Presented by:
Sponsored by ACR Electronics
WELCOME TO the 2009 National Search and Rescue Conference in hospitable Little Rock, Arkansas!!!! It is with great pleasure that we gather here in Little Rock for the 2009 National Search and Rescue Conference. We are here at the invitation of the warmly hospitable Arkansas SAR community. The commitment and enthusiasm they regularly demonstrate when helping those in need shone brightly when their invitation was extended. Their support to the NASAR Board of Directors and Staff during the Conference’s development has helped ensure an outstanding experience for us all. As usual, this year’s slate of topics, training and education is intended to be both informative and meaningful. Your attendance testifies to your desire to sharpen skills and increase your professionalism. We all benefit by your participation and I encourage you to not only attend sessions of interest, but to reap the rewards of sharing your experiences and ideas with peers. This rare opportunity to network comes but once nationally each year and is not listed on the schedule of events…with the exception of the Hospitality Suite…but is certainly what enriches the experience. I encourage you to complete workshop evaluations for those that you attend – we have more than 50 presenters and a multitude of topics. Your feedback will guide our planning efforts for next year’s event in Panama City, Florida; a site selected at the invitation of the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC) located at nearby Tyndall AFB. We are also asking that you complete the conference topic survey located in your welcome materials. One of the things that helps NASAR keep the cost of the conference down is the participation of the exhibitors. Please be sure to visit the exhibit hall and browse through the many products and services available to help accomplish your mission. Additionally, NASAR sincerely thanks our track sponsors, without their support this conference would be less affordable and less enjoyable. NASAR makes every effort to keep the cost of training down for each participant and corporate support for our educational tracks is critical. In closing, the NASAR Board of Directors and Staff are grateful to all the volunteers who gave their time and effort to make this 2009 National Search and Rescue Conference possible. We would like to thank: Arkansas Department of Emergency Management Little Rock Parks and Recreation Arkansas Emergency Management Association Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services Arkansas Explorer Search and Rescue North Little Rock Fire Department Arkansas Sheriff's Association North Little Rock Parks and Recreation Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Office of Arkansas Gov Mike Beebe Air-Evac Lifeteam Pulaski County Office of Emergency Arkansas Fireboat Association Management City of Little Rock Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department City of North Little Rock Search Dog Alliance of Arkansas Congressman John Boozeman U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary- Flotilla 15-08 Franklin County EM/FS U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock Fire Department Washington County Emergency Management As you see attendees from these agencies working during the next few days, please thank them as well. Our time together each year is short, enjoy the training opportunities and take the time to reach out to SAR responders such as yourselves…that others may live. Welcome to Little Rock, Dan Hourihan President
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Contents 3-4 Conference Information 5-7
Thursday
7-10 Friday 11-14 Saturday 14
Exhibition Hall Floor Plan
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List of Sponsors
16-17 Exhibitor Profiles 18-23 Conference Speakers
National Association for Search and Rescue, Inc. The job of searching for a missing person can be an emotionally trying experience. A child is lost, a traveler is missing, a home with a family inside is devastated in an earthquake, hikers are caught in an avalanche‌ All of these can be stressful situations for search and rescue professionals assigned to locate and,if at all possible, save the people involved. Search and Rescue is a life-saving vocation. And the ability to save a life is often dependent upon how quickly the person can be reached. NASAR has dedicated itself to ensuring that each of you has the training and confidence required to be of service to your jurisdiction. ‌that others may live.
The Conference Concept The total emergency response community in the United Sates is immense: federal, state, and local fire and EMS, law enforcement and emergency management agencies number in the thousands and trained individual responders number in the hundreds of thousands. NASAR believes that a comprehensive emergency response conference is needed to serve this community. In accomplishing this goal, NASAR has developed a training forum which, we believe, cuts across the entire spectrum of contemporary emergency response activity, is innovative in its approach and will be attractive to a broad audience for its educational value.
Hospitality Networking is a significant aspect of every NASAR conference; the ability to meet and share experiences with others in your field, one-on-one, is invaluable. To facilitate this networking experience, we have arranged a Hospitality Suite during the conference. The Hospitality Suite is located in the Riverside East meeting room at the Double Tree Hotel and will carry the tradition of nightly fun and merriment. You can purchase your Hospitality Card (one time fee of $10 for two nights of fun) at Registration or nightly in the hospitality suite.
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Door Prize Drawings Traditionally, NASAR has solicited door prize donations from Search and Rescue and emergency product vendors and used the sale of door prize drawing tickets for these items as a form of fund raising to support Association activities. This year, thanks to the generosity of numerous companies and individuals, an impressive array of useful and valuable prizes has been assembled. Purchase tickets in the Bookstore. If you are not present, your ticket will be put back into the drawing. The Grand Prize Drawing will be held Friday, in the Exhibit Hall. YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN THE GRAND PRIZE. Check your attendee bag flyer for dates, times and locations of all drawings. So join the fun! Buy tickets and take a chance to win wonderful prizes and support your Association at the same time!
Conference Information The Conference Information Center is located at Registration during the duration of each day’s conference activities. The staff at Registration will be in constant contact with all members of the Conference Team and should be able to assist with any questions that you may have.
2009 NASAR Photo Contest The 2009 Photo Contest is judged by you – an attendee of the 37th Annual Conference. Your vote will help us select a winner of the $100 first prize, $50 second prize and $25 third prize. The prize winning photographs will appear on the NASAR website. Please cast your vote at the Photo Contest Display at Registration!
NASAR Bookstore The NASAR Bookstore is located in the Palisades room. The Bookstore is your one-stop shop for books, training texts, videos, computer software, t-shirts, hats and other SAR items. Come early, the new arrivals go fast!
Conference Team Dan Hourihan, NASAR President Megan Bartlett, NASAR Executive Director, Co-IC Fred Mullen, Co-IC Allen Lawrence, Little Rock Logistics Chief Ross Robinson, Finance Section Chief Ron Seitz, Operations Section Chief Howard Paul, Information Officer Janet Adere, Registration and NASAR Education Services Ellen Wingerd, Bookstore and NASAR Member Services Robert Bewer, Exhibit Hall Manager George Rice, Safety Officer Eric Martin, NASAR Education Track Leader John Boburchuk, General and Management Track Leader Cole Brown, Government Interface, Homeland Security and Urban SAR Track Leader Pete Gannon, Public Safety Diving Track Leader Janet Yatchak, SAR Dog Track Leader DJ Walker, Technical Track Leader Philip Miller, Swiftwater/Flood Track Leader
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Thursday, May 28
Sessions
T H U R S D AY : 0 9 0 0 - 1 2 0 0 OPENING SESSION Welcome and Opening Remarks Dan Hourihan, NASAR President, and invited dignitaries welcome each of you to the 2009 National Search and Rescue Conference and Little Rock. Awards Each year, NASAR pays tribute to agencies, organizations and individuals who, through outstanding services or achievements, make a substantial contribution in the search and rescue field. At this year’s ceremony, the following awards will be given: The State/Canadian Province SAR Award was established in 1974 by the NASAR Board of Directors to recognize significant contributions to search and rescue at the state or provincial level. The award is given to an individual or a “unit”. The Bob Wright Award was established in 1993 by the NASAR Board of Directors to recognize significant contribution to National Search and Rescue in the areas of “Youth Leadership” and “Dedication to Education”. The Hal Foss Award was established in 1974 by the NASAR Board of Directors to recognize significant contributions to search and rescue at the National Level. The award is named for Hal Foss, who died during a climb in Washington State, was the Washington State SAR Coordinator, and is generally credited with forming the organization that has evolved into NASAR. The Instructor of the Year Award was established in 1994 by the NASAR Board of Directors to recognize significant contribution to search and rescue at the NASAR instructor level. The award is granted solely on merit to an individual selected by the NASAR Board of Directors who best represents, in their opinion, educational excellence in the field of search and rescue.
1330-1500 Workshop Gen/Mgt #1, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Geocaching as a SAR Training Tool Fred Halley, Jr., NorthEast Mobile Search And Rescue Search and Rescue (SAR) training is challenging, time consuming, and strenuous. SAR instructors are continually looking for new and innovative ways to teach vital skills that can mean the difference between life and death, or a rescue and a recovery. Geocaching is a high tech treasure hunt that offers an inexpensive and entertaining way to learn and improve both basic and advanced SAR skills. Through Geocaching and the use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers or other navigational techniques, participants play a high-tech sport of hide and seek. In the course of play, geocachers learn or enhance their skills in mapping, compassing, clue detection, and other SAR techniques in a non-emergent, non-life-threatening situation. Map and compass are one of SAR’s most basic skills and Geocaching helps searchers build map and compass skills by using the same techniques to find a hidden cache that SAR uses to locate a lost person. It also improves the searchers’ understanding of and ability to use GPS devices for search and rescue. SAR personnel need to have a true understanding of how GPS devices operate and of what the devices’ features and limitations are. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #1, Government/Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
Civil Air Patrol Capabilities Overview & Distress Beacon Mission Highlights John Desmarais, Deputy Director of Operations from Civil Air Patrol National Headquarters This presentation will provide an overview of CAP’s current and developing resource capabilities to meet search and rescue and other emergency services mission needs. Also discussed will be trends noted so far by CAP for electronic search missions for distress beacons since the phase out of 121.5 processing by SARSAT-COSPAS satellites which began on the 1st of February of 2009.
Workshop PSD #1, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
SOP’s for Public Safety Dive Teams Pete Gannon, Dive Rescue International This lecture will discuss the SOP’s for Public Safety teams. These standards have been reviewed by some of the best Public Safety teams and meet the NFPA standards. We will discuss how to adopt them to your team. The Standards have been review by a Public Safety Diving Attorney. Workshop K9 #1, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Canine Disaster Response in the US Teresa MacPherson, Virginia Search and Rescue Dog Association This presentation will focus on the various agencies involved in Canine Disaster Response. In recent years, this topic has generated much needed awareness and attention. Federal Urban Search and Rescue (FEMA US&R), State Urban Search and Rescue (SUSAR) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) are all major players and a part of the discussion. These agencies are actively setting guidelines and best practices for training, testing and maintaining quality disaster search canine teams for Federal, State and local response. This presentation will provide insight as to the current status of Canine Disaster Response. Workshop Water #1, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
“Why Educate the Public?” — Why developing a public education program is a must! Brian Ferguson and Phil Miller, Prince William Co Fire and Rescue We have often heard “The safest rescue is the one I don’t have to do” so how do we educate the public to the dangers in flood and swift water? This program will look at a public education program done in Prince William County, Virginia specific to flood water dangers at a commuter rail station. We will look at several aspects of preparation involved before the program, what we did to educate the public and what follow up was conducted to determine success or failure of the program.
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Thursday, May 28
Sessions
Workshop Tech #1, Technical
1530-1700
Robinson Center, Room 103
System Safety Factors DJ Walker, Austin, TX Fire Department This is a discussion about system safety factors/ratios in rope rescue often referred to as safety factors. At times there can be confusion deciphering how the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other standards apply in rope rescue. There are also different variations for how “safety factors” are derived. We will discuss these standards, methods for calculating system safety factors/ratios, and how rigging methods can affect system safety. What “safety factor” does your team use? 4:1, 10:1, 15:1? Are these really obtainable? We will take a more in-depth look at safety factors/ratios and strive to answer some of these questions.
1330-1700 Workshop NASAR Edu #1, NASAR Education
Robinson Center, Room 101
NASAR SARTECH II Evaluator Workshop Eric Martin, NASAR Ground SAR Committee Chair NASAR SARTECH II Evaluators are (non paid) contract employees of NASAR who donate their time and skill in evaluating the practical stations of the SARTECH II certification examination. NASAR Lead Evaluator positions are upgrades from the cadre of NASAR Evaluators. Prerequisites: Applicants must be a voting member of NASAR in good standing and have earned the NASAR SARTECH II certification. They must have submitted the Evaluator Candidate Application Packet and received approval to take the SARTECH II Evaluator Workshop.
