Developing Software for Search and Rescue Planning and Operation

The initial actions of public officials at the onset of an incident can make the difference between life and death. In these complicated incidents, with limited resources, software can aid personnel in a search and rescue incident, where time is critical. Upon the initiation of a search and rescue incident, teams may have as little as 12 hours to rescue a person. With the advent of hand held personal digital assistants (PDA's), laptop computers, hand held radios, and global positioning system (GPS) devices, rural public safety officials can apply search theory and information technology to streamline and manage a complicated situation.