A Blinded, Randomized, Palatability Study Comparing Variations of Two Popular Field Water Disinfection Tablets

Abstract

A retrospective analysis was performed on data available from RMRG for 2002 to 2008. Data points collected include number of calls, types of calls, location of calls, victim activity, rescue techniques used, and volunteer hours required. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and linear regression models.Results.-Injuries related to hiking and climbing activities were the most common activities requiring a search and rescue response. The types of activities associated with a response did not change significantly over time. The number of calls, types of calls, location of calls, and types of required rescue did not change significantly over the study period. Limited medical data were available for collection.Conclusions.-The prevalence and nature of calls to RMRG did not change over time. These data are valuable for assessing volunteer training program requirements, and for assessing necessary evacuation and medical equipment needs for the near future. Improving medical data collection may be beneficial to better plan for future medical emergencies.