The workshop will provide opportunities for classroom discussion as well as outdoor learning so that participants will have the opportunity to practice search and rescue (SAR) techniques under simulated search conditions. While the workshop will cover some elements of rescue, it is primarily focused on the search function: focusing on the skills needed to plan and perform a search to find a missing person. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to meet and learn from SAR responders from across southwest lower Michigan. 

This workshop will provide an introduction to search and rescue, from both the perspective of the searcher in the field as well as the Incident Commander who plans and manages the search. Among the topics to be covered include: 

* Search fundamentals, including how searches are planned and organized

* Types of SAR resources and how they are used

* Hazard and risk assessment techniques to keep searchers safe

* Search strategies and tactics

* Search crew operations and navigation

* Careers and SAR and related fields