The Search and Rescue Technician Level I (SARTECH I) certification is the advanced, operational-level designation for wilderness search and rescue professionals. Administered by the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR), this certification is designed for experienced SAR personnel who have mastered basic wilderness skills and are ready to take on advanced responsibilities, including team leading, specialized search tactics, and operations in more challenging environments. Earning your SARTECH I validates your competence and commitment to saving lives in the wilderness.
The SARTECH I certification focuses on mastering advanced field skills necessary for efficient and effective search operations. The associated training and evaluation cover critical topics including:
Advanced wilderness navigation utilizing map, compass, and GPS, including night operations.
Comprehensive search tactics for missing persons, including area and route searching.
Introduction to tracking fundamentals and sign cutting.
Man-tracking theory and application.
Wilderness survival and self-sufficiency for extended operations.
Basic rescue techniques, rope handling, and patient litter transport.
Integration into the Incident Command System (ICS) and understanding SAR management structure.
Crew leading and small unit leadership responsibilities.
The SARTECH I examination process is rigorous, consisting of two main components: a written knowledge exam and a comprehensive practical field skills evaluation.
Written Exam:
The written exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of the SARTECH I curriculum, including navigation theory, SAR tactics, survival knowledge, and ICS principles. Candidates generally need to achieve a score of 80% or higher to pass this portion. The time limit for the written exam is usually around 2 hours.
Practical Evaluation:
The practical evaluation is a hands-on assessment where candidates must demonstrate proficiency in critical SAR skills under field conditions. This typically includes stations evaluating:
Land Navigation: Successfully navigating a multi-point course, often including a night navigation phase.
Tracking: Identifying and following tracks or signs.
Search Tactics: Demonstrating proper search techniques as a searcher or crew leader.
Survival/Gearing: Displaying proficiency with required personal 24-hour pack equipment and survival skills.
The practical evaluation is pass/fail, and candidates must successfully demonstrate competence in all assessed skills to pass the overall examination. This component can take a full day or longer to complete, depending on the testing location and conditions.
Preparation for the SARTECH I exam requires a combination of self-study and practical field practice. Here are effective strategies:
Review the Textbook: Study the official NASAR Fundamentals of Search and Rescue textbook thoroughly, focusing on chapters relevant to advanced skills.
Utilize Practice Exams: Take available SARTECH I practice tests to familiarize yourself with the written exam format, identify knowledge gaps, and improve time management.
Hands-on Field Practice: This is critical. Regularly practice land navigation (day and night), tracking, search tactics, and packing/using your 24-hour gear. Seek mentorship from experienced SARTECH I or higher personnel.
Attend Training Workshops: Participate in NASAR-sanctioned training courses or workshops that focus on advanced SAR skills to gain expert guidance and feedback.
Exam Centers:
SARTECH I examinations (both written and practical) are not typically held at standard testing centers like Pearson VUE. Instead, they are administered by authorized NASAR lead instructors or evaluators. Written exams may sometimes be offered in a classroom setting or occasionally online through specific proctoring arrangements. The practical evaluation is always conducted in person at a pre-arranged outdoor field location suitable for testing search and navigation skills. You can find scheduled evaluations or contact authorized instructors through the NASAR website or your local SAR organization.
Achieving SARTECH I certification demonstrates an advanced level of proficiency and leadership capability, opening doors to various roles within search and rescue and emergency services. Potential job titles include:
Search and Rescue Team Leader
SAR Operations Specialist
Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT) with SAR specialty
National Park Service Ranger (with SAR responsibilities)
State or County SAR Coordinator
Law Enforcement specialized SAR unit member
Wildland Firefighter with SAR qualifications
Professional Disaster Response Specialist
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