JP 3-50 National Search and Rescue Manual Vol I - US Navy

2. Alert SAR facilities of a possible mission but do not dispatch
SRUs immediately.
3. Investigate further either the validity of the incident or the
degree of SAR system support needed.
B. SRU selection is determined by case evaluation, SRU
availability and distance from scene, and their capability of providing
rapid and effective SAR services:
1. Aircraft normally provide better search platforms because they
can cover an area more quickly and effectively.
2. Helicopters may provide the quickest form of assistance when
recovery and transport to a medical facility are needed.
3. Boats and land vehicles can provide quick response close to
their geographical location, and normally have more survivor
space and unique SAR capabilities.
470 COMMUNICATION SEARCHES
SMCs conduct communication searches when facts are needed to
supplement initially reported information. SRU movement to check
potential areas of craft location may be necessary. Communication
searches continue efforts to contact the craft, determine whether the
craft is overdue or simply unreported, better define the search area,
and obtain more information for determining subsequent SAR action. The
two types of communication searches are the preliminary communication
search (PRECOM) and the extended communication search (EXCOM). They are
usually conducted sequentially.
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