Which item is crucial for signaling distress while in the wild?

A whistle is an essential tool for signaling distress while in the wild because it is loud, easily heard over long distances, and requires minimal effort to use. Unlike vocal signals, which can quickly become weak or fail, a whistle can produce a consistent sound without exhausting the user. Its portability makes it easy to carry, and it can be a reliable means of attracting attention without relying on visual signals, which may not always be effective in dense forests or other challenging environments.

Having food supplies, a map, or a brush, while important for survival or navigation, do not serve the same immediate function in distress signaling as a whistle does. A whistle can be a lifesaving device by increasing the chances of being located by rescuers quickly.