Years ago, while I was still in the Air Force (non-rated), I took my pop, may he RIP, up for a scenic out of North Myrtle Beach, SC. I started losing power less than 200agl after takeoff in a Warrior II and noticed the oil pressure rapidly dropping to 0. There was nothing in front but tall Pines and a jam packed parking lot at the Barefoot Traders.

I have always been taught that you land straight ahead, but that was death and dismemberment. I did have partial power when I initiated the turn back to the field, but the prop seized maybe 20 deg into the turn. I continued a 180, to line up to ditch in the Intracoastal, radioed, and started getting set up. That's when I noticed a small square opening in the woods at the back of the golf course adjacent the airport. I figured I could just make it and get slowed enough to minimize injuries. I got her around almost 270 deg and came in just over the trees, got her down and pointed into a clear spot I had not seen from the air. We managed to stop without hitting anything or bending metal.

My point is that I agree - every situation will be unique - and you had better "do that pilot sh*t" and be fortunate enough to fly the airplane right and make the decisions that, with luck, get you down safely.

Oh, and firetrucks are really bad for golf courses.