Emergency Services FAQ

Emergency Services

What are the guidelines as far as training cadets in CPR and/or First Aid? Is there any specific organization that CAP wants squadrons to use for this training? What are the requirements to be certified as far as SAR and ES is concerned?

Note: Generally the only first aid and CPR training requirements are in the area of emergency services, primarily for ground team members. See below from CAPR 60-3.

1-24. Legal Issues of CAP Operational Missions.

f. First Aid and Emergency Medical Care. CAP is not an emergency medical care or paramedic organization and should not advertise itself as such. CAP will not be the primary provider of medical support on missions or training events though qualified personnel can be used to support such activities. The only type of medical aid that should be administered by CAP personnel or by any other person at CAP's request is reasonable treatment deemed necessary to save a life or prevent human suffering. This treatment must be executed by a person qualified to attempt such medical care within their skill level. When first aid or higher medical training is required for qualification in a particular specialty, the expectation is that the qualification course includes both knowledge and practical skills training; first aid courses taken on-line only are not acceptable; though members are not considered employees when supporting operations, courses are expected to meet the National Guidelines for First Aid in Occupational Settings available at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3317first-aid.pdf or ASTM F 2171-02(2009), Standard Guide for Defining the Performance of First Aid Providers in Occupational Settings. CAP medical personnel are not provided supplemental malpractice insurance coverage, and any care provided is at the members own risk. Though medical supplies and equipment are not normally provided to responders, any reasonable supplies used on training or actual missions may be submitted for reimbursement as long as sufficient justification is provided.

We do not require them to take a specific organization’s courses or get specific certificates - there really are a variety of options across the country. Our intention is for personnel to meet and document completion of some basic standards. See the attached file below which should give you an idea as to what we are looking for when asked if we would consider a course equivalent. There are many courses and organizations that provide training to meet these requirements.

There is not a national program for CAP to get CPR and First Aid for free. Some units and wings have made arrangements locally with the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, National Safety Council, or other providers though. This is typically done by having members become instructors so that they can provide training at minimal cost if any. Some communities also offer free training like this to the public and CAP members can often take advantage of it, but again, there is no national program at this time.

Also see OSHA Best Practices Guide: Fundamentals of a Workplace First-Aid Program

NOTE: CAPR 60-3 is currently going through a revision that will clarify the First Aid training. In the meantime, CAP doesn't create in house first aid classes; we can’t take on that liability. However, members that are approved instructors for other organizations like ARC, AHA, NSC, ASHI, ECSI, MFA, etc. can teach those programs under that hat to our members. There are also many personnel that are able to line up training from military bases that will provide credit…self aid and buddy care for example. For credit, the member needs documentation of completion, so roster signed off by the instructor, etc. would work.

Are online-only first aid and CPR classes be acceptable for completing the requirement for ES qualifications?

No. CAPR 60-3 is clear on this point (ref page 18, paragraph 1-24f): "When first aid or higher medical training is required for qualification in a particular specialty, the expectation is that the qualification course includes both knowledge and practical skills training; first aid courses taken online only are not acceptable; though members are not considered employees when supporting operations, courses are expected to meet the National Guidelines for First Aid in Occupational Settings available at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3317first-aid.pdf or ASTM F 2171-02 (2009), Standard Guide for defining the Performance of First Aid Providers in Occupational Settings."

I was unable to find anything on the web site about an Aircraft Survival Kit, and I was wondering if you could send me a list of what is available?

The contents of the AIRCRAFT SURVIVAL KIT vary from region to region and season to season. Check with your wing or region for specific requirements.

Listed below is a typical AIRCRAFT SURVIVAL KIT.

AIRCRAFT SURVIVAL KIT- 3 PERSON - 3 DAYS

(1 ea) * USAF Aircrew Survival Manual AFP36-2246, 122 pages, current military (9 ea) Aqua-Bloc® 8.45 fl. oz. water pack, 1 per day per person (1 ea) * 5 qt plastic, water storage bag ( 1 ea) 8 oz. bag, hard survival candy (3 ea) food bar, 3600 calories - non-thirst provoking. 5 year storage life, 3 servings per person per day (1 ea) ACR Firefly Plus strobelight/flashlight, requires 2 AA batteries, included (3 ea) * space blanket, silver/orange foil, 56""X96"", featherlite & waterproof (3 ea) emergency sleeping bags manufactured from space blanket foil, windproof & waterproof (1 ea) * fire starter with 10 fire tabs, works ""one-handed"" in case of injury (1 ea) * signal mirror, acrylic 3""X5"" (1 ea) * magnetic pocket compass MC1 (1 ea) zipper thermometer (1 ea) * USAF survival knife, 5"", with leather handle, sheath & sharpening stone (1 ea) * heavy-duty finger saw with finger rings and 2 blades (1 ea) * 10"" machete with sheath, belt clip & sharpening stone (1 ea) snare kit with two self-locking steel snares / (1 ea) * emergency fishing kit, fresh or salt water (1 ea) * survival whistle ACR/WW3, distinctive high pitch sound (1 ea) white nylon cord, 50', 500 lb test (1 ea) water purification tablets, 50 tablets - 6 gal water (1 ea) first aid minor emergency packet #1 - 25 items (1 ea) first aid packet #2 - misc. heavy bandages, 41 items (1 ea) personal hygiene kit c/o 3 toothbrushes, toothpaste, talcum powder, 3 pocket combs, 6 toilet paper, 3 soap and 3 garbage bags (1 ea) 36 hour canned candle (1 ea) 18"" X 36"" sheet aluminum foil (4 ea) AA batteries for strobelight/flashlight, 3-5 year storage life (3 ea) * plastic survival sunglasses (3 ea) 40"" X 48"" emergency poncho - orange (1 ea) *insect repellent stick - 1 oz. (1 ea) 2' X 6' signal panel - chartreuse & orange with tiedown cords. All items are stored in a 14"" X 16"" X 6"" USAF survival field pack. Water resistant & airtight, with rubber sealed metal zipper & shoulder straps for emergency backpacking. 24 lbs.

How do I complete my General Emergency Services (GES) qualification?

2-3. Specialty Rating Requirements and Performance Standards. For each specialty rating, SQTRs have been developed to train and qualify members in stages. The most current versions of the task guides for all specialties are found on the NHQ CAP/DOS website.

e. General Emergency Services (GES). To participate in emergency services training or operations, personnel must be current traditional members (not patrons, cadet sponsors, AEMs, or legislative members) having completed level one and cadet protection training (senior members) or achievement one (cadets). Individuals in temporary membership are not eligible for liability coverage under the FECA or FTCA. Individuals in temporary membership status are eligible to accomplish academic training activities, but are not authorized to observe mission base training and operations due to liability issues. In addition, they may not participate in any flight activities (including flight line activities) or ground, urban direction finding team, or CERT field activities. Other than these, there are no prerequisite requirements for GES. The General Emergency Services specialty rating is required of all individuals qualifying in emergency services and will be completed prior to commencing training for any other specialty. This training authorizes members to attend missions, observe activities and perform administrative and general operations support tasks under the direction of qualified staff personnel, essentially as a license to learn. Successful completion of the current CAPT 116, General Emergency Services Questionnaire and OPSEC Training, qualifies the member in the General Emergency Services Specialty Rating. To remain current in the GES specialty all current holders will complete new CAPTs 116 and OPSEC Training within 180 days of issuance of new examinations.

Is there minimum number of members required on a ground or urban DF team?

Yes. Ground teams will not be released without a qualified ground team leader and at least three qualified ground team members or supervised trainees. Urban DF teams will not be released with less than two personnel and CERTs will not be dispatched with less than three personnel. For more information, see CAPR 60-3, para 1-17.

How does one meet the requirements for award of an Emergency Services (ES) Qualification Badge and/or patch?

