What to do if You Get Separated from Your Group

If you get separated from your group while camping, it’s important to stay calm and take strategic steps to increase your chances of being found. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Calm and Stay Put

• Stop and Stay Calm: The first thing to do is to stop, breathe, and remain calm. Panicking can lead to poor decision-making.
• Stay in One Place: It’s generally best to stay where you are to increase the chances of being found by your group.

2. Signal for Help

• Whistle: If you have a whistle, use it to signal for help. Three short blasts is the universal distress signal.
• Shout: If you don’t have a whistle, shout at regular intervals.
• Fire and Smoke: If you’re carrying matches or a lighter, and it’s safe to do so, you can start a fire to create smoke signals.

3. Make Yourself Visible

• Bright Clothing: If you have brightly colored clothing or gear, use it to make yourself more visible.
• Reflective Items: Use mirrors, foil, or any reflective items to signal rescuers.
• Clear an Area: Clear a space around you to make it easier for rescuers to spot you from a distance or from the air.

4. Use Your Map and Compass

• Map and Compass: If you have a map and compass, try to determine your location. If you recognize landmarks and can safely navigate, you may choose to carefully move towards a known location.

5. Stay Warm and Dry

• Shelter: Find or create a shelter to protect yourself from the elements. Use a poncho, tarp, or natural materials like branches and leaves.
• Stay Dry: Avoid getting wet, as it can lead to hypothermia. If you’re already wet, try to dry off and change into dry clothing.

6. Find Water

• Water Sources: Locate a safe source of water if you’re going to be stranded for a while. Running water (like streams) is generally safer than stagnant water.
• Purify Water: If possible, purify the water by boiling it, using water purification tablets, or a portable water filter.

7. Wait for Rescue

• Stay Positive: Keep a positive attitude. Rescuers are likely already looking for you, and staying positive can help you make better decisions.
• Be Patient: It might take time for rescuers to find you. Stick to your location, make regular signals, and conserve your energy.

8. Leave Clues if You Move

• Trail Markers: If you decide to move, leave clear markers indicating your direction of travel. Use rocks, sticks, or notes to leave a trail for rescuers to follow.

9. Use Technology

• GPS and Phones: If you have a GPS device or smartphone, use it to try to determine your location and signal for help. Even if there’s no signal, GPS functions may still work.
• Emergency Beacon: If you have a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger, activate it to send a distress signal.

10. Learn and Prepare

• Preparation: Before any trip, ensure you and your group have a plan in case of separation. Carry essential items such as a whistle, map, compass, fire starter, water purification method, and emergency shelter.

Staying prepared and informed is the best way to ensure your safety in the wilderness. 

Kiefer Campgrounds has your back! If you get lost near any one of our campgrounds you can always try calling us for help at 217-342-1111 and our staff will tend to you as soon as possible.