How to not get lost, and what to do if you do

90% Prevention, 10% Cure

• Prevention: Think of these things when a trip to prevent getting lost.

  • Buddy System
  • Several or all participants have a map & compass.
  • Everyone knows route, surrounding area
  • Hike plan submitted to a leader at home
  • Be alert. Note landmarks. Don't blindly follow heels of person in front of you.
  • Check map often. Be involved.
  • Group stops at every intersection to make sure all are together and to agree on which way to turn.
  • Adult leader at rear, Boy hike leader in front. Nobody passes the hike leader or gets behind the adult leader.

Cure: If you do get lost, think of these things

• Stay put.
• Stay calm
• Shout
• Smokey fire daytime/ bright fire at night
• Travel only if you must:
  • If weather or health mean you won't survive the wait. No shelter available.
  • If nobody knows where to look for you.
  • Travel in a straight line in the direction most likely where you'll find a way out; toward a road or river.