Session Descriptions

Jump to a day:

Thursday, Oct. 13
Friday, Oct. 14
Saturday, Oct. 15
Sunday, Oct. 16

Thursday, Oct. 13

K9

K9 Trailing: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Jeff Schettler, Kelli Collins, Kevin Baughn, Luis Ledbetter, Pam Nyberg
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (1E) (Orientation/Classroom/Field Exercise)
Spanning the entire four-day conference, this extended course provides hands-on immersion into the techniques of training the scent-specific trailing dog. This is a field-based training opportunity for both K9 handler and dog that -- under the direct supervision of some of the best trailing experts in North America -- will allow participants to work through complex challenges of scent discrimination and distraction. Designed for beginning and intermediate-level dogs. Space is limited.

K9 Scent Specific Air Scent: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Jane Beson
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (2E) (Orientation/Classroom/Field Exercise)
This four-day course provides hands-on field instruction in training and working the off-lead area search K9. Under the direct supervision of expert instructors with years of experience both training and working with area search dogs, participants and their K9 partners will be mentored through exercises designed to help the dog maintain drive and focus and ensure a strong, reliable recall, alert and re-find, and to enable the handler to better read the dog's behavior and subtle body language signals that can give early clues to a lost person's location. Participants will also be introduced to the concept of scent-specific area search. Space is limited.

K9 Human Remains Detection (HRD)
Brad Dennis
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (3E) (Orientation/Classroom/Field Exercise)
This four-day course provides participants with instruction in scent theory, search theory, search safety, and K-9 first aid as it applies to the K9 HRD Team. Space is limited.

Friday, Oct. 14

KEYNOTE

KEYNOTE: Establishing A Safety Culture in SAR: Team Navigation vs. Terrain Navigation
Terry von Thaden
Airlines and military services have adopted and developed a "safety culture" to balance the paradox of high risk situations and safety. A real "safety culture" embodies a systems approach to managing risk in complex settings. It is conditioned by intricate relationships between regulatory agencies and organizations, as well as purposeful interactions among people, environments, technologies and information in multifaceted settings. In many high risk situations, balancing the complexities of safety may take a back seat to accomplishing the mission itself. This talk will focus on the culture of safety in SAR team communication -- the way information is ultimately disseminated, coordinated, and managed among decision makers -- using examples of lessons learned and best practice tools from aviation and applying them to SAR.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Terry L. von Thaden, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor at The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the Human Factors Division, with affiliate appointments in Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering, Psychology, and Information Science. Dr. von Thaden's research involves the study of information complexity and safety culture in high risk, safety critical sociotechnical systems including aviation, medical, security, and other transportation systems. Dr. von Thaden has measured the culture of safety and group alignment in numerous domestic and international aviation and medical organizations. She is the current chair of the University of Illinois' Aviation Safety Committee. She has served as an expert for the GAO and National Academy of Sciences appointed committees on aviation safety issues and makes frequent appearances on international news shows as an aviation human factors expert. She is a past Fellow of Zonta International, The Transportation Research Board, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and is a member of both the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Beta Phi Mu International Honor Society. In 2005 she received the prestigious Aerospace Human Factors Association's Stanley N. Roscoe Award for the best doctoral dissertation written in research area related to Aerospace Human Factors.

SAR Management

Preplanning and Operational Considerations for the Missing Child
John Gibson
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (session 1A)
This session is designed to assist Search Managers with developing preplans for the "missing child" search. It will also provide helpful recommendations for the actual search operation and how to network with criminal investigators to work together to locate the missing child. This will be an interactive course and experiences from the attendees will be welcome.

Considerations for Establishing a Command Post (Base Camp)
Tygh Thompson
1:30 - 3 p.m. (2A)
Search managers can never predict which missions will turn into major events. Proper planning for the Incident Command Post at the start of a mission can improve the efficiency and function of the Command Post as the incident grows. This course will present several of the issues that need to be considered at the initial onset of the mission as well as those issues that typically develop as the mission expands. Hands-on exercises will illustrate the process.

Plotting of Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM)
Corey Stone
3:30 - 5 p.m. (3A)
Students will gain the knowledge and skill to plot Universal Transverse Mercator coordinates on full size USGS 7.5 minute quadrangle maps as well as on digital source mapping printouts commonly used by SAR. Other considerations related to UTM will be highlighted that can affect how one uses a compass on a map as well. The US National Grid will also be discussed as it is the official coordinate system of FEMA for major disasters and has some significant differences from UTM. Maps and coordinate plotters will be provided for the class.

