CERT backpack addition idea

Just an idea for an CERT backpack addition but from an low incomers point of view though trying to change that financial status. Otherwise the idea would be an flare gun that could come in handy during search/rescue out in the sticks.

But recently I came into a good deal on pop bottle rockets yet wrapped in celephane bundles of maybe an sixty count per bundle. Have an aluminum tube that I plan to stuff a bundle in both for keeping dry and adding an safety feature but as an matter of fact plan to carry in my hunting backpack because (and sad to say but for health reasons) but while out hunting with my mobile telephone for 911 dialing and using them I might be the one needing searched and rescued for out in the sticks where the crack from the pop part and light from the rocket part might make for the quicker rescue.

Again,just a thought. Maybe better for safety reasons like everyone shouldn't need a flare gun to haul around in backpacks but Incident Command could maybe have a few on hand in the event pairs would be deployed for search/rescue out in the sticks sometime

That is a very good idea to carry a Flare Gun Or Bottle Rockets with you in a Search and Rescue Event or even  have Roman Candles to mark your Location where you are at and/or you and the Victims Location.it can be in the works in the mid Feature

I would advize folks to check their State laws regarding fireworsks. It is illegal in many states to posess fireworks of any kind, unless you have a permit to stage a fireworks display.

Hi Matt Green,

Thanks for posting on the FEMA Communities website! 

I strongly agree with your comments about the LEGALITY of possessing fireworks.  While it may seem like a good idea, many states have strict laws AGAINST having fire works.

Sincerely,

-Eric Goldman 

One problem I see is that you could injury your self (Burns) not to mention if the land in a dry area in the woods there is a possibility of them starting a fire.

Which if you notice in the passed as caused a great loss as well as loss of life.

Just one bottle rocket could cost millions. Not to mention give CERT a bad rep. Michael F Bookman Beverly Emergency Management

That is a creative solution however here in central AZ the ' sticks ' have been known to go up in massive forest fires from shot gun shells. Anything that emits flames or sparks could cause not only a personal safety issue but also a community safety issue. I would strongly advise anyone considering this idea to take the condition of their local outdoors into consideration before using a flare gun or bottle rockets.

A mirror and flashlight can achieve a lot and is reusable.

Make sure the mirror is made of stainless steel or highly-polished metal. Glass mirrors are a potential risk...but I'm sure you knew that already.

Small rockets may be useful.. But a signal mirror will be more effective in signalling Search and Rescue aircraft during the day as well as tarpaulin if you are in an open area.

Excellent creative thinking "outside the box" - like other fireworks in my region wouldn't be approved and difficult to obtain. 

Maybe light sticks (larger ones) could fill the need for nighttime; some are very bright and they do come in varying colors

Multiple flash lights - including a hand crank model also would be good to have a recent discount store had these for $5 and they work well.

And the mirror is definitely a must; don't have one, try a compact disc, has an eye hole for siting at target - they've saved many a sole out in the wild

 

Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving

As a kayaker we carry small portable strobe lights and a small portable air horn both of which are extremely effective and don't take up much room in a pack.