Workshop Gen/Mgt #2, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
SAR REHAB Response Kathleen Barton, NorthEast Mobile Search and Rescue Are we taking care of ourselves and our team responders? This presentation will look at how we make sure we do not become the victim. The fire service and HAZMAT response have long acknowledged the need to make sure the responders are well taken care of before during and after the incident. Are we doing the same for our SAR responders? Do we take better caution with our K9s than ourselves before during and after? Who looks out for US? How do we do so? What do we need to look at? Kathleen will strive to answer these and other questions during this session. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #2, Government/Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
Georeferencing and Catastrophic Incident Search and Rescue (CISAR) Rick Button, Office of Search and Rescue, U.S. Coast Guard This presentation will discuss the National SAR Committees work in understanding and developing maritime, aeronautical and landbased georeferencing requirements in a disaster response scenario. There is no single georeferencing system that will support all SAR Responders. How can georeferencing information be disseminated and understood in a disaster among air, marine, ground SAR responders and Incident Command (coordination) staffs? This presentation explains the problems associated with georeferencing and the CISAR responder and a way forward. Workshop PSD #2, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
Risk Management with Proper Decontamination Products Faith Ortins, Diving Unlimited International Improve your team’s readiness and capabilities with decontamination procedures. Learn strategies for successful grant writing and funding opportunities for your team.
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Workshop K9 #2, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Canine Code of Conduct: One Year Later Robin Habeger, STAR 1 Search and Rescue (IA) During the NASAR 2008 Conference, canine handlers met to collaborate and develop a Code of Conduct. This year we are asking those present that participated in that process to return and be prepared to discuss the results of those efforts. Additionally, even if you did not attend previously, you are welcome to attend this year’s session, provide input and listen to the results of last year. This year’s focus will be to determine if revision is necessary and how we may be able to further push professionalism and ethics in our chosen volunteer profession. Workshop Water #2, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A TBA Workshop Tech #2, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Red Mountain Bus FTX & the Guiding Line Norm Rooker, Ouray County EMS, CO The portion of US Highway 550 that connects the City of Ouray to Silverton, CO is comprised of 27 highly scenic and twisty miles with very few guardrails and steep drop offs of up to 410 feet. Since January of 2005, Ouray County emergency services have responded to eight over the side vehicle rescues, all for cars, SUVs or vans. And most recently, a 20 foot panel truck. Emergency responders for this portion of Colorado wondered what rescue strategies would be needed to respond to a tour bus going over the side ala the Mexican Hat Utah 2008 motor coach accident and rescue efforts. Towards that end, a school bus was obtained and pushed over the side of Red Mountain. Come join Norm as he describes how this Field Training Exercise was put together, what strategy and tactics were selected, how the FTX played out and the lessons learned.
Friday, May 29
Sessions SPECIAL INTEREST AND EVENING SESSIONS
1800-1900 Workshop SIG #2
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
Meet the Candidates for the Board of Directors George Rice, NASAR Board of Director Each year, one third of the seats on the NASAR Board of Directors are open for elections. Those elected to serve can have a major impact on search and rescue nationally. We encourage you to stop by and meet the candidates who will be running for office this year. Ask them questions, get to know them. Your active involvement in the process will help ensure a viable organization in the future.
1900-2100 Workshop SIG #3
Robinson Center, Room 102
Mounted SAR Discussion Jorene Downs, NASAR Mounted SAR Committee Chair The door will be open for anyone interested in Mounted Search and Rescue. NASAR has seen a surge of inquiries related to this specialty in the last year and would like to foster a more organized and formalized training and certification process for Mounted SAR. Please join us as we assess the steps to be taken as this field moves forward.
Workshop SIG #5
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
NASAR Water (Swiftwater/Flood/Dive) Community Meeting Norm Rooker, NASAR Water Committee Chair This meeting will allow participants to learn what has occurred within the three subcommittee sections; dive, flood and swiftwater. All those interested, whether NASAR members or not, are invited to attend the meeting. Workshop SIG #6
Robinson Center, Room 103
NASAR’s Tracking Education Task Force Group (TETG) – Progress Report Del Morris, NASAR Tracking Education Task Force Chair A presentation on where the TETG is “at to date” as it applies to our primary project of NASAR Course Material and our intended NASAR Course format. We will outline future TETG project intentions and projected timelines. We will have presentation of who makes up the current Committee as well as handouts of ‘Draft’ material that has been approved to be shared. We will outline what is being readied for ASTM submission as potential NASAR Credentialing. We will provide an open platform for feedback and input as well as invitations for other trackers to join this committee or ASTM [as well as other feedback options]. We show how we are doing everything in our power to assure openness and transparency to the tracking community as this project proceeds forward.
F R I D AY : 0 8 3 0 - 1 0 0 0
Workshop SIG #4
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
NASAR SAR Dog Community Meeting Mike Wiederhold, NASAR SAR Dog Committee Chair This annual NASAR SAR Dog Committee meeting will allow participants to learn what has occurred within the Section over the past year as well as plans for the future. All canine handlers, whether NASAR members or not, are invited to attend the meeting.
Workshop Gen/Mgt #3, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Searching in the Age of Online Social Networks Christopher S. Young, Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team As technology and the information super highway advances, so has its use in the search for a missing person. Recent documented cases have shown that pure investigation using the Internet have resulted in the location of missing persons, thus preventing unnecessary use of valuable resources in the field, giving the phrase “Internet Search” a whole new meaning. While todays younger generation is adept at moving around the social networks of cyber
space, like the popular “MySpace” ‘Facebook” and “Twitter”, many of us “troglodytes” need some guiding through the immense maze of information. This presentation will explore a multitude of social networks, blogs, wiki sites; the terminologies; the mechanics of moving around in these new cyber spaces; where to look for pertinent information that may be related to the missing person disappearance, and how to apply the information in building the missing person profile and investigation. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #3, Government/Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
SAR Theory in SAR Planning, Part I Eric J. Steward, National SAR School This presentation will familiarize the audience with the material covered during the one-week Inland SAR Planning Course provided jointly by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and the USCG National Search and Rescue School. This daylong event will take an indepth look at inland search theory and its application to land and air searches for missing persons and aircraft with a focus on wilderness, not urban, searches using worksheets and computer applications. The majority of this workshop is an emphasis on the planning necessary for effective area-type searching during an extended search using Probability of Success (POS), rather than just a few elements of Probability of Containment (POC) or Probability of Detection (POD), to predicatively allocate limited resources to their best effect. In essence, what to do after the hasty search and specialty resources have not found the missing person or aircraft. The workshop will not cover search tactics or technical procedures and does not incorporate field training. The workshop is directed toward SAR leaders in federal, state, and local emergency services and law enforcement, as well as Civil Air Patrol, international, and volunteer SAR agencies — those few people who are responsible for the planning and overall conduct of inland search missions. The target audience includes on-scene incident commanders and their planners, operations leaders, and up-channel reporting chain. Aiming to “find the objective fast”, the workshop centers on tools such as computer applications to help SAR decision makers determine where to search, how to divide an area between limited search resources, and how to craft the overall search effort to gain the best increases in likelihood of success at each step.
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Friday, May 29
Sessions
Workshop NASAR Edu #2, NASAR Education
Workshop Water #3, Swiftwater Flood
Robinson Center, Room 101
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
NASAR SARTECH Evaluator and Lead Evaluator Information Session Eric Martin, NASAR Ground SAR Committee Chair John Boburchuk, NASAR SARTECH Certification Review Manager It is requested that all current NASAR Lead Evaluators and Evaluators (both ground and K9), attending the NASAR Conference, attend this SARTECH Evaluator and Lead Evaluator Information Session. Items that will be discussed include recent issues that have arisen with the certification process, upcoming changes with certifications and the updating of SARTECH certifications. Lead Evaluators and Evaluators will have the opportunity to ask questions and voice their concerns with the certification process. This meeting will allow all evaluators to network with other evaluators.
Building a Better Swiftwater Boat Operator George Lewis, Rescue 3 International This lecture will address the requirements and issues to train and maintain boat operators. Training requirements and training secrets will help team leaders develop a strategy for their boat operators. We will also take a look at what other departments have done to maintain their programs.
Workshop PSD #3, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
DP1 Surface Supply System Pete Gannon, Dive Rescue International This lecture will discuss the advantages of using the light weight surface supplied air system during rapid deployment. The DP1 is the newest surface supply diving system on the market. The DP1 surface supply system hose and surface supply dive control panel enable rapid deployment into remote locations. Workshop K9 #3, SAR Dog SAR
Training Tracking/Trailing Canines Robert J. Noziska, Border Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) Workshops K9 #3 – 5 are a full day of training focusing on problem-solving for canines at all levels. Each portion of classroom training will build upon the previous session, followed with field work by the participants and their canine partners. Importance of a Ritual - This session will focus on problems encountered at the start of a track and methods used to get a controlled, confident start from your canine partner.
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Workshop Tech #3, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Belaying Falling Loads DJ Walker, Austin, TX Fire Department Have you ever caught a falling load on a Belay? Does your team regularly practice Belay Line actuations? If you answered no to one of these questions this is the workshop for you. If you answered yes how does your team facilitate this? What Belay devices do you use and why? Belays are a common staple among many technical rescue teams, but I have found that technical rescue training often focuses primarily on the mainline systems and minimize Belay System practice. Does this mean that the Belay Systems are less important? This workshop will give participants the opportunity to actually catch falling loads on various Belay devices. We will discuss various factors and how they relate to Belay effectiveness. Discussions will include: belay technique, belay system selection, rope elongation, and the affects of edge friction.
1030-Evening Workshop NASAR Edu #3, NASAR Education
Robinson Center, Room 101
SARTECH I/Crewleader Certification Allen Lawrence, Arkansas Explorer SAR The SARTECH I/CREWLEADER level of certification is the advanced level for SAR personnel. It is recommended only for persons who function on SAR missions as field searchers and who may function as Crewleader. Persons who obtain this certification are to function within the limits of the certification described our website at http://www.nasar.org/nasar/ education.php?id=10. The NASAR course that prepares one to challenge the SARTECH I/CREWLEADER examination is Advanced Search and Rescue.
The SARTECH certification program is an evaluation process not a learning process. This examination consists of both a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam includes one hundred and twenty (120) questions covering the candidate’s knowledge of search and rescue. A passing grade is 70% or above. The candidate is also required to successfully complete a four station practical exam. Should the candidate not successfully complete the practical exam, only the stations that are failed need be repeated within one year of the original testing date. The re-testing may be completed at any SARTECH I/CREWLEADER examination. Prerequisites: Candidates must be certified at the NASAR SARTECH II level. Candidates must have a current Advanced First Aid certification or higher and a current CPR certification or higher and provide proof at exam. An ideal Crewleader should be at the EMT level or above. It is recommended, but not required, that candidates have at least one hundred (100) hours on SAR missions; one hundred (100) hours of land based SAR training; and at least two (2) years active membership with a SAR organization. Candidate needs to attend exam with all equipment required for the written and practical exam. Schedule 1030-1230 SARTECH I Written exam (must pass exam in order to proceed to practical stations) 1230-1330 Lunch on your own 1330-1530 Skills Testing 1600-1830 Conference Attendee BBQ and Boat Demonstration 1900- FinishedNight Land Navigation testing. (Can also finish any stations not tested yet).