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of CAPR 35-6 covers the requirements for award of Emergency Services (ES) Qualification Badge and the CAP Emergency Services Patch.

Where can I find information about General Emergency Services Tasks?

You can find General Emergency Services training materials and links online at: Training Material

Are squadrons required to maintain emergency services qualification files such as copies of SQTRs on its senior members other than what is in e-services?

See documentation requirements in Paragraph 1-5c of CAPR 60-3.

What are the requirements for someone to train CAP members in their ground team member level 3 tasks? Do they just have to be GTM3 qualified and have their SQTR completed?

They need to be a qualified evaluator in accordance with CAPR 60-3, paragraph 2-2 to sign off on tasks. That does not prevent other members from supervising them on missions or providing other instruction, but the tasks need to be signed off by a qualified evaluator. For ground team members that would be a member qualified to the same level or higher or other specialties that can sign off. For example a Ground Branch director could sign off on tasks done remotely if they can verify accomplishment, but they don't have to. See CAPR 60-3.

Additionally, some wings have chosen to limit their list of evaluators further via approved supplement, so you may want to check with your wing to be sure that has not been done.

Where can I download the task guides Urban DF and Ground Team Member?

These are available at: https://nesa.cap.gov/about/schools/gsar

Can a member who is a Skills Examiner Trainer (SET) sign their off a task on a his/her own SQTR for a new ES rating. For example, John Doe is SET qualified as MRO, MSA. He is not MS qualified. Can he sign off tasks for MS on his own SQTR?

No, a member cannot sign off tasks for themselves. A separate qualified supervisor needs to evaluate the task.

Where can I find the specific requirements for the Ground Team Qualification Badge?

Paragraph 5 of CAPR 35-6 covers the requirements for award of Ground Team Badges.

5. Requirements for Award of the Ground Team Badges: a. Basic Ground Team Badge: Be qualified as a CAP ground team member IAW CAPR 60-3. b. Senior Ground Team Badge:

   (1) Be qualified as a CAP ground team leader IAW CAPR 60-3 or
   (2) Be qualified as a CAP ground team member – level one

c. Master Ground Team Badge. Be qualified as a CAP ground branch director IAW CAPR 60-3.

What are the CAP policies on knives both at CAP meetings and during CAP emergency services missions?

Sheath knives may be worn during your participation on emergency services missions, but there are some limits and some knife types are prohibited. Swiss Army knives, Leatherman or Gerber multipurpose type tools are recommended. Always check to make sure you are compliant with local laws.

The following guidance comes from GROUND & URBAN DIRECTION FINDING TEAM TASKS

e. Restrictions on Knives: You may only wear a sheath knife if authorized by your team leader. Sheath knives cannot have a blade longer than 6” or a total length of greater than 11”. The sheath must adequately secure the knife and protect the wearer from the blade. If authorized, sheath knives will be worn only on the pistol belt or carried inside the pack. The following knife types are not authorized: boot knives, butterfly knives, switch blades, double edged knives, “Rambo” style survival knives, or knives with retracting sheaths. Machetes or hatchets can only be carried by senior members when needed for that specific sortie. No knives may be visible when the member is performing crash sight surveillance duty. Knives may also be used for some aerospace education constructions. The regulation that governs cadet participation at CAP meetings, CAPR 52_16, is silent on the subject, but there is typically no on-going need for cadets to bring knives to regular CAP meetings.

Also see guidance below Paragraph 2 of CAPR 900-3. 2. Other Dangerous Weapons. Other than as provided for in paragraph 1 above, members engaged in CAP activities are prohibited from possessing or using weapons as defined by local state statutes as ""dangerous.""

Where can I find information on the water survival emergency services specialty qualification listed in CAPR 60-3?

Water Survival emergency services specialty qualification training listed in CAPR 60-3 is available on AXIS.

Please login to eServices and go to the upper left hand corner and select menu, in the dropdown, please go to Online Learning then select Learning Management System. The next screen, in the upper middle section, you should see Go To AXIS. Please select that option.

