How to Survive When Lost

Being lost may be terrifying, but taking the right actions can save your life. Don't panic and you should be alright. Instead of wandering, which is likely to get you even more lost, take steps that will help others find you. Here's how to survive when lost:

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Stay where you are! Wandering will make it harder to find you. Even with absolutely no food, hunger doesn't become a serious issue for three to five days. Preserve your food as best you can and camp out near water if possible.

2. Find shelter; you'll need protection from the elements. Create a blanket from forest debris (e.g., leaves) during warmer months. In extreme cold, dig a small hole in the snow to save your life. Smaller burrows stay the warmest.

3. Use the number "3" to call for help. It's an international distress signal. Build 3 fires or whistle 3 times. Draw an arrow in the terrain pointing toward where you are. Also leave bright objects where they'll be visible to a search team.

4. Be prepared in advance. Start by always hiking with a friend. Plot out water sources and campsites along your trek, and then make a copy of your itinerary. Always give this to someone you trust in case of an emergency.

Resources

• Watch "Man vs. Wild" Online
• Bushcraft Skills and How to Survive in the Wild
• A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants
• SAS Survival Handbook: How to Survive in the Wild - On Land or at Sea