No one wants to be in this situation, but it is important to know how to get home when stranded. Being stranded can happen to anyone, whether you’re at home or in a foreign country. It could mean finding yourself in an unfamiliar location, running out of money, or getting lost in a remote area where help is important.
This kind of situation can be frightening for anyone, as it exposes you to various risks like danger, assault, kidnapping, or even sexual assault. Here are the best things to do if you are in this situation:
- It’s important to remain calm and train your mind to control your emotions in such that condition. Reassure yourself that you will find a solution without panicking, as getting worked up won’t help solve the problem.
- When you find yourself stranded, it’s crucial to avoid impulsive decisions. Although fear and anxiety may overwhelm you, it’s important to stay alert and cautious. Making hasty choices without careful consideration is unwise. In such circumstances, it’s best to rely on your instincts rather than trusting unfamiliar individuals or strangers. Refrain from openly displaying your vulnerable situation in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable environment.
- A safe zone is a location or a group of people that you consider to be safe. It’s important to clarify that we are using the term “judge” instead of “trust” because you make a decision based on their appearance, age, and mood to determine if they are reliable or if it’s better to handle the situation on your own. These are individuals or places where you can seek help if needed.
Examples of safe zones can include churches, mosques, and police stations. Certain people can also serve as safe zones, such as a group of middle-aged mothers with children, a man and a woman walking together on the street, a man or woman accompanied by a child, or a group of women. It’s important to remember that safe zones can also become dangerous depending on the time of day. So, it’s essential to remain watchful and alert at all times.
Things To Do When You Are Stranded
When you find yourself stranded, there are actions you can take to improve your situation. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Seek Assistance
As we mentioned earlier, safe zones are places where you can seek assistance to answer how to get home when stranded. When you’re in an unfamiliar area or facing financial difficulties, it’s best to reach out for help. However, it’s not advisable to beg for car rides at bus stops or on the road. Instead, consider asking for rides from individuals who own businesses in the nearby vicinity rather than relying on strangers you encounter on the street.
2. Withdraw Your Money at POS Stand
If you find yourself completely out of cash or have had your wallet stolen, there is an option to withdraw money at any POS stand. Unlike ATMs that require debit cards, in Nigeria, you can make a transfer to the POS account instead. This means you can use the POS machine to withdraw money by transferring funds. In case your phone is missing or unavailable, you can borrow the phone of the POS operator to make a call and ask your family or friend to transfer money to you.
3. Have 2-3 Phone Numbers Memorized
It is essential for everyone to have at least two or three phone numbers memorized and stored in their memory. Mobile phones have become invaluable in our lives, as they store important information like notes and contacts.
However, when you lose your phone or someone stole your device, it can create significant problems, including the risk of becoming stranded. That’s why parents often encourage their children to memorize their phone numbers in case they get lost. This is the best way we can help ourselves in such situations.
How to Get Home When You Are Stranded in Nowhere
1. Attract Attention
If you find yourself stranded in a remote area and have no idea how to find a nearby town, one potential course of action could be to attract attention by creating a visible disturbance. Breaking or damaging an object might serve this purpose, as it could draw the attention of people who can help or provide assistance.
2. Contact National Emergency Number
If you find yourself stranded or lost in a remote location, it is advisable to call the national emergency number. Emergency lines operate 24/7 and are always available for assistance. It might come as a surprise, but even in countries like Nigeria, the emergency line is functional.
How to Get Home When Stranded in A Foreign Country
1. Find the Embassy
One of the best places to seek assistance is the embassy in the foreign country you are in. Embassies exist precisely for this purpose. While it’s possible that you may be deported to your home country, and you want to leave the country you are in, then seeking help at the embassy is the right course of action.
2. Seek Out a Homeless or Refugee Shelter
Another option is to search for a homeless or refugee shelter. If you are on a road trip and have had your belongings stolen, it’s advisable to seek assistance at such shelters. These shelters provide support to individuals in need, offering food and assistance to those who are homeless or displaced. If you find yourself in this situation, these shelters can be a valuable resource to turn to for help.
How to Get Home When Stranded in a Remote Area
If you find yourself stranded in a remote area, it’s crucial to know how to seek help. Having good preparation before such a situation arises can greatly aid in finding a way out. Here are some steps to follow:
- Inform others of your whereabouts and the fact that you are in trouble and may require assistance to return. Communication is key in letting people know about your predicament.
- Remain calm and composed to avoid panic, stay level-headed, and think clearly.
- Assess the situation and evaluate what steps to take. Consider your available resources and options.
- If you are unable to seek help on your own, contact emergency services by dialing 911 or the local emergency number. They can provide guidance and assistance.
- In case you don’t have cell phone coverage, make use of your car’s emergency alert system, if available, or walk to the nearest road to attract attention from passing vehicles.
