The existence of five elementary survival skills is a fact. Coincidentally, the five military skills also happen to be the primary skills required for survival that a prepper must learn. These encompass finding water, constructing shelter, searching for food, building fire, and signaling. The following is a summary outlining the five military survival skills that every prepper should become proficient in.
Five Military Survival Skills for Preppers
To guarantee the acquisition of survival skills, it is recommended that one engages in field practice. The military offers five fundamental survival skills which can be adopted for practice.
The five essential survival skills in the military are:
#1: Securing Potable Water.
Water is essential for survival, and any prepared individual recognizes that one cannot survive beyond three days without it. Therefore, finding water becomes a crucial priority in a survival scenario. Even during a simple day hike, it is advisable to bring a water bottle filled with life-sustaining liquid. Additionally, there are other items that should be packed to enhance your chances of survival.
- Get a metal container. Your water bottle should be of metal or you should have a metal cookset, so that you can boil water if need be. Never eat snow as it will chill you. It’s better to let snow melt near the fire in your metal cup. A cup can also help you capture dew and rain.
- Pack a firestarter even for a day trip. A firestarter is everyday carry will help you boil your water to kill off pathogens.
- Consider bringing a waterstraw. If you have room, pack a lifestraw water filter. Honestly, waterstaws suck, but they are lifesaving and clever devices. With a water straw you can
suck fresh water from a lake, creek or stream — even a puddle or a mud hole that you dig. Unfortunately a water straw can’t remove salt water so you can’t use it with sea water, ocean water or brackish water.
- Water treatment tablets. Another way to get potable water in an emergency situation is water treatment tablets, like Potable Aqua. These tiny pills will help turn water that’s substandard and disinfect it so that you don’t need to worry about the bacteria harming you. It’s peace of mind in an emergency.
- Stash electrolyte powders. Tuck into your day bag some electrolyte powders for your journey. These little packet powders will come in handy in case of heat stroke or a diarrheal episode and it will make the water taste better, too.
In the event that you have used all available water sources or neglected to bring the mentioned items, your main focus as a necessary survival skill is to locate water.
#2: Shelter building.
It is still highly important to have knowledge of utilizing paracord for shelter building. However, it is not necessary to solely rely on paracord, as alternatives such as dental floss, fishing wire, and other cordage can also be used. Besides locating water, shelter building is a vital skill to possess. Therefore, it is essential to remember to pack the following important items.
- Have some cordage. Hopefully you have some cordage in your Every day carry. Paracord is available abundantly in raw form or transformed into bracelets and keychains. Paracord is a popular survival item, but you’ll need to have a knife. Few consider that even dental floss is good cordage material and a great candidate for your go bag because it’s so lightweight, it’s strong and it cuts easily thanks to the container.
- Bring a bivvy. Even on a day trip it’s a good idea to bring a bivvy should you get lost in the woods. What’s a bivvy? A bivvy is a lightweight sack, like a sleeping bag, that’s made of Mylar. It’s goal is to help you retain body heat and help you avoid hypothermia. It can also help you feel secure against the elements as the night critters make their way out to bite you.
If you don’t have any man-made materials to build your shelter, here are a few points to consider.
- Select the campsite. The shelter you build should be close enough to your water source as a campsite, but your goal is to find something high and dry. You should also steer clear of widowmakers. Widowmakers are trees that could fall on you at night, killing you and thus theoretically making you a widow. If you have a perfect spot, you may decide to fell a tree to ensure it doesn’t inadvertently make you a widow.
- Insulate yourself from the ground. Leaves can provide a bedding and insulate you from the cold earth that gets colder by night.
In addition, it is important to wear appropriate clothing that matches the surroundings. Conserving energy remains essential. If nature provides a shelter, avoid expending unnecessary energy to create one. Additionally, it is recommended to learn how to construct a basic lean-to shelter, as this skill can be beneficial when a suitable camping site is unavailable.
#3: Foraging for Food.
