Each year, a few hunters get lost in the woods. Most escape no worse than tired, chilled and hungry, but the hazards of being lost in the outdoors should never be underestimated. For that reason, the Idaho Fish and Game recently published 10 lifesaving precautions and preparations to follow—regardless of location—to survive unexpected situations when afield.
1—Know the area you're hunting
Always be conscious of your surroundings, prominent points and river or creek drainages. Occasionally turn around and look behind you so you know what it looks like when coming back. If you’re on a trail, don’t hesitate to put a temporary marker at intersections. Things can look different on your return—especially in the dark.
2—Do not rely solely on electronics
Devices like GPS, cell phones and two-way radios are handy, but dead batteries, malfunctions and limitations can render them useless. A map and compass are less likely to fail, but you must know how to use them.
3—Tell someone your plans and set a check-in time
Often hunters are out longer than expected, especially when they are pursuing big-game animals far from a road. Set an absolute deadline and communicate it to a friend or loved one you trust so they can alert authorities if you have not returned or contacted someone by that time. Same goes for your hunting partner. Hunters often get separated, so set up a rendezvous time and place and decide in advance when a third party will seek help if you or your partners do not return in time.
4—Watch for extreme weather changes
You’re more likely to get lost or turned around in poor visibility when it’s raining, foggy or snowing—conditions that make being lost in the woods more hazardous. Cold, wet weather can mean the difference between an uncomfortable situation and a life-threatening one.
Remember even on clear days temperatures can change dramatically. A warm, sunny afternoon can quickly drop to subfreezing after dark, and daily temperature swings of 30 to 40 degrees are fairly common during fall.
5—Dress or carry clothes for the worst weather you’re likely to encounter
It’s also common to quickly go from warm and sunny to raining or snowing. Dressing in layers is a good way to respond to weather changes, and wearing a daypack allows you to stash clothes when they’re not in use, yet keep them handy when needed.
Avoid cotton clothing, which is comfortable when dry, but provides no warmth when wet. Modern, synthetic fabrics will insulate—even when damp or wet—and typically dry faster. They are more comfortable in nearly all conditions than cotton. Wool is also better than cotton, and modern merino wool is itch-free and comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.
6—Be prepared to build a fire
Whether it’s matches, a lighter, or other device, carry a fire starter that’s weatherproof; it’s good to have a backup. Know how to start a fire in all weather conditions, but remember cold weather doesn’t end wildfire season, so never leave a fire that’s not completely extinguished.
7—Bring a flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries
They’re valuable for navigating in early mornings or after dark and keep you from getting lost, as well as just being handy for a variety of purposes.
8—If you get lost, warmth, shelter and water should be your top priorities
You can go days without food, but staying warm and hydrated are critical to survival. You’re not going to starve if you’re out longer than anticipated, although it’s never a bad idea to carry extra food with you. Commercial survival kits provide most of the essentials, but many are overkill, so don't carry more than you will likely need.
Think about exactly what you would want for an extended stay in the woods and always keep those items with you. If you get lost, admit it to yourself and prepare to spend the night out. Build a fire for warmth and set up shelter. Wandering around will make it harder for search-and-rescue personnel to find you. It also fuels anxiety, preventing you from thinking clearly and making good decisions.
9—Don’t forget your vehicle and ATV
Have your vehicle ready for the backcountry and prepared for minor breakdowns, such as flat tires or dead batteries. A separate survival kit for your vehicle is a good idea.
10—Keep a dry set of clothes in your vehicle
This isn’t necessarily a survival matter, but being soggy and wet can range from uncomfortable to miserable. Changing into warm, dry clothes for the drive back to home or to camp is a big bonus for very little effort.
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