Search and Rescue Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
Setting: Outdoor, field training
Best For: Scouts interested in emergency response, teamwork, helping others
Hands-On Level: High
Eagle Required: No

The Search and Rescue merit badge gives you a chance to learn how people respond when someone is lost, injured, or in danger. You will learn how search teams work together and how careful planning can make a rescue safer and more successful. Along the way, you will also discover how to stay calm and think clearly in stressful situations.

As you work on the Search and Rescue merit badge, you will practice important skills like communication, teamwork, and problem solving. You will learn how to follow directions, support your team, and make good decisions under pressure. These are useful skills for Scouting, school, and everyday life.

This merit badge also helps you understand the importance of helping others. Search and rescue teams often assist people during difficult moments. By learning these skills, you can become more prepared to serve your community and help when it matters most.

The requirements for the Search and Rescue merit badge were updated on January 1, 2026.

Search and Rescue Merit Badge Requirements

Search and Rescue Merit Badge Pamphlet

Search and Rescue Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Search and Rescue Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Search and Rescue merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Hazards and First Aid
• Requirement 2: Staying and Getting Found
• Requirement 3: Maps
• Requirement 4: Incident Command System
• Requirement 5: SAR Teams
• Requirement 6: Search and Rescue Procedures
• Requirement 7:  Plan and Complete a Search
• Requirement 8: Careers
• More Resources

A Note About Prohibited Activities:
The Scouting America’s Guide to Safe Scouting states under “Prohibited Activities” that flying in aircraft as part of a search and rescue mission is a prohibited activity for youth members. For complete information, see Scouting America’s Guide to Safe Scouting.

Requirement 1a: First Aid for SAR Injuries and Conditions

What You Need To Do

Show or explain first aid and prevention for common injuries and medical problems during a search and rescue situation. Cover dehydration, heatstroke, hypothermia, shock, blisters, eye injuries, sprains, bug bites, stings, and animal bites.

Helpful Tips

• Drink water often during outdoor activities to help prevent dehydration.
• Move a person with heatstroke to shade and cool them with wet cloths and water.
• Keep wet clothing off the body in cold weather to help prevent hypothermia.
• Help a person with shock lie down and stay warm until help arrives.
• Wear boots that fit well to help prevent blisters and ankle sprains.
• Clean blisters and cover them with moleskin or bandages before hiking again.
• Flush eye injuries gently with clean water if dirt gets into the eye.
• Wrap sprained ankles or knees with an elastic bandage and avoid walking on them.
• Use insect repellent and long sleeves to help prevent chigger, tick, mosquito, and gnat bites.
• Check your body for ticks after outdoor activities.
• Remove bee stingers by scraping them out with a card or fingernail.
• Wash spider bites and keep the person calm while getting medical help.
• Move away from the area after a scorpion sting and keep the injured area still.
• Wash bites from wild mammals with soap and water right away and get medical help quickly.
• Keep a person calm after a venomous snake bite and limit movement until emergency help arrives.
• Never cut a snake bite or try to suck out the venom.

Resources

• Dehydration (video)
• Heat Exhaustion vs Heat Stroke (video)
• Heat Stroke (video)
• Hypothermia (video)
• Recognizing and Treating Shock (video)
• Shock (video)
• Blisters (video)
• First Aid for Eyes (video)
• Figure 8 Ankle Wrap (video)
• Orthopedic Injuries (website)
• Bone, Joint, and Muscle Injuries (video)
• Tick Checks (video)
• Mosquito Bites (video)
• Bee Stings (video)
• Treatment of a Bee Sting (video)
• What You Need To Know About Spider Bites (video)
• Scorpion Stings (video)
• Treatment of Animal Bites (video)
• Snakebites (video)
• Rattlesnake Bites (video)

Leader Tips

• Use simple first aid demonstrations during meetings or campouts.
• Let Scouts practice bandaging and splinting with partners.
• Review outdoor safety rules before hikes and activities.
• Keep first aid supplies available during hands-on practice.

Requirement 1b: Scout Essentials and Outdoor Safety

What You Need To Do

Explain how the Scout Essentials help prevent outdoor problems and help lost Scouts stay safer while waiting for rescue.

Helpful Tips

• Carry extra water to help prevent dehydration.
• Pack rain gear and extra clothing to help stay warm and dry.
• Bring a flashlight or headlamp in case you are out after dark.
• Carry a whistle to help rescuers find you more easily.
• Keep a first aid kit ready for cuts, blisters, bites, and sprains.
• Bring sun protection like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Carry a map and compass to help avoid getting lost.
• Pack extra food for energy during long outdoor activities.
• Keep matches or a fire starter in a waterproof container.
• Use a pocketknife carefully for campsite and emergency tasks.
• Store gear in a backpack so supplies stay together and easy to find.
• Check your Scout Essentials before every outing.

