If you do become lost, stay where you are. Build a fire and carefully assess the situation. Do not use precious energy by wandering aimlessly.

During the winter months use game trails to help you avoid walking in deep snow. Frozen streams and rivers are also easy to follow, but watch for ice slab.

MEASURING DISTANCE

When measuring distance is the most efficient method and system consistency rate:

1 pace = 75 cm (29.25 in)
1 double rate = 150 cm or 1.5 m (58.5 in)
66 steps double = 99 m (107.9 yards) = 1 matches (tie a knot in a string for each tally)
= 10 corresponds to 1000 m or 1 km (0.62 mi)

DIRECTION FINDING

Using a Compass
(Note: When using a compass coast in British Columbia, will read 22 degrees east of true north. More time should be allowed to read a gate during the winter months because it takes more than the needle for end swinging.)

A magnetic type Sylva Compass is the best friend of a lost hiker. First, decide which direction you want to order over the center and then follow your compass to the bearing you want to follow and find a landmark on this sighting. After reaching this landmark repeat the process. Using this model will follow a relatively straight line.

Using Stars
For those who are unfortunate enough to have a compass, using the pole star for direction will be sufficient. Simply pole star will be located facing North. To find the stars use the constellation Ursa Major. Star pole will be located off the top of Poland “, opposite the handle.

Using Sunday
You may also use, you watch the sun to determine direction. Point the other hours direct sunlight and then cut the angle between the other two hours and lunch. This imaginary line will run north / south.

METHODS OF NAVIGATION

There are three common ways of navigation:

1. Map reading is a common method used, particularly in developed areas. Maps and aerial photos can be used when the landmarks are clear.

2. Using a compass in conjunction with maps and aerial photographs is wise in areas without good landmarks.

3. Navigation by dead reckoning is common in areas where landmarks are missing or inadequate. This method combines the plotting and recording a series of courses, measured by distance and direction from a starting point.

* It is important to stay alert and observe all unusual landmarks.

Difficulties may arise in shipping for several reasons. Some of these include

When You’re Lost In The Woods

The most important thing to remember, if you are in this situation is not to panic. First, treat any injuries within the party. Next, to determine that your basic needs are met. These include heat, shelter, water and food. Then consult the map and compass and try to recognize or remember landmarks may have passed.

To determine how many hours of daylight left, facing the sun and extend your arm towards her. Bend your wrist inwards and place your fingers just under the sun. Notwithstanding the thumb, the number of how many separate fingers of the sun from horizon. Each finger will be fifteen minutes.

When darkness approaches, build a shelter and fire which is on high ground and out of the wind. Have a snack and a hot drink and to rest. Do not waste precious energy by trying to find your way in darkness.

During daylight hours, it is important to find a way to signal to others. A fire is best. Make sure to find a means of transporting water. If you must move to leave the markers are looking for may follow.

SIGNALS

A fire is the safest method to use when signaling for help. Smoke is easily spotted during the day and fire by night. Three fire signal provided by 30 meters (98 feet) apart and ignited when an aircraft passes is a good way to show your distress. Morse emergency signal is S. .. O. .. S. .. and can be sent with a light and consists of three points, followed by three dashes, followed by three points. Hyphens should be twice as long as points. Messages or signal points can be drawn in the snow. A signal mirror is also a very effective method used. Flash mirror along the horizon whether a plan is in view.