What should we do if we get lost in the mountains?
The STOP Method is used to identify, plan and implement protective measures in high-risk situations, and is part of a necessary assessment in such cases.
In Spain, every year over one thousand mountain rescue operations take place, particularly in regions such as Aragon and Catalonia, due to the constant flow of hikers and the conditions of the land. What should we do if we find ourselves in this situation, without any access to the emergency service? In this situation, the safest recommendation is to use the STOP method.
What is the STOP method?
- Stay/Stop. Stop the moment you realise that you are lost. It is essential to remain calm and avoid panicking. Sit down and regulate your breathing until you feel calmer.
- Think. Evaluate the situation: What was the last sign on the route that you recognised? How long have you been walking since then? Have you got enough food and water to cover your needs? What is the last sheltered place or safe area that you remember? Do you have mobile phone coverage, internet access or a map to hand?
- Observe. Observe your surroundings and check the equipment you have with you. Look for reference points in the landscape that could help to orientate you, such as signs for nearby paths or routes and check the weather conditions.
- Plan. Finally, plan how to proceed, taking into account the information you have gathered. The most important decision is deciding whether you will remain in this place or you will try to get back to a specific point. Remember: ration your resources and, if you move, leave signs along the way.
Alpine emergency sign
If your mobile telephone is inactive or there is no coverage for any network, there is an international alpine emergency sign. To use this, you can use an emergency whistle, make light signals or wave a jacket.
