How to Survive in the Mountains

Many movies have been made involving the drama of being stranded in the mountains. Even in good weather, it can be taxing to survive in the high altitude. Whether you have never been in the mountains before or you are a regular mountain man, follow these steps to survive in the mountains.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Compass
• Blanket
• Warm clothes
• Map
• Matches or lighter
• Kindling
• First aid kit

1. Expect the possibility that you can become stranded. Read about the potential hazards of the mountains you intend to visit on websites like MountainZone.com. If you go into the mountains expecting the worst, you may be better prepared to survive in the mountains should you end up stranded or lost.
2. Be ready for bad weather. Even in the summer, the mountains can experience sudden storms, including snow storms, that can materialize out of nowhere. Never go up to the mountains with only light clothing. Always bring warm clothes to put on should a storm create poor conditions.
3. Bring materials that you can use to start a fire. The biggest danger to being able to survive in the mountains is the cold. It is an absolute necessity to have a lighter or matches (kept in a baggie to remain dry) that you can use to start a fire. Also keep materials you can use for kindling to help the fire light and grow.
4. Stay in the right frame of mind. Do not act rashly through fear or despair. Keep your wits about you and make a plan. Consider where you are and where you need to go to find safety or be rescued. You greatly increase your chances of being able to survive in the mountains if you can remain calm and rational throughout your ordeal.
5. Keep a compass and map with you at all times. If you want to survive in the mountains, you have to get out of them at some point. A compass and map can help you find your way to either a highway or other populated location where you can find help.