Oregon SAR (WASCO) Flashcards
According to ORS chapter 404, who is legally responsible for Search and Rescue in
Oregon?
The sheriff of each county.
Who has the authority to close access to the search area?
The Incident Commander or a designated representative has the authority to close access to a search and rescue area.
What Legal Statute protects SAR personnel in a duty to act in that setting?
In Oregon, the primary legal statute protecting SAR personnel in their duty to act is the Oregon Good Samaritan Act (ORS 30.800).
The “Duty to Act” for a SAR volunteer means:
In Oregon, the “Duty to Act” for a SAR volunteer refers to the legal and ethical obligation they have to respond to a search and rescue mission when called upon by the appropriate authority (typically the Sheriff’s office or County Emergency Management).
This means that if a volunteer is available and qualified to participate in a rescue operation, they are expected to respond to the call for assistance.
When can you use mechanized equipment in a wilderness area?
Emergencies: Mechanized equipment can be used in emergency situations involving fire suppression, health and safety concerns, law enforcement pursuits, removal of deceased persons, or aircraft accident investigations.
Legal responsibility for the acts of others that are under your control or direction is called what?
Vicarious liability
When a search area would require entering private property, the SAR volunteer should?
Obtain permission from the landowner: The most important step is to get explicit consent from the property owner before entering. This can be done verbally or in writing. If the owner is not present, attempt to contact them by phone or other means.
Coordinate with law enforcement: If unable to obtain permission, or if the situation is urgent, SAR volunteers should coordinate with law enforcement. In some cases, law enforcement may be able to obtain a warrant for entry if there is probable cause to believe the missing person is on the property.
Document entry and search: It’s essential to document the entry onto private property, including the date, time, and reason for the search. This information can be useful for legal purposes and for debriefing after the search.
What type of clothing should be worn on SAR missions?
Layering:
Base layer: Moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry (e.g., merino wool or synthetic materials).
Insulation layer: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof shell to protect against the elements.
Visibility:
Bright colors: Choose bright colors like orange or red to increase visibility, especially in low-light conditions or dense vegetation.
Reflective elements: Reflective strips or patches can help you be seen at night.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support.
Headwear: Hat for sun protection or beanie for warmth.
Gloves: Depending on weather conditions, gloves can protect your hands and provide grip.
Pants: Consider pants made from durable materials like ripstop nylon or canvas. Some SAR teams recommend wearing pants with integrated gaiters to prevent debris from entering your boots.
Shirts: Long-sleeved shirts are generally preferred to protect against sun, bugs, and scratches. Look for shirts with breathable fabric.
Jackets: Depending on the weather, a lightweight rain jacket or a heavier insulated jacket might be necessary.
If a search member is injured, becomes lost or shows signs of an environmental illness
such as hypothermia, altitude sickness or heat exhaustion:
Assess the situation: Quickly evaluate the severity of the injury or illness and the immediate environment. Determine if the situation is life-threatening and requires immediate evacuation.
Provide first aid: If qualified, administer appropriate first aid to stabilize the injured or ill member. This may include treating for hypothermia, providing oxygen for altitude sickness, or cooling and hydrating for heat exhaustion.
Call for help: Immediately notify the Incident Commander or team leader of the situation. If necessary, activate emergency protocols and request additional resources, such as a medical team or helicopter evacuation.
Stabilize and monitor: While waiting for assistance, continue to monitor the injured or ill member’s condition and provide ongoing care as needed. Keep them warm, hydrated, and comfortable.
Evacuate if necessary: If the situation is critical or deteriorating, initiate evacuation procedures. Follow established protocols for transporting the injured or ill member to a safe location for further medical assessment and treatment.
Document the incident: Thoroughly document the incident, including the nature of the injury or illness, the first aid provided, and the actions taken to address the situation. This information is crucial for debriefing and future safety planning.
What are the three elements that are necessary for fire?
Heat: A source of ignition to raise the temperature of the fuel to its ignition point.
Fuel: Any combustible material that can burn, such as wood, paper, or gasoline.
Oxygen: This is necessary to sustain the chemical reaction of combustion.
What is the minimum amount of water that a SAR member should carry into the field on
a mission?
