Use three emergency signaling methods.
Signal Mirror
To use a signal mirror, reflect sunlight from the mirror onto a
nearby surface (your hand, a tree, etc.). Slowly bring the mirror to eye level
and look through the sighting hole. You will see a bright spot, also called the
fireball, within the surrounding mesh. This is the aim indicator. Hold the
mirror close to your eye and slowly turn it so that the fireball is on the
target. Manipulate the mirror up and down rapidly to flash the target.
Once the target indicates your flash has been
spotted and turns toward you, do not keep the mirror on it continuously, because
the flash can be blinding. Continue flashing periodically until the target
arrives in your area and indicates you have been visually
located.
Not to endorse any particular dealer but these signal mirrors
are available for &9.95 plus S&H at
http://www.survivalunlimited.com/survival_misc/starflash.htm
Whistle
The whistle is a small, hand-held device that produces a loud sound when it is blown. The standard whistle is constructed of plastic (metal whistles are nasty in cold weather) and resembles a police officer’s whistle.
The sound produced by a whistle will attract the attention of rescuers and guide them to the whistle’s origination. During periods of restricted visibility, fog, and darkness, rescuers may hear the sound it produces before they sight the distress signal light.
Not to endorse any dealer but the Fox 40 Classic whistles are available for
$5.95 plus S&H at
http://www.rangerjoes.com/fox-whistle-classic-p-776.html
While these devises play an important part in emergency signaling, it must be
remembered: They can start a forest fire.
Use with extreme care!!!!
These flares have a life of several minutes or less and are very spendy.
They are available on the internet. Search for "smoke flare".
Personnel Marker Light
A PML is a device that uses either battery or chemical action to provide light for the wearer to be seen during darkness. The yellow-green light of a PML is visible for a distance of approximately one mile on a clear night, and lasts as long as eight hours. It is the only chemical light approved for use as a distress signal light on a PFD. A certified PML complies with regulation 46 CFR 161.012 (Coast Guard-approved).
Not to endorse any particular dealer but these PMLs are available for $4.88 plus
S&H at
http://www.uscav.com/Productinfo.aspx?productid=8385&TabID=1