Resources

• Scout Outdoor Essentials (website)
• Scout Essentials and Outdoor Hazards (PDF)
• Essentials for Safe Hiking (video)

Leader Tips

• Review the Scout Essentials before trips and hikes.
• Ask Scouts to show where each item is packed.
• Give examples of how each item helps during emergencies.
• Encourage Scouts to carry their own gear instead of borrowing items.

Requirement 1c: SAR Field Pack Safety Gear

What You Need To Do

Discuss how safety gear in a search and rescue field pack helps protect SAR team members during missions.

Helpful Tips

• Carry extra water and sports drinks to help prevent dehydration.
• Pack warm layers and rain gear for changing weather conditions.
• Bring gloves to protect hands from cuts and rough surfaces.
• Carry eye protection in dusty or brush-filled areas.
• Use sturdy boots to help prevent ankle injuries.
• Keep insect repellent in the pack for mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats.
• Carry a first aid kit with bandages, wraps, and supplies for stings and bites.
• Pack sunscreen and lip balm for sunny conditions.
• Bring a flashlight with extra batteries for low-light searches.
• Carry maps, radios, or GPS devices for safer navigation.
• Pack emergency shelters or blankets for cold weather situations.
• Keep food and snacks in the pack for energy during long searches.

Resources

• What I Carry in My Search and Rescue Pack (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts real SAR gear when possible.
• Let Scouts handle and inspect safety equipment.
• Connect each piece of gear to a specific outdoor hazard.
• Review how packing the right gear helps rescuers stay safe and effective.

Requirement 2a: Trip Plans and the Buddy System

What You Need To Do

Explain how trip plans and the buddy system help Scouts avoid getting lost and help rescuers find them more quickly.

Helpful Tips

• Write down where your group is going before leaving.
• Include the route, campsite, and return time in the trip plan.
• Leave the trip plan with a trusted adult.
• Stay with your buddy during hikes and activities.
• Check on your buddy often during the outing.
• Tell a leader right away if someone is missing.
• Use the buddy system during rest stops and trail breaks.
• Carry a map so you can follow the planned route.
• Review the trip plan before starting the activity.
• Keep the group together during outdoor activities.

Resources

• How To Plan an Adventure (video)
• Scout Trip Planning (website)
• Why You Should Make Trip Plans (website)

Leader Tips

• Review trip plans with Scouts before outings.
• Pair Scouts carefully using the buddy system.
• Remind Scouts to stay with their buddies at all times.
• Practice check-ins during hikes and camp activities.

Requirement 2b: Weather and Trip Plans

What You Need To Do

Explain how weather and changing conditions affect outdoor trip plans and safety decisions.

Helpful Tips

• Check the weather forecast before leaving for a trip.
• Pack extra layers during cold weather seasons.
• Bring rain gear even if the forecast looks clear.
• Carry extra water during hot summer activities.
• Start hikes earlier during hot weather days.
• Watch for storms, lightning, and strong winds.
• Change plans if trails become flooded or icy.
• Keep dry clothing in a waterproof bag.
• Plan shorter routes during extreme weather.
• Review weather conditions during the activity, not just before leaving.

Resources

• Search and Rescue Expert Stresses Importance of Preparedness (video)

Leader Tips

• Review weather forecasts with Scouts before trips.
• Discuss backup plans for storms or extreme temperatures.
• Show Scouts how weather affects trail and campsite conditions.
• Encourage Scouts to adjust gear for seasonal conditions.

Requirement 2c: Signaling for Rescue Teams

What You Need To Do

Explain and show ways a lost Scout could signal ground, air, or water rescue teams.

Helpful Tips

• Use a whistle to make loud signals for rescuers.
• Blow three whistle blasts as a distress signal.
• Wave bright clothing or flags in open areas.
• Build a signal fire only where it is safe and allowed.
• Place rocks or branches in large patterns on the ground.
• Use a flashlight to send signals at night.
• Stay in open areas where aircraft can spot you more easily.
• Use reflective items to catch sunlight during the day.
• Stay near your last known location if it is safe.
• Keep signaling at regular times so rescuers can locate you.

Resources

• 5 Ground To Air Signals That Save Lives (video)
• Various Ways To Signal for Search and Rescue (video)
• Signaling for Help in the Wilderness (website)

Leader Tips

• Let Scouts practice whistle and flashlight signals.
• Demonstrate ground-to-air signals in an open field.
• Review safe fire rules before discussing signal fires.
• Encourage Scouts to carry signaling gear on outings.

Requirement 2d: Using a Signaling Mirror

What You Need To Do

Show how to use a signaling mirror to reflect sunlight toward rescuers.

