Survival Skills to Practice Before a Natural Disaster Strikes?

Preparing Your Shelter

When urban disasters strike, having a suitable shelter can mean the difference between life and death. To prepare, practice setting up a basic shelter using readily available materials such as tarps, rope, and branches. For example, you can create a simple lean-to shelter by attaching a tarp to two sturdy poles, securing it with rope. This can provide protection from wind, rain, and debris. Practice assembling a portable shelter kit that includes essential tools and materials.

Navigating with a Compass

In the chaos of a disaster, it can be difficult to determine your location or find your way to safety. Practicing navigation skills with a compass can help you stay orientated and avoid getting lost. Learn how to use a compass to determine direction, and practice using it to navigate through familiar and unfamiliar terrain. Familiarize yourself with the features of a compass, including the bezel, dial, and orientation arrow. Practice setting a course and navigating to a predetermined location.

Basic First Aid and Hygiene

Disasters often leave individuals without access to medical care or clean water. To prepare, practice basic first aid techniques such as wound cleaning, splinting, and dressing. Learn how to identify and treat common injuries, such as cuts, burns, and broken bones. Practice building a basic first aid kit that includes essential supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Additionally, practice water purification techniques, such as boiling or using a water filter, to ensure access to clean drinking water.