHz is to be used when out of county resources are
involved in the mission. The Command Post must monitor this frequency
if out of county resources are being used.
Family Radio Service The FRS system may be used in base camp as an
Inter communication device between the Unit O/Ls and the SAR Deputies.
40
each
Other radio frequencies that are available or licensed to specific units will
be used at the discretion of the Incident Commander. If a unit wishes to
use their own internal frequency, the unit must designate a
communications person to relay information to and from the Command
Post.
** Unit command vehicles use very powerful radios. In order to avoid desense (i.e. overloading of the receivers) it is recommended separating
command vehicle by 75 feet. **
03.02.03 TACTICAL DESIGNATIONS (CALLSIGNS)
Establish Tactical Call Signs for specific functions associated with the
specific Mission for use by all SAR personnel.
Command Post or mission name Command is where the Incident

Commander is located. Differing Units will be referred to following the
approved ICS terminology. (See attachment of the ICS language agreed
to by Unit Leaders and MCSO)
Units with specific search function may use radio calls with a Call Sign
based on their function (i.e. Saddle Mountain Relay, North Fork
Transport)
** Use Non-Tactical Call Signs when contact is desired with a specific person.
03.03.00 RADIO COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL

These are the recommended guidelines intended to provide effective communication
between field teams, base camp and other MCSAR personnel. Radios may be either SAR
radios or amateur (ham) radios. (Follow FCC/ WA St Medical Rules for allowed on
radio frequencies)
03.03.01 - Radio Protocol on MC Frequencies
1. Keep conversations brief, but slow.
2. Listen before keying mike.
3. Identify yourself and unit when calling
4. State Channel (i.e. F2 or F3 etc.).
5. Use Plain English.
6. Use Phonetics if you really must spell something out.
03.03.02 - Radio protocol on Amateur Frequencies
1. Keep conversations brief, but slow.
3. Follow Amateur Frequency use requirements
4. State Frequency (i.e. 511 or 644, etc.) at the end of your initial
transmission
5. Use Plain English.
6. Use Phonetics if you really must spell something out.
41
03.03.03 - Radio Protocol with Command Post

2. Say Command Post, and then your call sign followed by Frequency or
Channel.
3. May need to repeat every sixty seconds, if no answer
4. Please do not call Command Post for directions to Base Camp or other
unit O/L functional queries.
5. Enunciate messages clearly and slowly as though someone was writing
them down.
03.03.04 - Radio Protocol with Unit Base
2. Say unit Base (i.e. 4x4 Base), then your call sign, followed by
Frequency or Channel.
3. May need to repeat every sixty seconds, if no answer.
4. Call your unit O/L for directions to Search Base or other unit functional
queries.
5. Enunciate messages clearly and slowly as though someone was writing
them down.
03.03.05 - Radio Protocol in the Command Post
1. Turn off or use earphone with handheld radios before coming into command post.
2. Dont transmit with handheld radios or personal cell phones inside
command post.
3. Only unit O/Ls & MCSO personnel should be in command post.
4. Keep conversations soft and brief.
03.03.06 - Radio Protocol in Base
1. Park Unit vans as far apart as possible (75-foot minimum) to reduce desensing of radios.
2. If you know one of the unit radio operators is not available, please
handle the call and get a message to them.
3. Coordinate field communications frequencies with Command Post
before sending teams into the field.
4. If a field team needs communications equipment send your unit O/L to
the Command Post.
5. Use Tactical call signs.
03.03.07 - Radio Communication Pro-Words. Pro-words are radio communication
action words. They are shorthand used for clear and concise communication.
Affirmative
Break, or Break-Break
Clear
Correction
Yes
Used to interrupt a communication in progress. Break-Break
-Break also indicates an emergency.
End of communication and continuing to monitor this channel
(frequency). No answer is expected.
The previous communication was incorrect. Follow Talk with
42
Decimal
Go ahead
How copy?
I say again
Monitoring
Negative
Off the air
Over
Ready to copy?
Received
Relay
Roger
Say again
Speak slower
Spelled
Standby
This is (call)
Understood
Will comply
the corrected information.

Decimal point (in a number).
Send the next part of your message.
Do you understand my communication?
I will repeat my last words (message).
Will continue to listen to this channel (frequency).
No
No longer monitoring this channel.
End of transmission, please reply.
Are you ready to copy my message?
Message was received correctly.
Send a received message to another station.
OK, understood, will comply.
Repeat the last communication.
From now on, speak at a slower pace.
The previous word will be spelled letter by letter, often using the
phonetic alphabet.
Wait for further communication. Do not transmit until requested.
Identify yourself with your tactical call sign.
Message received and under
Will comply with instructions.
03.03.08 - Phonetic Alphabet-International NATO/Military/Ham alphabet:

A:
B:
C:
D:
E:
F:
G:
H:
I:
J:
K:
L:
M:
ALPHA
BRAVO
CHARLIE
DELTA
ECHO
FOXTROT
GOLF
HOTEL
INDIA
JULIETTE
KILO
LIMA
MIKE
N:
O:
P:
Q:
R:
S:
T:
U:
V:
W:
X:
Y:
Z:
NOVEMBER
OSCAR
PAPA
QUEBEC
ROMEO
SIERRA
TANGO
UNIFORM
VICTOR
WHISKEY
X-RAY
YANKEE
ZULU
43
44
CHAPTER FOUR
INITIAL RESPONSE
04.00.00
04.01.00 - POLICY
The Mason County Sheriffs Office Communication Center notifies the MCSOs SAR
Coordinator of a potential search and rescue mission or evidence search. MCSOs SAR
Coordinator shall determine urgency of the search and mobilize appropriate SAR resources.
MCSOs SAR Deputy shall collect information and make additional contact with Reporting
Party (RP) and/or Officers on scene. The SAR Duty Deputy shall notify the SAR Coordinator of
the potential mission and obtain overtime approval if applicable. Additionally, MCSOs SAR
Deputy shall identify a command location.
04.02.00 URGENCY
MCSOs SAR Duty Officer shall determine the urgency of the mission based upon the following
criteria and will notify MCSAR units immediately.
Subject is very young or very old

Subject is known or suspected to be in need of medical attention
Subject is alone
Subject is inexperienced
Weather is in-climate or forecasted to be
Subject is poorly equipped
Known terrain hazards exist in search area
04.03.00 MISSION TYPE

