Quick Answer
If you can't transmit your location during a call, use your best judgment to describe your surroundings, mention landmarks, and provide any other relevant information that can help the recipient pinpoint your location.
Describing Your Surroundings
When describing your surroundings, be as specific as possible. Share the names of nearby towns, rivers, or mountains. If you’re in a urban area, mention the nearest major intersections, buildings, or street names. The more information you provide, the better the chance of rescuers understanding your location. For example, if you’re near a river, say “I’m on the east bank of the Colorado River, just south of the confluence with the Salt River.”
Providing Landmark Information
Mentioning landmarks can also help rescuers understand your location. This could be a notable building, a mountain peak, or even a distinctive rock formation. For example, if you’re near a prominent mountain, say “I’m at the base of Mount Whitney, about 5 miles south of the summit.” The more details you provide, the easier it will be for rescuers to locate you.
Using Coordinates and Grid References
If you have a GPS device or a map, try to provide your exact coordinates or grid reference. This can be especially helpful if you’re in a wilderness area or a remote region with limited landmarks. Use the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) grid system or the Military Grid Reference System (MGRS) to provide precise coordinates. For example, you might say “My GPS shows I’m at 37.6543° N latitude and 119.4442° W longitude.”
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