Getting lost in the wilderness can be terrifying, and even the most experienced outdoorsmen can get stranded in unfamiliar terrain or inclement weather. In addition to being prepared for your expedition, there are several things you can do to ensure your safety and increase your chances of making it out alive if the occasion arises.
Even if you’ve taken all of the precautionary measures to avoid getting lost or stranded in the woods, it is equally as important to know how to respond and survive if you do end up lost. Follow these tips to increase your chances of survival and how to help rescuers find you.
Don’t Panic – When you realize you are lost, it can be difficult not to panic. Don’t waste precious energy wandering aimlessly, moving quickly, or having a nervous breakdown. Start by referring to your map and compass, locating the nearest road, town, or safe place to rest. Stay calm, drink plenty of water, make sure you’ve eaten, and you will be more likely to find your way out of the wilderness.
Stay Put – It may feel like resigning, but staying where you are may actually increase your chances of survival. If you continue to try to find your way out, you may wind up in a more desolate area or falling into a ditch, contradicting the efforts of rescuers. Try to find a safe, covered area to set up camp and stay where you are.
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Use your Signals – Safely start a campfire so that rescuers can follow the smoke to your location, write SOS on a nearby clearing with big sticks and rocks, shoot flare guns when planes fly by, and blow your whistle frequently throughout the day. If you make an attempt at helping rescuers find you, you’re more likely to be found, and taking an active role in your rescue can help curb some of the panicked feelings you may be experiencing. Other hikers may also hear your distress calls and lead you to safety or go get help.
Keep Important Items Close – Signals, matches, map and compass, cell phone, and flashlight should be carried on your person rather than in your pack. Your pack may be lost or damaged, but it is unlikely that you will lose your coat and your pants.
Try Your Cell Phone – Although it can be nearly impossible to find a cellular signal in the vast wilderness, it is always important to keep trying. Sometimes text messages can be sent even when calls are dropping.
Stay on a Trail – Trail markings can be confusing, and you may realize quickly that you’ve made a wrong turn and you’re on a trail you aren’t familiar with. Instead of wandering aimlessly into the woods, stay on that trail. It is more likely that other hikers will find you and will be able to help if you are on a designated trail. Trail intersections are good places to make camp, as there are more chances that someone will come across you.
Ration – Don’t use all of your supplies at once, as you don’t know how long it will be until help comes. Ration your supplies between the members of your party, or if you are alone, try eating small portions to make your food and water last.
Never give up hope. As long as people know you’re missing, help will be on the way. Use precautions and common sense to ensure your safety. Always plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the geography of the area you’ll be exploring. Journeying into the wilderness can be fun and exciting, but prepare ahead of time and learn to survive getting lost to make sure you have the best trip possible!