The SAR Duty Officer will determine the type of mission: Search, Rescue, or Recovery. In
requesting appropriate resources the SAR Duty Officer will consider the components of the
mission: Wilderness or urban terrain, technical or non-technical.
04.04.00 SECONDARY SAR DEPUTY
The Lead SAR Deputy will call out a second SAR Deputy when necessary following the SAR
Deputy call out procedures. The Lead SAR Deputy will make a determination as to which SAR
Deputy will respond to the command post location with the command van and who will handle
the callout and coordination of resources.
04.05.00 EMD NOTIFICATION
The Lead SAR Deputy will call the County DEM Duty Officer to receive a State Mission
number and will share that number with the responding SAR volunteers before they respond to
the mission. This number should be included in the SAR call out information.
04.06.00 COMMAND POST DESIGNATION
MCSOs SAR Deputy(ies) shall establish a command post. The location shall be conducive to
the nature and location of the mission.
CHAPTER FIVE
45
MISSION RESPONSE
05.00.00
05.01.00 POLICY
The Incident Commander (IC) shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the
mission. The IC will oversee the strategic operation and delegation or responsibility for the
incident. Furthermore, the IC will ensure all forces are accounted for in the field.
05.02.00 - Resource Deployment
The Lead SAR Deputy will identify the resources necessary for the mission. The SAR Duty
Officer shall call Mason County DEM to request additional specialty resources, to include out of
County units, air support, technical support, or resources to supplement existing ones on scene.
** State DEM, upon receiving the request, will contact outside counties and check
availability. The available County resource will contact the Lead SAR Deputy for details
related to the mission. **
05.02.01 Resources responding to the mission must:
Have their issued Emergency Worker Identification in hand.
Be WAC current for either Support or Field Deployment by their home
agency
Have proper clothing and equipment for mission and weather conditions.
Be mentally and physically able to perform mission duties
Not show any signs of intoxication or lingering effects of
alcohol/prescription drugs.
05.03.00 GATHERING INFORMATION
The IC shall gather all pertinent information essential to the management of the incident.
05.03.01 Isolating the RP
If the Reporting Party (RP) is still at the scene, the Lead SAR Deputy shall assign
personnel to accompany the RP to the pre-determined Command Location. The Lead
SAR Deputy will either interview, or assign somebody to interview the Reporting Party
to obtain any updated information or change of status information on the Subject. The
interview shall include whether there are any other caregivers, doctors or family that may
provide additional information regarding the Subject. The RP shall stay at the scene until
they are no longer needed.
05.03.02 - Subject Information
Complete the Lost Person Questionnaire, including Additional Questions for the
Reporting Party
Obtain a recent photograph of the subject.
From family members
WACIC/NCIC
On-line resource such as Google, Facebook, MySpace, etc.
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Establish subjects physical condition for rescue.

Contain Subjects vehicle with an adequate clear zone on all sides.
Establish the Subjects point last seen or last known point.
Start a timeline of events
Determine the Subjects shoe type and footprint
Identify and protect a scent article from a search subject.
Identify items touched only by the subject i.e.: sole of shoe, undergarment. Protect
the item from any contaminants.
05.03.03 - Background Investigation
The mission will dictate the necessity of having additional background information
regarding the circumstances of the subjects disappearance.
Verify if subject is in local Hospitals (Harborview, Childrens, Family Doctor, Clinic,
Detox. centers, etc.)
Contact Metro transit to check with bus drivers on routes in question or to see if they
have bus pass records.
Contact Taxi companies to see if their records show a fare matching the subjects
description or in the subjects general area
Contact adjacent Law Enforcement Agencies for activity involving the subject.
Contact the adjacent Fire Districts (Medic responses) for activity involving the
subject.
Check credit card companies for activity on the subjects credit cards.
Contact friends, co-workers, favorite hangouts, family, etc.
Check cell phone records and call logs for activity (may need subpoena)
Check on-line activity to include e-mail accounts.
05.04.00 HASTY TEAMS
The IC or designee may deploy hasty teams as initial response or precursor to a larger search
effort. Hasty teams should be comprised of more experienced search members and may be
recalled or retasked on implementation of the full mission plan.
05.04.00 INCIDENT COMMAND
It is the policy of the Mason County Sheriffs Office to use the Incident Command System for all
Search & Rescue Missions. An Incident Commander (IC) will be designated on every mission.
47
The IC will have the authority to assign additional positions under the ICS structure as dictated
by the mission.
05.04.01 Essential Positions
The Incident Commander shall consider the following positions essential to each and
every SAR mission:
Safety Officer - Responsible for ensuring personnel and mission safety.
Also has authority to shut down the mission.
Resource Staging Officer - Responsible for Mission Rosters and checking
of credentials. Also ensuring deployable resources are contained within the
staging area.
Public Information Officer/Media Information Officer - PIO/MIOMason County Sheriffs Office personnel assigned as liaison with the
media.
Family Liaison - The point of contact for friends and family, providing
updated information in a timely manner. All family members will be
identified with family badge to be visible while on scene.
Scribe - Assigned to Incident Commander. Responsible for documentation
of events as they unfold; to include data entry and field notes.
Helispot Manager - Assigned to locate, set up and manage a potential
helicopter landing spot at or near the Command Location if the mission
dictates the need for aviation assets.
48
05.04.01.1 STANDARD ORG CHART
Incident Commander
Secondary Duty
Officer
Safety
Dep. IC
PIO
Planning
LE / Family Liaison
Logistics
Operations
GROUP
GROUP
GROUP
05.04.02 Operational Period

The Incident Commander shall define the operation period as well as establishing relief
personnel. The operational period shall not exceed 12 hours.
05.04.01 - MISSION OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES:
Search Mission Planning after Initial Deployment of Hasty Teams:
05.04.01.1 - Planning meetings occur with the Plans Chief and appropriate
experienced people on scene. (The Planning Staff can be mobilized, if
warranted.)
The first meeting is held within 2 hours of the start of the mission
Subsequent meetings at regular intervals, not to exceed 4 hours
05.04.01.2 - Identify search areas based on subject profile and terrain
conditions
Past Searches in the area
Subject Categories
Similar missions
Potential subject travel distances
05.04.01.3 - Prioritize search areas
Planning with experienced personnel using tools.
Consider type and quantity of resources available
49
05.04.01.4 - Use available computer programs for planning

Sector Ladders
Subject Profiles
Historical Data
05.04.01.5 - Establish Search Plans
Determine future search assignments for the different resource types.
Determine if areas should be re-searched or the search area should be
expanded.
05.04.01.6 - Considerations
How thoroughly have the areas been searched?
Is it possible that the subjects condition has changed (asleep to awake,
conscious to unconscious, mobile to immobile)?
Are there other feasible areas to be searched before survivability decreases
further?
Considering the cumulative clues found, where do they point?
Are you likely to uncover more or different clues if you re-search an area
with a different resource?
Prepare packets to give to search teams that include a map and an
assignment description.
Develop and track Probability of Detection (POD) values for areas searched
Incorporate POD values for completed assignments into plans
05.04.01.7 - Establish Future Assignments
Determine resources required & request these resources
Brief incoming management team to transfer mission information
Confirm field teams and management are being relieved and are taking
rest periods
05.04.01.8 Administration
MCSO policy and State Law mandate accurate record keeping throughout the
mission. For missions lasting longer than the first operational period or nonemergency missions, appropriate NIMS documentation shall be completed prior
to the next operational period. An Incident Action Plan (IAP) shall meet the
minimum requirement. Other essential administrative forms include:
Rosters
MCSAR Database Entries
Incident Action Plan (IAP) ICS Form

