MASAR Full Equipment List
The following is a list of the minimum equipment which MASAR recommends ground searchers have with them when responding to a search and/or rescue call. Equivalent items or combinations are acceptable, as noted. The list may be expanded to suit personal tastes, but the basic equipment normally carried while searching should not impair maneuverability or endurance. Each searcher should be prepared to carry their equipment in winter conditions in rough terrain for up to 12 hours in the field (and 24 hours in a survival situation).
Basic equipment may be carried in a fanny pack or small day pack that can be stuffed inside the main pack when necessary.
An additional supply of extra clothing, etc., that can be left at the search base is strongly recommended for all response situations.
NOTE: This list assumes that the searcher will be properly dressed for the season, as well as the prevailing and anticipated conditions.
Year-Round Equipment Item Description:
__Ready Pack Small, light-weight pack, vest with storage pockets, or fanny pack
__Compass: Liquid-filled with sighting mirror, plus spare.
Spare may be GPS unit; if so, bring spare batteries for it
__Time keeper: Watch or equivalent International
__Orange Vest: Required item
__Light: Headlamp, plus a second light source.
__Both to have extra batteries and spare bulb, if the latter is replaceable
__Lightstick: Cyalume or equal
__Whistle: Plastic recommended
__Eye protection:
Sunglasses with high UV protection, and goggles (the latter for protection from airborne debris)
__Hand protection: Work gloves with padded palms for litter carrying
__Ear protection: 2 sets of disposable foam ear plugs or equal
__Lip protection: Lip balm or equivalent (optional, but recommended)
__Skin protection: Sunscreen (optional, but recommended)
__Survival Knife: Folding knife with multiple tools (locking blade recommended)
__Fire Starter: Two types; at least one must be waterproof
__Candle: High temperature type that will not melt in pack
__Cord: 20 feet of parachute cord
__Emergency shelter: Lightweight plastic tarp or bivy bag
__Space blanket Small mirror: Compass mirror is acceptable
__Flagging tape: One roll of a high-visibility color
__Note paper: Note cards or notebook, preferably waterproof
__Writing tools: Pencil; indelible marker for writing on flagging
__Water: Minimum 2 quarts
__Food: Non-perishable food for two meals, and high-energy snack food
__Medications: Three day supply of any personal medication
__Insect repellent: Avoid oil-based types if working with rescue ropes and related equipment (optional)
First aid kit to include:
__2 triangular bandages
__1 sheet moleskin adhesive or equal
__8 Band-Aids
__1 multi-trauma dressing
__1 roll 1″ adhesive tape
__4 large safety pins 1 elastic bandage (Ace or equal)
__8 – 4″ x 4″ gauze pads
__1 package aspirin or equal
__CPR pocket mask
__Gloves for body substance isolation
__Toilet paper
Additional clothing as needed for local conditions:
__Hat
__Rain gear
__Wind protection
__Extra insulating clothing layer(s)
__Extra foot insulation layer
__Extra hand insulation layer
Equipment Added in Winter Item Description:
__Hand protection: Extra mittens or gloves
__Face protection: Balaclava or ski mask Socks:
__Second pair of socks
__Boot liners as needed
__Snowshoes, cross-country skis, or creepers as needed.
Additional Equipment (to be carried as needed) Item Description
__Sleeping bag: Adequate for anticipated weather and temperatures
__Insulated sleeping pad
__Food: Replacement of pack food according to personal preference. Quantities sufficient to sustain for 48 hours
__Mess kit
__Pack stove and extra fuel: 1 per team is adequate
__Toilet articles: Towel, soap, toothbrush, etc.
Extra clothes:
__Complete set, including boots