Getting ready for mushrooms in the woods? The Ministry of Internal Affairs recalled the main security rules

Every day, alarming reports come to the police from different parts of Belarus: mushroom pickers went to the forest and did not return. Most often, elderly rural residents (over 70 years old) are lost, and such situations often turn into a serious threat to their health and even life.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs takes the issue of finding people lost in the forest seriously: the agency implements a whole range of organizational and practical measures. For effective searches, close cooperation has been established with the Emergencies Ministry units and representatives of the public.

What to take with you and how to prepare for a trip to the forest

To protect yourself during a trip for mushrooms, it is important to think through all the details in advance:

• Tell your family which route you plan to take and when you will return.

Take a mobile phone with a fully charged battery - it is better to additionally grab an external battery.

• Go to the forest not alone, but with your partner.

Choose the right equipment: clothes should be bright and waterproof, and shoes - durable and comfortable.

Put in the backpack a supply of water and food, if necessary - the necessary medicines.

• Useful will be a flashlight, whistle, knife, matches, lighter and watch.

What to look for when entering the forest

Before you delve into the thicket, look around and remember major landmarks nearby – for example, a power line, road or clearing;

Try not to cut through unfamiliar terrain, especially through marshy areas, and avoid chaotic movement - this greatly increases the risk of getting lost.

Life hacks from EMERCOM: how not to get lost in the forest and what to do in case of emergency

If you are lost: an algorithm of actions

The main thing is to stay calm. Act according to plan:

Call your family immediately, and then dial one of the emergency numbers: 101, 102 or 112.

• Stay in place and, if possible, make a fire - it is better to be located in the open area: so rescuers will be easier to notice you.

Periodically give sound signals – you can loudly call for help or knock a stick on a tree.

• Listen to the surrounding sounds: the noise of the road, the hum of the engine, the signals of special equipment, the buzzing of the drone or the screams of rescuers - this will help you navigate.

• If you decide to go out on your own, do not do it in the dark. Choose a visible target, mentally draw a straight line to it and move strictly in this direction.

What to do if a loved one does not return from the forest

If the friend did not come at the appointed time, immediately report it to the police. Do not try to organize an independent search and do not postpone the call - prompt appeal for help can save a person's life.

Read also:

How not to meet a bear and what to do if he is near: advice from the Ministry of Forestry

Photo: MIA