In the demanding and high-stakes Search and Rescue (SAR) world, the ability to effectively respond to individuals in distress goes beyond locating and rescuing them. It also involves providing the immediate psychological support needed to stabilise individuals who may be experiencing trauma or mental health crises which can include the families of the lost person as well. Our SAR teams are excited to announce the trial of a new Crisis Intervention Training program to enhance this crucial aspect of their operations.
What is Crisis Intervention Training?
Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is designed to equip SAR personnel with the skills and strategies needed to manage individuals who are experiencing acute emotional or psychological distress. This training focuses on de-escalation techniques, active listening, and providing immediate support to individuals who may be overwhelmed, panicked, or even in danger of harming themselves.
The program also emphasises recognising the signs of mental health crises and providing appropriate responses while connecting individuals with further care if needed. For SAR teams, these skills are particularly relevant when dealing with missing persons who have been exposed to prolonged stress, isolation, or dangerous situations.
Why Is This Training Important for SAR Teams?
SAR missions often involve high-pressure environments where the mental health of both the missing individual and the rescue team must be prioritised. Here’s how the new Crisis Intervention Training can assist our teams:
De-escalating Emotional Crises: Missing persons may experience shock, fear, or confusion upon being located. SAR teams trained in crisis intervention will have the tools to calm and reassure individuals, ensuring their safety and cooperation during the rescue process.
Recognising Mental Health Needs: In many cases, individuals who go missing may already be experiencing mental health challenges. The training will enable SAR personnel to identify warning signs of conditions such as anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation, ensuring these individuals receive the care they need post-rescue.
Providing Immediate Psychological First Aid: Crisis Intervention Training complements other forms of first aid by addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of rescued individuals. This holistic approach improves overall outcomes for those rescued, fostering a smoother recovery process.
Strengthening Team Dynamics: SAR personnel often face high-stress situations that can affect their own mental health. This training will not only enhance their ability to assist others but also improve communication and emotional resilience within the team, fostering a supportive and effective work environment.
How Will the Trial Work?
The Crisis Intervention Training trial will run for three months starting in January 2025 and involve multiple stages:
Workshops and Simulations: SAR teams will participate in hands-on workshops that include real-world scenarios. These simulations will mirror the high-pressure situations they encounter, allowing them to practice de-escalation and crisis management techniques in a controlled environment.
Field Application: Teams will apply their newly acquired skills in both active and training/simulated SAR missions, with a focus on situations involving individuals in emotional distress. Supervisors and mental health professionals will monitor their progress and provide feedback.
Evaluation and Feedback: At the end of the trial, participants will complete an evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the training. Their experiences and insights will guide the integration of Crisis Intervention Training into our ongoing SAR training programs.
Expected Outcomes
We anticipate several key benefits from this training, including:
Improved safety and support for missing persons, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being during rescues.
Enhanced confidence and preparedness among SAR personnel when handling mental health crises.
Strengthened relationships between SAR teams and the communities they serve, fostering trust and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
The inclusion of Crisis Intervention Training represents a significant step forward in how SAR teams approach their critical work. By combining technical expertise with emotional support skills, we can provide a more comprehensive and compassionate response to those in need.
We’ll be sharing updates on the progress of this trial, including success stories and feedback from team members, in the coming months. Stay tuned to learn more about how this innovative training is transforming our operations and helping us save lives—both physically and emotionally.