We are also having a CTF (chew the fat) at Elena Gallegos Park, Friday, October 9th at 6:00 p.m. This is your opportunity to express your opinions about team certification standard.

Don't forget there are only three months left to certify. Members not certified will not be eligible for missions.

Tip: Cut toe nails before going on a search. It will save some pain and a bloody sock.

See you out there.

Boots and Blisters

From Trailhead: Follow the South Crest Trail until you reach the waterfall. Cross the stream and wind up to the top of the waterfall. Continue on switchbacks, passing the Lower Faulty Trail on your right. After about 1 1/2 miles from the start you will reach a fork. The South Crest Trail goes off to the left. Continue right for a few yards to another fork. The unmarked trail to the left is the CCC Trail. Upper Faulty is on the right. Take the left. CCC is steep and crosses a few rocky areas where you need to look for rock cairns. In about 2 miles CCC reaches the South Crest Trail along the crest. Continue to the right when you reach the Crest Trail. At the back of a large meadow to the left there is a trail to the top of South Peak. Return via CCC or, for a longer hike with views of Albuquerque and Tijeras, and some springs, take the South Crest Trail all the way back to Canyon Estates.

Business as Usual

by Mary Berry

I thought I'd give everyone an update on what I've been doing since taking on the job a few months ago. There really isn't an awful lot to say but that I've had to get acquainted with how things are done with the team, and had to get "on board." I think I've had the usual early-on frustrations with any job, especially when you start in mid-stride. Mostly what I've been doing is keeping things status quo as much as possible, including writing minutes of the meetings, and keeping track of attendance. Also, I have organized the files in two new file boxes, one for the current year's papers, and one for previous year's. It seemed the least confusing to me.

I would like to remind everyone on the team that it is really impossible to keep track of details without help. In my case, I cannot archive papers that I do not know need archiving. Also, there are a lot of papers that I know need to be in the archives. However, I do not like to, nor want to, hunt them down. If anyone has papers they know (or think) should be archived, please see to it that you get them to me!

Basically, of course, it all boils down to communicating. Along that line, I would like anyone who reads the minutes of the meetings on the web to please let me know if there are any corrections to be made. We do not "read and approve" the minutes of the meeting, and I have very little feedback. Please let me know! (Please read the minutes!)

Gearing Up

by Mike Dugger

I have completed a detailed inventory of our 800 MHz radios, which were loaned to the state of New Mexico for use in SAR. Cibola is responsible for 55 of these radios. Members are assigned one of these radios after their orientation, as a means of communication while on a mission. These have been very valuable for communication between vehicles while traveling to a mission, and between teams in the field when trying to keep 155.160 MHz clear of unnecessary traffic. They have not, however, seen widespread use as a means of communication between teams in the field and base camp.

There are 5 radios we found to be bad after using them for a while. In addition, We have 7 radios still checked out to members who have left the team, which I am trying to get back. I don't anticipate any problems in most cases. There is one former member who had two radios assigned to him, and lost them both while using them for a non-SAR function. This is clearly unacceptable. These radios were lent to us for use on missions and SAR-related training events. Using these for any sort of personal activity constitutes an abuse of this privilege. DON'T DO IT!

I would also like to encourage our members to obtain other forms of radio communication as soon as possible. A hand-held radio is a big investment, and may take time to save for, but it is critical. We simply can't rely on being able to talk to base camp on our 800 MHz radios. Even if ICS began using these as a means of communication, the future use of these radios is uncertain. I have heard rumors that the frequencies used by these radios will soon be used in law enforcement, and we may no longer be able to use them. Many members have hand-held radios capable of 155.160 MHz, and some are licensed amateur radio operators. The latter option is the most flexible since, in addition to using 155.160 MHz while on a mission, one may use scores of repeaters throughout the state. This capability is very useful in remote mountain areas where a repeater may be more accessible than a base camp radio. We are considering holding another team class to prepare people for the amateur radio licensing exam, and I encourage everyone without a license to participate.

