Before you leave, find out about the area you're going to explore. Bring a good map, and check the weather forecast. Tell others your intended route and timetable. Never travel alone, and always stay with your group. You may need to bring water, especially if the weather is hot.
Early detection can mean the difference between a safe trip and a life threatening situation.
The Canada Safety Council recommends that anyone venturing into the wilderness should bring along visual and audible distress signals in the event they become lost or need help. If you like to venture into the wilderness, whether on foot, by water or on a vehicle such as an ATV, invest in a wilderness survival kit. They come in different levels, with components suitable for the day hiker up to the veteran adventurer. These are minimum measures. There are many suggested equipment checklists, but no single list covers every circumstance.