Getting Lost in the wild

Lost in the Woods

I know it couldn't happen to you...But that is what everybody who gets lost thinks.

How do hikers get lost?

There are many ways that a hiker can get lost in the woods or even lost on the trail. You may get caught out after dark. Taking shortcuts or wandering off the main trail can disorient the best hiker and you may not be able to find your way back on to the trail.

What are some precautions to take?

It's always a good idea to hike with a partner or a group of friends.

Do not separate from them.

Tell somebody else where you are going and when you expect to be back.

If you do get lost this person will be able to tell search and rescue teams the area you are in.

Wear something bright or take something with you that is bright and light colored. This will help to alert search and rescue teams to you and/or your location.

Plan your trip out on a map and use a compass if possible.

What to do if you are lost?

If you are lost, find an area that will make it easy for searchers to see you, mark this area with something bright and easily seen. Look around for shelter, something that will protect you from any weatherconditions that might happen before you are found. Be sure not to wander, you need to stay in that area the more you move around the harder it is on rescuers.

Try and stay warm by building a fire, this will also act as a beacon alerting rescuers to you.

Carry a whistle; the sound can travel for miles in the woods, so it could be your lifesaver to alert rescuers of your location. Even on short hikes you should always carry one.

Stay off of the cold ground, the ground can speed up the process of your body cooling down.

Try to find a close water source. You can go without food for a long time, but you cannot go without water.