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

effective action, the First RCC should, until the responsible
RCC makes alternative arrangements, retain SAR coordination,
maintain communications with the casualty, alert shipping in
the vicinity of the distress, and seek assistance from other
RCCs if appropriate.
5. If the distress situation is outside any established SRR, the
First RCC should assume SAR coordination. If another RCC
appears better able to take responsibility, inform that RCC of
the alert and request it to assume coordination. If accepted,
proceed as in paragraphs 4.b. and 4.c. above. If declined,
proceed as in paragraph 4.d. above.
C. The RCC controller is the SAR Coordinator's duty officer, and
is the predesignated SMC for most SAR missions. The RCC controller
automatically acts as SMC for all SAR missions until relieved, or until
another SMC is assigned. When another SMC is designated by the SAR
Coordinator for a specific mission, the RCC controller monitors that
mission to ensure that established policies are followed. The RCC
controller has the full operational authority of, and is accountable to,
the SAR Coordinator and should always be prepared to take immediate
action.
1. The RCC controller should be fully qualified to perform SMC
duties before being assigned to RCC watches. A controller
should be thoroughly familiar with the National SAR Manual,
local SAR plans, and the communications capabilities in the
area. A controller should maintain an effective and efficient
RCC watch, and be able to rapidly perform all functions
required, often without complete information or advice from
seniors.
2. RCC Controllers should:
a. Be familiar with available lines of communication,
including parent agencies, other Military Services, civilian
agencies, law enforcement agencies, and commercial sources.
b. Be familiar with geographic features of the SRR, such
as terrain heights, hazards to low-level aircraft searches,
navigational aids, and water depths, and the capabilities,
limitations, and recommended use of available facilities.
c. Upon reporting for duty,
(1) Receive a complete briefing, including past,
present, and forecast weather, from the relieved
watch.
(2) Review all entries in the SAR Operations Log
pertaining to ongoing missions, unsuccessful
missions closed during the past 24 hours, and any
other items requiring action.