If you become lost in the field, what sequence should you follow?

• A. Run in circles to locate landmarks.
• B. Continue wandering to find signal.
• C. Stop, stay calm, assess surroundings, use map/compass to reorient, and request assistance.
• D. Break into a sprint to find a trail.

Answer: (C)

When you’re lost in the field, the priority is to stabilize the situation and reestablish your location before moving. Starting by stopping and staying calm helps you conserve energy and think clearly rather than panicking or overreacting to uncertainty.

Next, take a careful look around. Note any visible features—ridges, water sources, roads, distinctive trees or rocks, the position of the sun or stars if you’re at night. These clues help you orient yourself relative to the terrain you know.

Using a map and compass to reorient is the crucial step that turns guesswork into a location you can act on. By matching what you see with your map and taking a bearing, you can pinpoint where you are and plan a safe direction to move or a point to reach. If you can’t determine your exact position, you can still establish a known refuge point or a location you can be found from, and prepare to signal.

Finally, seek assistance. Call for help through whatever comms you have, or send signals that you’re in need of rescue. Making yourself seen and heard increases the chances you’ll be located quickly.

Wandering, running in circles, or sprinting without a plan drains energy and pushes you further from safe options, which is why they’re not appropriate responses when you’re lost.