Contains strategic goals, tactical objectives, and support activities
for the incident that can be easily communicated. The IAP may be
50
oral for small operations and should be written for large

operations. This is a living document and will be continually
updated and expanded upon throughout the duration of the
operational periods.
The Planning Chief is responsible for writing and updating the
IAP.
** The Incident Commander must approve all Operational Plans prior to implementation.
05.05.00 INCIDENT COMMAND LOGISTICS
05.05.01 Incident Command Post (ICP) Set-Up
Choose appropriate parking location for Mission Vehicles. Consider the following:
Ground Surface should be level and compact
Ingress/Egress for all vehicles to include responding
Emergency vehicles.
Clearance around SAR van should be adequate for Radio
antennas, generator and storage compartment access.
Terrain features should be considered as they may interfere
with radio communications.
Consider spacing mission vehicles to provide for adequate
radio communications.
05.05.02 - Vehicle Staging Areas
Parking areas should be taken into consideration for the following types of vehicles:
Horse trailers and towing vehicles
Emergency Vehicles to include Fire apparatus and Ambulance
4x4 Vehicles to allow for frequent movement
Helispot
Emergency Worker Vehicles
05.05.03 - Personnel Briefing
A briefing shall be given at the beginning of every operational period and to all incoming
resources by the IC or a designee. NIMS form, ICS 202 shall be sufficient to replace a
personal briefing. The following information should be included in the briefing:
Weather conditions
Safety message
Identification of Medical Officer
Overall Scope of Mission
Operational Period
Radio Communications Frequencies
Subject information
05.05.04 After Action Review (AAR)
An AAR shall be conducted to debrief the incident at the end of each operational period,
conclusion of the search or as necessary.
51
52
05.05.05 - Logistics Locations

Facilities, Services and Materials in support of the mission to include the following:
1. Media Staging Area Locate Media area away from direct access to volunteers,
family members and Incident Command.
Scheduled Media briefings on a regular basis.
All media contact shall be approved by the MCSO Media
Relations Officer as well as the Incident Commander.
2. Family Staging Area Locate away from the operations area if possible.
A liaison shall be assigned on all missions.
Be considerate of proximity to radio transmissions as well as
casual conversation between volunteers or officers.
If possible, limit visibility to any body recovery.
All family members and friends shall be identified with badges.
Update family members with mission progress on a regular
basis, with predetermined briefing times and location.
3. MealsEmergency Workers responding to a mission are required to respond with a
24-48 hr backpack to include their own meals.
MCSO may choose to supplement meals
Consider weather and mission conditions when making meal
selections.
-
The following may be used for feeding personnel on a SAR mission:

Mason County SAR Support
Red Cross 206-323-2345
MREs
Food/Snacks contained in the Command Post are for Mason
County SAR Deputies.
4. MedicalThe nature and type of mission will determine the need for a Medical Staging
Area. If necessary, consider the following:
Advanced Life Support (ALS) EMS
Basic Life Support (BLS) Can use on-scene medically trained
personnel
Locate an area near Operations where medically trained
personnel are able to set up and provide medical aid and care
for all injured or ill personnel.
05.05.0 - Securing the Search Area
RCW 38.52 gives the Mason County Sheriffs Office the responsibility and authority
over all Search and Rescue Missions within Mason County. The Incident Commander
53
shall restrict access to the defined search area and command location. SAR units,
primarily 4x4, will be assigned this security detail.
05.05.06.1 Vehicle Security
The Incident Commander or designee will attempt to locate and identify any
and all vehicles contained within the search area that are associated with the
Subject(s).
A visual examination of the vehicle shall be done to look for
clues or evidence relevant to the investigation.
Secure the vehicle as evidence by preserving any tracks or
scent articles that may be on, in or around the vehicle. Entry
into the vehicle shall be made by a Mason County Sheriff
Deputy, with adherence to Department Policy.
05.05.06.2 Perimeter Security
The Incident Commander or designee will identify perimeter locations within
the general search area to post containment. The following may be used as
containment:
Personnel
Vehicles
Bulletins, Posters
Gates or Barriers (natural or man-made)
String/lines
05.05.06.3 - Communications
Primary communications: To be identified by the Incident
Commander; a primary frequency to be used during the course
of a mission. Communications between the command post/IC
and
Secondary communications: pertains to communications
between Branch Directors/OLs and units in the field.
Alternate/Back up communications: The incident
commander, with assistance from staff, will identify alternate
frequencies should disruption or failure in the service occur.
05.05.06.4 - Communications Operations
Mission communications shall be centralized in the ICP. All communications
with all teams shall route through the ICP. Individual group or team leaders
may use itinerant frequencies for coordination or talk-about operations but
all official and tactical communications will come from the ICP location or an
IC designee. Some communications considerations include:
When setting up multiple communication vehicles within the

designated command area, make sure vehicles are spaced
adequately to reduce desensing of radios.
If you are monitoring more than one frequency offer assistance
if you notice someone is not answering their call sign.
54
Coordinate field communications frequencies with command

post prior to sending teams into the field.
See the command post for distribution of extra radios (if
available)
The incident commander, or his/her designee, has authority to
override any communications directive given by any member
at any time.
05.06.00 RESOURCE DEPLOYMENT

This task is the responsibility of the Team leader assigned to each SAR Unit. Resources may
only be deployed after full consideration of all mission parameters and establishing NIMS
protocols. The following shall be considered when assigning members to teams
Span of control - recommended team size of 3-7 members
Equipment - suitable for mission objective
WAC Qualifications - must be met
Experience Level - Novices should be teamed with
experienced personnel.
Subject Information - Briefing of all team members prior to
field deployment.
Maps of Search Area - maps should be available to all team
members.
Radios - Radio communications and terminology shall be in
accordance with ICS as determined by MCSO. Portable radios
should be available to all team members (if available).
Rosters - All members shall sign appropriate roster(s) prior to
field deployment.
Fitness Level - Team members are responsible for determining
their own physical capabilities.
55
CHAPTER SIX
S P E C I A L O P E R ATI O N S
06.00.00
06.01.00 POLICY
Every mission is unique. It shall be the judgment of the Incident Commander and Chain of
Command of Mason County Sheriffs Office to employ special resources as defined in this
section. Those operations are conducted under this section and in conjunction with those units
individual operational procedures.
06.02.00 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The type or nature of the mission may require the use of outside, specialty or unique resources. A
request for any additional resources outside of Mason County shall go through the State
Department of Emergency Management (DEM) via Mason County DEM. Units from assisting
counties may be incorporated into the MCSAR Unit of that discipline i.e.; Kitsap ESAR
Volunteers may be assigned to Mason County ESAR Teams.
Fire Department personnel may be first responders and may have been
deployed in to the field as hasty teams by their agency. The MCSO Incident
Commander shall set up Unified Command with the IC for the Fire
Department.
Unified Incident Command (UIC) - A small group of managers or
supervisors from different agencies/disciplines that act and make
decisions as the Incident Leaders - a group that replaces the IC.
RCW 38.53 defines the responsibility of Search and Rescue.
United States Forest Service - If the mission is within Forest Service

