Navigation & Signalling
STOP and terrain association
Search-and-rescue teaching emphasises stopping the panic walk and rebuilding a mental map from ridges, drainages and last known point.
At a glance
Energy investmentLow energyThinking is cheaper than walking wrong for hours.
ReliabilityHigh reliability
Time10–20 minutes to a plan
Materials
- Last known point memory
- Watch/sun if visible
- Markers (blazes you can undo)
Steps
- 1Stop moving. Sit, drink, calm breathing.
- 2List facts: last trail, sun direction, time, terrain slope.
- 3Identify handrails (streams, ridges) you can follow without cliffing out.
- 4Choose: return to last known point, follow handrail to help, or stay and signal.
- Continuing downhill blindly
- Night travel without need
- Erasing your own breadcrumb trail
Region fit
Best in: Temperate forest, Tropical jungle, Desert, Mountains, Snow & ice, Coast & swamp
Temperate forestGood fit Tropical jungleGood fit DesertGood fit MountainsGood fit Snow & iceGood fit Coast & swampGood fit
Fit keyGood fitPoor fitAvoid
Other methods
Rate yourself
Take the PSR assessment and score this skill honestly.