OB Approved Preparedness & Self Recovery Familiarization

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Kyle & Kari Frink

Rank VI
Launch Member

Pathfinder II

4,387
San Diego, California
Member #

6376

PREPAREDNESS
We all at one point or another make the decision to head out and EXPLORE ON OUR OWN. Which is okay, however you still need to be LEGITIMATELY PREPARED.
You should have set in place a "notice" of sorts to your whereabouts, and when you expect to be back.
So that if something actually happens to you while in the wilderness, the proper authorities will know where to look for you in a worst case scenario.

Overland Bound has a Forum section just for that and should be taken seriously.
This link is posted below.

https://www.overlandbound.com/forums/forums/check-out-in-beta.94/

COMMUNICATIONS

Take a means of communication for areas without cell phone service. This is not only having a means of communication, but understanding what channels are being monitored for emergencies.
Common Devices:
  • CB Radio (Citizens Band)
  • HAM Radio (Supposedly named after the last names of three pioneers of this radio)
  • SPOT Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger
  • GMRS
  • Last but not least a Signaling Mirror
OLB Communications Channels
  • HAM: 146.460
  • GMRS: 15
  • CB: 16
Please be aware and fully understand that Channel 9 on CB Radios is mandated by FCC Law as EMERGENCY USE ONLY!

The SPOT Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger is a great asset to have to reach emergency responders. It can send pre recorded text messages to your family for help, or just to let them know you are okay.

Also just in case all other means of communications have failed or are not working, have a signaling mirror! Simply by attracting someone's attention using the mirror could save your life, knowing how to signal S.O.S. is good to know as well.

NAVIGATION

If the AREA/LOCATION you are going to visit is new to you, DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Try as best you can to familiarize yourself with the area.

This should includes:
  • Purchasing a good topographic map of the area
    • Yes paper maps can be pricey, especially NAT GEO maps. To include maps offered for purchase at REI, however are very useful due to the amount of information available.
  • Something as simple as downloading sections of online maps for where you will be traversing is available on Google Maps for when you loose service.
  • GPS is good to have but typically does not have very detailed information for places far from populous areas. So a fantastic alternative is Gaia Maps which you can download onto most electronic devices.
PLANNING

Think about these simple things in your planning phase before adventuring out:
  • How long will the duration of your trip be?
    • How much food/water/clothes is sufficient?
  • What kind of terrain will you expect where you are going?
    • Is your rig capable enough?
      • I.E. there are places that require:
      • 4-wheel drive
      • M/T tires that are snow rated
      • Tire Chains
  • The time of year?
    • Best advice is to wear layers!
  • How is the weather going to turn out for the duration of your trip?
    • Not only looking before you go but while you are out is important as well.
    • NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards transmitters broadcast on one of seven VHF frequencies (USA & CANADA) from 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz. These broadcasts cannot be heard on simple AM/FM radio receivers. Consideration of purchasing a Weather Radio should be not taken lightly. Since it could prevent unwanted mishaps due to unexpected weather during your journey.
  • What activities are allowed or not allowed where you are going?
    • Campfires
    • Firearms
    • Pets
    • Off-road activity
Please visit Michael's Ultimate Overland Checklist and Corrie's Overland Trip Planner

Gear, Tools, and Supplies

You don't need to take a crazy amount of items with you for every outing! But some items are essential and should always be taken with you.

  • Do you have a medical kit?
  • Do you have an S.O.S. kit/Bug out bag?
  • What kind of recovery gear should you take?
  • Do you have containers for extra Fuel (for long trips far away from resources) and drinkable Water?
  • Do you have the ability to Jumpstart/Charge your vehicle should your battery die?
  • Do you have an external battery pack such as a Goal Zero?
    • This is for when you are wanting to run low wattage lights, charge your phone, and other electronics when your vehicle is off so as not to drain your vehicles battery.
    • Another option to consider is running a dual battery setup.
  • A means of packing out what you pack in such as a Trasharoo?
    • A pleasant way to keep your trash on the outside of your vehicle rather than on the inside.
  • Do you have an Axe/Chainsaw and a Shovel?
    • An axe/chainsaw for downed trees on trails, only do this is if you absolutely know what you are doing. (Also certain places do allow for the chopping up of "dead wood" on the ground for firewood. This is a way to save money and still practice burn it where you buy it as well.)
    • There will be times when you get stuck in the dirt or sand, and a shovel will definitely help.
  • Means of a shelter other than a tent, such as to provide shade and protection from the elements?
  • If fires are not allowed, do you have a propane burner to retain the ability to cook food?
  • Binoculars?
  • Flashlights?
  • Knife for utilitarian use and protection?
  • Toiletries? (you never know lol even on a quick day trip you could be far away from the nearest toilet and have the need to go)
There are many factors to consider, but the one that will serve you the best is COMMON SENSE. Finding a Balance of when too much gear will inhibit your vehicles performance in emergency situations versus being under-prepared.​

