How to avoid becoming a missing hiker statistic

Not returning from a hiking trip is typically something we don’t think much about before venturing out. In fact the thought of getting lost or dying on a hike is a scary prospect and one that can give anyone the chills but it’s something that we need to think seriously about before any adventure we head out on. On the Appalachian Trail alone, since 1974 there have been 11 murders. On average approximately 3 people go missing on the Appalachian Trail every year and some of them have never been found to this day.

There are many factors that make hiking a dangerous activity such as the terrain, the wild animals, the weather and even other hikers that may be a danger, but if you understand and prepare for these dangers you can avoid becoming another missing hiker statistic.

Use the buddy system

If you are planning to go out on a hike; no matter if it’s just a day long hike or a week long adventure, always use the buddy system, never go it alone unless you are an avid and experienced hiker. In a survival situation, having more than one person to think up solutions and troubleshoot problems could mean the difference between life and death. Having a friend helps, not only with boosting morale if for instance you are lost, but they can quickly become a life saving medic if you become injured and multiple people provide warmth for one another while enduring a freezing cold night.  Each hiker brings with them different skills that could be an invaluable asset during an emergency on or off the trail. While one of you may be an excellent hunter or fire starter, the other might be skilled at reading a map or compass.

Leave a note

Before you venture out let people know where you are going, who will be with you, and when you plan to return. Give as many details as possible so that if something does happen and you don’t return when you said you would, they can send help and find you fast. Leave a note in your vehicle that is visible on the dashboard containing your names and crucial information about your hike, detailing where you plan to go and when you plan to return along with info about those in your hiking party. Leave behind a sock from each of the hikers, in the event of a severe emergency this will help guide sniffer dogs to your location fast.

Pack the right gear …light gear

If you are going on a day hike, bringing with you just a few basic essentials could mean the difference between life and death. We all know the old saying here in New England; “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes”. If your taking a longer hike, light packs are key but make sure they contain the essentials for survival especially in the event of an emergency.

Remember the rule of THREE when packing your gear …

In extreme conditions…

  • You can live 3 hours without shelter.
  • You can live 3 days without water.
  • You can live 3 weeks without food.

Here are a few essentials that are key in ensuring your safety out on the trail.

  • Fire starter (pack more than one, and in different locations … what if you loose your pack?)
  • Water (or water purification kit)
  • Food (pack light and pack things that are high in carbs and protein)
  • Rope
  • First aid kit
  • Mylar blanket
  • Compass
  • Whistle
  • Extra socks
  • Knife
  • Bear spray/weapon
  • Tent / sleeping bag
  • Warm clothes

If you get lost …STOP!

SIT  (sit down and calm down, get your bearings and your head about you before doing anything else)

THINK (think about your situation, think about your gear and the rule of three)

OBSERVE (look around, observe your surroundings and see what you have to work with)

PLAN (plan your next steps)

 You have a better chance of being rescued if you stay put!!!!

Would you like to learn hands on how to use a compass of you get lost? How to read a map or start a fire, these all look easy on those You Tube videos but have you ever tried with hands on methods? Book a survival instruction show today and put your skills to the ultimate test! Survive NOW … Panic Later!