Helpful Tips

• Hold the mirror near your eye while facing the sun.
• Use the sighting hole if the mirror has one.
• Aim the reflected light toward the rescue team or aircraft.
• Sweep the reflected light slowly across the target area.
• Practice using the mirror before outdoor trips.
• Keep the mirror clean for a brighter reflection.
• Use short flashes to attract attention.
• Stand in an open area with direct sunlight.
• Keep the mirror easy to reach in your pack.
• Carry the mirror in your Scout Essentials.

Resources

• How To Use a Signal Mirror (video)
• The Signal Mirror: A Low-Tech Lifesaver (website)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate mirror use outdoors in sunlight.
• Give Scouts time to practice aiming reflected light.
• Use safe distances during practice activities.
• Remind Scouts never to shine mirrors into another person’s eyes.

Requirement 2e: Personal Locator Beacons and the AFRCC

What You Need To Do

Explain how a Personal Locator Beacon works and describe the role of the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center.

Helpful Tips

• Carry a PLB during remote outdoor activities when needed.
• Activate the beacon only during real emergencies.
• Keep the PLB registered with current owner information.
• Store the beacon where it is easy to reach quickly.
• Test the PLB only using approved test procedures.
• Keep batteries fresh and replace them before expiration dates.
• Use the beacon in open areas for better satellite signals.
• Stay near the activated PLB if conditions are safe.
• The PLB sends a distress signal with location information to satellites.
• The AFRCC helps coordinate search and rescue efforts in the United States.

Resources

• How Does an EPIRB Work? (video)
• How Modern Rescue Beacons Work—The Anatomy of a Rescue | EPIRB and Personal Locator Beacons (video)
• Emergency Beacons (website)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts examples or pictures of PLBs when possible.
• Discuss situations where a beacon may be useful.
• Review the importance of avoiding false emergency signals.
• Connect PLB use to overall outdoor safety planning.

Requirement 3a: The 5 D’s of a Map

What You Need To Do

Point out and explain the 5 D’s of a map: Date, Description, Details, Direction or Declination, and Distance.

Helpful Tips

• Check the map date to see how current the information is.
• Read the map description to identify the map name and area.
• Look for details like roads, trails, streams, and contour lines.
• Find the declination diagram before using a compass with the map.
• Adjust your compass for declination if needed.
• Use the map scale to measure distance between locations.
• Practice matching map symbols to real features outdoors.
• Study the legend so map symbols make sense.
• Keep the map folded to the area you are using.
• Protect the map in a waterproof case or bag.

Resources

• The 5 D’s in Navigation (video)
• The Five D’s in Map Navigation (website)

Leader Tips

• Review each of the 5 D’s with a real topographic map.
• Show Scouts where to find map information around the edges.
• Demonstrate how declination affects compass bearings.
• Let Scouts practice measuring distances on the map.

Requirement 3b: Coordinates and Elevation

What You Need To Do

Choose a location on a map and record the altitude, latitude, longitude, and US National Grid coordinates. Describe the differences between these systems.

Helpful Tips

• Use contour lines to estimate the altitude of a location.
• Latitude lines run east and west across the map.
• Longitude lines run north and south across the map.
• Latitude and longitude use degrees, minutes, and seconds or decimals.
• US National Grid coordinates use boxes and numbers.
• Practice finding the same location using both systems.
• Use a ruler or coordinate tool for more accurate readings.
• Check coordinates carefully before writing them down.
• GPS devices and apps often display several coordinate formats.
• Compare paper map coordinates with GPS readings.

Resources

• How To Read a US National Grid Map (website)
• Work With a Grid in ArcGIS Pro (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate how to read coordinates step by step.
• Give Scouts several locations to practice identifying.
• Compare GPS readings with paper map information.
• Encourage careful and accurate recording of coordinates.

Requirement 3c: Bearings, Distance, and Terrain

What You Need To Do

Orient a map, take a bearing to another location, estimate the distance, and describe the terrain between the two points.

Helpful Tips

• Place the map on a flat surface before orienting it.
• Line up the compass needle with north on the map.
• Hold the compass steady while taking a bearing.
• Use the map scale to estimate distance.
• Look at contour lines to identify hills and valleys.
• Check for streams, roads, forests, and open fields along the route.
• Avoid steep terrain when planning travel routes.
• Double-check your bearing before moving.
• Practice taking bearings in different locations.
• Compare terrain features on the map with the real landscape.

Resources

• How To Use a Map and Compass (website)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate map orientation before Scouts practice on their own.
• Let Scouts work in pairs while taking bearings.
• Point out terrain features on both the map and the ground.
• Review common compass mistakes during practice.

Requirement 3d: Last Seen Point and Containment Areas

What You Need To Do

Show a hypothetical place last seen on a map and identify natural or human-made boundaries that could contain a search area.