SELF RECOVERY FAMILIARIZATION

Understand that no matter how well you were paying attention, or how much experience you have driving off-road. Every once in a while you are going to get stuck, it happens to even the most experienced wheeler.

Just remember that YOU went off on a single rig exploration, and that help may not be nearby.
No matter how long you wait, help might never show up!

So with that being said:
  • Understanding your rigs limitations
  • How to properly and effectively use your recovery gear
    • A lack of familiarization and knowledge of your equipment could lead to:
      • Damage of your Rig and Equipment
      • Serious injury to yourself and anyone in harms way.
  • The use of techniques to get yourself unstuck
    • There are numerous resources available online for free, and resources for a fee. (trust me paying a little to learn proper recovery skills is worth it!)
    • There are recovery workshops that provide great hands on tips and training to ensure you can have a successful self-recovery.
    • One great example is Overland Expo East & West, they host a plethora of training events/classes about self-recovery. Below is a link to their site:
https://www.overlandexpo.com/

Here are a couple things to consider, to include the familiarization of your gear:

  • Understand when to air down your tires and how much. (only do this if you have a means of airing back up your tires for when you make it back to paved roads)
    • 10-15% for rough terrain such as unmaintained roads and washbeds
    • 15-25% for rock crawling
    • 25%-50% for soft sand and dunes.
      • Understand the further down in pressure you go, the greater the chance of popping the tire off the bead which holds the tire to the rim. It is highly recommended that if you intend on airing down this low to purchase a set of true bead-locking rims.
  • Know and fully understand how your winch works:
    • Modes of operation
    • Pulling Load limitations
    • In case of an electrical failure could you troubleshoot to fix it?
      • Carrying a multimeter to isolate the cause of the electrical failure is key.
    • How to self-recover when your winch fails
Listed below is a link to some great winch familiarization:

http://electricwinchshop.com.au/winch-safe-operation
  • Knowing when and how to properly use recovery boards/sand mats such as:
    • Maxtrax
    • Tred4x4
    • Smittybilt Element Recovery Boards
  • Knowledge and Proper use of a Hi-lift Jack:
    • Has it been maintained?
      • Proper lubrication
      • Proper Stowage to protect vital parts
      • No visible damage
    • Understanding exactly where on your rig it can used so as not to damage your vehicle.
    • Maintaining proper control of the Hi-Lift at all times to prevent in adverted droppage of your rig.
    • Placing the Hi-Lift under load in such a manner where it will not fly out from under your rig potentially hurting yourself and others.
    • How to use your Hi-Lift as a come-along for either when you don't have a winch, or for when your winch fails.

There are a lot of things to consider, but the best thing you have in your tool belt is KNOWING YOUR LIMITATIONS based on your rigs capability and your experience wheeling. If at any time you think you know everything there is to know about off-roading, you are wrong! There is always room for improvement, if you wheel often you will be placed in situations that will test you, and make you better for it!

SO GET OUT THERE AND EXPLORE BUT DO SO PREPARED!




 
Last edited:

Chadlyb

Rank V
Launch Member

Advocate III

2,779
Bend, OR, USA
Member #

7632

PREPAREDNESS
We all at one point or another make the decision to head out and EXPLORE ON OUR OWN. Which is okay, however you still need to be LEGITIMATELY PREPARED.
You should have set in place a "notice" of sorts to your whereabouts, and when you expect to be back.
So that if something actually happens to you while in the wilderness, the proper authorities will know where to look for you in a worst case scenario.

Overland Bound has a Forum section just for that and should be taken seriously.
This link is posted below.

https://www.overlandbound.com/forums/forums/check-out-in-beta.94/

COMMUNICATIONS

Take a means of communication for areas without cell phone service. This is not only having a means of communication, but understanding what channels are being monitored for emergencies.
Common Devices:
  • CB Radio (Citizens Band)
  • HAM Radio (Supposedly named after the last names of three pioneers of this radio)
  • SPOT Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger
  • GMRS
  • Last but not least a Signaling Mirror
OLB Communications Channels
  • HAM: 146.460
  • GMRS: 15
  • CB: 16
Please be aware and fully understand that Channel 9 on CB Radios is mandated by FCC Law as EMERGENCY USE ONLY!

The SPOT Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger is a great asset to have to reach emergency responders. It can send pre recorded text messages to your family for help, or just to let them know you are okay.

Also just in case all other means of communications have failed or are not working, have a signaling mirror! Simply by attracting someone's attention using the mirror could save your life, knowing how to signal S.O.S. is good to know as well.

NAVIGATION

If the AREA/LOCATION you are going to visit is new to you, DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Try as best you can to familiarize yourself with the area.

This should includes:
  • Purchasing a good topographic map of the area
    • Yes paper maps can be pricey, especially NAT GEO maps. To include maps offered for purchase at REI, however are very useful due to the amount of information available.
  • Something as simple as downloading sections of online maps for where you will be traversing is available on Google Maps for when you loose service.
  • GPS is good to have but typically does not have very detailed information for places far from populous areas. So a fantastic alternative is Gaia Maps which you can download onto most electronic devices.
PLANNING

Think about these simple things in your planning phase before adventuring out:
  • How long will the duration of your trip be?
    • How much food/water/clothes is sufficient?
  • What kind of terrain will you expect where you are going?
    • Is your rig capable enough?
      • I.E. there are places that require:
      • 4-wheel drive
      • M/T tires that are snow rated
      • Tire Chains
  • The time of year?
    • Best advice is to wear layers!
  • How is the weather going to turn out for the duration of your trip?
    • Not only looking before you go but while you are out is important as well.
    • NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards transmitters broadcast on one of seven VHF frequencies (USA & CANADA) from 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz. These broadcasts cannot be heard on simple AM/FM radio receivers. Consideration of purchasing a Weather Radio should be not taken lightly. Since it could prevent unwanted mishaps due to unexpected weather during your journey.
  • What activities are allowed or not allowed where you are going?
    • Campfires
    • Firearms
    • Pets
    • Off-road activity
Please visit Michael's Ultimate Overland Checklist and Corrie's Overland Trip Planner

Gear, Tools, and Supplies

You don't need to take a crazy amount of items with you for every outing! But some items are essential and should always be taken with you.

  • Do you have a medical kit?
  • Do you have an S.O.S. kit/Bug out bag?
  • What kind of recovery gear should you take?
  • Do you have containers for extra Fuel (for long trips far away from resources) and drinkable Water?
  • Do you have the ability to Jumpstart/Charge your vehicle should your battery die?
  • Do you have an external battery pack such as a Goal Zero?
    • This is for when you are wanting to run low wattage lights, charge your phone, and other electronics when your vehicle is off so as not to drain your vehicles battery.
    • Another option to consider is running a dual battery setup.
  • A means of packing out what you pack in such as a Trasharoo?
    • A pleasant way to keep your trash on the outside of your vehicle rather than on the inside.
  • Do you have an Axe/Chainsaw and a Shovel?
    • An axe/chainsaw for downed trees on trails, only do this is if you absolutely know what you are doing. (Also certain places do allow for the chopping up of "dead wood" on the ground for firewood. This is a way to save money and still practice burn it where you buy it as well.)
    • There will be times when you get stuck in the dirt or sand, and a shovel will definitely help.
  • Means of a shelter other than a tent, such as to provide shade and protection from the elements?
  • If fires are not allowed, do you have a propane burner to retain the ability to cook food?
  • Binoculars?
  • Flashlights?
  • Knife for utilitarian use and protection?
  • Toiletries? (you never know lol even on a quick day trip you could be far away from the nearest toilet and have the need to go)
There are many factors to consider, but the one that will serve you the best is COMMON SENSE. Finding a Balance of when too much gear will inhibit your vehicles performance in emergency situations versus being under-prepared.​

SELF RECOVERY FAMILIARIZATION

Understand that no matter how well you were paying attention, or how much experience you have driving off-road. Every once in a while you are going to get stuck, it happens to even the most experienced wheeler.

Just remember that YOU went off on a single rig exploration, and that help may not be nearby.
No matter how long you wait, help might never show up!