A general guideline is to carry enough water to last for 24 hours. This means having at least 2 liters (or about half a gallon) of water.
Some SAR teams recommend carrying a minimum of 3 liters (about 0.8 gallons) of water for any mission, regardless of the expected duration.
List as three methods to purify water in the field.
Boiling: The simplest and most reliable method. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (3 minutes at higher elevations) to kill most bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
Chemical Treatment: Using iodine tablets, chlorine dioxide tablets, or drops of bleach (unscented and without additives) can effectively disinfect water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and contact time.
Filtration: Portable water filters can remove bacteria, protozoa, and some viruses, depending on the filter type and pore size. Look for filters that meet EPA standards for microbiological purification.
Which of the previous three methods of water purification is most effective?
Boiling is generally considered the most effective method for water purification in the field.
The fundamentals of survival in a non-urban environment are:
Shelter: Protection from the elements (rain, wind, sun, cold) is crucial. This could mean building a temporary shelter, finding natural formations like caves or overhangs, or using a survival blanket.
Water: Staying hydrated is essential for survival. Knowing how to find, collect, and purify water sources like streams, rivers, or rainwater is critical.
Fire: Fire provides warmth, a way to cook food, purify water, signal for help, and can provide a psychological boost. Knowing how to start and maintain a fire in different conditions is vital.
Food: Foraging for edible plants, setting traps or snares for small animals, and fishing are potential ways to obtain sustenance. Knowledge of edible and poisonous plants is important.
Signaling: If lost or injured, being able to signal for help can be lifesaving. This could involve using a mirror to reflect sunlight, building a smoky fire, or using a whistle.
On a VHF radio, what does the frequency number (such as 146.5020 MHz) represent?
On a VHF radio, the frequency number (like 146.5020 MHz) represents the specific channel or wavelength that the radio transmits and receives signals on. This particular frequency is measured in megahertz (MHz) and falls within the “two-meter” band commonly used for amateur radio communication.
What does a Frequency length represent?
A frequency’s wavelength represents the physical distance between two consecutive peaks (or troughs) of a radio wave. It’s inversely proportional to the frequency, meaning higher frequencies have shorter wavelengths, and lower frequencies have longer wavelengths.
On a VHF radio, a stored frequency is called a what?
On a VHF radio, a stored frequency is commonly called a channel.
What is the function of a repeater?
A repeater is a combination of a radio receiver and a radio transmitter that receives a weak signal and re-transmits it at a higher power or on a different frequency, thus extending the range of radio communication.
What meant by the term “manual radio relay”?
“Manual radio relay” refers to a communication method where a person or team relays a radio message by:
Receiving: They receive a transmission from one source on a specific frequency.
Re-transmitting: They then manually re-transmit the message on a different frequency or to a different location that the original signal may not have reached.
How does weather affect the performance of the battery on your portable radio?
Cold Weather:
Reduced Capacity: Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reactions within the battery, reducing its overall capacity and shortening its lifespan. This means your radio may not last as long on a single charge in cold weather.
Slower Charging: Batteries also charge slower in cold temperatures, so it may take longer to recharge your radio.
Temporary Voltage Drop: Extreme cold can cause a temporary drop in voltage, leading to reduced performance or even shutting down the radio.
Hot Weather:
Accelerated Degradation: High temperatures can accelerate the chemical degradation of the battery, permanently reducing its capacity over time.
Increased Self-Discharge: Heat also increases the rate of self-discharge, meaning your battery will lose its charge faster even when not in use.
Risk of Overheating: In extreme heat, the battery could overheat, potentially causing damage or even posing a safety risk.
How does terrain and structures interfere with radio transmissions?
Terrain and structures can interfere with radio transmissions in several ways:
- Obstructions:
Line-of-Sight: VHF/UHF radio signals typically travel in a straight line (line-of-sight). Hills, mountains, buildings, and dense forests can block these signals, creating “shadow zones” where communication is difficult or impossible.
Diffraction: While radio waves generally travel in straight lines, they can bend or diffract around obstacles to some extent. However, this bending is limited and the signal strength weakens significantly as it diffracts.
