Lookouts

Lookouts are observers and places designated to monitor a surrounding area in order to detect hazards, approaching entities, weather changes, or other significant events. The term can refer to both people assigned to watch and the elevated locations from which observation is conducted.

In maritime and military contexts, a lookout is a person stationed to spot ships, land, or dangers at sea or along coastal fortifications. Lookouts often work with binoculars or scopes and relay information via signals, radios, or other communication methods to help crews or commanders make timely decisions. In armed defenses, watchtowers or elevated posts provided fields of view over approaches and were integrated with signaling systems such as flags, lanterns, or alarms.

Forest and land management have popularized fire lookouts—tall towers or structures placed on high ridges to scan for smoke and fires. Lookouts in this role report sightings to dispatch centers to initiate suppression efforts. Many historic fire lookouts were built in the early to mid-20th century; some remain staffed as camps or museums, while others have been retired or repurposed with modern technology like aerial surveillance and sensors.

The term also covers civilian and recreational uses. Lookout points are scenic viewpoints along roads or trails that offer expansive views and may include shelters, signage, and safety features. These are maintained by parks or local agencies and serve tourism, education, and safety purposes by providing observation opportunities and weather or hazard information.

In contemporary practice, a lookout can also designate a person assigned to monitor risks during activities such as climbing, caving, or search-and-rescue missions.