Don't panic. That can't be overemphasized. If you feel yourself getting panicky, take ten slow, deep breaths (actually count them) and you'll feel yourself relaxing. Repeat this several times. Now you're ready to act as the situation requires.

2torial #0434: Learn2 Behave When Lost in the Woods (Continued) Don't Panic First of all, get a grip on yourself. Take ten slow, deep breaths (actually count them) if you do feel panicky. It's normal to feel scared, but keep in mind that all you've lost is a bit of information. An unknown patch of forest isn't inherently more dangerous than a known patch. It's just unknown to you. Begin by acknowledging that you're lost--or if you're with one or more other people, by gently creating the consensus that you're lost. Some folks tend to deny the situation, right up to the point where they march off a cliff. Don't let macho (or macha) posturings endanger everyone. There are two common reactions you'll want to avoid. One is panic, which usually triggers the flight response in humans. Running wildly around, even for a few minutes, could get you irretrievably lost (if not injured). The other reaction is overcompensation: deciding that it's time to play Robinson Crusoe of the Redwoods and trying to build a cabin, forage for food, and lay in a cord of wood before nightfall. You may end up spending a night or so in the wild, but conserve your energy. Tired people don't think as well as rested ones, and they require more food and water to keep going. Step 2