What specific techniques should every survival course cover?

Basic Shelter Building Techniques

A week-long survival course should dedicate at least 2 days to teaching students how to build a shelter. This can be done in a controlled environment with access to materials such as tarps, rope, and branches. Students should learn how to build a lean-to, debris hut, and snow shelter, as well as how to use natural shelters like caves and overhangs. Instructors should emphasize the importance of choosing a safe location, using proper construction techniques, and maintaining a well-ventilated shelter.

Fire Starting and Water Purification Methods

Fire starting and water purification are crucial skills for any survival situation. A survival course should teach students at least 3 different primitive fire starting methods, including friction methods like the bow drill and hand drill, and solar methods like the magnifying glass. Students should also learn how to build a solar still, use a LifeStraw to purify water, and how to boil water using a portable stove or a makeshift solar still. Instructors should emphasize the importance of water testing and purification in preventing waterborne illnesses.

Navigation and First Aid Techniques

Navigation and first aid are critical skills for survival. A survival course should teach students how to use a compass, read a map, and navigate using the sun, stars, and landmarks. Students should also learn basic first aid techniques such as wound cleaning and dressing, splinting, and treating hypothermia and dehydration. Instructors should emphasize the importance of identifying and treating potential hazards such as snake bites, spider bites, and heat exhaustion.