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NAVIGATION:  I have seen so many people in these deserts who venture out into this hostile environment without knowing where they’re going.  Or, more importantly, where they have been.  Almost every time I venture forth, there is at least one party I meet asking me for directions.  Of course, I’m glad to oblige.  But, what they don’t know CAN hurt them if they become LOST IN THE DESERT.  In this day and age, with Global Positioning Systems and modern maps, there is almost no excuse for getting LOST!  Extreme weather might be one possible exception.  In any case, most states hold lost people accountable for the cost of their rescue operations.  The use of helicopters and the like can make a rescue VERY expensive! It'd take Michael Jordan a whole game to pay for that!!!!

ALWAYS follow these rules for desert navigation:

• ALWAYS carry detailed maps, at least 1:100,000 scale or smaller, of the areas you are interested in. 
• ALWAYS carry a compass, preferably a good one, even if you carry a GPS unit.   And, you must know how to use the maps and the compass.  There are many sources of maps and map education.
• ALWAYS plan a route.  Planning usually saves time and effort.
• ALWAYS tell someone (like a family member or a Ranger) where you are going and when you'll be back, so they know where and when to start looking for you in case you get into trouble.
• ALWAYS take at least one other person with you: DO NOT venture into the desert ALONE.  Parties of four people (or 2 vehicles) are ideal, because one person can stay with the person in trouble, while the other two escort each other to get help.
• ALWAYS carry your cell phone, or laptop computer with a sky modem, at all times, in case you need to send an emergency call or email.

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