Being lost and stranded in the wilderness is a frightening experience. Having the right signaling tools is crucial. These essential items can help you attract attention and increase your chances of rescue. Here are three signaling must-have items to add to your survival kit:
Signaling Must-Haves
There are various signaling tools available, such as whistles, mirrors, flares, and signaling panels, each offering unique benefits. By packing these essential signaling tools, you will prepare yourself better to handle unexpected situations and increase your chances of survival.
Flare Mini Signal Mirror
The Wazoo Gear Flare Mini Signal Mirror is an essential tool for signaling for help during emergencies, capable of attracting attention from planes or rescue teams up to 30 miles away. It fits perfectly in the Cache Belt buckle with its included Signal Mirror Sleeve, and is a valuable addition to any emergency kit.
You can attach the mirror to gear or PFDs. It floats and reflects highly, making it visible up to 10 miles. It features a one-handed reflective aimer, but you should use it with a flashlight at night. Besides signaling, it can also check for eye abrasions, perform tick checks, or help with grooming after a rescue.
Field Test
Signaling gets overlooked in survival programs, and many kits miss the mark. The Wazoo Gear Flare Mini Signal Mirror features a lightweight, shatterproof design specifically for the Cache Belt system. This makes it easy to carry. I believe in having at least two signaling methods while in the woods. I keep this mirror in my Cache Belt and also carry a small dog tag-sized mirror on my keychain.
What I like most about this compact mirror is its size. There’s no reason not to carry two, given its low weight. Its bright orange color makes it easy to find in low light with a flashlight. Besides signaling, it’s also useful for tick checks, which are important in warmer months across many US regions.
The Wazoo Flare Mini Signal Mirro is waterproof, freeze-proof, and shatter-proof, ensuring durability and usability in any environment, including fresh and salt water.
Signaling Must-Have Poncho
The SOL Heat Reflective Poncho is a game-changer in outdoor gear. This lightweight, compact, and versatile poncho keeps you warm, dry, and visible in any weather condition.
Key features:
- Heat Reflective Technology: The poncho’s 90% heat-reflective material maximizes warmth retention, making it ideal for emergency situations or chilly nights.
- Waterproof and Windproof: Stay dry and protected from the elements, no matter the weather.
- Durable and Lightweight: This poncho weighs only 2.7 ounces, making it easy to carry. You can use it as a ground cloth or an emergency shelter.
- Spacious Design: Cover yourself and your gear, or even share it with a furry friend.
How to Use:
- Emergency Shelter: Simply pull the poncho over yourself and your gear to create an instant shelter.
- Heat Reflection: Position the poncho near a heat source, like a campfire, to maximize warmth.
- Signal: Use the poncho’s reflective surface to signal for help in emergency situations.
With the SOL Heat Reflective Poncho, you’ll be prepared for any outdoor adventure. Stay warm, dry, and visible with this survival must-have.
TripleWhistle Signaling Must-Have
The Sun Company’s 3-in-1 Survival Whistle is a compact and reliable tool featuring a precise compass, a thermometer for temperature tracking, and an emergency whistle. Proudly designed and assembled in the USA, it guarantees quality and attention to detail.
The luminous compass is ideal for navigating in low-light conditions, featuring a 20mm Grade A liquid-filled dial that illuminates in the dark. It’s perfect for hikers and campers who need to find their way at night.
The Japanese Dial Thermometer is a precise 20mm liquid-damped Grade AA thermometer that can read temperatures as low as -20°F. Its high-visibility Safety Orange color makes it easy to spot, and it includes a safety whistle and a lanyard for quick access, making it useful in emergencies.
Field Test
I’m a big fan of carrying a whistle instead of keeping it tucked away where it’s hard to reach or could get lost. The 17-inch lanyard provides good attachment options, and the bright orange color ensures it’s noticeable if dropped. I appreciate the general direction compass that lights up at night or when recharged with a flashlight. The TripleWhistle is a practical multi-tool survival item that offers great value without being gimmicky.
Having a thermometer adds fun to campfire chats as we guess the temperature. I especially liked its sturdy design, which resists damage from falls or steps. The pea is nearly impossible to freeze, ensuring the tool remains functional.
Beyond using the whistle in groups of three, the luminous compass can attract attention when swung on its 17-inch lanyard, especially when low-flying aircraft are nearby. Just be cautious not to lose grip on the lanyard!
For more information, check out Sun Company, Wazoo Gear, and SOL.
