Food is important for the human body to function properly, but is actually quite low on the priority list. This is because you can actually survive for several weeks without food. 

However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be looking for food. The longer you go without fueling your body, the weaker you will get, which will affect your physical ability and decision making skills which are vital for survival.

After securing the other survival priorities, look for food to fill in your stomach. 

The best way to get help is to send a distress signal. Here are some of the most effective ways to signal rescuers. 

This includes things such as your cell phone or hand held radio. If you are lucky enough to have something like this, conserve your battery until you can get signal and/or a response. Try on high points such as the top of hills

The internationally recognized signal for the word “Help!” are three consecutive loud sounds. It could be loud sound blasts, a shout, an emergency whistle, a horn, three gunshots, and such. 

Search your belongings for brightly colored items spread them on the ground where potential rescuers will see it. Open areas are best. 

Creating a flag with these items is another good way to attract attention.

A signal mirror is useful in flashing the sunlight towards potential rescuers. If you don’t have a mirror, you can use an old CD or some glasses. 

When signaling for rescue, put your other hand up and create a V-sign with your two fingers. Tilt the mirror back and forth to create flashes which is better for attraction attention. 

A smoky fire can help the rescuers pinpoint your location. When creating a cloud of smoke for signaling, use wet wood, moss, ferns, and wet leaves. These types of materials will make the smoke much thicker and easier to see. 

You can spell out the “H E L P” on the ground for plane rescuers to see. It is also helpful to know the technical usage of codes. Here are three you can easily remember:

This last survival priority is by no means the least important. In fact, depending on your situation it may be the first thing you need to acquire. Unlike food, your body can’t go without water for more than a few days. It is also useful for cooking and cleaning.

Do your best to keep yourself hydrated at all times. You can check if you are dehydrated by looking at the color of your urine. If it is a dark yellow, you are not drinking enough. 

The best places to find water are valley bottoms, rock cliff bases, streams, hollow stumps, and rocks with depression. Water purity is also extremely important. The clearer water is, the higher the probability that it is safe to drink. However, there are no guarantees and it is best to purify all water with methods such as boiling before consumption.

Knowing the 7 priorities of survival in emergencies such as being lost in the wilderness will help keep you alive. 

Preparation is your first line of defense. Make sure that everything on your survival kit list is in your bag. This will help ensure that your basic survival needs are met until you find your way back to civilization in case you get lost. 

Knowledge will always be your greatest weapon in the face of danger. Using the above survival techniques in the wilderness will help increase your chances of staying alive.

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