Interesting tidbit on CNN about a half hour ago.
Soledad O'Brien was interviewing a guy from the National Parks Service...your typical not-very-enlightening rehash of what's already been known about the boy's time in the woods.
However, CNN made time in the interview for her to ask the guy about what people could carry to be found and survive if lost in the woods.
He mentioned a whistle, then said some other good things that could be easily carried include a flashlight or glowstick, a signal mirror, extra clothing/water/food, and perhaps Goretex. She said "so basically carry a big backpack?"
And he said no, basically most of this can be carried in your pockets, perhaps in the pockets of a Goretex coat tied around your waist.

Any of this advice sound familiar? <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Anyway, he went on to say that other good advice is to plan out what family members will/should do in case of problems in the woods, and tell kids to stay in one place if lost, avoid getting wet/find shelter, or learn how to devise a shelter (he couldn't really go into much detail, but gave the example of getting under a rock overhang).

And if a kid hears a helicopter searching overhead, they should learn to find a clearing if possible, and make themselves large and visible, and move.

Overall, a lot more good info packed into one of these usually vague and pointless morning chats.