Search and rescue training can be hard to find. Luckily there are resources on the web that will allow you to do much of your own training. A bonus can be that some of these lessons can actually raise money for your group.
Orienteering is one lesson that can be a money maker for your search and rescue team.
A standard orienteering course consists of a start, a series of control sites, and a finish. On the ground, a control flag marks the location that the orienteer must visit.
The route between "controls" is not specified, and is entirely up to the orienteer; this element of route choice and the ability to navigate through the forest are what orienteering is all about.
How to train your search and rescue team in Orienteering and raise money at the same time.
Brunton has put together an expansive line of educational compasses and instructional material.
Brunton's Basic OrienteeringCourse Kit
is available at Amazon.com (Almost every piece of search and rescue gear I own comes from amazon.com. I can find the lowest prices and get quick shipping from a company that I know stands behind every sale.)Here's how you can get the training and start raising money for your search and rescue team.
1) If you have 20 search and rescue team members, each member can put $10 towards the cost of the Brunton's Basic Course Kit. When the kit arrives, your search and rescue team members can take the course - and put one lesson under their belt for $10.
2) Since it is necessary to practice our search and rescue skills, you can plan several orienteering events per year. Advertise in your local newspaper (most local papers will put your event in the community section for free), and on your local radio stations (again free).
3) Charge non-team members $10 to participate. Money raised can be added to your search and rescue team account for purchase of needed equipment.
Most of all, you will have fun orienteering. Plan a potluck dinner at the end of the event and bring your team members closer together. Bonding is always easier over a plate of food!
