Survival Tips

Using A Map & Compass

Basic Survival Equipment

A Strong Knife Is A Survivor's Best Friend

1) Tell someone.

Notifying others where you are going and when you will be back is very important. In case you are stranded in the wilderness, at least someone has an idea where you are. If you don't return as expected, you may anticipate help. If you do change location of hiking at the last moment, tell someone of the situation. That way, rescue is faster.

2) Never hike (or hunt) alone.

If there is an emergency situation, you have someone near you for aid. For example, Hypothermia can slowly and unknowingly affect you. If you have people around, they may recognize the symptoms of hypothermia before you do.

3) Carry enough food for two days.

Say you are hiking in a valley, and the trail you are taking crosses a river. It begins to rain upstream, and you are stranded on the banks of a raging river. You are forced to wait for the night. If you have adequate food and water, you may be able to last for a few days. Normally, a person requires 8 cups of water a day. However, if you are undergoing strenuous activity, your body may require more. Rain, dew, snow, and ice are all sources of water. Also note that a person will survive longer without food than water. Anticipation is the best possible course for prevention, in case of a survival situation, you are prepared.

4) Take along 2 compasses and a map of the area.

Know how to use these items. A map and compass is extremely valuable. Knowing where you are at all times is valuable. You do not need to get more lost than you already are.

Click here for how to use a map and compass.

5) Wear proper equipment and clothing.

Nothing that the weather can change at any given moment. Weather is unpredictable, and it is imperative that you prepare for such unpredictability. Always carry raingear and (if possible) spare clothing. Layering clothes is a good idea, in any event.

Click here for basic survival equipment.

6) Plan your hike (or hunt) so that you return at least an hour before dusk.

Avoid travelling in the dark. By sitting down and waiting till you can actually see, you prevent further catastrophe. If you wander around in the darkness, you may get even more confused and panicky. This is also a good opportunity to sit down, plan, and prepare for rescue.

7) Know how to build a fire and have the materials to start them.

A fire is soothing and warms you up. You give yourself time to think of where you are, what you should do. You can bring out your materials and figure out your location. If you have a topographical map, as suggested on my Hiking Exploration and Safety page *there's that page again*, then you have an even better idea of the area layout. Don't forget to put out your fire.

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