So with that being said:
  • Understanding your rigs limitations
  • How to properly and effectively use your recovery gear
    • A lack of familiarization and knowledge of your equipment could lead to:
      • Damage of your Rig and Equipment
      • Serious injury to yourself and anyone in harms way.
  • The use of techniques to get yourself unstuck
    • There are numerous resources available online for free, and resources for a fee. (trust me paying a little to learn proper recovery skills is worth it!)
    • There are recovery workshops that provide great hands on tips and training to ensure you can have a successful self-recovery.
    • One great example is Overland Expo East & West, they host a plethora of training events/classes about self-recovery. Below is a link to their site:
https://www.overlandexpo.com/

Here are a couple things to consider, to include the familiarization of your gear:

  • Understand when to air down your tires and how much. (only do this if you have a means of airing back up your tires for when you make it back to paved roads)
    • 10-15% for rough terrain such as unmaintained roads and washbeds
    • 15-25% for rock crawling
    • 25%-50% for soft sand and dunes.
      • Understand the further down in pressure you go, the greater the chance of popping the tire off the bead which holds the tire to the rim. It is highly recommended that if you intend on airing down this low to purchase a set of true bead-locking rims.
  • Know and fully understand how your winch works:
    • Modes of operation
    • Pulling Load limitations
    • In case of an electrical failure could you troubleshoot to fix it?
      • Carrying a multimeter to isolate the cause of the electrical failure is key.
    • How to self-recover when your winch fails
Listed below is a link to some great winch familiarization:

http://electricwinchshop.com.au/winch-safe-operation
  • Knowing when and how to properly use recovery boards/sand mats such as:
    • Maxtrax
    • Tred4x4
    • Smittybilt Element Recovery Boards
  • Knowledge and Proper use of a Hi-lift Jack:
    • Has it been maintained?
      • Proper lubrication
      • Proper Stowage to protect vital parts
      • No visible damage
    • Understanding exactly where on your rig it can used so as not to damage your vehicle.
    • Maintaining proper control of the Hi-Lift at all times to prevent in adverted droppage of your rig.
    • Placing the Hi-Lift under load in such a manner where it will not fly out from under your rig potentially hurting yourself and others.
    • How to use your Hi-Lift as a come-along for either when you don't have a winch, or for when your winch fails.

There are a lot of things to consider, but the best thing you have in your tool belt is KNOWING YOUR LIMITATIONS based on your rigs capability and your experience wheeling. If at any time you think you know everything there is to know about off-roading, you are wrong! There is always room for improvement, if you wheel often you will be placed in situations that will test you, and make you better for it!

SO GET OUT THERE AND EXPLORE BUT DO SO PREPARED!




Excellent thread and information....thank you for sharing it and preparing it. Appreciated....
 
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Kyle & Kari Frink

Rank VI
Launch Member

Pathfinder II

4,387
San Diego, California
Member #

6376

Excellent post and definitely gave me a lot of insight on areas to learn more about.
No worries, that's all we want is to share the knowledge so others can apply it through experience.

Because just knowledge alone is not power, Properly applied Knowledge is power. Keep that in mind lol

Stay safe out there and take care!
 

Kyle & Kari Frink

Rank VI
Launch Member

Pathfinder II

4,387
San Diego, California
Member #

6376

Thanks for the detailed info. Much to learn!
Sure thing, if at any point anyone thinks they know everything. STOP! You are wrong and need to re-evaluate your life lol. Not a single person alive knows everything, that's the grand scheme of life, having to work with others to "know everything"

Everyone has a piece to the puzzle, communication and coordination of knowledge is how you reach the "bigger picture".

Life should be an adventure, so get out there and explore!
 
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Magic Mike

US Full-time/Long Term Travel Ambassador
Launch Member
Member

Expedition Master I

11,455
Rapid City, South Dakota, United States
First Name
Michael
Last Name
Lee
Member #

13728

Ham/GMRS Callsign
KM6YKV
Service Branch
Army & Marine Corps
PREPAREDNESS
We all at one point or another make the decision to head out and EXPLORE ON OUR OWN. Which is okay, however you still need to be LEGITIMATELY PREPARED.
You should have set in place a "notice" of sorts to your whereabouts, and when you expect to be back.
So that if something actually happens to you while in the wilderness, the proper authorities will know where to look for you in a worst case scenario.

