What is the scope of the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue?

The International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) is an international agreement between parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation, and the safety of persons and property at sea. SAR is an important international agreement, binding to parties that have signed and ratified it. The scope of SAR covers the organization of search and rescue services for persons in distress at sea and the associated coordination of related activities, such as the physical rescue of persons in distress and the provision of medical assistance. The agreement sets out how rescue operations are to be conducted in a coordinated manner, and on what basis search areas are to be established to assist in locating persons in distress at sea. The responsibilities of the parties to SAR include the establishment of national search and rescue services and plans, the organization of regional search and rescue services, the development of international training and exchange of personnel, and the provision of communications and other equipment to facilitate search and rescue operations. Parties also undertake to cooperate in the rendering of assistance to persons in distress at sea and to exchange information and data. In Illinois, the Coast Guard is the lead agency for all search and rescue operations. The Coast Guard is responsible for the coordination of all inter-agency search and rescue efforts, the establishment of a 24-hour search and rescue duty center, and the implementation of a national Search and Rescue Management Plan. The SAR Agreement dictates that all SAR operations should be conducted in the most efficient, expeditious, and safe manner possible.

Related FAQs

What are the main principles of maritime law?
How does maritime or admiralty law apply to accidents or damages caused on board a vessel?
What is the scope of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments?
What is the scope of protection offered under the Hamburg Rules of 1978?
What is the law of the sea?
What is the scope of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes against Internationally Protected Persons, including Diplomatic Agents?
What is the scope of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships?
What is the scope of the International Maritime Organization’s International Ship and Port Facility Security Code?
What is the scope of the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea?
What is the scope of the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding the Basics of Maritime Law - July 31, 2023
Exploring the Requirements of Maritime Contracts - August 7, 2023
Navigating Ship Registration with Maritime Law - August 14, 2023
Filing Maritime Liens and Ship Mortgages - August 21, 2023
Comprehending Maritime Insurance and Its Value - August 28, 2023