I joined the Police service in 1982 and I have been involved in
searching in one form or another since 1984.
My interest in lost person searching began back in about 1995/96 when I was
introduced to this particular type of search concept. I fully admit to being
rather sceptical at first but it didn’t take too long for the possibilities to
hit home.
I was trained as a Police search advisor (POLSA) in 1996 and as such have needed
to be aware of methods for searching for lost people. This knowledge was limited
at first. A POLSA is trained in all types of search techniques and skills but
not, at that time, in the theory of lost person searching.
I recognised early on the need for this theory to be taken on board in Devon and
Cornwall. The local search and rescue groups did a wonderful job but the lack of knowledge and
expertise within the Police service was very limiting in the application of the
theory. For instance, if a report of a lost person came in, unless the urgency
and the relevancy was recognised then the search and rescue group was not even called in. This
urgency was rarely recognised because no-one was aware of it.
I therefore took it upon myself to do something about the ‘problem’ and to
ensure we had the expertise and knowledge in place. This process has only just
begun but it is working and our response is improving. This is undoubtedly
leading to a far greater awareness in our Force and the results are encouraging,
if not impressive. More lives are now being saved, I am certain of that, even in
the early days of this greater awareness.
The plan is to encourage further use of this theory within Force and to train
enough lost person search managers to enable us to respond effectively every
single time.
The intention of this site is to encourage debate and discussion and perhaps
‘pool’ the experiences of others to improve matters even further. The content of
this site is available to anyone, free of charge with the ultimate intention of
saving lives. I have been told by some that this information should not be made
freely available and that I should charge for it. What price do we put on saving
lives? I don’t charge for this. Others might and most do, but not me.
It would be nice if we could, between us, develop some software for searching.
This software would be free for all to use. I am aware that some is being
developed but the cost will be high. If we can develop this together then we
will not be making a profit out of loss and misery. That is a nice thought too.
Michael H Rose
DISCLAIMER
This site, whilst created from the perspective
of a police officer, is a personal work. It does not necessarily represent the
views or policy of Devon and Cornwall Constabulary.
The contents of this site are written in good
faith, however the author can accept no responsibility for any loss, harm or
damage howsoever caused by the use of content from this site.
You may copy and re-distribute content from this site provided
the above disclaimer clearly accompanies any copy. The content of this site
is the copyright of Michael H Rose and any copies or distribution of the
contents must be accompanied with the copyright details and acknowledgement of
the author
