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

for helicopters in remote regions or far out at sea.
B. Fixed-wing Aircraft can transport survivors to the landing
area. Specially configured aircraft for medical evacuation are ideal
for long-range transportation of seriously injured survivors. They
maybe able to land and take off from the surface at or near the incident
site. Aircraft with aerial delivery systems are excellent for
delivering supplies and equipment to survivors. Aircraft having bomb
bays or exterior racks capable of carrying droppable containers or
packages of survival stores are also usable. Other aircraft not
designed for dropping operations may have to be used. The position of
hatches and doors, the ease with which doors may be removed, and the
ability to operate at low air speeds are factors that will affect
selection.
C. Marine Craft or various types may be appropriate. High-speed
boats can transport survivors form rescue vessels near shore to the
delivery point. When a rescue is made by a vessel with limited
treatment facilities, it is sometimes necessary to locate another with
better medical facilities and transfer survivors in need of treatment.
It also may be necessary to transfer survivors in need of
hospitalization from the RU to another vessel inbound.
D. Ambulances, properly equipped, are usually selected for shortrange
land transport when helicopters are unavailable. Ambulances are
satisfactory when traffic conditions are light and suitable roads are
available between the distress scene and emergency care center. Land
transportation is subject to traffic tie-ups.
E. Ground Rescue Teams can reach the distress scene in a remote
area inaccessible to helicopter or ambulance. Local, State, and county
authorities normally have jurisdiction and should provide trained ground
parties. Properly trained ground parties area preferred to evacuate
injured survivors.
730 PLANNING FOR RESCUES IN DIFFICULT ENVIRONMENTS
Certain geographical areas with unique terrain, weather, or
accessibility conditions pose special considerations.
A. Arctic environments present a difficult rescue situation.
Harsh weather, sparse population, and a lack of natural food and shelter
make extended survival doubtful. Extreme cold, snow, ice, and lack of
bases for rescue operations further complicate survivor recovery.
Unless otherwise known, it should be assumed that personnel stranded in
arctic areas lack the physical ability, equipment, and necessary skills
for survival. Rescue planning should begin early during the search.
Once the distress site is found, the means of rescue should be
determined. Aerial evacuation is normally preferable. Where rescue is
by land party, logistical support will usually be by aerial delivery.
Continuous air coverage should be maintained for any land RU dispatched
until recovery is effected.