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SURVIVAL SKILLS HANDBOOK

DANGERS AND
EMERGENCIES
Se MGC CSU Ta aT
 ? Bear
Grylls
SURVIVAL SKILLS HANDBOOK

DANGERS AND
EMERGENCIES
 Central Library, Henry Street,
An Larleabharlann, Sréid Annraol
A Bear | Tel: 8734333
Grylls

This survival handbook has been specially put

together to help young adventurers just like you
to stay safe in the wild. There is so much out there
to explore and experience, yet it is vital that you
remain unharmed as you pursue new adventures.

7
Our planet and its creatures can be dangerous at
times, so learn the skills you need, and remain
safe in the face of adversity.

ips ee —
f mr SOR e aig
\ oy
 CONTENTS
Stay safe in the wild

Dangerous animals

Dangerous plants

Quicksand
Sourcing water

Water from plants

Water purification

Food from plants

Hunting small animals

Edible invertebrates

Emergency shelters
STAY SAFE IN THE WILD
When you set out on an adventure it is very important to be fully
prepared in case you come into contact with danger. There are
many ways to get help and avoid harm, so do your homework
and stay safe.

Signalling for help raise one arm

in the air
In an emergency your first contact
with the outside world is likely
to be a search aircraft. Make
this contact count by learning ©
standard ground-to-air signals. raise both
You can use objects, as well as arms in
your own body, to seek help. the air

Allis well Pick us up

hold both
arms out

hold out your

place both right arm
arms behind
your head

Need mechanical help Have radio Can proceed shortly

 Grylls

lay down with both your

arms above your head

BEAR SAYS
If you are in distress, these
signals could save your life.
Choose a large, open area
where you are most likely
to be seen.

Do not attempt
to land here
Land here
bend your knees and
hold both arms out in
front of you, pointing in
the direction of landing

wave a piece of
material from
.
side to side

wave a
hold one piece of
arm out material up
and wave {| and down
itup and ©
down

Use drop message Negative (no) Affirmative (yes)

Leabharlanna Poibli Chathair Baile Atha Cliath o
 Fire cones
Keep these primed with plenty of dry
fuel, and ready to go at all times.

marks your position

more clearly than
fire. Use fuel Y
sources suchas $f
green branches
and rubber.

Wherever you are in the world,

three objects together signal
distress. Don’t forget this
international call for help!

Life rafts
In thick jungle, the only clear area may be a river. Tether together
4 three rafts loaded with fuel for a jungle distress signal.
 A Bear
Grylls

Smoke flare

flare smoke is usually red

or orange and is designed
to be seen up to 5 km
(3 mi) away

end cap with pull cord

firing mechanism inside

Other types of signals

strobe lights give

out flashes of light
to draw attention

LED flares give out light

when an electric current
flows through them

rocket flares can be seen

LV up to 40 km (20 mi) away
in good conditions

signal kite -
these work
best with a
strobe light
attached

rocket flare
Signal mirror sunlight
Rte

aim with your

fingers and
reflect sunlight
signal mirror with across them
sighting hole

A mirror is the most valuable means of signalling in daylight, as reflections can easily
attract attention. Make sure to pack one if you are going off the beaten track.

Personal locator beacons f

High-tech personal locator beacons (PLBs) are small, lightweight
devices that can be used in an emergency anywhere in the world.
First of all, the PLB is activated (1), then a signal is sent to a satellite
network in space (2). A ground station then receives the signal
relayed by a satellite (3). The search and rescue coordination centre
is alerted (4) and then help is sent (5).
 A Bear
Grylls

Aircraft signals

A rocking wing Flying clockwise

If a plane rocks its wings the pilot has This manoeuvre indicates that your signal
understood your signal. is not understood.

Prepare a helicopter landing zone

helicopters land at
an angle and need ©
a clear approach, _ mark the boundary of the landing
ideally downwind zone with bright, weighed-down
clothes or tarpaulins

a alte,

a— ee

_-— Clear an area of at least

18 m (60 ft) in diameter -
the ground should be as = -“s oa
flat as possible ng Magee

i ee ee
—__ fe

aPZ.
a SPZa was eee
stand outside the 5 ce
“ landing zone, but
- make sure you are attach arfabric
ee to see to a pole to show t,
a wah
te = lee
wind direction
DANGEROUS ANIMALS
Most creatures will avoid human contact, but it pays to know what
species are dangerous and what your defences are.

