Targeted Signals
TARGETED SIGNALS ARE SIGNALS that need to be seen or heard by a target—a
person on foot or in a plane or boat, for example—to be effective. There are
those that are ready to use and those that you need to make yourself.
If you are using a visual signal that you want to be seen by passing
aircraft, locate it in a clear, flat area on the highest possible terrain. Know
that if you are spotted by an aircraft, it will probably not land immediately.
Look for the pilot to acknowledge your signal by flying low, dropping a
message, dipping the plane’s wings, or flashing lights.
No matter what type of signal you make, know how to use it and be
ready to get it going on short notice. You may have only seconds, and a
missed opportunity could cost you your life.
ReadytoUse Signals
Readytouse signals are the easiest ones to employ in the wilderness
because they’re typically the product of some sort of technological innova
tion. At least one of these devices should be in your complete survival kit.
Signal mirror: A signal mirror’s reflection can be seen as far away as 50
miles (80 km) on a clear, sunny day. Signal mirrors can also work on over
cast days and with moonlight, although with less range.
True signal mirrors come with an aiming hole in the middle, but any
mirror or reflective material (like a square of tinfoil) can be aimed at its
target. Face the target and stretch out your arm so that your hand is just
beneath the target. With your other hand, hold the mirror near your head
and aim the reflected light directly onto your hand. Tilt the mirror up and
down rapidly. Given the range of the signal mirror, you should flash any
airplane you see, no matter how far away it may seem. The internationally
recognized SOS signal is three short reflections followed by three longer
ones followed again by three short ones.
Generally, the larger the mirror the more light it will reflect. Glass
mirrors reflect better than any other material, but also are the most easily
broken; metal mirrors (including stainless steel), on the other hand, scratch
easily and are also subject to rust, particularly in saltwater environments.
(^56) | Survive!