“If ye are prepared ye shall not fear” – DON’T PROCRASTINATE Why? This blog is to help you in preparing for an emergency It also contains other information that you might find spiritually up-lifting This is not an official website of “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” This site is maintained by Barry McCann (barry@mailcom) Wednesday, June 5, 2019 How to Survive Getting Lost While Hiking Spread the love You’ve likely heard the story of Amanda Eller, the hiker in Maui who went missing and was later rescued after 17 days Because she had only intended to take a quick walk, she did not bring her cell phone or any other supplies with her

Sure, she made some mistakes but the story is a remarkable one, as she kept her wits about her during her ordeal.

Her strong will to survive kept her alive in the jungle for 17 days On the other hand, we’ve also heard about other hikers who have not been as fortunate A hiker in the Appalachian Trail, Geraldine Largay, survived for 26 days before she died

Although she did have camping equipment with her, rescuers were unable to find her in time.

There two stories illustrate how things can go wrong even in a simple hike No matter how well you may have planned, you can still end up lost The key is getting as prepared as possible, and knowing what to do in advance, in case you do get lost

Bring your gear, even if it’s a short hike Experts recommend bringing a small day pack with gear with you even if you are just going for a quick hike.

Such items include: fully charged cell phone water purification tablets/ personal water filter food bars blanket whistle If you have a GPS device, bring that as well

Check the weather before you head out, so you know what to expect.

If possible go with a companion, but if not, let someone know where you will be hiking and when you will be returning Wear weather appropriate clothes, and comfortable but sturdy shoes While hiking, stop and rest when you feel tired

Don’t push yourself to exhaustion.

Drink enough water and watch for signs of heat stroke If you are hiking during the hottest hours of the day (between 10 am and 4 pm) find a shady spot to rest Do not ignore any symptoms your body may be showing – take care of any issues before they get worse What to do if you get lost In spite of the best laid plans, you may find yourself lost The National Forest Service recommends the following acronym: “S-T-O-P” S – Stop

When you realize you are lost, don’t panic.

Calm down – sit down and get your bearings Stay put T – Think Consider what’s around you and the last time you remembered where you are Which direction did you come from? Do not move until you have a good reason to do so O – Observe Look at your map or compass and try to figure out where you are on the trail

Look at any signs and landmarks.

If you are on a trail, stay on it What time is it – is it starting to get dark? Assess the weather and possible shelter in the area P – Plan

Try and make a plan on how you will survive.

If you have no specific route in mind, stay put If it is getting dark, can you make a fire and stay warm? If you are feeling exhausted or are injured, stay in place If you have your cell phone, try to reach someone for rescue If you cannot make a call, try to send a text Get to a clearing that is visible from above, where you can be seen by rescuers Keep yourself hydrated

No one ever plans to get lost.

But knowing the possibility that it can happen to you can help you mentally prepare yourself at