Using a signal mirror may be the sole way to get out of specific situations in the wild — and I mean that literally. After all, the tool’s basic use is to find your way when you lose your way out there. Though small, this piece of gear can make a lifesaving difference when used appropriately.
What Is A Signal Mirror?
A signal mirror is a little lens created solely to help create awareness when in distress. Its commonest use in the wild is to call the attention of rescue parties, although it can be used to signal for help from a predator without making any noise.
A signal mirror comes with a hole, designed so because directing the sun’s reflection to far distances from midair can be difficult, whereas it is easy to do so from the ground. So, with the presence of the hole, there is the chance to bend & look through it as you stay close to the ground. This will help direct the reflection to wherever you wish to.
Conditions Necessitating a Signal Mirror
There are few reasons to have a signal mirror, as it is used for a limited host of purposes. However, what it lacks in number, it makes up for in importance.
A signal mirror should be used in two situations.
The first would be when you are lost & can’t make out anyway, nor can you see anyone in the distance. What you’ll need to do is sweep the area with the mirror, thus putting yourself in the view or whoever may be out there. For effective results, you may want to spell out SOS with the reflections.
The second situation involves you having already seen help, but help hasn’t seen you. In this instance, you can spot rescuers, but they can’t spot you. Flashing the light repeatedly across their path is sure to get their attention. No?
This means that you also need to watch for lights like this when you hit the wild.
Steps to Use a Signal Mirror
The advantage the signal mirror has over the ordinary mirror is the hole in the former’s middle, which directs reflection more accurately to signify your position. Here are the steps to use this gear successfully:
- Hold the mirror, aligning your fingertips with its edges. This will ensure that most of the reflected light gets to the target.
- Face the mirror directly in the face of the sun to create your desired reflection. You may close your eyes with your other hand while directing the light towards its target.
- Tilt the mirror to establish the reflection, after which you aim for where you’re sending it to. If your goal is an aircraft above, you’ll have to send it to the window.
- While directing, make sure that the center hole aligns with the bright side of sunlight. If the sun is not too bright on the horizon, stretch the mirror forward & aim at your target with an eyeshot.
Conclusion on Using a Signal Mirror
Using a signal mirror is, fortunately, an easy thing. Just ensure you have the gear with you when you hit the wild. Also, it must be on you at all times as you explore the woods. There’s no telling where you may get lost. By the way, the instructions to use the mirror are often inscribed on its non-reflective side to make reading easier.