Wilderness

Can you be a Survivor?
Peter Kummerfeldt
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (1B)
What does it take to be a "survivor"? What kind of preparation is needed to be a successful survivor? What do you need to prepare for? Kummerfeldt will give you answers to all of these questions and more and will clearly identify the steps to be followed from preparation to recovery.

Weather 101: Outside in the Pacific Northwest
Mark Nelsen
1:30 - 3 p.m. (2B)
Nelson will give a basic description of our weather in the Pacific Northwest, and specific issues that affect search and rescue operations.

Spending an Inconvenient Night Out
Peter Kummerfeldt
1:30 - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
At the conclusion of this field exercise each student will be able to build a fire using cotton balls and Vaseline for tinder and the platform and brace fire building technique; use inexpensive, ready at hand materials to build protective shelters; be able to attract the attention of searchers using a purposefully made, glass signal mirror and a whistle; and assemble a survival kit that provides the equipment needed to change a life threatening night out into an inconvenient night out. This field exercise is limited to 12 participants.

I Dig Your Bones: Human Skeletal Anatomy, Human vs. Non-Human Skeletal Remains, and the Successful Recovery of Human Skeletal Remains in the Field
Dr. Nici Vance
3:30 - 5 p.m. (3B)
Dr. Vance will guide the class participants through a crash course in human skeletal anatomy and provide clues and cues regarding how to tell a human bone from a non-human skeletal element. In addition, Nici will describe the methodology employed by law enforcement personnel to successfully and thoroughly recover human skeletal remains in the field.

Technology

New Technologies for SAR Communications
David Billstrom
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (1C)
The technology of wireless data and voice communications is expanding and changing at a rapid pace, with changes driven by the FCC, local agencies and national politics. This class will provide an overview of the 2011/2012 technologies, with specific recommendations for when and how to use these technologies in SAR. We will also review the narrowband use of SAR radio channels and the emergence of new SAR radio channels in Oregon, and how this can be most effectively incorporated into SAR preplans and radio programming.

The COM-L in SAR
David Billstrom
1:30 - 3 p.m. (2C)
The Communications Unit Leader (COM-L) has long been a key member of the wild land fire incident management team (IMT), and is quickly becoming the standard for all hazardous incidents including SAR. This session will help SAR managers, sheriff's offices and emergency management offices understand the COML's role in the expanding SAR incident. We will review in detail the interoperability challenge in the SAR environment, proper use of the NIFOG, and channel plans for the SAR incident.

FLIR's Handheld Night Vision
Angelo Brewer
3:30 - 5 p.m. (3C)
Under this year's new format, the workshop combines both classroom training and field exercises to cover both the fundamentals of thermal imaging as well as the actual operation of a FLIR Handheld. Topics that will be covered include the electromagnetic spectrum, infrared cameras and optics, the benefits of thermal imaging over other night vision technologies, factors that influence image quality, and interpretation of imagery. FLIR will also host an exciting field exercise where you can apply your newly learned skills to win prizes.

Medicine

First Aid/CPR Certification
Kimberly Fuller-Peck
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (1D)
This session is a CPR & AED recertification and training update. Attendees will leave with a CPR card valid for two years. This session will include practical exercise and 2010 updates. Participants must provide valid previous certification.

Topics in Wilderness Medicine
David Landstrom
1:30 - 3 p.m. (2D)
Topics in Wilderness Medicine will be a lecture style class to visit important philosophical ideas regarding the practice of Wilderness Medicine. The class will begin with a comparison between rural and urban principles in philosophy, practice, and legal issues. Time will also be spent reviewing particular decision matrices regarding evacuation strategies, risk management strategies, reduction in PTSD, and the use of CISD. Lastly, the future of rural EMS will be discussed with the implementation of Wilderness Medicine principles.

NW Environmental Injury and Illness
David Landstrom
3:30 - 5 p.m. (3D)
NW Environmental Injury and Illness is a session focusing on common injury and illness patterns that are experienced by patients in the NW Region. Concentration will be placed on crush injuries, harness induced suspension trauma, heat illness, acute mountain sickness, wilderness dermatology, and anaphylaxis. These six topics have shown over time to be some of the more common patterns found in the care of patients in this region.

