Everyone should have wilderness survival skills

 

Three lost Minnesota bear hunters, recently forced to spend the night in the woods, is a good reminder that anyone enjoying the outdoors should know the basic rules of wilderness survival, said Capt. Mike Hammer, DNR Enforcement Education Program coordinator. As Cook County hunters head out grouse hunting or in a few weeks, deer hunting, they should keep the following information in mind.

Panic is the biggest enemy if someone gets lost in the woods. Hammer said the acronym S.T.O.P. could save a person’s life. .
. SIT:
Collect your thoughts and realize that you are not lost;

you just can’t find your camp

or vehicle.

. THINK:
What do I have at my disposal both physical and mental that can help me in this situation? Inventory your

survival kit and start to

develop a plan.

. OBSERVE:
Look around, is there shelter, water, an open area

where searchers could see

you?

. PLAN:
Create a plan of action. Pick a spot that you can build a fire for heat and signaling. In addition, can the spot

provide basic shelter? Most of all remain positive, you will survive. Know the regs

A basic survival kit can be packed into a quart zip-lock bag and
should contain the following.

.
Basic shelter materials: Two 55-gallon garbage bags and 30 feet of

braided mason’s line.

.
Means to start a fire: Disposable lighter, waterproof matches or

matches stored in a waterproof container, or 10 feet of toilet paper or petroleum jelly soaked cotton balls in a 35 mm film canister.

.
Means of signaling: Whistle, signal mirror (could be an old CD). A fire is also a signal.

.
Means of knowing direction: A compass.

.
Comfort food: Food bar, nuts or trail mix.

When heading outdoors, plan for
the unexpected and be prepared
to spend the night in the woods.
Here are some things to do
before heading out.

.
Always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

.
Carry a compass or GPS and know how to use it.

.
Carry a basic survival and first-aid kit.

.
Carry a cell phone since you could find a location where it works.

.
Check the weather and dress for it.