Always carry maps and a 360 degree compass with base plate at minimum. A Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver unit, cellular phone, satellite phone or handheld radio—all with fully charged batteries—are also valuable tools. Know how to use these items, but don’t rely on them. Having a charged cell phone on hand may be your priority, but this can change quickly when faced with the prospect of being lost. Many areas of Nova Scotia have little to no coverage, and batteries run down fast. Cell phones won’t keep you warm or well nourished, and they can’t help you navigate out of a situation if they don’t work. The sun, landmarks, and other land formations are equally useful navigation tools, so keep your cell phone powered off and pay attention to the natural features around you.