Which type of map is preferred by most ground search and rescue teams?

Topographical maps are preferred by most ground search and rescue teams because they provide detailed information about the terrain, including elevation changes, landforms, and natural features. This type of map shows contour lines that represent changes in elevation, allowing SAR teams to understand the layout of the land, such as hills, valleys, and bodies of water.

Knowledge of the terrain is essential for planning search routes, identifying potential hazards, and determining accessibility to various areas, which is crucial in a time-sensitive SAR operation. Topographical maps also help teams evaluate the best locations for staging and provide critical information about the environment that could affect search and rescue efforts.

While road maps provide information about streets and navigable routes, they lack detail about topography and natural obstacles. Aerial and satellite maps can offer visual perspectives of the landscape but do not typically include the same level of detail regarding elevations and landforms found in topographical maps. The depth of information that topographical maps provide makes them the primary choice for SAR operations.