Control measure Have clearly defined area of operations
Control measure knowledge
To carry out a co-ordinated search plan, the best way of defining and subdividing the search area should be considered. Once designated, search teams should confirm this, and provide regular updates to the incident commander.
Establish clearly defined parameters of the search area and subdivide into appropriate sizes depending on:
- Structure
- Terrain
- Natural features
- Type and size of transport involved
- Available resources
If visibility is reduced, or at night, give additional consideration to using safe routes and landmarks.
Strategic actions
Fire and rescue services should:
- Ensure incident commanders understand the principles of search co-ordination
Tactical actions
Incident commanders should:
Implement a co-ordinated search plan, define parameters and sub-divide the area where necessary
Develop a plan based on Locate, Access, Stabilise, Transport (LAST) principles