SPOT & Yosemite Search and Rescue2009

Case Study & AAR

Case Study -

SPOT activation near Red Peak PassSPOT, October 4th 2009

Rain & wind with snow in higher elevations

3 SPOT activations, all on trail, moving East and down slope

+5 SPOT signals, but IERCC cannot access this data

We would not receive this information from SPOT until later that afternoon, appears subject has not moved

1645h, IERCC “no OK messages sent”, search begins

Text message sent around 1130am, not viewable by IERCC, no longer 911

Login information reveals that the subject was out of search area

After Action Review

SPOT Dispatch (IERCC)Lack of clarity, incomplete informationLack of familiarity with data outputNo better than a 911 hang up with some coordinates

IndividualNot preparedFailed to recognize altitude sickness symptoms

Responsible PartyCommunication barrier

SPOT login – data easily exported and accurate!

Take-home Points

SPOT Dispatch Represented as a professional dispatch Did not perform well

SPOT ConceptWill it work in all of our terrain?Is “911” really a 911?False alarms, would-be self rescues?Unnecessary risk taking?SPOT & Education role (for user and friends/family)

What’s Next

NPS and California protocols?When does it get treated like a 911 phone call?

Help activation versus 911 activation 911 activation + no movement 911 activation + no movement + 911 call from friend/family

with login information

Communication with SPOT Get login information as soon as possible GEOS versus regular package? Jurisdiction?