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Rennie Mackintosh Gifts

There have been so many texts written on the subject of lost person searching that I have consulted over the years. All of them have assisted in some degree to provide the knowledge and experience to enable this book to be completed. It would be unfair to mention some and not the others.

This handbook has been produced specifically for searching in the environment within the Devon and Constabulary Force area. It is designed to be relevant to those that use it rather than a large, cumbersome text of irrelevant detail. It can, of course be adapted for other areas. The principles are the same wherever the lost subject may be. The theory we use has been adapted from that used in North America and anyone conversant with procedures will readily accept its unique adaptability.

There are many training courses available but again these may not be so relevant to any one particular area. Why does a searcher in this Force area need to know about the characteristics and behaviour of a lost skier or mountaineer, for instance?

This handbook has applied the relevant areas of search theory to the area in which it will be applied. It also contains local information in the pre-plan.

I must pass on my particular thanks and appreciation to one group of dedicated professionals. They are Tim Andrew, Clive Swombow and ‘Skip’ Stoffel of the Emergency Response International, (ERI). Their excellent instruction, guidance and knowledge has convinced me of the absolute relevance and value of lost person search theory. I was first introduced to the concept several years ago and have to admit to being a definite ‘sceptic’. After all, don’t we always look in the most likely place first?

It is to their credit that this theory and concept has convinced me of the need to spread this knowledge within the Devon and Cornwall Constabulary. There is no doubt that when the Force has adopted this search theory in full that lives will be saved. Of course, there will be times when, regrettably, even the efficient application of search theory will not save lives. But at least we will provide the relatives with the knowledge and comfort that we did try our best and that we cared.

In other sections within this book I have included quotations and excerpts from other specialists in the field of search and rescue. I thank them for their knowledge.

Before concluding I have to remind the users of this handbook that it is not intended to be a complete reference manual for search managers. It is a guide only and the author takes no responsibility for the actions of those that use this handbook.

It is the duty of every search manager, searchers and the organisation to obtain the knowledge and proficiency to perform and maintain an effective search capability.

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