Prioritizing survival tasks — what comes first in a crisis?

Assessing the Situation

When faced with a crisis, it’s essential to quickly assess the environment and prioritize actions based on the level of danger. Take note of any hazards such as steep slopes, fast-moving water, or extreme temperatures. If you’re in a familiar area, recall the nearest safe zone, such as a park or a building. If you’re lost, use your knowledge of navigation and mapping to estimate your location. This initial assessment will help you determine the level of risk and inform your decision on whether to stay or go.

Prioritizing Shelter and Water

Once you’ve assessed the situation, prioritize finding or creating a safe shelter and securing a reliable water source. A shelter can protect you from the elements, wildlife, and other hazards. Aim to create a basic lean-to or debris hut using natural materials such as branches, leaves, and snow. If you’re in a survival situation for an extended period, aim to create a more permanent shelter using techniques such as building a snow shelter or a debris hut with a sturdy frame. For water, look for sources such as streams, rivers, or ponds, and purify the water using techniques such as boiling, sand filtration, or solar disinfection. Aim to collect at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

Starting a Fire and Signaling for Help

After securing a shelter and water source, prioritize starting a fire for warmth, light, and signaling for help. Use techniques such as flint and steel, bow drill, or magnifying glass to generate a spark. Aim to start a fire within the first hour of arriving at your shelter, as this will help you stay warm and visible to potential rescuers. Once you have a fire, use it to signal for help by creating smoke during the day and using a mirror or other reflective surface to signal during the night.