Cheat sheet: Signals and communication

1. 1Dial the emergency number – Dial the local emergency number (112 in the EU).
2. 2Where? – Give the location as precisely as possible: address or trail, summit, hut, signpost, landmarks.
3. 3What happened, how many people? – Briefly describe the event, the number of people affected and visible injuries or hazards (fall, fire, water, weather).
4. 4Wait for questions – Answer the dispatcher's questions and follow their instructions.
5. 5Stay reachable – Keep the phone on, do not use it for other calls, conserve the battery.
6. 6Make yourself noticeable – Guide rescuers: bright clothing, light, whistle; in the field send one person to a highly visible spot if that is safe.

Danger: When in doubt, call early. The dispatch centre decides what help is needed; an early call gives rescuers time, especially before darkness or worsening weather.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-emergency-call

1. 1Check settings – Find the emergency alerts or wireless emergency alerts section in the phone settings and check which levels are active.
2. 2Add an official warning app – Install the warning app recommended by your country's authorities and save important places (home, work, parents' home).
3. 3Use test days – During national test alerts, check whether the message arrived, and ask family members.
4. 4Other channels – Have a battery radio and know the meaning of local siren signals – phone warnings may fail during power or network outages.
5. 5When travelling – Find out which warning systems your destination uses; cell broadcast messages often arrive in the local language.

Danger: A warning contains instructions. Follow them (e.g. leave the area, go indoors, close windows) and do not wait for further confirmation.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-phone-alerts

1. 1Learn the emergency function – At home, read in the settings how the emergency function is triggered, whether it calls automatically and which contacts are notified.
2. 2Save battery – Turn on power saving, lower brightness, close unnecessary apps.
3. 3Use the light deliberately – At night give SOS with the torch function (··· ––– ···) when you hear or see rescuers.
4. 4Use sound – A loud alarm or ringtone can guide searchers at short range if you cannot shout.
5. 5Screen as a mirror – In sunshine the switched-off screen can reflect light – weaker than a real signal mirror, but better than nothing.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-phone-as-signal

1. 1Choose a signal method – A whistle carries further than the voice and saves energy.
2. 2Six signals per minute – For one minute, give a signal about every ten seconds – six in total.
3. 3One minute's pause – Pause for one minute and listen or look for a reply.
4. 4Repeat – Repeat the cycle until a reply comes or help arrives.
5. 5Recognise or give the reply – The reply is three signals per minute (about every 20 seconds), then one minute's pause.

Danger: If possible, call the local emergency number (112 in the EU) first. The distress signal is a tool for when there is no signal, or for additional location by people nearby.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-alpine-distress

1. 1Position yourself visibly – If safely possible, stand on open ground facing the helicopter, against as contrasting a background as possible.
2. 2'Y' – help needed – Raise both arms diagonally upwards and hold them still.
3. 3'N' – no help needed – Raise one arm diagonally upwards and stretch the other diagonally downwards.
4. 4Secure the landing area – As the helicopter approaches, hold or weigh down loose objects, keep your distance, protect head and eyes; kneel with your back to the wind…
5. 5Wait for the crew – Only approach when the crew invites you to, and only from the front within the pilot's view.

Danger: Rotors are deadly, especially the tail rotor. Never approach from behind or from the uphill side; only on a signal from the crew, crouched and within the pilot's view.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-helicopter-signals

1. 1Carry the whistle within reach – Attach the whistle to your jacket or pack strap so you can reach it even when injured.
2. 2Whistle in a rhythm – Give short, strong blasts in a recognisable rhythm – in the Alps the alpine distress signal, elsewhere often three blasts – and listen…
3. 3Aim the mirror – Extend one arm and form a V with two fingers around the target.
4. 4Sweep the horizon – Even without a visible target you can slowly sweep the light spot across the horizon or along distant paths.
5. 5Stop once answered – When you get a reply, stop signalling or use it only to help locate you, and follow the rescuers' instructions.

Danger: Signalling aids complement an emergency call. As soon as you have signal, call the local emergency number (112 in the EU).

