Wilderness Survival Activities

Wilderness survival is a physical and psychological test of man against the elements. By engaging in wilderness survival activities, you are taking steps to increase your chances of survival if you should find yourself in a survival situation.

Survival Kit

• Good preparation means having survival tools and knowing how to use them. Prepare a waterproof survival kit that includes first-aid items, water purification tablets or drops, fire-starting equipment, signaling items, food-procurement items and shelter items. (See References.)

Physical Preparation

• Physical preparation should include engaging in cardiovascular exercise, such as running at least three times a week. Build strength with daily sets of sit-ups and push-ups, gradually increasing the amount each week. Improve agility, flexibility and speed by building a military-style challenge course. Complete an orienteering course, locating control points by using a map and compass to navigate through the woods.

Mental Preparation

• Mental preparation is as important as physical preparation when it comes to wilderness survival. Learn stress-management techniques such as relaxation and cognitive restructuring. These skills will help you remain calm and give you the ability to reshape your attitude when faced with an adverse situation.

Practical Preparation

• Learn to identify edible and medicinal plants---as well as dangerous and poisonous plants---by using a field guide. This will help you find food sources in the wilderness and avoid things that could be fatal if ingested. Learn to identify types of clouds and the weather they predict. This can help you avoid getting stuck out in a bad storm, potentially making a bad situation worse. Practice skills such as building a simple shelter and making a fire. Make sure you are using only materials you would find in the wilderness or in your survival kit. Be prepared for anything.