Insects
Insects are small, often winged animals with six legs.
Most are harmless, but some can be deadly.

Bee Ant Wasps and hornets

A bee sting.is painful but Ant stings range from Relatives of bees and ants,
only life-threatening to harmless to agonizing. Be these insects can sting
those who are allergic. sure to avoid the bullet over and over. They can be
If you are attacked bya ant of Central and South aggressive when seeking
swarm of bees, run away America. Its sting Is food, and are drawn to
from the point of first considered the most painful sweet odours. Stay away
contact, protect your face, of any bee, wasp, or ant. from nests as allergic
and seek shelter. reactions can be fatal.

Mosquito Flea Tsetse flies

The mosquito is one of A flea bite is normally just These large, blood-sucking
the deadliest creatures an irritation, but they can insects are found in Africa
on Earth. Mosquito- lead to many diseases, between the Sahara and the
borne diseases are including Lyme disease and Kalahari deserts. They carry
a big problem in the even bubonic plague. It is the parasite that causes
tropics, but can occur in sensible to consider them sleeping sickness, which
temperate regions too. as a threat. can be fatal.
 A Bear
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adult
Botfly
An egg of the human botfly (native to Mexico, Central, and South America) hatches
when it detects human warmth. The larva then burrows into the skin where it grows for
about eight weeks. They may cause painful swellings but are otherwise harmless.

How to remove a botfly larva

1The larva needs to 2 Apply pressure around 3 Pull until the larva
breathe, so cut off its the wound and grasp is completely out.
air supply by covering the larva tail withtweezers Clean and bandage
it with duct tape. when it comes out. the wound.

centipede

f }
Z
BEAR SAYS
Centipedes, especially the
larger species, can inflict
painful, venomous bites.
If bitten, clean the wound
and seek help.
 Arachnids
Arachnids have eight legs and a body made up of two parts.
These are some of the most dangerous kinds.

BEAR SAYS
To remove atick, use thin Hard tick Soft tick
tweezers, and grasp the tick as These tiny bloodsucking The less common soft
close to the skin as possible. ' arachnids areresponsible ticks have a rounded,
Pull upwards with a steady, for the spread of many leathery appearance with
even pressure. illnesses. The hard tick mouthparts that can’t be
family comprises the seen from above. They
majority of tick species. feed mostly on birds and
They have a hard shield- small mammals, but will
like plate just behind also choose human hosts.
their mouthparts.

Scorpion
About 25 species of scorpions can kill. They live in northern Africa, the Middle East,
India, Mexico, and parts of South America. Most of the other 1,000 or so species can
deliver a very painful sting.
 mE
% Bear
Grylls

Funnel-web spider Widow spider Brazilian wandering

There are about 40 species Many spiders in this animal spider
of funnel-web spiders group are highly venomous. This group of aggressive
in Australia. The highly Well-known species include spiders is found in
venomous Sydney funnel- the black widow (North Central and South
web spider is possibly the America), the redback America, and in banana
world’s most dangerous spider (Australia) and shipments worldwide.
spider. It is likely to strike button spiders (southern Their venom is the most
repeatedly if disturbed. Africa). Bites can be deadly. toxic of any spider.

Recluse spider
Bites from these spiders
can cause Cell tissue death
requiring skin grafts and
Tarantula other surgery in extreme
These frightening-looking spiders are actually quite cases. Mild skin damage
timid. Most bites are similar to a wasp sting, although one and itchiness is more
species causes hallucinations. Some kinds shed irritating common, however.
hairs as a form of defence.
Reptiles
Cold-blooded creatures, such as reptiles are covered with scales or bony
plates. Snakes and lizards belong to this group — and many can deliver a
potentially fatal bite.