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-whistle-mirror

1. 1Choose an open area – Find an open, preferably level area that is easily visible from above: clearing, meadow, snowfield, beach – without hazards such as…
2. 2Create contrast – Lay dark material on light ground or light on dark: branches and stones on snow or sand, an emergency blanket or light tarp on grass; stamp…
3. 3Large, simple signs – Form a simple sign such as 'SOS' with straight lines, as large as possible.
4. 4Secure the material – Weigh down sheets and blankets with stones so wind or rotor downwash cannot tear them away.
5. 5Signal actively when aircraft approach – When you hear aircraft, additionally attract attention with a mirror, light or body signals.

Danger: Signal fires only where safe and permitted – mind wildfire danger and fire bans (check local rules). A fire out of control endangers you and others.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-ground-to-air

1. 1Choose the site – Find an open spot clearly visible from above (clearing, knoll, gravel bar) with mineral soil, away from overhanging branches and dry grass.
2. 2Prepare the fire – Build tinder, kindling and fuel ready to light and cover it against rain.
3. 3Three fires (if possible) – If you have enough material and safe ground, prepare three fire sites in a triangle with clear spacing.
4. 4Light only when needed – Light it as soon as you hear or see an aircraft or rescuers.
5. 5Supervise and extinguish – Never leave the fire unattended.

Danger: A signal fire can start a wildfire that endangers you and others. Only on open, non-flammable ground, away from trees and vegetation, never in strong wind or drought. Observe fire bans and local rules.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-signal-fire-smoke

1. 1Get into a visible position – Move to a spot with a clear view towards where help may come from (knoll, clearing, shore) without putting yourself in danger.
2. 2Send SOS – Three short flashes, three long (about three times as long), three short.
3. 3Aim the light – Point the lamp at possible observers or sweep it slowly across the horizon.
4. 4Ration energy – Signal at intervals and whenever you hear or see something.
5. 5Switch once answered – Once you are spotted, stop flashing towards rescuers; light up your position steadily and follow instructions.

Danger: Never shine powerful lamps or lasers directly into an aircraft cockpit. Crews often use night-vision devices and can be dazzled; pointing lasers at aircraft is illegal in many countries. Once spotted, point the light at the ground or at yourself.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-light-sos

1. 1Fix the call for help – Agree: three short, strong blasts, pause, repeat = 'I need help'.
2. 2A few group signals – For example one blast = 'Where are you? / Attention', two blasts = 'Come to me'.
3. 3Agree on a reply – Decide how to reply (e.g. the same signal back) so the caller knows they have been heard.
4. 4Practise with children – Children should know: if you are lost, stay where you are and blow the whistle – you will not be in trouble.
5. 5Pause to listen – Listen after each group of blasts.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-whistle-codes

1. 1Choose an open spot – Clearing, knoll, shore, snowfield – where you can be seen from above and from the sides.
2. 2Lay out flat – Spread the cloth or emergency blanket flat and weigh it down with stones.
3. 3Raise a flag – Fix a piece of cloth to a long stick at a raised point – visible even while you rest.
4. 4Wave when something approaches – When you hear or see an aircraft, wave the cloth in large arcs.

Danger: Loose cloths, tarps and emergency blankets can be lifted by a helicopter's rotor downwash and endanger the aircraft. Gather them up or weigh them down firmly when it approaches.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-bright-panels

1. 1Emergency call or message – If the phone works: call the emergency number or send a message to trusted contacts with your location as precisely as possible (building…
2. 2Protect yourself – Cover your mouth and nose, breathe calmly, avoid unnecessary movement.
3. 3Tap – Tap steadily with a hard object on a pipe, beam or wall, for example three knocks, pause, repeat.
4. 4Whistle – If you have one, give three blasts at intervals.
5. 5Shout only when close – When you hear helpers, shout and answer.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-trapped-signalling

1. 1Try the emergency call – Call the emergency number; if that is not possible, send a message to trusted contacts with the address and number of people.
2. 2Choose a safe, visible spot – The highest floor you can reach with a window or balcony facing the street or the water.
3. 3Hang out a bright cloth – Hang a sheet or cloth out of the window; if possible write 'SOS' or 'HELP' in large letters and the number of people on it.
4. 4Move when in sight – When a boat, vehicle or helicopter comes into view, wave clearly with the cloth or your arms and blow your whistle.
5. 5Light at night – Flash a torch or phone light at intervals – save the battery.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-signals-from-buildings

1. 1Know the signals – Key distress signals: MAYDAY by radio, SOS (light or sound), red flares, orange smoke, slowly raising and lowering both outstretched arms…
2. 2Carry suitable equipment – What must or should be on board depends on boat type, area and country.
3. 3Check before setting out – Check expiry dates, batteries and access: signalling equipment must be reachable even if the boat capsizes.
4. 4In an emergency – First a distress call by radio or phone, then visual signals when ships or aircraft are in sight.

