Having hung up the surf gear and headed inland for winter, perhaps a little adventure out into the great British outdoors seems tempting. Discounting the girl Guides and Scouts, most average folks are unfamiliar with things like kindling, water sourcing and illnesses like hypothermia and shock. One thing most people CAN do is find a nice little hole to do their “business” in!
In the UK it’s actually quite difficult to get good and lost in the average belt of countryside. Of course mountain safety is a pressing issue, with the likes of Snowdon and the Peak District unfortunately claiming the lives of outdoor enthusiasts. These accidents and events are thankfully rare, and the majority of lost folks simply spend a cold, muggy few hours waiting for help or seeking assistance.
Illness
Shock, dehydration and hypothermia are particularly cruel in their symptoms, not least because identification of the symptoms largely requires an individual NOT to have them, since they include severe disorientation and body temperature misunderstanding (folks peeling off wetsuits, surf gear, mountaineering equipment and even their walking boots under the misapprehension of being “too hot” in minus temperatures is not uncommon)
Water
Thanks to the increase in potential for shock and dehydration, keeping the body hydrated becomes more important than ever. Avoid stagnant water and opt for running water (the higher the source the better)
Fire
Fires attract helpful attention and provide warmth. A spark can be as simple as a pair of glasses combined with the sun’s rays, but more often than not a flint should be included in ever outdoor survival kit. Look for kindling (dry, small pieces of wood) and fuel (larger dry pieces of wood)
Shelter
Keeping out of the wind is preferable. Look for shelter but always leave something colourful or notable well within sight to signify presence and direct helpers accurately.