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

Rescue planning involves dispatching or diverting RUs for rescue of
personnel and property in distress. SRUs at the distress scene should,
if able, rescue without delay; if they are unable, rescue planning may
be necessary to effect rescue. Rescue planning follows a logical
sequence:
1. Evaluating survivability.
2. Evaluating the environment.
3. Selecting the rescue method.
4. Selecting rescue facilities.
5. Developing an optimum rescue plan.
6. Developing an attainable rescue plan.
711 Survivability Considerations
When evaluating rescue response, survival time of personnel is the
foremost consideration. The SMC should consider injuries or other
medical conditions that might require special rescue response, such as
the need for quick recovery or specialized rescue equipment. Factors to
consider include:
A. The number of survivors.
B. The condition of survivors. If not known, assume urgent
medical attention will be required. If known, obtain a detailed
description of injuries. This will determine the need for stretchers,
oxygen, blood plasma, intravenous fluids, or other medical supplies.
C. Medical action taken by the survivors or resources at the
scene.
D. Hazardous environmental conditions.
712 Environmental Considerations
Environmental considerations are many and varied. They include:
A. Nature of environment, such as desert, arctic, ocean, or swamp.
B. Location of survivors within the environment, particularly
survivors trapped in hazardous areas.
C. Weather conditions and potential effect on rescue operations
and survivor life expectancy.
7-1