Overland Bound has a Forum section just for that and should be taken seriously.
This link is posted below.

https://www.overlandbound.com/forums/forums/check-out-in-beta.94/

COMMUNICATIONS

Take a means of communication for areas without cell phone service. This is not only having a means of communication, but understanding what channels are being monitored for emergencies.
Common Devices:
  • CB Radio (Citizens Band)
  • HAM Radio (Supposedly named after the last names of three pioneers of this radio)
  • SPOT Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger
  • GMRS
  • Last but not least a Signaling Mirror
OLB Communications Channels
  • HAM: 146.460
  • GMRS: 15
  • CB: 16
Please be aware and fully understand that Channel 9 on CB Radios is mandated by FCC Law as EMERGENCY USE ONLY!

The SPOT Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger is a great asset to have to reach emergency responders. It can send pre recorded text messages to your family for help, or just to let them know you are okay.

Also just in case all other means of communications have failed or are not working, have a signaling mirror! Simply by attracting someone's attention using the mirror could save your life, knowing how to signal S.O.S. is good to know as well.

NAVIGATION

If the AREA/LOCATION you are going to visit is new to you, DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Try as best you can to familiarize yourself with the area.

This should includes:
  • Purchasing a good topographic map of the area
    • Yes paper maps can be pricey, especially NAT GEO maps. To include maps offered for purchase at REI, however are very useful due to the amount of information available.
  • Something as simple as downloading sections of online maps for where you will be traversing is available on Google Maps for when you loose service.
  • GPS is good to have but typically does not have very detailed information for places far from populous areas. So a fantastic alternative is Gaia Maps which you can download onto most electronic devices.
PLANNING

Think about these simple things in your planning phase before adventuring out:
  • How long will the duration of your trip be?
    • How much food/water/clothes is sufficient?
  • What kind of terrain will you expect where you are going?
    • Is your rig capable enough?
      • I.E. there are places that require:
      • 4-wheel drive
      • M/T tires that are snow rated
      • Tire Chains
  • The time of year?
    • Best advice is to wear layers!
  • How is the weather going to turn out for the duration of your trip?
    • Not only looking before you go but while you are out is important as well.
    • NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards transmitters broadcast on one of seven VHF frequencies (USA & CANADA) from 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz. These broadcasts cannot be heard on simple AM/FM radio receivers. Consideration of purchasing a Weather Radio should be not taken lightly. Since it could prevent unwanted mishaps due to unexpected weather during your journey.
  • What activities are allowed or not allowed where you are going?
    • Campfires
    • Firearms
    • Pets
    • Off-road activity
Please visit Michael's Ultimate Overland Checklist and Corrie's Overland Trip Planner

Gear, Tools, and Supplies

You don't need to take a crazy amount of items with you for every outing! But some items are essential and should always be taken with you.

  • Do you have a medical kit?
  • Do you have an S.O.S. kit/Bug out bag?
  • What kind of recovery gear should you take?
  • Do you have containers for extra Fuel (for long trips far away from resources) and drinkable Water?
  • Do you have the ability to Jumpstart/Charge your vehicle should your battery die?
  • Do you have an external battery pack such as a Goal Zero?
    • This is for when you are wanting to run low wattage lights, charge your phone, and other electronics when your vehicle is off so as not to drain your vehicles battery.
    • Another option to consider is running a dual battery setup.
  • A means of packing out what you pack in such as a Trasharoo?
    • A pleasant way to keep your trash on the outside of your vehicle rather than on the inside.
  • Do you have an Axe/Chainsaw and a Shovel?
    • An axe/chainsaw for downed trees on trails, only do this is if you absolutely know what you are doing. (Also certain places do allow for the chopping up of "dead wood" on the ground for firewood. This is a way to save money and still practice burn it where you buy it as well.)
    • There will be times when you get stuck in the dirt or sand, and a shovel will definitely help.
  • Means of a shelter other than a tent, such as to provide shade and protection from the elements?
  • If fires are not allowed, do you have a propane burner to retain the ability to cook food?
  • Binoculars?
  • Flashlights?
  • Knife for utilitarian use and protection?
  • Toiletries? (you never know lol even on a quick day trip you could be far away from the nearest toilet and have the need to go)
There are many factors to consider, but the one that will serve you the best is COMMON SENSE. Finding a Balance of when too much gear will inhibit your vehicles performance in emergency situations versus being under-prepared.​

SELF RECOVERY FAMILIARIZATION

Understand that no matter how well you were paying attention, or how much experience you have driving off-road. Every once in a while you are going to get stuck, it happens to even the most experienced wheeler.

