DISTRESS SIGNALS.

Waikato Times, Volume 119, Issue 19888, 18 May 1936, Page 12

DISTRESS SIGNALS.

| CODE FOR LOST TRAMPERB. A special code of distress signals for mountaineers and trampers who are in need of assistance was recently drawn up by the Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand after an extensive study had been made by a sub-commtitee into the particular requirements of New Zealand conditions, and in other parts of the world. There is a seperate system of signals to suit modern conditions of search by aeroplane. Signals to aircraft should be made with clothing, tents, blankets, branches, stones, or anything else of a similar nature. If possible, the signals should be kept clear of shadow, trees, or high rocks, and should contrast to the greatest extent possible with the colour of the background. Ground Signals. The party that is in need of help should attract the attention of a pilot by smoke or Hash signals on the ground to indicate the message lie wishes to convey. The sign for a party in need of help is an L, and for i a party wanting information as to a route the signal N. indicating crossroads. The signal that a doctor is required is two parallel lines, indicating a stretcher. If no help is required the T sign is used, indicating “ all right.” A pilot who has observed and read the ground signals should acknowledge the fact by repeated circling and/or dropping coloured papers. Coloured paper will also be dropped to indicate to land searchers the location of the lost party. To indicate the direction the lost party should take the aeroplane should circle over the party and then fly in the general direction the party is to take. The manoeuvre should be repeated several times. If land searchers are to return home, coloured streamers should bo flown from the aeroplane. The value of these signals was indicated particularly in a case some years ago, when a party of trampers was .missing in the Tararua Ranges. A number of searchers were travelling along a particularly rugged part of the range when a rescue aeroplane, passing overhead, sighted them. Had i there been a recognised signal code, i the party could easily have indicated its

' message, a “T.” to the passing aeroplane. on a patch of snow nearby. In ! fact,, however, the aeroplane was forj ced to circle very low and at consider- : able risk, over the trampers, before a message “All Well” could be conj veyed. The Alpine Club's internationally recognised distress sign of six signals per minute, he., at the rate of every j ten seconds, and then a wait of a minute. Is now nfflcially recognised in New Zealand. Searching parties, in acknowledging recognition of the rnes-

sage, make three signals per minute, i.e., one every 20 seconds, but give no signal in alternate minutes. Smoko and Flashes. Signals may be made by Hashes ot torch or mirror, waving of a cloth, and by means of smoke. Instructions are given that a large tire should be lighted and then green leaves or wet wood placed "ii ii. The method "f signalling used by the \merican Indians ■could then be applied. A wet blanket is placed on the fire and the smoke is released at intervals. A yellow ling is the recognised signal that medical aid is required. Condy s crystals are especially recommended to be taken on all expeditions which might involve crossing snow. They are invaluable for making air signals for aeroplanes on the snow and for marking snow trails. In winter, the stain* will remain for dav*.