How to Survive in the Backwoods

Survive the backwoods by planning before you hike or camp in unfamiliar territory. Inform others of your travel plans and always hike with a friend. Carry a survival pack even on day hikes and do not panic if you lose your way. Stay calm, avoid animals, keep warm and stay with your group to survive in the backwoods.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Stay with your hiking companions and stay put in you are lost. If possible, move toward a nearby clearing. Increase your chance of rescue by staying together in one location. Plan to wait where you are until rescuers find you.
2. Keep warm. Zip up your jacket and put on a hat. Find shelter, such as a large tree or empty cave, in case of foul weather. Prepare a bed of branches, moss and leaves to keep you off the forest floor. Use the same materials to create a blanket to cover you during the night. Stay off the forest floor because it drains heat from your body. Cuddle with your companion or pet to maintain body heat.
3. Put out a bright marker to indicate your location. Use available materials to spell out "Help" on the ground where rescuers may see it. Draw attention to your location in any way possible. Make a fire or create multiple fires to draw more attention to your location.
4. Find a source of drinking water. Use dew from leaves to prevent dehydration. Be careful when gathering water from a lake or river so you don't fall in or injure yourself on the water's edge. Boil water obtained from natural sources before drinking to prevent illness.
5. Make noise if you hear other people nearby. Stand in the middle of the clearing and call for help. Make yourself look bigger by lying on the ground and waving your arms and legs if you hear an aircraft.
6. Eat only substances you are sure are not poisonous.
7. Keep yourself busy by investigating your surroundings. Travel only small distances so you are able to quickly return to your campsite. Gather wood to keep the fires burning and do not wander off by yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan a set time for your return from any hiking or camping trip. Arrange with a friend to notify authorities if you have not checked in by your arranged return time.
• Practice safe fire techniques even if lost in the backwoods. Starting a forest fire not only harms the environment, but it may harm you and your rescuers.