boundaries, the Lead SAR Deputy shall notify the Forest Service as soon as
possible. This can be conducted through the Communications Center
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - If the mission is within DNR

property, the SAR Deputy shall notify DNR as soon as possible. This can be
conducted through the Communications Center.
Media Representatives - The media may be called upon to offer assistance at

the discretion of the SAR Deputy.
Civilians may be assigned to search teams dependent upon their capability

and knowledge of search area, to be determined by the Incident Commander.
Civilians must sign in prior to entering the field and sign out before
being released.
The Incident Commander or designee shall obtain complete contact
information from the civilian in order to designate them as a temporary
emergency worker.
56
Civilians may be deployed into field when accompanied by a trained

volunteer.
Washington State Department of Transportation, Aviation Division- DOT

Aviation has responsibility for searching for downed or missing aircraft.
It is the responsibility of the SAR Deputy to notify DOT upon learning of any
downed or missing aircraft. MCSO SAR will likely be notified of these
missions and may be asked to assist with ground resources.
MC SAR Support and/or the Red Cross may provide meals for searchers
and subjects family, dependent upon the mission.
06.03.00 MCSO SPECIAL RESOURCES

06.03.01.8 - Airlift Northwest Helicopter Procedures - Airlift NW is the
primary medical evacuation helicopter in Mason County. Airlift NW will not
respond to a wilderness rescue. The following requirements must be met:
Approved Landing area:
Pavement
No obstructions
100 x 100
Critically ill or injured patient requiring care at a facility outside of the
local area when transport times are likely to be excessive
A medic unit must be dispatched and in consultation with Airlift NW
prior to requesting the helicopter.
One patient per helicopter.
06.03.01.9 - Helispots/Landing Zones - A helicopter landing zone or helispot
shall be designated and set up on any SAR mission when there is a need for the
aircraft to land. Mason County SAR 4x4 personnel are the primary resource for
setting up and managing helispots. The following shall be considered when
setting up a helispot or landing zone:
An area free of obstructions approximately 100 feet by 100
feet. For example, an area about the size of of a football
field square. Examples of obstructions and hazards:
Wires or power lines
Trees
Buildings
Light posts
Towers
Signs
Ground Surface
Pavement/cement
Grassy field
Dirt or gravel lot
Relatively flat- Slope less than 10 degrees
57
Special Considerations: Rotor wash from the helicopter may

affect conditions at the LZ/helispot
Wind speed and direction-If possible, use some
type of wind direction indicator ie; flagging
tape, smoke, windsock or LZ manager with
back to wind on helo approach
Visibility
Debris in/around area
Dirt, snow, or small gravel
People, vehicles and property
Animals
** The Helispot Manager shall control ingress/egress to the aircraft at the crew chief or
pilots direction.**
06.03.01.10 - Outside Agency Requests for Aviation Resources Air resources
are requested through the State DEM via Mason County DEM. The following are
available aviation resources that may be able to respond. Local resources are
given first right of refusal.
King County Sheriffs Office
o UH-1H Huey- with a 600lb hoist, Night Vision, staffed
with a crew of 5 for rescue. Cabin room for 2 additional
litters.
o Bell 407- FLIR, Night Vision, Moving Map, Searchlight,
Microwave Video Downlink, Avalanche Receiving Unit,
ELT, PLB and Project Lifesaver. Staffed with a crew of 2
ASU pilots and room in the cabin for 5 passengers or 2
passengers and 1 rescue litter.
Snohomish County Sheriffs Office
oMD-500
oUH-1H with Rescue Hoist
Washington State Patrol
oFixed Wing only
U.S. Navy-Whidbey Island (available through AFRCC)
o(2) MH-60S aircraft
oOverland/overwater capable
oHigh altitude/mountain specialty
oACLS and advanced Trauma equipped
o200 hoist/250 rappel capability
oNight/NVG capable
U.S. Coast Guard
06.04.00 MARINE UNIT OPERATIONS
The Mason County Sheriffs Office Marine Unit is the primary responder for any search, rescue
or recovery missions on any un-navigable waters within Mason County. Search & Rescue Diver
s and ground personnel may be called upon to provide ground search and technical assistance.
58
59
06.06.00 - MEDICAL PROTOCOLS

The Mason County Sheriffs Office adheres to the policies and procedures of Mason County
Emergency Medical Services (MCEMS). MCSO sponsored EMTs are authorized to practice
care only in Mason County or during State recognized missions, per Washington State Protocols
and Mason County BLS patient Care Guidelines.
06.06.01- Exposure Control Plan - Mason County Search & Rescue members shall
follow the Mason County Sheriffs Office Exposure Control Plan.
MCSO WAC requirements for First Aid, Blood Borne Pathogens (BBP) and CPR- *All
EMTs are given credit for First Aid, BBP and CPR for the duration of their EMT
certification.
o CPR- Renewal every 2 years
o First Aid/Blood Borne Pathogens-Renewal every 2 years
Emergency Medical Technician Sponsorships.

o The MCSO SAR Coordinator is the EMS Agency Supervisor and
Medical Training Officer for Mason County Search & Rescue.
o All EMTs sponsored under the Mason County Sheriffs Office are
required to maintain currency on annual Competency Based Training
(CBTs). Failure to do so may result in termination of MCSOs
sponsorship of your EMT certification.
06.06.02 - Medical Incident Report Form (MIRF) - shall be completed for each
patient who receives an evaluation from a SAR member per the Mason County BLS
Patient Care Guidelines.
During a mission one MIRF will be completed per patient by the SAR
member responsible for providing primary patient care.
For a Mass Casualty Incident one form may be completed for the entire
incident and per individual patient.
The MIRF must be turned into the I/C during the mission or within
24hrs (or next business day if on a weekend or holiday) to the MCSO
SAR Coordinator.
60
CHAPTER SEVEN
MISSION MANAGEMENT AND OVERSIGHT