K9

K9 Trailing: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Jeff Schettler, Kelli Collins, Kevin Baughn, Luis Ledbetter, Pam Nyberg
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 1E (Thursday, Oct. 13) for description.

K9 Scent Specific Air Scent: Basic to Advanced Handlers
Jane Beson
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 2E (Thursday, Oct. 13) for description.

K9 Human Remains Detection (HRD)
Brad Dennis
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 3E (Thursday, Oct. 13) for description.

Enhanced SAR

4x4 Vehicle / Off Road Operations
Bill Burke
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (1F)
• 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Burke will demonstrate vehicle operation in technical terrain for any vehicle that requires quality skill sets -- from UTV to Tankers. This course will cover (but is not limited to) mechanical theory, vehicle dynamics, driver skills development, vehicle selection and safety issues, including recovery. Burke will highlight personal safety equipment, the Bug Out Bag, situational awareness and other issues. Classroom instruction will be followed by hands-on field exercises. Sign-ups will be available at the conference.

Tailoring Fitness Regimes to Prevent Injury for the SAR Worker
Ariel Salzman
• 1:30 - 3 p.m. (2F) (Part 1 of 2)
• 3:30 - 5 p.m. (3F) (Part 2 of 2)
In this session Dr. Salzman will instruct search-and-rescue personnel on how they can tailor exercise routines to best fit their specific disciplines. The most common SAR injuries will be reviewed -- as well as how to prevent them through proper strengthening and training techniques. Dr. Salzman will also provide information on how searchers can stay fit or raise their level of fitness to meet the constantly changing demands of SAR missions. An additional "lab" portion will allow participants to actively engage in specific training techniques. With attention also given to nutritional needs during before, during and after deployment, this course offers something for both those hoping to increase their current level of fitness and those who are already competitive athletes.

Water Rescue

IFD Dive Team and PSD Fatalities
Jerry Richert
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (1G)
In this session Huff will present the two public safety diving fatalities that the Indianapolis Fire Department Dive Team experienced and what they did to change the way they dive.

Search Considerations for Water Related Deaths
Jeff McLennan
1:30 - 3 p.m. (2G)
This 90-minute session will focus on the investigative knowledge and skills needed in a water related fatality incident. Emphasis will be given to the elements of teamwork between Search and Rescue, support personnel, EMS, law enforcement and medical examiner. A review of human physiology in drowning cases will include commonly found injuries, circumstances and artifacts. By learning what happens before, during and after a water related death, students may be better prepared for incident response, coordinating searches and in making changes that result in improved public safety. A valuable part of this presentation includes slides of actual death scenes; some photos may be graphic in nature.

Open Ocean and Inland Search and Rescue from a USCG Rescue Swimmer's Perspective
O'Brien Starr-Hollow
3:30 - 5 p.m. (3G)
This presentation includes a handful of short "Sea Stories" that help to introduce the experiences and job tasks of a rescue swimmer. These stories range from medical evacuations to ocean rescues and cover the gamut of experiences of the instructor's friends and peers in Coast Guard Search and Rescue and will provide the attendee with a clearer perspective on the strengths and limitations of Coast Guard Aviation as well as the scope of their service. The stories will lead further into the capabilities and training of Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers and some perspectives on their job and what they know and what they would like to know. Hypothermia, swift water rescue, open ocean water survival, and coastal hazards will be covered. Due to the looming danger of tsunamis and earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest, he will have a short candid talk about the Coast Guard's role in recovery and assistance, post-disaster.

Special Events

Saturday, Oct. 15

SAR Management

Reflex Tasking
Craig McClure
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (4A) Part 1 of 2
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (5A) Part 2 of 2
This session will present a short discussion of the principles of Reflex Tasking for the initial operational period followed by scenarios where students will practice generating objectives, tasks, assignments and marking maps for hasty deployments.

Search Area Segmenting for SAR Coordinators
Corey Stone
1:30 - 5 p.m. (6A)
This class will explore considerations that must be made when creating "searchable segments" for ground teams. Key items will be: natural segment borders, artificial segment borders, manmade segment borders, segment size related to resource capability, segment size and POD for a limited resource, searcher safety, terrain, vegetation, other hazards (snow, ice, and crevasses), and time necessary to search in daylight. Students will be shown examples for actual search maps and given a mathematical reference table for estimating appropriate search areas by resource level. Different tools for estimating land areas will be shown including MyTopo Terrain Navigator, which will be demonstrated to show how to determine the land area on any shape segment.

