What to do if you are lost

Being lost is unsettling, but most people who get lost are found, often quickly. The most important thing is to stop moving and think clearly before you act.

Stop, think, observe, plan

Stop. Sit down. Drink some water and eat something if you can. Panicked walking makes things worse.
Think. When did you last know exactly where you were? How long ago, and roughly which way have you walked since?
Observe. Look around for anything you can match to a map: hills, rivers, roads, power lines. Listen for traffic, water or voices.
Plan. Decide on one clear course of action, then stick to it.

Try to call for help

If you have any signal, call your local emergency number (112 in Europe and many other countries, 911 in North America). Even with no signal on your own network, an emergency call may connect through another one. If calls fail, try a text. Move to higher, open ground if it's safe and nearby, as signal is often better there.

Should you stay or move?

Usually, stay put if:

someone knows your route and when you're due back
anyone is injured, very tired or cold
it's dark, foggy or the weather is bad
you have no idea which way to go

Rescuers search planned routes first, and a still person is easier to find than a moving one.

Consider moving only if nobody will raise the alarm, you're confident of a safe direction, or staying is clearly dangerous, such as rising water or no shelter in bad weather.

If you decide to move

Go back towards the last known point if you can.
Follow a clear line, like a path, stream or valley downhill, but avoid steep drops and gorges.
Leave a sign at your starting spot showing which way you went, such as an arrow made of stones.
Mark your route as you go.

If you stay

Find or make shelter from wind and rain, close to an open area.
Make yourself visible: bright clothing spread out, a large X on the ground.
Use a whistle: six blasts, a pause of a minute, then repeat.
Save phone power. Use low power mode and check for signal every half hour or so.

Children

Teach children to "hug a tree" if they get lost: stay in one place, stay visible and answer anyone calling their name. Make sure they know rescuers are friendly and they won't be in trouble.

Stay positive

Keep warm, keep busy and keep hydrated. Plan small tasks. A calm mind makes better decisions.

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