How to Find the Way Out of Woods

A peaceful day in nature can turn terribly wrong if you suddenly find yourself lost. With a little bit of knowledge and a few basic skills, it is possible to find your way out of the woods. Use the tips below and teach them to your children, and maybe someday it will come in handy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Use the common distress signal. This is usually three short blasts on a whistle. Since chances are you won't have a whistle while in the woods, a three short screams or yells can also work. Try to get someone in the vicinity's attention; do not be embarrassed that you are lost.
2. Follow water. Follow along the path of a creek or river. Not only does this keep you moving in the same direction, it also improves the chances of finding another person. You may run into someone canoeing, fishing or hiking. Also, towns are often near creeks or rivers.
3. Walk straight in one direction. Don't make any turns which can take you in circles, or make you even more lost altogether.
4. Mark your starting point well. This can help you find the place where you stared easily. You may need to return, or you may want to avoid walking in directions. It also helps someone else know you were there. Mark the area well enough to be able to see it from a bit of a distance.
5. Maintain your sense of direction without a compass. Use a wristwatch and hold a stick perpendicular straight above it. Halfway between where the shadow is cast and the 12 on your watch is North, at all times of the day.