Many searches involve day searching, the items listed for day use should be packed into the day pack or set aside while packing at home, to be ready for a quick departure on arrival at search base.
When going out on a day search (planning to be back at base that night), take the items listed in the table. Items mandatory unless stated otherwise.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Large day pack (30-40 litres) or weekend size pack | A normal weekend size pack is recommended. Items not taken into the field can be stored at base in the storage bag. |
| Weatherproof clothing | GoreTex® or equivalent material hooded jacket and over-trousers. |
| First aid kit & medication | Refer to First Aid |
| Sunscreen, safety glasses, hat | |
| Cord | |
| Fire lighting items | |
| Toilet paper, one roll | For marking a search boundary |
| Large plastic bags | |
| Food, scroggin | For personal needs. Include more than normal to cater for the casualty and in case of an unplanned overnight out. For example, extra noodles, packet soups. fruit etc. |
| Water | Two litres. Fill up before leaving home. |
| Notepad & pen | Inside a plastic bag |
| Torch, spare battery | |
| Warm clothes | Be prepared for an unplanned night out. Take extra for the rescued person. |
| Compass and whistle | |
| Map | A photocopy of the search area will usually be issued at base. Personal maps of the area brought from home, if available, should also be taken. |
| Scrub gloves | |
| Sleeping mat, closed cell foam | For casualty management and personal use |
| Long pants | Shorts are NOT suitable for searching |
| Gaiters | |
| Eating utensils | Optional. For feeding the rescued person and personal use, particularly if having to bivvy out and eat emergency rations. |
BSAR vests and radios are issued to members on arrival at search base.
Last Updated on February 17, 2021