Despite the obvious costs associated with SAR operations, NPS will not seek reimbursement from the people it rescues out of concern that financial considerations would possibly keep individuals from reporting their situation or requesting SAR assistance in the early stages of distress. Also, NPS is concerned that if they ask for reimbursement the agency would become mandated to provide SAR services. This would take away the discretionary ability of the agency to decide how and when to provide SAR services and hold the agency liable for SAR-related tort actions. In addition, as an agency within the US Department of Interior, NPS is a participant member of the United States National Search and Rescue Plan, which states that SAR services provided to persons in danger or distress will be without subsequent cost recovery from the person(s) assisted.
