 Expert skier lost five days in North Cascades without Essentials, map and compass  Body of missing hiker who grew up in Yakima recovered  Lost Father & Son Hunting Near Pompey’s Pillar  Search continues for Minnesota hunter missing in Montana  STATE POLICE RESPOND TO 5 LOST HIKERS IN MOUNT WASHINGTON STATE FOREST The Mountain Rescue Association which has chapters in 20 states launches about 3,000 SAR missions annually!!

 Before entering unfamiliar bush, be well acquainted with the lay of the land. (study topographic maps, familiarize with dominant terrain features and any natural or man made landmarks.)  Get a weather forecast.  Don’t hike alone. If you do, notify someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.  Take a compass!! Get a heading often (at least every half hour.)  Travel on marked trails or well worn paths.  Stay with group (team leaders: be aware of how far out your group is strung. Wait up!! Your group is only as fast as the slowest member.)  If the group must split up travel in pairs.

 S tay calm/Stay put!!  T hink: (how long since last trail sign, what memorable features were past, will anyone notice/search?)  O bserve: ( time of day, compass heading, tracks, vistas, listen, survival/signal gear)  P lan: (stay or go?)

 If it is within an hour and a half of nightfall and you are still uncertain of a way out, begin making provisions to bivy.  In extreme cold you may have to guess the best direction and go for it.  If the decision is made to go, leave a sign indicating direction of travel.  Once a direction of travel is chosen stick with it to avoid back tracking.