How to Avoid Getting Lost in the Forest 1. Before heading into the forest, carefully study the area map and routes. 2. Bring a compass and know how to use it. 3. Mark your route to avoid getting lost. 4. Pay attention to landmarks: trees, rocks, rivers. 5. Do not stray from the group if you are with others. 6. If you get lost, stop and try to understand where you are. 7. Do not panic; stay calm and use your knowledge. 8. If necessary, seek help. Stay safe and enjoy nature!

Ministry of Emergency Situations informs Every year, dozens of Belarusians get lost. Some, after wandering for 2-3 hours, find their way home on their own. However, some have to be searched for by everyone: the forest is combed by rescuers, police, foresters, and residents of nearby villages. Most often, orientation problems arise among elderly people. However, anyone can get lost.

Often, people dress for the forest as if they are going to engage in guerrilla warfare. Camouflage effectively hides a person, which significantly complicates the search if there is no strength left to signal for help. Of course, clothing should be durable, but it is better to wear bright colors. A red cap, scarf, or any noticeable item will be helpful.

Before heading into the forest, study the map of the area, equip yourself with a phone with a navigator and a minimal first aid kit. To avoid getting lost, if you are going in a group, you can use a whistle. Its sound can be heard from 2-3 kilometers away.

When preparing for a trip to the forest, pay attention to the weather conditions: it is better to postpone the trip in cloudy weather. If the trip for mushrooms or berries is a done deal, follow these recommendations:

• do not go into the forest alone;
• learn the basic rules of orientation in the forest;
• inform relatives or acquaintances about your intended route and return time, and timely inform them if plans change;
• wear comfortable, waterproof clothing and footwear;
• take a phone, water, medications, a knife, and matches with you.

Before delving into the forest, pay attention to the sun, remember which side it is on. If the sun is on your right, then when exiting the forest in the same direction, it should be on your left.

If you get lost in the forest, the first thing you need to do is orient yourself in the area, determine where you can find water and fire to protect yourself from the cold and organize a place to sleep.

If you have a mobile phone with you, dial the emergency service number and inform them from which settlement and district you entered the forest, describe what you see around you.

If you find yourself in the forest without a phone and cannot determine your location even approximately, stop and calm down. If possible, drink water and move towards your goal.

The main thing for you is to reach people, so important landmarks will be power lines, clearings, and paths. Upon discovering any of these objects, walk along it, and you will definitely find people.

If you encounter a stream or river, follow downstream – it will always lead you to people. Listen: the sound of a tractor can be heard from 3-4 km away, a barking dog from 2-3 km, and a passing train from 10 km, so move towards the sound.

Do not attempt to leave the forest at night: when it starts to get dark, it is better to set up a place for sleeping. A hole from an uprooted tree will suffice. Make a shelter from branches similar to a lean-to and a bedding from available materials. By the way, about fighting the cold.

A sheet of newspaper tucked under your clothing will reduce heat loss by half. The same effect is achieved by stuffing leaves under your clothing. When organizing a sleeping place, make sure that those searching for you do not pass by - hang a cap, handkerchief, or sheet of paper on the bushes, break branches to attract attention.

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