Whom is responsible for initiating SAR after loss of communications with a Coast Guard asset?

• A. The units OPCON
• B. The commanding officer of the asset
• C. The fleet operations center
• D. The duty watchstander

Answer: (A)

When a Coast Guard asset loses communications, the authority to start search and rescue tasks lies with the unit that has operational control over that asset. The OPCON command can direct the asset, assign search patterns, coordinate with other assets, and initiate the SAR response based on distress indicators, last known position, and established procedures. The asset’s commanding officer follows OPCON’s direction but does not unilaterally initiate SAR on their own. The fleet operations center serves in coordination and information flow, not as the primary initiator of the SAR response for a specific asset. The duty watchstander monitors the situation and can elevate the event, but does not initiate the SAR action itself.