Helpful Tips

• Mark the last known location clearly on the map.
• Look for rivers, roads, fences, or ridges near the area.
• Use large features that are easy for search teams to follow.
• Check for trails or paths leading away from the location.
• Identify areas where a lost person may travel more easily.
• Use boundaries to reduce the size of the search area.
• Compare the terrain inside and outside the containment area.
• Keep notes about landmarks near the last seen point.
• Study aerial photos if they are available.
• Practice identifying containment areas on different maps.

Resources

• Search Containment (video)

Leader Tips

• Use simple search examples during map discussions.
• Show how boundaries help narrow search areas.
• Encourage Scouts to explain their containment choices.
• Practice with several different map locations and terrains.

Requirement 4a: Local ICS and the Patrol Method

What You Need To Do

Explain how the local Incident Command System (ICS) is organized and compare it with the patrol method used in Scouting.

Helpful Tips

• ICS uses a chain of command during emergencies.
• The incident commander leads the overall operation.
• Different sections handle planning, operations, logistics, and communication.
• Team members report to specific leaders instead of everyone giving directions.
• The patrol method also uses leadership roles and teamwork.
• Patrol leaders guide Scouts during activities and outings.
• Both systems divide jobs so work gets done more efficiently.
• Clear communication helps avoid confusion in both ICS and Scouting.
• Both systems depend on cooperation and responsibility.
• Practice leadership skills during patrol activities and campouts.

Resources

• Introduction to ICS (video)
• Incident Command Structure (website)

Leader Tips

• Compare patrol positions with ICS leadership roles.
• Use simple emergency examples during discussions.
• Encourage Scouts to describe how teamwork works in both systems.
• Connect ICS ideas to real Scouting experiences.

Requirement 4b: Community Agencies and SAR Management

What You Need To Do

Explain how local agencies train for and manage search and rescue situations in the community.

Helpful Tips

• Police, fire departments, and rescue teams often work together during SAR operations.
• Many agencies practice with training exercises during the year.
• Search teams use maps, radios, GPS devices, and emergency vehicles.
• Some teams use dogs, boats, drones, or aircraft during searches.
• Emergency dispatchers help organize communication between teams.
• Volunteers may assist trained rescue personnel during large searches.
• Search managers assign areas and tasks to different teams.
• Medical teams provide care for injured or lost people.
• Agencies often practice rescue situations before real emergencies happen.
• Following instructions helps search teams work safely and effectively.

Resources

• Search & Rescue Training (video)
• CERT Search & Rescue Training (video)
• What It Takes To Be on a Search and Rescue Team (video)

Leader Tips

• Invite a local SAR member or first responder to speak with Scouts.
• Share examples of community emergency cooperation.
• Discuss how training prepares teams for real incidents.
• Encourage Scouts to ask questions about local rescue resources.

Requirement 5a: Duties of a Search and Rescue Team

What You Need To Do

Explain the official duties of a search and rescue team during emergency situations.

Helpful Tips

• SAR teams search for lost or missing people.
• Team members help rescue injured people from dangerous areas.
• Searchers gather information before starting a search.
• Teams use maps, radios, and GPS devices during operations.
• Medical care may be given before the person is moved.
• Search teams work carefully to avoid injuries during rescues.
• Team leaders assign jobs and search areas.
• Searchers keep records of locations and findings.
• Communication between teams helps the search move smoothly.
• SAR teams may assist during disasters, storms, or outdoor emergencies.

Resources

• What You Should Know As A Search & Rescue Team Member (video)

Leader Tips

• Use real-life SAR examples during discussions.
• Review how teamwork supports rescue operations.
• Encourage Scouts to connect SAR duties with Scout skills.
• Discuss safety rules followed by rescue teams.

Requirement 5b: Wilderness, Urban, and Water SAR

What You Need To Do

Explain the differences between wilderness, urban, and water search and rescue operations.

Helpful Tips

• Wilderness SAR often takes place in forests, mountains, or remote areas.
• Searchers in wilderness areas may hike long distances over rough terrain.
• Urban SAR usually happens in cities, neighborhoods, or damaged buildings.
• Urban teams may search collapsed structures after storms or disasters.
• Water SAR takes place on lakes, rivers, or oceans.
• Water rescue teams often use boats and flotation equipment.
• Wilderness searches may use tracking and navigation skills.
• Urban teams may use specialized rescue tools and protective gear.
• Water SAR teams watch for currents, weather, and cold-water dangers.
• Different environments require different training and equipment.

Resources

• Types of Search and Rescue (website)

Leader Tips

• Compare SAR environments using maps or pictures.
• Discuss the special hazards found in each type of search.
• Encourage Scouts to identify equipment used in different SAR settings.
• Use local examples when possible.

Requirement 5c: Types of Search and Rescue Teams

What You Need To Do

Identify four types of search and rescue teams and explain when they are used.

