No matter what emergency or natural disaster you find yourself in, there are a few basic survival skills anyone should have. Read through the list, mark off what you have mastered, and if needed, gather supplies. Acquiring these essential skills will serve you well throughout your lifetime, whether you’re in an urban area, the wilderness, or just preparing for an unexpected event.
Finding and Purifying Water
One of your first tasks, should you find yourself in an emergency situation, is to find a clean source of water. It’s surprising how often this becomes an issue with large storms, local city pump problems, utilities being damaged, water wells being contaminated, and power outages to name a few.
Storing Water
If you know a natural disaster is heading your way, store at least one gallon of drinking water per person for a minimum of three days. This amount covers drinking, cooking, and minimal hygiene needs. Consider storing water in food-grade containers that are tightly sealed and placed in a cool, dark place to ensure they remain uncontaminated.
Natural Water Sources
Natural water sources such as rivers, lakes, and streams can be valuable in an emergency. However, these sources should be used with caution as they can be contaminated. If you live in an area prone to flooding, avoid water that might have come into contact with floodwaters, which can contain harmful bacteria and chemicals.
Purifying Water
Invest in a small water purifier and learn how to use it. Portable water filters, purification tablets, and even DIY methods like boiling water can make contaminated water safe to drink. Boiling water for at least one minute (or three minutes at higher altitudes) is a simple and effective way to kill most pathogens. Filtration systems, like those using activated carbon or ceramic filters, can remove particulates and some chemicals.
Rainwater Collection
Rainwater collection is another method to ensure you have a backup water supply. There are water collection devices that you can set up to collect rainwater to use. Ensure that any containers used for collecting rainwater are clean and covered to prevent contamination. You can also purify rainwater using the same methods mentioned above.
Making a Fire
Another crucial skill is the ability to build a fire. Fire can provide warmth, light, and the means to cook food. It’s also useful for sterilizing water and signaling for help.
Fire Building Basics
Think back on your scouting days, or watch a YouTube video and start practicing. The basic components of a fire include tinder (small, easily combustible materials like dry grass or paper), kindling (slightly larger materials like twigs), and fuel (larger logs). Arrange these materials in a teepee or log cabin structure to promote airflow and ensure your fire burns efficiently.
Alternative Fire Starting Methods
Expand your skills by experimenting with different ways to generate a flame without a match or lighter. Methods such as using a flint and steel, a magnifying glass, or a battery and steel wool can be invaluable if traditional fire-starting tools aren’t available. Practice these techniques in safe conditions so you’re confident in your ability to use them in an emergency.
Wet Conditions
Learning how to make a fire in wet conditions is essential. Gather dry tinder by looking for materials in sheltered areas or stripping bark from trees. Use small, dry branches from the interior of larger logs as kindling. Having waterproof matches or a butane lighter in your emergency kit can also be a lifesaver.
Building a Shelter
Hopefully, you won’t find yourself needing to build a shelter because you are out in the woods, or because your home was destroyed. However, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with a few different ways to build a shelter using materials that are common in your area.
Simple Shelters
Start with simple shelters using string and a tarp. A basic lean-to or A-frame shelter can provide immediate protection from the elements. Set up your shelter against a tree or another sturdy structure, and secure the tarp using rope or paracord.
Natural Shelters
Move into more involved skills that use only materials found in nature, like sticks, branches, trees, and leaves. For example, a debris hut made from a framework of branches covered with leaves and other insulating materials can provide warmth and protection. Understanding how to create a stable structure and insulate it properly is key to staying warm and dry.
Location Considerations
When choosing a location for your shelter, consider the terrain and weather conditions. Avoid low-lying areas that could flood and look for natural windbreaks. Building your shelter on a slight incline can help with drainage, and positioning it near resources like water and firewood will save you time and energy.
Learning First Aid
If severe weather hits your area, chances are high that you or a loved one will get hurt by flying debris and the likes. Learning the basics of first aid is crucial for treating injuries until professional medical help arrives.
Basic First Aid Skills
Acquire a good first aid kit and learn how to use each item in your kit. Key skills include wound cleaning and dressing, recognizing and treating shock, performing CPR, and handling fractures and sprains. Taking a first aid course from a certified organization like the Red Cross can provide you with hands-on experience and confidence.
Customizing Your First Aid Kit
Ensure your first aid kit is tailored to your specific needs and environment. Include items such as bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, scissors, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you or your family may need. Regularly check and update your kit to replace expired items and add necessary supplies.
Emergency Contacts
Create a list of emergency contacts, including local medical facilities, poison control, and family members. Keep this list in your first aid kit and make sure everyone in your household knows where to find it. In an emergency, having this information readily available can save valuable time.
Finding and Preparing Food
Having basic food supplies on hand before a storm or other natural disaster hits is always a good idea. Stock up on plenty of ready-to-eat foods and make sure you have the means to open cans, scoop out food, and if possible, heat and cook things as needed.
Emergency Food Supplies
Non-perishable food items like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars are ideal for emergency situations. Ensure you have a manual can opener and utensils for preparing and eating your food. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences when stocking your emergency food supply to ensure everyone in your household can eat.
Foraging for Food
Familiarize yourself with the edible foods in your area and where to find them. While the chances you’ll need to rely on your foraging skills for survival are slim, it’s a fun exercise and it will give you and your family something to do while waiting for help to arrive. Learn to identify common edible plants, berries, nuts, and fungi in your region, and understand which ones are safe to eat.
Fishing and Hunting
If you live in an area with abundant wildlife, knowing basic fishing and hunting skills can provide additional food sources. Learn how to set simple traps, snare small game, and catch fish using basic equipment. Ensure you are familiar with local regulations and practice ethical and sustainable methods.
Signaling for Help
In an emergency, knowing how to signal for help is crucial, especially if cell phone service is unavailable.
Basic Signaling Tools
At the very least, have a flashlight and a mirror. A flashlight can be used to signal in the dark, while a mirror can reflect sunlight during the day to catch the attention of rescuers. Whistles, flares, and brightly colored materials can also be used to attract attention.
Creating Visible Signals
Markers, tape, and other items can be used to spell out messages, such as “HELP” on the roof of your home or in an open area. Use contrasting colors to ensure your message stands out. Large, clear signals are easier for rescuers to see from a distance.
Emergency Communication Plans
Establish an emergency communication plan with your family and neighbors. Designate a meeting place and discuss how you will signal for help if you become separated. Knowing how to use two-way radios or other communication devices can also be beneficial if cell phone networks are down.
By acquiring and practicing these skills, you’ll be well-prepared to survive when disaster strikes. These skills are not only useful in emergencies but also enhance your self-reliance and confidence in everyday life. So, start practicing today, and you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.
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