What wildlife can pose threats to crash survivors?

Common Coastal Threats

Crash survivors near coastal areas must be aware of sharks, their primary concern being great whites, tiger sharks, and bull sharks. These sharks are drawn to blood, which can be released from injured survivors or damaged aircraft. To minimize the risk, survivors should avoid entering the water, especially if they have serious injuries, and try to stay calm. If forced to enter the water, they should do so in a group, as sharks are less likely to attack a large group.

Wilderness Threats

In wilderness areas, bears, particularly grizzly bears and black bears, can pose a significant threat to crash survivors. These bears are attracted to food and scents, which can be released from aircraft supplies, injured survivors, or even personal items. Survivors should take measures to secure their gear, avoid attracting bears with food or scents, and make noise while moving through the area to avoid surprising bears. Bear spray can be an effective deterrent, but it should be used as a last resort.

Shelter and Signaling

To minimize encounters with wildlife, crash survivors should prioritize finding shelter and signaling for help. In coastal areas, survivors can use wreckage debris to create a makeshift shelter or signal fire. In wilderness areas, survivors can use natural shelters such as caves or overhangs, or create a lean-to shelter using branches and debris. Signaling for help can be done using mirrors, flares, or smoke signals during the day, and by using a whistle or shouting for help during the night. Survivors should also be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid wildlife encounters while signaling for help.