basic survival skills

I’ve always been somewhat paranoid.  By ’somewhat’ I mean ‘completely’. 

This facet of my personality has served me well over the years.  It’s actually helped protect me from a wide range of things, from broken hearts to getting mugged (seriously). 

More importantly though, it’s made me think about the worst case scenarios that could play out in society (both natural disaster wise, and mankind gone martial law wise).

For this reason, I thought it would be good to share some basic survival skills that could prove helpful if the proverbial shit hits the proverbial fan.

There are 5 basic elements of survival:

FIRE

• Purifies water
• Cooks food
• Keeps predators at a distance

Tips:

• Always have two ways of starting a fire with you. 
• One on your person at all times, and one with your gear.
• Collect firewood you think you will need for the night and then collect the same amount again
• Conserve fuel by making a “star fire” where the ends of large logs meet in the fire only, push inward as more fuel is needed.

SHELTER

• Protects you from the elements

Tips:

• Always have a hat
• Clothing is the first line of shelter protection; Try and keep the layer closest to your body dry.
• Layers trap air and are warmer than one thick garment
• Practice building a quick lean-to shelter in case you can not find your campsite, do not wait until you need to make one

SIGNALING

• The means and ability to alert any and all potential rescuers that you are in need of HELP

Tips:

• Fire, flashing light, bright color markers, flags, mirrors, whistles all will help you be found
• Three fires in a triangular form are a recognized distress signal
• Make smoky fire with organic material over the fire during the day to attract attention

FOOD / WATER

• The most basic of human survival needs

Tips:

• Try to drink only in the cool of the evening
• You can live up to three days without water
• DO NOT eat plants you do not know
• Pack energy bars and candy in your pockets at all times, just in case
• Have some poly zip bags to collect and store water

FIRST AID

• Not just the basic medical needs, it is the primary way in which you act to survive

Tips:

• DO NOT PANIC, remain calm and do what you have to do to take care of YOU
• STOP means Sit, Think, Observe, and Plan. It is the most intelligent thing you can do when you realize you are lost or stranded
•  The most important element is to keep your brain functioning rationally
• Most survival situations require only dressing for small cuts, bruises and personal medication needs
• Concentrate on being found, pack a picture of your family in with your gear to remind you of the reasons to remain calm and to survive

Via Adventure Sports Online