Friday, May 29
Sessions
1100-1200 Workshop Gen/Mgt #4, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
SAR Team SOP’s (What to, what not to) Paul Falavolito, Mark Jones, White Oak EMS This presentation will be an overview of a SAR teams organizational structure, that will include an in depth look at SAR team Standard Operating Procedures. Discussion points will be on what to have, what’s nice to have, what not to have and more. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #4, Government/Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
SAR Theory in SAR Planning, Part II Eric J. Steward, National SAR School (See description from Govt/HLS/USAR #3) Workshop PSD #4, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
Boat Water Ops Dave Abt, USA Services, Inc This session will look at how lessons learned from military small boat operations can be applied to boat based dive rescue missions. Agencies across the country are being tasked with more diverse marine responsibilities with limited additional resources. A review of current and new equipment will be discussed that will provide solutions for these multi function mission profiles without having to add specialized equipment. In addition to looking at available platforms for dive ops and side scan platforms, consideration will also be given to minimizing the risk for the boats, crews and divers during missions. Workshop K9 #4, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Training Tracking/Trailing Canines Robert J. Noziska, Border Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) Voice Tones and Leash Control (Keeping your dog on trail) – This session will focus on the correct tones to keep your dog on trail and engaged. In addition, it will focus on the proper communication between you and your dog while working on leash.
Workshop Water #4, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
A Review of the River Road Rescue from the On-Scene Commander Steve Miller, Cabin John MD Fire and Rescue Jim Resnick, Montgomery Co MD Fire Rescue Service A review of the swiftwater rescue seen around the world live on TV. What happens when a 66" water main breaks and turns a crowded commuter road into a roaring river at rush hour? A review of methods used by individuals on scene by thoseindividuals. Workshop Tech #4, Technical
emphasis on the relationships it establishes, the communications it improves and the focus it can bring to bear on the mission at hand. We don’t have all the practical answers, but we will lead you on a productive discussion of this important concept. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #5, Government/ Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
SAR Theory in SAR Planning, Part III Eric J. Steward, National SAR School (See description from Govt/HLS/USAR #3) Workshop PSD #5, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 103
Robinson Center, Room 102
Avoiding Edge Trauma - Using Artificial High Directionals Loui McCurley, Pigeon Mountain Industries, Inc. Steve Hudson, Pigeon Mountain Industries, Inc. “Edge Trauma” is the term given to trauma inflicted on equipment, systems, and rescuers as a result of edge friction and obstacles in the high angle environment. Edges themselves are an unavoidable fact of any high angle rescue operation, and learning to negotiate edges effectively is a matter of education, understanding, and skill. This session will explore the use of various forms of Artificial High Directionals with emphasis on easy rigging, force multipliers, and tips for best use of high directionals.
NFPA Dive PPE Round Table Dave Apt USA Services, Inc., Pete Gannon of Dive Rescue International, Faith Ortins of Diving Unlimited International Dave Apt USA Services, Inc. Pete Gannon of Dive Rescue International and Faith Ortins of Diving Unlimited International, will conduct a round table discussion on the new PPE NFPA standards and how they will affect the water rescue responders if passed and approved. We will also review current dive standards and solict on who has them now.
1330-1500 Workshop Gen/Mgt #5, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Regardless of All You’ve Heard — NIMS is NOT a Four Letter Word Fred Mullen, Franklin County, Arkansas Emergency Management Our organization had some difficulty in adopting the National Incident Management System. The teaching materials explain the structure well, but didn’t seem to provide us with the guidance on how to implement it. Nor did it give us much input into what the tasks are that go along with each function box. So we developed an underlying core of essentials of ICS that appeared to be the best practices for utilizing the system. We also realized there were ‘culture issues’—we had to determine how to discontinue what we had been doing as responders for years. We now look at ICS not just as a structure, but as a responder responsibility—a part of our standard of care. We now try to recognize it not just as a group of boxes, but the
Workshop K9 #5, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Training Tracking/Trailing Canines Robert J. Noziska, Border Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) Field Work and Problem Solving – These sessions will be used to assist handlers with any questions or problems they are encountering with their canine partners. In addition, the canines will be evaluated and a training curriculum will be suggested to assist them in reaching their goals. Workshop Water #5, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
Arkansas’ Fire Boat Program — A Look at the History and Evolution of the Arkansas Fire Boat Program Bill Barnes, Arkansas Fire Boat Program This presentation will be a one-hour session on the history and evolution of the Arkansas’ Fire Boat Program. We will present the need that prompted the Program and the initial relationship with the U.S. Forest Service at the beginning of the Program. We will then look at the evolution of that relationship and some of the problems encountered. There will also be a discussion of the equipment currently being used with a demonstration on the river using that equipment.
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Friday, May 29 Workshop Tech #5, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Two Tensioned Rope Systems DJ Walker, Austin, TX Fire Department For many rescuers in the United States, Two Tensioned Rope Systems are commonplace, but in other areas they are considered taboo. For those not familiar with these systems, we will define the difference between Two Tensioned Rope Systems and the more traditional Single Tensioned Main Un-tensioned Belay Systems. We will consider the advantages and disadvantages of both. This discussion would be an excellent precursor for those planning to attend the Hands-on Technical Rescue Systems workshop series, though it is not a requirement. SPECIAL INTEREST AND EVENING SESSIONS
1630-1800 BBQ and Water Rescue Demonstration The BBQ, supplied by Outlaw Enterprises, will be located at the “Sunken Plaza” in Riverfront Park. Attendees will use the pedestrian “Junction Bridge” located next to the Double Tree Hotel. The water rescue demonstration and exercise will demonstrate the capabilities of the Pulaski County Water Rescue Group agencies and other mutual aid partners from around Arkansas. The purpose of this exercise is to simulate various scenarios such as the response to barge fires, boating accidents, and victims in the water. Fire fighting capabilities, victim rescue techniques, and patient packaging and treatment are some of the planned events. Practicing for a Mass Casualty event on the river that would involve multiple agencies is one of the important purposes of this exercise. This exercise will utilize the Incident Command System and will involve several Fire, Police, Emergency Medical Service, Search and Rescue, and Law Enforcement agencies working together under a unified command.
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Sessions
1900-2100 Workshop SIG #7
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Cadaver Dogs in Archaeological Survey: Review of a 5 Year Study Paul Martin, Washington County Sheriff’s Department John M. Sullivan, Bureau of Land Management A missing persons case led to a group of Indian Mounds in the south part of Washington County, Mississippi. No signs of recent activity were detected but the cadaver dog used to search the area did have noticeable body language changes. In cooperation with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, canine handler Paul Martin and archaeologist John Sullivan began questioning the potential of using cadaver dogs to locate historical and prehistorical human remains. Over the course of five plus years they have sought answers on human decomposition, the human decomposition scent spectrum, and movement of scent in varying soil types and varying environmental conditions. They have also worked with canines and handlers from across the country in what has become known as the Annual Human Remains Specialized K9 Training Invitational utilizing known historical and prehistorical burials. Together with canine handler Lisa Higgins they have developed techniques and an understanding of the complex issues in approaching ! the use of cadaver dogs in archaeological survey. Workshop SIG #8
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
SAR Manager’s Tool Kit – Questions and Review Rob Brewer, NASAR Board of Director What are your most pressing needs when it comes to managing a search and rescue unit? Search and Rescue unit leadership often needs to create the administrative tools they need to properly run a unit, from bylaws to SOPs and from contact lists to training records databases. This can be a time consuming and ongoing effort. One of the objectives in NASAR’s Strategic Plan is to provide recruiting and retention tools and materials to help local search and rescue team managers manage their SAR unit (Goal 2, Objective 2). This Special Interest Group session is meant to be an open forum where you can provide input to what you want this Toolkit to be. John Boburchuk has
already made some progress on this effort and your feedback will help provide direction for our ongoing efforts. While recruiting and retention tools are the stated objective, this Toolkit will likely grow to include the other administrative tools you may or may not already have. Workshop SIG #9
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Higgins and Langley Awards Ceremony Higgins and Langley Memorial Awards in Swiftwater Rescue were established by members of NASAR’s Swiftwater Rescue Committee in 1993 in honor of Earl Higgins and Jeff Langley. Earl Higgins lost his life during an attempt to rescue a 12 year old boy in the flood-swollen Los Angles River in 1980. Jeff Langley died during a helicopter incident in 1993. Prior to his death, Jeff had worked to promote the development of a multi-agency swiftwater and flood rescue program in Los Angles County. Please join members of the Higgins and Langley Memorial Awards Committee in paying tribute to this year’s swiftwater heroes.
S A T U R D AY 0 8 0 0 - 1 7 3 0 Workshop NASAR Edu #4, NASAR Education
Robinson Center, Room 101
NASAR SARTECH II Certification David Comstock, Washington Co SAR The SARTECH II level of certification is the intermediate level for SAR personnel. It is recommended for any person who functions on SAR missions as field searchers. Persons who obtain this certification are to function within the limits of the certification described on our website at http://www.nasar.org/nasar/education.php?id=9. In addition to the information provided on the website, the NASAR course that prepares one to challenge the SARTECH II is Fundamentals of Search and Rescue. The newest edition of the Fundamentals of Search and Rescue textbook was released in 2005. Previous editions of the textbook will not prepare one to challenge the SARTECH II certification. The SARTECH certification program is an evaluation process not a learning process. This examination consists of written exam and a practical exam. The written exam includes one hundred and forty-five (145) questions covering the candidate’s knowledge of search and rescue. A passing grade is 70 or above.
Saturday, May 30
Sessions Successfully passing the SARTECH II written test assures the candidate to be certified at the SARTECH III level whether the practical exam is passed or not. Upon passing the written exam, the candidate is then required to successfully complete a six station practical exam. Should the candidate not successfully complete all of the practical exam stations, only the stations that are failed need be repeated if this is done within one year of the original testing date. Up to two failed stations may be repeated on the day of the original exam. If necessary, the re-testing may be completed at any subsequent SARTECH II evaluation. Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites required for a person to challenge the SARTECH II examination. Certification history does indicate persons who have had formal SAR training and experience on SAR missions successfully pass the examinations more frequently than others do. Workshop SIG #10
Edgehill
ASTM Meeting ASTM Committee F-32 on Search and Rescue was created at the request of the NASAR Board of Directors in 1987. The committee has developed standards relating to equipment testing; search management and air, ground, mounted and dog training and methods. Anyone can attend the meetings and offer comments, suggestions or propose new standards activity. New members are welcome to join and be involved in the standards process. The meeting will begin with a concurrent Executive Committee meeting/Opening session where ASTM will discuss the agenda and any executive matters. The three subcommittees will then discuss topics specific to their specialties. There have been several ballots for new and revisions to existing standards since our meeting in November. Most of the revisions and reapprovals of existing standards should pass without controversy, but time will be dedicated to dealing with negative votes on proposed standards.