Just remember that YOU went off on a single rig exploration, and that help may not be nearby.
No matter how long you wait, help might never show up!

So with that being said:
  • Understanding your rigs limitations
  • How to properly and effectively use your recovery gear
    • A lack of familiarization and knowledge of your equipment could lead to:
      • Damage of your Rig and Equipment
      • Serious injury to yourself and anyone in harms way.
  • The use of techniques to get yourself unstuck
    • There are numerous resources available online for free, and resources for a fee. (trust me paying a little to learn proper recovery skills is worth it!)
    • There are recovery workshops that provide great hands on tips and training to ensure you can have a successful self-recovery.
    • One great example is Overland Expo East & West, they host a plethora of training events/classes about self-recovery. Below is a link to their site:
https://www.overlandexpo.com/

Here are a couple things to consider, to include the familiarization of your gear:

  • Understand when to air down your tires and how much. (only do this if you have a means of airing back up your tires for when you make it back to paved roads)
    • 10-15% for rough terrain such as unmaintained roads and washbeds
    • 15-25% for rock crawling
    • 25%-50% for soft sand and dunes.
      • Understand the further down in pressure you go, the greater the chance of popping the tire off the bead which holds the tire to the rim. It is highly recommended that if you intend on airing down this low to purchase a set of true bead-locking rims.
  • Know and fully understand how your winch works:
    • Modes of operation
    • Pulling Load limitations
    • In case of an electrical failure could you troubleshoot to fix it?
      • Carrying a multimeter to isolate the cause of the electrical failure is key.
    • How to self-recover when your winch fails
Listed below is a link to some great winch familiarization:

http://electricwinchshop.com.au/winch-safe-operation
  • Knowing when and how to properly use recovery boards/sand mats such as:
    • Maxtrax
    • Tred4x4
    • Smittybilt Element Recovery Boards
  • Knowledge and Proper use of a Hi-lift Jack:
    • Has it been maintained?
      • Proper lubrication
      • Proper Stowage to protect vital parts
      • No visible damage
    • Understanding exactly where on your rig it can used so as not to damage your vehicle.
    • Maintaining proper control of the Hi-Lift at all times to prevent in adverted droppage of your rig.
    • Placing the Hi-Lift under load in such a manner where it will not fly out from under your rig potentially hurting yourself and others.
    • How to use your Hi-Lift as a come-along for either when you don't have a winch, or for when your winch fails.

There are a lot of things to consider, but the best thing you have in your tool belt is KNOWING YOUR LIMITATIONS based on your rigs capability and your experience wheeling. If at any time you think you know everything there is to know about off-roading, you are wrong! There is always room for improvement, if you wheel often you will be placed in situations that will test you, and make you better for it!

SO GET OUT THERE AND EXPLORE BUT DO SO PREPARED!




Thank you for this great info! I am definitely a novice wheeler, but eager to learn! I have found a great group of people here in the Sierra Foothills that have tons of experience and are will to share they’re experiences. Great read and thank u again.
 
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MOAK

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Launch Member

Off-Road Ranger I

2,865
Wernersville Public Library, North Reber Street, Wernersville, PA, USA
First Name
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Diehl
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Ham/GMRS Callsign
WRPN 506
Thanks for this writeup and for confirming what goes on in my mind, We have been going it alone for over 25 years and I must admit, some folks think I'm a bit anal retentive about our being prepared. You have added a couple of things to my list. However, we will more than likely continue with a simple CB radio, and our PLB. Another couple of things to be cognizant of, that we don't talk about too much, but must always keep in the back of our minds is that, In a worst case scenario, you must have have enough money on hand to pay professionals to retract your truck, then repair it or have it shipped back home. Or, in the very worst case scenario be prepared and able, to walk away from it. We carry bug out bags with us at all times. On local tours here back east, we always have a day pack with about a gallon of water. When we are out west, way out, we always carry our back packs loaded with everything and a little more, that a through hiker would need. Thanks again for the post !!
 

JNewton99

Rank IV
Launch Member

Enthusiast III

1,116
Center, TX, USA
First Name
Jonathan
Last Name
Newton
Member #

17840

Great tips! A good list to keep on hand and remember complacency can hurt you! Just because you've been doing something over and over doesn't mean it will all be fine. Always be prepared for the unexpected in all that you do!