Everyone of us has a unique odor.  No two people smell the same to a dog. We can't see scent-it's invisible!  If you could see your scent you would like something like pigpen here, with your scent flowing all around you and settling down in places you have been.

Dogs can follow this scent that you leave behind.  We call this trailing or tracking. We need to have something you have worn or handled so we can give the dog your unique scent. 

It is very scary to be lost in the woods, especially at night!  There is nothing to be afraid of in our woods.  Very soon there will lots and lots of people looking for you!

    Until we can find you, here are some things you can do to keep yourself safe and to help us find you fast!

    Stay in one place, don't run around.  You can get hurt running and get farther away from the searchers.

    Don't be afraid of noises.  The animals in our woods are afraid of humans.  If you hear a noise, YELL  at it.  If it's an animal, it will run away, or if it is a searcher they will find you!

     If you hear a helicopter overhead, go to a clearer area and lie down.  This will make you look "BIG" to the pilot and easier to see.  If you have on white underwear, take them off and wear them over your other clothes-white is easier to see.

     There will friendly strangers looking for you with dogs you do not know.  You can answer them and not be afraid.  They are there to help you. Their dogs are very friendly and will be wearing bright orange or blue vests and will sometimes have bells or lights on them. Do not worry that you will be in trouble for being lost.  Your mom and dad will be very happy to see you!

    When you go out for hikes into the woods or just to go playing you should carry a brightly colored garbage bag, (to use to stay warm and dry in) a whistle and a snack. These things can easily fit in your pockets.