by James Johnson

Created on: July 22, 2008   Last Updated: January 15, 2009

Having grown up in the rural areas of the South (Arkansas, Missouri, and the Carolinas), I spent a great deal of time hiking, fishing, hunting and exploring the swamps and mountains. When I went to University, I continued these activities and worked as a Fire Fighter for the U.S. Forestry Service, putting out forest fires and helping with searches for lost people. Now I am a guide in the Caribbean, teaching survival techniques and looking for the occasional lost tourist. Few people plan on getting lost or needing to survive in the wilderness, but all should be prepared in case it happens.

Surviving in the wilderness is not as difficult many think, all one needs to do is remember a few basics, and, as the Scout Motto goes, "Always be prepared". This applies to the wilds of the Ozark Mountains of Missouri down into the islands in the Caribbean. Being prepared means telling people where you are going, as well as always carrying a good First Aid Kit, waterproof matches (or a waterproof container) and lightweight rope. Throw in dental floss and a few fish hooks, a small compass, and a basic understanding of the area where you will be traveling; survival becomes not only possible, but simple.

First rule if lost: Don't Panic! This is important as when people panic they tend to get excited and not think clearly. One becomes careless, runs in circles and uses up a lot of needless energy, becoming even more confused. Instead, sit down, relax, eat a snack bar and try to remember where the last familiar place was. This way you won't mess up or create false trails; also people think better sitting down eating.

No idea of where you are or incapable of getting back (I once slid down a cliff when a ledge suddenly collapsed under me, the trail was exactly 30 ft above me, but no way up)? Relax, you have options.

Option one is to sit where you are. Hopefully you told people where you were going (Proper preparation) and, unless you are really obnoxiuos, some one will look for you when you don't come back on time. This is best if you know searches will begin in a day or two. Of course if "on time" is three weeks later, you need to consider option two, surviving or getting out by yourself. Option two depends on where you are.

If you are just lost (and not on the side of a cliff), start by resting the compass on a level surface so the needle "floats", sight upon a fixed object, then head to that object. The object can be a tree a few hundred yards away or a mountain top a mile off. When

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>