To: Mounted search and rescue <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Compass or GPS?
Date: Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:41:39 -0700
Out of date maps are a problem for SAR in North America too. For MSAR,
the existence of fences not shown on the maps is especially important.
On more than one occasion I have found it useful to record the location
and compass heading of any fences located, and any gates, and report
them to incident command. Teams on foot generally can cross fences
with ease but ATVs, motorbikes, and horses cannot. In some cases the
fence is a potential confinement for the subject. Also, crossing a
fence often creates good sign: more foot prints, scuffing, etc. So I
like to hasty search along a fence line, looking for sign.
On searches of agricultural areas, it helps to use county land records
of properties. Those name the private land owners: the people needed
to give consent to search within the parcel, and to supply keys to any
locked gates.