Calling for Help

Kyoto: Hiking from Kibune to Kurama

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Accidents can happen to anybody. So even if you do everything right—plan well, take the 10 essentials, tell someone where you're going, and bring a first-aid kit—you still might find yourself, or your partner, in a situation where you need to get help.

Phone or radio. More and more people are carrying cell phones in the backcountry. No matter what your personal opinion on this trend, the fact is cell phones can save lives—and even if you're not carrying one, another hiker might be. So before you go, always know the local emergency number. (IMPORTANT: In some remote areas, cell phones do not work with 911. Always check with the local management agency before you hike.) To get help, you'll also need to know where you are, so if you've got a GPS, get your coordinates. If you have a map, know how to use it.

Three of anything is a generally recognized sign of distress. Blow on a whistle three times, then wait, then do it again. That'll alert anyone within earshot that you need help, and will help any rescuers who are looking for you to find you.

If you have to walk out to get help for a partner, tell everyone you meet that you need help, and give them a piece of paper containing your name, your partner's name, the coordinates of where your partner is waiting, and a description of what's wrong, including the time of the injury and vital signs. Try to have someone agree to stand watch over your partner while you go for help.

Build a fire. A smoky one is more visible from the air. A series of three fires might be recognized as a sign that you need help.

The color orange is also recognized as a plea for help. Many space blankets have orange backsides. Waving an orange hunter's hat or vest can also attract attention. But consider the background: If you are standing on orange sandstone, an orange hat might not be visible. You'd be better off with a contrasting color, like white.

Flares and firecrackers. I've known a couple of people who carried these. They're not exactly common backpacking items, but they'll sure get someone's attention.

Be sure that your position is visible from all directions. People have died waiting for help while sitting beneath trees that blocked the view of rescuers!

For using mirrors—and other ways to attract the attention of aircraft—check out Ground-to-Air Signals.