Even professional survivalists are at risk when they are out on the trail. Whether it be an injury, freak weather, or getting lost, there are plenty of things that can happen when you are out in the wilderness. Therefore, it is essential to know safety basics, and to take simple steps that go a long way in protecting yourselves.
Research Ahead Of Time
This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you are planning a trip or a hike, conduct your research! Learn about what obstacles you will face, what equipment is recommended, health and safety services in the area, and checkpoints. Typically you can find all of the information you need online.
Bring Extra Water
Water is the key to survival. Humans can only survive for three days without water. Therefore, it is always important to bring extra. It is recommended you drink two liters of water daily when you are not hiking, but you should drink about a half a liter for every hour you are. We recommend you bring an extra two liters in case of emergency—it is worth carrying the extra weight.
Sleep Separate from Food
Wildlife is a constant presence on the trail, even if you don’t see it. However, you are at your most vulnerable when you are asleep, and animals can smell food from miles away. When you go to sleep, don’t keep your food next to you, or it may attract animals. Instead, hang your food in a tree a distance away from you, so animals won’t bother you and won’t be able to reach your food.
Check In
Perhaps the easiest piece of safety advice to follow, just tell someone where you are going and how to reach you in case of emergency! Ask someone to pick you up or meet you at a checkpoint, or tell them you will call on a certain day. Set up a system so someone always knows where you are, and will be alerted something might be wrong if you don’t check in.