What operations and emergency services examinations are available online?

OPS and ES quizzes and exams are stored in the Learning Management System (LMS) in eSevices.

How do you get certificates from FEMA and IS courses to prove course completion for a civilian job?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has a online course to help first responders understand the federal government's National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS establishes standard incident management processes, protocols and procedures so that all responders — including those at the federal, state, tribal and local level — can coordinate their responses, share a common focus and place full emphasis on resolving the event.

You can request certificates from FEMA at: https://training.fema.gov/is/crslist.aspx

What are the specific requirements to be a qualified Mission Observer?

For the latest SQTRs see My Operations Qualifications in eServices.

Where can I find information on the National Incident Management System?

For more information on NIMS, please click on the following link: NIMS https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/nims

If a member's ES ground team qualifications expire are they still authorized to wear the ES patch and Ground team badge?

Just like the Air Force, once the Emergency Services (ES) or ground team badges are earned, they can be worn forever.

Does the CAPT 116 test have to be taken online or can it be administered at cadet meetings?

The CAPT 116 does not have to be taken online - it can be administered in a paper form at local units. The preferred method of completion is online but if that is not possible, contact the CAP/DO at do@capnhq.gov to request a hard copy of the test.

When the test is taken online the results are automatically stored in the testing system, and completion is automatically forwarded into the national database requiring less administrative support than taking it at a unit meeting using the paper form.

If the test is administered via hard copy, once the test is passed, the Emergency Services Officer or testing officer can enter the completion as a task into Ops Quals under the GES Achievement.

Can cadets who are qualified ground team leaders, but under 18, train others as ground team leaders?

Cadets cannot become qualified ground team leaders if they are under 18. They can qualify through ground team member level one which has overlapping tasks with the ground team leader specialty, and could train personnel on those tasks, but could not supervise a ground team leader on a mission.

I would like to have a list of field gear items for a SAR-EX/SAR. What should be in the 24/72 hour pack?

Contents may vary from region to region based on weather and other conditions. Check with your wing for specific requirements. A sample list at Attachment B of the NESA policies and procedures at the following link: Packing lists.

Do cadets participate in operational missions? If so, what type of missions? Under what circumstances would a cadet be sent on a mission?

Cadets often participate in missions. See guidance below from Section B, Paragraphs 1-10e of CAPR 60-3.

e. Use of qualified CAP cadets is encouraged as much as possible on appropriate missions. Cadets should be trained in the various functions of mission operations and support as permitted. Cadets qualify no differently than adult members in emergency services qualifications, and can be properly utilized in age-appropriate scenarios. Additional guidance for employing cadets on missions can be found on the CAP/DOS website at Cadets in Emergency Services.

The above reference to the CAP/DOS website is outdated and will be updated with the next version of CAPR 60-3. Please visit the following website to review cadet participate: https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/emergency-services/operations-support/cadets-in-emergency-services

Could you clarify the eligibility of Mission Base staff to earn the "Find" ribbon in support of the Ground Team?

Credit towards FIND ribbons is normally given to the aircrew and/or ground team that located the objective; however, a search force including incident staff and other aircrews and teams involved may be credited with a FIND.

See criteria from CAPR 60-3, para 1-27 and 1-28

Point of Distribution Course (PODC)

The requirement for Point of Distribution course (PODC) credit has been changed to allow credit for the online FEMA ""IS-26: Guide to Points of Distribution Course"". This removes the requirement for both the in-residence course and the online course. The FEMA course can be accessed at: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=is-26 . Until we have a place holder in the Emergency Services upload documents in Ops Quals, members should load the certificate as “Other” and identify the certificate as there IS-26 PODC completion they should then enter their completion date on the PODC SQTR for approval.

For those members that previously completed the course in residence training the unit can enter their training completion date and approve the completion. We highly encourage these members to complete the IS-26 course.

Once a NIMS course is completed online (e.g., IS-800) how does it get entered on my SQTR in eServices?

