#United States #Ashland #Search and Rescue #Minus33 Merino Wool #Patient Warming Kits

Minus33 Expands Search and Rescue Donation Program

In a remarkable move to bolster efforts in emergency rescue operations, Minus33, a family-owned brand specializing in merino wool apparel, has announced a significant expansion of its Search and Rescue (SAR) donation program. Previously, this initiative included only Minus33 products, but now it officially accepts merino wool base layers from any brand, further empowering search and rescue teams across the United States.

Founded by a team of textile engineers from L.W. Packard & Co., Minus33 has built a reputation for crafting high-quality merino wool apparel that withstands the test of the elements. The company embarked on the SAR initiative back in 2017 after learning that local SAR volunteers were often giving up their own gear to keep injured individuals warm while awaiting medical attention. Recognizing the vital importance of warmth during these critical moments, Minus33 developed a program aimed at repurposing gently used merino wool into life-saving patient warming kits.

As of today, Minus33 distributes these essential kits to over 200 partner organizations, including mountain rescue teams and state wildlife agencies. This widespread reach ensures that first responders are equipped with a head-to-toe warming base layer system when treating patients in emergency situations.

Lawson Glidden, president of Minus33, highlighted the reliability of wool in the great outdoors, stating, "A hundred years of working with wool teaches you one thing: wool is always reliable and dependable, just like our dedicated first responders." By expanding the initiative to include any merino base layer that meets their criteria, Minus33 effectively harnesses its expertise to enhance the safety of individuals in backcountry emergencies.

Unlike synthetic materials, merino wool offers unique properties that make it preferable for outdoor survival situations. Its ability to retain warmth even when wet is crucial for rescuers and patients alike, ensuring that body temperature remains regulated in the critical moments between rescue operations and medical recovery. This functionality makes merino wool an essential base layer for mountaineers and wilderness first responders.

As demand for these SAR kits has surged, the Minus33 team is ramping up production capacity. Jaime Bernard, president of Pemigewasset SAR from Northwestern, New Hampshire, expressed gratitude for the program, emphasizing, "Every SAR kit gives us a better chance of bringing someone home alive. Merino wool helps prevent hypothermia in rescued individuals during life-threatening situations. We're thankful to Minus33 for their generous donations and for expanding this program."

Consumers interested in contributing to this vital initiative can easily participate by requesting a free shipping label to donate any base layers that contain at least 50% merino wool. Donated items are sent to Minus33's facility in Ashland, New Hampshire, where they undergo inspection, cleaning, and minor repairs before being included in a SAR kit. As a token of appreciation, donors receive a 25% discount towards their next Minus33 purchase. Items that are deemed damaged are recycled to minimize waste. Additionally, the company sources materials from factory seconds and quality-tested returns, ensuring that no usable garment goes to waste.

For more information on how to donate, support, or request a SAR kit, interested individuals can visit the official Minus33 website at minus33.com/sar-program. Through this compassionate and practical initiative, Minus33 is making a substantial impact on the safety and effectiveness of search and rescue operations, demonstrating the incredible potential of community support in lifesaving efforts.