Quick Answer
After a plane crash, be aware of wildlife dangers such as bears, snakes, and other animals seeking food from the wreckage and surrounding area. Take precautions to secure food and trash, and be prepared for encounters. Move cautiously to avoid startling animals.
Assessing the Environment and Wildlife Risks
The immediate aftermath of a plane crash is a vulnerable time for both survivors and wildlife. Assess the environment to gauge the risks of encountering certain species. If you’re in a region with bears, keep a safe distance from food sources and secure trash, as bears can smell food from far away. In regions with venomous snakes, be cautious when walking through wreckage and debris, and avoid reaching into dark or hidden areas.
Securing Shelter and Food
To minimize the risk of wildlife encounters, prioritize securing shelter and food. Choose a location with a natural barrier between you and potential threats, such as a hill, stream, or thicket. Use wreckage materials to construct a makeshift shelter, and keep food and trash at least 100 yards away from the shelter. Consider creating a “latrine” area for waste disposal to prevent attracting wildlife.
Signaling for Help and Wildlife Coexistence
While signaling for help is crucial, it’s essential to coexist with wildlife in the surrounding area. Avoid using loud noises or sudden movements that may startle animals. Use signaling devices such as flares or mirrors between 10am and 3pm when possible, as these hours offer the best visibility. If you encounter wildlife, remain calm and slowly back away, giving the animal a clear path to leave. Never approach or feed wildlife, as this can lead to aggressive behavior.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.