| Map Reading |
| 7. Maintenance of Maps and Compass Maintenance of compass ˇ Do not bundle compasses together. ˇ Do not swing the compass about. ˇ Do not place compass near metallic or magnetic objects. Maintenance of Maps ˇ Waterproofing a map: a) Get a large, zip-lock bag and a few section of sturdy, waterproof tape. b) Wrap the map carefully in the plastic bag and seal it with the adhesive tape. c) The map should fit exactly into the bag and not allowed to slide within the bag. If a bag bigger than the map is being used, the sliding of the map can be avoided by further securing the excess of the plastic with the tape. ˇ Maps should be folded according to the grid lines. ˇ It is necessary to fold the map because a) It prevent a map from being crumpled in case of strong wind. b) It makes it more convenient for carrying. c) It allows the user to focus on the desired portion of the entire map Map and compass tips A) At trailhead, where you know your position, identify prominent landmarks and orient the map. B) As you like, pause frequently to consult the map or compass and establish your whereabouts. But do not stumble along looking at them. C) Each time you fix your location, check the map for features yet to comes so that you will recognized them. As you walk, watch for these features. If you are lost 1) Try to retract your steps to the place where you knew where you are. 2) If step 1 does not work, orient your map. On the map, try to spot the last point where you confirmed your location. 3) On the map, and in your surroundings, look for identifiable landmarks such as prominent peaks or ridges. 4) If it still does not work, mark the spot where you are with a couple of rocks or a broken branch, so that you will recognized home-base again. 5) Then keeping your gear with you, walk in one direction for a hundred feets or so. If thing do not look familiar, return to home-base and walk in another direction. 6) Continued to take straight-line excursions along the radius from home-base. More often than not, you will intercept the trail or spot familiar ground. 7) If not, resign yourself to staying put for a while, perhaps overnight. Find a protected spot and make a shelter. If is safe to do so, build a fire for warmth and for signal. 8) Mark the area to help searchers, using articles like clothing, a brightly colored tarps or poncho. 9) Ration your food. |
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