A Cautionary Tale
As you read Jo’s story, consider the choices she must make. Move your mouse over her possible choices to see what they imply. By the end of the tale you will have a clear idea of why the AdventureSmart way helps you stay safe outdoors!
An Afternoon Hike
Jo is a keen physical fitness buff, and likes to keep busy and active. She has recently taken to hiking a popular trail in the hills close to town, which she does to get outside and appreciate nature and to exercise.On this particular day, Jo had a stressful day at work, and is looking forward to getting outside. When she gets home, there’s a message on her phone from a friend, inviting her to a movie later this evening. “Things are looking up,” she thinks to herself, as she gets changed and ready for her outing. She puts on a pair of running tights and a wicking t-shirt. Then,- She ties a light, wind-resistant running jacket around her waist, anticipating needing it for the way back.
- She throws a few extra layers in her daypack – a fleece sweater, a windproof/ rainproof jacket, and a toque.
- She fills a glass and drinks almost all of it.
- She has a glass of water, then fills up a one litre water bottle and puts it in her bag.
- “I’ll probably just meet you at the theatre. I have a few things to do this afternoon.”
- “I’ll meet you there. I’m going on the McPeek Trail right now. You know where that is, right? Well, if I don’t show up for any reason, you’ll know where to find me!”
- She puts on her running jacket, suddenly wishing she had brought something a little warmer.
- She puts on her fleece jacket, and then, trying to keep as much body heat in as she can, adds her toque as well.
- No one knew where she was.
- She remembered telling her friend where she was going before the movie. She looked at her watch. They were supposed to meet in two hours. Her friend would call for help!
- She huddled by a tree, trying to pull her running jacket over her head. A chill went up her spine as she thought of spending the night up here in the cold. She was hungry, and her mouth was parched.
- She pulled her jacket out of her pack and put it on. In the pocket was an energy bar. She let out a whoop of joy. “Dinner!” she cried excitedly. Her water bottle was still half-full. “Hydration is key!” she thought triumphantly, as she imitated her running instructor’s voice.
- “Dinner,” Jo thought dejectedly, “I really wish I had some dinner.” She curled tighter into a ball. It had begun to rain very softly. “Oh no! Why does it have to RAIN?” Jo was shivering now, and it was all she could do to hold back the tears. It was going to be a long, cold night.
- “Rain!” thought Jo. “Hmm, I think I have a plastic bag in here.” She opened the lid of her pack and found the neatly folded orange blanket that she had packed long ago. With a sigh of relief, she pulled it over herself. This would keep her dry and warm, as warm as she could be in the woods after dark. She pulled her whistle out of her pack as well. “When they come looking for me, I’ll be ready,” she thought, and leaned back against the tree.
Trip Tips
Always have a means of communication
Consider carrying a device compatible with your activity and location to call or alert others in an emergency. Remember, if you are in danger, your chance of a successful outcome increases if your call is made as soon as possible.
Be Prepared
Ensure everyone with you understands what to do in case of an emergency.
Don't depend solely on technology
Equipment failure and lack of reception are very possible in the outdoors. Consider carrying a map and compass as a backup.
Familiarize with your equipment
Know the capabilities and the limitations of the equipment you are planning to use as your lifeline to survival.
Let someone know where you are going
Always send your trip plan to a responsible party, family member or friend. They can notify authorities if you don’t return.
Stick to the plan
Throughout your activity, stick to the trip plan you left with a friend or family member. In the event that you do not return as stated in your plan, it can be given to police and search and rescue organizers to help them find you.
Travel with a companion
A companion can give you a hand to overcome difficulties or emergencies.
In an emergency
Don't Panic
Stay calm and maintain a positive attitude.
STOP
Stop, Think, Observe and Plan.
Stay Put
It reduces time and search area for the authorities looking for you.
Seek Shelter
Protect yourself from the elements by staying warm and dry.
Signal for Help
Think BIG, Think CONTRAST, Think 3’s. Use whistle blasts x 3, mirror flashes x 3, horn blasts x 3, signal fires x 3 or rock piles x 3 to signal distress. Create a ground-to-air symbol by making the letter “V” or “SOS”, at least 3 meters in length.
![](https://www.adventuresmart.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Parks_Canada_LogoWHITE-300x225.png)
![](https://www.adventuresmart.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/SARVAC-Logo-01-300x277.png)
![](https://www.adventuresmart.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/logo_canada-01-300x76.png)