VSRDA Team Capabilities

Every VSRDA team member, at a minimum, is required to:

• acquire/maintain a current Advanced First Aid and CPR certifications
• attend classes in search strategy & tactics and scent theory
• learn radio communications and etiquette
• certify as a Field Team Member, FTM, per the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM).

Each VSRDA canine handler and dog team, at a minimum, is required to test and pass:

1. written land navigation
2. practical land navigation
3. learn radio communications and etiquette
4. pack check
5. K9 open field evaluation
6. K9 trail evaluation
7. K9 light brush evaluation
8. K9 light brush/night evaluation
9. K9 dense brush evaluation
10. K9 agility evaluation
11. K9 obedience evaluation
12. K9 wilderness operational readiness evaluation

All K-9 handlers carry medical kits, supplies and equipment necessary to sustain long periods of search work in isolated wilderness areas.

Each VSRDA search management and overhead staff member, at a minimum, is required to test and pass:

1. written land navigation
2. practical land navigation
3. certification Managing Land Search Operations, MLSO, per the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM).
4. certification Practical Search Operations, PSO, per the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM).