In vast, rugged, or isolated areas where cellular networks are unreliable or absent, radio systems become the essential means for rescuers to coordinate their efforts, request medical or logistical assistance, and report on situational changes or mission status. Rapid, reliable communication can mean the difference between life and death for those lost or injured in the wilderness.
SAR teams use both handheld and vehicle mounted radios, chosen for their portability and dependable range in outdoor environments. These radios allow direct team-to-team contact, but their effectiveness can be limited by natural obstacles like mountains. Each team will be issued squad radios at the start of the mission.
SAR teams use preassigned channels or frequencies to avoid interference with other users such as local law enforcement or emergency services. Standard radio etiquette, such as using call signs, keeping transmissions short, using plain language, and confirming receipt of messages, helps prevent misunderstandings. Scheduled radio check-ins are performed at regular intervals to monitor the welfare and location of teams, especially those operating in hazardous or isolated conditions.
Ultimately, robust and adaptable radio communications are fundamental to the success of wilderness search and rescue. By combining the right equipment, clear protocols, interagency coordination, and ongoing training, SAR teams ensure that every voice can be heard no matter how remote the mission may be.
Radio Operations
SAR members are expected to be able to properly operate a radio and to know the squad’s reporting procedures.
Channels
VHF High Band (155-156 MHz) radio frequencies are widely utilized by local fire departments, emergency medical services, and dedicated search and rescue teams. These frequencies offer good propagation in forested and mountainous terrain, making them ideal for rural and remote deployments.
The squad’s radios are preset to designated channels. These channels are referred to by name and not by frequency.
- Graham SAR 1: Guthre Peak tower repeater.
- Graham SAR 4: Simplex.
- Graham SAR 5: Simplex.
- Graham SAR 7: Simplex.
- Graham SAR 8: Simplex.
- Graham SAR 9: Simplex.
- State SAR: Simplex.
- Graham 2H: Heliograph Peak tower repeater.
- Graham 4K: Crazy Horse tower repeater
National Search and Rescue Frequency: 155.160 MHz is recognized across the country as the primary emergency SAR channel. Also known as State SAR in Arizona. This frequency is monitored by government agencies, park rangers, and volunteer organizations, allowing for immediate response to distress calls and coordination between disparate groups. SAR organizations recommend keeping this channel clear for priority communications.
Procedures
First, select Correct Channel. Know the proper channel before leaving the squad house on a mission. Ask if necessary.
Next, think about what you are going to say: Compose your thoughts and note what information needs to be conveyed. If it is a grid write it down or enter a marker on to SAR Topo as a reference.
Listen Before Transmitting: Always listen to ensure the frequency is clear before you start talking.
Identify Yourself: Begin your transmission by identifying yourself using your call sign. The standard format is “This is” your call sign “to” receiver call sign. The call sign can also be your team number or group such as “Command” or “Team 3”.
Keep It Short and Clear: Use short, clear, and concise language. Avoid using slang or unnecessary words.
Speak Slowly and Clearly: Speak at a moderate pace and enunciate your words to avoid misunderstandings.
Acknowledge Communications: Confirm receipt of messages with an acknowledgment (e.g., “Team 1 Copies that”, “Team 1 Roger”, or “Team 2 Affirmative”).
Use Plain Language: The Federal Government has mandated in all ICS situations that first responders should use plain language. Below is a section with more information.
Employ standard radio phrases to punctuate your communications:
- “Over” – end of message
- “Out” – end of communication
- “Stand by” – wait for further instructions.
- “Break” – brief pause while speaker composes his thoughts or look at notes.
Read Back: Repeat critical information back to the sender to confirm receipt.
Radio Checks: Each team should do a radio check with command at the start of the assignment followed by regular radio checks to ensure all equipment is functioning properly.
Respect Protocol and Privacy: Always follow the established protocols and respect the privacy of communications. Use the phrase “clear for traffic” to indicate the need to talk sensitive and/or confidential information. Respond with “Go ahead with traffic.” Indicating that it is safe to convey the information. Or respond “Negative, standby.” Indicating that it is not safe to convey the information.
In extreme circumstances, use the phrase “Request coordinator support at my location” to give Command time to compose their thoughts in a worst-case scenario.
Radio Equipment
Each team should check out a Team Radio Box before leaving the command post. This box contains two radios with two spare batteries (four total in box), two GPS devices, and two headlamps. There is also a bag of AAA batteries for the headlamps and GPS.