4.1 The three-volume International Aeronautical
and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR Manual) has been
developed and is maintained to assist Governments in meeting their
SAR needs, and the obligations they have accepted under the SOLAS
Convention, the SAR Convention and the Convention on International
Civil Aviation. Governments are encouraged to develop and improve
their SAR services, co operate with neighbouring States and to consider
SAR services to be part of a global system.
4.2 Each volume of the IAMSAR Manual is written
with specific SAR system duties in mind and can be used as a stand-alone
document, or, in conjunction with the other guidance documents, as
a means to attain a full view of the SAR system.
4.3 Volume I - Organization and Management discusses
the global SAR system concept, establishment of national and regional
SAR systems and co-operation with neighbouring States to provide effective
and economical SAR services.
4.4 Volume II - Mission Co-ordination assists
personnel who plan and co-ordinate SAR operations and exercises.
4.5 Volume III - Mobile Facilities -
is intended to be carried aboard ships, aircraft and rescue units
to help with performance of search, rescue or on-scene co-ordinator
functions and with aspects of SAR that pertain to their own emergencies.