American snakes

Copperhead Rattlesnake Bushmaster

These well-camouflaged These snakes cause the This genus of large
North American snakes majority of snake injuries venomous vipers
will often freeze when and deaths in North is found in remote forested
feeling threatened. This America (even so, deaths areas of Central and South
means that bites often are very rare). Despite America. The bushmaster is
happen when they are their deadly reputation, capable of repeated strikes
stepped on by accident. rattlesnakes are timid, and the injection of large
Luckily, their bites are normally giving a warning amounts of venom.
rarely fatal. rattle when alarmed.

Cottonmouth
This viper is native to the
south-eastern United
Coral snake States. A cottonmouth will
There are over 65 recognized species of coral snakes vibrate its tail and throw
in the Americas. They have very potent venom, but its mouth open as a threat
because of their mild nature and small fangs, deaths display. Bites are painful
and injuries are rare. Many harmless snakes mimic the and can be fatal.
coral snakes’ colouration for protection.
 A Bear
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African and Asian snakes

Boomslang Cobra Krait

The venom of this sub- Most cobra species rear This group of snakes is
Saharan snake works as up and spread their found in the jungles of
a hemotoxin — even small necks in a threat display. India and Southeast Asia.
amounts will cause severe Some can “spit” venom They are armed witha
internal and external up to 2.5 m (8 ft). They aim neurotoxin that causes
bleeding. They will strike for their attacker’s eyes. muscle paralysis (loss
fast if disturbed. A direct hit causes severe of movement).
burning pain.

Saw-scaled viper Puff adder Mamba

These small snakes live This snake species is Most mamba species
in dry savannah habitats. responsible for more are tree-dwelling. The
They make a rasping snake bite deaths in Africa exception is the land-
sound when alarmed by than any other. When based black mamba —
rubbing the sides of their approached, it draws its the world’s fastest, and
bodies together. They are head close to its coils, Africa’s deadliest, snake.
very dangerous. makes a loud hissing sound Untreated, its bite is fatal.
and is quick to strike.
Australian snakes

Red-bellied black
The red-bellied black
is commonly found in
woodlands, forests,
swamplands, and urban
Eastern brown snake - areas of eastern Australia.
This snake species is responsible for most deaths caused They usually avoid attack.
by snakebite in Australia. Its venom is the most toxic of Bites are dangerous but
any land snake in the world, except for the inland taipan. rarely fatal.

Taipan Tiger snake Death adder

All species in this group The common tiger snake is Death adders are
are dangerous. The inland found in Southern and found in most parts of
taipan is viewed as the most Eastern Australia. Their Australia, New Guinea,
venomous land snake in the highly toxic venom is and nearby islands.
world. However, the human produced in large amounts. They have relatively large
population of its habitat The venom mainly affects fangs and toxic venom.
is low, and all bite victims the central nervous system, Before the introduction
have been successfully but also causes muscle of antivenom, about
treated with antivenom. damage, and affects 60 per cent of bites to
blood clotting. humans were fatal.
 % Bear
Grylls

Sea snakes

Hydrophiinae
Found in warm coastal
waters from the Indian
Ocean to the Pacific, some
species have venom more
toxic than any land snake.
Sea snakes are curious and
will readily approach divers
and swimmers, but they are da
generally placid and unlikely
to attack.

European snakes
Adder
The common adder is the only poisonous snake
of Northern Europe. It is widespread in highly

BEAR SAYS
populated areas, and bites are fairly common
— but very rarely fatal. The common adder has
several larger and more dangerous relatives in
southern Europe.
Snake venom can be deadly.
It can contain neurotoxins
that affect the body’s nervous
system, or hemotoxins that
destroy red blocd cells.
Stay away!
 Avoiding snakebites
Snakes are timid creatures.
Unless they are stepped on,
cornered, or handled, they
present very little danger to
humans. When you are in their
habitat, follow these tips to
avoid a bite. stout boots and gaiters
will protect vulnerable
body parts low to the
ground
carry a stick and use
it to push aside logs
and shrubbery

keep to cleared tracks -—

as much as possible
am .

