How to survive in a forest when you are lost

The odds of being lost in a forest is very less but it’s highly important to know various aspects of surviving in the forest. Here are some tips that will help you survive in case you get lost in a forest.

1. No panic attacks, stay calm:

If you get lost, first and foremost, do not panic. Panic and stress will blur your thoughts and will end up leaving you confused.

2. Water:

Drink water from your portable water carrier and do not think too much about saving it. Drink optimum level to keep you going.  If it is dirty water, filter it with a piece of cloth in case you are completely deprived of water. One trick to stay hydrated is by breathing through the nose and not via the mouth.

3. Don’t move:

The moment you realise you are lost, do not wander away. Just stay where you are as this will be easier for those searching for you. Instead of walking to different locations, stay where you are and conserve energy.

4. The STOP policy:

Here stop means, stop, think, observe and plan. It is very important to follow this thumb rule. As soon as reality hits you that you are lost, stop where you are. Then think as to what can be done. Try recollecting your way back. Observe the place you are at. Observe the location, check if it is safe to stay. Finally, plan what to do.

5. Collect the essentials!

In the meanwhile, until help arrives, collect woods, leaves, branches and other materials around that will help you keep warm. Gather anything that you think will help you survive. It’s all about instincts.

6. Spot it right:

If you can spot birds circling, then there are high chances that there is water. Do go check it out and collect the water if it is pure. When you sit down to observe, listen carefully if you could hear any movements, sound of animals and birds, river stream. The things that you might need will be right next to you, it’s all about spotting it right.

7. Food:

After you have sorted out your water, finding food can be a Hercules task. Don’t eat mushrooms or berries that look similar to the one that we normally eat because most of them are poisonous. Avoid eating anything as long as you can. Store up food in case you have any.

8. Shelter:

In case you feel that there are chances that it might take a while to sort out the mess. Then build a shelter for yourself. The shelter can be made out of branches and leaves. Make it as compact as possible and don’t worry too many details. As long as you can protect yourself, it’s perfect.

9. Building fire

Collect dry tinder, twigs, and branches of various sizes and stack them like mini tents. If you have a match then the job is easier, if not rub two stones to obtain the spark.

• The universal code of distress

The universal code of distress is very important to know. Three Gunshots, three blows of the whistle, three campfires are all indicative of emergency and help. So, when you build your campfire, make sure you build three in a row or three forming a triangle.

• Make Noise!

If you feel that people might be looking out for you then start making noises so that they can find you. Other than that, the noise will scare away animals, keeping you safe and sound.

• Tools:

Make some emergency tools like stone knives and wood spears by sharpening branches and wood in case of emergency. This will protect you. Don’t over think it because many people have survived this way.

• Sleep like a foetus

Conserving energy is important so, take rest. Sleep in a foetal position to keep yourself warm and cosy.

• Avoid attacks:

In case of an attack by wild animals, keep the following aspects in mind. The following are the most common predators.

Black bears: Fight back. Use sticks, rocks, or your bare hands if you have to.

Grizzly Bears: Play dead. Try to show no signs of life. When the bear is done checking to see that you are dead and leaves, don't get up until the bear is gone. Grizzlies have been known to check back.

Insects/Spiders:

Depending on which forest you are located, there are insects and spiders that are poisonous. To avoid exposure, keep your clothing tucked in and limit a number of areas that insects can crawl inside your clothing. Try to set up your shelter so it is off of the ground.

15. Be positive

staying positive is essential to survive. The more positively you are going to think, the better it will turn out to be. Be patient, wait for help and be positive.

Though we hope you never get lost in the forest ever but in case you do, don’t forget to bring out your inner Bear Grylls during such situations.

Picture Credit: Meghna Krishnadas