Decision support systems in search, rescue and salvage operations at sea

This article presents the concept of a decision support system for maritime search, rescue and salvage operations. It describes the main ideas for systems in three areas of maritime rescue-search and rescue (saving lives), salvage (saving property at sea), and environment protection operations. It contains an analysis of the factors influencing the decisions of both marine navigators and shore-based centres. The general ideas of the systems are presented in the form of flow charts. An analysis was made of input data, working procedures, and the decisions based on these data and procedures. The simplified algorithm of the system is described. The principles of system utilisation are explained, developmental trends are described, and conclusions are drawn.