0830-1000 Workshop Gen/Mgt #6, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Wandering: Prevalence and Response for People with Alzheimer’s Disease Kristy Klein, MSW, Alzheimer’s Assoc. National Office Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain. Symptoms of AD include gradual memory loss, decline in ability to perform routine tasks, impairment of judgment, disorientation, difficulty in learning, loss of language skills, and a decline in intellectual function. The person with AD often experiences confusion, personality and behavior changes, and difficulty finding words, finishing thoughts or following directions. One of the most life threatening and common behaviors exhibited by people with AD is wandering. Studies show that over 60 percent of people with Alzheimer’s disease will wander at some point during the progression of the disease. The activity often results in individuals wandering away from their caregivers; placing them at risk for becoming lost, injured or exposed to dangerous elements. If not found within 24 hours, up to 50 percent of those people risk serious injury or death. This presentation will discuss the reasons why people with dementia wander, common wandering patterns displayed by people with dementia and how to effectively communicate with the person with dementia (if found) and his or her caregivers throughout a search. Tools to assist in the search process will be provided. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #6, Government/Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
Volunteer First Responders, Your Expanded SAR Role in Homeland Security Support Val Bilotti RN, BS CQM, CHS-V When a disaster or terrorist event threatens, those who respond are subject to a variety of risks. How do you plan to care for our first line of defense? “Urban Shield” a 48+ hour SWAT training exercise, the single largest homeland security training exercise of its kind in the United States not only tests participants and law enforcement, but tests the planning, logistical support, oversight and care for those participating by an all volunteer team. With high probability threat scenarios spread over a wide geographic area, providing care for
over 200 event participants and another couple of hundred support personnel, poses its own set of challenges. We will address the medical pre-planning requirements, communications, logistical support and the operations that created a system that can be applied/adapted for the management of large-scale, real-world emergencies. This workshop will provide an overview of the considerations when preparing to respond to a Mutual Aid Crisis, how to utilize private, public, non-profit, profit, County, State and Federal resources; organize those entities in a sustained operation over three counties — for one ultimate goal to, “Keep the team in the Game”. Workshop PSD #6, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
Cost-Effective Side Scan Sonar Mark Gibson, Hummingbird The presentation will discuss the options available for SAR organizations that either don’t have the funds to afford high cost side scan sonar units or want to use their budgetary dollars to outfit multiple boats instead of putting one high dollar system on a boat. Also included in the presentation will be a discussion about systems that are boat mounted and can be operated by only one user. Workshop K9 #6, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Choosing Your Next SAR Dog Mike Wiederhold, Sonoran Search and Rescue While this is a cadaver dog workshop, this information applies to all disciplines of SAR. We will be looking at pros and cons of choosing a young adult versus a puppy, different breeds, buying from a breeder versus getting a dog from the pound and the different evaluation programs out there and their underlying themes. Finally we will recognize the rewards system, the different types of reward systems and the pros and cons of each. Workshop Water #6, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
“Dangers of the Dark” — A Unique Perspective on Swiftwater Rescue Operations During Night Operations Trey Smith, Rescue 3 SRT Instructor In the wake of recent floods, responders are encountering a rise in the number of swiftwater emergencies during nighttime hours. Many technical rescue teams are discovering much of their equipment nor training incorporates
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Saturday, May 30 night operations. The reduction in visibility significantly impacts our operations through psychological stress, logistical demands, injury rate, and dictates a change in tactics. The assumption night operations do not present any more danger than during daytime can become detrimental to the safety of personnel. Entering floodwaters at night is not avoidable but is not encouraged! This presentation focuses upon the various aspects of night operations among swiftwater rescue professionals. The presentation will also include an evaluation of new technology for night operations. Workshop Tech #6, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Two Tensioned Rope Systems – Hands On DJ Walker, Austin, TX Fire Department For many rescuers in the United States, Two Tensioned Rope Systems are commonplace, but in other areas they are considered taboo. For those not familiar with these systems, we will define the difference between Two Tensioned Rope Systems and the more traditional Single Tensioned Main Un-tensioned Belay Systems. We will consider the advantages and disadvantages of both. This discussion would be an excellent precursor for those planning to attend the Hands-on Technical Rescue Systems workshop series, though it is not a requirement.
1030-1130 Workshop Gen/Mgt #7, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Youth Programs for Search and Rescue Allen Lawrence, Arkansas Explorer Search and Rescue The Youth Programs for Search and Rescue presentation will address the history and background of Arkansas Explorer Search and Rescue as an example of how youth can become involved in Search and Rescue and how youth oriented SAR Teams can be formed and utilized as viable resources. The Arkansas ESAR training program will be reviewed to show examples of how a multiyear program can be developed to offer a well rounded and exciting program for youth members. Sponsorship of a parent organization, insurance and liability issues, and funding will be discussed. Recruiting youth and
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Sessions quality adult leadership to build a strong SAR Team is the key for success. Tips, techniques, and lessons learned from our sixteen year history will be discussed. There will be a discussion period to answer your questions about Youth Programs for Search and Rescue. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #7, Government/ Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
From a Responders’ Point of View: What was learned from the Windsor Tornado, Lessons Learned Charles Kirmuss, Rampart/Adams County Co. Search and Rescue From a responder’s perspective - how to survive a failure of the State-wide radio network and how to use technology to better manage responding assets and field operations after lessons were learned. The workshop covers the initial response stage, first operational period issues and how to better respond including pre-planning. Workshop PSD #7, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
Dealing with Bereaved Family and Friends Tom Greenhalgh, Billerica Police Department Dive teams spend countless hours preparing their technical skills for responding to incidents in the aquatic environment. One area which can have a great impact on the image of a team is how we deal with the families and friends of a victim when a drowning tragedy occurs. This seminar will explore some of the issues surrounding the proper way to deal with these “secondary” victims, some of the pitfalls to avoid, and the impact on the recovery team members when faced with this inevitable part of the mission. Although geared towards the aquatic-related incident, this presentation will also offer helpful insights into dealing with issues around bereavement in the non-aquatic environment. Workshop K9 #7, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Training the Final Response and Imprinting Odor Mike Wiederhold, Sonoran Search and Rescue Continuing from Workshop K9 #6, we will use the reward system to train/shape the final response. The workshop will then go through the step by step process of creating a solid final response and eliminating false responses and handler cues.
Workshop Water #7, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
Texas Task Force 1 — Responding Texas Style Joint presentation by members of Texas Task Force 1 As one of the busiest water rescue groups in the United States, Texas Task Force 1 (TTF-1) has responded to many of the biggest events in the past several years. Members of TTF-1 will share their experiences and what they have learned with attendees. Specifically large area searches after hurricanes will be discussed and how they worked in Galveston in 2008. Workshop Tech #7, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Two Tensioned Rope Systems – Hands on DJ Walker, Austin, TX Fire Department This workshop will give participants the opportunity to get their hands on Two Tensioned Rope Systems and use them in practical settings. We will review the advantages to these techniques and discuss different applications. Whether you are a trained rescue guru or have never touched a rescue rope, this workshop will be beneficial to all. We will discuss the basics and explore the intricacies. You are encouraged to bring your own rescue equipment (helmet, harnesses, gloves, etc) or there will be equipment provided by PMI, our Track Sponsor.
Saturday, May 30
Sessions
1300-1730 Workshop K9 #8, SAR Dog SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon D
Training the Final Response (Cont.) & Problem Solving Mike Wiederhold, Sonoran Search and Rescue Continuing with Workshops K9 #6 & 7, we will work to improve the reward systems and continue working on improving the final response. We will also show how to use helpers and their role in the training process. We will address any specific issue or problems handlers might be having.
1300-1500 Workshop Gen/Mgt #8, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Probability Mapping Charles R. Twardy, SARBayes Project Robert Koester, dBS Productions The goal of Lost Person Behavior statistics is to create a full 2D probability map accounting for all the relevant variables, including: the lost person, the terrain, the scenario, and the elapsed time. We will discuss the latest summary findings from the large International SAR Incident Database (ISRID), new SARBayes models based on ISRID, and 2D probability maps generated from those models. Since 2000, Bob and Charles have collaborated on several projects related to ISRID, including “Missing Person Behavior: An Australian Study”, and several U.S. State summaries modeled on that, and issued as those states were added to ISRID. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #8, Government/ Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
Fostering Good Judgment in Your SAR Unit Dana Kirsch Ray, Civil Air Patrol Safety is no accident. Common sense is no longer common. During this presentation we will do an overview of crew resource management (CRM) principles observed in and derived from the “task overload” situation. This presentation covers ways to recognize and influence the culture of your SAR team to foster an environment, which will promote good judgment. The workshop is heavily influenced by studies, statistics and best practices derived
from both commercial pilots and police officers as reported in the book ‘Redefining Airmanship’ by Kern. We will review several CRM principles which are applicable to SAR and look at examples in SAR operations when “task overload” may happen with catastrophic outcomes. For example, the FAA mandates and pilots have adopted a broad use of checklists and preprinted emergency procedures. Both pilots and police officers use radio read-back-techniques and specific abbreviations to help with foreseeable “task overload” situations. The presentation is designed to provide a framework for you to think critically about your team’s current status, safety culture, and to offer some suggestions for reducing risk. By initiating and supporting good judgment during trainings, you can improve the search’s timeline, strive to more efficiently use your resources, and increase your overall safety margin. Workshop PSD #8, Public Safety Dive
credited with several high-visibility “saves”. In 2008, SAROPS was applied to some followon searching for the wreckage of the aircraft Steve Fossett last flew, to explore issues in applying it to inland search. This presentation will describe the SAROPS approach to search planning, will detail how it was used in the follow-on search and how it might have been applied to the original search, and will discuss modifications required to fully adapt SAROPS to the inland SAR problem. Workshop Tech #8, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Avoiding Edge Trauma — Using Artificial High Directionals, Part I Tom Burroughs, Washington County AR Search and Rescue This clinic will focus on the use of counterbalance haul systems appropriate to search and rescue applications. Specifically addressed will be rappelling counterbalance, climbing counterbalance and diminishing loop counterbalance as time and conditions permit.
Robinson Center, Room 102
MABAS Water Operations in Illinois Steve Orusa, Waukegan, Il. Fire Department This presentation will focus on the development of a regional water operations response in Illinois. It will include discussion on the following: • Statewide Water Operation Team Typing • Technical and financial support for standardized safe and effective training • Technical and financial support for standardized safe and effective equipment • SOP/SOG Development • Validation of teams on a five year cycle • Inventory of ROV and Sonar technological resources • Geographical support of ROV and Sonar resources • Impact of MABAS on the Mid America Mutual Aid Compact (MAMAC) Workshop Water #8, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
Applying Optimal Search Principles to Inland SAR Jack Frost, USCG Search and Rescue Colleen Kelle, Metron Inc. The US Coast Guard has been using the Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System (SAROPS) for planning and evaluating maritime searches since 2007. SAROPS has been
1530-1730 Workshop Gen #9, General/Management SAR
Grand Ballroom, Salon B
Search Mathematics for SAR Managers and Planners Dan O’Connor, Northeast Wilderness Search & Rescue Search managers need proficiency across a range of mathematical functions to effectively define a search area, deploy resources and update results from the field. This two hour workshop will provide participants with an indepth look at search management math and some of the software tools available to ease this process. Topics include calculation of theoretical and statistical search areas, how to find and use the median and various percentiles of lost person distances traveled, how to analyze your own agency lost person data and include it in a pre-plan, various methods for creating an initial consensus, updating a search with and without ROW, routines for optimizing the deployment of resources, the mathematical importance of confinement, relating Probability of Detection (POD) to coverage, K9 POD for SAR managers, calculating cumulative POD for a segment, and use of grid search planning formulas to determine the required number of searchers , searchable area, hours of searching needed and required
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Saturday, May 30 spacing given a particular set of constraints. Emphasis will be on developing a conceptual understanding of the techniques prior to using spreadsheets or software like Windows CASIE to do the math. All software used in this class will be available as free downloads. Workshop Govt/HLS/USAR #9, Government/Homeland Security/Urban SAR
Riverside East
SAR Team Membership: Addressing Growth and Retention Rob Brewer, Spokane Mountaineers SAR Recruiting new people to your SAR unit is an ongoing effort. Sometimes we see a larger influx of people who want to get involved, especially after significant events like September 11, 2001 or local searches that get a lot of media attention. This is where the challenge truly starts. How do we accommodate this new growth? With the exception of very successful membership drives, SAR groups rarely plan for a larger-than-usual number of new volunteers. We will talk about how to develop pre-plans to accommodate a larger group of recruits than you are used to handling. How to we keep the volunteers we already have around? In most SAR units, there is typically a small core group of around 20% of the membership. The remaining 80% are those members who eventually stop showing up. We will focus discussion on how to retain more of this group. Rob will strive to stimulate some discussion about both of these topics so that the people who attend can take some ideas back to their units.
