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

D. Time of day, particularly how darkness may affect a rescue
attempt.
E. Environmental constraints on RU use, such as boat drift, need
for a four-wheel drove vehicle, or lack of a landing or hoisting area.
713 Selection of Rescue Method
Selecting the rescue method usually depends on the environment on
scene and survivor number and condition. Selection of a rescue method
is sometimes left to the discretion of the OSC or SRU. However, the SMC
usually develops a rescue plan, and coordinates its execution if needed.
714 Selection of Rescue Facilities
A. SMCs should consult with parent agencies to determine RU
capabilities and limitations to rescue and transport survivors. Time
delay in reaching the scene and schedule of availability area also prime
considerations. If possible, at least one RU should be selected that
can both search for, and rescue, survivors.
B. The nature of the incident also influences RU selection.
Considerations include:
1. Special medical services needed, such as a heart attack care
unit.
2. Special equipment requirements, such as fire fighting
equipment or hoist capability.
3. Number of survivors needing transport.
4. Communications capabilities.
5. Special rescue techniques or trained personnel, such as a cave
rescue team, as required by the environment, or qualified
rescue swimmers, as required by the condition of the
survivors.
715 Special Medical Considerations
If survivors are known or suspected to be injured, the delivery of
trained medical personnel to the scene is an important consideration.
A. Helicopter transport of medical personnel is preferred in both
inland and maritime missions. While ground vehicles or marine craft
might be used, both are relatively slow and subject to limited access
routes.
B. When helicopters are not available or capable of reaching the
scene, use of specialized RU such as a pararescue or mountain rescue
team should be considered. When search operations are in remote areas,
it may be desirable to carry such a team in an SRU. The capabilities of