Many times one does not have a precise target, nor is one attempting to employ Morse code, but simply paints an area with blinding flashes. In my most successful and dramatic use of a signal mirror, we were attempting to define our location to a helicopter about eleven miles distant, about to take off. We were in radio contact, which probably made a difference.

All I knew was that the chopper was somewhere on Davis-Monathan AFB, which was a distant gray smudge in the somewhat smoggy Tucson atmosphere, hence there was no real, defined target. After a flash or two, just a matter of seconds, I had confirmation that they had spotted us, and a routine helo evac of our patient ensued - a good way to start the day.

This was a few years ago, and I do not recollect what mirror I was carrying, or the technique I employed. I own everything from a mil-spec 3"x5" to glorified shaving mirrors. These days I usually pack a 2x3, for weight considerations.

It seems to me that if one is using a less precise aiming technique, one should compensate by flashing early and very, very often - no significant additional effort is involved.

I always carry a mirror of some sort with me. When I need to signal, especially at a distance, it will be mirror by day and fire by night, supplemented with a whistle.