If you become lost, keep calm, stay dry,
keep warm and stay put.
•
If it appears that you will need to spend
the night in the woods, build a campfire
to provide heat, light and comfort. A campfire will be
invaluable in locating you if
you have been reported missing. Aircraft may be used in
searching when
weather permits and smoky campfires may be spotted from
the air
•
If the weather is particularly cold or bad
and you must spend the night in the
woods, also build a small shelter using dead branches,
hemlock boughs and
leaves. The shelter will serve as a "cocoon"
and should be just big enough for you
to lie in comfortably. Set up camp before darkness falls.
•
If you feel you can try and find your way
out of the woods, remember that following streams downhill
will nearly always lead you back to signs of habitation.
•
Any person knowing you are overdue should
contact the New York State Forest
Ranger in the area of your trip.
•
In case of accident, at least one person
should remain with the injured person.
Know and use basic first aid techniques. Others in the
group should carefully note
the location and contact the local New York State Forest
Ranger.
