When a search and rescue team is dispatched on an emergency, they typically have a little bit of gear to get them started. This includes extra clothes, food and water, a shelter or bed (if needed), and other people you can call for comfort or assistance.
Obviously, it is important to have these items when you are needed, as there are sometimes parts that do not work well without them. A sleeping bag is a helpful addition if the person has no blankets!
The key thing to have on hand when looking for someone is the right thing to give. You do not want to give someone something that will anger or upset them, because then they would want nothing else but to go find someone who could help them.
Contents:
Hand-crank radio
A radio is the most essential piece of search and rescue gear. A radio can be used to contact family, friends, and other rescuers in an emergency.
Many radios have a hand-crank feature which can be used to automatically call out rescuers with similar frequencies. This is great!
Somerescueleaders suggest that you should have a radio but not make- sure you know how to use it! Having experience using a phone or texting with your radio is a must- make sure you know how to use it!
A good sized radio should hold a decent amount of signal strength. Make sure it has quality bands loaded into it so that you do not run out of signal strength or quality.
Maps
Finding your way is one of the most important things you can do when searching. Knowing where you are and how to get back to where you were is a vital part of being a successful searcher.
If you are ever lost, these tips can help save your hide!
Using a map and compass together is the best way to find your way. If you know where you want to go, put on your sneakers and shoes and let’s go!
When hunting, make sure you have enough supplies for yourself and for at least one quick trip out. You never know if something may happen or if you will need help quickly!
Bullet pointed areas on the map should be labeled as obstacles such as rivers or unfamiliar terrain that might cause difficulty finding your way back. Those are important to account for in case of an emergency.
Compass
A compass is an important piece of Search and Rescue gear. It allows you to find your way back to a place or someone else when you get stuck, even in the dark.
When searching, a compass can be the difference between finding something and refusing to believe you because it was leading you in the wrong direction.
Luckily, the compass we use at Nightfall is quality sturdy steel so it does not break too easily. Some models are coated so that they are easier to see in dark conditions, but a true black one will stand out better.
The one thing that must be done on a new piece of Search and Rescue gear is to make sure it is compatible with its holster.
Flashlight
A small flashlight can be handy for finding your way in the dark. There are many brands and styles of flashlights, so it is notMandatory to purchase a specific brand.
Many companies now make their own flashlights as they no longer run out of battery power. This is a good thing! 😀
You can pick one with a rechargeable or regular battery, depending on which part of the night you need reliable light. Some models even have a chargeable LED light that can be turned on and off.
A good rule to remember is to always carry a small, reliable flashlight wherever you go.
Survival kit
Having a survival kit will help you stay alive during an emergency. Many of the items are for long term use and may not have a quick use, but them being able to take them will help you out.
Some of the items can be for sale-able, some can not. That is up to your leader to decide if they approve of those items. Once you get your leaders OK, go buy some of these things!
Having a good survival kit will include a few extra sets of clothes, water purifying tablets, a charge for a cell phone or charger, insect repellant, books and/or re-write-up notes, pen and paper (for writing down what you say), etc.
First-aid kit
Having a first-aid kit will save you a lot of time when hurt or injured. Though it may not be the first thing you think of when referring to a gear list, it is one of the more important items you have during an emergency.
Most first-aid kits contain bandages, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, a sucralose mix for snacks, and other nonperishable items. This kit will hold its value for about two weeks without much change in routine activities so do not stress about having the next supply after this one runs out.
During emergencies, it is usually best to have at least a small First-Aid Squeeze Box nearby so that you can quickly access the needed supplies. You can also use these boxes to store commonly used medicines like Advil or Tylenol that you would need to have on hand.
The main reason to pack your own first-aid kit is that the company’s products are usually less than $10 apart from what the package says offers (i.e., bandages and disinfectant tablets).
Fire starters
Making fire is an essential part of outdoor survival. There are many ways to create a fire, but the primary factor is heat! A fire will help you stay warm and prepare for cooking your next meal.
Some products can make a real heat source such as burning sticks or coal in a fireplace. Others can be used to start a fire such as charcoal or paper kburning stalks. Both of these methods require special equipment so do not rely on either alone to keep you warm.
Keeping a fuel source available is another way to have fire capability. Some people use woods they have around the house or land they live on that has never burned. Other things likeLavender, Fir trees, and some kinds of grass can be prepared and stored.
Spare batteries
Having a full set of batteries will save you a lot of time when power outages or short battery life occurs. There are many ways to charge them, so you will not be forced to buy new ones every year.
This includes having an external battery charger, taking advantage of allen’s connectors on computer power supplies, and buying newer style rechargeable batteries.