Finally, if you are not using your 800 MHz radio, you may turn it in to me so that you are no longer responsible for it. Since they are rarely used on missions, I would like to see our team eventually return them all to the state. There are other frequencies that can be used for communication while on the way to a mission, or for communication between teams in the field.

Mini Lesson: The SAR Pack

by David Dixon

Your search and rescue pack is your life support system. What it contains, how it fits, and how much it weighs are all important pack factors. Consider also convenience, efficiency and necessity when choosing and equipping your pack. The following covers various aspects of the SAR pack and is based on the requirement of equipment and clothing necessary for 12 hours in the field. And, even though this may rarely be the case, the time period may include staying and possibly sleeping overnight. If you are serious about search and rescue (as all of us are), this must also be a consideration. I conclude with some helpful tips gathered over the years.

I stress that these are my thoughts relative to many backpacking and outdoor experiences and a year and a half of SAR under my padded belt. Hopefully you know much of what is here but can otherwise glean some knowledge from this overview.

Choosing a Pack

Make sure your pack fits well and is padded in the waist, back and shoulders. Good packs have torso length and shoulder strap adjustments. Try it on loaded with weight before you buy. All of us have some experience with a pack. When buying a new one consider what has worked for you and what you want in a pack. Remember, it is your most important item in terms of comfort so don't buy a cheap one.

A pack with a volume of 2000 to 4000 cu. in. will work best. The pack I carry most of the time has 2900 which may be large for some and too small for a few who really like to carry a lot. I have a larger internal that is 5500 cu. in.but weighs more and is really too large except for winter overnights or carrying other equipment. A pack weight of 25-30 pounds is comfortably possible for most of us. Carry 10 or 20 lbs. more and it becomes harder to move well during searches and you'll be more physically stressed (unless you're in great shape). If you haven't done any backpacking or carried 45 or more lbs. on a search you should do so on some short hikes before buying a big pack and loading it up. Borrow a larger pack from someone before buying one and realizing you really can't or don't want to ever carry 50 lbs. A pack loaded with lots of gear for any situation does no good if you can't carry it very far. Most sources advise carrying no more than 30% of your weight and that is relative to longer excursions with lots of equipment. Knowing you can carry more sometimes could be helpful, though. Having a larger pack available may be a benefit if a subject has been found and large or heavy gear is requested.

Seasonal Packs

• Moderate
  Moderate is from April to September. Daytime temperatures may be hot or cool and nights range from warm to cold but above freezing at higher elevations. Rain is always a consideration. Freak snow may be encountered in early spring. Your Moderate Pack would include all essentials plus clothes. This would be a non-cotton inner top and bottom. (Throw in a few T-shirts in warm weather). The middle layer is an insulating top such as fleece, polypro or wool and bottoms of BDUs or fleece. Outer layer is waterproof/breathable rain gear top and bottom. You could include a light down jacket or vest for maximum protection if you get cold even in moderate temperatures. Also have a hat and light gloves.
• Winter
  This is approximately October to March. Winter conditions expected anytime including cold days and below freezing nights. Snow may be falling or on the ground. Remember that you can hike during a winter day some places in New Mexico wearing spring clothing. During the night, though, the temperature will drop while you probably are not on the move, and conditions and necessary clothing dramatically change. Clothing for cold includes all moderate items above plus another first layer preferably heavy or expedition weight, a heavier middle layer and a stocking cap and warm gloves. The down jacket is also now a necessity.

