This week’s survival tip is communication types, methods and importance. Communication before, during and after a trip should be considered essential.
Before you even begin your trip, it’s good to make a plan including information such as where you’re going, what you’re doing, when are you leaving and when you expect to get back. After you make your plan, give it to someone you trust who’s not going on the trip. If you don’t make it back by the time you had planned, the person you left it with will know that something may have gone wrong and can contact the authorities.
During your trip, communication between group members is a good way for everyone to have a safe and fun time. Simply talking to the members of your group while hiking allows you to make sure everyone is feeling comfortable on the hike, no one is hurt, everyone has enough water and no one is getting too tired. If you have to leave someone back at camp, or your group has to split up, two-way radios can be a great way to stay in communication over long distances.
If something were to happen and you or a member of your group were in need of rescue or medical attention, having the proper tools to signal rescue personnel can mean the difference between life and death. It’s good to have several signaling devices with you for different scenarios. During the day, a bright colored piece of clothing, a signal mirror or a whistle are all excellent choices. At night, a chemical glow stick, flashlight or a fire.
After you return from your trip, let the person with your trip plan know that you’re back. If you don’t, they might call the authorities, pulling them away from someone else who might need to be rescued.
Before your next trip make sure you have your plan created and the proper communication tools to stay safe.
Story By
Mitchell Quartz
outside@suunews.com