Helpful Tips

• Ground search teams look for missing people on foot.
• Mounted SAR teams use horses in rough or remote terrain.
• K-9 teams use trained dogs to locate missing people.
• Water rescue teams search lakes, rivers, and other waterways.
• Air search teams use helicopters or airplanes to cover large areas quickly.
• Technical rescue teams assist in cliffs, caves, or collapsed structures.
• Medical teams provide emergency care during rescues.
• Some teams specialize in cold weather or avalanche rescues.
• Different rescue teams may work together during large incidents.
• Team members train regularly for their special assignments.

Resources

• Types of SAR Teams (website)

Leader Tips

• Show examples of specialized SAR teams from your area.
• Discuss how different teams support each other.
• Encourage Scouts to match team types with rescue situations.
• Review how training and equipment differ between teams.

Requirement 6a: Search and Rescue

What You Need To Do

Explain the difference between search and rescue operations.

Helpful Tips

• A search focuses on finding a missing person.
• A rescue focuses on helping and removing a person from danger.
• Search teams gather information before starting operations.
• Rescue teams may provide medical care after locating the person.
• Some incidents involve both search and rescue activities.
• Search operations may last for hours or several days.
• Rescue operations often require special equipment and training.
• Communication helps search and rescue teams work together.
• Safety remains important during both types of operations.
• Teams may use maps, radios, dogs, boats, or aircraft during missions.

Resources

• Search or Rescue (video)
• Search Methods (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Use simple examples to compare search and rescue situations.
• Discuss how operations may change after a person is located.
• Encourage Scouts to connect SAR work with teamwork and planning.
• Review safety concerns during both types of operations.

Requirement 6b: PLS and LKP

What You Need To Do

Explain the difference between a Place Last Seen (PLS) and a Last Known Point (LKP).

Helpful Tips

• The PLS is where someone was last seen by another person.
• The LKP is the last confirmed location of the missing person.
• The PLS may come from a witness report.
• The LKP may come from physical evidence or tracking information.
• Search teams use both locations to plan search areas.
• Accurate information helps reduce search time.
• Mark the PLS and LKP clearly on a map.
• Searchers look for clues near both locations.
• GPS devices or phones may help identify an LKP.
• Search areas may expand if new information is found.

Resources

• PLS and LKP (website)

Leader Tips

• Use maps to demonstrate PLS and LKP examples.
• Compare witness reports with confirmed evidence.
• Encourage Scouts to describe how search areas may change.
• Practice marking locations on a sample map.

Requirement 6c: Communication in SAR

What You Need To Do

Explain why effective communication is important during search and rescue operations.

Helpful Tips

• Clear communication helps teams stay organized.
• Search teams must report their location often.
• Team leaders need updates from searchers in the field.
• Radios, phones, maps, and GPS units help share information.
• Short, clear messages help prevent confusion.
• Searchers should use the communication plan given at briefing.
• Important clues must be reported right away.
• Poor communication can cause searched areas to be missed.
• Good communication helps keep searchers safe.
• Every team member should know who to contact during the search.

Resources

• Urban Search and Rescue Communications Specialist Training (video)

Leader Tips

• Practice short radio messages with Scouts.
• Give Scouts a simple communication plan to follow.
• Use a mock search to show how reports move through the team.
• Stress the need for calm, clear, and accurate messages.

Requirement 6d: Lost Person Behavior

What You Need To Do

Explain how likely actions of a lost person can shape the search plan for a young child, a teenager, and an adult.

Helpful Tips

• A young child may hide when scared.
• A young child may stay close to the place last seen.
• Searchers should check small spaces, brush, and nearby shelters.
• A teenager may keep moving to solve the problem alone.
• A teenager may avoid calling for help because of fear or embarrassment.
• Searchers should check trails, roads, hangout spots, and shortcuts.
• An adult may try to follow a trail, stream, road, or landmark.
• An adult may travel farther than a young child.
• Search plans should match the person’s age, health, clothing, and outdoor skills.
• Weather, daylight, and terrain can change where searchers look first.

Resources

• Lost Person Behavior Scenario (video)
• Help Us Find You (video)

Leader Tips

• Give Scouts sample missing-person cases.
• Ask Scouts to choose likely search areas on a map.
• Compare how the plan changes for each age group.
• Keep the focus on patterns, clues, and safety.

Requirement 6e: SAR Terms

What You Need To Do

Explain common search and rescue terms used during planning, searching, and reporting.

