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

2. A team leader is responsible for:
a. Individual equipment.
b. Team equipment.
c. Team transportation.
d. Briefing, debriefing, and accounting for all team
members.
e. Obtaining search data and outlining search areas on
maps.
f. Execution of the search action plan.
g. Recording search coverage.
h. Providing life support and evacuation of located
survivors.
i. Obtaining primary and alternate communication
frequencies and schedules, and establishing communications
with the SMC, IC or OSC.
824 Search Execution
A. Land Search Area and Patterns. Review 830-832 for additional
search methods. Parallel-track, contour, and trackline patterns may be
used for land searching. Each search area should be well marked and
reasonably small, so the team can move in and effectively cover the
entire area within imposed time limits. Generally, the maximum area
size will be a 1-mile by 1/2-mile block. Close track spacing and
thorough area coverage are essential when searching for typical small
targets. If the area is densely wooded, helicopter SRUs may be used to
assist in maintaining the search pattern.
1. The total search area may be subdivided into SRU search areas
according to terrain. Moderately level terrain may be divided
into squares or rectangles for parallel track searches.
Contour patterns are used to search along and around peaks,
razorbacks, steep slopes, or other mountain features, or
irregular shore lines. Trackline patterns are used to check
trails, paths, streams, or other routes a lost person may
naturally follow.
2. A baseline may be blazed through the area to designate each
search area border. Trail blazing with small flags, aerosol
paint, or string is preferred over methods that damage trees.
Natural borders or prominent landmarks may be used to correct
any progressive errors that may develop during the search.