In the Wilderness, Communication Equipment

In all types of weather, for hunting, fishing, hiking, boating, or cycling

In the wild, communication is both a question of life and ease. Communications must begin before ever leaving the house. In fact, our first two communication suggestions don't even necessitate the use of any technology or devices.

"Make sure someone knows when you leave and when you anticipate to return (or arrive at your destination)," says Chad Brown, proprietor of Farm & Field fishing and hunting equipment auctions, a website dedicated to hunting, fishing, and farming. "Give as much information as you can about your route."

Things can go wrong. While trekking, rocks may fall on your head. While fishing, boats might flip over. While hunting, firearms can misfire. Someone has to know you're running late...and where to send search parties to look for you. When I was the spokesperson for CAA Ontario, I used to deliver this advise to drivers in the winter.

The second piece of advice is to never go into the woods by yourself. Just as one should never go swimming without a partner, one should never do long-distance cycling or trekking without a companion, nor should one go hunting, camping, or fishing in a distant place without one.

While out in the woods, my wife's uncle was struck in the head by a heavy falling branch, knocking him unconscious and splitting his skull in half. His skull would eventually mend, but only because he was accompanied into town. Otherwise, he might not be discovered.

Another complaint concerning a fall from a tree stand comes from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation: "The person had no communications equipment with him." There was no phone or radio. A response may have been faster if the subject had left a note indicating where he would be and when he expected to return. The patient died as a result of a shattered shoulder, several broken ribs on one side, and a punctured lung.

Is this some sort of hunting gear?

While out hunting, fishing, or camping, it is beneficial to have some communications equipment, assuming you are still cognizant. Of course, there's the ubiquitous mobile phone, which allows for quick contact practically anywhere on the planet. Unless, of course, you're going on a wilderness adventure.

However, there are numerous situations where your fishing lake or hunting grounds are within mobile phone range. The nicest thing about having a mobile phone is that you can have completely regular conversations with almost anyone, even if you're out in the middle of nowhere.

"Yes, we've been experiencing some wonderful weather recently. Okay, honey, I'll pick up some milk and peanut butter on my way back into town...wait! Was that a whitetail deer? I've got to get going." Click.

Not only that, but an email to phone service on a cell phone allows you to check your email while crouching in your tent or ascending a cliff.

Because it does not rely on the cellular phone network to connect, a two-way radio is a considerably more reliable piece of equipment. The disadvantage is that you can only communicate with other people who own two-way radios.

"Hello, Big Bear, do you read what I'm saying?" Can you contact my wife and find out whether I need to pick up milk and peanut butter on my way back into town? Do you plagiarise? Oh, by the way, did you get the weather prediction there?"

It's a good idea to check the weather forecast before going on any outdoor adventure. However, because the weather prediction may change fast, a mobile phone or radio might also be useful.

"What exactly do you mean by thunderstorms and hail?!?" I've only just arrived, sweetie, and I don't want to leave just yet. Oh…alright…”

Of course, you could just have the weather prediction emailed to you on your phone.

Another piece of hunting equipment suggested by Chad Brown is to wear a really loud whistle around your neck. You might not have the reach or the attention span to dial a number if you're stuck under a tree, pinned down by a boulder, or battling a grizzly bear. If anyone is within hearing distance, they will flee... If not to assist you, then at the very least to record the situation for America's Funniest Home Videos.

Our final piece of advice may seem self-evident, but make sure you know who to call. Tape the emergency number to the back of your mobile phone (do not follow your wife's suggestion to tattoo it on your forehead; where would you locate a mirror in the midst of a ravine?) Also, make sure you know what frequency to use on the two-way radio to request assistance.

That is all there is to it. You're ready to venture out into the wilderness and converse. Make sure you're prepared, that you have the necessary hunting or fishing equipment for communication, and that you know how to utilise it in an emergency.

And if the animals don't comprehend what you're trying to say, you might not be any worse off than you were before.