| When search and rescue is needed it is often the | | | | found. |
| first responders who make the biggest impact. | | | | Search and rescue supplies and tools can make a |
| They are the hottest on the trail, so to speak, | | | | big difference in whether it is a successful |
| and having the right search and rescue supplies | | | | operation or not. Consider the conditions you are |
| and tools can make all the difference in their | | | | going into and how long the person you are |
| endeavors. Community Emergency Response | | | | searching for may have been missing and |
| Team (or CERT) members are often the first | | | | stranded. Rain ponchos for the CERT members |
| people out in the field to begin the search and | | | | and the people or person you are searching for |
| rescue. These CERT members know the terrain | | | | are helpful. Solar blankets and sleeping bags in the |
| for which they are trained very well and should | | | | event of a temperature drop or overnight stay |
| embark on their search and rescue operation | | | | are a good idea. In the unfortunate event that |
| properly supplied. | | | | you find the person you are searching for and |
| Reflective vests are a helpful part of the search | | | | they have died, a body bag will aid you in |
| and rescue supplies and tools. They are easily | | | | transporting them back to civilization. You may |
| seen from a distance due to color and the | | | | find that your search and rescue mission goes |
| reflective quality of the tape, trim and fabric. | | | | from day to night. Flashlights are essential to your |
| Other CERT members can easily locate each | | | | search and rescue supplies and tools. You can also |
| other. This vest is so highly visible that it is | | | | purchase a high powered rechargeable spotlight |
| possible that the person being searched for will | | | | which is an amazing source of light for your |
| see the bright color and realize help is on its way. | | | | rescue operation. Don't forget to take a first aid |
| Other tools and supplies essential to a search and | | | | or trauma kit on your search and rescue mission. |
| rescue operation include solar radios, flashlights and | | | | In conclusion you will most likely be amazed at the |
| bullhorns. In fact, a bullhorn or megaphone that | | | | tools you may already have like crow bars, hand |
| includes a siren is a great addition to any search | | | | tools, sled hammers, shovels, flashlights and the |
| and rescue operation as it enables the user to get | | | | like that you can use in an emergency situation. |
| a loud sound out and notify other rescuers when | | | | Emergency planning and preparedness really is |
| help is needed or the object of the search is | | | | everyones job! |