ACN 014/22 - MAR 2022 FIRST LIGHT SEARCH POLICY

R 031340Z MAR 22
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST COMDT NOTICE
BT
UNCLAS
ACN 014/22
SSIC 16130
SUBJ: FIRST LIGHT SEARCH POLICY
A. U.S. Coast Guard Addendum to the National Search and Rescue
Supplement (NSS) to the International Aeronautical and Maritime
Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR), COMDTINST M16130.2F
1. This ACN clarifies REF (A) concerning the phrase "sufficient
other information" as it relates to the types of information which
may be considered when determining the necessity of a first light
search subsequent to reported sightings of red or orange flares.
Advances in sensor technology warrant a modification of existing
policy.
2. Paragraph 3.4.3.3 of REF (A) remains unchanged and states that,
"Unresolved (insufficient information to either close or suspend)
red or orange flares require first-light searches."
3. Delete subsections (a) and (b) of section 3.4.3.3 of REF (A).
4. Paragraph I.1.1 of REF (A) lists types of information that may
be sufficient to indicate that no distress exists in red or orange
flare report cases, and therefore would not require a first light
search to be performed. In addition to the examples already listed
in this paragraph, the effectiveness of completed search efforts
may also be considered. The second sentence of this paragraph now
reads, "Examples of other information that might lead to such a
conclusion include, but are not limited to, positive indications
the sighted object was not a flare, notifications that an exercise
involving flares or objects that could be mistaken for flares is
underway in the same area, the effectiveness of completed search
efforts, etc."
5. The decision to suspend a case involving a report of a red or
orange flare must be consistent with section 3.8.3 of REF (A).
6. These changes will be incorporated into the next revision of
REF (A).
7. This message will be cancelled on 02 MAR 2023.
8. POC: CDR M. Mitchell (CG-SAR-1).
9. Released by RDML Scott W. Clendenin, Assistant Commandant for
Response Policy (CG-5R).
10. Internet release is authorized.