When in the wilderness and lacking hunting tools, foraging is the method by which you seek out food. The primary rule to follow when foraging is to abstain from consuming any plants that you cannot identify, as they may pose a danger. It is crucial to only eat something if you have complete certainty regarding its nature. It is advisable to enroll in a local food foraging course and keep a book with information on hand.
In order to sustain your survival, you can seek out these options for foraging for food as they are easily recognizable and can assist you.
- Blackberries
- Cattails
- Crickets (may carry parasitic nematodes such as tape worms).
- Dandelions
- Pine cone and pine needles (make a nourishing tea)
- Prickly pear cactus
- Seaweed
- Wild garlic
When considering the text above, it is important to note that the mentioned foods are easily recognizable. It is crucial to be cautious of non-edible look-alikes, as they have the potential to be fatal. It is advised to avoid mushrooms, as they lack nutritional value and may contain toxins. It is recommended to always have food in your day bag. In the event of being in the wilderness and awaiting rescue, finding food may not be of utmost importance, as it is possible to survive without it for up to three weeks. However, if you are in a dire situation where nobody is aware of your absence or you are in a remote area with little chance of rescue, finding food should be prioritized. In your day bag, there are a few essential items that you can pack to facilitate the process of getting lost.
- Hard candies. Sugar is energy and will lift your spirits and fuel your path to safety. A Jolly Rancher, a butterscotch or a Lifesaver could be, well a real lifesaver! Alternatively, bring along energy chews. If you’re in bear country, put these items far away from your campsite as they will attract an unwanted night visitor.
- Food bars. Food bars are easy to pack and satisfying. Pemmican is an acquired taste of animal fat, nuts and berries, but well worth considering. (Ration bars are heavy bricks and not recommended for a day hike).
- Beef Jerky. Beef jerky is a classic food to bring along as it’s dehydrated and lightweight. The salt content will have you thirsty, but on the other hand salt helps you retain water making it an excellent choice to bring.
When it comes to locating food in a natural environment, remember the following guidelines:
- Pine trees are an excellent source of food for survival.
- Look for dandelions greens as a classic survival food.
- Prickly Pear cactus is a good foraging find. If you’re in a desert you’ll want to keep an eye for this tasty and nutritional treat.
- Keep an eye out for cattails. Cattails are easy to spot along the edges of freshwater wetlands and foraging them is fairly easy.
- Yelp for more kelp! Kelp is a form of seaweed and you’ll be surprised to know that it’s a great source of Vitamin K, which is difficult to get into your diet.
- Hickory nuts are another good option if you can find them.
- Outdoorlife has more good ideas on foods to eat in the wild.
It is important to exercise caution and avoid consuming plants or drinking water from unknown sources. Ensuring access to safe water can often be challenging, but under no circumstances should urine be consumed. If a water source is found, it is advisable to use a water filter to purify it. In the absence of a filter, you can use a handkerchief to filter the water, then boil it before drinking. Additionally, it is highly recommended to have poly-zip bags on hand, as they can be used to collect water from rivers or streams when encountered.
Do not consume wild berries and seeds, and make sure to keep yourself hydrated.
#4: Fire building.
Mastering the art of building a fire is essential for anyone wishing to explore the wilderness, as fire is the most crucial element. This is due to the various advantageous ways fire can contribute to ensuring your survival.
One of the essential skills for surviving in the wild is knowing how to generate and use fire. By building a fire, you can purify water, making it safe for drinking and cooking. Additionally, fire provides light and warmth, can be used to signal rescuers, and keeps predators away. There are two methods for creating a fire: using gears or collecting firewood and lighting it.
Mastering the skill of building a fire is essential for every prepper. The process starts by gathering firewood, logs, twigs, and tinder. Once you have successfully built a fire, it enables you to accomplish the following tasks:
- Stay warm.
- Light the night.
- Cook food.
- Make water potable.
- Add comfort and renew hope.
- Signal for help.
Once you have acquired expertise in firebuilding, you have the potential to go further and optimize your fire. For instance, if you have a bivvy or a Mylar blanket with you, you can utilize the reflective material to deflect heat back and warm your entire body.
