From Panic to Plan: Mastering Desert Survival Techniques
If you get lost in the desert, the most important thing is to stay calm and act rationally. Here are the basic steps to get out safely:
1. Assess the situation
• Stop walking immediately and assess your situation.
• Try to remember the last inhabited place you passed.
• Look for any traces of roads, animal tracks, or natural signs that indicate a specific direction.
2. Conserve resources
• Save water and drink small amounts to avoid dehydration.
• Try to stay in the shade during the afternoon hours to reduce fluid loss.
• Don’t use your energy unnecessarily, especially in extreme heat.
3. Determine the correct direction
• Use the sun: In the morning, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
• Use the stars: The North Star (Polaris) indicates north in the northern hemisphere.
• Follow the winds and the direction of the sand dunes, as the winds tend to shape them in a specific direction.
4. Look for natural landmarks
• Mountains and valleys may lead you to water sources or population centers.
• Follow the valleys, as they often lead to water sources or populated areas.
• If you see birds flying in circles, there may be water or life nearby.
5. Survival Signals
Build a large fire with lots of smoke to increase your chances of being seen from the air.
Use a mirror or other reflective surface to signal to pilots or rescue teams.
Make clear marks on the ground using rocks or sticks.
6. Move wisely
If you are going to move, do so early in the morning or after sunset to avoid the heat.
Move in a straight line towards a clear reference point (mountain, tree, etc.).
Do not stray from your location if you are close to a safe place or have sufficient supplies.
If you are yourself in advance for desert trips, it is best to always take a compass, GPS, sufficient amounts of water, and fire-starting equipment with you to avoid these situations.