07.00.00
07.01.00 POLICY
It shall be the policy of MCSAR to fully staff an incident until completion. Minimal staffing
must include command staff (e.g. IC and designees). No mission may continue without an IC.
07.02.00 PLANNING
Following initiation of the days operational period, briefing and team deployment the IC team
will convene to plan for the next operational period. Incident Action Plans for the next
consecutive operational period will be complete as soon as possible.
07.03.00 ADMINISTRATIVE STAFFING
ICP staffing shall be sufficient to manage communication and recording, as well as support of the
IC team.
07.04.00 TERMINATION OF COMMAND
ICP staffing shall remain in place until all resources have been recovered from the field.
61
CHAPTER EIGNT
M I S S I O N D E M O B I L I Z ATI O N
08.00.00
08.01.00 POLICY
It is the policy of MCSAR not to terminate command until all personnel are accounted for.
Mission operations will continue until all team members are or have been recorded as present at
the ICP. Following accountability, it shall be the responsibility of the IC to oversee security of
the scene and return of all resources to service. Finally, the IC or a designee shall contact the
County DEM to close the mission.
08.02.00 FIELD PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY
Ensure all field personnel have returned to base and signed out on the roster prior to securing
scene. All original paperwork shall be submitted to the I/C prior to securing the scene all data
entries in the computer shall be saved. Additionally:
The I/C or designee will call the County DEM to advise the end of the
mission. The I/C will request that County DEM allow appropriate drive time
home by mission participants prior to closing out the mission.
Mission participants will be screened to insure they are mentally and
physically capable to drive home before being released from command base.
All equipment used on the mission shall be accounted for and inventoried
prior to securing the mission.
08.03.00 - CLAIMS
The I/C or designee shall inquire of each mission participant whether they
sustained an injury or property damage/loss prior to releasing them from the
mission.
If a SAR member becomes injured during the course of a mission the IC shall be
notified immediately.
The injury shall be documented in the mission paperwork or database entry.
The State DEM claim form shall be filled out by the I/C if the claim is in regards
to an injury and the injured emergency worker is being transported for medical
treatment. If the claim is for property damage or lost equipment, the emergency
worker reporting the damaged or lost equipment may fill out the claim and submit
it to the attention of the SAR Coordinator. All claim forms may be found at the
on line web site of http://www.emd.wa.gov/ The user may click on the link titled
Search and Rescue and then click on the link titled FORMS.
All claims will be processed by the SAR Coordinator in a timely manner. All
claimants are encouraged to make and retain copies of their claim paperwork in
the event the information is misplaced.
Claims for medical expenses must be filed within one year of the date of the
injury.
Claims for property expenses must be filed within three years of the date of the
incident.
08.04.00 - AFTER ACTION REPORT
62
The IC or designee shall conduct a mission briefing of all personnel before securing the scene.
The briefing will cover the following:
1. General description of the area covered
2. Noted safety hazards
3. Any updated pertinent information regarding a change of status for the
mission.
4. Inquiry as to any injuries, missing or damaged property
5. CISM discussion will occur amongst Branch Directors based upon the
nature of mission
The IC or designee will collect any outstanding paperwork from mission
participants before securing from the scene.
The IC or designee, will distribute the Passport emergency worker cards to
each of the participating members prior to their securing of the scene.
08.05.00 MISSION SUSPENSION OR DEACTIVATION
The decision to suspend a mission shall be made by the IC with input and direction from the
MCSO command staff as deemed necessary. Factors to consider in this decision would be the
following:
1. Lack of clues
2. Safety Hazards are too extreme to continue with the mission.
3. All search assignments have been completed without any additional
clues being produced.
4. Lack of resources to complete the search
All decisions to suspend or deactivate a mission will be shared with the
designated family liaison, as appointed under the ICS structure.
All decisions to suspend or deactivate a mission will be shared with the
MCSO media point of contact.
The decision to suspend or deactivate a mission will also be shared with State
EMD.
63

Search and Rescue Division
Volunteer Unit Standards
(Adapted from the WA State Search and Rescue Volunteer Advisory Council out of county standards)
All Search and Rescue Unit Volunteers are subject to the following
qualifications to be eligible for call out.
Ground Unit Standards
I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for volunteer Ground SAR personnel

which insure the safety of the searchers and limit the liability of the
SAR management.
II. SCOPE:
These minimum standards are limited to conventional Ground SAR

operations for all Mason County Ground SAR units whose members
wish to be qualified for missions
III. LEADERSHIP/ORGANIZATION:
All organizations providing personnel for Basic and Advanced teams
for missions shall have a procedure in place for ensuring personnel
meet qualifications as stated in the preface.
IV. LEVELS OF SEARCHERS CAPABILITIES:
64
Requesting agencies need to be specific regarding the level of competency needed to accomplish the task.
Specific numbers of teams and team size need to be specified in the request.
1. FIELD SUPPORT PERSONNEL:

Physically capable of performing their job and have
adequate
training to perform their assigned task within
the base of
operations.
2. BASIC TRAINING:
Capable of searching urban settings, where normal urban
services
are readily available and will not have to stay
our overnight. Teams
at this level may have from 3 to 8
members with a leader.
3. INTERMEDIATE TRAINING:
Capable of working in a wilderness setting, staying out
overnight,
under
moderate terrain and weather
conditions. Teams at this level
may have from 3 to
5
members with qualified leadership.
4. ADVANCED TRAINING:
Capable of working in wilderness settings with weather
and terrain
extremes. Does not include technical rescue
situations. Teams
at this level may have from 3 to 5
members with a qualified leader.
65
V. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:
66
A. All search and rescue volunteers available for missions shall:
1) Meet both the qualifications as stated in WAC 118-04 and the standards
set forth in this document. (Novice class search and rescue volunteers
will normally not be deployed out of their home jurisdiction.)
2) Have, when deployed, sufficient amounts of water, food, personal
equipment and clothing, and shelter to self sufficient in the specified
environment for a minimum of 24 hours.
3) Have a basic knowledge of:
a. Their organization's structure and operating procedures
b. Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD)
4) Have a working knowledge of The Incident Command System (ICS) to

include:
(1) Chain of command
(2) Check in procedures upon arrival at search base
(3) Accountability systems
(4) Briefing/Debriefing
(5) Demobilization procedures
(6) Dealing with subject's family and friends
(7) Media relations
(8) Legal aspects of search and rescue in Washington State
B. Search and Rescue volunteer units whose members want to be available for missions shall:
1) Maintain training records for members documenting their current

qualifications
2) Establish a procedure for call out of personnel
3) Establish leadership criteria and training
4) Respond with a unit liaison able to coordinate operations with the
requesting agency, who has a working knowledge of:
a. The Incident Command System (ICS)
b. Search and rescue strategy and tactics
67
c. Deployment procedures for the resource they are providing
VI. BASIC FIELD QUALIFICATIONS:
68
A. All Ground SAR personnel available for missions shall meet the qualifications outlined in the General
Qualifications as well as those stated within this section.
B. HELICOPTERS:
Every SAR volunteer should have training equivalent to the state Basic
Helicopter course with the emphasis on safety.
C. COMMUNICATIONS:
1. SAR volunteers shall have knowledge of radio procedures and protocol

associated with SAR operations.
2. They will also have a basic understanding of how radios operate.
D. EQUIPMENT:
1. The following equipment shall be carried in a pack of adequate

design and durability to carry all personnel, plus team
equipment:
a. Navigation tools (compass, map, protractor, pad, pencil, GPS, etc.)
b. Knife
c. Matches/fire starter
d. Personal care items
e. Light source (extra bulb, batteries)
f. Shelter
g. Signal device (whistle, mirror, flare)
h. Rain Gear
i. Clothing appropriate for environment. (Only wool or synthetic for cold
weather)
j. Boots with adequate ankle, arch support and good traction sole
k. Socks (wool or synthetic)
1. Gloves
m. Head gear appropriate for environment (cold, wet, hot)
n. Food/water
o. First Aid Kit to level of training
69
p. Grid tape or equivalent

q. 2-way communication
r. Space blanket
2. SAR volunteers shall carry personnel protective equipment