Pack Contents

List 1: Essential Gear

a quality headlamp plus a second light source	pack cover
preferably another headlamp	ruler or straight edge
batteries for both light sources for 12 hours	spare bulbs
a quality orienteering compass plus a decent second	trail tape
whistle	gaiters
signaling mirror	sunscreen
rain gear (breathable top and bottom is best) or poncho	toilet paper (in ziploc of course)
knife or multi-tool	general fixit kit (see Tips section)
first aid kit	sunglasses
matches/fire starter/candle	garbage bags
map	bandana
small rope	hat
watch	binocular or monocular
leather gloves	chapstick
tarp or space blanket	personal items: toiletries, medications, glasses
pencil/small notebook	water for 12 hours, usually 3 liters and water purification tablets
GPS (including manual)	food for 12 hours

Food Ideas MREs work well, especially when Cibola will buy some for you. Some other suggestions if you're not into those are jerky, dried fruit, nuts, tortillas, peanut butter, cheese, packaged sausage, power bars, hard candy, canned chicken or tuna, and if you have a stove, noodle mixes, instant rice, many hot possibilities.

List 2: Other recommended gear
These are seasonal or other items available to take in the field when necessary or to have when returning. Prioritize items you still need to purchase (GPS, climbing helmet, radio) over what you'll rarely use (bivy, water purifier).

additional food and water	water purifier
radio, spare battery	small plastic trowel
sleeping pad: foam, thermarest	crampons
sleeping bag: light, heavy	small stove
bivy or small tent	cook kit
small plastic trowel	climbing helmet
signal flares	carabiners
strobe light	climbing harness
small saw (for clearing trail)	snowshoes
spare pair of shoes	warm food: soups, coffee (if a stove is available)
additional maps

List 3: Clothing. Listed by season and layer, and including what is worn.

Moderate	Winter
Inner: Non-cotton top and bottom. T-shirts in summer	Inner: Non-cotton top and bottom preferably heavy weight plus an additional light top.
Middle: Insulating top of fleece, polypro or wool. Long sleeve cotton shirt.	Middle: Insulating top of fleece, polypro or wool.
Outer: Rain gear, additional layer of fleece or down if needed for cold temperatures.	Outer: Rain gear, additional layer of heavy fleece or wool or, preferably, a down jacket.
Miscellaneous: 2 pair of inner and outer socks, leather gloves, light insulating gloves, brimmed hat, belt.	Miscellaneous: 2 pair of inner and outer socks, leather gloves, heavy insulating gloves,brimmed hat, stocking hat, belt.

Boots

Overnight Packs

• Moderate
  The minimum under you should be a tarp or space blanket, with a light pad or thermarest being even better. It would be best to include a sleeping bag with your pad. In rainy conditions a tent or bivy would keep you comfortable. (There are also specialized space blankets or plastic tubes that function as tents.) Whatever you use should be waterproof and able to protect you from runoff and leaks. Remember, though, that weight goes up as things get more comfortable. You have to carry your comfort. A waterproof tarp under and over you, plus the lightest pad and all or most of your clothing should allow you a decent night's sleep in moderate temperatures, especially if you are exhausted. Use your pack or stuff a bag for a pillow and don't wear sweat-soaked clothes to bed. Remember that sufficient clothing for the season's nighttime temperatures is standard for search and rescue.
• Cold
  For temperatures at or below freezing and possibly snow on the ground, you need a pad and a warm sleeping bag. A bivy is recommended for a good night's sleep, although without rain that isn't as much of a necessity. A good pad, bag and bivy is heavy . And, a stove and warm food would be great to have on a cold night. Obviously, a winter overnight makes weight more of a consideration.

Loading and Wearing your Pack

Helpful Additions

Water may be your most important provision, and the state requirement of 2 quarts is probably not enough for 12 hours of walking. Hydrating while on the go is very efficient. A small water bottle holder on your pack or belt works well, or try the new collapsible water bottles with a hose and bite valve. Attach the hose to the top of your pack and you can search and suck! You may find yourself going through your water faster, but you will be more likely to stay well hydrated -- sort of a positive problem. So if you can carry a little more weight, water should be your first consideration. Plan on taking at least 3 quarts, and don't forget purification tablets or a water purifier.(although each requires a water source to filter).

