Survival is a fundamental instinct that lies within all of us. In times of uncertainty or challenging situations, knowing the keys to prioritizing our needs becomes crucial. That’s why I want to share with you the 7 priorities for survival. Whether you find yourself lost in the wilderness or facing a crisis, understanding these priorities can make a significant difference in your ability to stay safe and thrive. So, let’s explore the essentials of survival, ensuring you’re prepared for whatever life throws your way.
1. Water
Water is the most essential resource for your survival, and it should be your top priority when in a survival situation. Without enough water, your body’s function will be compromised and dehydration can quickly set in. Here are the 3 key aspects of water survival that you need to focus on:
1.1 Finding Water Sources
The first step in ensuring your survival is to find a source of water. Look for nearby rivers, streams, or lakes. If those are not available, you can also search for underground water sources such as springs or dig for water in dry riverbeds. It’s important to be cautious and avoid stagnant or polluted water sources, as they can lead to illness. Remember, cleanliness is crucial when it comes to water.
1.2 Purifying Water
Not all water sources are safe to drink directly. It’s important to purify the water before consumption to avoid waterborne diseases. There are several methods you can use to purify water, such as boiling it for at least 5 minutes or using water purification tablets or filters. If these options are not available, you can also resort to building a solar still to extract clean water from plants or using natural purification methods like evaporation and condensation.
1.3 Storing Water
In a survival situation, it’s essential to have a means of storing water for future use. Look for containers that can hold water, such as water bottles or bladders, and keep them clean. Make sure to collect and store more water than you think you’ll need, as it’s better to have an excess than to run out. Additionally, consider building rainwater collection systems to maximize your water storage capabilities.
2. Shelter
Having a shelter is crucial for protecting yourself from the elements and ensuring your safety and well-being. Here are the key aspects of shelter that you need to consider:
2.1 Building a Shelter
If you find yourself without any natural shelters, it’s important to know how to build your own shelter using the resources available in your surroundings. Look for sturdy materials like branches, leaves, and rocks to construct a shelter that will provide you with protection from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. Consider building a lean-to shelter or a debris hut, both of which are relatively simple to construct yet effective.
2.2 Finding Natural Shelter
If possible, try to find natural shelters such as caves, rock formations, or even fallen trees. These can offer immediate protection and save you the time and effort required to build a shelter from scratch. However, always exercise caution and ensure the safety and stability of the natural shelter before settling in.
2.3 Insulating the Shelter
Once you have a shelter, it’s important to insulate it to retain heat and stay warm throughout the night. Use insulating materials like leaves, grass, or even animal fur to line the interior of your shelter. Additionally, make sure to seal any gaps or openings to prevent drafts. Remember, staying dry and warm is crucial for your survival.
3. Fire
Fire is not only a vital source of warmth, but it’s also essential for cooking food, purifying water, and signaling for help. Here’s what you need to know about fire survival:
3.1 Starting a Fire
Starting a fire can be challenging, especially in adverse conditions. However, with the right knowledge and skills, you can increase your chances of success. Gather dry and flammable materials like twigs, leaves, and birch bark as tinder, and use a fire starter or a friction-based method like the bow drill or hand drill to generate the initial spark. Practice these skills beforehand to ensure you can start a fire when you need it the most.
3.2 Maintaining a Fire
Once you have a fire going, it’s important to maintain it by adding fuel and arranging it properly. Collect larger pieces of wood or logs to use as fuel, and layer them gradually to keep the fire burning steadily. It’s important to ensure a good airflow by arranging the wood in a teepee or log cabin structure. Remember to keep the fire under control and never leave it unattended.
3.3 Fire Safety
While fire is a valuable survival tool, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Make sure to choose a safe location for your fire, away from any flammable materials or overhanging branches. Clear the area of debris and create a fire ring or pit to contain the fire. Always have a means of extinguishing the fire nearby, such as a bucket of water or sand, and fully extinguish the fire before leaving the area.
4. Food
Having a source of nourishment is essential for your survival. While finding food in the wild can be challenging, it’s not impossible. Here are the key aspects of food survival:
4.1 Identifying Edible Plants
One of the safest ways to find food in the wilderness is by learning to identify edible plants. Familiarize yourself with common edible plants in your region and understand how to differentiate them from poisonous ones. Look for characteristics like distinct smells, identifiable leaves, or edible fruits. Remember to start with small quantities and gradually increase your intake to avoid any potential adverse reactions.