including the following, plus any Specialty specific:
a. Helmet with chin strap
b. Goggles/safety glasses/face shield
c. Bloodborne pathogens protective gloves
d. Environmental protection (sunglasses, suncream, etc.)
e. CPR mask
E. SEARCH TACTICS:
Search personnel with BASIC training shall have a demonstrated

capability and knowledge of search tactics to include:
a. Hasty search
b. Open grid
c. Closed grid
d. Evidence
e. Clue awareness
f. Crime scene identification
F. SURVIVAL:
SAR volunteers shall have training and knowledge in the following

areas:
a. Self Rescue and care in wilderness environments.
b. Body and equipment management in inclement or extreme weather
conditions.
c. Positive mental attitude.
G. MEDICAL:
70
SAR personnel with BASIC training should have knowledge, where

those with INTERMEDIATE and ADVANCED training should have
demonstrated proficiency of the following:
a. Control of bleeding
b. CPR
c. Fractures and splinting
d. Hypothermia, Hyperthermia
e. Bloodborne pathogens
f. Shock
g. Patient assessment
H. NAVIGATION:
Every SAR volunteer shall demonstrate an ability to use the following

tools and do the listed tasks:
a. Identify and use maps commonly associated with SAR operations
b. Orient a map
c. Determine distances from a map and in the field
d. Have knowledge of the following coordinate systems:
(1) Lat/Long
(2) Township/Range
(3) UMS (Universal Mapping System)
(4) UTM
(5) US National Grid
e. Identify parts of a compass
f. Understand difference between true and magnetic readings
g. Triangulate your position in the field and locate on a map
h. Use a compass to:
71
(1) Take a field bearing

(2) Take a bearing from a map
(3) Follow a bearing in the field
(4) Place a bearing on a map
i. Understand forest service road numbering systems

I. SAFETY:
Every SAR volunteer should have basic knowledge of safety

associated with the following in a wilderness environment:
a. Campfires.
b. Camp stoves.
c. Flares and other pyrotecnic signaling devices.
d. vehicles (engine exhaust, catalytic converters, etc.)
J. HAZARDS:
Every SAR volunteer should have knowledge of recognition and

identification of hazards associated with:
a. Trail and terrain conditions
b. Electrical hazards
c. Weather conditions and impending changes
d. Environment (floods, rivers, cliffs, caves, etc.)
e. Hazmat (urban/rural environments to include: chemical, fire, drug
production, etc.)
f. Confined spaces (wells, mine shafts, pits, excavations, machinery, crawl
spaces, etc.)
VII. INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:
72
A. HELICOPTERS:
Volunteers with training at the Intermediate and Advanced levels need

the equivalent of the Washington State Intermediate Helicopter
Operations class.
B. SEARCH TACTICS:
Search personnel with INTERMEDIATE and ADVANCED training shall

have knowledge of the following:
a. Search theory
b. Subject behavior
c. Probability of detection
d. Point last seen and last known position
e. Confinement
f. Passive vs. active search
C. RESCUE:
SAR Volunteers who have INTERMEDIATE and ADVANCED training

shall demonstrate the ability to:
a. Safely access a patient, non-technical terrain
b. Secure the incident scene
c. Evaluate hazards in and around the patient
d. Stabilize a patient within medical and rescue training
e. Package patients into a transport device
f. Transport patient over non-technical terrain
73
TECHNICAL RESCUE STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To define recommended minimum standards for volunteer

Technical Rescue units.
II. SCOPE:
The scope of these minimum standards is limited to for all Mason

County Technical Rescue units whose members wish to be
qualified for missions
III. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:

A. All Technical Rescue personnel available for missions shall meet the Advanced requirements for Ground
SAR and all qualifications as outlined in the Ground SAR Standards and those stated within this section.
B. Must meet all requirements for type one (1) ground SAR.
C. Demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in the following, as appropriate to technical rescue:
1.
Technical rescue equipment
2.
Rescue planning and preparation
3.
Knots, hitches, and bends as appropriate to technical rescue. To

include characteristics, and handling of rope and webbing
4.
Anchor selection and anchor systems
5.
Belay techniques and systems
6.
Personal techniques for descending and ascending ropes.
7.
Patient packaging and litter rigging techniques
8.
Rigging and operation of raising, lowering, and belay systems
9.
Highline rigging and operation
10. Low angle, or scree evacuation skills and techniques
74
75
WINTER BACKCOUNTRY STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for any volunteer unit providing

backcountry non-technical SAR response in cold weather and /or
snow environments.
II. SCOPE:
The scope of these minimum standards is limited to backcountry

cold weather and/or snow environment groups in the Mason
County whose members wish to be qualified for missions.
III.GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:
76
A. Must be Advanced rescue qualified as outlined in Ground SAR Standards.

B. Personal Survival: Each Team member must demonstrate the ability to travel safely in a cold
weather/snow environment and overnight bivouac on snow.
C. Personal Equipment:
1. Avalanche transceiver
2. Probe
3. Shovel
D. Team Equipment:
1. An Altimeter
2. Trail marking gear
3. Belaying equipment
E. Avalanche Skills:
1. Small party rescue

2. Hazard recognition
3. Safe travel in avalanche terrain
4. Team Leaders are required to have a. Advanced avalanche training b.
Advanced mountain travel and rescue
F. Subject Transportation:
1. Snow transportation
2. Moving and static belays
3. Non-technical raising and lowering systems
G. Minimum Mission Team Size for SAR Mission:
1. 1 Field Team Leader

2. 2 Field Team Members
77
78
SEARCH DOG STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for volunteer Search Dog Teams.
II. SCOPE:
These standards are to be used for Search Dog teams in Mason

County wishing to be qualified for missions.

A. All Search Dog, Teams available for out of county missions shall meet the qualifications outlined in both the
Ground SAR Standards section, as well as those stated within this section.
B. The handler must meet or exceed all requirements for Basic or Intermediate Ground SAR.
B. The Search Dog Team must be:
1. Able to provide a reasonable Probability of Detection for missing persons

in wilderness, rural, suburban, and/or urban areas using air-scent,
tracking and/or trailing techniques.
2. Capable of performing this function as an asset rather than a liability.
The team must be able to perform within the existing conditions of the
search mission. (i.e.: day/night, weather, terrain, conditions, and waterdepth, temperature and currents)
3. Capable of working effectively with a variety of individuals and
organizations; including, but not limited to, law enforcement, other
search and rescue organizations, fire departments, and casual
volunteers.
IV. HANDLER EXPECTATIONS:
79
A. HANDLER:
1. Understand scent theory and be proficient in interpreting environmental

conditions that affect scent.
2. Know Canine First Aid and carry appropriate First Aid Kit.
3. Be able to recognize whatever alert the dog displays when it detects
human scent.
4. Be equipped with the additional equipment required to sustain the dog
for 24 hours.
B. AVALANCHE SPECIALIST HANDLER:
Conform to the following sections of the Mason County Standards for