1 Snakebites usually 2 Continue as far up the 3 Applya splint to the limb

occur on a limb. Start limb as possible. This slows —_and keep it below the level
applying a pressure the movement of the venom _ of the heart. Keep the victim
bandage just above the andthe onset of symptoms. calm and make sure their
toes or fingers. breathing is regular.
|18), ~ —
 A
Lizards

BEAR SAYS
It is rare for a snake to actually
chase a person, so if you come
Gila monster across one in the wild, stay calm
This venomous species is native to the
and back away slowly.
south-western US and the north-western
Mexican state of Sonora. Although a Gila bite
is extremely painful, none has resulted ina
confirmed human death.

Beaded lizard
A close relative of the Gila
monster, the beaded lizard
is found mostly in Mexico
and southern Guatemala.
Its bite causes terrible pain,
swelling, and a rapid drop in
blood pressure.

Crocodile
Two crocodile species —
the Nile crocodile and the
saltwater crocodile — are
maneaters. Stay well away
from water where they are
known to be present.

Alligator
The American alligator is
native to the south-eastern US.
Alligators occasionally attack
unprovoked, and their bites can
cause dangerous infections.
Aquatic animals
Our oceans, rivers, and lakes can be deadly places. Knowing and recognizing
these creatures is highly important if you are spending time near water.

Piranha
The mouths of these South American
freshwater fish are packed with sharp
triangular teeth that can puncture
and rip. While they will not strip
humans to the bone, piranhas will
take bites of flesh and remove toes.

Candiru
The Amazon’s most feared fish usually
survives by invading the gills of larger
fish, where it feeds on blood. However,
it has also been known to lodge itself
in the human urethra (the tube that
connects the bladder to the outside
of the body).

Bull shark
This shark species lives
in both the open ocean
and hundreds of miles up
rivers. Because of their
wide habitat range and
aggression, many experts
consider them the most
dangerous shark species.

Electric eel
When angry, these large South American fish can deliver
a burst of 600 volts — more than enough to kill. However,
such deaths are very rare.
 A Bear
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Flower urchin
Many sea urchins are armed with sharp spines
and should be avoided. The spines of a flower
urchin inject an extremely toxic venom. Injuries
are very painful, and deaths have been reported.

Box jellyfish
These deadly jellyfish live in coastal waters off northern
Australia and throughout the Indo-Pacific. A box jellyfish
sting is so excruciating and overwhelming that a victim
can go into shock and drown if swimming alone.
Heart failure often follows.

Portuguese man-of-war
The sting of the Portuguese
man-of-war causes severe
pain and in some cases, fever
and shock as well as heart and
breathing problems. To treat,
remove any stingers that are
still attached, wash with
seawater, then submerge the
affected area in hot water.

Cone shell
These pretty marine snails use unique venoms
to hunt their prey. A sting from a large cone
shell brings severe pain and is potentially fatal.
Treat as though it is a snakebite =
there is no antivenom cure.
 Blue-ringed octopus
These octopus live in tide
pools in the Pacific Ocean
from Japan to Australia.
Although small and docile,
they carry enough venom
to kill 26 adults within
minutes. Stings can bring
total paralysis without loss
of consciousness. Victims
require artificial respiration
for survival.

Needle fish
These shallow marine-dwelling fish make short
jumps out of the water at speeds up to 65 km/h
(40 mph). Their sharp beaks can inflict
deep wounds and often break
off inside the victim.

Toadfish
Venomous toadfish dweil in
tropical waters off the coasts
SSS SSS
aoeere 2 po NT
ita Deca of Central and South America.
SS PMU Ba
a They y have very y sharp, sharpve
, very
poisonous spines hidden in
their dorsal fins. They bury
themselves in the sand and
are easily stepped on.

Stonefish
The world’s most venomous
fish, live in the coastal waters
of the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Symptoms of its venom are
muscle weakness, temporary
paralysis, and shock, which
may cause death if not treated.
 A Bear
(eToik

Although greatly feared, shark attacks on humans are extremely

rare. No species is thought to target people as prey. Only a few
kinds (the great white, tiger, and bull shark) have been involved
in a significant number of fatal, unprovoked attacks.