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Sessions Workshop PSD #9, Public Safety Dive
Robinson Center, Room 102
Outfitting a Dive Team on a “Low or No Budget” and in Searching “So, Where’s the Body” Mark McEntire and Jerry Gipson, Conway AR Fire Department Mark McEntire and Jerry Gipson, have been co-leaders and dive team members for over twelve years with the Conway Fire Department. Described as a progressive and willing to do what it takes organization, the Conway Fire Department, provides dive services to support the Conway community and surrounding areas. This presentation will be on Outfitting a Dive Team “on a low or no budget” and in searching – “so, where’s the body”. Workshop Water #9, Swiftwater Flood
Grand Ballroom, Salon A
The Strains on Safety: A Perspective on River Rescue in Montana during the Highwater of 2008 Cody Harris, The Whitewater Rescue Institute Recreational use of rivers has increased exponentially over the past 10 years. This is true in Montana, as it is elsewhere. In Montana,
however, the winters have been mild and the spring rivers low. But in the summer of 2008 this was not the case. As the winter snows melted, the rivers swelled to their highest flows in a decade. Recreational boaters, who had gained confidence on the tame spring flows of the past 10 years, were presented with the new challenges of high water. This proved, in some cases, to be devastating. We will look at a number of accidents that occurred and analyze the response, paying special attention to rescuer safety. This combination of increased numbers on rivers, and relative inexperience with high water, put great demands on Montana’s volunteer Search and Rescue teams. Much can be learned from their experiences at keeping the team safe. Workshop Tech #9, Technical
Robinson Center, Room 103
Counter Balance Systems – Part II Tom Burroughs, Washington County AR Search and Rescue This clinic will focus on the use of counterbalance haul systems appropriate to search and rescue applications. Specifically addressed will be rappelling counterbalance, climbing counterbalance and diminishing loop counterbalance as time and conditions permit.
Exhibit Hall Floor Plan
Robinson Center Exhibit Hall Schedule Thursday, May 28 1200-1730 Grand Opening of the Exhibit Hall Friday, May 29 1000-1600 Exhibit Hall Open An important part of your educational experience at the 2009 National Search and Rescue Conference will be the quality of time you spend in the Exhibit Hall. For two days, May 28th and 29th, you will have an opportunity to see firsthand and experience hands-on the advances in equipment/product technology and specialized services available to SAR organizations and individuals.
L i st of S p o n s o res State and Federal SAR Coordinators’ Luncheon EMS SATCOM, www.emssatcom.com Technical Track Pigeon Mountain Industries, Inc., www.pmirope.com Friday Night BBQ Outlaw Enterprises
Wine for Hospitality Suite Post Family Winery, http://www.postfamilie.com/ Mount Bethel Winery, http://www.mountbethel.com/ Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, http://www.wiederkehrwines.com/
Hospitality Suite Arkansas Emergency Management Association, http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/documents/AEMA/index.htm
Door Prize Gift Cards donated by Pro Med Emergency Medical Mgmt Services
Beer for Hospitality Suite O’Looney’s Liquor, #3 Rahling Circle- Suite 2, Little Rock
Instructor Stipend Kirmuss & Assoc./Infinity Advanced Tech, www.wwtechnologiesdirect.com Speaker Shirts provided by Mayor Veronica Post, Altus, Wine Capital of Arkansas
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E x h i b i to r P rof i l es Active Engineering, LLC
- JAKPAK Booth 33
6605 200th St. SW Lynnwood, WA 98036 (800) 775-8119 jwhite@activeengineering.net www.jakpak.com
Active Engineering LLC creates innovative products designed to provide safety and comfort in an unpredictable world. Our flagship product, the Jakpak, is the world’s first all-in-one waterproof jacket, sleeping bag and mini-tent. A portable personal shelter, the Jakpak provides an alternative for outdoor enthusiasts and a reliable solution for emergency preparedness. Air Evac Lifeteam Booth 19 306 Davis Drive P.O. Box 768 West Plains, Missouri 65775 (800) 793-0010 eatmonjamie@air-evac.com www.lifeteam.net
Air Evac Lifeteam, operated by Air Evac EMS, Inc., is the largest independently owned and operated membership-supported air medical service in the United States, conducting its operations through more than 80 mutually-supporting air medical bases across 14 states. The company has established itself as the preeminent provider of air ambulance services to rural markets, serving over 1,700 diverse referral sources, including over 1,000 hospitals and 700 EMS agencies, and attracting more than 740,000 members in support of its presence in their local communities. Air Force Rescue Coordination Center Booth 12 650 Florida Ave (Stop 73) Tyndall AFB, FL 32403-5017 (850) 283-5955/ (800) 851-3051 http://www.1af.acc.af.mil/units/afrcc/
Alzheimer’s Association Safe Rescues Booth 21 225 N. Michigan Ave 17th Floor Chicago, IL 60601-7633 (800) 272-3900 www.alz.org
for Search and Rescue and other tactical operations. The Tactical HarnessTM is lightweight, strong, highly visible, completely adjustable, and comfortable. Reflective and Cordura® models available. Custom or standard name panels.
Alzheimer's Association Safe ReturnTM is a nationwide identification, support and enrollment program working at the community level. Safe Return provides assistance whether a person becomes lost locally or far from home. Assistance is available 24 hours, every day, whenever a person is lost or found. Safe Return assists in the safe return of individuals with Alzheimer's or a related dementia who wander and become lost.
Incident Response Technologies Booth 24 3131 South Vaughn Way • Suite 135 Aurora, CO 80014 (720) 221-7394 jarret@irtsoftware.com www.irtsoftware.com
DeLorme Booth 17 2 DeLorme Dr Yarmouth, ME 04096 (207) 846-7000 Brian.stearns@delorme.com www.deloreme.com
The DeLorme PN-40 GPS is a rugged, waterproof, handheld GPS receiver with a high-resolution screen for displaying maps generated in DeLorme’s XMap software. Cut and transfer topographic data, USGS quads, aerial imagery, NOAA nautical charts, and even transfer Openspace GIS layers to the PN-40 for a powerful SAR tool. Fox 40 International Booth 8 4645 Witmer Industrial Estate Niagara Falls, NY 14305 (716) 298-1129 jfoxcroft@fox40world.com www.fox40world.com
Fox 40 has become synonymous with innovating and producing the best quality, most trusted whistles in the world. Fox 40 Pealess Whistles and Marine products are the preferred choice for professional and individual safety use worldwide. Fox 40 Whistles work The Air Force Rescue Coordination Center where cell phones don’t and communicate operates the national search and rescue net- like a GPS can’t. The one that works in all work ensuring timely and effective lifesav- conditions. ing operations. It is responsible for the Hound Gear Pet Products execution of the National Search and Booth 20 Rescue Plan and mobilizes to support 5640 Stoneway Trail wartime combat search and rescue operaNashville, TN 37209 tions. The Center provides Air Force (615) 352-0471 instruction to the National Search and mark@houndgear.net Rescue School and federal, state, and local www.houndgear.net agencies. It acts as the proponent for worldHound Gear® Pet Products are professionalwide rescue coordination operations and grade products created, tested, and handreports directly to the 1st Air Force, Air crafted in America. Our new Tactical Combat Command. HarnessTM was developed specifically 16
Incident Response Technologies creates innovative technology solutions for emergency services agencies. Our premise is simple: we want to be your exclusive provider of technologically advanced, budget-conscious products and services to help your agency deliver top quality service to your community. For innovative solutions for emergency services… “Your Search Ends Here”. Johnson Outdoors, Inc/HumminBird Booth 18 108 Maple Lane Eufaula, AL 36027 (334) 695-3328 www.humminbird.com jluther@johnsonoutdoors.com
A high performance affordable side scan sonar product that includes a transducer that is 1”x3”x6” that can be mounted directly to the boat. The fully water proof 8” display and GPS are ideal for SAR team use. Jones and Bartlett Publishers Booth 7 40 Tall Pine Drive Sudbury, MA 01776 (978) 579-8328 apakiela@jbpub.com www.jbpub.com
Jones and Bartlett Publishers and our distinguished partners are committed to providing educators and instructors with the most accurate and innovative teaching and learning solutions available. We have partnered with many organizations to provide you with superior educational materials to help drive the future of public safety training. Kirmuss & Assoc./Infinity Advanced Technology Booth 35 & 36 13401 W 43rd Dr Golden, CO 80403 (303) 263-6353 ckirmuss@frontier.net www.wwtechnologiesdirect.com
Owned and operated by SAR Team Members, Kirmuss Associates/Infinity manufactures solutions for SAR such as field programmable 2-way portable radios, FEMA/SAR 24 hour packs and recently
E x h i b i to r P rof i l es introduced an “on man” combination GPS Speaker Microphone with LCD. This device when connected to most any 2-way radio provides critical real-time information and advanced asset management as well as review of areas covered, including text messaging over a standard or P 25 radio for both the Team Member and Incident Command.
Pinnacle Arborist Supplies Booth 34 1011 A Rushing Circle Little Rock, AR 72204 (501) 837-1212 peterrausch@sbcglobal.net www.pinnaclearboristsupplies.com
Orion Safety Products Booth 11 1307 NW Hawk Creek Dr Blue Springs, MO 64015 (816) 988-7659 mikemast@orionsignals.com www.orionsignals.com
High-angle construction crews and Arborists will find NFPA and ANSI compliant ropes, slings, ascenders, descenders, carabiners, pulleys and rigging supplies from major manufactures. Contact PAS at (501) 663-8733 or browse our website www.PinnacleArborist.com.
Orion Safety Products is a company dedicated to getting you home safely. Orion manufactures a variety of pyrotechnics, first aid, safety kits, audible signals and lightsitcks for just about every aspect imaginable. We sell fire departments, police, aviation, marine, wilderness, forestry, wildfire all while trying to assure the safety and safe return of every individual in every instance. We have products to help a person to be found, may they be lost, injured broken down etc. Orion Safety Products wants you to arrive home safely to your family. Don’t be a statistic, “Be Seen”, “Be Saved”.
