WILDERNESS SURVIVAL

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Being in the great outdoors is fun, but only if you are well prepared.

The following was taken from the Deschutes County Sheriff's Search and Rescue pamphlet and
 the information can help save your life--whether you are skiing, hiking, camping, fishing, etc..

THE THREE ESSENTIALS FOR SURVIVAL:

  • HEAT...Fire for warmth, and also for a beacon
  • SHELTER...From the cold rain, wind, snow. Most Important: KEEP DRY!!
  • WATER...To keep from dehydrating (to sustain life)

BASIC SURVIVAL KIT

  • Compass--Knife--Saw or Hatchet Metal container (coffee can with lid)
  • Waterproof matches
  • Candle stubs (for fire starters)
  • Bouillon cubes (6 plus)
  • Sugar cubes (6 plus)
  • Tea bags (3 plus)
  • Whistle--Cord (for lashing)

USE OF BASIC SURVIVAL KIT

  • Plastic tarp and cord: as a rain coat, windbreak, groundcloth, or shelter for the night
  • : to carry your small survival items in it, for a drink cup, or as a cooking utensil to boil food in can or fry on lid
  • Waterproof matches, candle stubs, tools: first cut slivers of pitchwood or squaw wood, build teepee over candle stub, light candle with dry match--works wonders on wet wood in rain (better to have 10 matches and one candle than 100 matches and no candle)
  • Bouillon Cubes: add to hot water in can on fire. It will provide some energy, some salt, some flavor and much contentment
  • Sugar Cubes: a little quick energy; goes great in your tea
  • Tea Bags: nothing tastes better when you are cold and tired

REMEMBER!!

  • DO NOT TRAVEL AT NIGHT.
  • Stop, make camp, rest.
  • Learn to use your survival gear. Take your time.
  • Don't take the trip alone. If you must separate from a partner, make plans for frequent contact.
  • Tell family and friends exactly where you are going, when you plan to return. Stick to your original agenda!
  • Familiarize yourself with the area from a map. Carry the map and a compass.
  • Make camp near water, if possible. It is more important than food.
  • Recognized distress sign is 3 signals repeated at regular intervals. Use your whistle. Save your voice.
  • Be weather wise. Wetness and wind increase body heat loss and reduce your chances of survival. Fog changes the landscape and hides landmarks.
  • Have proper equipment, boots, suitable clothing, some survival gear--just in case.
  • Be in good physical shape for the trip you plan. Don't overextend yourself!
  • A fire at night helps in many ways. Gather a HUGE pile of fuel BEFORE DARK.
  • Take your time to think, don't panic. YOUR LIFE WILL BE IN YOUR HANDS--WILL IT BE IN GOOD HANDS?

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