Trained trackers are rare but, if you have a trained tracker available, he should be used before searchers are allowed into the field.
In the field, your search and rescue team should be aware of all the tracks and be careful not to obliterate any clues. Your search and rescue team should mark all clues with survey tape.
Disoriented persons usually travel in erratic patterns. Subjects in a panic will often move erratically.
If possible, descriptions of footprints/boot tracks should be obtained during the pre-mission briefing.
While there are not many trained trackers available, there are some very good books written on tracking that your search and rescue team may find invaluable.
The SAS Guide to Tracking, New and Revised
Included are tips on:
Tracking in desert, forest, jungle, marsh, and grassy areas
Interpreting animal, human, and vehicle signs
How to preserve night vision
Using time frames to eliminate misleading signs
Detecting quarry when they backtrack or circle around
How time and weather affect signs
How to spot intentionally misleading signs
Tracking--Signs of Man, Signs of Hope: A Systematic Approach to the Art and Science of Tracking Humans
Chapters cover topics such as:
turning your five senses into scientific evidence gathering machines
telling the difference between natural and unnatural movement, foliage, and sounds
differentiating between unrelated or incidental signs and those left specifically by your Chase
accurately interpreting the age of a sign
determining the physical, mental, and emotional condition of your Chase
transforming hindrances into advantages
picking up the trail again once it has been lost
protecting yourself against a dangerous and/or desperate foe
working together as a team
documenting the evidence so that others can pick up where you left off
Tactical Tracking Operations
how to find and follow tracks through any terrain;
assess the age of tracks;
relocate the trail after it's gone missing;
foil every effort to throw off your pursuit;
coordinate a four-man team while tracking fugitives;
set up and run large tracking operations,
use the latest high-tech gear to find fugitives and more.
