I think much needs to be considered when choosing to use a fire as a rescue signal. Here in Virginia, it's been pretty wet, the area he was in is not surrounded by homes and is in a fairly rugged area. We really don't know any facts about the fire other than one was set. But, yes, TomD, I do agree some common sense is in order when using fire for rescue.

The story of the lost hunter sounds as though he didn't set a fire on purpose, just that his flare began the fire. I never would have thought a flare could do that. But California is a tinder box, anyway. Thanks for the info.

I wonder if he had a map and compass with him?