Abstract
Introduction
Grand Canyon National Park Rangers respond frequently to calls for assistance in the backcountry. The Preventive Search and Rescue Team (PSAR) seeks to educate the hiking public in Grand Canyon and reduce the number of hikers requiring assistance.
Objectives
This study investigates the effectiveness of the PSAR Team by examining its impact on heat-related search and rescues (SARs) and non-heat-related SARs, in addition to its fiscal impact.
Methods
Historical data collected on heat-related and non-heat-related SARs was used to develop predictive models about pre-PSAR SAR rates. These models were then compared to recent data collected by the PSAR Team on heat-related and non-heat-related SARs that occurred after the inception of the PSAR Team.
Results
A 42% reduction in heat-related SARs, 21% reduction in non-heat-related SARs, and an annual fiscal savings of at least $300,000 were observed after the implementation of the PSAR Team.
Conclusions
The PSAR Team has a great impact on the occurrence of SARs, both heat and non-heat related. By effectively reducing the number of responses required by rangers in Grand Canyon National Park, the PSAR Team saves the National Park Service over $300,000 annually.