Emergency Location Markers (ELMs) are signs that provide coordinates for Emergency Responders, so the coordinates should be as accurate as possible.

This page describes the general process to follow for ordering ELMs.  If you have questions at any point in this process, please do not hesitate in contacting us for assistance.

• Before you order ELMs
• Ordering ELMs
• Decide on ELM Size
• Ordering an ELM for a single location
• Ordering a set of ELMs for multiple locations
• After you order ELMs

Before you order ELMs

1. Understand the U. S. National Grid System.  See the USNG Information Center Website for background information and training materials.
2. Contact Emergency Responders and 911 operators in your area to discuss use of ELMs in your area of interest.
3. Research the expected use pattern in your area of interest for ELM(s).  Where are incidents likely to occur? Where are key locations such as trail intersections and trail shelters?
4. Collect good quality GPS location information for those locations:

• Set your GPS readout to USNG (or MGRS), using NAD83 as datum.
• Make sure you have a RMS error of less than 10 meters, preferably 3 meters
• You may need to use GPS averaging (hold at one spot over a minute) to get a good quality location fix.
• If possible, save GPS locations as waypoints in the GPS, or record using other means.

Ordering ELMs

Once you have collected the location coordinates, you can order the ELM(s).  The first decision to make is the size of sign that will be most appropriate for your needs.  After that, the ordering process differs depending on the quantity of signs you are ordering:

Deciding on ELM size

 ELMs are offered in 3 different sizes intended for different purposes:

Ordering an ELM for a single location

1. Select the ELM sign product that meets your needs: 

• 12"x12" ELM
• 9"x12" ELM
• 6"x9" ELM

2. Fill in the required fields for the USNG Coordinates on the order form (see graphic at right).  Note that all 4 coordinates are required for "Fully Printed" ELMs, but only the first two coordinates are required for the "Partially Printed" ELM.
   1. Grid Zone Designation (e.g., 15T)
   2. 100 km Square ID (e.g., VK)
   3. Easting Coordinate Numbers (e.g., 8998)
   4. Northing Coordinate Numbers (e.g., 5988)
3. Add to cart and purchase sign.
4. Your sign will be made for you and shipped to you.
5. We'll follow up with an email and PDF with a map of the sign location.

Ordering a set of ELMs for multiple locations (e.g., for a trail)

1. Contact us about a multiple sign order to obtain a quote based on the number of signs you are ordering.
2. Send us a list of USNG coordinates in one of two formats:

• Spreadsheet with Coordinates in defined columns.  Use this USNG Sign Template.  Note that 10-digit USNG coordinates should be truncated to 8 digits; Do not round the numbers up or down.

3. Your signs will be made for you and shipped to you.
4. We'll follow up with an email and PDF with a map of the sign location.

After you order

1. Set your signposts and install the signs, using GPS to verify the correct location accurately.
2. Contact Emergency Responders and 911 operators in your area to alert them to the installation of your signs and to make them aware of their locations.