NCJ Number
96857
Journal
National Sheriff Volume: 37 Issue: 1 Dated: (February-March 1985) Pages: 4-6,8-10
Date Published
1985
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The discussion highlights several concepts basic to modern search theory and describes the use of dogs in various stages of the search process and the effectiveness of dog teams working in combination with other search and rescue (SAR) resources.
Abstract
A classroom course, 'Managing the Search Function,' developed by the National Association for Search and Rescue and the National Park Service, considers urgency, quick response, prelanning, search strategy, and tactics as the concepts basic to modern search theory. Search strategy aims at narrowing the possible search area based on how far the lost person could have traveled in any direction since the disappearance. Effective tactics include an investigation to discover as many facts, hunches, and other clues about the missing person and the circumstances of the disappearance as possible and protection of the point-last-seen (PLS). Dogs, a highly effective SAR tool, can work well in conjunction with mantrackers. A search manager can do several things to help dog teams work effectively: protect the PLS, secure the scent articles before the dogs arrive on the scene, deploy the dog teams when scenting conditions are best, and make use of the feedback that handlers provide in further search planning. Good search management includes the use of multiple resources and in almost every case will be more cost and time effective with the use of highly trained volunteers. Agencies should contact one of the 45 volunteer SAR dog units in United States before the need arises. Photographs are included.