Proposal for a Mountain Search and Rescue Plan for the West Kootenay Mountain Search and Rescue Group

The proposed mountain search and rescue plan will direct the actions of the West Kootenay Mountain Search and Rescue Group which is a part of the Provincial Emergency Program. Accidents do occur in the area and a standard procedure of action is needed. The proposed plan details actions that will get rescue volunteers to the staging area; it does not detail actual search and rescue procedures. Presently, there is a search and rescue organization and equipment is available. Everything is ready to go except that volunteer lists have not been compiled and no plan of action exists. The proposed plan is simple and easy to read in a stressful situation. The plan is divided up into four sections that are titled Procedure, Responsibilities, Resources, and Forms. Procedures are explained and flowcharts are used to illustrate relationships. The procedures are primarily those of the Field Rescue Leader who is the key figure in a search and rescue operation. Responsibilities are briefly stated so that people are clear on what their role is during an operation. Alternatives for acquiring equipment and manpower are listed in the third section of the plan. A large part of the plan is made up of forms to ensure that all needed information is recorded. For the proposed mountain search and rescue plan to be effective, all procedures must be practiced, volunteers must fully understand the plan, the forms must be distributed to the proper people and appropriate changes should be made to improve the plan if necessary. The proposed mountain search and rescue plan is a simple, easy-to-read guide to search and rescue in the West Kootenay area.