How to Find Lost Hikers
When a hiker begins to realize that he or she has become lost, there is initially a sense of panic. Many times, the first impulse is to rush back to the trail located just over the hill, around the bend or through a stand of trees. However, this thinking seldom proves true or beneficial and typically results in the hiker moving farther from the true point of rescue. Locating hikers who have become lost is tedious and time consuming due to the many possible scenarios that must be addressed.
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Things You'll Need
- Two-way radios
- Map
- Compass or GPS locator
- Whistles or flares
- Packs with food, water, extra clothing, flashlights and first aid and basic survival equipment
Instructions
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1
Determine the intended plan for the hiker or group that has become lost. Consult with local ranger stations or park offices as to any permits or plans on file. Talk with anyone who reported the missing hikers to obtain clues or hints as to the hikers' plans.
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2
Locate the car or means of transportation to the trailhead. If a car was driven, check for clues as to intended plans or trails to be taken. If public transportation was used, as in a park setting, consult with the driver or other passengers who may have overheard the hikers' plans.
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3
Coordinate with others involved in the search. If radios are available, make sure all are on the same frequency. Use the radios for necessary communication only, and keep in mind that line of sight greatly affects the transmission distance of the radios.
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4
Consult a map and determine a search pattern. If multiple individuals or groups are available for the search, make a plan of attack. For example, have one group move down the main trail, a second group to the left of the trail and another to the right. Have each group use a compass or GPS locator to maintain the search pattern. Coordinate movements, keep in contact as much as possible and arrange in advance for communication signals such as whistles or flares.
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5
Call out the names of the lost hikers or blow a whistle one time every several minutes. Keep in mind that sound travels a great distance in the field. If the search continues at night, shine high-power lights up and through the air to act as beacons that may be seen by the lost hikers. Make sure each search group is carrying food, water, extra clothing, and first aid and basic survival gear in their packs so that the search teams are as prepared as possible to help the hikers when they are found.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure to include as many people as possible in the search effort. Coordinate all efforts and above all else, inform local authorities before beginning a search.
Failure to establish proper search communication or means of contact can result in members of the party themselves becoming lost.