Organizing Your Stuff

Pack and Track Tips

1. Pack everything possible into ziploc bags. They're waterproof, strong (use freezer bags) and stay together even if stuffed. Gear is visible and easier to find and pack.
2. Even with ziplocs it won't take long to realize you also need a pack cover for added protection in heavy rain. A garbage bag works but a cover designed for your size pack is quicker and easier.
3. Always wear something orange and visible during a search. A hat or shirt is the obvious but you could also bring a light, cheap orange hunter's vest to put on over your top. Your ability to be seen is crucial and wearing natural colors is, well, unnatural for us.
4. When was the last time you replenished your first aid kit? Think about adding any of the following: moleskin, snake bite kit, eye care kit, second skin, razor blades, chapstick, small soap, sanitary napkins (make great absorbent bandages).
5. If you don't already, think about carrying a small pair of binoculars or even lighter monocular. Weight is always a factor but they could be valuable during a search.
6. Speaking of carrying too much, take time to go through everything in your pack and toss some items you have never used, or replace with something lighter or smaller. If you want further help in reducing your pack weight check out www.backpacking.net on the web.
7. If you wear reading glasses make sure you always carry a pair (or 2). Not being able to read maps or your GPS would be a problem.
8. If you want or need to take a stove, go for the lighter models with a small gas mix canister. This is the lightest option when you only need a day of use. Check Coleman and Gaz, they both make great models that boil fast.
9. Decent climbing helmets are not expensive and could save your life. They should always be worn when working around heights. When buying used climbing equipment make sure you know its previous use and inspect it well.
10. Always keep a few bandanas stuffed into your pack. They are great for wiping away sweat, cooling off and lots more. Choose a bright color and it can be used for marking or signaling.
11. If you don't have breathable rain gear at some point you'll find yourself soaked inside as well as out. Gore-tex is considered the best but there are many decent clones on the market now that work well and cost less. Check Cabela's or other outdoor sources for sets as cheap as $100. If you're used to a clammy plastic poncho you'll be amazed at the difference.
12. Always carry an extra first-layer shirt. T-shirts in the heat and polypro in the winter will both get sweat-soaked after a good hike and changing into a dry one will help prevent hypothermia, as well as feel better. In the winter, hike in your lighter top and put on the heavy one when you stop. Always change out of a sweaty top when the sun goes down, even in the summer.
13. A small piece of thin, closed-cell foam could provide just enough comfort and insulation for a decent night's sleep. A rectangle as small as 15"x30" weighs just a few ounces and pads the important upper body from hips to shoulders. A small square also works great as a butt protector while sitting.
14. Remember to give a quick look around before leaving your break spot, especially if you took your pack off and opened it. You don't want to go back for something left behind, and you probably wouldn't find it anyway. This is especially true at night.
15. Always carry an extra compass. It is one of your most valuable essentials.
16. Whistles also are necessary, cheap and light. Carry 2.
17. Look back periodically especially when you are traveling off trail. It will help familiarize you to the terrain in all directions and keep you on track if you come back the same way.
18. On a night search remember to bring items you'll need if you're out until morning: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, T-shirt, etc.
19. Dryer lint makes great fire tinder. A handful stuffed into a film canister weighs nothing.
20. No matter how many times you go through and organize your pack, do you find yourself at base camp ready to go in the field and realize you forgot extra water or that new pair of gloves? Keep a list of items that you want to take always handy so that before you drive away you can quickly go through it and make sure you have everything. Keep another list of To Do and To Buy.
21. Use the folded edge of a map as a straight edge to draw a straight line.
22. Put together a general fixit kit of rubber bands, few meters of duct tape, some strong wire, safety pins, razor blade, needle and fishing line, aluminum foil, etc.
23. Gaiters may be hot, especially in summer, but they keep nature out of your boots and protect your legs from cactus and other irritables.
24. Keep a grease pencil with your note pad. They write on anything and always work.
25. Make sure you have at least 4 extra batteries in addition to other minimum battery needs. You might be a light saver to a battery-less searcher.
26. Carry a small sack or pouch that can hold all the extra small stuff: lighter, candle, extra whistle and mirror, batteries, fixit kit, etc.
27. Don't forget to throw in some straps of various lengths to tie things onto your pack.
28. Keep a pair of tennis or other shoes in your duffel bag to change into after a search. Your feet will appreciate the comfort on the ride home.

