| Below you will find a sample "procedure" or "guide". I posted it here so you can get an idea of where to start with your own Search and Rescue team "Operating Procedures" or "Operating Guide". You can use it as a start for writing your search and rescue team's procedures. |
Restrictions on Conduct
A. The following activities shall not be tolerated and shall be subject to the provisions of this procedure:
1. Violation of federal, state, county, local statute, ordinance, or regulation
2. Consumption of alcoholic beverages in the field during duty hours except during banquets or similar social occasions where moderation shall be acceptable
3. Smoking in the command post or any area designated “NO SMOKING”,
4. Open fires in areas where fire bans are in effect
5. Disruptive or violent behavior at any time
6. Harassment of any kind
7. Discrimination of any kind
8. Concealment of any prohibited activity or the results thereof
III. Actions To Be Taken on Receipt of Allegations
A. On Initial Report
1. The Command Post Leader on receiving a complaint shall remove the parties from any field assignments as soon as possible during a mission or drill
2. A team officer will be assigned to collect written statements and physical evidence immediately on receipt of the complaint
B. Within 15 Calendar Days of Receipt of the Complaint or Return from the Field
1. The most senior field officer not involved shall convene an inquiry in the allegations
2. All parties shall be present and shall be able to informally present their position
3. The convening officer shall attempt to resolve the issue at this level
4. The convening officer shall report the results of his inquiry within 15 calendar days of adjourning the inquiry to the parties and the team president
5. If the parties have agreed to a settlement of the dispute at the initial inquiry this settlement shall be recorded in the minutes of the next meeting
6. If the parties do not agree to a settlement the matter shall be referred to the Executive Board of the organization which shall convene as a hearing board within 45 calendar days of receiving the report from the convening officer
7. A written finding shall be provided at the conclusion of the proceedings
If the parties cannot reach an agreement in the hearing, a quorum of the membership, shall sit as a jury in the dispute.
1. The hearing board shall present its findings, including such witnesses and physical evidence as had been presented
2. The parties to the dispute shall be granted the right to examine witnesses and evidence as necessary to provide due process under the adversarial system of justice practiced in the United States
3. A finding of the quorum shall be evidenced by a 2/3 majority of the quorum as recorded on written ballots
C. Penalties
Penalties shall be limited to the following:
1. Determination of liability for damage to the organizations’ equipment or costs for services paid for by the organization
2. Termination of Membership
3. Removal from Positions of Authority within the Organization
4. Suspension of Membership Privileges
5. Written Reprimand
6. Verbal Reprimand