Danger: Pyrotechnic signals (hand flares, rockets, smoke signals) are dangerous: use, store and dispose of them only according to the manufacturer's instructions and local rules. Do not dispose of or set off expired signals yourself.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-sea-distress-overview

1. 1Stay put – As soon as you realise you are lost: stay in a safe place, ideally at the edge of a clearing or on a path.
2. 2Make yourself visible – Lay out bright clothing or cloth, keep a light ready at night.
3. 3Signal at intervals – Three whistle blasts, pause, repeat.
4. 4Answer – If you hear calls or whistles or see lights: answer at once and keep signalling until the searchers reach you.
5. 5Practise with children beforehand – Teach children: if you get lost, stay by a tree, blow your whistle and answer when someone calls – including strangers in rescue clothing.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-responding-to-searchers

1. 1Find an open spot – A clearing, meadow, ridge, snowfield or beach nearby – only if safely reachable.
2. 2Lay out contrast – Spread out bright or fluorescent clothing, pack, cloth flat; if possible a large ground signal.
3. 3Move when in sight – When you hear or see an aircraft or drone: wave with a cloth or both arms, use a signal mirror, flash a light at night.
4. 4Show you need help – Both arms raised diagonally (Y sign) means 'yes, help needed'; one arm up, one down means 'no'.
5. 5Wait for instructions – Once spotted, stay where you are, secure loose items and follow the crew's instructions.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-aerial-search-visibility

1. 1Equip – Hi-vis vest in the car within reach (not in the boot), reflective bands and a small lamp in your jacket or pack.
2. 2Put it on before getting out – After a breakdown, put the vest on inside the vehicle, then get out on the side away from traffic if possible.
3. 3Reflectors on moving parts – Reflective bands on ankles and wrists make movement recognisable.
4. 4Walk sensibly – On roads without a pavement, walk as local rules require – in many places facing oncoming traffic – in single file and at the edge.
5. 5Your own light – Switch on your lamp when vehicles approach; in a group, at least one light at the front and one at the back.

Danger: Even with a hi-vis vest, being on the carriageway is life-threatening. After a breakdown, wait behind the crash barrier or well away from the road if possible and call the local emergency number (112 in the EU) or breakdown service.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-reflective-visibility

1. 1Prepare a radio – Keep a radio with battery, rechargeable or crank power with your supplies and store matching spare batteries.
2. 2Note the stations – Write down the frequencies of regional public broadcasters on paper and keep the note with the radio.
3. 3Listen regularly – During an incident, listen to the news at set times instead of leaving the radio on constantly – this saves energy.
4. 4Follow instructions – Follow the authorities' instructions, e.g. on evacuation, sheltering indoors or help points.
5. 5Check regularly – Test the radio and batteries at regular intervals.

Danger: When life or health is at risk, always try to reach the local emergency number (112 in the EU); if that is not possible, follow the authorities' instructions about help points.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-radio-disaster

1. 1Register – Register the beacon with the responsible national authority and keep contact details up to date.
2. 2Check before the trip – Run the self-test only as the manufacturer describes; check the battery and expiry dates.
3. 3Carry it on your body – Carry the PLB on your body (vest, shoulder strap), not in a pack that could be lost in a fall or on the water.
4. 4Activate in an emergency – Deploy the antenna, activate the device, hold or place it with a clear view of the sky.
5. 5Leave it on and stay put – Leave the device on until rescued, stay in one place if possible and use visual and sound signals as well.

Danger: A PLB is intended for grave and imminent danger. After activation, leave it switched on, stay in one place and keep the antenna clear towards the sky as instructed.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-plb-beacon

1. 1Set up – Activate the service, store emergency contacts and medical notes, create preset messages.
2. 2Test – Before the trip, send a test message (not SOS) under open sky and have receipt confirmed.
3. 3Make arrangements – Agree with your contact when check-ins will arrive and what to do if they do not.
4. 4SOS in an emergency – Trigger SOS, place the device with a clear view of the sky, answer questions and conserve battery.

