Advanced First Aid

Getting lost in the wilderness can be a nightmare. Especially if you’re lost overnight or even for a few days. First of all, what do you eat? If you’re lucky you will have some sort of fresh water supply like a stream or a pond nearby. And, most people know that many berries and plants are edible. But what about in the desert, where there’s no water and scant food?

Water isn’t easily found in the desert and because of this those who get lost should ration sweat, not water. Staying in the shade and limiting activity to cooler times, such as nights can greatly increase a person’s chance for survival. As far a food goes; seeds, cattail shoots and the rare small animal may be your only options. Bringing emergency food on a trek through the desert or wilderness should be a top priority. Some examples of what you may bring include; bouillon cubes, trail mix and dried fruit. These items are full of calories and take little space to pack.

Humans need food and water to live and there is nothing worse than when those supplies are threatened or unavailable. In the event of an earthquake or flood emergency drinking water supplies can be lost or ruined. Purifying water isn’t rocket science—but how many people know how to do it? These following instructions can guide anyone to make purify their own emergency drinking water.

1. Boil water vigorously for 5-10 minutes.
2. Or, using an eye dropper, add 8 drops of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water, 16 drops if the water is cloudy, and let stand for 30 minutes.
3. Or, using a 2% tincture of Iodine (from your first aid kit), add 20 drops per gallon of water, 40 drops if the water is cloudy, and let stand for 30 minutes.
4. Or, use water purification tablets available at drug stores and sporting goods stores. Follow directions on the label.
5. Or, use a commercial water filter that removes bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and chemicals.