Not the American Express Card... If you are going out for a casual stroll in the hills or an all day hike, here is a list of things you should not leave home without.  Why bring this stuff?   Nearly half of our SAR missions could have been prevented if these items were brought along. Note: This kit has been labeled by some SAR members as "The Oh-Sh*t Kit"

    What each is used for:

 Energy If you get lost, tired, hungry, and cold, one thing you will need is the
     energy to get back home. Having emergency rations for that time in need is critical.
     Without the energy to move, you will have no choice but to stay put.

 Garbage Bag This can be used as an improvised poncho or shelter to keep you dry
     on a rainy evening out. This little gem of equipment can make the difference between
     being cold and miserable vs. warm and dry. On longer excursions, it can also mean
     staying alive an extra few days.

 Map of the area This is often the most forgotten piece of equipment (Mostly based
     on machismo.) Do men of the 90's ask for directions? Anyhow, we have all been in the
     position where we scratched our heads, and said, "Weren't we just here?" We think to
     ourselves, "Am I running around in circles?" and as evening approaches, we find
     ourselves asking more desperately, "How do I get out of here?" or "How do I get back
     to camp?" Obviously, just having a map is not an out of the box solution. We need to
     be familiar with how to read it and orient ourselves with it.

  Small flashlight: This instrument will help you read the map at night as well as helping
     you find your way. Provided the batteries are good...

  Extra Layer of ClothingBeing warm is key to staying alert and aware of your
     surroundings. This can mean again the difference between being warm and happy vs.
     cold and miserable. Again, on longer excursions, it can also mean staying alive an extra
     few days.

 Whistle This will prevent you from wearing out your voice when separated from the
     rest of your group. Also, if you are lost, it sometimes takes a long time to locate people
     even after voice contact is made. We recommend a plastic whistle. Metal whistles tend
     to stick to your lips in cold weather.

 Small First aid kit: This kit can have a great impact as far as life and death situations..
     Stopping blood loss, can be crucial to living long enough for help to arrive. On a lighter
     note, this kit can make a hike much more comfortable by putting Band-Aids on potential
     blisters, etc.

  List prepared by Mike St. John and Derek Janssen