Q&A SHEET RE: RAPID RESPONSE TEAM
Q: What is a Rapid Response Team?
A: The Rapid Response Team is composed of volunteers who are trained citizen patrollers. A Team is assembled whenever the Omaha Police request help from the Omaha Coalition of Citizen Patrols to search for a missing person, such as a child or elderly person.
Q: Do I need to obtain specialized training to volunteer to be part of the Rapid Response Team?
A: No. The only training you need is the training you took to become a citizen patroller. You would also be expected to attend one orientation meeting at which the operations and functions of a Rapid Response team would be explained in greater detail to you.
Q: When or how often would I be called out to help with Rapid Response if I sign up for the Rapid Response Team?
A: If you sign up to help with the Rapid Response Team, you could receive a call at anytime of the day or night, depending upon the circumstances and the situation. The patrols in the precinct where the incidence/event has occurred will be called first, other precincts will be called as needed.
Q: Do I have to say yes if I am called to assist with a search?
A: No. Obviously the strength of our ability to assist the police depends upon the willingness of our volunteers to respond to a call-out at all hours of the day or night. However, if you have to work, are not home, or for whatever reason, feel you cannot respond to the request, you are under no obligation to go and you can say no.
Q: What if I am able to help out for only a short time, but the search takes much longer?
A: That’s fine. When you show up to help with the search, just let whoever is in charge know that.
Q: If I am called out, what exactly would I be asked to do?
A: First, you would be directed to meet at a certain location where a command center would be set up. Then you would receive a briefing on the situation. Most likely, you would be assigned to patrol in a vehicle with a team partner and be given specific instructions on what to do.
Q: Do I need to bring any equipment with me like a flashlight or radio?
A: Not unless you are directed to do so. The Rapid Response Team will supply all equipment. ALWAYS wear your OCCP ID badge.
Q: What kind of clothing should I wear?
A: Dress appropriately for the weather, and wear hard-soled shoes.
Q: Has the Rapid Response Team ever made a difference when the police have searched for a missing person?
A: Over the years, the Rapid Response Team has been instrumental in dozens of call-outs with numerous situations involving lost children, and lost elderly persons. Overall, the Rapid Response Team has had a 90% effectiveness rate.