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How to use a signal mirror

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There are two main ways to use a signal mirror, depending on the type you have:

Basic Mirror (without aiming sight):

  1. Find the Sun: The key to using a signal mirror is sunlight. Make sure you have a clear line of sight to the sun and your target (rescue aircraft, search party, etc.).
  2. Catch the Reflection: Hold the mirror flat in front of you, like a small shield. Carefully adjust the angle until you see a bright reflection of the sun on the mirror’s surface. Try not to block the reflection with your fingers or hat.
  3. Aim and Flash: Once you have the sun reflected on the mirror, use your other hand to create a V shape with two fingers. Move the mirror so the reflected sunlight hits the center of the V. Now, with small motions, sweep the reflection back and forth across your target. This flashing will be more noticeable than a steady reflection.
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tony Fancher, 355th Operations Support Squadron survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist, instructs Airman 1st Class Andrew Stranger, 355th Operations Support Squadron intelligence analyst, how to confirm his location with a signal mirror to an A-10C Thunderbolt II flying ahead during a joint training exercise at a southern Arizona military training range Jan. 20, 2015. Stranger was simulating a downed pilot during the close air support and combat search and rescue training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Chris Massey/Released)

Signal Mirror with Sighting Hole:

  1. Locate the Sighting Hole: Most dedicated signal mirrors will have a small hole in the center, surrounded by a sighting grid or pattern.
  2. Find Your Reflection: Hold the mirror up with the reflective side facing you. Look through the sighting hole and locate your own reflection in the center of the mirror.
  3. Align the Sight: You should see a bright dot of light (from the sun reflecting through the hole) on your reflection’s face or chest. This indicates where the reflected sunlight is currently pointed.
  4. Target and Flash: Keeping your eye on the sighting hole, tilt and rotate the mirror until you see your target through the hole. At the same time, make sure the bright dot of light is still centered on your reflection. Now, slowly sweep the mirror back and forth to create a flashing signal towards your target.

Here are some additional tips for using a signal mirror:

  • Practice Makes Perfect: Like any tool, it’s wise to practice using your signal mirror before you find yourself in a real emergency situation. Get comfortable aiming and flashing the reflection.
  • Signal in Intervals: Don’t continuously flash the mirror. Use short bursts with pauses in between to conserve energy and give rescuers a chance to see your signal. The international distress signal is three flashes, pause, three flashes, pause, three flashes.
  • Be Patient: It can take time to attract attention, especially over long distances. Keep trying and be persistent, but also be sure to conserve your energy.

Remember, a signal mirror is a valuable tool for attracting attention in an emergency situation, but it’s important to know how to use it effectively. Consider practicing beforehand and following these tips to maximize your chances of being seen.