Suspending the Mission
Tygh Thompson
3:30 - 5 p.m. (7A)
Suspending a search is one of the most difficult decisions that SAR managers must make. This course will present many of the issues that must be examined when a search is not successful and the decision to suspend the mission must be made.

Wilderness

Field Expedient Personal Rope Skills and Pick Offs
Eric Hanson
9 - 10:30 a.m. (4B)
11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
This class will provide students with training and experience in some of the basic rope skills needed to safely participate in technical rescue. Principles, safety, physics and knots will be taught in a 1.5 hour classroom session. During the 6.5 hour afternoon field session, students will gain experience in belaying, rappelling, climbing essentials, fixed line safety, ascending and tandem rappel pick off rescues. A maximum of 16 students will be allowed. The classroom session is required to participate in the field sessions. Participants must provide all of the following safety items to be allowed to participate in this class: Climbing helmet, shatter resistant eye protection, leather gloves, boots (over the ankle), seat harness, 4 large locking carabiners, 6mm x 6' Prusik (pre-tied), 6mm x 10' Purcell Prusik (pre-tied), 14' x 1" tubular webbing, 20' x 1" tubular webbing.

Survival Myths and Misconceptions
Peter Kummerfeldt
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (5B)
You must know the difference between what works and what doesn't! The survival procedures and techniques recommended by the media are often untested and have little value to a person stranded in the backcountry. The skills used by aboriginal people around the world have little application when you are faced with a cold, long night out. This presentation separates fact from fiction.

Common Sense GPS for SAR Teams and Coordinators
Josh Evey
1:30 - 5:30 p.m. (6B)
A common sense look at how to use GPS, coordinate systems and maps for Search and Rescue. Beginners and intermediate users will benefit. Classroom session will be followed by a 3 hour hands-on practical field session.

Spending an Inconvenient Night Out
Peter Kummerfeldt
1:30 - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise) (Repeat)
See session description from Friday.

An Inside Look into SAR Coordination for Searchers and Non-Coordinators
Corey Stone
3:30 - 5 p.m. (7B)
In this session, Stone will give attendees an insight into common aspects of search coordination and the theory and science that goes into search planning. The discussion will begin with the initial call and progress to the mission resolution or suspension. Topics will emphasize aspects of search planning and operations that are typically out of sight to the searcher.

Technology

Radio-Over-IP (ROIP) for Public Safety
David Billstrom and Craig McClure
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (4C)
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
• 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. (Continued Field Exercise)
The military has embraced the use of ROIP for battlefield and logistics voice communications, and it is rapidly gaining momentum in public safety. It is the basis of statewide VHF and 800 MHz radio systems in Washington (Fish & Wildlife) and Ohio (Air Medical EMS), as well as the largest ROIP system in the U.S. -- a 14-state air medical dispatch operation. This class will explain what ROIP is, why and how it is used, and examine three large systems to see both the advantages and limitations of this technology. Technologies from various vendors will be reviewed. See also the optional field exercise "ROIP Deployment in SAR."

The Cospas-Sarsat System and Satellite Distress Alerting Beacons
Paul Steward
11 - 12:30 p.m. (5C)
This session will give an overview of the current Cospas-Sarsat satellite distress alerting system and its use in the United States. It will also describe the variety of beacons used in the system (EPIRBs, ELTs and PLBs) including explanation of the 406 MHz alerting frequency, the 121.5 MHz homing frequency and the use of embedded GPS and what happens when one of these beacons is activated. There will also be a comparison of these beacons' functionality as compared to other technologies available. There will also be information provided on the latest Cospas-Sarsat direction finding technologies for SAR personnel.

Advanced Satellite Communications Technology
Donnie Hatch
1:30 - 3 p.m. (6C)
This seminar covers the latest in advance satellite technology and the growing application in communications, logistics, location-based services and search and rescue.

Using Technology at SAR Base
Scott Ballard
3:30 - 5 p.m. (7C)
In this session Ballard will discuss how technology can be used to assist the overall SAR mission. Best practices for your communications team, tracking resources, documenting radio traffic and clues, tracking devices, and the use of portable repeaters and cellular tracking will be some of the topics covered.

Medicine

Field Recognition and Treatment of Immersion Hypothermia
Dr. Kevin Walters
9 - 10:30 a.m. (4D)
Dr. Walters will provide attendees with an understanding of the signs and symptoms of immersion hypothermia, as well as the steps to take to render initial care and stabilization in the field setting.

