Signaling for Help in the outdoors

Signaling is an essential skill for anyone who likes to go out into the back country. Knowing how to signal for help and having the right gear for signaling can mean the difference between life and death.

Ways for Signaling for Help

• Smoke and fire - If you are stuck without a way to signal your rescuers, smoke and fire is one of the best options available. Fresh Greenery, oil, and rubber make thick visible clouds of smoke that can be seen for miles.
• Whistles - Whistles are great for short range signaling, whistles are also useful for scaring off large animals and bears.
• Flashlights - A flashlight can be very effective at night. Just make sure to conserve your batteries by using the flashlight when you are certain rescue is near.
• Flares - There are a couple different types of flares. Day flares produce a bright color smoke that can be seen from the air, and night flares produce an extremely bright light that can be seen from far away.
• Bright Reflective materials. Tinfoil, mirrors, metal or anything that can reflect the sunlight can be used to attract attention.
• Cell Phone - Even in the most unlikely places you may be able to get a cell signal.
• Ham Radio - A hand held ham radio will work anywhere in the world. They are lightweight and can be powered with a couple AA Batteries.

Signaling Devices:

• Backcountry Access Tracker DTS beacon One Color, One Size
• Orion Marine Signaling Mirror
• ACR RAPIDFIRE STROBE F/PFD - SAFETY - Signal Devices
• SEACHOICE/LAND&SEA INC. 46111 SIGNAL HORN KIT
• Princeton Tec Aqua Strobe
• Rescue Laser Light, Red
• McMurdo - 82-826-004A - Fastfind Personal Locator Beacon - Yellow - 6 L x 3 W in.

Original: http://offgridsurvival.com/signaling-for-help-in-the-outdoors/