#5: Signalling.
Signalling is a distinct survival skill as it can assist in notifying potential rescuers about your presence and your search for them or vice versa.
You have the option to use various methods to signal for help, such as fire, bright markers, mirrors, flags, whistles, flashing lights, and smoke. To make a three-fire formation, ensure they are placed at safe distances to prevent starting a fire. Mirrors can be used to signal a passing plane or alerting someone from a distance. Another option is creating an S.O.S. signal in an open field to attract attention.
First Aid
Another skill that is crucial for saving lives is knowing how to perform first aid. This skill is not solely about acquiring basic medical knowledge, but also about successfully utilizing this knowledge in real-life situations. It is important to remember that when in the wilderness and facing an emergency, you must take care of yourself. Panicking will only worsen the situation, so it is crucial to remain calm, focused, and concentrate on the task at hand. If you find yourself administering first aid, it is essential to have a clear mind. Follow the STOP acronym – Sit, Think, Observe, and Plan.
The first step in basic survival skills is to train your brain to make rational decisions, as it is an essential rule that can determine your success or failure.
Types of Survivalist Courses
Here are some of the most significant survival skillsets, and correspondingly, there exist numerous survival courses that can aid in acquiring expertise in them.
Martial Arts
Not only is learning martial arts beneficial for self-defense, but it can also assist in survival situations. It is important to acknowledge the likelihood of encountering a situation where self-defense is necessary. Therefore, acquiring knowledge of unarmed takedowns, strikes, and the handling of bladed and blunt weapons is preferable. Taking this course will provide aid in wilderness survival.
First Aid
By learning basic first aid skills, you or your friend can be better prepared in case of emergencies in the wilderness. Start by getting trained in basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and first aid techniques, and then progress to acquiring wilderness first aid knowledge. Despite a lower likelihood of using these skills, it is wiser to have a basic understanding rather than facing an injury without the ability to address it. This precaution is particularly important due to the increased risk of infections in wild environments.
Food
To survive, one must have food. A course on survival food will teach you which wild edibles are safe to consume and instruct you on how to cook your meals. Engaging in a food survival course will enable you to be completely self-sufficient and guarantee your capability to nourish yourself.
Wilderness
If you possess adequate knowledge of wilderness survival, you can maximize your chances of surviving in the wild. The wilderness survival course covers all the necessary skills such as fire building, shelter construction, signaling, water purification, and much more.
Shooting
In addition to the aforementioned skill of shooting, which can be advantageous for hunting and self-defense, enrolling in a firearms and weaponry course can further develop your proficiency in utilizing such tools effectively. By doing so, not only will you be able to safeguard yourself but also increase your probability of survival in wilderness settings.
Recommended Equipment and Tools for Survivalists
Survivalists, regardless of their basic survival skills, will require equipment and tools to excel in their craft. Below, you will find a compilation of essential items along with a handful of recommended products to ensure their survival and success.
1. Tools
Multi-tool: RoverTac Pocket Knife Multitool Pocket knife: Smith and Wesson Pocket Folding Knife Pliers: Leatherman Multitool featuring Spring-Action Pliers
2. Water Purification
Step by step, rephrase the given text while keeping the same meaning, without adding or removing information: 1. The tablets for purifying water: Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets 2. A portable device for purifying water: Membrane Solutions Straw Water Filter 3. The drops for purifying water: Aquamira – Chlorine Dioxide Water Treatment Two Part Liquid
3. Illumination
For batteries, there is a set available consisting of Energizer AA Batteries and AAA Batteries. In terms of flashlights, there are GearLight LED Flashlights. Additionally, there are Candlelife Emergency Survival Candles for emergency situations.
4. Tape and Cordage
Tough Grid 750lb Paracord/Parachute Cord consists of 200 feet, while Berkley Trilene XL Monofilament Fishing Line provides a length of 100 yards, and the original Duck Tape Brand Duct Tape is made up of several yards.
