Mounted search and rescue

[<pennbo@verizon.net>]

I'd like to clarify a few things- our area is VERY rugged. That means that it 
would be impossible to 'plug all the holes' communication-wise. I know it is 
hard for some units to imagine what it is like - while other units experience 
the same type of terrain. From my front window, right now, I can see EIGHT 
different ridgelines. That means there are valleys in between. Some of those 
valleys are several thousand feet deep (to the valley floor from the 
peak/ridge).

On longer term searches we have our communications well in hand. We use both 
HAM and Sheriff radios, as well as handi-talkies for intra-unit 
communication. We have portable repeaters placed as necessary. It is the 
initial hasty search that may leave holes. 

I guess, in hindsight of my initial question, there really is nothing we can 
do except to be aware that we are entering a 'dead' zone and will be 
incommunicado for a time. :-)

Chris