Lionfish
This genus of aggressive
fish is native to the tropical
Indo-Pacific and has been
introduced into the Atlantic
coastal waters of the United
States. Its venom can result
in vomiting, fever, and
sweating, and has been
lethal in a few cases.

Stingray
These fish are mostly gentle,
yet have a venomous barbed
sting on the tail. People are
usually stung accidentally
when stepping on a stingray.
Stings can result in pain,
swelling, nausea, and
muscle cramps.
| Mammals
Mammals are warm-blooded animals that have fur or hair on their bodies,
and they feed their babies with milk. Some large mammals, such as these,
can be particularly threatening if disturbed.

American black bear

These medium-sized bears
rarely attack humans but you
should still avoid contact if
possible. The most dangerous
black bears are those that are
hungry or have become used to
human contact.

Brown bear
These large bears are normally
unpredictable, and will attack if they are
surprised or feel threatened. Mothers with
cubs are particularly dangerous. If attacked,
protect the back of the neck and play dead.

Polar bear
Contact with the world’s largest
land carnivore, or meat eater,
should be avoided. A well-fed polar
bear may show signs of curiosity
near humans, while a hungry bear
may stalk, kill, and eat you. Escape
is unlikely without a weapon, but you -
\ could curl up and play dead.
 % Bear
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Vampire bat
The common vampire bat is native to
the American tropics and subtropics.
They will feed on human blood when
horse and cattle are in short supply.
Their bites can cause rabies,
a deadly viral infection.

Bull
There is nothing like a large bull to turn
a pleasant walk into a frightening ordeal.
Never turn your back ona bullthat has ©
its head lowered or is pawing the ground.
Back away slowly.

Rhinoceros
The five living species of rhinoceros
~ are known for charging without
being provoked. With very poor
eyesight, they often panic at
unusual smells and sounds.

BEAR SAYS
Never anger a hippopotamus!
They are responsible for more
human deaths in Africa than any
other large animal.
 Tiger
The tiger is the largest of the cat species.
Human prey appears to be a last resort for
tigers, but individual man-eaters have been
responsible for hundreds of deaths.

Lion
As with tigers, humans are not a favoured prey
of lions. However, where human settlements
encroach on lion territory and regular prey
animals are in short supply, lions will
; hunt and kill humans.

Leopard
Attacks by leopards on humans are
rare, however injured, sick, or struggling
individuals may turn to human flesh. The
“Leopard of Panar” is reported to have killed
as many as 400 people in northern India in
the early years of the twentieth century.

Wolf
Like any large predator, a wolf is potentially
dangerous, and common sense tells us to avoid
them. Fortunately, attacks on people are very
rare. Wolves with the disease rabies, in the
“furious” stage, are the most dangerous.
 % Bear
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DANGEROUS PLANTS
Plants have evolved a range of effective defences against animals
that might want to eat them. Some need just the lightest touch
and you’re in trouble.

Stinging nettle
This plant is common in many temperate parts
of the world. Hairs on the leaves and stems
contain irritating chemicals, which are released
when the plant comes into contact with skin.

stinging hairs

Cacti
Large cactus spines can be removed with tweezers.
Work slowly because some spines have barbed
ends. To remove very small, fine spines, apply duct
tape to the area, then gently remove it.

poison sumac

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac

These plants grow in parts of the United States and
southern Canada. People react differently if they
come into contact with them, but most will
be affected by rashes and blistering.

poison ivy

Stinging trees
There are about 37 species of stinging
trees across Southeast Asia, Australia, and
the Pacific Islands. Avoid the Australian
Gympie-Gympie, as one touch can mean
months of agonizing pain.
 QUICKSAND
Quicksand is a mass of fine sand, silt, and clay that has become
completely saturated with water. While it’s hard to get out of, it is
possible to escape.

1If you feel yourself 2 Unstrap your pack or any other

sinking into quicksand, heavy gear and throw it aside.
act fast.

3 Drop onto your back to spread your

weight. Then, work to free your legs.

ee.
Fees Glee ays!
wee
eave we

4 Use swimming or snake-like motions to return to

solid ground. It may take hours to move a few feet,

BEAR SAYS
but you can take a break at any time.

