Submitted by Mel Rice-Public Relations
The June meeting of your Beaverhead Search and Rescue was called to order on June 5, at 7:15 PM. Commander Kolby Malesich presided over the meeting with 28 members in attendance. The meeting opened with the introduction of guests, then roll call, and treasurer’s report.
Training officer, Adam Norlander, stated that because of lack of response to the annual campout training, there would not be one in June as previously scheduled. Instead there will be a one day training September 14th for anyone who can attend. It will be a mock search/rescue. There will also be a search manager training in the near future as a refresher into the mapping program, call out proto-calls and search proto-calls. There were no searches or rescues that the unit participated in.
It was reported that Russ Sigman and Kolby Malesich delivered the “Hug a Tree” program to Parkview 5th graders on the 24th of May. As usual the program was very well received. This program is something every young person should complete. It covers exactly what a person should do in the event they become lost. It is an outstanding program.
Tara Remely, fish derby chairperson, reported she is in the process of applying for our January 2025 ice fishing derby. The application has to be in to the FWP by July 1st. This is the unit’s largest fund raiser.
Good of the Order: Commander Malesich said that we would cancel the July meeting since it was over the extended 4th of July holiday but would have a manager training the following week. The Unit has received Duckworth hooded sun shirts and anyone who has participated in a unit event, training, or search/rescue this calendar year is welcome to pick one up. Kudos were extended to several members for doing things above and beyond: Brad Wagner for communications work, Brian Vinson for command post work and treasurer work, Adam Norlander for getting training organized, Tara Remely for all her work on the fish derby, and Mel Rice for grounds work and PR work. Many others are doing an outstanding job for the unit as well.
The meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM. Immediately following the meeting, member Jaime Trivette, presented a forty minute training on bear awareness and things to do while out in bear country. She also provided info on the best things to do during various types of bear encounters. She stated that bear spray is one of the best defenses if running into an aggressive bear. Jaime said when it comes to bear spray, make sure you wear it on your body in the same position so your find time is minimal. You want to have an automatic response when it’s time to use it. PRACTICE getting it out and pulling the trigger safety off. Bears are out and are numerous!!
Jaime had another great recommendation on bear spray storage. You should leave bear spray in your vehicle where the spray can reach extremely high temperatures or very cold temperatures. It has been documented that bear spray canisters have exploded under these extreme conditions. It has enough power to blow windows out and total your vehicle. Take care out there, “In the Business of Saving Lives”, your Beaverhead Search and Rescue.
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