Winter Back Country Units:
a. Personal Survival
b. Equipment
c. Avalanche Skills
d. Route Finding.
C. SAFETY:
Water searching to include, but not limited to:

a. Proper Personal Flotation Device
b. Proficiency in self rescue
c. Knowledge of the rescue of others
d. Water currents.
D. SPECIAL CLOTHING:
1. Hard hat
2. Boots
3. Orange coveralls.
V. CANINE EXPECTATIONS:
80
A. These standards do not address any particular breed of dog since many breeds can be trained to do any
aspects of search work.
B. The dog must be:
1. Assigned a Department of Emergency Management number which shall

be kept current.
2. Physically and mentally able to carry out the search assignment;
including, but not limited to proper vaccinations.
3. Sociable and controllable in situations involving:
a. Crowds
b. Noise
c. Other dogs
d. Variety of distractions
4. Of sound and stable temperament and have demonstrated consistent

appropriate and socially acceptable canine behavior in a variety of
situations with people and other animals. Undue aggression is not
acceptable.
5. Under the handlers control.
6. Controllable by other personnel in the event of an emergency.
7. Able to be transported in a confined space with other dogs..
C. The dog must provide a reasonable probability of detecting human scent and must indicate when it has
detected human scent by a method that the handler recognizes and that can be explained and
demonstrated to another person.
VI. SEARCH DOG TEAM PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:
81
A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. The Search Dog Team, qualified for:

a. Cadaver search, must locate human remains or
pseudo-corpse,
both on the surface and buried.
on the
b. Evidence search, must locate evidence and/or articles

ground or buried).
2. Air Scent Search Dog Team:

a. Must be able to clear a typically large area and locate a
subject.
b. Qualified for disaster search must locate a live subject
in rubble.
c. Qualified for avalanche search must provide a
reasonable
probability of detection of a
subject buried in the snow.
land or
d. Qualified for water search must, searching from either

boat, locate a submerged subject.
3. Tracking/Trailing Search Dog Team Performance Expectations:

The Mantrailing Search Dog Team must be able to document their ability
to locate a subject on a 24 hour old trail. The trail shall cover at least 1
mile of moderate to rough terrain.
82
83
MOBILE STANDARDS
I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for volunteer Mobile SAR

personnel and vehicles; to include 2-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive,
ATV, off-road motorcycle and/or snowmobile equipment for
search and rescue.
II. SCOPE:
These standards are limited to Mobile SAR Units in Mason County

desiring to be qualified for missions.
84
A. All Mobile SAR personnel available for out of county missions shall meet the qualifications outlined in
both the preface and Ground SAR sections, as well as those stated within this section.
B. OPERATORS:
Safely conduct day or night search and rescue operations in all

weather conditions.
C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT:
All vehicles used for search and rescue shall be maintained in safe
operating condition and shall conform to current state law
pertaining to motor vehicles.
D. PERSONAL EQUIPMENT:
Personal equipment should be used by Mobile SAR personnel when

entering a wilderness setting on foot and can be gathered from
required vehicle equipment.
E. VEHICLE EQUIPMENT:
1. Support/2-wheel drive
a. Seat belts
b. Minimum state required equipment
c. Tire chains (some vehicles excluded by owners manual)
d. Fire extinguisher
e. Ax or saw
f. 2-way communication back to base
g. Spare tire, jack and lug wrench
2. Offroad/4X4; Offroad/Highway
a. Same items listed for Support
b. Shovel and bucket
c. Tow strap/tow chain
d. Sleeping bag/blanket
85
86
TRACKING MINIMUM STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for the use of volunteer SAR Tracking Teams.
II. SCOPE:
These standards will set forth guidelines for recognizing and describing the
print of a specific shoe of a subject and following it to the subject. This
standard shall apply to all volunteer SAR Tracking Teams in Mason County
desiring to be qualified for Missions.

A. TRAINING:
Every Tracking team member available for out of county missions shall maintain
at least Intermediate Ground SAR Standards as outlined in both the preface
and Ground SAR sections, as well as those stated within this section.
B. EQUIPMENT:
Every mantracker shall have available to him/her all necessary Unit specific
equipment appropriate to the SAR function, including, but not limited to:
a. tracking stick
b. measuring tape
c. track marking material (e.g., grid ribbon)
d. paper/pencil for field notes
IV. BASIC TRACKING SKILLS:
87
A. REQUIREMENTS:
The minimum requirements for inclusion as a Tracking team member are as

follows:
1. Recognize and describe types of sign listed in the glossary of terms.
2. Identify and make acceptable drawings of footprints.
3. Set up sign-cut stick for use on identified line of sign.
4. Recognize described shoe type and sole/heel pattern of subject footprint in an
uncontaminated, open, light dirt area.
5. Compare identification of subject footprints and sign cut stick set-up with
other tracking team members.
6. Assist other team members in following continuity of sign along simple lines
from known point of beginning.
7. Become a compatible, cooperative and contributing tracking team member,
responsible and responsive to other team members and overall team
objectives.
8. Mark and preserve the identified tracks and line of sign.
B. LEADERSHIP:
In addition, each Tracking Team shall include at least one individual who has
demonstrated the ability to:
1. Obtain pertinent information of subject and place last seen (PLS) from SAR
coordinator.
2. Evaluate use of tracking as an incident resource using statements from
officials and witnesses.
3. Locate PLS, identify subject's footprints, determine direction of travel.
4. Effectively brief SAR coordinator with all pertinent sign information on subject
and PLS.
5. Assist SAR coordinator in setting up the tracking operation and provide
continuing base camp support throughout the mission.
88
MOUNTED SAR STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To set forth minimum standards for volunteer SAR Mounted personnel.
II. SCOPE:
These minimum standards are limited to conventional Mounted SAR teams in

Mason County desiring to be qualified for missions.
III. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

A. The rider must meet or exceed all Ground Searchers requirements to minimum Intermediate level as outlined in the
Ground SAR section.
B. A minimum of 2 riders will constitute a search team.
C. Tow vehicles must meet conditions of terrain and trailers must meet WA State Patrol trailer requirements.
IV. RIDER EXPECTATIONS:

The rider must:
1. Demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in intermediate or above

horsemanship skills.
2. Own mount and be responsible for team transportation.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in Equine First Aid and carry
appropriately equipped equine First Aid Kit.
5. Be equipped with the additional equipment required to sustain the horse for
24 hours.
V. MOUNT EXPECTATIONS:
The mount must:
1. Be assigned a current DEM number which shall be kept current.

2. Be a mare or gelding, no stallions.
3. Have proper and current vaccinations and be shod.
4. Be sociable and controllable in situations involving crowds, noise, other
animals, and a variety of distractions.
5. Be of sound and stable temperament and have demonstrated consistent
appropriate equine behavior in a variety of distractions.
6. Be able to complete a 10 mile trail course within 21/2 hours.
7. Demonstrate ability to safely negotiate all aspects of terrain in search area.
89
90
COMMUNICATIONS SAR STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for Communications personnel who may be

requested to support SAR operations.
II SCOPE:
The focus of these standards is to ensure that volunteer Communications

personnel in Mason County desiring to be available for deployment are
prepared to provide communications support within the SAR environment.

