Alpine Search and Rescue Victoria Inc

Reg No A0013705J
ASPA Logo

alpineSAR is an experienced group of cross-country skiers and bushwalkers skilled in search and rescue who are called out for search and rescue in alpine and other areas by the Victoria Police as part of the Bush Search and Rescue Victoria

First Aid Courses

UHF CB Radios

FIRST AID COURSES

All callout members must have a current first-aid qualification.  Although a basic first aid course is acceptable at this time there are several other options that provide much more comprehensive programs that give participants much greater skills, confidence and knowledge.  Obviously one excellent course is the ASPA (Aust Ski Patrol Assoc Advanced Emergency Care Course) 5-day course that takes place annually each autumn.  Another option is the four-day Remote Area First Aid course run by Wilderness First Aid Consultants which is an excellent course that includes lots of hands-on scenarios and a very structured system for handling first aid emergencies.  There is also a 7 day Leaders Wilderness First Aid course run by the same company which is once again excellent.  The main issue with any of these courses is obviously both the time and cost factor although I can assure you that it is ultimately worth it, if you find yourself taking responsibility for others in the outdoors regularly.

More info and course dates/costs can be accessed via the web at: http://www.safetynetwork.com.au/ with specific info on the 'remote areas' course at http://www.wildernessfirstaid.com.au/wfac/rafac.html

UHF RADIOS

Technical Requirements for UHF CB Radios

All alpineSAR members must have a radio

The following are the requirements for a BSAR-compatible UHF CB Radio:

  • Access to all 38 UHF voice channels with the capability to use repeater channels as required
  • Simple and intuitive to use
  • Must allow use of AA batteries, for the following reasons:
    • AA cells are readily available at supermarkets and storesmost GPSs use AA cells hence only one type of battery need be carried
    • BSAR already maintains a supply of AA batteries
    • they are less likely to require changeover in the field due to their capacity
    • others in your group and adjacent groups will also have AA cells
    • either high capacity alkaline cells (preferred) or high capacity rechargeable nickel metal hydride cells can be used. Nicads are not recommended
    • AA cells last significantly longer that AAA cells, especially in the very cold condition
    • A key lock function so the radio does not accidentally change channel when bumped or in your pocket
  • At least 1.5 watt power output - less than this limits transmit coverage in difficult terrain
  • A physical ON/OFF switch, normally associated with the volume control. Some radios have an electronic ON/OFF switch that drains the batteries over an extended period of time
  • The radio should be readily available from electronics stores and not be a one-off special
  • A stout wrist strap and belt clip
  • A minimum of 24 hours of receive-only operation
  • Speaker/mike

Other desirable features should include:

  • Availability of CTCSS tone functionality to reduce unwanted traffic
  • Waterproof
  • Battery save functionality – radio listens for a short time and if no activity goes to sleep for a short time

Features not required for BSAR use include:

  • Rechargeable batteries and desktop chargers
  • Power output of 5w. This draws excessive power on transmit, reduces battery life and often results in a physically larger radio
  • Voice activation for transmission (VOX) as VOX activates automatically in high winds and blocks the channel to anyone else

 

Rik Head