See procedures below from National Incident Management System (NIMS) Personnel completing IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, and IS-800 online must upload a copy of the course certificate in ""Ops Quals"" in eServices. Unfortunately, completion of these courses cannot be automatically loaded into Ops Qualifications in eServices as this is not supported by DHS. To upload a document follow the steps below: 1) Log into eServices 2) Go to ""Operations Qualifications"" under Operations 3) Click on ""Entry/View Worksheet"" 4) Enter your CAP ID 5) Select ""View/Upload Documents"" right below your name at the top of the screen. 6) Select the document you would like to upload from the drop down menu. 7) Browse for the document on your computer and upload. After the training/document is validated, you will see credit in the training areas.

Should you walk backwards while marshalling an aircraft? Any references?

Individuals need to be taught where to stand when directing aircraft so they will not have to move backward.  One of the Flight Line Marshaller’s responsibilities is to be responsible for the safety of assistants and trainees by verifying they know where to stand when directing aircraft, so they will not have to move backward.

See below from Aircrew & Flightline Tasks:

O-3001 Discuss Flight Line Marshaller’s Responsibilities 2. You are responsible for the safety of your assistants and trainees, assuring they are properly trained a. Verify they know where to stand when directing aircraft, so they will not have to move backward. b. Verify they know the proper hand and arm signals to direct the aircraft. c. Verify that they know how to communicate with you and you with the Flight Line Supervisor for instructions.

O-3009 Perform Aircraft Taxi Procedures 2. CAP personnel marshalling aircraft must position themselves to meet the following requirements a. Never position yourself in the path of an oncoming aircraft b. Never position yourself in a location where any part of an aircraft will pass over you c. Never walk backwards on the ramp d. Never run on the ramp e. Always marshal aircraft entering a congested ramp under CAP control f. Always get enough personnel to control aircraft movement without compromising safety g. Always position yourself where you can maintain direct eye contact with the pilot-in-command (ten feet to the pilot’s left of the left wing tip and far enough in front of the aircraft to allow for a turn in front of you is ideal) h. Always hand the aircraft off to the next marshaller before the pilot losses sight of you. 3. Careful planning of the number of resources and their position can accomplish this with ease. Suggested marshaller positioning is shown on the following diagrams for departing (fig. 1) and arriving (fig. 2) aircraft.

You can also take the ""Aircraft Ground Handling"" Course on Learning Management System to learn more about aircraft movement. "

Where can I find the requirements to be a flight line marshaller?

For Flight Line Marshaller (FLM) requirements see My Operations Qualifications under eServices. Also refer to Para 2-3 of CAPR 60-3. The following link will take you to the SQTRs in Ops Quals. The SQTR outlines all the training requirements for FLM: Flight Line Marshaller SQTR There is not a minimum age for Flight Line Marshaller.

Where can I find the hand signals used on the flight line for marshalling aircraft? I'm trying to train several new cadets on the hand signals.

See Chapter 2 of AIR FORCE MANUAL 11-218 AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS AND MOVEMENT ON THE GROUND (Large PDF File)

This instruction implements AFPD 11-2, Flight Rules and Procedures. It prescribes rules for the operation, movement, and control of aircraft on the ground. This instruction applies to ground operations of all USAF aircraft operating in an aircraft apron/ramp and movement area at any airfield, whether military, civilian, or foreign. This instruction does not apply to specialized maintenance procedures normally conducted away from aircraft apron/ramp and movement areas, such as engine runs conducted in approved sound suppressors. This instruction applies to all personnel operating USAF aircraft on the ground, whether military, civilian, or contractor.

What type of training and supervision is required for CAP members to marshall aircraft at an airshow?

CAP members may not direct parking of aircraft at air shows unless they have received training on aircraft marshalling and have a flight line authorization on CAPF 101 or CAPF 101T. A fully certified flight line marshaller (FLM) should be present to supervise all members in trainee status.

