How to Use a Signal Mirror

Using a signal mirror is a handy way to call for help from a distance.  You might have tried something similar if you've used the shiny surface of a watch to reflect light in another person's eyes.  The same principle applies here: you direct the sun's light - reflecting off your mirror - to a specific location.  Maybe you're trying to signal an aircraft, or people on the ground, or maybe you're just aiming for the horizon, hoping someone will catch the signal.  In any case, Search and Rescue teams, those trained in the military, pilots, scouts, etc. are taught that a signal mirror is used to indicate distress and will recognize what your seemingly haphazard flashing means.

An official signal mirror is especially handy because it has a hole in the middle that allows you to see your target and see where your reflection (a bright spot in the viewer) will land, helping you to line the two up.  If you don't have an official signal mirror, don't fret.  Almost any shiny surface will work (like the little mirror on this whistle, or the shiny blade on this knife), but the shinier the better.

Here are some mirror signaling facts and tips:

• A mirror's reflection can be seen more than 20 miles away.  In ideal conditions, pilots have even reported seeing mirror signals just under 100 miles away!  But your best chance of catching someone's attention is within 15.  
• Try and keep your fingers away from the mirror's face to avoid cutting out any of your reflective power.  Also make sure no part of your mirror is shaded.
• A mirror made out of plastic is slightly dimmer and will scratch much easier than those made out of glass.  Keep it protected so you don't diminish its reflective surface.
• You should never shine the sun's light in someone's face at close range or it could damage their eyesight.  That being said, you should still practice using a signal mirror before you actually need it.  Direct the light towards inanimate objects to give yourself a feel for how it works.
• If you don't have a mirror with a viewer, hold out your hand as a guide.  Put your fingers out in a "v" shape and set the sight of your target right in the center of your fingers.  Aim your reflection to the center of the "v" (you'll see the light on your hand) but try and keep as little of the reflection on your fingers as possible.  The more light reflecting out, the more likely it will be seen.
• Most signals are seen from the air or from someplace high.  Aim for 
• To send a specific message, practice morse code!  A fast pass over your target makes a "dot" and a slow pass over your target makes a "dash."  Morse code can be transferred to a number of different mediums, but that is for another post.
• Here are two videos to give you an idea of what a signal from a mirror looks like: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qu4iJykziak&feature=youtu.be - at 11 miles away, and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JtfpaMiUqQ&feature=youtu.be - at 22 miles away.  Can you spot the signals?