Directions - Daytime
Who here is planning to rely on the GPS in their car for directions on how to get to places, if things go seriously south?
Okay, that may be kind of funny on the face of it. But if there is a general emergency, the chances are high that the GPS system, if still in orbit, will be reserved for ‘non-public’ uses. And I’m wondering if many cars will be running for very long.
So back to maps and compasses. Except who knows how to use either of those any more?
Fortunately, it’s not that hard. And actually, I think it’s easier without a compass.
Just a couple of basic rules, and you’ll be able to find your way around most places, most of the time.
The sun rises in the East
The sun sets in the West
Stand with your right hand pointing to where the sun rises, and your left hand to where the sun sets.
You are facing approximately North. (You’ll be a few degrees off, because of the seasonal tilt of the earth, but it’s close enough for most purposes.)
South is in back of you.
Use this method to orient yourself to North where you live. And then maybe where you work, etc. Get a feeling for where North is.
Now when you hear a weather or emergency broadcast saying trouble is coming from a certain direction, you know how to go the opposite of that direction.
In the daytime, at least.
Next time, we’ll talk about how to find North at night.
