Let it snow, let it snow, gimme a tow!
Personally I don't own one and have no plans to buy one. Can't teach an old dog new tricks I guess.
What are any of your thoughts on these devices? Too much reliance on them saps your innate abilities to get around on reckoning and common sense in my opinion. I think these skills are necessary to have even if you use a GPS. The couple from Reno would undoubtedly agree.
And a piece of advice to anyone who may find themselves stranded in the backwoods...light up a tree to act as a beacon.
Choose a tree near your car or camp, yet far enough away should it topple that it doesn't hit you. After they burn awhile they become unstable, so be careful and stay your distance.
Select a snag (dead tree) that is dry and that will burn easily. All forests have scattered standing dead trees. If you are in a conifer forest try and select one that is loaded with pitch...it will send up lots of smoke. The burning tree acts as a giant chimney and will send a column of smoke into the air that can be seen, on a clear day, for literally dozens of miles. Rescue will follow shortly. A very low tech solution to answer your peril.
Imagine this snag afire sending flames up to 150 or even 200 feet into the sky...it will get noticed!
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