To what 8-bit and Malevolence said, I would add that if your character is doing it in person, you may use Edge. The RG-rule "Lucky Duck" seems to be the only exception so far, but stands in the tradition of former SR-editions. What is now called Edge used to be a pool of Karma only usable for "rolls of fortunate chance" (i.e. "luck") Basically you can use your Edge to keep your friends alive.
This is why I (as a GM) would not allow my players to use Edge to keep equipment intact. Their is no karmic connection to equipment, neither should there be. I absolutely would extend this rule to dependents, relative, friends, contacts etc. of the character, if a connection was somehow enacted in the past. If you know the TV show "My Name is Earl", that's how I understand the basic concept of Karma in SR. It also explains, why "running for the people" will result in more karma for a run (although less money).
But this is purely my opinion.