Have you ever thought about what you might do if you were lost or stranded and needed help? Here are some different ways you can let others know you are in distress and need help. There are different ways and some will work better in certain situations. Knowing multiple ways to signal for help is a good idea.
Upside down American Flag
This isn’t necessarily a sign of disrespect. According to Section 8a of the United States Flag Code, which states;
“The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.”
Three Shots Fired
Three shots fired in quick succession should draw immediate attention. This is one well known to hunters, but one everyone should know. You might be tempted to fire three shots, wait a few seconds and fire three more, but conserve your ammo. You may need to fire three more later to help searchers get a fix on your position, or you might need it for protection. Remember to fire into the ground, not into the air. What goes up must come down.
Three Stones
Finding three stones placed one atop the other is unnatural and should be heeded as a call for help. This would be one to use for marking your path, so rescuers can follow your track more easily.
Three Sticks in the Ground
Like three stones, finding three sticks near each other, all stuck in the ground and pointing straight up is unnatural and should be heeded as a call for help. This would also be a good way to mark your trail.
Three Fires
At night when it’s too dark to see other signals, three fires close to each other will stand out and be viewed as a call for help. To make them stand out more, place them in a triangle or other pattern. This will stand out more than three in a straight line.
Three Debris Piles
If you don’t have a fire, you can make three piles of debris that are a contrast in color to your surroundings. For example, if your boat capsizes and you make it to the sandy shore, you could write SOS in 3-5’ letters and 2” deep, filling the letters with leaves, rock or ash from a fire.
Signal Mirror
The reflection of a signal mirror can be seen much further than any of the other signals of distress. To use it, make a V with two fingers, and hold your hand in front of you, placing the object of your signal between your fingertips. Now flash the reflection at the object. Doing so repeatedly in 3 quick signals will standout more than one constant.
Do you have any other ways to signal for help when you’re in distress?
If you liked this article please think about sharing it on the social media listed below, thanks!
