Survival Guide
Warmth - Shelter - Water - Food
Warmth
As soon as you recognize you are in a survival situation, you should
assess your available equipment and start planning how you can maintain
or gain warmth. Even on a warm summer evening this is the primary
concern. If the weather suddenly changes and darkness falls, you
may not be able to prepare a fire. And even when conditions are
not adverse, a fire will provide you with a sense of security and
comfort. As well, the light and smoke can attract attention.
Location - choose a location away from overhanging branches
in the open where it can be seen from above. And clear a space free
from twigs, grass, etc. (dig a pit, if possible). You don't want
to risk a forest fire to contend with as well. You will also want
to be thinking ahead to shelter, since location will again be a
factor.
Preparation - gather a supply of tinder, such as dry twigs
(break from trees rather than picking up possibly damp twigs on
the ground) shredded birch bark, pine needles, etc. You may be carrying
tinder in the form of cotton balls, steel wool or paper, or fire
sticks. Have a good stock of dry wood available to add to the fire.
Sustaining - remember you will use an armful of wood an
hour on average. The time to gather it is when there is still light.
Once your fire is burning well, you can utilize some green wood
or even slightly damp wood, if necessary. But, don't smother your
fire. It isn't necessary to cut your wood, just lay a length across
the fire and as it burns through, push the remaining pieces into
the fire.
Survival
Guide - Warmth - Shelter
- Water and
Food
Fire Starting Tools below:
 |
Spark Lite Fire Starter |
  |
Magnesium Fire Stick |
 |
Emergency Tinder |
|
