Survival Priorities

Survival Priorities: Essential Steps in the Face of Danger

When it comes to surviving in the wilderness, having a clear understanding of your priorities can mean the difference between life and death. Here, we break down the fundamental survival priorities that every outdoor enthusiast should know and understand, as they are the key to facing the unknown with confidence and resilience.

1. STOP!  Stop-Think-Observe-Plan:  Before you do anything else, remember STOP. In a crisis, the initial shock can cloud your judgment. Stopping gives you the chance to collect your thoughts. Think about your situation, observe your surroundings keenly, and plan your next moves. This simple acronym can save you from making hasty decisions that might worsen your situation.
2. Immediate and Imminent Threat (Run/Hide/Fight/Trauma Wounds):  Your safety comes first. Assess the situation for immediate threats. If possible, run to safety. If running isn’t an option, find a place to hide. As a last resort, be prepared to fight if your life is in danger. Additionally, tend to any life-threatening trauma wounds immediately. Addressing injuries promptly is vital for ensuring you remain in a fit state to handle other survival priorities.  Note that basic first aid that is not life threatening is important and covered in Step 4.
3. Communication (Stay Hidden/Get Found):  Strategic communication can be a lifesaver. If you need rescue, find ways to signal for help without jeopardizing your safety. Equally important, if you're in a situation where staying hidden is necessary, maintain silence and minimize any actions that might reveal your location.
4. First Aid:  Knowledge of basic first aid can save lives. Learn how to stop bleeding, dress wounds, and perform CPR. A well-equipped first aid kit is essential; proper first aid can be the difference between a minor injury that minor injury later becoming a life-threatening situation.  Note that immediate life-threatening trauma wounds are covered in Step 2.
5. Shelter:  Securing shelter protects you from the elements. In extreme weather, exposure can lead to hypothermia or heatstroke. Master the art of building makeshift shelters using natural materials. A well-built shelter provides a safe haven, especially in harsh conditions.
6. Water:  Water is vital for survival. Always prioritize finding a clean water source. Learn to purify water through boiling, filtering, or using purification tablets. Hydration is essential for maintaining physical and mental functions.
7. Food:  While food is crucial for energy, it’s not an immediate priority in most survival situations. Focus on the essentials first: water, shelter, and warmth. However, understanding edible plants, trapping, and basic hunting can be valuable skills for long-term survival scenarios.
8. Power:  Power, in the form of fire or energy sources like batteries, is essential for signaling, cooking, and staying warm. Master fire-building techniques and carry portable power sources such as batteries or solar chargers to ensure you have the necessary power supply.

Remember, the order of these priorities can change based on your specific situation. Stay adaptable, think critically, and always be prepared. By understanding and following these survival priorities, you enhance your chances of survival in the great outdoors.  Survival situations are dynamic and unpredictable, demanding adaptability and quick thinking. The ability to adapt in the moment can be the difference between life and death. Preparation, planning, and studying survival techniques provide a foundation. This knowledge allows for informed, on-the-fly decisions, increasing the chances of survival significantly.

Adapting to Diverse Environments:  In the wilderness, adaptability is paramount. Different environments require different survival strategies. Understanding the nuances of each environment is crucial. By having a deep knowledge of survival skills tailored to specific surroundings, one can pivot the plan effectively, maximizing the chances of survival.

Utilizing Available Resources:  A vital survival mindset involves never passing by available resources. Even if not needed immediately, gathering extra supplies provides both physical resources and a morale boost. The reassurance of abundance can alleviate stress, reinforcing the belief that survival materials are plentiful, even in the wild.

Sourcing Water from Unexpected Places:  Water is life, and knowing how to find it in unexpected places is invaluable. While grapevines might not be common in all regions, the presence of plants typically indicates nearby water sources. Understanding this connection doesn’t change the order of importance in survival priorities but offers mental reassurance and confidence.

Efficiency through Multitasking:  Efficient survival strategies involve multitasking. Combining tasks like searching for water, shelter, and fuel can save energy and time. When out scouting for one essential, always be on the lookout for others. Efficiency is key, and gathering resources during initial searches ensures you have what you need when you need it.

Natural Water Disinfection Techniques:  Knowing how to source safe water without extensive disinfection processes can be a game-changer. While natural disinfection is the safest, shortcuts can be employed when needed. These methods not only conserve personal energy by eliminating the need for boiling but also highlight the interconnectedness of survival priorities. By conserving energy, you can focus on other critical tasks.

Be sure to watch this outstanding resource on Survival Priorities on the channel The Gray Bearded Green Beret.

Survival is about more than following a fixed set of rules; it's about adaptability and resourcefulness. Understanding the environment, utilizing available resources wisely, and employing shortcuts when necessary form the bedrock of successful survival strategies. By integrating these principles, you can navigate the challenges of the wild with confidence and resilience.