Tips and Basics

ALWAYS tell an adult where you are going!

Once you think you are lost, hug-a-tree
By staying in one place you are easier to find and won't risk injury travelling at night when it's difficult to see.

Always carry a whistle and covering
The whistle can be heard for quite some distance, and it can also help children feel safe by scaring away the night "sounds". Try to keep warm and dry by building yourself a nest, using a jacket or a bag or other protective clothes.

Your family will NOT be angry with you
Even adults get lost sometimes— so don't worry. No one will be angry.

Make yourself BIG to searchers
People are hard to see from helicopters when they are in the woods or wearing dark clothes. If you see or hear a helicopter AND there is a clearing near you, try to make yourself BIG: wave your hands or a jacket / bright bag (if you can), make a big X or an "SOS" with sticks and branches where possible.

Animals are afraid of humans
If you hear a noise at night,whistle or yell at it! If it is an animal it will run away and if it is a searcher you will be found!

You have hundreds of friends looking for you
Searchers will be calling your name— they are NOT angry, they just want to find you! Don't be afraid to let them know where you are!

Parents:

A bit of prevention
It is important to teach children to stay ON the trails. Never let them walk the trails alone. Teach them to look behind them frequently—the trail looks very different from the opposite direction! Teach them to identify prominent landmarks, sun direction, etc to help them stay oriented.

Top of Page

Footprint your child
Place aluminum foil on top of a soft folded towel and have your child step on the foil. This will create an impression which may be useful to searchers in identifying the correct shoes (or feet!) to track.

Call for help right away
If your child is lost don't wait—the search area becomes larger the longer you wait to bring in expert assistance. Weather is also a factor so it's always best to err on the side of caution. Searchers are trained for this and even a false alarm is important practice.

Be available for interviewing
Clues that lead to finding a lost child quickly usually come from family and friends who remain on scene and talk openly and accurately with officials who respond to the search. Keep in mind that any and all information may be useful!