Should I prioritize food or shelter after a crash?

Protecting Yourself from the Elements

Your primary concern after a plane crash is to find or create a shelter. This should be your first priority, as it will protect you from the elements, wildlife, and debris. Look for a natural shelter like a cave, overhang, or group of trees. If you can’t find one, create a lean-to using branches, a tarp, or a piece of the plane’s fuselage. Aim to create a shelter that can block wind, rain, and sun.

Finding or Creating a Reliable Source of Food

Once you have a basic shelter, focus on finding or creating a reliable source of food. In a remote location, you may have to resort to foraging for wild edibles, fishing, or hunting. Familiarize yourself with local edible plants and their habitats. A good rule of thumb is to stick to plants that have large leaves, bright colors, or distinctive odors. When it comes to hunting or fishing, use a makeshift spear or fishing line made from available materials. Aim to catch at least 1-2 pounds of food per person per day.

Signaling for Help

As you settle into your shelter, make sure to signal for help. Use any available materials like flares, rocks, or debris to create a visible signal fire or smoke signal. Aim to create a signal that can be seen from at least 10 miles away. This should be done during the day, as night signals are less effective.