DCNR Search and Rescue Program Updates

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is the primary coordinator for search and rescue efforts on state forest and state park lands within the commonwealth. This web site provides search and rescue information and promotes outdoor safety to help ensure our visitors safe and enjoyable experiences.

Over the years, the bureaus of State Parks and Forestry, being responsible for over 2 million acres of forest land, recognized the need for trained personnel in search and rescue. Using the information available at the time, training modules for search manager and search responder were developed for DCNR personnel. We currently have 140 people trained in these categories.

DCNR utilizes the nationally recognized Incident Command System to manage any emergency: fire, flood, tornado, search and rescue. Guidelines for first report of a lost person and call out procedures have been developed, and we are now developing guidelines for Incident Commander, Plans Chief, Operations Chief, Field Team Leader and Field Team Member.

Our trained personnel will primarily respond to incidents in or adjacent to state forest/state parks lands. Most of our people can function in overhead or field functions. Occasionally, searches will cover several days. DCNR will then rely more on the volunteer community, especially for field personnel.

To keep personnel current, or to address occasional local problems dealing with search and rescue, we conduct "mock" searches. Working through Regional Coordinators (listed in the How to Volunteer Section), the drills can be set up, conducted, and reviewed. Problem areas can be solved, and positive areas reinforced with such a drill. The regional coordinators also keep the respective districts informed of the SAR Task Force meetings, assess training within the region, and update resource lists.