Guide · First steps

STOP: Stop, Think, Observe, Plan

The moment you realise you're lost or in trouble is when people make their worst decisions. STOP is a simple way to slow down and think before you act.

S — Stop

Stand still. Sit down if you can. Don't keep walking in the hope that things will look familiar soon — that's how a small problem becomes a big one. Have a drink and a snack if you have them. Take a few slow breaths, breathing out longer than you breathe in.

T — Think

Ask yourself some plain questions:

• Where was the last place I was sure of?
• How long ago was that, and which way did I come?
• Does anyone know where I am and when I'm due back?
• Is anyone hurt?
• What do I have with me — water, food, clothing, phone, torch, whistle?

Don't guess wildly. If you don't know, admit it to yourself.

O — Observe

Look around properly.

• Weather: is it getting colder, darker, wetter or windier?
• Daylight: how long until sunset? Plan to have shelter sorted before dark.
• Terrain: are there landmarks, paths, streams, power lines, roads or buildings you can see or hear?
• Hazards: cliffs, fast water, unstable ground, rising tide.
• People: check everyone in your group. Notice who is cold, tired or scared.

Check your phone for signal and battery. If you have signal, call your local emergency number (112 in Europe and many other countries, 911 in North America) or send your location to someone who can help.

P — Plan

Now decide what to do, and keep it simple.

1. Deal with any immediate danger or injury first.
2. Decide whether to stay where you are or move. In most cases, staying put and making yourself easy to find is the safer choice.
3. Sort out shelter and warmth, then water.
4. Set up a signal — something bright and visible, or a whistle ready to use.
5. If you do move, have a clear goal, mark your route and keep checking back against the plan.

Use it again

STOP isn't a one-off. Each time conditions change, or you feel panic rising, stop and run through it again. A few calm minutes now can save hours later.

This article is in the Grid Survivor app, searchable with no signal. Get the app · £4.99