S T O P

STOP Take a deep breath, sit down if possible, calm yourself and recognize that whatever has happened to get you here is past and cannot be undone. You are now in a survival situation.

THINK Your most important asset is your brain. Use it! Don't Panic! Think first, so you have no regrets. Move with deliberate care. Take no action, even a footstep, until you have thought it through.

OBSERVE Look around you. Assess your situation and options. Take stock of your supplies, equipment, surroundings and the capabilities of the group.

PLAN Prioritize your immediate needs and develop a plan to systematically deal with the emergency. Make a plan. Follow your plan. Adjust your plan only as necessary to deal with changing circumstances.