If you go hiking or camping in the wilderness, you should always let someone know where you will be and who you are hiking with before you leave. If you are out in the wilderness and get separated from your group, there are a few things you can do to stay safe until you get help. Here are some steps to follow in an emergency.
Step 1: Make a plan to move in one direction
Find a higher location from which you can see the surrounding area, then try to identify water, buildings, or possibly a town.
Choose a direction to walk in, and walk by day. Use the sun’s position to know which direction you are heading. Going downhill will probably lead you to water, such as a river. If you follow a river, it will eventually take you out of the wilderness.
Step 2: Deal with the essentials
Water and shelter are priorities! Water can come from streams, rivers, rain, or even leaves or tree branches. You can also look for animal paths or tracks, because those are signs that water might be nearby.
A shelter will protect you when sleeping or if you decide to stay in one spot for a while. You can make a simple shelter from sticks, branches, leaves, or any other materials you can find.
Find a long, straight branch and prop it against a tree.
Make walls with shorter branches, so they form a triangle frame.
Cover the frame with leaves or any waterproof materials you have.
Step 3: Food
Always carry a pack with food and water in it when you hike. Energy bars and water are really important. If you are out of food and near a river, use a stick to catch fish.
How to cook fish:
Make a fire and heat up some rocks.
Dig a hole and put the hot rocks into it.
Wrap your fish in leaves and tie the package with a thin plant.
Leave the fish on the rocks for an hour. Then enjoy!
Step 4: Avoid danger
Animals and insects can be dangerous, so wear clothes that protect your skin. You should travel during the day, so that you can see any animals. However, during the daytime, sunburn and dehydration can make you ill, so try to stay out of direct sunlight and drink water when you can.
