A survival kit is good insurance

I was a 4-H Outdoorsman project leader a number of years ago and enjoyed the opportunity to spend time outside with the next generation of outdoors enthusiasts. I was always impressed with the variety and quality of the projects they made, especially the survival kits. In a very compact package the members provided everything you might need if you had to survive for a few days without the creature comforts we come to rely on every day.

With hunting season now open many Pictou County residents will soon be heading out into the woods. All hunters in Nova Scotia are required by law to carry three survival items: matches, a knife or axe and a working compass. These are only the basics however and not only hunters need to think about carrying a survival kit.

Anglers, hikers, or anyone heading off the beaten path should be prepared to spend a night in the woods. With the uncertain weather we have been experiencing in recent years it is probably a good idea for all of us to have some emergency equipment in our homes and cars. Most experts suggest a survival kit should provide what you need to survive for 72 hours.

If you get lost, become injured and can’t travel, or are in a situation where you don’t have heat and light a survival kit must meet several critical requirements. These include shelter, heat and some way to signal for help. One of the most critical elements for any survival kit is the ability to make a fire. Your kit should include at least two methods such as strike anywhere matches, either waterproof or in a waterproof case and a disposal lighter. Some people include a small candle, as well as tinder, dryer lint works well, to help start a fire on wet days.

When possible, try to include as many items which will serve a dual purpose. An example is heavy duty garbage bags. In a pinch you can make a rain poncho or split two bags, join them with duct tape and you have a tent. They can also carry and store water.

Duct tape also serves many purposes, including fire starting as it burns very well. If you are lost or injured you want to be found as soon as possible so your kit should include some signaling devices such as a mirror and whistle. Your fire will also serve as a source of smoke to signal rescuers. You should also tell someone your plans, or leave a note, so rescuers will know where to begin looking for you. Most of us carry a phone these days and they are a great help if you need to contact help, as long as you have cell coverage.

Other items to include in your kit range from aluminum foil or fishing line and hooks to snare wire and a small flashlight. If you are making a kit for home then add some cash in case the power is out for prolonged period and you can’t access the banking machines. Every survival kit should also contain some basic first aid items. These could range from a few aspirins and band aids to surgical tape, dressings and antiseptic.

While you may want to include every possible item in your kit don’t forget you have to carry this with you if you are heading in the woods.

While you can make up a more complete kit for your car, camp or your home, the one you take with you in the woods should be light and compact. I hope you never have to use your kit but carrying one is cheap insurance in case things go awry.

Don MacLean is an outdoor writer and biologist who lives in Pictou County.