B-3. Considerations

Table of Contents

• a. First determine if a rescue attempt is actually needed. It is a waste of time, equipment, and personnel to rescue someone not in need of rescuing. It is also a waste to look for someone who is not lost or needlessly risk the lives of the rescuer(s). In planning a rescue, attempt to obtain the following information:
• • • Who, what, where, when, why, and how the situation happened?
  • • How many casualties are involved and the nature of their injuries?
  • • What is the tactical situation?
  • • What are the terrain features and the location of the casualties?
  • • Will there be adequate assistance available to aid in the rescue/evacuation?
  • • Can first aid and/or medical treatment be provided at the scene; will the casualties require movement to a safer location?
  • • What specialized equipment will be required for the rescue operation?
  • • Is the rescue area contaminated? Will decontamination equipment and materiel be required for casualties, rescue personnel, and rescue equipment?
  • • How much time is available?
• b . The time element can play a significant role in how the rescue is attempted. If the casualties are in imminent danger of losing their lives (such as near a burning vehicle or in a burning building) the time available will be relatively short and will sometimes cause a rescuer to compromise planning stages and/or the first aid which can be given. However, if the casualty is in a relatively secure area and his physical condition is strong, more deliberate planning can take place. A realistic estimate of time available must be made as quickly as possible to determine action time remaining. The key elements are the casualty’s physical and mental condition, the tactical situation, and the environment.