Reviewing my gear list got me to thinking about whistles and other alert/safety "beacons." Have you used a whistle in a hiking/backpacking situation? Was it effective? Would you use it again or something else? Your thoughts about the need/effectiveness of whistles? All input is welcome. And, yes, I'm soliciting your input for a possible entry for my wordpress blog. Your name would not be used in the story unless you ask for it to be. Best wishes and safe hiking! Wendigo.