Trouble can come at any time during a hike and expert hikers know this all too well. Hike survival stories dating back to the 19th century are good reading material for people keen on trekking according to someone representing the county sheriff department. He believes that most stupid situations can be prevented by being smart about the whole hiking activity and sticking with prescribed trails.
Venturing into the wilds and returning intact requires careful planning and preparation. A pocket knife along with a compass plus a flashlight and fire starter together with reserve foodstuffs and clothes in addition to a pair of shades and some maps as well as waterproof matches and a first aid set comprise the 10 must bring items on a hike.
Steel yourself to possible bad news. Unplanned nights in the wild will go better with a few additions to the basic items brought along specifically signal mirrors for some illumination bounced off sunlight plus a space blanket and a whistle according to search and rescue pros. Light moves fast so it does not take ages to communicate something. Authorities have been alerted on the whereabouts of hikers numerous times using the flash on their cameras. Even though whistles offer some help it is usually not that reliable as the sound it makes can be easily buried by woods noises.
Mobile phones are not fail safe devices when trouble arises but they do come in handy when trekking in areas like the front country as calls can be made rather easily in such an area. A search is often called as a result of a hiker following unmarked trails or taking shortcuts and accidentally or purposely getting lost. Territorial maps are not the easiest to read so if you do not know a lot about them sticking with the trails might be best. If overwhelmed by the situation one way to guarantee being found quickly is to stay in one place says people involved in search and rescue activities. It's natural to think that you can find your way out, but often it's easier for searchers to find a stationary target than a moving one.
STOP is a convenient acronym for what needs to be done in such situations. STOP if the situation is stressing you out. Ask yourself and THINK where the last place was that you were sure of your spot. By OBSERVING noticeable characteristics of the spot you may get hints to guide you where you need to be. You must PLAN what comes next. The plan could be staying put and getting some sleep if it is getting too dark. The main concerns in this situation include maintaining dryness and warmth. You can bring out the space blanket for this situation but if you forgot yours the tree branches and leaves also provide comfort.
Normal core temperature will stay that way by eating food if it is available. The best advice for kids when lost is to not leave their spot and just put their arms around a tree while awaiting rescuers according to search and rescue pros.
