The best way not to get lost is to know at all times where you are. Before you start out, mark the route of your hike on a map and then study the map to become familiar with the countryside. Find your destination on the map. What landmarks should you be able to see as you are walking?
Pay attention while you are hiking. Notice the direction you are going. Watch for hills, streams, valleys, buildings, and other landscape features. If you have a map and compass, use them to pinpoint your location. Look back over your shoulder often to see how your route will look on your way back.
One day-even though you know all of the safety rules-you might wan- der off a trail and not be able to find it again. Or, you might take a wrong turn and not know which way to go. If you think you are lost, stop and follow these STOP steps:
Stay calm.
Sit down and have a sip of water and a bite of food. If you are cold, pull on a jacket or sweater. Breathe slowly and steadily. .
Think.
Try to remember how you got where you are. Get out your map and see what you can learn from the symbols and contour lines.
Observe.
Look for your footprints in loose and muddy earth or in the snow. Look around for landmarks that might give clues about your location.
Plan.
If you are fairly sure of a route that will take you to a known location, move carefully. If you have a compass, use it to set a bearing in the direction of your destination. In case you need to find your way back, mark your route well with broken branches, piles of stones, or whatever else is handy.
However, if you have no idea where you are or which way to go, stay put. People will start looking for you as soon as someone realizes you are missing. Help searchers find you. The universal distress call is any signal repeated three times. Three shouts, for instance, or three blasts on a whistle. A smoky fire in the daytime and a bright fire at night might also attract attention. For smoke, toss grass or green leaves on the flames. Spread your rain gear and bright-colored equipment in the open to catch the eye of a rescue pilot, or flash a mirror in the direction of aircraft. Make yourself comfortable. Pitch a tent if you have one, or find shelter against a rock or under a tree. Use what you find in your pack and pockets to stay warm and dry. Hang a T-shirt or some other bright object in a branch above you so that searchers can spot your location even if you are sleeping. Finally, try not to worry too much. You will survive for several days without water and for several weeks without food. Stay put and stay calm. You will be found.