hazards and swiftwater rescue techniques. We provide search and rescue teams with real, hands-on experience. Whitewater Research and Safety Institute
Booth 22
1745 S Milestone Dr. Lake City, UT 84140 Pinnacle Arborist Supplies equipment, tools Salt (435) 901-2571 and supplies for Work & Rescue profesjd@whitewaterhelmet.com sionals. Search and Rescue personnel, www.whitewaterhelmet.com
The Whitewater Rescue Institute Booth 23 210 Red Fox Rd. Lolo, MT 59847 (800) 381-RAFT cody@whitewaterrescue.com www.whitewaterrescue.com
The Whitewater Rescue Institute is a leading provider of swiftwater rescue training. Students leave our courses with more than certification. We teach through scenarios. And through these scenarios, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of
The Whitewater Research & Safety Institute's MISSION is “To promote water recreation safety and save lives by disseminating knowledge and improving equipment.” To this end WRSI products including helmets, rescue rope sytems, face and ear protection systems, are taken from conceptual design engineering through prototype testing and manufacturing with constant scrutiny to ensure the highest standards are met for rigorous use in water recreation and water rescue markets (www.whitewaterhelmet.com). Zoll Medical Booth 29 269 Mill Rd. Chelmsford, MA 01824-4105 aparker@zoll.com www.zoll.com
Outlander Trailers, LLC. Booth 30 682 Grant 805 Sheridan, AR 72150 (501) 681-4573 Robert@outlandertrailers.com www.outlandertrailers.com
Outlander Trailers has been designing and fabricating overland expedition trailers, ATV transports and ATV trailers since 2002. Aside from our standard models, we custom fabricate to meet the needs of our customers. In the summer of 2008 we began custom fabricating trailers for emergency responders based on their specific needs. Ozark Rescue Suppliers, Inc. Booth 31 & 32 PO Box 237 Rogers, AR 72757 (888) 677-2213 equipment@ozarkrescue.com
Ozark Rescue Suppliers works with emergency responders to provide the RIGHT TRAINING and the RIGHT EQUIPMENT so you can provide the RIGHT RESPONSE. We distribute many of the top brands of search gear and technical rescue equipment, and provide Rescue 3 International's water and rope training to responders. 17
Co nfe re n ce Fac u l t y , V I P s a n d Lo ca l Tea m S u p p o r t
Rescue Coordinator. He supervised the daily operation of the combined Atlantic Area and Keynote Speaker: Captain David A. McBride District Command Center that oversaw the was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts. He annual prosecution of 32,841 Search and is a 1984 graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Case including 4,700 prosecuted by Academy, receiving a Bachelor of Science the Fifth District. His last tour of duty was Degree in Management & Economics and an as the CG Liaison to the United States MBAA through Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Transportation Command at Scott AFB in University. Illinois. Throughout his career he has accumulated over 4500 Flight Hours, prosecuting Captain McBride is currently serving as over 290 Search and Rescue and participating Chief, Office and Search and Rescue (CGin 9 major drug interdiction cases. 534) at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC. His office has program Captain McBride’s personal decorations oversight of the CG’s Search and Rescue mis- include: a CG Meritorious Service medal, CG sion, developing national and international Commendation Medal, 911 Medal, 4 CG search and rescue policy and procedures. Achievement Medals, a Commandant’s Letter Captain McBride began his career aboard the of Commendation, 2 National Defense Service Medals, Armed Forces Service Medal, WAGB Westwind, homeported in Mobile, 3 Humanitarian Service Medals, 1 Antarctic AL serving as the Electrical Engineering Service Medal, and 1 Military Outstanding Officer. In 1985, he was assigned to the Volunteer Service Medal. USCGC Glacier, homeported in Portland, OR as the Electrical Engineering Officer and Damage Control Assistant, making one Conference Speakers deployment to Antarctica. Captain McBride then attended Primary Flight Training at Dave Abt, Master-USCG, has spent his entire NAS Pensacola, FL and Advanced Flight life in and around the marine environment. Training at Corpus Christi, TX. His first avi- Having grown up in a sailing family on Cape ation unit was the Aviation Training Center Cod, he began sailing at the age of 6 and was Mobile, AL where he was assigned to the sailing offshore by the age of 14. Dave is also Operations Division as Schedules Officer and a licensed PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer Public Affairs Officer. There he flew the HU- having taught scuba diving throughout the 25 Falcon Fanjet, prosecuting Search and United States as well as at the U.S. Naval Rescue cases, as well as deploying throughout Academy in Annapolis. It is easy to say that the Caribbean carrying out the Drug Air his whole life continues to center around Interdiction mission. After his first tour at maritime activities. Additionally, Dave is PastATC Mobile, he was reassigned to the HU25 President of the Chesapeake Area Professional Training Branch at ATC Mobile where he Captains Association. When not diving, Dave served as an Instructor Pilot and also superworks with Law Enforcement and First vised the CG’s Flight Simulator Training Responders providing tactical boat and water Program. In 1996, he transitioned into the rescue training. His varied vessel operating H60J Helicopter and was transferred to Air experience in tactical boat and water rescue Station Clearwater, FL. While assigned to Air on inland, coastal and offshore waters proStation Clearwater, he once again prosecuted vides him with a unique understanding of Search and Rescue Cases and deployed in the vessels, teams and assets required for the support of Operation Bahamas and Turks and marine segment of Public Safety. Dave Caicos (OPBAT), an ongoing drug interdic- manages the Annapolis, MD office of USA tion operation. At Air Station Clearwater he Services, Inc.; the recognized leader for Public served as the Administrations Officer and Safety boats and equipment as well as marine Deputy Executive Officer. In 2000, Captain survival equipment. Dave and his team are McBride transitioned back into the HU25 uniquely qualified to provide the appropriate Falcon Fanjet and was assigned to the boats, marine equipment and PPE to the Group/Air Station Corpus Christi, TX as Public Safety sector. (Workshop PSD 4 the Operations Officers. He was directly and 5) responsible for all CG operations throughout Bill Barnes (Workshop Swift/Flood 5) the entire South Texas Region. In 2002, he fleeted up in to the Deputy Group Kathleen Barton has been involved in emerCommander position at Group/Air Station gency response for over 30 years as both a Corpus Christi. In 2004 he was assigned to responder and as an educator and an active the Fifth District’s Office of Response as the Wilderness SAR responder with NorthEast Incident Management Branch Chief, also Mobile Search and Rescue in upstate NY for serving as the Atlantic Area Search and the past 5 years. She has 10+ years function-
VIP
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ing as an Occupational Health Nurse at a major chemical plant responsible for the safety and rehab of a HAZMAT/Fire Brigade as well as being an EMS provider for the past 30 years. Kathleen has also been a member of NYTF-2 since 1997 as a Medical Specialist/Rescue Specialist for the team and provided rehab at WTC with that team. Her unique and varied positions have given her an insight into the Wilderness SAR community and a passion to make sure we all go home in the same condition in which we responded. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 2) Val Bilotti, RN, BS, CQM, CHS-IV, with over 27 years of experience as a health care professional. Val has a unique well-rounded background in the medical field with a passion for Emergency Response and Preparedness. Combining military medical experience with current homeland security needs, she seeks to address the ongoing preparation of law enforcement, first responders, emergency personnel, as well as the training needs of the general public. A member of the Alameda County Sheriffs Search and Rescue Team, she is actively involved in Search Management and played key roles during the 2006 Nina Reiser Searches. Recently in 2007 and 2008, Val coordinated medical and logistics support for “Urban Shield”, a multi-day SWAT Training event. As a Registered Nurse, Val has worked in a variety of roles, including: Director of Performance Improvement, Risk Management and Medical Records and JCAHO Preparation Consultant for an acute care facility. A credentialed California educator and POST Certified faculty member of the Alameda County Sheriffs Office Regional Training Center, she brings an endless amount of energy and commitment to promoting local, state and national preparation efforts. Val is a member of CalMAT and is the Principle/Owner of QUEST Quality, Emergency & Safety Training, a community and corporate consulting company. (Workshop HLS/USAR/GOV 6) Rob Brewer served as both training officer and president of Spokane Regional Search and Rescue before taking some time to become a SARTECH II Evaluator and then Coordinator (now termed Lead Evaluator.) When he returned to the local SAR scene, he joined the Spokane Mountaineers Search and Rescue team and served as its training officer for two years. He was the vice-chair for the Spokane City/County Search and Rescue Council for 2007 and the Chair for 2008 and 2009. Rob’s latest project is heading up the redevelopment and reorganization of the local Explorer Search and Rescue Post. (Workshop HLS/USAR/GOV 9)
Co nfe re n ce Fac u l t y , V I P s a n d Lo ca l Tea m S u p p o r t
Tom Burroughs started in the fire service in 1990 and has been active in many disciplines in the last 18 years. He currently serves as Training Officer for Washington County Arkansas Search and Rescue and is a Cave Rescue Instructor for the National Cave Rescue Commission. He also teaches courses in Swiftwater Rescue and Wilderness First Aid. (Workshop Tech 4) Richard Button is Chief of the Coordination Division, Office of Search and Rescue, United States Coast Guard and serves as Secretary of the National Search and Rescue Committee. Mr. Button and his staff conduct outreach and education, as well as coordinate search and rescue policy and management issues, both nationally and internationally. Mr. Button recently retired from the Coast Guard after serving twenty-two years on active duty. During his Coast Guard career, Mr. Button served on several Coast Guard cutters as well as twice serving as cutter commanding officer. Mr. Button is a 1984 graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy and a licensed Coast Guard Master Mariner. (Workshop HLS/USAR/GOV 2) John W. Desmarais, Sr. is the Deputy Director of Operations for the National Headquarters of Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. John serves as the headquarters point of contact for all emergency services, counterdrug, and homeland security matters. Mr. Desmarais interfaces with federal, state, and local personnel on operations issues, and assists in formulating the operations policies, program goals, and objectives for CAP with the USAF and other counterpart agencies at the national level. He has been involved with Civil Air Patrol operations in varied capacities and levels for over 21 years. While serving at the national headquarters, he has also worked several high priority projects. John is also a life member of NASAR. He resides in Montgomery, Alabama and is married to the former Mary Leigh Strickland. They have two sons, Will and Wade. (Workshop HLS/USAR/GOV 1) Paul Falavolito as a teenager in 1984 started his career in emergency services by joining the Civil Air Patrol. Attending as many SAR related schools and classes as he could, Paul eventually went on to become Squadron 602 SAR Team Commander and also completed the Hawk Mountain Staff School for winter/summer survival and SAR training. Paul is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and has worked and taught Scuba Diving throughout the world. He holds a commercial Diving Certification in underwater welding, nuclear and contaminated diving as well as
Bell/Saturation Diving. He is a certified Public Safety Diving instructor through PSDA (Public Safety Diving Association) and currently holds Scuba Instructor certifications through PADI, PSDA, IANTD and CMAS. In 1997, Paul became employed by White Oak EMS as a Paramedic and on September 11, 2001 worked at the crash site in Somerset County. In 2005, Paul laid the groundwork to create the WOSAR Team after the Hurricane Katrina disaster and in 2006 created the WOSAR Dive Team for water rescue and recovery. Paul holds several SAR certifications through CCAC, The Allegheny County Fire Academy, Texas A&M, FEMA, NASAR and DCNR. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 4) Brian Ferguson, Lieutenant, is a full time career firefighter and a nationally registered paramedic for Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue in Northern Virginia. Brian is currently assigned to the Fire Marshals office but remains active with the water rescue group in the county. He is also a Swift Water Rescue Instructor for Rescue 3 International. He holds a Bachelors of Science from Virginia Tech and a Masters of Public Administration from George Mason University. (Workshop Swift/Flood 1)
award received, among many received throughout the years of his career, and was the Robert G. Teather Award for Lifelong Contributions to the Safety of Public Safety Divers presented at the IADRS Conference in September 2006. He has also received, after logging over 5100 dives, Pro Diver Status from SSI. (Workshop PSD 1, PSD 3 and PSD 5) Mark Gibson is the Senior Brand Manager for Humminbird Fishfinders and has worked for Humminbird for 15 years. He has a BS in Aerospace Engineering and an MBA. Previously, Mark worked for Hughes Aircraft Company in engineering and later as a Program Manager on the AMRAAM Missile Program. (Workshop PSD 6) Jerry Gipson (Workshop PSD 9)
