Why You Should Pack A Mirror For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

No one embarks on an outdoor adventure with the intent of getting lost. However, it does happen. In fact, studies show close to 5,000 people get lost in the woods each year. According to National Geographic an overwhelming number of those who became lost were only out for a day hike. This means they were likely less prepared for an elongated stay from being lost and more apt to suffer severe injury or death.

In the modern age of technology and electronic communication, signaling, and navigation, a good number of outdoor enthusiasts have gone away from carrying some basic tools and pieces of equipment which were once considered essential. Tools such as maps, compasses, whistles, and signal mirrors do not require batteries or signals, so will work regardless of your location or how long you've had them stuffed in your backpack. While maps and compasses can help you find your way, there are circumstances when signaling becomes important for your safety and, perhaps, even your survival. This is why you should pack a mirror for your next outdoor adventure. In fact, it's a good idea to just keep a signal mirror along with your essential emergency supplies. 

Whether you are lost at sea or in the woods, signaling for help is often an essential element in being rescued. Even if you have a map and compass, if you are injured and unable to move, if your boat is disabled, or if you are just too exhausted to continue, you will need to alert potential rescuers to your location and situation. This is where a signal mirror comes in clutch. While whistles can help get the attention of a rescuer that is nearby, a signal mirror can be seen at a much greater distance and gives rescuers a much more accurate location. 

While any mirror or reflective object may work, a true signal mirror is preferable as it has a more powerful and compact flash, which can be seen further away and gives a more accurate location. Additionally, they have an eye hole that can help line up sighted targets such as rescuers or planes. Some outdoor enthusiasts prefer the durability of metal mirrors such as the Coughlin's Metallic Sight-Grid Signal Mirror, although maximum distance and accuracy is achieved with models like the Coughlin's Signal Mirror, made of laminated glass. Some compasses are fitted with mirrors, as well. 

Regardless of which mirror you use, as long as you have sunlight and open space, you can use it to signal. If you are in an obscured location, try to move to an open area. Then, put the mirror to your eye and begin tilting it towards the sun until you see a small white light through the hole. Next, move the mirror toward your target and wobble it a bit to make it flash. Signal in series of three flashes, which is the universal distress signal.