2. Reflections:
Multipath Fading: Buildings, metal structures, and even bodies of water can reflect radio waves. This can create multiple paths for the signal to reach the receiver, causing interference and signal fading. The different paths can also cause the signal to arrive at slightly different times, leading to distortion and garbled audio.
3. Absorption:
Dense Vegetation: Trees and other vegetation can absorb radio waves, especially at higher frequencies. This is why it can be difficult to communicate in dense forests or jungles.
Building Materials: Some building materials, like concrete and metal, can also absorb radio waves, making it harder for signals to penetrate indoors.
Unless otherwise specified, radio transmissions during search missions should be in:
Unless otherwise specified, radio transmissions during search missions should be in plain English. This means avoiding codes, jargon, or abbreviations that might not be understood by all members of the team. Clear and concise communication is essential for effective coordination and safety during search operations.
When team members need to converse with one another during non-essential events
they should:
When team members need to converse with one another during non-essential events, they should:
Switch to a designated non-emergency channel: This helps keep the primary channels clear for critical communication related to the search operation.
Keep conversations brief and relevant: Be mindful of others who may need to use the radio. Avoid lengthy discussions or personal conversations that are not related to the task at hand.
Use appropriate language: Maintain professionalism and avoid using inappropriate or offensive language.
Follow established protocols: Each SAR team may have specific protocols for non-essential communication, so be sure to follow those guidelines.
One of the primary frequencies used in searches is the Oregon State SAR, known as
SAR Orange. This is:
The primary frequency used in searches in Oregon, known as SAR Orange, is 155.805 MHz FM.
In general, how should the antenna on a portable radio be position for best transmission and reception?
For the best transmission and reception on a portable radio, the antenna should generally be positioned:
Vertically: Holding the antenna upright maximizes its effective length and allows it to capture or radiate signals more efficiently.
Unobstructed: Keep the antenna as clear of obstructions as possible. Avoid holding the radio close to your body or other objects that could block the signal.
Elevated: If possible, raise the antenna higher, such as by holding the radio above your head. This can help overcome obstacles and improve the line-of-sight to the receiving or transmitting station.
Directional: Some antennas are directional, meaning they transmit or receive signals more strongly in a particular direction. If you know the general direction of the other station, try pointing the antenna towards it.
What can you do to improve your radio performance when you are having transmitting or receiving issues?
To improve radio performance when experiencing transmitting or receiving issues, you can try the following:
For transmitting issues:
Check the battery: Ensure your radio has sufficient battery power, as low power can weaken transmissions.
Adjust the squelch: The squelch control filters out background noise when no signal is present. Adjust it to reduce static and improve clarity.
Increase power output: Some radios allow you to adjust the power output. Increase it to boost your signal strength.
Change location: Move to a higher elevation or a clearer area with fewer obstructions.
Try a different frequency: Interference on your current frequency may be affecting transmission.
Check the antenna: Ensure the antenna is fully extended and in good condition. If it’s damaged, replace it.
For receiving issues:
Adjust the squelch: As mentioned above, adjust the squelch to reduce background noise and improve signal clarity.
Change location: Move to a higher elevation or a clearer area with fewer obstructions.
Try a different frequency: Interference on your current frequency may be affecting reception.
Check the antenna: Make sure the antenna is fully extended and in good condition. If it’s damaged, replace it.
Use a better antenna: If you’re using the built-in antenna, consider using an external antenna for better reception.
Check for interference: Identify and eliminate sources of interference, such as electronic devices or power lines.
Several types of maps can be used in Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, each offering different information and advantages depending on the situation:
Topographic Maps: These maps show terrain features like elevation contours, hills, valleys, and water bodies. They are essential for understanding the landscape and planning search routes.
Orthophoto Maps: These are aerial photographs that have been corrected to show accurate ground distances and scale. They provide detailed visual information about the terrain, vegetation, and man-made structures.
Trail Maps: If the search area includes trails or paths, trail maps can be useful for navigating and identifying potential areas where the subject may have traveled.
Custom SAR Maps: SAR teams may create their own maps using GIS (Geographic Information System) software. These maps can be tailored to the specific needs of the search, incorporating data on terrain, vegetation, previous searches, and other relevant information.