Tom Greenhalgh has 26 years of public safety experience having worked in the Law Enforcement, Fire Services, and EMS fields. He currently works as a Police Lt./Paramedic in Billeria, MA. Tom has been involved in public safety diving since 1986, serving as the co-founder and team leader for the Merrimack Valley Dive Rescue Team in MA as well as a Corporate Trainer for Dive Rescue J. R. Frost is an Information Technology and International. Tom is the Executive Director Search Planning specialist in the U. S. Coast for National Public Safety Solutions Inc., a non-profit organization serving various pubic Guard Office of Search and Rescue. He is the Program Manager for the Coast Guard’s safety needs. He serves as the Co-Director for Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System the Greater Lowell CISM Team and is a staff member at the On-Site Academy in (SAROPS), a tactical decision aid used to plan searches for distressed persons and craft Massachusetts, a residential treatment facility at sea and on the Great Lakes. Mr. Frost has for public safety personnel dealing with challenges surrounding personal and work-related more than 30 years experience in the search stress issues. Tom is a Faculty Instructor with and rescue field, including a great deal of the International Critical Incident Stress experience in applying information and computer technology to the search planning Foundation and is a certified trainer in a number of disciplines, including the “Grief problem. (Workshop Swift/Flood 8) Following Trauma” specialty. (Workshop Pete Gannon retired as a Battalion Chief of PSD 7) Lauderhill Fire Department after 25 years Robin Habeger is a NASAR Lead Evaluator of service where he was also Dive Team and has been involved in K9 SAR since 2001. Commander. He is currently acting as Dive She currently serves on the NASAR K9 Team Leader at Plantation Volunteer Fire Committee, the SARDUS Board of Directors Department and has been active with this department for the past 27 years. He has also and is the Executive Director of the Paws of Life Foundation. Robin and her operational been active on the Broward Sheriff’s Office K9, Talyn, are deployed through STAR 1 Dive Team for the past 15 years. He was a yacht captain for 7 years on a 100-foot yacht Search and Rescue (IA), Iowa Task Force 1 that chartered for dive trips in the Caribbean and Central Iowa Underwater Search and Rescue. In training are K9 PoL Moses for and Bahamas. He has been a Corporate disaster and K9 PoL Winnie for HRD. Instructor with Dive Rescue International Robin works at the Iowa State University since 1979. Currently, he is the President Foundation as a development officer. of Dive Rescue International and is Past (SAR DOG 2) President of Florida State Fire Service Instructors. For the past 1½ years he has been working as a Field Examiner for the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office. The most recent
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Co nfe re n ce Fac u l t y , V I P s a n d Lo ca l Tea m S u p p o r t
Cody Harris started kayaking in Durango, Colorado at the age of 11. He is a past member of the U.S. Canoe and Kayak Olympic Development Team and has spent the last two decades exploring the rivers of North and South America. Cody is the Director and Lead Instructor for the Whitewater Rescue Institute (WRI). At WRI, Cody leads Swiftwater Rescue courses throughout the Northwest. Cody says, “Swiftwater Rescue” is such a dynamic discipline; rivers rarely give the rescuer the opportunity to feel confident. As soon as you do, something changes—the water rises, the victim goes heads-down—and you have to start over. This is what makes it so important to learn the basics. Rivers challenge even the most experienced rescuers. The Whitewater Rescue Institute has taught courses to over 200 agencies, from Search and Rescue units to the U.S. Forest Service. Cody also works as an EMT in Hamilton, Montana and is also a ski-patroller and boatman on the Grand Canyon of the Colorado. He also teaches wilderness first aid for Aerie Backcountry Medicine and is a volunteer for the Missoula County Search and Rescue Team. (Workshop Swift/Flood 9) Fred L Halley, Jr. has been involved in EMS for 31 years and has been certified as a New York State Paramedic since 1982. Fred works for Clifton Park & Halfmoon Ambulance in Clifton Park, New York and is a member of the NYS Federation of Search and Rescue. Fred also is a member of his local SAR team, NorthEast Mobile Search And Rescue where he concentrates his skills in radio communications, computer mapping, and SAR education. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 1) Mark Jones has been a state-certified paramedic since 1982 with local volunteer ambulance and rescue organizations. He was a Clinical Associate and Instructor for Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Basic Trauma Life Support for the Center for Emergency Medicine for Western Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh and was an instructor for paramedic courses at several local hospitals. He held offices in the local volunteer ambulance and rescue organization from 1981 to 1995 and was Chief of the service from 1985 through 1989. He holds state certificates in Hazardous Materials, Vehicle and Special Vehicle Rescue and Fundamentals of Fire Fighting. Governor Casey appointed him to the position of Emergency Management Coordinator for the Borough of White Oak in 1992. He holds several Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) certificates and several Pennsylvania Emergency Management
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responsible for operational management for the Medic Alert + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return® program, a national identification, support and enrollment program that works at the community level to provide assistance and medical information when a person with dementia wanders or becomes lost. Kristy also develops training programs and outreach initiatives aimed at educating emergency responders, caregivers, providers and Colleen Keller is an Operations Research the public on safety issues for people with Analyst at Metron Inc., a scientific consulting dementia. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 6) firm with specialties in search theory and planning. Metron developed the mathemati- Robert J. Koester first joined the Appalachian Search and Rescue Conference in 1981 and cal algorithms used in the USCG SAROPS tool. Prior to Metron, Colleen worked eight has participated in hundreds of searches. He years at the Center for Naval Analyses, holds a Master of Science degree in biology including four years at operational commands (neurobiology) from the University of in the field. She has conducted detailed sce- Virginia. He has contributed seminal research nario reconstruction and probability mapping on lost person behavior, with emphasis on using SAROPS for the private Fossett search dementia, and created the International effort on a volunteer basis and was involved Search and Rescue Incident Database in follow-on search efforts in May ’08 and (ISRID). A type one incident commander ground search efforts in September ‘08. She and instructor for the Virginia Department is an aircraft owner and pilot with over 2000 of Emergency Management (VDEM) and hours of flight time, holds Instrument and president of the Virginia Search and Rescue Commercial ratings, and an FAA-certified Council, Robert has also worked for the Airframe and Powerplant mechanic. She has United States Coast Guard, National a BA (Physics) from Dartmouth College and Aeronautics and Space Administration, an MS (Applied Physics) from The Johns National Park Service, and Federal Hopkins University. (Workshop Emergency Management Agency. He is the Swift/Flood 8) author of numerous books and articles on search and rescue. He is currently working Charles B Kirmuss is the Director, Training on starting the International Journal of Officer of Rampart/Adams County Search Search and Rescue. Robert has presented in and Rescue, a retired Engineer/Firefighter Australia, Canada, Iceland, New Zealand, and Principal of Kirmuss &Associates/ the United Kingdom, and across the United Infinity Advanced Technologies. Charles States. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 8) has been involved in the electronic security industry since 1979 and with firefighting and Allen Lawrence has served as the Advisor and Operations Leader for Arkansas Explorer search and rescue since 1996. Since 1983, he has been involved in the design and Search and Rescue, Crew 393, for the past deployment of radio communications sixteen years. He serves as a NASAR systems and currently is involved in the SARTECH Lead Evaluator for SARTECH deployment of GPS and GIS solutions for III, II, and I. He teaches several subjects search and rescue, wildland fire and homerelated to SAR and EMS and has traveled land security applications over two way radio. to many states teaching classes and offering He started as a firefighter, then pump engiSARTECH exams. Allen has been actively neer, trainer and now is Director at large for involved in the Boy Scouts of America for his SAR group. His passion involves his vol- over forty years. He is an advocate for the unteer activities within the SAR sector and he involvement of youth in Search and Rescue. has been an invited speaker in Mexico and in (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 7) the UK discussing USA based SAR operaGeorge Lewis is a retired Fairfax County, VA tions as well as upcoming technologies. Charles is a participant at many SAR confer- Firefighter. He spent 21 of his 26 years at the ences worldwide, bringing techniques learned Great Falls station, which handled a signififrom other groups back to the USA, and shar- cant number of water and rope rescues. George developed Fairfax County’s swiftwater ing these with other SAR and first response program and provided training for its fireteams. (Workshop HLS/USAR/GOV 7) fighters and VATF-1. He is also the founder Kristy Klein is Associate Director of Safety and Capt. of the Warren County Swiftwater Services at the national office of the Rescue Team which was Virginia’s first State Alzheimer’s Association. In this role, Kristy is Response Team. George is an Instructor Agency (PEMA) certificates in emergency management. In 1999, he was appointed to the board of directors for the local ambulance organization and now holds the position of Vice Chairman. He also performs public speaking engagements for local community organizations on Emergency Management, EMS, and Fire issues. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 4)
Co nfe re n ce Fac u l t y , V I P s a n d Lo ca l Tea m S u p p o r t
Cordage Institute, NFPA, ASTM, and others. A frequent presenter and instructor, Loui has authored numerous articles and texts on the subject of safety at height and rescue, with contributions to High Angle Teresa MacPherson has been involved in SAR Rescue Techniques, Wilderness Medicine, since 1990 and has certified multiple dogs in Occupational Health and Safety, and wilderness, disaster, and human remains Fire-Rescue. Loui presently serves as recovery and water search. Teresa and her Vice-President of Pigeon Mountain canine partners have responded to hundreds Industries, a manufacturer/distributor of of searches including many disaster missions. life safety equipment for rescue and work This includes the 1995 OKC bombing of the at height. (Workshop Tech 8 and 9) Federal Building and recently Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Her wilderness and human Mark McEntire (Workshop PSD 9) remains search experience includes numerous Philip Miller has been with Prince William responses to call-outs requested by the FBI, Secret Service and State and local law enforce- County VA Fire and Rescue since 1998. He ment agencies. She current handles three dogs is a Rescue 3 Instructor for water and rope teaching with the Rescue 3 VA group. Phil - Georgia (9 years), operational in disaster search, wilderness search and human remains took his first water rescue class in 1999 and recovery; Banks (4 years) operational in disas- was assigned to a station with water rescue responsibilities for 7 years. He is currently ter search and Keys (2 years) in training for a fire fighter/medic working on a transport wilderness and human remains. Teresa also ALS unit but remains active with the county evaluates and instructs on a local, state, national and international level. Her interna- water group. This is also Phil’s 2nd year of being the Swift Water/Flood Track Leader tional travels to instruct include Turkey, the United Kingdom and Brazil. She is currently for the NASAR conference. (Workshop Swift/Flood 1) a member of the FEMA Search Working Group and Chair of the FEMA Canine Sub- Steve Miller (Workshop Swift/Flood 4) Group. She is also a member of the NIMS Working Group, developing credentialing cri- Fred Mullen has been the Franklin teria and resource typing. As a member of the County Arkansas Emergency Management Coordinator since 1999. The County SAR United Kingdom Canine Working Group, Teresa assists in the development of standards team is under his division and was started in for their canine program. Other memberships 2002. The team currently has 32 members who perform wilderness ground, some tech include Scientific Working Group on Dog and Orthogonal Detector Guidelines (SWG- rescue and urban missing person response. Fred says, “We are extremely fortunate to DOG), Virginia Search and Rescue Dog Association (VSRDA) and Search and Rescue have dedicated volunteers and paid professions come together for effective SAR Dogs of the United States (SARDUS). response in our County. I am especially (Workshop SAR DOG 1) proud of the relationship we have among our Paul Martin has been active with Search and law enforcement officers, EMS and the volRescue since 1997 and was a K-9 handler unteer agencies.” The Franklin County SAR with the Washington County Sheriff’s team started the Northwest Arkansas SAR Department from 2000-2007. Since 2000, Academy in 2006. In 2008, the Academy Paul has specialized in human remains detec- featured 21 speakers and offered its first tion and has taught for various seminars, NASAR certified class to the 131 attendees. workshops and teams. Paul has served as a Serving as Chairperson for the Arkansas land cadaver evaluator for various certifying Department of Emergency Management first organizations. Currently, Paul is working with SAR Committee, Fred has concentrated on his third K-9 Partner, a black lab named acquiring funding for local SAR Teams Jordan. Paul works as a head Wilderness Field through DHS Grant Program. Fred’s backInstructor for a wilderness therapy program in ground is in real estate, retail and farming. the mountains of North Carolina. (Workshop He is an avid reader and collector of books SIG 7) with over 6,000 volumes in his private library. Loui McCurley has over 20 years experience in Fred presented SAR topics at ADEM conferences, an Arkansas APCO conference, CAP technical rescue, fall protection and work at and at the 2007 NASAR Conference in height. Specializing in rapid, small-team techniques, Loui consults to several life-safety Charlotte. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 5) oriented standards-setting organizations Dr. Larry Myers holds a B.S. degree in including ANSI Z359, ISO, FEMA/NIMS, wildlife ecology, an M.S. degree in zoology (specialization in ethology), a D.V.M. degree Trainer with Rescue 3 International and has been teaching with them since 1994. George also owns and operates Rescue 3 Virginia. (Workshop Swift/Flood 3)
