The Stokes “Statewide” SAREX 2025 event will be a multi-operational period exercise that will allow for daytime and night-time missions which should allow searchers and teams to practice multiple roles, skills, and tactics during the event.

The Incident Management Team managing the event will assign teams to missions based upon situational awareness, clues, and information received back from search teams.

Search missions should allow the search teams the opportunity to practice the following search techniques.

Ground Search Methods:

• Hasty Search: rapid search in areas of high probability.

• Line Search: Teams search in parallel lines at a set distance.

• Grid Search (open & closed): Divide the search area into grids and search each systematically.

• Area Search: Focus on specific areas based on clues (last known location, footprints, etc.).

• Tracking/sign cutting: Following sign

Teams may likely be combined with other resources to create Strike Teams and/or Task Forces to accomplish certain missions. Examples may include:

K9 Search: Utilize trained search dogs for enhanced detection capabilities. 

• Air Scent

• Tracking/Trailing 

• Human Remains Detection (HRD)

Aerial Search: 

• Aircraft: Employ aircraft (helicopters, fixed wing) for rapid area coverage and subject spotting. 

• Drones: Utilize drones for reconnaissance, mapping, and subject location.

Important Notes:

• These roles may be combined or adjusted depending on the size and complexity of the search mission.

• All team members should have basic wilderness survival skills, first aid training, and knowledge of search and rescue techniques. 

• Effective communication and teamwork are essential for a successful land search.