What is the composition of a three-person tracking team typically used in SAR operations?

The composition of a three-person tracking team in Search and Rescue operations is typically structured as a point person and two flankers. This configuration maximizes the team's effectiveness in navigating and searching an area while maintaining safety and communication.

The point person leads the way, primarily responsible for following the track or sign of the subject being searched for. This individual needs to be skilled in tracking techniques and has the closest visual and auditory contact with the environment around them.

The flankers, positioned on either side of the point person, have the critical role of observing potential signs of the individual being tracked that the point person might miss. They also help maintain the safety of the team by keeping an eye on each other and the surrounding environment, allowing the team to cover a broader area while minimizing the risk of losing sight of one another. This formation enhances situational awareness and helps the team respond quickly to any developments during the search.

This structure is hierarchical, allowing for efficient communication and decision-making while ensuring that every team member has a clear role in the tracking process, thus increasing the likelihood of success in locating the subject.