Here is a powerpoint handout for anyone who is interested in how to signal for help in most emergencies. Hope it helps!

1. Signaling Kevin Estela Survival Instructor Wilderness Learning Center 435 Sandy Knoll Road Chateaugay, NY 12920 (518) 497-3179 www.weteachu.com

15. Visual Reference (Mirror Signaling) Mirror Plane #2 Plane #1 Sun 2 nd Mirror Sunlight Reflection off of 2 nd Mirror Reflection from Mirror In this diagram, you can see one method of how a mirror is able to reflect light in two scenarios: when a plane is in the same direction as the sun (Plane #1)and when a plane is in the opposite direction of the sun (Plane #2). With a single mirror, it is possible to signal Plane #2 but it requires holding the mirror flatter.

16. Signal Mirror Reference Slide Less Preferred Methods With Sighting Hole Recommended Method: Flash the beam from the sun off of your pointer and middle finger. Make sure your target is placed in between. Will work with all mirrors or reflective objects even those not equipped with a sighting hole.

21. Air to Ground Symbols (Part I) U.S. Army Field Manual 21-76

22. Air to Ground Symbols (Part II) U.S. Army Field Manual 21-76

27. Signal Fire Reference Slide A proper signal fire should be built in a triangular shape. This is internationally recognized and cannot be accidentally viewed as another geometric pattern. The fires should be 50’ to 75’ feet apart. CORRECT Three fires should not be created in a line. If a plane is flying at a low angle and head on, it may view the three fires/smoke as a single large one. INCORRECT Perceived view of three in a row from head on. INCORRECT 50’ to 75’ 50’ to 75’ 50’ to 75’

32. COMMON FLARES 12 gauge flares will work in both pistols and shotguns if the overall length of the flare fits the chamber. The flares to the right attached to the grip of the pistol will not fit the shotgun’s chamber pictured above it. CAUTION: TREAT FLARE GUNS AS ACTUAL FIREARMS! EXERCISE BASIC SAFETY PRACTICES!

40. Whistle Varieties

41. Weaknesses of Some Whistles The plastic insert of this whistle has a tendency to fall out and render the whistle virtually useless Old “pea” style whistles have had the pea fall out or freeze in place. Whatever whistle you buy, test it. Find out its limitations and remember your life may depend on it. Don’t carry something that isn’t proven

42. Personal Favorite Whistles Acme Brand Tornado. Very flat profile for easy packing in small places. Lifeguard favorite Fox 40. If you can hear the referees over thousands of screaming fans, you can hear it almost everywhere else! My favorite overall. The Storm whistle is easy to use with gloves on and can even be blown underwater. Carried on my BCD while Scuba diving.

43. Improvised Aluminum Can Whistle Even with nothing more than your knife and a littered aluminum can in the woods, you can create a decent whistle. Pinch the sides to create the chamber. Just under 100 decibles and easier than screaming!

50. Acknowledgement Reference This figure from the U.S. Army Field Manual 21-76 is more intended for military operations but tipping of the wings or circling are generally accepted as recognition a signal or distress call has been received.

58. Miscellaneous Notes