Helpful Tips

• Evaluating search urgency means deciding how serious the situation is and how fast help is needed.
• Establishing confinement means setting boundaries so the missing person does not leave the search area unnoticed.
• A scent item is an object with the missing person’s scent on it.
• An area air scent dog searches for human scent carried through the air.
• Briefing gives searchers their assignment before they go into the field.
• Debriefing gathers reports, clues, and results after searchers return.
• Clue awareness means watching for signs like footprints, clothing, trash, or broken branches.
• Evidence preservation means protecting clues so they are not moved, damaged, or contaminated.
• Tracking a subject means following footprints, scent, signs, or other clues left by the missing person.
• Locating a subject using attraction means using sound, lights, voices, or other signals to draw a missing person’s attention.
• A hasty search is a fast search of likely places.
• A trail sweep search checks trails and paths for the missing person or clues.
• A grid search uses an organized pattern to cover an area carefully.

Resources

• Search and Rescue Glossary (website)
• Urban Search Urgency Evaluation Form (PDF)
• Establishing Confinement (video)
• Training For A Search And Rescue (video)
• Scent and Rescue Dogs (website)
• Thorns and Roses (website)
• Start, Stop, Continue (video)
• Clue Awareness (video)
• Tracking in SAR (website)
• Clue Awareness and Detection (PPT)
• Evidence Search (video)
• Footprint Tracking (video)
• Dog Scent Tracking Demo (video)
• Tracking With Drones (video)
• Human Tracking, Whistle Science @ 8:30 (video)
• Tracking Dog Scent-Preservation (video)
• Ground Search Techniques (website)
• Hasty Searching (video)
• Search Types (video)
• Conducting a Sound Sweep (website)
• Zone Search (video)

Leader Tips

• Use a simple mock search to practice these terms.
• Place sample clues for Scouts to find and report.
• Show how each term fits into a real SAR operation.
• Review the terms before Scouts visit with SAR professionals.

Requirement 7a: Choose a SAR Scenario

What You Need To Do

Choose a practice search and rescue scenario for your team to use during the exercise.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a scenario that matches the size and experience of the group.
• Use a missing hiker, lost child, or injured camper scenario.
• Decide where the person was last seen.
• Include details about weather, terrain, and time of day.
• Give the missing person a reason for being in the area.
• Choose a safe outdoor location for the practice search.
• Mark boundaries for the exercise area.
• Make sure all participants know this is a practice activity.
• Prepare a map of the search area before starting.
• Keep the scenario simple enough for Scouts to follow.

Resources

• Training Scenarios (website)
• Lost Scout Scenario (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Select a safe area away from traffic and hazards.
• Adjust the scenario for the age and skill level of the Scouts.
• Review emergency contacts and safety plans before starting.
• Keep adults nearby during the exercise.

Requirement 7b: Develop an Incident Action Plan

What You Need To Do

Create an Incident Action Plan (IAP) for a hasty search using the details from the scenario.

Helpful Tips

• Write down the search objective clearly.
• Mark the place last seen on the map.
• Identify likely travel routes for the missing person.
• Assign search areas to different team members.
• Choose communication methods before the search starts.
• Set check-in times for the search teams.
• Include emergency procedures in the plan.
• Plan for weather and terrain conditions.
• Keep the search area small during a hasty search.
• Review the plan with the whole team before leaving.

Resources

• Developing an IAP (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Guide Scouts through the planning process step by step.
• Encourage Scouts to use maps during planning.
• Review assignments before the search begins.
• Keep the focus on safety and teamwork.

Requirement 7c: Conduct a PAUSE Briefing

What You Need To Do

Conduct a PAUSE briefing before the search to review safety concerns, hazards, Scout Essentials, and team gear.

Helpful Tips

• Review weather conditions before starting the search.
• Check that everyone has water and proper clothing.
• Make sure each person carries the Scout Essentials.
• Discuss hazards like rough terrain, heat, insects, or poison plants.
• Review the buddy system before leaving.
• Check radios, whistles, flashlights, and batteries.
• Identify shared gear like maps and first aid kits.
• Review emergency contact procedures.
• Confirm search boundaries and meeting locations.
• Encourage everyone to ask questions before the search starts.

Resources

• Pause. Look. Act. (video)
• Risk Assessment (video)
• PAUSE Safety Moment (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Keep the safety briefing short and organized.
• Ask Scouts to show their personal gear.
• Review emergency plans before teams spread out.
• Watch for missing or unsafe equipment.

Requirement 7d: Execute the Search

What You Need To Do

Carry out the practice search using the plan created by the team.

Helpful Tips

• Stay with your assigned search team.
• Follow the search plan and assigned routes.
• Keep communication clear during the search.
• Watch carefully for clues and signs of the missing person.
• Mark searched areas on the map.
• Stop and report important clues right away.
• Stay aware of hazards while moving through the area.
• Use whistles or radios if help is needed.
• Search slowly enough to avoid missing clues.
• Return to the meeting point at the assigned time.

Leader Tips

• Monitor the teams during the exercise.
• Encourage steady and organized searching.
• Remind Scouts to report clues immediately.
• Pause the activity if safety problems develop.

Requirement 7e: Hold a Team Debriefing

What You Need To Do

Discuss the results of the practice search and review what worked well and what could improve.