(veterinary medicine), and a Ph.D. in physiology (specialization in neurophysiology). He set out at the time of his master’s degree to earn degrees that would cover most of the major issues of detector dog use. In 1982, Larry joined the faculty of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University and began his research on detector dogs which he continues to this day. Much of Larry’s early work dealt with the sensory capacity and behavior of dogs. In 1984, his emphasis became broader when he was a panelist for the Department of the Army examining detection of landmines by dogs and other animals. In 1989, Larry founded the Institute for Biological Detection Systems at Auburn University, becoming its first director. He held that position until 1995. During that time, he was extensively involved in studies on the behavior and sensory capacity of dogs, in evaluating the effectiveness of dog handler teams and programs both domestic and international. Since that time, he has focused his efforts on methods to determine their true reliability and to determine factors contributing to reliability or lack thereof. (Workshop SIG 1) Robert J. Noziska currently is an Operator for the Headquarters/Special Operations Group for the United States Border Patrol. For the past 10 years, he has been assigned to the special operations unit known as BORSTAR (Border Search Trauma and Rescue). BORSTAR is a national search and rescue team with extensive training and experience in areas such as air operations, land navigation, technical rescue, and medical. Agent Noziska was instrumental in the implementation of the BORSTAR Canine Program for the United States Border Patrol in 2001. This is the only SAR Canine Program within the Border Patrol and is being implemented on a nationwide basis. A certified SAR canine handler and SAR Canine Instructor, Agent Noziska has been involved in the training of all BORSTAR K9 teams assigned to BORSTAR since its inception. Agent Noziska and K9 Chelsea have assisted in approximately 30 life saves, 10 recoveries, and 900 apprehensions while working in inclement weather or terrain. These statistics were achieved primarily through the use of forward and backtracking techniques. Robert is a NASAR K-9 SARTECH III Lead Evaluator and Master Trainer for North American Police Work Dog Association. In addition, Agent Noziska has given presentations on numerous canine topics nationally, strengthening existing SAR K-9 Teams. (Workshop SAR DOG 3, 4 and 5)
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Dan O'Connor is an electric energy forecaster who holds a BA in Economics from the University of Massachusetts and a Masters degree in Public Administration from American International College. Dan became involved in Search and Rescue while training to be an Army Medevac pilot in Vietnam. His very first airborne search was in 1971 for some fellow flight students and their instructor who crashed a Huey at night outside Fort Rucker, Alabama. Dan spent 11 months flying in Vietnam and four years with Grand Canyon Helicopters flying tours, and as a National Park Service contract pilot, a stint that included numerous searches and rescues inside the Grand Canyon. A contributor to the CASIE search management software, Dan has taught classes on the program and has operated the software on real and mock search scenarios. Dan is a past contributor to Response Magazine and SAR Dog Alert, and was chosen by NASAR to edit the second edition of Managing the Lost Person Incident (MLPI). As a SAR volunteer, Dan continues to serve as an instructor, director and treasurer of Northeast Wilderness Search & Rescue (NEWSAR). (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 9) Faith Ortins is an accomplished diver with over 25 years of experience in the public safety and technical diving fields. As Vice President of DUI, she developed DUI’s innovative public safety training program on exposure protection and decontamination for public safety divers. DUI continues to expand its product offerings for public safety divers with its new decontamination solutions and systems. (Workshop PSD 2 and PSD 5) Steve Orusa is a 22-year fire service veteran and is the Deputy Fire Chief for the Waukegan, Illinois Fire Department. Chief Orusa is the Director of the International Association of Dive Rescue Specialists Response Team and Chairman of the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal Water Rescue Committee. He is the regional team leader for the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) Division 4 & 5 Dive Rescue Team in Lake and McHenry Counties, Illinois – which serves a population of approximately one million people. Chief Orusa is also a Corporate Trainer for Dive Rescue International. Chief Orusa has a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Administration and is nearing completion for a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management. He is a published author with his most recent work being “Dive Rescue Specialist: Operational Training for Public Safety Divers” which was published
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in September 2007. Chief Orusa is a frequently invited speaker on public safety leadership and development techniques. He has provided analysis on public safety diving for USA Today, Fire Chief Magazine, Fire Engineering Magazine, Dive Training magazine, and has also appeared on MSNBC, Fox News and CNN to provide expert analysis on dive rescue disaster response. (Workshop PSD 8)
Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service and their regional partners. He will present his perspectives and lessons learned for this unusual event. (Workshop Swift/Flood 4)
Norm Rooker, known variously as the Code Warrior and the 911 Cowboy, has been involved in EMS and Rescue since 1973. His career has covered numerous venues from the City of St. Louis to the streets of San Francisco ranging from standard Dana Kirsch Ray, Major, has been involved EMS and supervision to Special Operations in Search and Rescue for over 15 years. She including structural collapse rescue, has a Master's Degree in learning and brain SWAT/Tactical EMS, surf rescue swimmer science from the Massachusetts Institute of and rope rescue geek, among others. Technology in Cambridge, MA. She is a Currently he is the Chief of Ouray County Nationally Registered Paramedic and worked EMS in southwestern Colorado. He is a past for a Fire Department responding to 911 member of the NASAR Board of Directors calls. She is a private pilot, and has been a and a founding member of the International member of the Civil Air Patrol - the US Air Assoc. of EMS Chiefs where he currently Force Auxiliary, since 1989. She is currently serves as the Rural EMS Chiefs section the Squadron Commander at the Palo Alto head. (Workshop Tech 2) Airport, and a Civil Air Patrol Incident Trey Smith serves as a Captain on Ladder Commander. Additionally, she is a NASAR certified SARTECH II, Canine SARTECH One in the Charlotte, NC Fire Department. II and III, FUNSAR Instructor and working He leads a variety of challenging "scenariobased" fire and technical rescue courses towards an apprentice SARTECH II offered through his training company Rescue Evaluator. She has been a Mission Ready North Carolina. (http://rescuenc.com). K9 handler since 2001 and was an associate In addition to an A.A.S Fire Science member of the Los Angeles County Police Canine Association for 6 years, a member of degree, Trey is also a Summa Cum Laude the Santa Clara County, CA Sheriff’s Office graduate of the University of Maryland with a B.S. Fire Science and minor in Search and Rescue team and a member of Public Fire Protection Management and their Type 1 Search Team. While working with FEMA as Disaster Assistance Employee Administration. He recently became a during the 2004 hurricane season in Florida, student of the Oklahoma State University's Dana's team was recognized for developing a Fire and Emergency Management graduate computer database and a process for tracking degree program. Trey was instrumental in developing a Flood Awareness and contacts with disaster victims. (Workshop Community Training program (F.A.C.T.) HLS/USAR/GOV 8) for his department and has served as a Jim Resnick, Battalion Chief, NREMT-P is a Rescue 3 International Swiftwater Rescue 32-year veteran of the Montgomery County, and Technical Rope Rescue Instructor for MD Fire Rescue Service; 10 years as a volun- 12 years. He specializes in delivering night rescue swimming and rafting operations teer and 22 years as a career firefighter and in his SRT Advanced courses. He has also paramedic. He has been involved with the served as a raft guide with the U.S. National Montgomery County Swift Water teams throughout his career. Jim started his career Whitewater Center in Charlotte. (Workshop Swift/Flood 6) as a volunteer EMT and paramedic and has served in positions including Station Eric J. Steward, Lt Col, is the Director of the Commander, EMS Duty Officer, Public Information Officer, Executive Officer to the National Search and Rescue School, Inland Operations Chief, and Director of the Office Search and Rescue Planning Course, US Coast Guard Training Center, Yorktown, VA. of Emergency Management. He has been Incident Commander on hundreds of major He is responsible for theory development and course management in support of the Inland incidents and dozens of special operations calls, but never has he seen anything like the SAR Region. He serves as the lead instructor tasked with teaching advanced SAR theory Swift Water Rescue event that occurred on and concepts applicable to both overdue airDecember 23, 2009 along River Road in Bethesda, MD. He is proud to have served as craft and missing person environments. His the Incident Commander of a large and com- students include DoD, Federal, State, Local, plex incident that both challenged and show- and volunteer SAR professionals as well as International Military and Civil Air Patrol cased the dedicated men and women of the members.
Co nfe re n ce Fac u l t y , V I P s a n d Lo ca l Tea m S u p p o r t
Eric entered the Air Force in February 1987 through the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Wittenberg University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science. He completed his Master’s degree in Education Administration from the University of Phoenix in May 2000. His a viation career includes over 3,000 hours of Helicopter operations with combat sorties during Operation Southern and Northern Watch, commanding flights in the 33rd Rescue Squadron and 41st Rescue Squadron and chief Standardization and Evaluation helicopter pilot for the 347th wing. Additionally, he has served as chief exercise planner at Joint Forces Command where he developed, coordinated, and executed 6 major exercises for US Northern Command in direct support of Homeland Defense. Prior to assuming his current position, Eric served as the Assistant Director of Operations and Watch Supervisor for the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at Langley AFB, VA. (Workshop HLS/USAR/GOV 3, 4 and 5)
Assistant Professor, from which post he hopes to rejuvenate SARBayes. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 8)
DJ Walker is a Firefighter with the Austin TX Fire Department assigned to the Special Operations Division. His work duties include responding to all special rescue responses during his shift, including: cave, cliff, confined space, lost person search, swiftwater, trench collapse, structural collapse, and haz-mat. DJ is also a Rescue Specialist with the FEMA USAR team Texas Task Force One. He has worked as a rock climbing and caving guide since 2003 for a private high school in Austin. DJ is the South-Central Regional Coordinator for the National Cave Rescue Commission (NCRC), coordinating cave rescue resources and training for the 5 state region. He enjoys traveling throughout the US and Mexico hiking, caving, and rock climbing. DJ has been a student of rope rescue since 1998 and regularly attends rescue seminars and conferences around the country. He teaches rope rescue and other rope and John Sullivan attended the University of medical related skills for various organizaMississippi, Ole Miss, where he received a BA tions. (Workshop Tech 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7) in Anthropology and History and his Masters’ degree in Archaeology. During his tenure at Michael Wiederhold has been training dogs Ole Miss, he spent a lot of time doing archae- professionally for 11 years. He is currently a Vice Commander and Training Officer of ological surveys, assisting professors in running field schools and various other projects. Sonoran Search and Rescue. He serves on the Sonoran K9 training committee. He is a In 2000, he started work at Winterville National Association of Search and Rescue Mounds Park, newly administered by the Department of Archives and History. As Site (NASAR) Canine Lead Evaluator for Canine SARTECH I, II and III; HRD and Disaster Archaeologist his duties included managing the sites collection, assessing the preservation Responder. On August 1st 2007, he was appointed as the NASAR Canine Section of the Mounds, helping to develop educaChairperson. He has also served on the tional programs for school groups and the public. In 2003, he and Paul Martin started NASAR Canine Committee as the Education Chairperson. Michael is also an AKC Canine working on using cadaver dogs as a possible Good Citizen Evaluator. His search dog survey tool for archaeologists in locating Wicca is certified in HRD for the state of Native American burials. In 2008, John left Winterville Mounds for the Bureau of Land Arizona and certified as a Type 3 Forensic and Type Other Cadaver canine through Management and has exposed the Federal NASAR. Wicca is also certified as an Government to the use of cadaver dogs for locating and avoiding Native American buri- Operational Level Wilderness Search Dog for the state of Arizona and a Canine SARTECH als. (Workshop SIG 7) I Area through NASAR. In May of 2008, she Charles Twardy is a Research Assistant also certified as K9 Disaster Responder for Professor and the principal researcher for the both live find and forensic human remains. SARBayes project, which aims to create "live" His second dog Kalli recently certified as a statistical models of lost person behavior that Canine SARTECH III Area Search and will can be embedded in search planning software. be attempting operational level certifications For his day job, Charles has helped create sta- shortly. (Workshop SAR DOG 6, 7 and 8) tistical models for cardiovascular disease risk, water quality in Sydney Harbor, credibility models for human intelligence sources, target recognition, and preliminary models for lost person behavior based on much smaller datasets. In late 2008, he joined George Mason University's C4I center as a Research
Chris Young has been active in Search and Rescue since 1981, managed searches since 1986, is the past reserve Captain for the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team and serves as chairman of the Bay Area Search and Rescue Council (BASARC). Chris is a member of the American Society of Law Enforcement Trainers (ASLET), an Instructor for the “Direction and Control of the Search Function Course” for the State of California Office of Emergency Services since 1989, and an Instructor for the “Managing the Lost Person Incident” for the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR). He also teaches specialized topics in Search Management, including Search Management in the Urban Environment, and Investigation and Interviewing in SAR. Chris has also written, published and presented search management papers at NASAR conferences, the William Syrotuck Symposium on Search Theory and Practice and several State Search and Rescue conferences on the subject of Search Management in the Urban Environment. He is also co-author of the book “Urban Search – Managing Missing Person Searches in the Urban Environment”, published 2007 by dbS Publications. Additionally, Chris is a Level 1 law enforcement reserve with the Sheriff’s Department and the City of Danville. (Workshop Gen/Med/Mgt 3)
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