Wilderness Survival
Submitted by: Vicki Badura

No one wants to get lost in unfamiliar territory, but if you spend time in the backcountry, becoming lost is always a possibility. According to Cliff Meier, field coordinator with the NM State Police Search & Rescue, and BCHNM member, taking a few minutes to plan your trip before you leave could save your life.

Plan your route before you leave home, using a map of the area, and checking with local land managers about trail conditions. Let the members of your group know the plan, and leave a map of the route and estimated time of return with someone back at home. When you plan your trip be sure to prepare your mount, know what condition your animals are in, and what their limitations are. Take the right equipment with you, know how to use it, and be prepared to stay longer than planned. Before heading out you should also get a report of the latest weather conditions and forecast.

Suggestions for basic equipment include: map, compass, mirror, clothing/footwear, food/water, knife, leatherman tool, fire starter, space blanket, flashlight, whistle, gloves, first aid kit, sun screen. Optional equipment includes: cell phone, GPS receiver, family service radio, extra batteries, hand gun, chaps. Basics for your horse include: saddle, halter, lead rope, breast collar, crupper, hobbles, first aid kit (people and horse can share the same one), easy boot, fly repellent. Extra equipment to keep at camp includes: feed, water, buckets, method of restraint, "bigger" first aid kit. Take what you need and don't assume anything.

Despite all your plans, you come to the unpleasant realization that you're lost...now what? It's vital to stay calm and think. Stop early, especially in the winter, and find shelter. Build a fire. Keep your level of physical exertion to no more than 60% of your maximum effort. If you have a cell phone, call a friend, local law enforcement, or 911. They'll want to know the number of another contact, to confirm your call isn't a hoax, and the location you left from, and a description of your vehicle at the trailhead.

If you're injured, and can call or radio for help, give your best estimate of where you are. If you have a GPS receiver, tell the operator your coordinates. Also let them know what equipment you have, and what condition you're in. Be concise! Save the batteries. Follow any instructions that you are given.

Unfortunately accidents happen and people can be injured on the trail. If an accident happens, make the injured person as comfortable as possible, and administer basic first aid. If an extra person is available, and you know where you are, send someone to get help/meet the rescue party. Stay calm! Your demeanor can decrease the injured person's stress level.

Once a rescue is initiated, a "lost report" goes to the NM State Police, and a field coordinator (FC) is assigned. The FC calls out search and rescue resources which may include foot patrol, horse, 4X4, ATV, and aircraft. The normal response time to get a search underway is 2-4 hours.

Planning ahead, being prepared, and staying calm, are your best allies if you're lost or injured, and can literally make the difference between life and death.

Back to BCH News