Team Leader Training Communications Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association

Communications Awareness of role of communications during an incident Objectives Awareness of role of communications during an incident Radio Operations Satellite and Cell Phones Alerting Technologies Emerging Communication Technologies

Communications As a team leader, you must ensure efficient communications between your team members Note taking is an important element in the documentation of communications and is covered in Section 1.7

Communications - Role Communication is vital in ground search and rescue (GSAR)but is one of the hardest elements to monitor As a team leader, you need to know how the equipment functions and proper communication protocols so that you can supervise a radio operator and assist them when problems arise

Radio Operations Ensure radios are properly set up Ensure radio operator is maintaining a log Ensure radio operator is keeping you apprised of information coming in

Satellites and Cell Phones Keep control over personal phones as per team protocol / policy Keep informed about this technology and coverage in your area Talk to team members about when and why they might be used

Alerting Technologies Keep informed of how this technology is evolving, as there may be a requirement to search for someone using this equipment Understand Emergency Beacons Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) SPOT

Emerging Technologies Keep informed in how this technology is evolving Know the limitations of existing technologies and look for new solutions Understand the importance of backing up new technology until proven Supervise team members when using new technology