Item: Probability of Detection and Search Tactical Procedures in Avalanche Rescue
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Title: Probability of Detection and Search Tactical Procedures in Avalanche Rescue
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2016 Proceedings, Breckenridge, CO, USA
Authors:
- Manuel Genswein [ Genswein, Meilen, Switzerland ]
Date: 2016-10-02
Abstract: The search for a missing person is a race against the clock as survival chances drop very rapidly. The challenge for rescue is to find the proper balance between area search speed and probability of detection. Whereas some search means require a physical hit (probe line), others allow to detect the missing person from a certain distance by an electronic signal (transceiver, EPIRB, Radar), sent (rescue dog), visual (eyesight & IR) or audible. The range of sensing a missing person from distance is influenced by the amplitude of the radiated signal, the sensitivity of the receiver as well as the signal attenuation, reflection and deflection in the media between the missing person and the rescuer. However, success of signal detection is as well influenced by the duration and repeat frequency a signal may be received. Therefore, search strip width (resolution) for most search means is associated with search speed. In avalanche rescue with transceivers the limitation of forward search speed becomes an important factor when the search is carried out by helicopter, on skis, in steep terrain as well as in multiple signal scenarios. To reduce search strip width or search speed independent of the situation leads to an unnecessary increase of burial time and therefore lower survival chances. Thus, the rescuer needs to recognize when a search tactical reduction of search strip width or search speed is indicated and what measures to apply in case the initial search has failed in finding all buried subjects.
Object ID: ISSW16_O12.04.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s):
Keywords: Avalanche Rescue, Probability of Detection, Survival Chances
Page Number(s): 286-289
Subjects: avalanche rescue avalanche survival search and rescue
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