Good points, Alan. It rarely snows where I live, though. Terrain, climate, personal preferences, abililties, skills, and needs all have alot to do with.decisions of this type. Road flares are just overkill for me. Remember though, that's only for ME. We tailor what we tote to ourselves, just because something works for me, doesn't mean it works for everyone

Going solo is risky, but good planning and precautions can be taken. You can't always have somebody to hark at your beckon call to go on a trip for whatever reason in the wilderness for a couple of hours. So prior notifying of people is essential.

As for myself, I take the risk to enjoy wildlife, but I do let people know where I am going, when I will be back, stay in cell phone range. etc., etc, etc.

Life is full of risks. But I don't go out overnight alone, that is too risky for me. Remember this line?: "A man has got to know his limitations."