For all those that love the ruggedness of being in the outdoors, it is essential to know some key survival skills for staying alive in the woods, which is a likelihood that adventure lovers need to be prepared for. The most important aspect of first aid training for survival in the wilderness is to remember to stay calm and not panic as it can lead to the brain fogging up and the person doing just the opposite of what is required to stay alive.
Essential kit planning: what every person needs to stay alive in the woods
A small bag is ideal for carrying the bare minimum essentials kit for staying alive in woods; these include a compass, a reliable flashlight, waterproof matches, pocket knife with two blades, extra clothes, extra high energy food and water, a map of the area, sunscreen and bug spray/ointment, long-burning candle or fuel tablets and a small first aid kit.
Possibilities in the wild: general guidelines for staying alive in the woods
- Experts advice that if you get lost, stay in one area instead of attempting a La Christopher Columbus and discovering ‘America’ as it is more likely you will lose track of where you are headed and step in to more danger. It also makes it more difficult for others to rescue you.
- Inform people beforehand about the route you plan to take when in the wilds and go according to a daily timetable set beforehand. Carrying an emergency whistle and signal mirror is a great survival idea that raises one’s chance of being found. As simple as it may sound, the glare from a mirror can be seen 20 to 30 miles over the horizon and is an excellent way for signaling help.
- Seek shelter early instead of waiting for it to turn dark or cold in the hope of finding your way around.
- Avoid panic and think, rest, drink water/fluids and relax the mind to reassure yourself you will survive.
- Try to protect yourself from the elements by crafting some kind of shelter to keep out the cold and wind and keep yourself as warm and dry as possible.
- Water, food and fire are lesser priorities as compared to staying warm and dry and it is possible to even survive without these too. The reason why shelter is high on the list for staying alive in the woods is because human beings can survive without water/fluids for 3 to 5 days at a stretch and longer without food; however, when at the mercy of nature, one can die in a matter of hours.
- During thunderstorms, avoid the largest tree and stay away from the crest of rocks and protruding boulders as these may act as lightning conductors. Avoid marshy areas and wide open areas.
- Give yourself two hours of daylight when possible to build or find shelter, firewood, water and look out for tree branches to make lean-to shelters or teepees.