When does a rescue mission officially begin?

A rescue mission officially begins before the call for rescue goes out because the planning and preparation for the mission often start well in advance. This involves assessing the need for a rescue, gathering resources, and mobilizing the team. Even if the formal call has not occurred, awareness of a potential rescue scenario can trigger discussions and actions that set the groundwork for an effective response. This proactive approach allows rescuers to be better prepared, ensuring they can deploy rapidly once an official call is made. Recognizing that the mission's success often relies on the preparation phase underscores the importance of being ready even before formal activation.