“Ten Essentials” to take with you when camping–search continues for missing firefighter

On June 4th, nine days before Michael Herdman went missing the Sespe Wilderness area, Upper Ojai Search and Rescue posted on their Facebook page the ten

Michael Herdman

essentials to take when you go camping. Now they are engaged in attempting to locate the Arcadia Firefighter.  Mr. Herdman disappeared last Friday, June 13th while setting up camp with fellow firefighter, Taylor Byars.  Herdman’s dog, a 50-pound Viszla named Duke, ran out of camp.  Herdman and Byars went after the dog and were separated in the search.  They were deep in the back country.  As of this posting Herdman has not been found.  His backpack was recovered and human footprints were spotted.  Searchers also discovered a marijuana grow, which is not uncommon as the crop is harvested in August, and raised in isolated areas.  Grows can be owned by drug cartels.  However authorities believe that Mr. Herdman was not a victim of foul play and hold out hope the firefighter will be located unharmed.

You can check the search status on the Upper Ojai Search and Rescue Facebook Page: HERE

Mr. Herdman’s circumstances did not afford him time to take anything he may have brought with him before getting separated from his companion.  However,

Map of Search Area for missing firefighter

when out camping please consider bringing these – Ten Essentials – with you.

1. Navigation (map and compass – GPS with extra batteries)
2. Sun protection (sunglasses and sunscreen)
3. Insulation (extra clothing)
4. Illumination (headlamp/flashlight) with extra batteries
5. First-aid supplies
6. Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candles)
7. Repair kit and multi-tools or knife
8. Nutrition (extra food)
9. Hydration (extra water/filter)
10. Emergency shelter

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