Outdoor Survival Pt. 4
- by Leon Harms
The Importance of Water and How To Find It
After we have secured our body temperature, we need to remain hydrated in order for biological processes to take place. The human body is 75 % water and needs a constant supply of water to function. Water is essential to life. The average person can survive for three days without water. Don't wait until you run out of water before you look for more. Your body loses 2-3 liters (4-6 pints) of water each day through sweating and urination, more if you are hot or exerting a lot of energy. This water must be replaced.
Finding water is critical, if not dehydration will inevitably occur. The first symptoms you will face are weakness and decreased mental capacity. Your health problem will become more serious until they result in death.
To prevent water loss just rest, keep cool, stay in shade, seek shelter. Avoid fatty foods and alcohol - digestion uses up fluids. Don't wait until you run out of water before you look for more.
The most common signs and symptoms of dehydration are:
- Dark urine with a very strong odor.
- Low urine output.
- Dark, sunken eyes.
- Fatigue.
- Emotional instability.
- Loss of skin elasticity.
- Delayed capillary refill in fingernail beds.
- Trench line down center of tongue.
- Thirst. Last on the list because you are already 20 percent dehydrated by the time you crave fluids.
How to find water in the wilderness
Locating water is possible in virtually any wilderness environment. But to be successful finding water you need to understand different indicators of water.
First look for surface water such as streams, rivers and lakes. Running water such as springs or streams in isolated areas at high altitudes is probably safe for consumption. But be aware, for example melt water from ice and glaciers contain bacteria in abundance.
If you don't know the area and are unsure about the water quality, purify the water. Take no risk.
In areas where no surface water is available, dig into damp soil and allow this muddy water to settle and become clear or learn how to make a water filter. Be careful of stagnant water with little or no signs of life.
Survival without water is not possible so to increase your chances in finding water, look for the following:
- A good tool in finding water is your map. Almost all water source of any size will be marked on a geodesic map.
- Seek water in valleys and low areas are places where water naturally drains.
- Seek water in rock crevices. Rainwater may have been collected.
- Look for muddy or damp ground.
- Patches of green vegetation may indicate water supply of some sort.
- Seek out places where animal tracks converge –a water source may be near by.
- Look for insects, as they often stay close to water.
Conclusion:
If you and your family are or will be doing outdoor related activities a family camping skills school will provide the basic wilderness knowledge, safety and skills your family will use to hike and camp safely and sensibly for many years to come. Wild Vistas Adventures LLC is a school where individuals, families and groups can enjoy and learn outdoor wilderness skills.
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