Rescue operation types

Rescue team is the key entity of every rescue action. It makes the decisions and starts operating immediately after receiving the distress signal. Rescue teams are well defined within the basic Mountain Rescue Squad in regarding of the rescue action domain and type.

Rescue action is a term used for the event that involves the engagement of rescue team. Rescue action can be of one of the following types:

Rescue stand by watch

Is a rescue action type that is characterized by the rescue team presence while some mountaineering activity is taking place. Attributes of this action type are: existence of necessary rescue infrastructure on the very location of the activity, clear set of responsibilities of the rescue team and rigid instructions for every member of the rescue team. Typical example of this activity type is the rescue stand by watch during the skiing season at the "Kopaonik" mountain.

Rescue safeguard

Is a rescue action type that is characterized by the presence of the rescue team throughout the duration of some risky mountaineering event. If applicable, rescuers are engaged as mountain guides. Necessary rescue infrastructure and equipment can be present (provided by organizers) or can be driven along by the rescue team. Typical example of this activity type is the rescue safeguard of some, climbing contests, trekking tours or some skiing competitions.

Rescue operation on receiving the distress signal

Is the most complex type of rescue action. Distress signal is received at the Mountain Rescue Squad base. Rescuers respond instantly. Selection of the previously defined rescue teams is made so that the chosen one can perform all the tasks required by the rescue operation even in the most complex circumstances of the current domain. Mountain rescue squad and the appropriate rescue team is well trained and highly equipped for carrying out the rescue operation, but must make the necessary agreements with other subjects in order to use the means of quick transportation (air mobile machinery). Coordination and previously well defined procedures for engaging the resources of the local authorities, regional civil defense headquarters, Ministry for the Interior and the military is crucial for decreasing amount of time prior to the appearance of the rescue team at the emergency spot.

Mountain Rescue Squad is educating, training and equipping their rescue teams and rescuers in maintaining their rescue services in the different rescue operation domains.