Using Your LED Flashlight As An Emergency Signal
One simple piece of technology has saved many lost hikers: an LED flashlight. Learn how to use your flashlight to signal for help, and increase your chances of being found before the situation becomes alarming.
Even if you're an experienced a hiker, the chaotic nature of the wilderness can turn a simple outing into a fight for survival. A sudden change in the weather, an injury or a wrong turn can put you in an emergency situation.
A crucial safety precaution for any hiker is to tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return, so, if something does go awry, someone will eventually come looking for you. The terrain can often make it difficult to spot a lone hiker, especially at night, so make sure they can find you.
One simple piece of technology has saved many lost hikers: an LED flashlight. Learn how to use your flashlight to signal for help, and increase your chances of being found before the situation becomes alarming.
STEP 1: GET VISIBLE
It's always better to bring an LED flashlight, rather than a traditional incandescent one, because LED flashlights provide a high-powered beam that can be spotted from several miles away.
An emergency LED lantern can also help rescuers find you more easily. Today's LED lanterns can offer up to 100 hours of battery life as well as an emergency strobe for getting attention. Some lanterns even offer a red emergency light.
It's important to stay put and not wander around while you're waiting for rescue, however try to find a high point or clearing to send a signal and increase your chances of being seen. Only do this if you're uninjured and can see a better location from where you are.
STEP 2: SIGNAL
It might be tempting to leave the light on all the time, especially at night, but it's important to use your flashlight sparingly to preserve the batteries - even if you have a long-lasting LED flashlight.
Instead, send brief blasts of light by turning your flashlight on and off. Three flashes in a row generally indicate to any observer that you need help. You can also use the Morse code signal for distress: three short blasts, three long blasts and three more short ones.
Remain alert for lights, sounds or other signs that a rescue party may be in range; you can use your flashlight to signal a helicopter or a search party in the distance. Preserve your batteries as much as possible so you'll be prepared for this moment when it comes.
STEP 3: WAIT
Once spotted, you will be tempted to head toward your rescuers, but this would be a big mistake. The last thing you want is to signal where you are and not be there when help arrives. Also, traipsing around in the dark can increase your chances of becoming injured. Instead, remain calm and wait for them to come to you, signaling frequently with your flashlight to help lead them to you.
Remember: your basic survival kit should always include a way to signal for help. Tell someone your plans, pack an emergency LED flashlights or an LED lantern, keep calm in an emergency, and you will greatly increase your chances of being found before the circumstances become dangerous.
About The Author:Be prepared this hiking season with a quality emergency LED light. Coast is an outdoor equipment manufacturer and has the best battery powered lanterns on the market.
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