I've looked at using hydration carriers before, but never done it. It does have some merit for short range stuff.

For people thinking about it, a liter is about 60 cubic inches.

I never understood the benefit of hydration carriers until I moved to AZ. Hydration bladders won't ever complete replace canteens or bottles but when you need hydration on the move or while working there is nothing better. Even over long distance treks, multiple day backpacking trips I use hydration bladders for all my water carrying needs with a nalgene bottle for mixing nutrition and drinks in. Initially I was worried about the durability of the bladders, but after using a single CamelBak bladder for a single wild land fire season without issues I am sold (other brands haven't faired as well, MSR's new bladder comes to mind)

Drop leg pouches are a PITA for most SAR work. They are uncomfortable and ride down with walking. Like Ironraven said, you WILL need suspenders.

Why not just wear bright colored clothing under your gear?

Click, just trust me.

My first reaction to seeing this pack was to flinch. It is LBT, and you are paying some for a name, but at least someone out there is doing MOLLE in colors that hurt the eye.

Most people who try dropleg rigs come to hate them. On another note, I recently trained with a guy who tried to dye a tan colored Camelbak pack black. It did not turn out well.

Hacksaw came across a vest vest while surfing tonight. it's not yellow but it can be ordered in hunter orange maybe it will work for you. couldn't get a picture downloaded but here is the web page.
http://www.specialforces.com/store/catalog/product_27264_OP_Survival_Vest.html

Nice find! I like that vest a lot. I wonder if the 'hidden holster' option could hold a Henry US Survival Rifle all packaged up...it may fit even without that option judging by the pictures.

There is a link to that company and vest in my previous post.

The hidden holster will not hold the henry rifle, but one would easily fit in the attached backpack.

How about the Camelbak Upland Strap vest? When I was an EMT we generally avoided fancy vests, clothing or jump bags with too many pockets for fear of being called a Ricky Rescue.

Just when I thought I'd seen everything...a Camelbak vest! I like that too.

I can see what you mean about being called Ricky Rescue...but I'd rather take the bad nickname and be known as the guy who had what was needed. I've only been a SAR volunteer for a month and I'm already building a reputation for having the kitchen sinks in every pocket.

Even when I consider myself unprepared I'm more prepared than at least one other person around me...and typically prepared enough for what I encounter.