While making one of my survival films, I once came upon a set of
train tracks. Although I later received a lot of mail chastising me for not
following the tracks to safety, at the time, I had been certain there was a
highway only a few miles east of the tracks. Since I didn’t have a clue where
the tracks would take me, I went with the sure thing, crossed the tracks, hit
the highway, and found my way home.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
GPS ISASATELLITEBASED NAVIGATION SYSTEM that can provide accurate loca
tional data anywhere, at any time. A GPS unit displays your current location
in latitude and longitude coordinates; if you enter the map coordinates
of your destination, it will also tell you the direction you should travel.
Most GPS units also have an electronic compass. Purchase one with a coil
antenna that gets good signals under tree canopy and a memory card with
topographical maps, so that you can track your movements and easily use
the “goto” feature to find any place on the map.
Remember, though, that GPS units run on batteries, which may die
at the worst possible moment. Never rely on a GPS. You should also know
how to use a map and compass.
Trailblazing
THOUGH OFTEN OVERLOOKED, an important aspect of survival travel and nav
igation is marking the surrounding natural features (also known as trail
blazing) while you move. Other travelers may see these indicators that
you’ve left behind, increasing your chances of being rescued. These mark
ings are also useful if you decide that the path you’re taking is wrong and
you want to go back.
The best way to blaze a trail is to use a sharp object, such as a belt
knife, axe, or machete, to cut a small piece of bark off a tree. You can also
use the orange surveyor’s tape from your survival kit.
When trailblazing, make sure you mark both sides of the tree (the
direction you came from and the direction you’re going). This way you’ll
(^242) | Survive!