The following is a list of required equipment, compiled by the team leaders of NSSAR, which meets and exceeds the minimum requirements of MASAR for ground search personell called out for a search and/or rescue operations. This list may be expanded upon to suit personal taste and preference, however, the basic requirements must be met, and the addition of articles must not impair the searchers maneuverability and/or endurance.

NOTE: This list assumes the searcher is leaving the muster area dresses appropriately for the current and anticipated weather conditions excluding the articles in the pack.

 

Basic Year Round Equipment

WORKING EQUIPMENT..
CompassLiquid filled at minimum, with sighting mirror recommended
Watch..
Tape MeasureSmall 36" tape acceptable, 72" recommended.
LightFlashlight or head lamp with extra bulb and batteries. A second flashlight it recommended for backup. Mini mag AA an excellent choice for prtability, durability and adaptability.
LightstickLow intensity Cyalume or equal.
WhistleFox 40 or equivilent for pitch and range.
Eye ProtectionSnglasses or goggles with shatterproof lenses, either wrap-around or with side shields, 97% UV protection.
Hand ProtectionLeather or Leather-palmed, with with woll or polypropylene inserts recommended.
Ear protection4 sets of disposable foam ear plugs or equal.
Lip protectionLip balm or equivilent.
Skin ProtectionSunscreen suitable for conditions.
SURVIVAL..
Knife4" or larger lock-blade or sheath type. A good jack-knife in addition is strongly recommended.
MatchesScratch anywhere type prefered, in waterproof case.
BakupMetal match with tinder or other alternate means of fire starting.
CandleHigh temperature type that will not melt in pack.
Cord20 feet of parachute cord (preferably genuine military surplus)
Emergency shelterTube tent, lightweight plastic tarp or equal.
Space Blanket..
Small MirrorSteel or unbreakable plastic.
FoodNON-PERISHABLE food for two meals, plus a good supply of high-energy snack food. Food that does not require cooking is HIGHLY-RECOMMENDED.Military Surplus MRE's ARE EXCELLENT choices.
MedicationsAt least a three day supplu of any prescribtion medications taken regularly or in emergency situations. Sting kits, and any allergy remedies.
Bug RepellantAvoid oil based repellents if working with rope rescues and equipment.
CanteenMinimun capacity 1 quart packed in pack or suspeneds ON the pack. Minimum 1 quart of water, sports drinks such as Gatorade high in minerals are an excellent addition.
Note Paper12 3"x5" notecards or note pad.
Writing toolsMechanical lead pencil or 2 lead pencils, ink pen, and a PERMINENT thin felt tip marker.
Personal meal kitMetal cup and spoon at minimum.
Extra clothingSocks, sweater or shirt, pants. (one change of clothing)
ToiletriesTowel, soap, toothbrush, etc.
Hatchet or Pack Saw.
Folding shovel.
Rain Gear..
Wind shell..
First Aid Kit...................Minimum Requirements
2 triangular bandages1 moleskin adhesive
8 bandaids1 battledressing or equal
1 roll 1" adhesive tape1 bottle antiseptic
4 large safety pins1 ace bandage
8 4" X 4" gauze pads1 package asperin or equal

ADDITIONAL WINTER EQUIPMENT

Hand ProtectionExtra mittens or gloves. Large mittens fitting over gloves are reommended
Face ProtectionMuff, balaclave, or ski mask.
Foot protectionSecond pair of socks and wool socks, extra boot felts or liners.
Boot Liners6 bread bags or small plastic bags.
Snow shoes and/or cross country skis as needed.
Extra pair of insulated boots strongly recommended;
especially where liners cannot be removed from insulated boot.

ADDITIONAL 24-HOUR EQUIPMENT

ADD THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WHERE A 24 HOUR ASSIGNMENT IS ANTICIPATED
Sleeping bag or bed-roll adequate for tempuratures expected.
Ensolite or equivilent cushion/barrier.
Pack stove: 1 per team of 4.

ADDITIONAL 48-HOUR EQUIPMENT

ADD THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WHERE A 48 HOUR ASSIGNMENT IS ANTICIPATED
3 full meals and an addequate supply of high energy snack foods.
Extra Water and powdered drink mix.(HIgh mineral)
Extra stove fuel.
Extra batteries.