Nature and water
Stranded in the desert or in a car in the heat
Your car breaks down on an isolated road in the heat, as in the desert.
Do this nowTap each step when done
- 1Stay with the car. It gives shade and it's what rescuers look for.
- 2Call for help at 911, by call or text, with your location.
- 3Make yourself visible: hood open, colored cloth on the antenna, big X on the ground.
- 4Make shade outside: tarp from the roof to the ground. Sit off the ground.
- 5Drink when you're thirsty, in sips. Ration your sweat, not your water.
- 6Cover up: long sleeves, hat, cloth on your neck.
- 7Leave a note on the dashboard: date, time, problem, and how many of you.
Don't
- Don't walk at midday to look for help.
- Don't shut yourself in the car in the sun.
- Don't wait in a dry creek bed: it floods without warning.
- Don't drink radiator water or urine.
Have ready
- 1 gallon (3.8 L) per person per day, plus 5 gallons (19 L) in reserve.
- Separate water for your pets.
- Tarp, signal mirror, whistle, and flashlight.
- Spare tire, compressor, and paper map.
Key factIf you truly must walk: at night and along the road.
More detail
Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 12 · Desert