Helpful Tips

• Gather all search teams together after the exercise.
• Review whether the missing person was found.
• Discuss clues and important observations from the search.
• Talk about communication problems during the activity.
• Identify tactics that worked well.
• Discuss areas where teams became confused or delayed.
• Review safety concerns from the exercise.
• Share ideas for improving future searches.
• Check that all gear is returned and accounted for.
• Thank everyone for helping with the exercise.

Resources

• Philmont Thorns and Roses (website)

Leader Tips

• Give every Scout a chance to speak during the debriefing.
• Focus on teamwork and problem solving instead of mistakes.
• Review safety lessons from the activity.
• Encourage Scouts to suggest improvements for future exercises.

Requirement 8a: Careers in Search and Rescue and Emergency Management

What You Need To Do

Research a career related to search and rescue or emergency management. Find information about training, education, costs, job duties, salary, job outlook, and opportunities for advancement. Discuss your findings and your interest in the career with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a career connected to emergency response or outdoor rescue.
• Use trusted websites, books, libraries, or interviews for research.
• Look for information about required certifications or degrees.
• Check how much training may cost.
• Research daily job duties and work schedules.
• Find out if the job involves travel, outdoor work, or emergencies.
• Look at salary ranges and future job demand.
• Ask a professional about challenges and rewards in the career.
• Take notes during interviews or research.
• Share which parts of the career interest you the most.

Careers To Consider

• Search and rescue technician
• Emergency management specialist
• Park ranger
• Firefighter
• Paramedic
• Police officer
• Conservation officer
• Wilderness guide
• Disaster response coordinator
• Helicopter rescue pilot
• K-9 handler
• Emergency dispatcher

Resources

• What it Means to be a Search and Rescue Responder (video)
• What It Actually Takes To Be a Rescue Swimmer in the Coast Guard (video)
• U.S. Air Force: Combat Search and Rescue (video)
• Emergency Management Directors (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts find reliable career information sources.
• Encourage Scouts to ask professionals practical questions.
• Discuss how Scout skills connect with emergency careers.
• Keep conversations focused on preparation and service.

Requirement 8b: Volunteer Service in Rescue and Disaster Teams

What You Need To Do

Research how to volunteer with disaster relief groups, wilderness rescue teams, or ski patrol organizations. Find information about training, costs, and long-term opportunities. Discuss possible goals with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Research volunteer groups in your local area.
• Check age requirements for volunteer programs.
• Look for required first aid or CPR certifications.
• Find out if outdoor or rescue training is needed.
• Ask about uniforms, gear, or membership costs.
• Research how volunteers help during emergencies.
• Explore both short-term and long-term volunteer opportunities.
• Look for training weekends or practice exercises.
• Keep notes about organizations and requirements.
• Discuss which volunteer role sounds most interesting to you.

Ways To Volunteer

• Disaster relief volunteer
• Wilderness search team helper
• Community emergency response volunteer
• Ski patrol support volunteer
• Trail maintenance volunteer
• Emergency shelter helper
• Amateur radio emergency volunteer
• Event first aid volunteer
• Park or campground volunteer
• Flood or storm cleanup volunteer
• Red Cross disaster volunteer
• Local emergency preparedness volunteer

Resources

• How To Prepare To Join a Search and Rescue Team | SAR Training for Finding Missing Persons (video)
• Volunteer Search and Rescue Teams (video)
• Search and Rescue Volunteers (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to research local volunteer opportunities.
• Review safety and training requirements for volunteers.
• Help Scouts connect service goals with Scout skills.
• Discuss how volunteer experience can build leadership and confidence.

National Outdoor Awards – Adventure Segment Requirements

The National Outdoor Award for Adventure recognizes Scouts, Venturers, and Sea Scouts who excel in high-adventure activities. To earn it, participants must prepare for outdoor challenges and complete demanding activities like backpacking, paddling, or climbing. The Search and Rescue merit badge is one way to fulfill part of the requirements, helping Scouts build skills for emergencies in the wild.

This award encourages older Scouts to try new adventures and push their limits. It’s a great way to stay engaged in Scouting while learning advanced outdoor skills. Earning the Search and Rescue merit badge can also boost confidence and preparedness for real challenges.

Wilderness Survival Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Wilderness Survival program feature helps Scouts prepare for unexpected challenges outdoors. It includes activities like building shelters, creating survival kits, and learning signaling techniques. Scouts can also explore Trek Safely guidelines and wilderness first aid. These skills are valuable for earning the Search and Rescue merit badge, which focuses on being ready for emergencies.

The program offers engaging games and activities for troop meetings, such as Kim’s Game with survival items and practicing signals. Advanced challenges like overnight camping with minimal gear build confidence. These lessons align well with the Search and Rescue merit badge by teaching preparedness and problem-solving outdoors.

