Drink Water and Find Food

Drink Water to Prevent Dehydration

Even in cool weather, you need two to four quarts of water a day. Under most conditions, people can last only about three days without water.

Most hunters usually carry a water bottle or canteen. Don’t panic because panicking tends to make you thirstier.

• Pure drinking water is rare, even in the most remote regions. Clear mountain streams, as well as most surface water, is often contaminated by Giardia lamblia, a parasite that causes serious intestinal illness in humans.
  • Boiling is an effective way to disinfect water.
  • Chemical purifiers, such as dioxide tablets or chlorine, can be used; but some may not be satisfactory.
  • Filtration systems are also a means of disinfecting water.
• In northern climates, don’t eat snow because it can drop your core body temperature. Pack the snow into your canteen or water bottle, and then melt it by setting it close to the fire. Be careful not to melt your water bottle.

Eat Some Food

Humans can go for two weeks or more without food. Although the need for food is not that urgent, you’ll be more comfortable and clear-headed if you eat.

• Anywhere there is game, there is food, but probably not what you’re accustomed to eating. Before you head into a remote area, it’s a good idea to read up on what’s edible in that particular region. You may be able to harvest the bulk of your food with your hunting equipment.
• It is always a good idea to carry extra food, such as energy bars, with you.