TIPS TO AVOID GETTING LOST IN THE DESERT

With the search for a pair of missing hikers reaching its sixth day, reporter Rebecca Havely offers these tips on how to avoid getting lost in the desert—or anywhere else…
It’s not uncommon for people to become lost or turned around in Joshua Tree National Park. Thankfully, most find their way out, or are rescued by searchers. First of all, if you’re going in the desert, let someone know beforehand where you’re going, when you’ll be back, and give them your cell phone number. County Fire Battalion Chief Mike Snow offered these tips to avoid getting lost. He urged visitors and hikers to be familiar with the areas where they are going. Many maps can be preloaded onto your smart phone and used even in places where there is no cell service. Download the map before you leave home. Snow also said hikers could use a GPS to track your route and mark your way points. Some phones also have GPS apps. And another tip: look behind you occasionally so you can recognize the trail when you return.