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Survival Skills for Hiking: Essential Knowledge to Keep You Safe in the Wild

Survival Skills for Hiking: Essential Knowledge to Keep You Safe in the Wild

Jun 29, 2023 Posted by: Radi Saputra

Hiking is a wonderful way to connect with nature and explore the great outdoors. However, it's important to be prepared for unexpected situations that may arise during your hike. Having a basic understanding of survival skills can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and well-being. In this article, we will explore essential survival skills for hiking that every outdoor enthusiast should know.

  1. Navigation: One of the most critical skills for hiking is navigation. Always carry a detailed topographic map and a compass, and learn how to use them effectively. Familiarize yourself with the trail route before setting out, and periodically check your map and compass to ensure you're on the right track. Additionally, consider carrying a GPS device or a smartphone with a GPS app as a backup. Being able to navigate properly will help you avoid getting lost and increase your chances of finding your way back to safety.
  2. Fire Starting: Knowing how to start a fire is essential for staying warm, signaling for help, purifying water, and cooking food in a survival situation. Carry waterproof matches, a lighter, or a fire starter kit in your hiking gear. Learn various fire-starting techniques, such as using a ferrocerium rod, and practice them before your hike. Identify suitable fire-making materials in the environment, such as dry leaves, twigs, and birch bark. Always exercise caution when starting a fire, ensuring it is done in a safe area and properly extinguished before leaving.
  3. Shelter Building: Being able to construct a shelter can protect you from the elements and provide a safe haven during emergencies or unexpected overnight stays. Learn basic shelter-building techniques using natural materials like branches, leaves, and debris. Practice building different types of shelters, such as lean-tos and debris huts, in various terrains and weather conditions. Understanding how to create a sturdy and insulated shelter will significantly increase your chances of surviving in challenging environments.
  4. Water Procurement and Purification: Access to clean water is vital for survival. Learn how to identify potential water sources such as streams, rivers, and lakes. Carry a water filtration system or water purification tablets to treat water before drinking. If necessary, learn alternative methods like boiling water or using a portable water filter. Understanding how to locate, procure, and purify water will help prevent dehydration and waterborne illnesses during a hiking emergency.
  5. First Aid: Basic first aid knowledge is crucial for treating injuries and illnesses while hiking. Familiarize yourself with common wilderness injuries like sprains, cuts, and insect bites. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and know how to use its contents effectively. Take a wilderness first aid course to learn essential skills such as wound cleaning, bandaging, splinting, and CPR. Being prepared to provide immediate medical care can make a significant difference in an emergency situation.
  6. Food and Foraging: While it's always recommended to carry sufficient food for your hike, it's essential to understand basic foraging skills in case of an extended stay or emergency situation. Learn to identify edible plants, berries, and nuts in the local environment. Carry a field guide on edible wild plants and practice identifying them before relying on them for sustenance. However, exercise extreme caution, as misidentification can be dangerous or even deadly. It's best to rely on your stored food or emergency rations whenever possible.
  7. Emergency Signaling: In the event of an emergency, knowing how to signal for help can significantly increase your chances of being rescued. Carry a whistle or a signal mirror as part of your hiking gear. Learn distress signals such as SOS (three short, three long, three short) and practice using them. Use your whistle or signal mirror to attract attention from search and rescue teams or passing hikers. If possible, build a visible signal fire in an open area to increase your visibility.
  8. Mental Preparedness: Survival situations can be physically and emotionally challenging. Maintaining a positive mindset and mental preparedness is crucial. Stay calm, assess the situation, and make rational decisions. Develop a survival mindset that focuses on problem-solving, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Practice mindfulness techniques and positive self-talk to stay focused and motivated during challenging times.

Remember, prevention is always the best strategy. Before embarking on a hike, thoroughly research the trail, check weather conditions, and inform someone of your itinerary. Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain, wear sturdy footwear, and carry essential gear and supplies. By acquiring and practicing these survival skills, you'll be better equipped to handle unexpected situations and ensure your safety while enjoying the wonders of hiking and exploring the great outdoors.