When nothing looks familiar, and every direction seems to be the same, STOP and think about what to do next!

Survival equipment won’t do much good if you don’t know how to use it. But where can you start to assemble a survival kit or gather the appropriate gear?

Before  investing in any equipment, start with a realistic assessment of your wilderness survival skills and needs.  Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I know anything? Be honest. It doesn’t matter how much survival stuff you have, it’s worthless if you can’t, or don’t know how, to use it. Take a good look at your skills and abilities, and face your inadequacies.
• Will I make a commitment to learn? Again, be honest, and don’t put this off. If you don’t know how to use a map and compass, perform first aid, or make an emergency shelter, or other survival skills, learn now.
• Will I commit to carrying survival gear? If you don’t have the equipment with you, it can’t be used. If you won’t carry a survival kit with you, or make sure it is readily available, then you are wasting your time.

Once you commit to learning how to use and carry survival gear, here are some considerations:

One size doesn’t fit all – survival gear that works in the cold Northwest winter, will be different than equipment designed for Florida, and vice versa.

A good place to start your search for knowledge is by reading this website.  I’ve worked with local people who work with emergencies every day: police, sheriffs departments, search and rescue, and the Red Cross. I’ve written about their recommendations for specific gear for your area.

Also, if you have certain medical needs or conditions, make sure the kit includes the appropriate medications.

Then, practice.  Your families life depends on it.

Check out a small example of typical survival equipment options: