SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hike-stop-when-lost

In the STOP plan for when you are lost, what does the S tell you to do?

Stop: stay calm and stay put. Then Think, Observe and Plan.

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  1. Shout as loud as you can
  2. Stop, stay calm and stay put ✔
  3. Speed up to find the trail

Why: The Forest Service calls panic your greatest enemy. As soon as you think you are lost, stop and stay calm. Wandering can take you farther from where searchers will look.

Huh, didn't know that: The Forest Service says that if you are not very, very confident in the route, it is always better to stay put.

The dad joke
I got lost on a hike and used the STOP plan. Now I am a big fan of acronyms.
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References

Answer: Stop, stay calm and stay put. The Forest Service calls panic your greatest enemy. As soon as you think you are lost, stop and stay calm. Wandering can take you farther from where searchers will look.

  1. USDA Forest Service: If You Get Lost www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost
    As soon as you realize you may be lost: stop, stay calm, stay put. Panic is your greatest enemy.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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