The Fundamentals of Search and Rescue Course (FUNSAR) is the second level of
NASAR courses. It provides knowledge concerning the general responsibilities,
skills, abilities, and the equipment needed by persons who are assigned to field
operations during a SAR mission.
The FUNSAR course also provides the student with practical exercises in addition
to a practice search mission were the students are required to have the proper
equipment and stay out in the field during daylight and nighttime operations.
The course content includes topics in three major areas: survival and support,
search, and rescue. This course is based around the rural and wilderness environments
but the material is recommended as a basis for all SAR environments.
FUNSAR provides a common point in training for the new person to SAR and allows
them to accumulate the required clothing and equipment needed for SAR operations
in their community. The course also provides practical experience during simulated
SAR operations and in many cases is an excellent refresher course for the more
experienced SAR worker. This common starting point provides continuity during
SAR operations and future training of all team members.
FUNSAR is the NASAR course designed to prepare the student to challenge the SARTECH
II Certification, according the knowledge objectives defined in the NASAR Standards
for SARTECH II.
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 FUNSAR exam or the SARTECH II certification.
The recommended number of hours for the course is (47) forty-seven. The course
is usually conducted over two weekends starting on Friday night but can be taught
(5) five days straight.
Quote: "The FUNSAR course I took not only gave me the basic skills and understanding
of doing a proper, safe search, but also gave me the confidence to take care of
myself and my team members during search operations. The FUNSAR course should
be a minimum requirement for anyone wanting to be part of a SAR Team." David Moskowitz, Director Arkansas Department of Health - Division of EMS & Trauma Systems
- Those interested in becoming involved or have just became involved with search
and rescue operations.
- SAR personnel who would like to maintain or refresh their knowledge of search
and rescue.
- Emergency response personnel who belong to organizations who provide resources
and assistance during search and rescue missions.
- Managers of emergency response organizations who want to understand the state
of the art skills and knowledge needed by the SAR workers.
- Community members and groups (scouts, hunters, hikers, etc.) that have an interest
in safety and preventative SAR operations.
The Introduction to Search and Rescue course is recommended as a prerequisite
for FUNSAR.
(Total Hours - 47) Review of SAR Management System; Fitness Basic Survival and
Survival Body Management; Clothing And Personal Protection Systems for SAR; Emergency
Survival Skills; Improvising Environmental Hazards and Survival First Aid SAR
Ready Pack; Nomenclature of Personal Outdoor Equipment; SAR Travel Skills; Land
Navigation and Orienteering; SAR Resources; Capabilities; Search Philosophy; Estimating
POD Search Tactics and Searcher Skills Handling Evidence Review of Clue Consciousness;
SAR Crew Responsibilities; Tracking Skills; Rope and Rescue Equipment; Legal Aspects
for Searchers
Upon passing FUNSAR the student should be able to:
Define the components of SAR operations;
list the major responsibilities for search and rescue;
describe the components of ICS and their functions;
list and prioritize the necessities of life;
explain the survival situation plan (STOP) Stay, Think, Observe, Plan;
list the similarities or differences and advantages or disadvantages of the different
natural and synthetic materials used for SAR clothing;
describe and demonstrate the function of each of the layers of clothing;
differentiate between a 24-hour ready pack and urban ready pack;
demonstrate the use of a 24-hour ready pack;
describe advantages and disadvantages of the equipment used for SAR;
define, describe, and identify the signs and symptoms, and describe the treatment
of common medical emergencies during SAR operations;
list and differentiate between at least three types of maps used in SAR;
demonstrate the use of personal SAR equipment;
demonstrate traveling skills used for his/her environment identify, define, and
demonstrate the use of the topographical maps;
define the plotting methods or grid systems and demonstrate the ability to use
them to determine the coordinates for a given point;
describe the parts of the compass and demonstrate the ability to use it;
describe the navigational functions used in map and compass;
demonstrate the ability to navigate during daylight and nighttime hours;
differentiate between the two basic categories of search tactics (Passive and
Active);
describe the primary types of active search tactics;
describe the techniques and methods used for search tactics; list and demonstrate
at least five of the searching or tactical skills needed by field searchers;
explain why SAR personnel search for clues not subjects;
list the information needed by the searcher when alerted; define and demonstrate
the functions of the search crew positions;
define track or print, sign, and step-by-step tracking; demonstrate the step-by-step
tracking procedures;
list at least two materials used in rope and at least two types of design used
in rope;
list at least five of the rules of rope etiquette;
list the different advantages and disadvantages of materials used in carabiners;
describe the advantages and disadvantages of at least two types of stretchers
or litters;
list at least five common radio procedures and guidelines;
and describe the basic legal philosophy concerning searcher knowledge, training,
physical abilities, equipment, discipline, and control.
View All Courses
View Course Schedules
