Preparedness

Required Gear and Items for C.R.E.S.T. Members
(See the Membership page for all membership requirements).

1. At least one firearm OR access to one, if legally able (members are not required to own a handgun). Conforming to charter weapon and ammunition guidelines is strongly suggested but not mandated.

2. Each C.R.E.S.T. member will keep ready, a minimum 200 rounds of ammunition.  Members are not required to keep the ammunition at home but to have ready access to it.

3. Spare magazines  Should total a minimum of 40 rounds. For example: Four 10/round magazines, or two 20/round magazines.

4.  A pack or small carrying bag (bug out bag)

5. Pocket knife

6. Small flashlight

7. Compact binoculars

8. First aid kit

9. Personal hygiene items such as soap and toothbrush

10. Two days supply of water and non-perishable food.

11.  Other recommended useful items (not required) are:
waterproof matches; lighter; needles and thread; fishing line, hooks &
sinkers; water filtration system/purification tablets; compass; entrenching tool; gun cleaning equipment; spare gun parts; helmet; field jacket; 3 pairs of socks; poncho; fixed blade knife; batteries; toilette paper, small am/fm pocket radio with earphone.
(See the Recommended Bug Out Bag Contents section on this page for more suggestions.

11. A C.R.E.S.T. organization DOES NOT train-in or use military battle dress uniforms during regular C.R.E.S.T. functions.  However all members are required to purchase an
emergency BDU that is universal to their Chapter or per guidelines stipulated by the National Council. Each C.R.E.S.T. member is encouraged (but not required) to purchase another emergency BDU of the same size to be reserved for a new member.

The first financial goal of every C.R.E.S.T. Chapter should be to warehouse enough
emergency uniforms and insignia to cover double their membership.
C.R.E.S.T. organizations may use member dues to fund the uniform and insignia
purchases, eliminating the need for new members to come up with a larger sum.
(Membership dues is $7.00 per month and is paid into the local Chapter treasury). This website does not collect dues although we may later accept donations.

The United States Flag emblem patch will be sewed on the left shirtsleeve of all uniforms. All uniforms will be imprinted U.S. Militia with state abbreviation over the left shirt pocket. For example: U.S. MILITIA-NV if your organization resides in Nevada. Member names are printed above the right shirt pocket ONLY if the emergency system is activivated.

12. One major function of the C.R.E.S.T. is to be preparing for natural disasters and civil unrest and to provide security for their communities during and after such events. Therefore, all organizations must have a universal method that identifies members as private security. A full uniform is not required but a single cap, shirt, vest and/or jacket with the word "SECURITY" imprinted plainly for the public will suffice. The uniform that is adopted is determined by each individual organization. Also, “C.R.E.S.T.” may be printed on the front of a jacket with member name.

13.   A minimum of one night vision device should be kept by each team (see charter & bylaws for details).

14. Each team member should have a minimum of one hand held radio universally used by the team and organization.

15. Members are encouraged to have access to a video camera for video-surveillance activities aimed at curbing crime.