Wandering off into the wilderness has a great appeal, but the fear of getting lost can hold some people back from truly giving in to their inner explorer. It can be easy to lose your way in the woods, and knowing how to deal with getting lost can literally mean the difference between survival and death. Here are some useful tips to keep your cool if you find yourself off the trail.
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so your first step is learning how to avoid getting lost. Becoming familiar with how to read a map and compass is an invaluable skill. You can’t count on electronic devices working out on the middle of nowhere so GPS may not save you. Researching your hike beforehand is another way to start off on the right foot. If your guidebook is older, cross reference with some more up to date resources. Wearing bright colored clothing can help rescuers spot you from the air, and carrying an emergency whistle is a good way to attract attention if needed.
Learn to STOP: Stop, Think, Observe, and Plan.
Stop! If you think you’ve gone off your path, resist the temptation to go further. You only risk getting deeper into trouble. Think, observe, and plan: Stay calm! Give yourself time to get oriented. Take a good, long look around. Get to higher ground if needed so you can better spot landmarks. Don’t rush through reading your map. A carefully thought out plan will yield better results than flying headlong into what could be the wrong direction. Assess what’s around you – rocks, trees, streams. Even taking the weather into account can help you formulate a good plan.
Sometimes, your best option is to stay right where you are. If night is falling you might be better served by camping out. Fumbling through unfamiliar territory in the dark is not going to help you find your way. Don’t sleep on bare ground. Use your equipment as a buffer between you and the earth, or make bedding from branches or other items you can forage. It’s survival you need to focus on, not comfort. Likewise, if you have been successful in calling for aid and you know help is coming, don’t move. Your rescuers will have more difficulty if you try to “help” by attempting to meet them.
Meanwhile, do your best to stay hydrated and calm. Keeping your wits about you and sticking to your plan can get you back on track. Plus, you’ll have a cool story to share once you get home.
Images via Calsidyrose, jalbertbowdenii
