DenLeader2

I am involved with SAR in Civil Air Patrol(CAP).  CAP is the civilian auxiliary of the US Air Force.

We use cadets (12-21 yrs. old) in the SAR role.  Here are some of the issues encountered using cadets in a SAR environment.

Most agencies that are involved in SAR (police,fire, emergency management) won't deal with you if your members aren't 18 years old.  Now some support activities like communications and admin can be performed by cadets/scouts at a mission base or emergency operations center (EOC).  To be directly involved in the field on a search will take you as a scout leader having a good working relationship with the SAR folks in your area.

After your folks get all the training, then what?  I always try to temper/guide young peoples excitement about SAR to a realistic level.  Try to introduce them to CERT and SAR in a way that prepares them for the unexpected, but also ground them in the realities of how far they can take that knowledge.  In Missouri, we train to search for missing aircraft.  We don't get a lot of those missions and we tell people that.  We don't exaggerate our mission because you frustrate people they get bored and quit. 

You need to explain to your students that they are not supermen, not to run into burning buildings because they have CERT training, etc.  I have seen cadets and adults alike get a little SAR training  and show up at the next training class with a ton of very expensive gear (they are told NOT to do so of course) ready to save the world all by themselves.

I would suggest to search for a CAP squadron in your area to  train in SAR with some of there folks.  You won't have to reinvent the wheel with training materials.  They might be able to get your folks involved in a training mission.

I'm glad you are introducing your folks to CERT/SAR.  It helps people to learn to serve others and to be a part of something bigger than themselves.  Good luck. 

New to this forum.

I'm looking for a Cub Scout Sports and Academics Trophy.  The Scout Shop in St. Louis says there not available in the system.

I thought someone on this forum might have one they would like to sell.

Thanks.

John

Been a den leader for two years.  Became a den leader by making eye contact.  Enjoyed it so far.