Emergency Whistles

[gary c.]

I carry one plus there is one built into my Osprey pack (Osprey one not very loud). A couple years ago I bought a box of good steal wistles and attached them to retractible badge lanyards from work. I gave them to everyone that hikes with me on a regularly.

[cslaght]

One thing I was also thinking about with a whistle (both day and main pack have the sternum strap plastic), is that you can whistle S.O.S. if a SAR is not apparent. This, I'd assume, would grant some attention to anyone around that help is needed.

[maverick]

A trip to the fireworks stand in early July would be roughly equivalent.

Either the bear banger or fire works as mention, would be illegal, and would increase the chances of even more wildfires in the Sierra, which is the last thing we need.

[oldranger]

Mav

Show me the regulations that coverbear bangers. Regs for seki are somewhat vague but think they would have a hard time prosecuting anyone for carrying a bear banger or even using one according to the directions.

Mike

[maverick]

You are correct Mike, the rules as written are quite vague. My main concern is that some folks may handle this as some toy, injure themselves, someone else, a bear, or start a wildfire, especially in drought conditions.

[Wandering Daisy]

I carry a plastic whistle as a necklace. I also make a point to have some very bright colored clothing. It is amazing how much easier it is to find someone if they are wearing florescent hunter orange. A bright turquoise blue also works well. Another thing is that anything moving is easier to spot- perhaps have a bright orange kerchief and wave it tied to your trekking pole. A mirror is also useful.

[LMBSGV]

Anytime I hike, I carry a whistle in the small right front pocket of my camera case and a compass with a signalling mirror in the small left pocket. I don't care about a few extra ounces. If I need to count every ounce than maybe I shouldn't be hiking and backpacking.

[longri]

I don't care about a few extra ounces. If I need to count every ounce than maybe I shouldn't be hiking and backpacking.

Maybe not. Maybe you should carry a PLB and a satellite phone too. Each of those weighs just a handful of ounces. Don't forget the snakebite kit. You never know. It doesn't weigh very much.

I'll bet John Muir didn't carry a whistle.

[dave54]

Mav

Show me the regulations that coverbear bangers. Regs for seki are somewhat vague but think they would have a hard time prosecuting anyone for carrying a bear banger or even using one according to the directions.

Mike

Difficult to obtain in the U.S. I tried to find a source online and was unable. Canadian retailers will not ship to the U.S. Cannot ship through USPS mail, common carriers (UPS, FedEx) won't touch them. Considered explosives. If anyone finds a legal source post back here or PM me.

Ironic, isn't it? Canada sells bear bangers over the counter but does not allow handguns. The U.S. allows handguns but not bearbangers.

[LMBSGV]

Maybe you should carry a PLB and a satellite phone too.

I always appreciate sarcastic responses. Actually, I do carry a satellite phone when I am solo backpacking. Since I am 64 years old with a medical condition, my wife likes me to have the phone.