GPS Maps: GPS devices can display digital maps and provide real-time location tracking, which is invaluable for navigation and recording search routes.
USGS Maps: The United States Geological Survey (USGS) produces a variety of maps, including topographic maps and orthophoto maps, that can be useful for SAR operations.
OSARID (Oregon Search and Rescue Incident Database): This online platform allows SAR coordinators in Oregon to view and edit information about search and rescue incidents, including maps of search areas.
A map township and range section is a square that is:
A map township and range section is a square that is one mile by one mile (or approximately 1.6 km by 1.6 km).
Each section contains 640 acres. A township consists of 36 sections arranged in a 6-by-6 grid, making it 6 miles by 6 miles. This system, known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), was used to divide land in the western United States for sale and settlement.
What does UTM stand for?
UTM stands for Universal Transverse Mercator. It’s a plane coordinate grid system used to identify locations on the Earth.
What are the three most commonly used coordinate systems?
The three most commonly used coordinate systems are:
Geographic Coordinate System (GCS): This system uses latitude and longitude to define locations on the Earth’s surface. Latitude measures the angle north or south of the equator, while longitude measures the angle east or west of the prime meridian.
Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM): This system divides the Earth into 60 zones, each 6 degrees of longitude wide. Within each zone, locations are identified by an easting (distance east of the zone’s central meridian) and a northing (distance north of the equator). UTM is often used for mapping and surveying because it provides accurate measurements over relatively small areas.
State Plane Coordinate System (SPCS): This system is specific to the United States and divides each state into zones. Each zone has its own coordinate system, making it easier to measure distances and areas within a state. SPCS is commonly used for legal descriptions of property and for engineering projects.
While these are the most common systems, there are many other coordinate systems used for specific purposes, such as the Military Grid Reference System (MGRS), which is used by the military for navigation and targeting.
UTM coordinates are divided into grid squares of:
UTM coordinates are typically presented in grid squares of 100,000 meters (100 kilometers). However, these can be further subdivided into smaller squares for more precise location identification:
100,000 meter squares: These are the basic grid squares identified by a grid zone designator (e.g., 10T) and a two-letter code.
1,000 meter squares: These are subdivisions of the 100,000 meter squares, often marked on topographic maps with tick marks or grid lines.
100 meter or 10 meter squares: These are further subdivisions used for even more precise location measurements.
The specific size of the grid square used will depend on the level of precision required for the particular application. For example, military applications might use 100 meter or even 10 meter grid squares, while general navigation might only require 1,000 meter squares.
How does UTM measures the world?
The Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) system measures the world by dividing it into 60 zones, each 6 degrees of longitude wide. These zones are numbered from 1 to 60, starting at the International Date Line and moving eastward.
Within each zone, UTM uses a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system to identify locations. This system consists of:
Easting: A measurement in meters indicating the distance east from the central meridian of the zone.
Northing: A measurement in meters indicating the distance north of the equator.
To avoid negative numbers, the equator is assigned a northing of 0 meters in the northern hemisphere and 10,000,000 meters in the southern hemisphere. The central meridian of each zone is assigned an easting of 500,000 meters.
This system allows for accurate and consistent measurement of locations within each zone, with minimal distortion due to the Earth’s curvature. However, because the Earth is a sphere, there is some distortion near the edges of each zone.
Here’s a simplified example of how a UTM coordinate might look:
Zone: 10T
Easting: 654321 meters
Northing: 4789012 meters
This coordinate would pinpoint a specific location within zone 10T, approximately 654 kilometers east of the zone’s central meridian and 4,789 kilometers north of the equator.
What different map datums are used by SAR?
Search and Rescue (SAR) teams commonly use several different map datums, depending on the region, the age of the maps, and the available technology:
NAD 27 (North American Datum of 1927): This is an older datum that was widely used in the United States until the 1980s. It is still found on many older topographic maps and may be used by some SAR teams in areas where those maps are still relevant.
NAD 83 (North American Datum of 1983): This is a newer datum that is more accurate than NAD 27 and is widely used in the United States for modern mapping. Many GPS devices can use NAD 83 as a reference datum.