Winter Camping Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Winter Camping program feature helps Scouts learn how to stay warm, safe, and comfortable during cold-weather adventures. Activities include building shelters like snow caves, preparing high-calorie meals, and understanding the principles of wick, wind, and warmth. These skills are also useful for the Search and Rescue merit badge, especially when dealing with cold-weather emergencies.

Troop meetings can include fun games like a Dress for Cold Relay or pitching a tent in the snow. Advanced challenges, like building and sleeping in an igloo, build confidence. Scouts earning the Search and Rescue merit badge will also benefit from learning how to treat hypothermia and use ice rescue techniques.

Emergency Preparedness Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Emergency Preparedness program feature teaches Scouts how to handle emergencies like accidents, natural disasters, and lost-person searches. Scouts practice skills such as CPR, making emergency kits, and learning troop mobilization techniques. These activities also connect to the Search and Rescue merit badge, which helps Scouts understand how to assist in emergencies.

Troop meetings include games like a Bandage Relay and Stretcher Relay to build first aid skills. Scouts can visit emergency response teams or participate in disaster drills for hands-on learning. These activities reinforce leadership and preparedness, key lessons of the Search and Rescue merit badge, and help Scouts stay ready to help their communities.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Search and Rescue merit badge helps Scouts learn how teams respond when someone is lost or in danger. It fits well in the merit badge program because it teaches clear thinking, planning, and safe action. Scouts learn how searches are organized and how rescuers work together. This adds an important emergency skill to the wide range of merit badges.

This badge also connects to others that focus on preparedness and service. A Scout who enjoys Search and Rescue might also try First Aid, Emergency Preparedness, or Wilderness Survival. These badges help Scouts build confidence and understand how to help others in difficult situations. The variety lets them explore different skills.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Search and Rescue merit badge supports the larger Scouts BSA program by building leadership, responsibility, and teamwork. Scouts learn how to communicate, follow directions, and stay calm. These habits support personal development and good decision-making.

It also supports citizenship. Scouts see how trained people protect their communities and save lives. They learn that careful choices and steady effort can make a real difference.

What do you learn by earning the Search and Rescue merit badge?

You learn how to assist in finding and rescuing people in emergencies. You study different types of searches, how to use maps and GPS, how to stay safe, and how SAR teams work together.

Do I need any special skills to start the Search and Rescue merit badge?

No special skills are needed to start. You will learn what you need as you work on the requirements, like map reading, teamwork, and first aid.

What is the difference between search and rescue?

Search is about finding the missing person. Rescue is helping them get to safety after they are found. The Search and Rescue merit badge teaches skills for both.

What equipment do I need for the Search and Rescue merit badge?

You’ll need basic outdoor gear, like a map, compass, sturdy shoes, and a first aid kit. For some activities, your troop may provide tools like radios or marking tape.

Do I need to join a SAR team to earn the Search and Rescue merit badge?

No, you don’t need to join a team. The Search and Rescue merit badge focuses on learning the basics and practicing them with your troop or patrol.

Can Scouts under 18 participate in real SAR missions?

In most cases, Scouts under 18 cannot join real SAR missions. This is for safety reasons. However, you can learn SAR skills by helping with practice searches or volunteering with SAR organizations in non-emergency roles.

How is the buddy system used in search and rescue?

The buddy system keeps searchers safe by ensuring no one is alone. Buddies can help each other, spot hazards, and stay on track. The Search and Rescue merit badge explains why this is important.

Are there careers in search and rescue?

Yes, there are many careers, like park ranger, firefighter, EMT, or SAR pilot. You can also volunteer with local SAR teams or groups like Civil Air Patrol.

Why is teamwork important in search and rescue?

SAR missions rely on teamwork to be successful. Teams work together to search large areas, communicate findings, and ensure everyone’s safety. The Search and Rescue merit badge teaches you how to be an effective team member.

What is the most important thing to remember about SAR?

Safety is the most important thing. Whether you’re searching or helping someone in need, you must stay safe to be effective. The Search and Rescue merit badge helps you learn how to prepare and stay calm in emergencies.

The Search and Rescue merit badge teaches Scouts how to find and help people in emergencies. You’ll learn the difference between searching for someone and rescuing them. This badge focuses on skills like planning, teamwork, and staying safe while helping others.

Scouts who earn the Search and Rescue merit badge learn to use maps, compasses, and GPS devices. You’ll practice techniques like hasty searches, clue awareness, and evidence preservation. These tools and methods make searches faster and more effective.

This merit badge also explains how professional SAR teams work. You’ll explore careers like park rangers, firefighters, and SAR pilots. You’ll also learn about volunteer roles, like joining local SAR teams or helping in disasters. By earning the Search and Rescue merit badge, you gain important skills that can make a real difference in emergencies.