The cold, strong winds, rain, and snow are some of the natural elements that SAR teams need to battle with when operating in the wilderness, such as in mountain and cave rescues. Urban search-and-rescue deployed in response to hazards such as earthquakes, terrorist attacks, and technological accidents could involve fire and structural collapse that pose different types of risks. The appropriate urban and wilderness search and rescue gear will provide the type of protection the rescue environment requires.
For example, hypothermia is one of the most common causes of death in the mountains. When a person is unprepared for the cold, wearing improper clothing, the body will begin to lose more heat than it can generate, resulting in hypothermia if not addressed. Search and rescue clothing that allows body heat to be retained and keeps moisture out, while also being waterproof, is very effective in keeping the body warm.
Urban search and rescue operations involving fire require SAR gear that is fire-resistant and doesn’t combust or melt when exposed to very high temperatures.
BUFF® Safety offers head and neck protection that fulfills these demanding requirements
High-visibility clothing is an essential component of urban as well as wilderness search and rescue gear kits. BUFF® Safety offers a selection of products designed specifically for those working in poor visibility or low light conditions. The enhanced visibility of BUFF® multifunctional headwear and search and rescue hats is achieved with fluorescent colors and the use of 3M Scotchlite™ retro-reflective elements.