Emergency Services

Civil Air Patrol’s Emergency Services mission plays a critical role in supporting communities and agencies across the nation. From disaster relief to search and rescue operations, CAP’s volunteers are highly trained and equipped to respond to a variety of emergencies. The following sections provide resources, guidance, and support materials for CAP’s Emergency Services personnel.

The National Operations Center (NOC)

The hub for CAP’s operational coordination, the NOC provides real-time support, monitoring, and communication for missions nationwide, ensuring timely and effective response.

Aircraft and sUAS Operations (DOV/DOU)

CAP operates a fleet of powered aircraft and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for various missions, including search and rescue, disaster relief, and homeland security. Aircraft operations include mission planning, training, and maintenance, ensuring pilots and aircrews are mission-ready. sUAS provide additional capabilities for aerial reconnaissance and imagery collection, enhancing CAP’s ability to support emergency services.

Communications (DOK)

Provides essential guidance and resources for CAP’s communications infrastructure, including VHF-FM, HF, and digital communication systems that ensure mission-critical connectivity.

Operations Education and Training (DOT) and the National Emergency Services Academy (NESA)

CAP provides specialized education and training programs to prepare members for emergency services missions. This includes classroom instruction, hands-on exercises, and real-world mission simulations. The National Emergency Services Academy (NESA) offers intensive, immersive training for members in areas such as search and rescue, disaster relief, and incident management, ensuring CAP personnel are mission-ready.

Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)

Offers resources and support for managing the emotional and psychological well-being of CAP personnel exposed to critical incidents during missions.