In addition, from CAPR 900-5, the following rules must be followed.

b. Permitted Activities. CAP units and members may assist with an air show sponsored and conducted wholly by agencies and organizations other than CAP. Prior permission to assist or participate in any air show must be obtained from the General Counsel at National Headquarters. No such advance permission is required if the CAP assistance or participation in an air show is limited to the following: (1) CAP members may be used as guides or to provide directions or information. (2) CAP units may setup a recruiting booth and/or a concession stand selling food and drinks on the premises of an air show, providing that CAP is not in any way acting as a sponsor. (3) CAP members may be used around parked or static display aircraft for guidance, information or direction.

Are there any CAP regulations regarding recall rosters?

Yes. CAPR 60-3 requires CAP wings to establish and maintain an alerting system to be used throughout the wing to provide immediate response on a limited basis at all times and full-scale operations as soon as possible. It does not mandate a particular form or method for the recall roster such as a telephone recall or electronic notification, but does require the established alerting system to be used throughout the wing.

On my 101 card it says that I am SET qualified. What exactly is my function as a skills evaluator. What am I qualified to do?

As a qualified evaluator you may certify CAP members training in those areas under your supervision.

For more information please refer to CAPR 60-3, para 2-2.

I am aware that CAP Regulations do not allow aircrew to use night vision goggles, but is there a regulation prohibiting use among Ground Teams?

No. CAP ground resources may use night vision devices in support of SAR/DR operations while on foot or as passengers in vehicles. Use of night vision devices by drivers during motor vehicle operations is prohibited.

Night vision devices may not be used by the pilot flying CAP aircraft. However, night vision devices may be used by scanners and observers who have completed nationally approved training in the use of this equipment. Only nationally approved night vision devices are authorized for use.

Where can I find information on the AF Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC)?

As the United States' inland search and rescue (SAR) coordinator, the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC) serves as the single agency responsible for coordinating on-land federal SAR activities in the 48 contiguous United States, Mexico and Canada.

The AFRCC is located under the 1st AF (AFNORTH) at Tyndall Air Force Base, FL. and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The center directly ties in to the Federal Aviation Administration's alerting system and the U.S. Mission Control Center. In addition to the Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking information, the AFRCC computer system contains resource files that list federal and state organizations, which can conduct or assist in SAR efforts throughout North America. When a distress call is received, the center investigates the request, coordinates with federal, state, and local officials, and determines the type and scope of response necessary. Once verified as an actual distress situation, the AFRCC requests support from the appropriate federal SAR force. This may include Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, or other Department of Defense assets, as needed. State agencies can be contacted for state, local, or civil SAR resource assistance within their jurisdiction. The AFRCC chooses the rescue force based on availability and capability of forces, geographic location, terrain, weather conditions, and urgency of the situation. During ongoing SAR missions, the center serves as the communications hub and provides coordination and assistance to on-scene commanders or mission coordinators in order to recover the mission's objective in the safest and most effective manner possible. AFRCC uses state-of-the-art technology including a network of satellites for monitoring emergency locator transmitter signals. Systems such as these help reduce the critical time required to locate and recover people in distress.

What is the criteria for award of the incident commander's badge?

Incident Commander Badge. A three-level specialty insignia was approved for those members qualifying as Incident Commanders under CAPR 60-3. The senior badge is worn by members earning the IC-2 rating and the master badge by those earning the IC-1 rating. The badge is worn in the same position as the Ground Team Badge and other specialty insignia. A cloth version is available for wear on the BDU and field uniforms

Are Cadets authorized to wear specialty track badges? If so, what are the requirements for earning these badges?

Cadets can earn and wear certain specialty badges although they do not receive the technician rating until they complete the requirements as senior members. There are some positions which have age limitations which would prohibit cadets from holding certain jobs. Badges presently available for cadets include Emergency Services, Communications and History.

Also please see CAPR 35-6, CAPR 60-3, CAPR 210-1, CAPP 223

Is there a requirement to wear a safety vest with BDUs during ground team activities?

Safety vests rules have changed. The policy can be found in CAPR 160-1 in section 3.6. titled "Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)".