Hello ladies, Jade Tripp here, your go-to expert in women’s self defense, personal protection, preparedness, and prepping. Today, I want to talk to you about the 7 essential skills every wilderness survivor needs to know. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, a hike in the mountains, or just want to be prepared for any unexpected outdoor situations, these skills are crucial for your safety and survival.

1. Fire Starting: One of the most important skills to know in the wilderness is how to start a fire. Fire can provide warmth, cook food, and signal for help in emergency situations. Practice using different methods such as a lighter, matches, or even primitive methods like a fire bow.

Real-life example: Sarah, a hiker in Colorado, got lost in the wilderness and used her fire starting skills to stay warm until rescuers found her the next day.

2. Navigation: Knowing how to navigate in the wilderness is key to finding your way back to safety. Learn how to use a map and compass, as well as natural signs like the sun, stars, and landmarks. Practice navigating in different terrains to build your skills.

Real-life example: Emily, a backpacker in Alaska, used her navigation skills to find her way back to the trail after getting off course during a storm.

3. Shelter Building: In case of an emergency, knowing how to build a shelter can protect you from the elements and keep you safe. Learn how to make a simple lean-to or debris hut using natural materials you find in the wilderness.

Real-life example: Jessica, a camper in Montana, built a shelter out of branches and leaves when her tent got destroyed in a storm.

4. Water Purification: Staying hydrated is essential for survival, but drinking contaminated water can make you sick. Learn how to purify water using methods like boiling, filtration, or chemical treatments to ensure it’s safe to drink.

Real-life example: Maria, a trekker in Africa, purified water from a river using a portable filter and avoided getting sick during her trip.

5. First Aid: Accidents can happen in the wilderness, so knowing basic first aid skills can save lives. Take a wilderness first aid course to learn how to treat injuries like cuts, burns, sprains, and bites until help arrives.

Real-life example: Taylor, a rock climber in Utah, used her first aid training to bandage a fellow climber’s finger after he got cut on sharp rocks.

6. Food Foraging: In a survival situation, knowing how to find edible plants, fruits, and insects can provide you with much-needed nutrition. Familiarize yourself with local flora and fauna, and always be cautious when foraging for food.

Real-life example: Olivia, a backpacker in California, found wild berries and mushrooms to supplement her food supply while lost in the wilderness.

7. Self-Defense: Last but not least, knowing how to defend yourself in the wilderness is crucial for your safety. Learn basic self-defense techniques, carry a personal protection tool like pepper spray, and always be aware of your surroundings to avoid dangerous situations.

Real-life example: Samantha, a solo hiker in Oregon, used her self-defense skills to fight off a wild animal that threatened her during a hike.

Remember, being prepared is the key to surviving in the wilderness. Practice these essential skills, stay vigilant, and never underestimate the power of being knowledgeable and resourceful in outdoor situations. Stay safe out there, ladies!