Virginia Search and Rescue Dog Association
A member of the American Rescue Dog Association
Member Training
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Search Team Operations (STO)
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Search Team Leader (STL)
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Tracking Team Operations (TTO)
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Management Team Operations (MTO)
FEMA National Incident Management System (NIMS)
FEMA offers the National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS was developed so responders from different jurisdictions and disciplines can work together better to respond to natural disasters and emergencies, including acts of terrorism.
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ICS 200: Basic ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incident (Required for STL)
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ICS 700: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System
Other Member Requirements
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Current CPR and First Aid (or higher)
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Criminal background check (conducted by VSRDA)
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Land Navigation written and practical (conducted by VSRDA)
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3 mile hike fitness test
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Body fluid exposure prevention (must be through VASARCO)
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Overnight Bivouac
Other Training Links
Index
Note: Classes in bold are required for call-out qualification.
Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM)
The following classes run during VDEM's Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) Academy. GSAR courses typically run at least twice a year. The course lasts for 2 non-consecutive weekends and usually offers meals and sleeping arrangements. You must be affiliated with a Virginia SAR group to sign up for courses. The courses fill up quickly, so when registration opens, do not hesitate. There is no dog involvement at GSAR.
Self Care and Wellness
Tick-Borne Illness
Lyme Disease is major concern for any wilderness SAR personnel (especially on the East Coast!), we’ve posted some educational information about it. The following article will discuss ticks and Lyme disease, in both humans and canines. Read more about tick-borne Illness and prevention here.