What action should you take if you realize you are lost while on patrol?

Contacting your unit leader for guidance is the most effective action to take if you find yourself lost while on patrol. The unit leader is equipped to assess the situation and provide the necessary direction or support to help you navigate back to your unit or ensure you are safe. Engaging with your leader can also help coordinate a search if needed, ensuring that you remain accounted for.

When operating in unfamiliar territory, it’s crucial to prioritize communication with your team, especially in potentially dangerous conditions. The leader can give specific instructions or strategies based on the operational context, which is critical for maintaining situational awareness and safety.

While using a compass to find north might seem like a logical alternative, this approach assumes that you still have a reliable understanding of your surroundings and the route to get back. Continuing to move in a random direction could lead to further disorientation, and staying put without alerting your unit leader might delay your rescue unnecessarily. Therefore, reaching out to your unit leader is the best course of action.