- Remember, staying prepared, keeping a clear mind, and seeking appropriate help are vital when you find yourself stranded in a remote area.
Be Sure You Can Afford It
If you are planning to drive a vehicle alone, it is important to consider how you would manage getting back home in the event of a car breakdown. There are various circumstances that could lead to being stranded on the road. For instance, you may become lost without any means of communication. Or, you might run out of fuel and you have no choice but to walk or seek a ride from others.
If you do not own a car, it is essential to have a dependable plan in place to ensure you have a reliable way to get home in case of unforeseen circumstances. This might involve having access to public transportation, arranging for a reliable ride, or having emergency contact information readily available.
Consider the Potential Cost
If you are considering calling a cab or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get home, it’s important to be aware that the cost may be higher than expected. Before making a decision, take the time to compare the prices of different options and choose the one that best fits your budget.
Additionally, exploring alternative taxi services in the area, such as GoAhead or local taxi companies, could potentially offer lower prices. Taking these factors into consideration will give you a better understanding of the potential expenses involved when calling a cab.
Explore Local Services In Your Community
If you are considering filing a disabled access claim to secure transportation back home, there is a good chance that you are eligible to do so. Various disabilities, such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, or arthritis, can hinder your ability to drive. Depending on the specific disability, you may be able to file a claim with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
They can provide guidance and may refer you to driver’s licensing organizations that specialize in accommodating individuals with disabilities. Additionally, they can offer valuable information on accessing wheelchair vans or other forms of accessible transportation. It is worthwhile to reach out to these organizations to seek the appropriate support and direction for your transportation needs.
Explore The Option Of Renting a Car With a Free Mileage Allowance
If you are planning to use a vehicle for your trip, it is worth considering the option of renting a car that offers a free mileage allowance. With this type of rental, you are provided with a certain number of miles at no additional cost. If you exceed the allotted mileage, you will be charged a per-mile rate for the extra distance traveled.
Renting a car with a free mileage allowance can be beneficial if you find yourself stranded and need a reliable means to return to your hotel or vacation rental. It eliminates the concern of having to make your way back to the rental location to retrieve your belongings if needed. This option provides flexibility and convenience in managing your transportation needs during unexpected situations.
Utilize Ride-Sharing Services For Assistance
When you find yourself stranded in a location away from home, ride-sharing services can be a reliable and cost-effective option to ensure a safe journey back. However, it is essential to prioritize safety by thoroughly researching and selecting a reputable ride-sharing company that follows proper safety protocols.
When contacting a ride service, clearly communicate your location and the assistance you require. The service will then connect you with a driver based on your location and specific needs. Before finalizing your ride booking, ensure that the driver’s vehicle is insured and in good working condition. This ensures a safe and smooth ride. By exercising caution and choosing a reliable ride-sharing service, you can secure a convenient and secure means of transportation back home.
Ensure Your Emergency Kit Is Well-Equipped
Maintaining a well-stocked emergency kit is crucial, particularly for signaling your location to emergency responders. While cell phones are for reporting one’s whereabouts, it is important to have alternatives in case you don’t have access to a phone.
Consider including a small radio in your emergency kit that features a simple two-button alert system. These buttons come with raised surfaces. This allows for easy location and activation. By pressing these buttons, you can quickly alert emergency responders to your precise location. Having such a device on hand provides an additional way of communication. This increases your chances of receiving timely assistance in case of an emergency.
Ensure Your Vehicle Is Well-Maintained
Prior to embarking on a journey, it is crucial to ensure that your car is in optimal working condition. Create a comprehensive emergency plan that outlines necessary precautions. If there is a possibility of being stranded on the road, it is advisable to have essential supplies readily available in your vehicle. It can be a flashlight, blanket, water, snacks, and other necessary items.
For single mothers who may face unexpected car repairs or transportation-related expenses, car assistance programs can serve as valuable resources. Having good preparation for emergencies with a compact kit that you can easily store in your car and knowing where to seek assistance, single mothers can enhance their sense of security in handling unforeseen challenges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when stranded in a remote area, it is important to take certain steps to ensure your safety and find your way back home. Start by ensuring that your cell phone is full of battery and it works properly. If not, make sure to charge it and keep it with you. Check if there are any other communication devices or emergency equipment in your car. If not, write down your current location and the route you were taking. Take photos of the area and any distinctive landmarks.
If you have a smartphone, utilize its compass feature to help orient yourself. If you have a GPS device, use it to determine the location of your car and your phone. However, if you lack a cell phone and other necessary items, you may need to resort to creating a fire signal. Otherwise, try for finding ways to attract attention from potential rescuers. By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of getting help on how to get home when stranded.
Sources:
