Primary Core Capabilities: Response

This 16-hour course provides deputies the knowledge, techniques, and concepts to effectively respond to, investigate, and manage reports of persons missing in outdoor settings. Topics covered include an overview of the WA State SAR Program and SAR resources, incident commander role and function, leadership, search management concepts, key initial actions, missing person behavior, developing and implementing action plans and objectives, managing information, understanding search techniques including Visual Calibration and Critical Separation, managing risk using SAR GAR, family interaction considerations, and application of probability theory, georeferencing and SAR TOPO.

• Understand the role and responsibilities of SAR Coordinator/Incident Commander in Washington State.

• Appropriately respond to and manage missing person reports.

• Formulate and implement effective decisions.

• Understand the importance of, and contribute to, the achievement of objectives.

• Effectively manage SAR resources.

• Explore key tactical concepts and tools.

• Manage risk.

• Understand the application and limitations associated with probability theories.

Prerequisites: IS-100 & IS-200 can be found at the FEMA/EMI Independent Study Course Site

Primary registration priority is given to commissioned law enforcement SAR Coordinators for local, federal, and tribal agencies operating within the State of Washington. Secondary registration priority is given to Search and Rescue volunteers, land management employees, fire and emergency services personnel, and agency administrators involved in SAR incident management. Consideration will be given to out-of-state applicants as space allows.