Planning to go on an outdoor adventure? Use a buddy system.

SALT LAKE CITY — Several recent search and rescue responses involved a victim outdoors on their own.

Some first responders say that’s why having a “buddy system” is so important. 

“Have one person that’s able to get down and get to help if you don’t have cell phone service or can’t get through to our dispatch to let them know there’s an emergency,” Utah County Sergeant Dallin Turner said. 

Turner says if you do go alone, without using a buddy system, to always tell someone where you’re going, when you’ll be back, and not to push past your limits.

“Know your abilities, and if you feel like something’s getting above those… don’t be afraid to turn around, head back the way you came,” he said. 

Turner says many people who they’ve rescued were confident they didn’t need help, or didn’t want to bother others. However, he says to not ever hesitate to call for help.  

With the hot weather, Turner also says you always need to take more water than what you think you need.

If a situation occurs and you must wait for help, he recommends finding some shade. 

Read more:

• Potentially toxic algal bloom detected at Utah Lake
• Come on in, the water’s fine (but remember to wear a life jacket)