TIPS
FROM BOB:
If You Find That You're Lost on One of Your Adventures!
1. STAY PUT, Someone is going to miss you and come looking. They will know
the way out--you don't or you would not be lost. If you absolutely know
that no one will be looking or coming your way, try following a stream
or river (people usually live near water sources) or walk in a straight
direction of travel by picking a distant object to walk towards. Walk generally
downhill--DO NOT RUN! Save your strength.
2. STAY WARM and COMFORTABLE, Most deaths and injuries come from exposure
to the elements. If you discover that you're lost, stop what you're doing
and think through your situation. Again, don't run or waste any of your
body energy. You may need it to survive a cold night or several days without
food. Find shelter from the sun or cold. Avoid exposure to the elements.
3. START A FIRE, Start a fire if at all possible. A fire brings not only
warmth and comfort, but also acts as a signal. Either the light or smoke
will catch the attention of those looking for you.
4. STAY FINDABLE, Those who are looking for you will need your help in
finding your location. Don't make the mistake of being hidden. (If you're
in a cave, a spotter from a plane will never see you). Make an "X" in the
snow or with rocks on the ground. Or, if you have spare clothing, spread
it out so it can be seen. Try to be out in the open if conditions allow.
5. DON'T DEHYDRATE, You can go a long time without food, but you can only
go a few days without water. Snow can easily be a source of water, but
don't cool your body down internally with too much at a time. Dew in the
cool of the morning can also be a source. The underside of a tarp can collect
condensation even in the desert. Do try to keep your body’s moisture content
up.
No one ever really plans on being lost, but you can plan on having a few
essentials whenever you go adventuring. Tell someone where you're going.
Always have waterproof matches on you or in your gear. Always have an extra
sweater or jacket. Always have at least a pocket poncho or large garbage
bag for rain gear. A few basic essentials will give you the ability to
survive if by chance you do get lost. Finally, if you do become lost, plan
on being lost for several days.
Do enjoy this great world we have--it is full of adventure and beauty.
So until next time, have a great "Get Lost" adventure.
--Bob
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Note: We have done our best to give you some ideas on
what to do if you get lost; however, we will not give any guarantees that
everything will work out fine--adventuring can be dangerous. We hereby
explicate state that "we pass the buck on all liabilities associated with
this article." So if you get lost and they don't find you, or if you fall
and get hurt, you can’t hold us accountable!