Communication & Signaling Worksheet
Communication & Signaling Worksheet
1. Trip Overview
Trip Length: ☐ 1-2 Days ☐ 3-5 Days ☐ 6+ Days
Expected Terrain: ☐ Forest ☐ Mountain ☐ Desert ☐ Other: ___________
Expected Weather Conditions: _______________________
Primary Navigation & Communication Tools: ☐ Satellite Communicator ☐ PLB ☐ Cell Phone ☐ Two-Way Radio
Emergency Contact Person: _______________________
Planned Check-In Points (Time & Method): _______________________
2. Communication Equipment Check
Do you have the following essential items?
☐ Satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach, ZOLEO) or PLB
☐ Cell phone with emergency contacts saved and offline maps downloaded
☐ Two-way radio with emergency frequencies noted
☐ Backup power source (solar charger, power bank)
☐ Whistle (three blasts = distress signal)
☐ Signal mirror or reflective object
☐ Bright clothing or flagging tape for visibility
☐ Fire-starting materials for emergency signaling (if permitted)
3. Pre-Trip Planning & Emergency Readiness
☐ Share itinerary with a trusted contact (route, expected return, emergency plan)
☐ Research local emergency frequencies and contacts (ranger stations, SAR teams)
☐ Establish backup communication methods if primary device fails
☐ Learn and practice basic distress signals (whistle, mirror, ground signals)
☐ Create a plan for battery conservation and device management
4. Emergency Scenarios
How would you handle the following situations?
Your phone dies, and you need to send a check-in message.Response: ______________________________________________________
You become lost in an area with no cell service.Response: ______________________________________________________
A group member suffers a serious injury and cannot walk.Response: ______________________________________________________
Your satellite communicator is not getting a signal under thick tree cover.Response: ______________________________________________________
You see a rescue helicopter in the distance but have no electronic communication.Response: ______________________________________________________
5. Final Preparedness Check
Do you have two reliable communication methods? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Do you know how to activate SOS if needed? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Do you have a battery conservation strategy? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Are your emergency contacts and frequencies documented? ☐ Yes ☐ No
✔ Final Thought: Are you confident in your ability to communicate effectively and signal for help if needed?
Communication & Signaling Worksheet
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