Training Levels
When you first join, you are classified as a Boot,
because you have to start from the ground up. You can hold a some elected and
appointed positions, and take part in all meetings, trainings, fundraisers,
etc... However, Boots cannot be called
for actual searches. Before Searching you need to will acquire basic equipment needed for search and
rescue work, attend a series of regular training meetings, and participate in
training weekends.
Once you have acquired gear and completed the required initial training, as a CQ, or Call-Out Qualified, you will then be eligible to go on search and rescue missions. What this means is that you know the basics of our organization and you have completed a training checklist that includes having the necessary gear and equipment, knowledge of radio procedures, and basic search and survival skills. This also allows you to hold higher elected and appointed positions.
The next training phase is for Field Team Member (FTM). This is given to those who show a mastery of skills and pass both a practical and written test.
The final level of training for ground teams is Field Team Leader (FTL) which, among other things, means you will be responsible for an entire search team. Members can train earlier for this level but must be at least 18 years old to hold this certification.
| Main Training Levels | Estimated time it takes to earn status | Search |
| Boot | Status when new member | No |
| Call out Qualified | 3+ months | Can be on SAR team |
| Field Team Member | 1-2 years | Can be on SAR team |
| Field Team Leader | 3 years + (must be over 18) | Leads SAR teams |
Overview of Requirements to Become Call-Out Qualified
Participate in trainings covering: the role of the CQ, ASRC / MSAR policies and procedures, personal equipment and its safe and proper use, short-term survival, search tactics, personal safety, and MSAR call out procedures Participate in MSAR training weekends Complete a MSAR 24-hour pack check complete with MSAR/ASRC Uniform Function as an effective search team member on a search task Build and spend a night in both a debris shelter and a tarp shelter Consistently build a one match fire Tie an assortment of rescue knots Demonstrate the ability to: use the hand held radio with proper radio protocol, and be familiar with the phonetic alphabet. Demonstrate an appropriate level of fitness and professional, safe, and cooperative behavior Next - Gear or Back - to New Members section