Staying safe in Sisters Country

The busy outdoor recreation season is underway in Sisters Country and across Central Oregon.

That means it’s the busy season for Deschutes County Search and Rescue.

Last month, volunteers have responded to calls for service to injured motorcycle riders, lost or missing people and hikers, lost snowmobile riders, missing motorcycle riders, medical emergencies and injuries, stuck climbers, and stuck motorists. 

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue is asking the public to plan, and prepare for their outdoor activities they wish to participate in. Bring along:

• Navigation: A USGS or equal topo map, a properly declinated (14 degrees east locally) base plate compass, along with the knowledge of how to use them together. A simple GPS can also be quite useful if you’re familiar with how to use it and the batteries aren’t dead. A watch and fully charged cell phone should also be carried.

• Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat (for hot or cold, summer or winter weather).

• Insulation: The most important consideration: No cotton clothing! Carry synthetic or wool layers, waterproof/windproof rain jacket/ pants; extra gloves/hat, and extra socks as required. Wear layers of clothing.

• Illumination: Headlamp or flashlight, with extra batteries.

• First Aid: Basic supplies such as Band-Aids, gauze pads, triangular and compression bandages, etc.

• Fire: Waterproof matches, butane lighter or candle stubs, plus fire-starting materials (paste, etc.). Do not depend on making a fire in bad weather!

• Nutrition: High-energy, no-cook foods, such as high-carb energy bars. Carry at least 200 calories for every hour you will be out.

• Hydration: Extra water; take at least a liter for short outings and at least 2.5 liters for all-day excursions.

• Emergency shelter: A space blanket or bright plastic tarp and a few large plastic trash bags.

There are vast areas within Deschutes County where cell service is limited to the point of being non-existent. Always carry an alternative Satellite Communication Device such as Spot, Garmin In-Reach, Zoleo, ACR Bivy Stick in case of an emergency without cell service.