From Deseret News archives:

BSA advises lost hikers to stay put

Also, carry flashlight, water, whistle and use the buddy system

Published: Wednesday, June 22, 2005 11:27 p.m. MDT
 |  E-MAIL | PRINT | FONT + - 
For hikers who find themselves lost in the woods, the Boy Scouts of America have one piece of advice — STOP.

"Stop, think, observe and plan," says Kay Godfrey, public relations director for the organization's Great Salt Lake Council.

When hikers realize they've become lost, the best thing to do is just stay put, Godfrey said. Doing so will give searchers a better chance of finding the missing person, in addition to allowing the hiker to conserve energy and stay better hydrated.

"If one finds himself disoriented, behind or alone, stop and hug a tree," he said. "Don't go anywhere."

Godfrey said hikers should then assess their situation and evaluate their supplies. Hikers should be equipped with a flashlight, whistle, water and other basic items.

Observing the surroundings, scanning for landmarks or possible trails is the next thing Godfrey said hikers should do.

"If you've ever taken the time to turn around while you're hiking, that trail looks mighty different," he said. "Become more and more observant. It might pay off and you might recognize things that you've passed."

Story continues below
Then hikers need to plan and be prepared to spend the night in the woods. Godfrey said hikers need to know that help is on the way, but lost hikers should build a small shelter nearby to stay warm and dry.

But even before these steps become necessary, he said, using the buddy system and taking other precautions can help prevent hikers from becoming lost.

"If you're a slow hiker, you're not going to want to be the last guy," he said. "You want to be the lead guy. It's easy to get spread out while hiking, but it's important to stay together."

Godfrey also said the buddy system is essential when traveling into the wilderness but cautioned adult leaders to consider the personalities of the children they choose to be partners.


E-mail: afalk@desnews.com

Comments

You can be the first to comment on this story.

previousnext

Latest comments

Florida No. 1, TCU 4 in AP Top 25

strap 'em up and let's play some football. This time next week, we'll know...

Oregon has lost twice. It's nice to think of them in the Rose Bowl against a...

Impacts of bridge discussed

I am so sick and tired of environmentalists making issues of everything. The...

I agree 100%. Thanks for saving me the time of having to type that out. A...

Sarah Palin is a smart conservative woman who loves this country. The Left...

BYU is ranked ahead of UTAH; BYU has more national respect than UTAH. And...

Organized religion has never worked, and it never will. It is just one big...

Florida No. 1, TCU 4 in AP Top 25

So the SEC is weak eh? well we will see alabama will be looking for revenge...

Great game this Saturday. Evenly matched teams with lots to prove, mainly...

Utah Utes whip SDSU

I am just impressed there are a few BYU fans who are not watching New Moon...

Advertisements