If you get lost

Many rescuers use the STOP rule (Stop, Think, Observe, Plan). The most common mistake is to keep walking "to see if I recognize anything." That is how a person lost 1 mile from the trail ends up 5 miles away.

1. Stop. Stop walking as soon as you suspect you are lost. Sit down, drink water, eat something. Panic burns energy and clouds judgment.
2. Think. When was the last time you were sure of your position? How long have you walked since then? Does anyone know your route?
3. Observe. Look for landmarks, the sun, the sound of a road or water. Check your phone: even without data, the GPS usually works without a signal. If you have one bar of signal, send a text message with your location; texts go through when a call will not.
4. Plan. Choose between two options: retrace your steps only if you are sure of the way, or stay put and make yourself visible. If someone knows your plan, staying is almost always better.

If you decide to stay

• Choose a clearing or a nearby open spot, visible from the air, out of dry streambeds and away from dead trees that could fall.
• Prepare signals before you need them: three of anything (three fires, three whistle blasts) is the international distress signal. Details in chapter 8.
• Build a shelter before dark (chapter 5). Nights in the backcountry cool off quickly, even in warm climates.
• Ration energy, not water: drink what you need and look for more (chapter 3).