what is STOP Method?

        Let's say you get lost in woods...

        use STOP Method!

• (S) Stay Calm: Panic is your worst enemy, so take a few deep breaths to calm down. The last thing you should do is hurry off in a haphazard direction, as this may add to your anxiety.
• (T) Think: Were you traveling in a straight line or were there a lot of twists and turns? Did you pass any familiar spots or other people? Were you traveling north, south, east, or west? Try to answer these questions, as any bit of information can be useful.
• (O) Observe: Can you determine which direction is north? How long will your food and water last? Can you see any obvious landmarks? Do you see any footprints, and if so, in which direction are they headed? Try to find any clue that might help to lead you back to your original footpath.
• (P) Plan: Determine which direction you should walk – but do so with caution. Mark your progression with rocks, cairns, or piles of sticks. If you don’t find your way, you can always return to the point where you first realized you were lost.