4.2 Hunting and Trapping
Another method of acquiring food is through hunting and trapping. Learn basic hunting techniques, such as constructing simple traps or snares, and understanding animal tracks and behaviors. If you have the necessary tools, such as a hunting rifle or a bow and arrow, utilize them cautiously and responsibly. Always prioritize your safety and be aware of local hunting regulations.
4.3 Fishing
If you have access to a water source, fishing can be an effective way to obtain protein-rich food. Learn how to make a basic fishing line using natural materials and how to create simple fishing hooks. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local fish species and their habitats to increase your chances of success. Don’t forget to check local fishing regulations if you’re in a restricted area.
5. Tools
Having the right tools can greatly enhance your chances of survival. Here are the key aspects of survival tools:
5.1 Essential Survival Tools
Certain tools are essential for survival. These include a knife, which has various uses from cutting materials to preparing food, and a multi-tool, which can serve multiple purposes in a compact form. Additionally, a sturdy and reliable flashlight, a compass, and a whistle are also crucial for navigation and signaling for help.
5.2 Improvising Tools
In a survival situation, you may not always have access to the necessary tools. That’s when improvisation becomes essential. Learn how to utilize natural resources to create makeshift tools. For example, use rocks to create a hammer, fashion a spear from a sturdy branch, or create cordage from plant fibers. Improvisation skills will significantly enhance your chances of survival.
5.3 Weaponry
While weaponry may not be necessary for survival in most situations, it’s important to understand how to handle and use basic weapons for self-defense or hunting purposes. If you have access to firearms, make sure you are familiar with their safe operation and follow all applicable laws and regulations. Otherwise, learn how to construct non-lethal weapons like bows, spears, or slingshots.
6. Navigation
Being able to navigate your surroundings is crucial for finding help or reaching safety. Here are the key aspects of navigation:
6.1 Reading Maps and Compasses
Having basic map reading and compass skills can greatly assist your navigation. Learn how to orient yourself using a compass and identify key landmarks or terrain features on a map. Understand how to read contour lines and navigate using a compass’ bearings. Practice these skills in different terrains to improve your navigational abilities.
6.2 Using Natural Navigation
If you find yourself without a map or compass, you can still navigate using natural elements. Learn how to use the sun’s position to determine directions, observe natural navigation signs like moss on trees or patterns formed by wind on rocks. Pay attention to animal tracks and migration patterns, as they can lead you to water or civilization.
6.3 Signaling for Help
In a survival situation, it’s essential to know how to signal for help. Use tools like a whistle, a mirror, or brightly colored fabric to attract attention. Create visible signals on the ground using rocks or branches. If you have access to fire, create a large and smoky fire to create a visible signal from a distance. Knowing how to signal effectively can greatly increase your chances of being rescued.
7. First Aid
Injuries and illnesses can occur in any survival situation, which is why basic first aid skills are crucial. Here are the key aspects of first aid:
7.1 Basic First Aid Skills
Understand the fundamentals of first aid, such as assessing and stabilizing a patient’s condition, performing CPR, and managing bleeding. Learn how to apply bandages or dressings to wounds, and how to immobilize fractures or sprains. Basic first aid knowledge can make a significant difference in an emergency.
7.2 Treating Common Injuries
Be prepared to treat common injuries that may occur in a survival scenario. This includes burns, bites, cuts, and sprains. Understand the appropriate first aid techniques for each injury and be equipped with basic medical supplies like bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers. Prioritize cleanliness and infection prevention when treating injuries.
7.3 Medical Supplies to Carry
Carrying a basic first aid kit with essential medical supplies is highly recommended. Include items like adhesive bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and pain relievers. Tailor your first aid kit to your specific needs and the potential risks of the environment you might find yourself in. Carry any necessary personal medications as well.
Remember, these are just the basic principles and guidelines of survival. It’s important to continually educate yourself and practice these skills to increase your chances of survival in any situation. Preparation, knowledge, and remaining calm are key factors that will greatly contribute to your overall ability to survive. Stay safe, be well-prepared, and keep a positive mindset in the face of adversity.