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SAR cooperation plan

A SAR cooperation plan must be developed by the ship, ship-owner and the SAR (search and rescue) services in accordance with the guidelines of the International Maritime Organization IMO (MSC / Circ. 1079 / Rev. 1 with appendices). The aim of SAR cooperation planning is to enhance mutual understanding between a ship, the ship-owner and JRCCs so that in the event of an emergency, all three parties will be able to work together efficiently. The information included in the plan must be readily available and up to date.

Learn more: Take a look at the SAR cooperation plan

Download the plan (pdf):
SAR Cooperation Plan (JRCC Bodø & JRCC Stavanger, 2024)

The role of the Norwegian Search and Rescue Agency

The Norwegian Search and Rescue Agency (Hovedredningssentralen) is responsible for coordinating major rescue operations across Norway’s vast and challenging terrain. This responsibility is carried out through two Joint Rescue Coordination Centres (JRCCs), located in Bodø and Sola (near Stavanger), as well as 13 rescue sub-centres operated by local police districts.

The JRCCs have overall operational responsibility during SAR missions. They coordinate efforts across multiple agencies and resources, ensuring a unified and efficient response. The dividing line between JRCC Bodø and JRCC Stavanger runs along the 65th parallel north, between the counties of Trøndelag and Nordland.

A Vast Area of Responsibility

Norway’s Search and Rescue Region (SRR) covers one of the largest areas in Europe. It stretches from 57°N in the North Sea all the way to the North Pole, and from the Prime Meridian (0°) to 35°E longitude. This includes remote Arctic areas, rugged coastlines, and sparsely populated inland regions — all of which present unique challenges for rescue operations.

Despite these challenges, Norway maintains a high standard of preparedness and coordination, ensuring that help is always within reach when lives are at risk.

How do I notify?

Notification of an accident is given to the JRRC or to the nearest police authority on the emergency telephone number 112. Notification of a missing person is given to the police.

Integration and coordination in Norwegian search and rescue

In Norway, search and rescue (SAR) refers specifically to emergency operations aimed at saving lives and preventing serious injury. The SAR mission does not include actions to protect property, production, or the environment, nor does it involve preventive measures.

The Norwegian Search and Rescue Agency operates under a fully integrated coordination structure, enabling each Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) to manage operations across land, sea, and air. This includes rescue missions on offshore oil and gas installations, as well as international operations requiring cross-border collaboration.

A cornerstone of the Norwegian SAR model is its cooperative organization. Government agencies, volunteer organizations, and private companies contribute resources and expertise, working together seamlessly under a unified command structure.

This model provides a cost-effective, highly efficient, and flexible system — offering optimal conditions for situational awareness, decision-making, and operational control. In fact, Norway’s integrated and cooperative SAR structure is considered unique on a global scale.