Field Recognition and Treatment of Diving Injuries
Dr. Kevin Walters
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (5D)
In this session, Dr. Walters will provide attendees with a basic understanding of diving injuries, how to recognize them and provide initial care and stabilization in the field setting.

Patient Packaging
Robert Glaeser
• 1:30 - 3 p.m. (6D) Part 1 of 2
• 3:30 - 5 p.m. (7D) Part 2 of 2
The Patient Packaging class will be hands-on instruction in the safe and efficient packaging of a patient within various wilderness rescue environments. The class will focus on small group participation regarding packaging techniques that emphasize patient stabilization, comfort, and access for continuous medical assessment during evacuation. Instruction will be in the following categories: Hyper/hypothermia packaging, Stokes litter packaging, use of the S.K.E.D. device, integration of splinting devices, basic knots, carrying techniques, and extended stay considerations. This will also be a time to examine different first aid kits in addition to packaging supplies. Outdoor participation may occur to simulate real life conditions.

K9

Enhanced SAR

4x4 Vehicle / Off Road Operations
Bill Burke
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (4F) (Repeat)
• 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
See session 1F for description.

Future Criminal Hazards for Searchers - Clandestine Drug Labs / Hazardous Dumpsites / Marijuana Grow Sites / Explosives - Recognition, Awareness and Safety
William Behan and James Rhodes
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (5F)
Attendees will be presented with current photos, videos and hands on examples of items associated with the criminal hazards facing field searchers today. Lt. William Behan and Sgt. James Rhodes will relate their experience regarding drug culture and current trends in organized crime that could impact searchers as they have incidental contact with these criminal activities. This seminar will leave attendees better educated and equipped to recognize criminal hazards in the field, more aware of current drug and criminal trends and better prepared to safely survive those encounters.

Rope Rescue: A Brief History of the Future
Mathew Adams
1:30 - 3 p.m. (6F)
A presentation on the current marvels, present limitations and future opportunities in rope rescue equipment and techniques. This class will explore cutting edge technology in rope rescue, including emerging advances in mechanical and technical systems for rescue and recovery. Hands on examples and expert instruction will be provided by an instructor who currently works in this field.

Dealing with Families in Crisis as it Relates to Search and Rescue
Nancy Rigg
3:30 - 5 p.m. (7F)
Nancy Rigg speaks from sincere personal experience. The subjects of search and rescue missions are not the only victims of these events. Oftentimes the subjects' family members are overlooked or unrecognized as true victims of the event as well. Nancy Rigg will speak with deep personal conviction about the importance of dealing with these family members. She will provide insight and tactics for relating with affected families.

FIELD CLASS: Operating Chainsaws Safely
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (FIELD CLASS)
Jay Larsen
This class will cover safe chainsaw use from proper starting methods to basic saw maintenance, hands-on cutting techniques to minimize kickback and bar pinching, proper field clothing, and ear and eye protection. In addition, the course will cover the basics of saw chain, guide bar, and drive sprocket identification, applications, and maintenance.
The course is designed for people with limited or no chainsaw experience. Tree falling is not covered in this course. All equipment is provided. The field class is limited to 15 participants.

Water Rescue

Managing Large Water Rescue Operations
Dick Rice
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (4G) Part 1 of 2
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (5G) Part 2 of 2
Dick Rice will present new objectives and strategies based on lessons learned from recent responses. As recognized by NIMS, building a response based on "GO" in rescue boat is essential -- providing tools and tactics for a more effective water-rescue management from the top down. The presentation will include both PowerPoint and hands-on practicals in the classroom.

Basic Whitewater Safety and Survival
Scott Walker and David Elle
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Search and Rescue professionals often find themselves working near waterways and should know what to do if they or someone else falls in. This full-day course will cover basic water hydrology and its effects on a person in the water. It will go over selection and fitting of basic equipment searchers working near waterways should consider. It includes actual in-water exercises -- which will teach basic self and buddy rescue techniques. This course is physically demanding, as students will hike across rocky areas and swim. Students are encouraged to bring their own equipment and must bring thermal wear, preferably wool/fleece. Suits, headgear, gloves and boots will be provided. This field exercise covers NFPA awareness level. Class is limited to 14 participants. Please provide suit, glove and shoe sizes when registering.

