⛰️ Lost in the wilderness: what to do, step by step
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Most mountain rescues start with a long route, bad weather or nightfall. Telling someone your route is what shortens a search the most.
Open the guide in the app (works offline)Step by step
| When you realize | Stop. Breathe, sit down and don't keep walking blindly: going further makes the search harder. |
|---|---|
| In the first few minutes | Check the map, compass or GPS and look for the last point you recognize. If you're not sure, go back the way you came. |
| If you can't find the trail | Call your local emergency number (112 in Europe, 911 in North America) with your coordinates (Maps section). If there's no signal, try from higher ground. Stay somewhere visible and sheltered. |
| If night falls | Don't walk in the dark. Get out of the wind, insulate yourself from the ground with your bag or branches and put on everything you're carrying. |
Before
- Leave someone your route, your return time and what to do if you don't come back.
- Carry the 10 essentials: map and compass, headlamp, sun protection, first aid kit, knife, lighter, emergency blanket, extra food and water, and extra warm clothing.
- Check the forecast and sunset time, and set a turnaround time even if you haven't reached your goal.
- Download the map of the area on your phone (Maps section) and carry a power bank.
During
- Mountain distress signal: 6 blasts, flashes or waves a minute, a one-minute pause, and repeat. The reply is 3 a minute.
- From the air, bright colors and movement are easier to see: spread out something colorful and wave your arms in a V (I need help).
- Save battery: call, give your coordinates and switch your phone off until the time agreed with the rescuers.
- Hypothermia: intense shivering, clumsiness and confusion. Dry clothes, warm layers, shelter and a warm drink if the person is conscious.
After
- Let whoever knew your route know you're safe, so they don't start a search.
What you need for this emergency
- Petzl Tikkina, headlamp
- Fox 40 Classic, whistle
- Bramble, 10 emergency blankets
- LifeStraw, personal filter
See the full kit: Evacuation go bag →
Figures and sources
- International mountain distress signal: 6 signals a minute (blasts, flashes), a one-minute pause and repeat; the reply is 3 a minute (International Commission for Alpine Rescue (IKAR-CISA))