Escaping from quicksand is a

battle. The number one rule is
to keep calm. Once you have
escaped, clean yourself off to
prevent further harm
bs from chafing.
 % Bear
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SOURCING WATER
lf you are lost or your supplies are running low, your first task should
be to find water. In some places water is easily found, but in arid
(very dry) areas it can be a life-or-death challenge.

Animal indicators
birds flying
low and fast
ants moving
upwards

Follow the animals Ants in a row

All living things need water to survive. Observe the animals A column of ants
in your surroundings and you will get valuable clues. Don’t heading up a tree trunk
forget to look for plants. Unusually green plants in an arid may be heading toa
landscape may indicate water just below the surface. reservoir of water.

Distance to water

Bees Flies Mosquitoes Frogs

Usually within Usually within Usually within Usually in the
5 km (3 mi). 2.5 km (1.5 mi). 450 m (1,500 ft). immediate area.
 A
BEAR SAYS
Don’t give up too soon! You may
need to dig down one metre
(3 ft) or more to reach water.

dig here

Dry riverbed
In a waterless landscape, a dry, sandy riverbed is often the best place to look for
water. The best places to dig are the lowest points, the outside of bends, and near
where green plants are growing.

dig here
Cliff base
Water naturally pools at the base of cliffs and hills. Such pools are deep and often
the last to disappear because they are protected or partially protected from the
sun. If no water is found, dig in places where it would pool after rain.
 A Bear
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pe position well hieie iy

here
oe
PRON
; Nya .

driftwood to keep the

sand from collapsing

rocks to keep the

sand from stirring

Beach
A beach well is just a hole, dug behind the very first sand dune in from the ocean. It
should be about one metre (3 ft) deep. Fresh groundwater seeping towards the ocean
will gather in the well and float on top of the salty seawater.

timber stagnant, unsafe water

shoring

Seepage well
You may come across a stagnant body of water that is cloudy, has a bad flavour or odour,
or is difficult to access. If this happens, dig a well about 10 m (30 ft) from the water
source. The water that fills the well will be filtered and should be safe to drink.
WATER FROM PLANTS
COHCHSSOHSSHSHOSHSSHSHOHSHSHOHHHSHSHSHHSHHSHSHSHHHTHHHHHSHSHSHHHHEHHSH
HHEHHEESE

If you can’t find a water source in the environment around you,

you can search for certain plants that can provide a drink.

machete Mature coconut

Use a sharpened stake
driven into the ground to
split and remove the outer
husk and reveal the shell.
Drive a hole through a soft
“eye” of the shell to access
the coconut water.
Green coconut
Slice open a green coconut with a sharp
knife to access the water inside. Drink
the coconut water in moderation because
it is a natural laxative.

coconut husks

Banana tree
Cut through the trunk of a banana tree about
10 cm (4 in) above the ground. Then, hollow out
a bowl-like reservoir inside the stump. Water
from the roots will gather in the bowl. Scoop
the water out of the bowl three times before
drinking as the water will be bitter at first.

mM 7
D>
carve
bowl here
 y,% Bear
Grylls

Green bamboo
Green bamboo can supply
you with fresh water,
even at the height of the
tropical dry season. To
collect water from a young
stalk, bend it over, tie it
securely, and cut off the
top. Water will drip out of
the cut. Collect it in
a container.
SSS

collection container |

stake and rope

make two 45° Water from a vine

angle cuts Cut a section of a vine high
up. Then, sever it completely
near the ground. Liquid
will drain out the bottom.
Don’t drink from vines that
produce white sap or milky
liquid when cut. Get rid of
liquid that has a sour or
bitter taste.

Big bamboo
For larger shoots of green
bamboo, simply cut a hole
near the base of each ‘
section and collect the
Bett oc Leabharlanna Poibli Chathair Baile Atha Cliath
Transpiration
This is one of the most
efficient and easily
constructed sources of
A
water in an arid setting. Tie BE Boe 7 vi rs
a plastic bag around a leafy ENP ye
Arch of amedium-sized Si WARE My»ie
tree or shrub, and place a : v) as
container underneath. After A }KAN ae
a few hours in the sun,
you will have some clean, GA Fn gOS
drinkable water.