Setting Up Water Teams for Success in Safety
Dr. Kevin Walters
1:30 - 3 p.m. (6G)
In this session, Dr. Walters will discuss how water rescue teams including dive, swiftwater, and boat teams can set up to be safe. Topics will include training, procedure, attitude, and documentation. Prevention is best but teams must also recognize problems when they occur and effectively deal with them. The course will give you ideas and concepts to set up for safety.

Open Ocean and Inland Search and Rescue from a USCG Rescue Swimmer's Perspective
O'Brien Starr-Hollow
3:30 - 5 p.m. (7G)
See session 3G for description.

Open Ocean and Inland Search and Rescue from a USCG Rescue Swimmer's Perspective
O'Brien Starr-Hollow
3:30 - 5 p.m. (7G)
See session 3G for description.

Special Events

Static Display (All Day):
The 304th Rescue Squadron, Portland Air National Guard
The 304th Rescue Squadron, Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore., is part of the Air Force Reserve Command. Its primary mission is to provide civil and combat search and rescue capability in any environment. The 304th trains, equips and employs Combat Rescue Officers (CROs) and Pararescuemen (PJs) for local, national and worldwide rescue operations. CROs and PJs are among the most highly trained medical and rescue specialist in the military. They maintain EMT-Paramedic qualification, skills and equipment to provide rescue in the world's most remote areas. They live by the motto "That Others May Live" and stand ready to provide this capability to the Pacific Northwest. At SARCON 2011 the 304th Survival specialist and Pararescuemen intend to provide training and introduction to survival skills, medical procedures and unmanned aerial systems (UAV's) as they apply to the civil SAR environment.

1:30 - 3:30 p.m. (Field Exercise):
The 1042nd Oregon Army National Guard
The 1042nd Oregon Army National Guard is a federally mandated and equipped military organization under the civilian direction of the Oregon Military Department, with the Governor of Oregon as its Commander in Chief. It responds to state and national emergencies, military conflicts and natural disasters, and conducts search and rescue operations. The 1042nd Army National Guard has provided air support and ambulance services in the State of Oregon and typically responds to the scene with UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters specially equipped for search and rescue response. The 1042nd will be conducting a hoisting demonstration and will also have a static display. Personel will cover topics such as patient pickup and helicopter safety.

Sunday, Oct. 16

SAR Management

Missing At Risk: Understanding and Managing the Search for the Missing At Risk Alzheimer's and Dementia Subject
Kimberly Kelly
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (8A) Part 1 of 2
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (9A) Part 2 of 2
This is a comprehensive couse designed for law enforcement search and rescue, fire/EMS/public safety personnel, senior care facilities or caregivers who may encounter, or search for, a missing dementia subject. Because so much of the AD subject's lost person behavior manifests directly into actions in the field, searchers must clearly understand the disease process. "Missing At Risk" walks the student through the progression of the disease, and how that progression, and its related behaviors, so dramatically affect search management for these subjects. Students learn, through use of audio, video, hands-on examples and actual searches, how to determine whether a subject may be suffering from Alzheimer's (or related dementias); how to properly interview family and caregivers; how to manage the search incident; facts and myths of the AD search; search methods and techniques as well as use of canines, dive teams, trackers, and medical considerations specific to the AD search; how to approach an AD subject in the field, and more. It is only by understanding this disease, and how it manifests, that we can properly search for, and successfully locate, these subjects. Education is power, and this course clearly and methodically teaches you how to properly harness the power of your teams to better manage the search for missing Alzheimer's and dementia subjects. It is this we do, so that others may live.

Lat Long and Township and Range Plotting for SAR
Corey Stone
1:30 - 3 p.m. (10A)
Students will gain the knowledge and skill to plot Latitude and Longitude coordinates on full size USGS 7.5 minute quadrangle maps as well as discuss Lat Long plotting in digital mapping software. Coordinates will be in Degrees, Minutes, Seconds, as well as Degrees, Minutes, Decimals of Minutes. This is crucial for interfacing with aircraft that operate exclusively in Lat Long. The class will also give the students the knowledge and skill to plot Township and Range coordinates on full size USGS 7.5 minute quadrangle maps to an accuracy of 2.5 acres. Maps and coordinate plotters will be provided for the class.

Goals, Objectives, Strategies, and Tasks - The Planning Foundation
Craig McClure
3:30 - 5 p.m. (11A)
This session will be an interactive discussion in the importance defining -- and the distinct difference between -- goals, objectives, strategies, and tasks. Mastery of these concepts is the foundation for successful search management and the building blocks for advanced theory.

Wilderness

Precision Compass Operation for SAR
Corey Stone
• 9 - 10:30 a.m. (8B)
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
This session will give the student the skills to shoot and take bearings with a mirrored base plate compass accurately by using the features of the compass to ensure consistency in all conditions. The student will also use the compass to orient a map magnetically and use it as a protractor to determine single bearings on a map as well as bearings between two points. Students are encouraged to bring their own suitable compass, or one will be provided for the duration of the class. Maps will also be provided. The field session portion of this session will provide a practical application of the proper operation of the mirrored base plate compass. Simple exercises that students can replicate for their own teams will be used to practice the fundamentals of consistent accuracy. Particular emphasis will be given to trouble shooting errors in the technique of others.

What's New
Peter Kummerfeldt
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (9B)
In this session Kummerfeldt will discuss new equipment, demonstrate new techniques and explain the new thinking on the process of surviving and survival. Attendees of this session will be on the cutting edge of modern outdoor safety.

SAR Knife Safety
Chris Kent
1:30 - 3 p.m. (10B)
Due to the overall needs for knives in all aspects of Search and Rescue, it's important to understand their many diverse uses while working safely. This course will cover why we need knives in SAR, general knife safety, knife anatomy, how we use knives in SAR, knife laws in OR and WA, and covers other tools like saws and machetes.

Spending an Inconvenient Night Out
Peter Kummerfeldt
1:30 - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise) (Repeat)
See session description from Friday.

Crime Scene Preservation: Transitioning from SAR Scene to Crime Scene
Wendi Babst
3:30 - 5 p.m. (11B)
If in the course of a search evidence emerges that a crime has been committed, search and rescue personnel must take appropriate steps to preserve it -- increasing the likelihood that the case can be successfully investigated and the person responsible will be brought to justice. Taught by a law enforcement veteran, this session will give searchers the skills they need to accomplish this goal.

Technology

GPS Operation
Ben Corrado
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (8C) Part 1 of 2
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (9C) Part 2 of 2
• 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
GPS Operation will go over the usage of many modern Garmin GPS units used in SAR operations. Topics will include: Components of GPS/ NAVSTAR, Features & Operation of the GPS Unit, Mapping & Cartography, Navigation with a GPS Unit and a Map, and Using a GPS in Public Safety Operations. The course will help to solidify the operation of the GPS. GPS based navigation, coordinate reference system and DATUM changes, GPS and compass combined exercises, GPS to map transfers, waypoint marking and GPS co-ordinate transfer over a radio will be practiced. Participants will be put in 3 person teams and navigate a unique course that uses many complex GPS operations used in the classroom training.

The Cospas-Sarsat System and Satellite Distress Alerting Beacons
Paul Steward
1:30 - 3 p.m. (10C)
See session 5C for description.

Advanced Cell Tracking For SAR Managers
Russ Gubele
3:30 - 5 p.m. (11C)
Advanced cellular tracking is a class intended for SAR managers and incident commanders. The non-technical approach will walk the student through a step-by-step process for tracking all types of cellular phones -- from pre-paid to OnStar. The session is specifically oriented to SAR. Included are tips and tricks and case reviews.

Medicine

Fracture and Dislocation Management
Carrie Friend, Johndavid "JD" Storn
• 9 - 10:30 a.m. (8D) Part 1 of 2
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (9D) Part 2 of 2
The Fracture and Dislocation Management class is aimed at giving a BLS Provider the tools to appropriately assess and manage the full complement of extremity fractures/dislocations in the wilderness environment. The class will be team taught by two experienced Paramedics in order to implement a small group atmosphere and maximize hands on time with the various techniques. Techniques include the use of commercial immobilization devices as well as improvisation techniques. Injury patterns included in the lesson are as follows: Spinal immobilization; NEXUS criteria, extremity fractures: dislocation of the shoulder, hip, and patella; as well as pelvic stabilization. In addition, time will be spent on the assessment and management of athletic injuries that may occur to First Responders while working in the field.

Case Reviews of NW Rescues
SAR Technician/Paramedic Panel
1:30 - 3 p.m. (10D)
This will be a roundtable-style presentation of rescues that have taken place on and around the Mt. Hood area. Each presentation will provide a different aspect of Wilderness Medicine and its implications on patient care. Topics may include BLS care situations, intricate extrications, or advanced care.