A. TRAINING:
Communications personnel available missions shall maintain a level of training

as outlined in both the General and Basic Field Qualifications sections as well as in
this section.
IV. BASIC COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS:
Communications personnel should be knowledgeable in the following basic communications skills:
1. Message handling and logging procedures.

2. Radio network operations
a. Net Control Station [NCS] operations
b. Radio relay operations
c. Radio procedures using tactical calls
3. Amateur Radio personnel must, as a minimum, be licensed as a Technician

Class Amateur Radio operator.
V. COMMUNICATIONS TYPING:
LEVELS OF NETS:
The operational communications environment of SAR is generally broken down

into these three levels of nets:
a. Search Team Nets-Organizational field nets of the search teams involved such as
ESAR, Mountain Rescue, 4X4, Dog Teams, and Tracking.
b. Incident Command System Net-Search teams to base camp.
c. Base Camp to Home Base Net.
91
92
ELT/DF SAR STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for volunteer SAR ELT-DF teams.
II. SCOPE:
These minimum standards speak to ground ELT-DF operations in Mason

County and the State of Washington, whether mobile or on foot when the unit
desires to be available for SAR missions.
III.GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Airborne DF team standards are described in RCW 47.68 and WAC 468.200 under the control of Department of
Transportation, Division of Aeronautics.
B. All ELT-DF personnel operating independently of a vehicle, in a wilderness setting, will comply with Type II Ground SAR
requirements.
C. ELT-DF drivers, team members and observers in motorized vehicles leaving a paved road network shall meet the standards
of a mobile SAR unit.
All personnel involved in field or base support positions will receive training and
demonstrate proficiency in:
a. The principles of emergency beacon transmitters.
b. Proper procedures for direction finding (DF) and search techniques.
c. Safety/hazard assessment.
d. Legal responsibilities.
IV. Minimum Training:
A. All ELT-DF operators available for missions shall meet the appropriate qualifications outlined in both the Ground SAR
Standards, as well as those stated within this section.
B. ELT
1. Search types.
2. Theory.
3. Techniques.
4. Information analysis.
C. Principles of:
1. Transmission.
2. Causes of distortion.
3. Interference and blockage of signals.
D. DF principles involving hand-held direction finders
E. Vehicle and field integration theory
F. Legal responsibilities and restrictions upon finding a transmitter.
V. RESOURCE TYPING:
93
Type II: SAR ELT Field Personnel in populated areas:
1. Ability to use prescribed ELT equipment and evaluate signal quality, during
each phase of signal acquisition, localizing and pinpointing.
2. Ability to estimate interferometer confidence factors. [Appears to be an
advanced technology not commonly available]
3. Troubleshooting of ELT equipment.
B. Type I: SAR ELT Field Personnel in populated and other areas:
1. Ability and proficiency to use prescribed ELT equipment and evaluate signal
quality, during each phase of signal acquisition, localizing and pinpointing.
2. Ability and measured proficiency in estimating interferometer confidence
factors [Appears to be an advanced technology not commonly available]
94
WATER-BORNE SAR STANDARDS

I. PURPOSE:
To establish minimum standards for Water-borne Search and Rescue to

include, but not limited to, Swift Water Rescue and Underwater Search and
Rescue.
II. SCOPE:
These standards are apply to any Water-Borne SAR unit in Mason County
desiring to be qualified for missions.

TRAINING:
Every Water-Borne SAR volunteer available for out of county missions shall
follow guidelines as stated in the preface.
IV. SWIFT WATER RESCUE
95
A. INTERMEDIATE: SUPPORT
1. Knowledge of:
a. Water characteristics, dynamics and hazards.
b. Water rope tactics and techniques.
c. Moving water basic search and rescue techniques.
d. Moving water self rescue and survival.
e. Ability to do a moving water scene evaluation.
2. Equipment Requirements:
All equipment shall be of the type appropriate for Swift Water working
conditions:
a. Helmet
b. Personal floatation device
c. Thermal protection
d. Footwear
e. Glove's
f. Knife
g. Whistle
h. Throw bag
B. ADVANCED: FIELD (involved with water operations)
1. Knowledge of and demonstrated ability:

a. To identify water characteristics, dynamics and hazards.
b. To perform moving water rope tactics and techniques.
c. In moving water basic search and rescue techniques.
d. In moving water self rescue and survival.
e. Ability to do a moving water scene evaluation.
96
Same as Intermediate. Support

V. UNDERWATER SEARCH AND RESCUE
A. INTERMEDIATE: SUPPORT
1. Knowledge of basic watermanship and SCUBA operations.
2. Working knowledge of diving physics and physiology.
3. Demonstrated ability to perform a scene evaluation.
4. Knowledge of evidence preservation.
5. Equipment requirements:
a. Thermal protection
b. Personal floatation device
c. Appropriate outer wear to coincide with conditions
B. INTERMEDIATE: FIELD (in water)
1. Basic SCUBA certification card recognized by the Recreational SCUBA
Training Council (RSTC).
2. Knowledge of and demonstrated ability of basic watermanship and SCUBA
skills.
3. Working knowledge of diving physics and physiology.
4. Demonstrated ability to perform a scene evaluation.
5. Knowledge of evidence preservation.
6. Demonstrated ability to perform search patterns.
a. Mask
b. Snorkel
c. Hood
d. Buoyancy compensator device with power inflator
e. Weight system with quick release
f. Fins
g. Knife/cutting device
h. Thermal protection
i. Tank
j. Regulator first and second stage
k. Submersible pressure gauge
l. Depth gauge
m. Timing device
97

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SEARCH AND RESCUE

POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL

SAR Division Purpose and Mission

Mason County Sheriffs Office

Mason County Sheriffs Office

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

SEARCH AND RESCUE

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Mason County Sheriffs Office

Effective Date 051005

Search and Rescue Division Volunteer Program

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

C. Selection and Placement

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Restructuring of the volunteer program

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Volunteer Position Descriptions

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Volunteer Basic Training Requirements

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

Mason County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue Division

Physical Agility / Training / Fitness Requirements

3-mile hike with 45 pound pack in 45 min

2-mile hike with 25 pound pack in 30 min

1-mile hike in 16 min

3-mile hike with 48 hour pack in 45 min

Volunteer Policies revised 9/2010

SAR Recruit Candidate

SRT - Rescue Technician

SAR EMT - Field

SAR Mobile (4X4)

SAR Squad Leader (TL)

SAR Branch Director (FL)

SAR Operations Sect. Chief

SAR Logistics Sect. Chief

SAR Safety Officer

ESAR Recruit Candidate

Incident Management Team

National Incident Management System Compliance

SAR Volunteer Standards Revised 07/2010

Emergency Worker Responsibilities WAC 118-04-200:

SAR Volunteer Standards Revised 07/2010

MASON COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE

The purpose of this document shall be to assist with the administration

2. Each Unit must adhere to the established training standards

Be at least 14 years of age.

B. To maintain membership a member must:

Inability or failure to complete the requirements of the position

G. Mason County Department Emergency Management reserves the right to revoke a

B. Hold monthly training sessions/ business meetings

SAR Volunteer Standards Revised 07/2010