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Mobile Search Techniques

INTRODUCTION
A) The Pierce County (PC) Search & Rescue (SAR) 4x4 Unit uses five types of search techniques to locate a lost subject. Techniques are implemented after careful pre-planning has occurred.
• Mobile Type 1
• Mobile Type 2
• Mobile Type 3
• Mobile Sound Sweeps
• Vocie Checks

B) 4x4 SAR missions are very dynamic. We do a multitude of diverse tasks on any given mission. For example: transportation, communication radio relay, ground team safety support, area reconnaissance, etc. But most of all we search.

C) The aboce-mentioned techniques will be explained in detail to help you understand their use and function on a mission. Actual field training is required to gain a working knowledge of each technique. The Mobile Type 1, 2 and 3 searches are designed to complement a ground search effort or initiate one. There are some similarities to the ground type search techniques and mobile techniques.

MOBILE TYPE 1
A) Definition / Methods: Mobile Type 1 is a quick, hasty type search designed to cover a large road system or urban streets in a defined search area quickly. Approximate vehicle speed on unpaved surfaces is 15 to 25 mph, or as conditions warrant. On paved roads, drive the legal speed limit or just under. Searchers will not normally exit their vehicle on this type of search unless to specifically investigate a suspected clue.

B) Objectives:
• Quick checks of high probability areas.
• Cover a large area in a short time frame.
• Obtain reconnaissance of the search area.
• Locate Point Last Seen (PLS) or known target such as a vehicle or camp.
• Clue detection.
• Locate subject.

C) Application:
• Used in the early stages of a mission.
• Anytime to check on unconfirmed sightings or to re-check high Probability areas.
• If manpower resources are insufficient.
• ATV Missions.

D) Example: The subject is known to be hunting in an area of the county but the exact location is unknown. You are assigned to "Type 1" the road systems in the area to locate his vehicle. From this point a search area can be defined and ground searchers sent in.

MOBILE TYPE 2
A) Definition / Methods: Mobile Type 2 is a slower, more meticulous search, typically after a PLS has been located. Drivers with observers will stop and exit vehicle to check trailheads, game trails, campsites, dumpsters, behind buildings, etc. Voice Checks are implemented in thiese types of scenarios. Vehicle speeds are at the discretion of the driver. Warning light use is recommended.

B) Objectives:
• A more format, slower search of areas of interest.
• Voice checks, if applicable.
• Establish trail traps.
• Clue detection.
• Rolling containment.
• Locate subject.


C) Application:
• Used at the early to mid stages of a mission, typically after a PLS has been located.
• If the time frame for subject survival is short.
• If manpower is sufficient.
• ATV Missions.

D) Example: A subject is suspected of being mobile in an area of woods. You are assigned to "Type 2" the roads in the area. You will stop at trail crossings and dead-end roads to check for clues and perform voice checks.

MOBILE TYPE 3
A) Definition / Methods: Mobile Type 3 is a very slow road-type search. An observer is a must. Vehicle speed is at a crawl. Warning or hazard lights must be used.

B) Objectives:
• Very slow search of high probability areas.
• Voice checks, if applicable.
• Clue detection.
• Locate subject.