Fascinating story in the details. As a once-upon-a-time avid SAR volunteer, I am struck by the technology brought to bear in an intensive search these days - heat imaging, cell tower pings, etc.

But it still comes down to the fundamentals - willing boots on the ground and lots of hard work, including background investigation.

The suggestion about road flares is pertinent. Not only a signaling device, they make pretty good fire starters, even in wet conditions. Fires tend to draw the attention of search teams. Always be able to start a fire - signal,warmth, and possibly even a warm cup of coffee...