Survival Gear List



In the event that you will be called out on a search, you need to have the proper survival gear. Having your bag packed beforehand will save you time, and minimize the chance of forgetting to pack an item.

The following list is the SAR Tech II -24 Hour Survival Gear List. (italicized items are my recommendations, not NASAR's)


Personal First Aid and Survival Kit

  • Acetaminophen or aspirin tablets - 4
  • Antacid tablets - 4
  • Antiseptic ointment - 1
  • Bandaids, various sizes - 6
  • Candle, long burning -1
  • Cotton swabs, non-sterile - 2
  • Duct tape, 5-10 feet
  • Leaf bag, large - 1
  • Matches, in waterproof container - 8
  • Plastic bag, zip lock, qt. size (for kit) - 1
  • Quarters for phone call - 2
  • Razor blade, single edge safety type - 1
  • Roller gauze bandage - 1
  • Safety pins, large - 2
  • Splinter forceps, tweezers - 1
  • Space type blanket or space type sleeping bag - 1
  • Towelette, clean (moist or washcloth) - 1
  • Whistle - 1

    Personal SAR Equipment

  • Bags, various sizes, zip locked - 4
  • Bandana or handkerchief - 1
  • Cap or other head gear - 1
  • Carabiners, locking - 2
  • Clothes bag, waterproof - 1
  • Clothing adequate for climate (on person) - 1
  • Clothing, extra set, suitable for climate - 1
  • Compass, orienteering (or mirror sighting) - 1
  • Flagging Tape, roll (orange recommended) - 1
  • Flashlight or lantern - 1
  • Flashlight bulb, extra - 1
  • Flashlight batteries, extra -1
  • Footwear, sturdy, adequate for climate - 1
  • Gloves, durable, even in summer (leather) - 1
  • Goggles or eye protection, clear - 1
  • Insect repellent - 1
  • Knife, multipurpose (folding pocket type) - 1
  • Lip balm with sunscreen - 1
  • Measuring device, 18 in. minimum - 1
  • Metal cup or pot - 1
  • Mirror, small (2"x3" to 4"x6") - 1
  • Nylon twine or small rope, 50 feet - 1
  • Pack, 1800 cubic inch (minimum) - 1
  • Pad and pencil - 1
  • Pussik slings, (suitable for 9mm to 11mm rope) 3 ft. when tied - 2
  • Rainwear, durable (orange preferred) - 1
  • SAR Personal Identification - 1
  • Shelter Material, 8'x10' plastic or coated nylon - 1
  • Scissors, multi-purpose (heavy duty) - 1
  • Socks, extra pair - 1
  • Sunscreen lotion - 1
  • Tissue paper or baby wipes (partial roll) - 1
  • Tracking stick, minimum 42" long - 1
  • Watch - 1
  • Water containers, at least liter/quart size - 2
  • Webbing, 1" tubular, length suitable for harness (20 feet preferred) - 1
  • Wire, 5-10 feet, woven steel (solid 14 gauge is acceptable) - 1
  • Wire ties, plastic self locking - 8





    Personal Additions/Recommendations - NOT Required of SAR Tech II

  • Food (Powerbars, granola bars, etc.)
  • Vest or hat, blaze orange
  • Flagging Tape, pink (for clues)
  • Extra Flashlight
  • Red LED Strobe Light
  • Cyalume light sticks (Red, Orange, and Blue)
  • Make all battery operated items "AA"
  • Socks (carry 2 extra pair)
  • Leatherman tool as your multipurpose knife
  • Extra Compass (in case one gets broken or lost)
  • GPS unit
  • Water purification tablets
Survival gear for your dog
**Don't Forget to add your dog's gear also! Some suggestions are:
  • Dog Food (enough for 2 days)
  • Extra Water for your K9
  • A first Aid kit for your dog
  • A bell for his vest (if you use one)
  • K9 Search Vest
  • Lights for your dog's vest



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