Cellular phones can be a valuable tool in SAR operations, but their effectiveness depends on proper procedures and an understanding of their limitations. The following guidelines outline recommended practices for using cellular phones during SAR missions.
The primary communication tool for the squad is the radios. Use Cell phones as a backup to radios or when discussing sensitive subjects where radios may be monitored.
Ensure all SAR team members have fully charged phones and portable power banks before deployment. Also remember that phones are being used for SAR Topo. Limit non-essential phone use to preserve battery life and network availability.
Maintain current contact numbers in your phone for other squad members and the Sheriff’s office coordinator.
Follow establish communication protocols as if using a radio, including frequency of check-ins. Use text messaging as texts may transmit even with weak signals. Call only if the urgency or situation requires it. Use clear, concise language during calls; confirm receipt of critical information. The use of text messages helps by keeping a written log that can be referred to later.
A communications coordinator at the command post will be assigned to manage incoming and outgoing calls, relay information, and maintain a log of communications.
Cellular Phone Operations
Effective use of cell phones in remote areas requires specific strategies due to coverage limitations and environmental challenges.
Preparation and Equipment
- Ensure all team members carry fully charged cellular phones and backup power sources, such as portable battery packs or solar chargers.
- Preload important contact numbers and SAR Topo on each device.
- Familiarize yourself with the cellular coverage maps for the target area, noting potential dead zones and high-ground locations where signals are more likely to be available.
Operational Guidelines
- Upon arrival at the search area, test cellular connectivity and identify locations with the strongest signal for use as communication hubs.
- Use text messaging whenever possible, as SMS often requires less signal strength than voice calls and may succeed when calls fail.
- Limit phone use to essential communication to conserve battery life and turn off non-critical apps and services.
Emergency Communication Strategies
- If no signal is available, move to higher ground or clearings to improve reception. Avoid deep valleys or dense forests where signal loss is common.
- When coverage is spotty, attempt to send brief “ping” messages or location coordinates, as even intermittent signal can allow short data transmissions.
- Use phone settings to enable Wi-Fi calling if a wireless network is available in the area.
Limitations and Contingencies
- Recognize that cellular phones are not substitutes for dedicated two-way radios or satellite communication devices in areas with unreliable coverage.
- Always include alternative communication methods in your SAR plan, such as satellite messengers, personal locator beacons (PLBs), or ham radios.
- Document communication attempts for post-operation review and to assist in ongoing search coordination.
By following these guidelines, SAR teams can maximize the effectiveness of cellular phones, ensure reliable communication and enhance safety during wilderness operations.
Cellular Phone Messaging
When using cell phones during a wilderness search and rescue mission, use text messaging first unless the situation is urgent or life-threatening. Text messages often go through in weak service areas when voice calls fail, and they use less battery power.
Keep messages point-to-point: send the message from you directly to the intended receiver. Avoid unnecessary group messages unless the information needs to go to the whole team or command post.
Use the same discipline as radio communication to be brief, clear, and to the point. Include only the information needed for the receiver to understand the situation and take action.
Respond when able, even if it is only a short acknowledgement such as “Received,” “Copy,” or “Stand by.” Do not rely on emojis, reactions, or slang for operational communication.
Recommended Message Format
When sending a field text, include the team identifier, location, status, need, and time. A simple format is: “Team 2 at UTM/grid/location. Status: all OK. Found tracks heading northeast. Need: direction from command. Time: 1435.”
- Identify who is sending the message.
- Give a clear location using GPS coordinates, map grid, trail name, landmark, or last known point reference. Drop a marker on SAR Topo.
- State the situation plainly: found clue, no clue, subject located, injury, hazard, route blocked, or team status.
- Say what you need: instructions, medical support, evacuation assistance, transport, or no action required.
- Add the time of the observation or event, especially if service is delayed and the message may be sent later.
Urgent or Emergency Use
Use a voice call, radio call, satellite communicator, or emergency beacon immediately if there is an immediate threat to life, a serious injury, a located subject needing urgent care, worsening weather, fire, flood, aggressive wildlife, or any condition that may trap or endanger the team.
If a text is used for urgent traffic, begin the message with “URGENT” or “EMERGENCY” and keep the message short. Example: “EMERGENCY Team 3 located subject at GPS coordinates. Subject conscious, possible broken ankle, hypothermia risk. Need medical and evacuation support. Time 1610.”
Check-Ins and Accountability
Follow the mission communication plan for scheduled check-ins. Send a text message if radio contact is lost. Report location, status, and progress. Missed check-ins should be treated seriously and followed up through radio, phone, relay team, or command procedures.
Backup Communication
Cell phones should not be the primary communication method in wilderness terrain. Teams should follow the mission communication plan and use assigned radios, repeaters, satellite communicators, or relay points as directed. Terrain, canyons, heavy timber, distance from towers, and weather can all reduce or block cell service.