Search equipment

The following articles about items of equipment, have been prepared at different times for various purposes. Some describe items provided by BSAR, others describe personal equipment. For the definitive instruction on the items of equipment that members are expected to bring into the field, see Manual, Chapter 7, Equipment and Food .

Safety clothing (high vis) is issued to members

Avalanche transceivers are used during snow searches.

Batteries - performance tests of various battery types in cold conditions.

Battery packs can provide a backup power source for mobile phones

Bothy shelters are very simple rectangular tents with no poles or floor.

GPS units are used as navigation aids in the field.

Heavy duty pants are good to have when searching in the bush.

Packs suitable for searches

Setopress bandages can be used to treat snakebite and sprains

Steep snow and ice equipment is used for specialist rescues in alpine terrain.

Torches are essential equipment.

UHF CB Radios are used for field communications in addition to Police VHF radios. 

 

Personal equipment

The following equipment is not required for searches but could be useful for personal and club trips.

Mobile phones can provide communications in remote areas

Personal Locator Beacons are recommended for parties visiting remote areas.

SPOT tracking devices can provide status and emergency messages via a satellite network.  

Satellite phones can provide voice, email and SMS communicaiton via their satellite network.