comdtinst m16114.32c - U.S. Coast Guard

Part 2 – Operations and Missions
Chapter 5 – Mission Types
SAR System, Program Objectives, and Program Standards
B.3. SAR System
The SAR system is an arrangement of components activated, as needed,
to assist persons or property in potential or actual distress. Unit SAR
system components may include:
(01) U
nit personnel
(02)
Communications watches
(03) Unit training program
(04) Boat crews
(05) Boats and equipment
(06) Vehicles and equipment
(07) Buildings, property, and equipment
B.4. Program
Objectives
The following objectives define expectations of the Coast Guard’s
maritime SAR system.
(01) To minimize loss of life, personnel injury, and property loss and
damage in the maritime environment.
(02) To minimize search duration and crew risk during SAR missions
by applying the principals of Reference (l).
B.5. Program
Standards
The response standards of particular applicability to unit operations
include:
(01) Command and Control. Initiate action within five minutes of
initial notification of a distress incident.
(02) SAR Response. A Bravo-Zero (B-0) response time is defined as a
SAR unit underway within 30 minutes of notification of a
distress.
NOTE Area/DOG/District Commanders establish unit readiness (i.e. “Bravo”)
requirements. A readiness lower than B-0 (e.g. B-2) may be appropriate in certain
areas at certain times of the year.
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