Other topics we've discussed having articles written about are:

   Wild food for wilderness survival
   Seasonal weather, altitude effects, and clothing choices
   Gear reviews
   Snakes and snakebites
   Insects and insect bites
   Assorted self-help first aid techniques
 

We've already got the authors lined up for October and November, and will be filling in the table for December and January very soon. If you have interest in writing on any of the other topics, let us know and we'll ask you to do it for a specific issue of the newsletter. We'll try to give you a couple of months lead time on it so we don't have to send out our Enforcer, "Sarge," to collect the finished product the day it's due.

Web News

by Tom Russo

Most of the changes in the website have been invisible this month; the software underlying all of the database functions has been subtly changing for a few reasons, most notably because the old software didn't always take care of dates in a Y2K compliant manner. But there are a few visible changes in the database access pages. The Member Database now keeps track of who is a prospective member, and these people appear with a "(P)" before their names in the callout list. If you're a phone tree top, or have another reason to call a member with a "(P)" before his or her name for a mission, please remember that that person is required to attend missions with an active member, and try to help them hook up with such a member if they need it. Another change is in the "New Mission Logs Database," where it is now possible to keep track of who attended what mission at the same time that a mission log is generated. This data can be used in a variety of reports that I haven't written yet, but there is one such report: a table of mission attendance over the last 6 months.

I'm also planning to implement a training log database along the same lines as the mission log database. In this way the Membership officer will be able to keep on top of the 2-training-per-6-month requirements for mission status. In the same vein, I'm planning a certification database to help the MO and TO (and of course the Secretary) keep those records in an easily retrieved, quickly summarized format. This stuff takes time and effort, of course, and might not be ready to be deployed before the end of the year.

NMESC Notes

by Nancy O'Neill

ESCAPE '99 will be held at New Mexico Tech in Socorro, NM, on 21-23 May. The people down there have gone to great lengths to woo us to their humble dwelling. I really think everyone will like this site, from the air-conditioned classrooms to the animal-friendly environment. So, mark your calendars now for this event. (I am now looking for instructors, so if you are an "expert" in an area then let me know!)

Helicopter Training: We still do not have a firm date on this, the "fuzzy" date for this event is "sometime in November"; Mickey is coordinating this training.

Winter Skills Training: We are not holding a winter skills training this year due to the lack of interest last year. We are planning to hold this training every other year, unless the membership wants it otherwise.

Secretary of NMESC: We will be saying "goodbye" to Brian Holcomb November 1st. Brian is moving back to Oregon. He took over as secretary, very graciously, I might add, when the slot became vacant right after ESCAPE '98. We in the SAR community will miss him, but we wish him well in Oregon.

Thank you to everyone who attended the "Mock-Search-That-Wasn't-a-Mock-Search." The unofficial quote of the number of people in the field is 106. More information on that when it becomes solid facts.

Tips for Parents in the Outdoors

by Susan Corban

As a parent, your best strategy to protect your child in the wilds is to set a good example. The clothes you wear, your planning and preparation, awareness of your environment, safety precautions, and respect for limits (yours and others'), all will demonstrate appropriate choices to your child. It is also important to discuss behaviors with your child and then practice to reinforce their knowledge. Your child will gain confidence, be better prepared for an emergency, and can try some problem-solving in a safe environment.