SAR Physician Panel
3:30 - 5 p.m. (11D)
The SAR Physician Panel will be a good opportunity for responders to ask questions regarding the SAR environment. It will also be an opportunity for physicians to talk about what their expectations are as well as give clinical advice to our work done in the pre-hospital wilderness care environment. The physicians will also be able to answer questions regarding national and international disaster response issues. The panel will include an assortment of physicians from the local trauma centers, educational hospitals, and pediatric facilities. All have vast experience in treating patients in the remote pre-hospital setting in addition to mentoring/facilitating emergency response programs.

K9

Enhanced SAR

4x4 Vehicle / Off Road Operations -- Advanced
Bill Burke
• 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (8F)
• 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Burke will demonstrate advanced vehicle operation in technical terrain for any vehicle that requires quality skill sets -- from UTV to Tankers. This session is ideal for those who have already completed previous instruction with Burke, and are ready for more advanced training. Classroom instruction will be followed by hands-on field exercises. Sign-ups will be available at the conference.

Future Criminal Hazards for Searchers - Clandestine Drug Labs / Hazardous Dumpsites / Marijuana Grow Sites / Explosives - Recognition, Awareness and Safety (Repeat)
William Behan and James Rhodes
11 - 12:30 p.m. (9F)
See session 5F for description.

Tailoring Fitness Regimes to Prevent Injury for the SAR Worker (Repeat)
Ariel Salzman
• 1:30 - 3 p.m. (10F) (Part 1 of 2)
• 3:30 - 5 p.m. (11F) (Part 2 of 2)
See sessions 2F and 3F for description.

Water Rescue

IFD Dive Team and PSD Fatalities
Jerry Richert
9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (8G)
See session 1G for description.

Shallow Water Crossing for SAR
Scott Walker and David Elle
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Field Exercise)
Search and Rescue professionals frequently encounter shallow creeks, streams, and other water bodies in assigned search areas. Crossing them can be challenging, and there are often hidden dangers. This all-day field exercise will focus on a variety of safe shallowwater crossings. It will expose attendees to several water-crossing techniques -- practicing not only safe crossing methods, but also methods for safely moving victims across. This course is physically demanding, including hiking and actual water crossings. Students are encouraged to bring their own equipment and must bring thermal wear, preferably wool/ fleece. Suits, headgear, gloves and boots will be provided. Please provide suit and shoe sizes when registering. Class is limited to 14 participants. Prerequisite: This course requires previous attendance of the "Basic River Safety and Survival" course (during this or previous years) or proof of similar course completion.

Stray Electrical Current in Waterways
Kevin Ritz
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (9G)
Drowning or electrocution due to the presence of AC current in the water is an insidious danger unique to fresh-water environments. It is a serious potential threat to life and to property. Many lives have been lost. There is absolutely no warning that this danger exists. The amount of AC current in the water that can result in a drowning is incredibly small. In this session, Ritz will provide a clear understanding of the dynamics of Electric Shock Drowning; clarify the difference between a "hot" dock and a "hot" boat; demonstrate how to provide a safe investigative approach; discuss corrective measures that will prevent these electric shock hazards; and provide resource and equipment information.

Whitewater Accidents: A Kayaker's Perspective
Dr. Steve Cameron
1:30 - 3 p.m. (10G)
Dr. Cameron provides a unique and exciting view of whitewater accidents from his lifelong journey in whitewater kayaking. This course provides a valuable insight to anyone involved in water rescue operations to understand the unique types of rescue scenarios they may encounter and rescue techniques that may be used.

Whitewater Accidents: A Kayaker's Perspective (Repeat)
Dr. Steve Cameron
3:30 - 5 p.m. (11G)
See session 10G for description.

Special Events

1:30 - 3:30 p.m. (Field Exercise)
U.S. Coast Guard
Weather and availability permitting, an aircrew from U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria will be in attendance on Sunday with an MH-60J Jayhawk helicopter. The unit completes an average of 450 search-and-rescue missions each year. During their visit to Northwest SARCon, the aircrew will provide a one-hour briefing regarding Coast Guard search and rescue, general helicopter operations, helicopter safety and hoisting techniques. Following this briefing, the helicopter will conduct hoist training and hover demonstration.

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