WGS 84 (World Geodetic System of 1984): This is a global datum that is used by the Global Positioning System (GPS). It is the default datum for most GPS devices and is often used in conjunction with UTM coordinates.
What is the most important reason that all of the search resources on a mission use
the same map datum and coordinate system?
The most important reason for all search resources on a mission to use the same map datum and coordinate system is to ensure accurate and consistent location information. This allows for:
Effective Communication: All team members can easily share and understand location information, avoiding confusion and potential errors.
Precise Navigation: Searchers can accurately navigate to specific points on the map, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of getting lost.
Efficient Coordination: Resources can be allocated and directed more effectively based on precise location data.
Seamless Integration of Data: Data from different sources (e.g., GPS, maps, aerial imagery) can be integrated and analyzed more easily, leading to better decision-making.
If different datums or coordinate systems are used, it can lead to significant errors in location measurements, causing confusion, miscommunication, and potentially jeopardizing the success of the search operation.
The advantages of using a GPS unit are:
The advantages of using a GPS unit in Search and Rescue (SAR) are numerous:
Precise Location: GPS provides accurate real-time coordinates, allowing rescuers to pinpoint their location and the location of the subject(s) they are searching for. This eliminates guesswork and increases the efficiency of the search.
Navigation: GPS enables rescuers to navigate through unfamiliar terrain, even in low visibility or challenging conditions. It helps them plan routes, track their progress, and avoid getting lost.
Data Collection: GPS units can record track logs, waypoints, and other data that can be used to analyze the search effort, create maps, and improve future operations.
Communication: Some GPS units have built-in communication features, allowing rescuers to send and receive messages, share location information, and request assistance.
Safety: GPS can enhance the safety of SAR teams by providing a reliable way to track their location and ensure they can find their way back to base. It can also be used to mark hazardous areas or establish exclusion zones.
Efficiency: By using GPS, SAR teams can save valuable time and resources by optimizing search patterns, avoiding redundant searches, and quickly locating subjects in need of rescue.
Versatility: GPS units are portable and can be used in a variety of environments, from dense forests to open water. They can also be integrated with other SAR tools, such as mapping software and drones.
Limitations of using a GPS unit are:
While GPS units are incredibly useful tools in search and rescue (SAR) operations, they do have some limitations:
Signal Obstruction: GPS signals can be blocked or weakened by dense foliage, steep terrain, buildings, or even weather conditions. This can lead to inaccurate readings or a complete loss of signal.
Battery Life: GPS units rely on batteries, which can drain quickly, especially in cold weather or with continuous use. This can be a significant issue in prolonged search operations.
Accuracy Limitations: While GPS technology is generally accurate, it can still have errors due to atmospheric conditions, satellite geometry, or the device itself. These errors can be significant in some situations.
Overreliance: Overreliance on GPS can lead to complacency and a lack of situational awareness. It’s important to remember that GPS is just a tool and should not be used as a substitute for good navigation skills and judgment.
Environmental Factors: GPS signals can be affected by magnetic fields, solar flares, and other environmental factors, potentially causing interference or inaccuracies.
Vulnerability: GPS systems are vulnerable to jamming and spoofing, which can intentionally disrupt or manipulate the signals.
Cost: High-quality GPS units with advanced features can be expensive, which may be a barrier for some SAR teams.
What lines on a map detail the change in elevation?
The lines on a map that detail the change in elevation are called contour lines. These lines connect points of equal elevation, allowing you to visualize the shape and steepness of the terrain.
Here’s how to interpret contour lines:
Closely spaced lines: Indicate a steep slope.
Widely spaced lines: Indicate a gentle slope.
Concentric circles: Represent hills or mountains.
V-shapes: Often indicate valleys or canyons, with the “V” pointing uphill.
What is the coordinate system most commonly used by aircraft and maritime vessels?
The coordinate system most commonly used by aircraft and maritime vessels is the Geographic Coordinate System (GCS), which uses latitude and longitude to define locations on the Earth’s surface.
Latitude: Measures the angle north or south of the equator, ranging from 0 degrees at the equator to 90 degrees at the poles.
Longitude: Measures the angle east or west of the prime meridian (which passes through Greenwich, England), ranging from 0 degrees at the prime meridian to 180 degrees east or west.