RULES IN THE OUTDOORS

Define Boundaries

Parents tend to tell their kids "don't go too far." While the intent is clear, the message isn't functional. Defining boundaries for children with concrete landmarks will work better. Try telling children that it's ok to explore between "that big rock, this tree, and the edge of the parking lot," or similar clearly identifiable objects. Take a walk with the child along the boundary of the approved area to make the area "real." This strategy works well for camping and picnics where your attention may be away from the children periodically. Also, be sure to clarify who's watching the kids at any given time.

Stay With Others

Teach children to be aware of where they are in relation to others. Set the rule that children must stay with the group, not wander off or run ahead. They should know to stay where they can always see someone else, an adult specifically. And remember to model this behavior yourself, especially when children are present.

Stay on the Trail

Hiking should always be ON the trail for children. While hiking, children should hike between two adults, never up ahead and never at the end of a group. If the children run up ahead they might miss a turn in the trail and end up in the wrong place while those behind them assume they're still just up ahead.

GEAR TO PACK

Clothing isn't always purchased with the wilderness in mind. When you buy children's jackets, buy brightly colored jackets with hoods and many pockets. Children should always have a jacket packed, even in summer. When it rains, a child falls in a stream, or after nightfall, children will get cold. Hypothermia (lowered body temperature) occurs easily in the summer. It's easy to forget that the mountains are cooler when the city is hot. A jacket can easily be belted around a child or stuffed into a fanny pack or backpack. Again, model this behavior yourself.

Emergency Pack

Every child should carry their own emergency pack. A small pouch or plastic bag should contain all of the following items. Teach children what to do with their gear.

• Jacket Carry one even in the summer with pockets and hood for warmth and to staff food and the other gear.
• Food is essential. Pack snack bars that are sealed. Sealed snacks don't emit odors that attract bears.
• Whistle (can be attached to clothing) Yelling is exhausting and can't be heard at a distance. Train a child to blow 3 short bursts.
• Reflector Use foil or an old CD, not a breakable mirror. This will keep a child occupied in one place and can be used to signal.
• Colored Strips of Plastic - Markers tied to branches alert searchers to the child's location. Use orange garbage bags, kite plastic in strips, anything bright. Colored tape is readily available.
• Large Garbage Bag This can serve as a small tent in bad weather with a face slit. Use an orange bag if possible. Protection from rain can be a lifesaver.

WHAT TO DO IF ...

The first thing a child should know -even if they forget everything else-- is to STOP and STAY in one place as soon as they realize they are alone, lost or separated. Their chances of being located right away are much better the sooner they stop. You would hardly believe how far they've been known to wander.

Fear of Strangers

Let children know that if they are lost, strangers will be looking for them. Hiding from strangers or dogs is not a good idea in this special circumstance. Search dogs will always wear special vests. Searchers may or may not be in uniform. You can tell a child that if strangers know a lost child's name it's because Mommy or Daddy asked them to help.

Stay Warm

If nightfall arrives and a child is still lost, warmth becomes essential. Teach children to make a bed of branches, leaves and brush to stay off the cold ground. Keep warm by putting on all clothing, hats, and gloves. Staying dry is crucial. So staying away from water is a good guidline. If children are together they should cuddle for warmth. It is important to make a bed as close to the place where the child stoppped as possible. Practice making a bed of natural materials while camping.

Children can drink water from the leaves of plants if they get thirsty. It's better than falling into a stream and getting wet and cold.

EXTRA PRECAUTIONS

Make a footprint of your child's shoe. This could help searchers if your child ever became lost. Take a piece of aluminum foil on a soft spot. Have the child stand on one leg to weight the imprint of their shoe in the foil. Label with the child's name and date. Put this in your car's glove box or visor. Remember to make a new print with new shoes. Even if the child has on different shoes, the size of the print will provide information to searchers.

WHO DO YOU CONTACT?

Disclaimer

the Editors

The information in this newsletter was gathered from many sources and presents facts as we believe them to be true. This newsletter is not meant to be an official document, but a means to disseminate team information.