In any emergency, you need to determine your best options. Your decisions should include all factors such as where you are, how far away help is, where you are in relation to the trail, if you are alone, and whether you or someone else is injured. Always be sure to pre-plan your trip. The right amount of food, water, clothing, etc., can help tremendously if you have become stranded.
If you become stranded, the most important step is to remain calm. Once you are calm, you can assess the situation and attend to any injuries. If you are not able to walk for help, you must prepare to conserve energy and seek shelter. Use your emergency kit to assist you during the emergency.
Provisions
If you have pre-planned for any emergency, you brought food and warming materials. Make sure to ration the food in case rescue is delayed. You should also carry a space blanket and dry, spare clothing. Warmth is most important for you to be able to think clearly and determine your next move.
Shelter
Seek shelter immediately whether it is under a tree, under a shelf of a wall, a rock out cropping or a cave. You can even make a snow cave by digging into a snowdrift. Line the cave with whatever material you can. If a fire is needed, use the matches from your emergency kit to help start a fire.
Where are you?
Now that you’ve assessed the situation and found some shelter, ask yourself where you are. Before your emergency, did you notice trail marks, road signs, rivers or any other markers that might help? Are there any geological features that may point you back onto the trail? You should use your map, GPS unit, and/or compass to help you determine where you are and how to get back to the trail.
How far is help?
Once you have figured out your location, you can guess/estimate how far help is. This guess will also help you decide on whether you start walking or stay where you are. If it is close to nightfall or at night, the best choice is to stay by your snowmobile and build a shelter until daylight. Conserve your energy as much as possible to keep warm during the night.