Danger: Trigger SOS mode only in genuine distress and then leave the device on. Answer the response centre's questions – type of emergency, number of people, injuries.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-satellite-messenger

1. 1DSC distress alert (if available) – Open the cover of the distress button and hold it until the alert is sent.
2. 2Channel 16, high power – Set the radio to channel 16 and high power.
3. 3MAYDAY message – 'MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY – this is [vessel name three times, call sign/MMSI] – MAYDAY [vessel name] – position – nature of distress …
4. 4Listen and repeat – Release the button after the message and listen.
5. 5Follow instructions – Follow the coast station's instructions, keep radio traffic short and conserve battery.

Danger: MAYDAY is only for grave and imminent danger to people or the vessel. For urgent but not life-threatening situations there is PAN PAN. Misuse is a punishable offence in many countries.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-marine-vhf

1. 1Wear it on your body – Wear the device in its harness under the outer layer of clothing, not in the pack.
2. 2Group check before setting off – Before every trip, check the battery and transmit/receive function of every device in the group as learned on the course.
3. 3Transmit on the way – During the trip the device stays on transmit.
4. 4In an emergency: alarm and search – Alert rescue, observe the debris, switch devices to search, search following the trained procedure, probe and dig.
5. 5Practise regularly – Practise several times each season, including multiple burials, as offered on courses.

Danger: A transceiver does not prevent avalanches. The most important measure is avoiding dangerous terrain: read the avalanche bulletin, assess the terrain, and turn back when in doubt.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-avalanche-transceiver

1. 1Set up – Set all devices to the same channel (and the same sub-code if used), agree a backup channel and write both on a card.
2. 2Agree call times – Agree fixed times (e.g. on the hour) when everyone switches on. This saves battery.
3. 3Listen before you talk – Before transmitting, listen briefly to check the channel is free.
4. 4Short and clear – Who is calling whom, the message, 'over'.
5. 5Emergencies have priority – If you hear an emergency, keep the channel clear and help, e.g. by alerting help by phone.

Caution: Radio is regulated by law. Which devices are licence-free, at what power and on which frequencies differs by country. Check local rules; devices bought in other countries are not automatically permitted.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-two-way-radio

1. 1Leave a trip plan – Give your route, alternatives, participants, equipment, vehicle and latest return time to a contact – with instructions on when to call the…
2. 2Stay put in an emergency – If someone knows about you and the place is safe: stay.
3. 3Prepare signals – Whistle around your neck, lamp within reach, cloth or ground signs laid out.
4. 4Stay reachable – Switch the phone on at agreed times or keep it in power-saving mode, answer callbacks, including unknown numbers.
5. 5If you must move: leave clues – Leave a note at the starting point with time and direction, lay arrows of stones or branches and stay on paths if possible.

Danger: If a phone has signal, first call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Visual and sound signals complement an emergency call; they do not replace it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-staying-findable

1. 1Start fully charged – Charge all devices and power banks before the trip, check spare batteries, pack cables.
2. 2Cut consumption – Power-saving mode, low screen brightness, unnecessary radios and background apps off.
3. 3Keep warm – Carry the phone and spare batteries close to the body (inner pocket), take them into the sleeping bag at night.
4. 4Fixed times – Without signal, do not let the phone search constantly: airplane mode and switch on briefly at agreed times – if a contact knows about this…
5. 5Leave the reserve untouched – Use the fixed emergency reserve only for emergency calls, location and contact with rescuers.

Caution: Set a reserve used only for emergency calls and rescue – e.g. one power bank or a minimum phone charge level – and stick to it.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-battery-planning

1. 1Plan beforehand – Agree a contact person outside the region whom everyone reports to. Store numbers on paper and in the phone.
2. 2Message first – After an event, send a short message: 'At [place], unhurt, will report at [time]'.
3. 3Keep calls short – If a call is necessary, keep it short and say the essentials first.
4. 4Share status once – One status update to the family or an agreed group saves many individual calls.
5. 5Save battery – Dim the screen, close unnecessary apps, check at agreed times.

Danger: In acute danger, do not rely on messages to relatives; call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). Do not use emergency numbers for general information.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/signals/sig-congested-networks