Texas Hunter Education Certification Practice Exam

What should you do if you get lost while hunting?

1. Keep moving and look for help

2. Set up a shelter and stay put

3. Try to hunt your way back

4. Leave your gear behind to lighten your load

The correct answer is: Set up a shelter and stay put

If you get lost while hunting, the best course of action is to set up a shelter and stay put. This approach significantly increases your chances of being found and keeps you safe in an unfamiliar environment. By remaining in one location, you make it easier for searchers to locate you, as they can use your last known position as a starting point. Additionally, staying in one place conserves energy and provides a chance to evaluate your situation, regain composure, and potentially signal for help. Building a shelter offers protection from the elements and can help maintain your body temperature, allowing you to wait for potential rescuers without jeopardizing your safety by wandering further into unknown areas. In the context of other choices, keeping moving without a plan can lead you further away from safety or a recognizable landmark. Attempting to hunt your way back may also be risky, as it can lead to disorientation and exhaustion. Leaving your gear behind, although it sounds reasonable to lighten your load, can deprive you of essential survival items that might aid in your situation. Thus, remaining put and establishing a shelter is the most prudent choice when lost.