I have some concerns over the legislation that directs the Warden Service and its present approach to the missing patient in local towns.

I agree that while marshaling the resources they have is helpful and appreciated, local resources and assets commonly exceed that of the Warden Service response. One of the issues in the concept of search and rescue (SAR) is immediate response. This allows you to find a person before he or she wanders too far from the last known location. We all agree timely response is everything. In a remote location, the Warden Service may be the only response. In communities, the fire and rescue, EMS services and police departments should be searching long before the wardens arrive. Initial, local first response is key in the chain of survival. This mandated Warden’s Service “tak over” is part and parcel of the basic problem.

The communities of Maine and the tax-supported services they provide for the citizens are better trained for SAR of a patient in the first few hours. This especially applies in hypothermia and drowning situations, trauma and extrication of patients.

I think when local emergency services and volunteer entities are bypassed by the Warden Service citing a law, the end result will not be the best outcome for the patient. I think our representatives understand what is going on with their front line emergency services, being thwarted by an out-of-date law. I do not believe it was the intent of our Legislature to remove local autonomy and jurisdiction in rescue situations.

We should clearly allow the fire chief or incident commander the option (not mandate) to release control of the SAR to the wardens. The Warden Service response is designed for prolonged search with specialized teams, and should never prohibit local emergency response. The basic issue is quick response by those who know the area, and using the local resources available. A team effort is best with the warden service offering help to the community services. The Warden Service should be advocating for this law change, as they serve us, the citizens in the community. Sen. Mary Cathcart, by bringing forward this emergency legislation, is being responsible to her community.

Robert M. Bowie M.D.

Emergency physician

Board of directors, DEEMI Rescue Helicopter Service

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