Have a plan...

[Grand58742]

In reference to this article:

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/04/04/teen-hiker-found-alive-after-3-days-lost-in-california-canyon-female-companion/

I tend to over pack when hiking, even for a simple day trip. It appears these two did not really think out what could happen and prepare accordingly. Weather changes, you get lost, injured, etc so best to have a plan for the worst case rather than think everything is hunky dory and will go well.

Hard lessons learned for these folks, but I am glad they made it through alive. Hopefully they take the lessons learned and apply them.

[EX121]

As an active Search and Rescue volunteer, I would add have a plan and tell someone 'reliable' your plan. Especially when you should be back.
It could also apply to a PAW, you need to communicate estimated patrol times, etc.

[Matt In Oklahoma]

Yep how many folks did we see on our weekend outing walking out from the trail overexerted with no water or supplies. Also seen some JROTC without a clue to include a leader who didn't seem to know the way back either. Them coolio camos don't mean nothing to moma nature. GQ dont mean squat on a scattered coyote chewed bone set neither.
Humping the ruck only makes ya stronger if you don't need it. If ya need it well it makes ya 1/2way smart.
That weather change comes fast too. Most times ya need a good coal base by the time it hits which mean ya don't try and wait till dark to start it neither. Camp should be established early, in case there are any issues, you know like flash flooding or anything so you can make fixes:)

[Grand58742]

Did that include the "Hello Kitty" backpack JROTC group? :)

[flatlander]

These 2 did pretty much everything wrong. Bet they had no maps, compass, GPS ( other than the phones no doubt) or any gear that we would be carrying. At the very least, carry and know how to use, even the basics. Hopefully they learned a hard lesson..... or not.

Bob

[jimmycthemd]

These 2 did pretty much everything wrong. Bet they had no maps, compass, GPS ( other than the phones no doubt) or any gear that we would be carrying. At the very least, carry and know how to use, even the basics. Hopefully they learned a hard lesson..... or not.

Bob

Could be the only lesson they learned was that if they wait long enough someone will come to the rescue.

[Matt In Oklahoma]

Did that include the "Hello Kitty" backpack JROTC group? :)

mm LOL forgot bout that, remember you all jealous n stuff cause we made you carry a man bag :), but yes I'd rather see that bag full of granola bars, juicies and a jacket than this story

[WiseOwl]

As a backpacker, I laugh at these folks. Call me twisted but if you go out into mother natures backyard unprepared, you get what you deserve.

I am not into the whole carry a "bugout bag" thing everyday everywhere, I go with the more common sense approach. You should always have the proper supplies in your vehicle and on your person. Tools, jumper cables, water, coolant, jacket, shoes......even normal people carry that stuff
I work 10 miles from home. If TSHTF Monday at 8am, I am pretty sure I can walk 10 miles no prob in my boxers barefoot if I have to.

When I backpack or hike, I take what I will NEED if the situation arises. Sometimes in the mountains I wonder if something did happen to me up there, I would literally live like a king until I was found or until I got better, etc. But thats me and whomever I go with.


Every month I always read a story about some yuppies that go backpacking or rock climbing and get stuck and yadda yadda........ seems like they should issue people a test and a backpacking license to keep the idiots on the ground in their suburus

[Matt In Oklahoma]

Basic equipment should be for any outing. It seems too many are lost from complacency, laziness or unknown reasons that defy common sense. The PLAN should include "possibilities" on water and land

Search suspended for kayaking dad, child in Ohio

Published April 08, 2013

Associated Press

SANDUSKY, Ohio