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Once you have officially joined WRT as a member, we encourage everyone to pursue a certification through MASAR.
Without being a certified search team member, you are permitted to go on a search with another certified person from the team who is able and willing to be your guide through the search.
If you are a certified search team member, you can go on any search that WRT is requested to attend even if you are the only WRT member available.
The Search Team Member checklist below shows all of the skills that you need to complete. The overview is as follows:
Pass the BASAR online class
Complete the FEMA ICS 100 course and give the certificate provided to the team secretary
Pass the BASAR written exam with a score of 75 or higher; the test must be completed in under two hours and includes both multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blank map-based questions. The test is offered at least once per year by WRT.
Demonstrate proficiency in the skills deemed necessary through the MASAR standards (shown below).
Pass the team's annual fit test: Walk two miles in 30 minutes or less with a 25-pound pack. You cannot walk. The test is offered at least once per year by WRT.
Please review the MASAR standards and checklists below for a more detailed overview of the requirements.
MASAR Standards
MASAR Standards
Recommended Items
Recommended Items
Flagging/Trail Marking Ribbon: I came across this flagging tape on Amazon. It is welded, so it shouldn't unspool. It also claims to be biodegradable should a piece get left behind.
Tall Bog/Muck Boots: Unless we are doing a wilderness search or rescue, tall waterproof boots can be a huge help to keep you dry.
SAR Support members assist SAR operations only at the Command Post and similar locations with a few exceptions.
Except where allowed by MASAR policy, this certification defines the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a member of a MASAR-certified unit to participate in search and rescue operations managed by the Maine Warden Service.Â
To become an RTM, applicants must first achieve STM certification. A key step in this process is successfully completing the 'Rigging for Rescue' course which is typically available biennially to a very limited number of WRT team members.
Certification issued under this standard is required for those who wish to lead search teams while participating in search and rescue incidents in the State of Maine.
If/when you are called out for a search or participate in Baxter State Park coverage, please make sure that you are familiar with and follow the MASAR media policy.
Online Courses
Online Courses
This online class is required before you can take the in-person BASAR exam. WRT members can request a discount code from the team secretary to receive a discount on the class, which brings the cost for the member to under $11.
In order to become STM certified, you must pass the FEMA Incident Command 100 course. It is 100% free and online.
WFA/WFR
WFA/WFR
We are thrilled to be part of Survival Med's No Barrier program, which offers all of our team members 20% off all of the virtual training courses that they offer (including WFA and WFR). Use code MAINEWILDTM when checking out.
Susie did her most recent recertification for WFA through Survival Med and would be happy to share her experience with anyone interested.
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