We never plan for a life-threatening situation to occur but it sometimes does without any chance for us to prepare. Not knowing how to handle ourselves during such an incident can actually pose an even greater threat to our lives. Here are some tips on how to survive in any situation where survival is threatened. Use the letters in the word “survival” to help you remember them.
Step 1: Size up the situation. Take a deep breath and clearly assess your surroundings, physical condition, and equipment. Address existing injuries and determine whether escape without further injury is possible. If not, discover whether food and water sources are nearby, and find or build adequate shelter. Supplies like a poncho, tarp, or natural materials can be used to make a shelter. Determine when nightfall is coming and have your camp set up before that time if you will be unable to get out of the area before dark.
Step 2: Use your senses. Observe the situation and note the different smells and sounds. Recognize temperature changes. Do not react without first thinking and planning. Hasty actions can result in exposure to further danger and disorientation.
Step 3: Remember where you are. If you have a map, locate where you are and relate this to the surrounding terrain. Constantly reorient yourself in relation to any enemies, water sources, and areas providing cover.
Step 4: Vanquish panic and fear. Do not let these things take over because they negatively affect clear thinking and decision-making ability.
Step 5: Improvise when necessary. Find alternate uses for tools, equipment, and items around you. Use your imagination and creativity.
Step 6: Value your life. Do not focus on discomfort and inconvenience. Place a high value on surviving because this gives you the will to live. Tap into past experiences and pre-existing knowledge to provide you with the skills to endure the situation. Most importantly, never give up.
Step 7: Act like the natives. Watch how the local animals get food, water, and shelter. Follow their practices, being careful to avoid eating toxic plants.
Step 8: Learn basic skills now. Before you enter a potential survival situation, equip yourself with the skills, supplies, and knowledge you may need. Go through exercises and training programs designed to teach survival skills.
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