Get Lost, Stay Found - Outdoor Adventure Tips for Solo Adventurers
Outdoor Adventure Tips for Solo Adventurers
By Randy Brown, Penticton District Search and Rescue (SAR), British Columbia- Plan before heading out on your solo adventure and share your plan with family or friends, along with a schedule to send them updates.
- Don't fall into the trap of being over confident. Be ready with alternate routes in case you have to turn back due to accident or weather.
- Be prepared with the essential gear to help you communicate if an unexpected situation arises. Ensure you have a whistle, compass and a GPS communication device that works beyond cellular networks, such as a SPOT X Satellite Messenger. Pack something reflective or bright red/orange.
- Remain calm if an emergency does occur. For instance, if you become lost, stop, regain your composure and honestly ask yourself if you have the skills and abilities to move forward.
- If you are injured and you can safely move, find a location where you are visible from both land and sky so rescuers can spot you.
- Know when to call in assistance. If the situation is beyond your capabilities drop your ego and dial 911 if you have cellular service or hit the SOS button on your SPOT device if you are beyond cellular.
“As a SAR Manager and a lover of the outdoors, I like many Canadians are feeling restrained. We are social animals and want to resume some sense of normalcy. If you're an outdoor enthusiast - with parks and trails being closed you can't wait to get outside. All we (SAR) ask is that everyone try to be mindful of what they are doing and take some essential steps to be safe and let someone know where they are going.
As the social distancing measures are relaxed - SAR Teams are expecting to see an increase in calls and we are preparing accordingly. Be Safe Be Smart.”
Randy Brown
Penticton District Search and Rescue, British Columbia
As the social distancing measures are relaxed - SAR Teams are expecting to see an increase in calls and we are preparing accordingly. Be Safe Be Smart.”
Randy Brown
Penticton District Search and Rescue, British Columbia