In our continuing adventure on survival, it has been assumed that we were trying to keep hidden or protect ourselves and our resources after some disaster, the collapse of the government, maybe a Zombie Apocalypse, but what if it’s just a localized catastrophe, a tornado, earthquake, flood, or even Mount Saint Helens blowing its top killing hundreds and putting even a greater number in harm’s way.
Many of us live our lives with the attitude that we are responsible for our survival. That is true, we are responsible and we should be resilient in our everyday lives. However, sometimes we all need a little help. If help is even coming. I don’t put much stock in a Zombie Apocalypse, however, I do like to try to prepare for all scenarios. with that in mind, let’s pretend, let’s say yes help is coming.
Signaling
Signaling as a survival technique is an ability to alert potential rescuers that you need help. Fire, again a survival technique in itself can be used. Flashing lights, bright color markers, flags, mirrors, and sound, whistles can all attract attention and help you be found. Three fires in a triangular form is a recognized distress signal. Just make sure you carefully set your fires and clear the area to not cause a great threat to yourself by creating a wildfire. Use green organic materials to create smoke during the day. Use signal mirrors only when you can see people or planes. Strobe lights are much more effective at night, conserve your batteries so when they will be the most effective. Lay out signals ground so they can be seen, in open fields. Use rocks logs, or bright-colored clothing, whatever can be easily seen against the background you are placing these air signals. Most search and rescue parties use aircraft as a primary method of a sighting.
If you can try to carry extra batteries for flashlights, a small solar recharger, and a backup battery pack for your phone. Almost all phones have apps that can aid you, thru information, a flashlight, a compass, or a polished mirror-like glass surface so you can use them as a signaling device.
The bottom of a soda can when polished with a candy bar which can be used to start a fire by reflecting sunlight. Full disclosure I have never tried it, me being lazy I always opt for the easy way, a disposable lighter if one is available is my go-to method. If it is bright enough to create fire it can be used to signal with. There are many tips, tricks, and hacks that can aid you in all areas of survival. Whether starting fires, providing shelter, purifying water, helping in land navigation, plant recognition, or using as a signaling device a cell phone is a useful tool. And let’s not forget its primary reason for buying one communication, you can call for help. Along with your clear, rational, thinking mind, a cell phone may very well be one of the most important pieces of technology that many of us carry every day, and can aid you in a survival situation.
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