How to Survive a Combat Zone

The world is a volatile place. At any given time, there are numerous military conflicts all over the globe. Should you ever find yourself in a combat survival situation, you must not panic. There are steps you can take to increase your odds of survival in a war zone.

Instructions

1. Gather supplies. Pack non-spoiling food such as crackers and water. (Water is heavy. Pack only as much as you can carry on a dead run.) Grab a salt shaker. Your body loses salt through sweat and you must have sodium to survive. Obtain a hatchet, clothesline-sized rope and a lighter. Find a small shovel if possible. Get a first aid kit if you can; at the very least find some alcohol and a bottle of iodine. Other useful items include extra socks, radio and extra batteries, lighter fluid, black garbage bags, small items to use for barter and any weapon you can find. Keep supplies bagged (in a backpack, if possible) at all times unless in use.

2. Locate a water source. To survive in a combat zone, you must have water. Stay within walking distance of drinking water. Purify water by adding four drops of iodine per quart of clear water, (eight for cloudy), and allowing it to sit for 30 minutes. The iodine will kill the bacteria, rendering it safe to drink. Remain especially watchful while near the water supply; soldiers place traps next to water sources and will often be nearby.

3. Find shelter. If you cannot find a structure to enter, dig a foxhole. You are safer underground than out in the open. Use debris from the immediate area to conceal the opening, keeping the surrounding area as 'natural' looking as possible. If you must leave your shelter for supplies, do so at night.

4. Prepare to move at any moment. Only remove items from your backpack when in immediate use. Should you need to run, the backpack is essential to your survival. Change your socks often to keep your feet dry. Blisters can lead to infection. Infection can be deadly in a combat survival situation.

Tips & Warnings

• Use common sense and stay on your guard. Refuse to panic, and you gain a much better chance to survive in a combat zone.