5. Fire-Building Kit
Flint or magnesium fire starter is known as the überleben Zünden Fire Starter. Matches that can be ignited by striking on the box are called Diamond-Strike ON Box Matches. The AIXPI Magnifying Glass with Light serves as a magnifying glass. In terms of emergency tinder, Procamptek Fire Plugs are popular and referred to as Emergency Tinder.
6. Blanket
Fire blanket: Emergencies are unpredictable, therefore it is essential to have a fire blanket like the Prepared Hero Emergency Fire Blanket on hand for safety measures. Wool blanket: The Arcturus Military Wool Blanket is a reliable option to keep warm and comfortable, especially in outdoor scenarios. Thermal blanket: In times of crisis, the Titan Survival Emergency Survival Blanket serves as a vital tool to ensure warmth and survival.
7. Metal Pot or Mugs
Cookware: The Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set includes a cooking pot. Drinking container: The Goetland Stainless Steel WWII US Military Canteen Kit consists of a canteen cup. Drinking vessel: The Joyfair 12oz Enamel Camping Mug Set features an enamel mug.
8. Trekking Poles
There are two types of trekking poles available. The first type is called Adjustable trekking poles, and one example is the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles. The second type is called Non-adjustable trekking poles, and one example is the Nordic Walking Poles. Another option for hiking is using a Hiking staff, also known as a Prime Adventure Hiking Stick or a Walking Staff.
9. Emergency Poncho
The rain poncho called SaphiRose is a type of hiking poncho known as the USGI Industries Military Style Rip Stop Camouflage Rain Poncho.
10. Safety Pins
Dritz Quilting 3032 Curved Safety Pins are a type of curved safety pins. These pins are heavy duty. They are also known as 5 Inch Heavy Duty Jumbo Stainless Steel Safety Pins. Additionally, they can be classified as industrial safety pins and are part of the Tool Gadget Large Stainless Steel Safety Pins.
11. Basic Medical Kit
Adhesive bandages: Band-Aid Brand Flexible Fabric Adhesive Bandages Gauze: Medpride 3’’ x 3’’ Sterile Gauze Pads Elastic bandages: Premium Elastic Bandage Wrap – 4pk (2×3″, 2×4″) Pain Relief (ointment): Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Pain Relief (tablets): Amazon Basic Care Naproxen Sodium Caplets 220 mg Aspirin: HealthA2Z Aspirin 81mg (300 Tablets), Low Strength, Enteric Coated Antihistamines: Benadryl Ultratabs Antihistamine Allergy Relief Medicine Antiseptic wipes: Dynarex BZK Antiseptic Towelettes – 5″x7″ Triple antibiotic ointment: GoodSense Maximum Strength Triple Antibiotic Ointment Tweezers: DUROX- Sharp Tweezers to Extract Cactus, Wood and Metal Splinter
12. Emergency Food
Canned products: Wild Planet offers Wild Sardines. Kits for immediate consumption: ReadyWise provides Emergency Food Supply. Freeze-dried meals: Mountain House offers Classic Bucket Freeze Dried Food.
13. Rescue Signals
The signaling mirror is called Jetec Survival Reflective Mirror, and the whistle is called LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard.
14. Large Tarp
The finished size of the canvas tarp called CARTMAN is 8×10 feet. There are also insulated tarps available, such as the Arcturus Heavy Duty Insulated Thermal Reflective Tarp. Additionally, there are fire retardant tarps offered by Tarps Now, including the Fire Retardant Canvas Tarp.
15. Rain Gear
The Titan Survival Dryflip Rain Jacket is a waterproof rain jacket, while the Helly-Hansen Workwear Mandal Adjustable Waterproof Jacket is a yellow rain coat.
Would you be able to survive in the wilderness after a catastrophic incident? In order to endure a severe circumstance, you must make necessary arrangements. This encompasses rigorous training, mental fortification, skill enhancement, and physical fitness. The objective is to be prepared and confront any obstacles that may arise when attempting to survive in the wild.
