Going missing, that too in the wild could be scary. Well, it might sound like an absurd thought. Still, for those who love to go out on an adventurous trip into the wilderness or any other remote place, far away from the human inhabitant, survival strategy is something that could be a life-saver in adverse situations.
Being human beings, we all are well-adjusted to the natural environment, and surely one of the fittest survivors of the mechanism of natural selection. From regular life to survival in the woods, planning, and presence of mind are the two key aspects to get away with safety. However, there are other important tips you should learn to stand your ground in the face of natural adversities.
Do Thorough Research And Planning
Most travelers, whether they are hikers, trekkers, or regular tourists, plan their itinerary well. This includes all dates, residences, and the transportations available for use during the journey. The hitchhikers or young adventurers often en route to a journey where they wish they lose themselves in the woods for the ultimate quest for tranquil natural serenity.
Also, many people often follow natural trails in camping activities to go deep inside a forest to stay overnight. So it’s important to plan your journey well before hitting the road. Fetch detailed information from the internet, and read reviews of prior visitors if available. The sole purpose is to know the area very well.
Watch Out For Drinking Water
In case you’re about to stay in secluded places for more than four days, the chances are high that you will run out of water and essential supplies. This is where adequate knowledge about the place will be useful. There are many wild edible plants in the dense forest region that you can consume to survive.
Also, possessing a clear idea about the water resources will probably keep you alive even without food. Get a map and mark the water resources in it. Don’t forget to boil the water to purify it or carry zeolite with you. Search for the edible flora and fauna on the internet or take a guide book if possible.9-
Let Others Know Where Exactly You’re Going
This is another highly recommended to-do stuff that you shouldn’t miss out on. Let your friends or relatives know where you are going and for how long you’re going to stay there before coming back.
In case you go missing, the people who should know your whereabouts can push the panic button to alarm the rescue teams. Over the years, this small tip helped many people to save their lives, including the sensational story of Aron Ralston.
Do Not Move Anywhere Without Leaving A Track Behind
Not all woods are the same. While rainforests are dense and moist, tundra or Mediterranean forests could be different. But one common thing is they all are confusing at times. The more you’ll go deeper, the more you’ll start losing your trail.
The outcome will be fatal as you might end up circulating the same place, again and again, falling into the death trap. Unless you strongly believe that you know the entire region well, leave your mark behind. You can always use the simple steps like keeping a pile of rocks somewhere or carve on trees to write your names’ initials.
Equip Yourself Before Entering The Woods
As you’ve no control over the natural phenomena, it’s better to be equipped adequately with survival gear before the adventure. Stuff like a sleeping bag, strong cords, a sharp knife, waterproof outfits could help you stay safe in the wild.
A compass will guide you to stay on your path while also determining the direction by pointing the stars on a clear night sky. Always keep a few boxes of fire matches with you and keep them dry. In case you get lost, you can create a bonfire to signal the rescue team or keep the predators away at night.
Surviving is a primitive art that requires the utmost courage and resilience to perform. But above all, you need to keep the hope alive inside yourself that you’re going to make it alive. Never forget that human is one of the fittest species to triumph over the natural odds and you’re the one fine human being to represent your race.