Executive Summary: Stokes Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX)

The Stokes SAREX is a three-day SAR simulation designed to provide practical, hands-on experience in managing search and rescue (SAR) incidents. This

immersive event, structured across five operational periods, offers participants the opportunity to engage in realistic Incident Management Team operations, refine their

Search skills, and understand the dynamic responsibilities of Technical SAR roles for K9, UAS, Water, High Angle, etc.

Exercise Structure and Objectives

• Duration: 3 days
• Scope: 5 operational periods simulating real-world SAR scenarios
• Goals:

• • Enhance IMT proficiency across all roles.
  • Facilitate hands-on learning for participants at various experience levels.
  • Provide mentorship and constructive feedback for skill development.

Participant Roles

1. Mentors: Seasoned professionals providing guidance and evaluations.
2. Credentialed Members: Certified personnel occupying key operational roles.
3. Open Task Book Members: Trainees rotating through diverse roles to gain multifaceted experience.
4. Shadows: Observers studying IMT operations to deepen their understanding.

Operational Periods Overview

Day 1: Initial Incident and Planning

• OPS Period 1 (07:00–19:00): Activate the IMT, establish command, assess the situation, and draft a preliminary Incident Action Plan (IAP).
• OPS Period 2 (19:00–07:00): Allocate resources effectively and assign personnel, equipment, and facilities to operational functions.

Day 2: Incident Operations and Logistics

• OPS Period 3 (07:00–19:00): Execute SAR operations using ground, air, K9, and water teams, ensuring seamless field coordination and logistical support.
• OPS Period 4 (19:00–07:00): Stabilize the incident, mitigate hazards, and develop a transition strategy for responsibility handover.

Day 3: Incident Demobilization and After-Action Review

• OPS Period 5 (07:00–16:00): Systematically demobilize the IMT, release resources, and conduct a thorough After-Action Review (AAR) to document lessons learned and pinpoint areas for improvement.

Key Outcomes

Participants will leave the exercise with:

• Enhanced competence in SAR IMT roles.
• Real-world insights into operational dynamics and team coordination.
• Actionable feedback and documented lessons learned for continuous improvement.

The Stokes SAREX provides a critical platform for SAR readiness, ensuring participants are prepared to respond effectively to complex incidents.