BEAR SAYS
Finding clean, safe water should
always be your top priority.
You can survive three weeks
without eating, but only three
days without water, so
find it fast.
earth or rocks to weigh
down the plastic sheet

Solar still
This system extracts
water from the soil and
any plants growing in or
placed in a hole. Moisture
evaporates, rises, and
then condenses on the
underside of the plastic
barrier above, which then
drips into a collection
container below.
collection
container
 % Bear
Grylls

Water from cuttings padded stick

Collect as many green
leaves and branches as
can fit in a plastic bag green
without touching the sides. cuttings
Prop up the centre to form
a tent. Arrange the bag
ona slight slope so the
condensation will run down
to a collection point.

rocks to keep the

vegetation elevated

prop up or suspend
the tepsct the bag Ground transpiration
This arrangement works on
grass or low the same principle as the
shrub
transpiration bag opposite,
but with plants that
grow close to the ground.
Consider scaling up froma
plastic bag by using the fly
collection channel of a tent.

Cacti
prickly pear
Cacti are a valuable survival
resource in many deserts. The
fruits of the prickly pear and
some other species are edible.
Many cacti contain huge
amounts of water in their flesh
that can be gathered in solar
stills or transpiration bags.
saguaro
Cacti are protected in some
areas and should only be used
in an emergency.
WATER PURIFICATION
In the wild, even water that looks pure and pristine may not be. Luckily,
having clean drinking water is relatively simple when you have the right
equipment and knowledge.

boiling

condensation vessel

Distil
This system is trickier than simple boiling,
Boil but it makes drinkable water from sources
a heavy with sediment. It can also be used to
This kills most types of disease-
distill seawater or urine.
causing organisms. Boil the water
for at least one minute, then let it
cool down.

Chemical Solar
lodine, potassium permanganate, and Pour suspect water into clear plastic
chlorine can be used to treat water. They bottles and expose them to direct
take time to work, and be prepared for a sunlight for at least six hours (or for
slightly odd taste. two days in very cloudy conditions).
 % Bear
Grylls
NYS
ES
\

Filters
Thorough water
filtration removes water
particles and many
gravel
microorganisms that
cause disease, but
it’s still a good idea
to boil the water charcoal

BEAR SAYS
before drinking it.

If you don’t have a filter, you can

make one usinga plastic bottle,
gravel, sand, and charcoal. The
charcoal helps to filter out
Bottle filter tiny impurities in
virus and This filter bottle works the water.
bacteria with a cartridge that
filter needs to be replaced
eae after every 160 refills,
sal or 216 gallons of water.
Ree Simply squeeze to
elvan produce a flow of water.

UV light
emitter
pump
handle

Pump filter
There are many pump Ultraviolet
filtration systems that This battery-driven device
activated
hikers can use. Each carbon uses UV light to sterilize 975 ml
stroke of the pump (33 oz) of water in 90 seconds.
draws water through The water must be clear for the
the filter and purifies It. sterilization to work well.
FOOD FROM PLANTS
So you’re stuck in the wilderness, and you’ve got plenty of
safe drinking water. Your next priorities will probably be food
and shelter. Plants can provide great nutrition if you know
what’s safe to eat.

Edibility test A
1 Crush and smell the plant sample.
Reject it if you sense strong, acid, or
BEAR SAYS
Tap along a piece of bamboo
almond odours.
and listen to the noise it makes.
Sections that have water inside
will make a denser sound.
2 Crush and rub the sample against the
inside of your elbow. Wait 15 minutes
and discard if there is any irritation.

3 Hold a small amount against your lips. Split

Reject if there is any irritation. Separate the plant into its basic
components and test separately.

4 Place a small amount on the tongue.

If there is any bad taste or irritation,
throw it away.

5 Chew a small amount for several

minutes, but do not swallow. If there is
any irritation, spit it out.

6 If the plant part passes all these

tests, eat a small amount and wait
several hours for any adverse reaction.
Plants to avoid plants with
Some plants should be seed pods
avoided altogether. Look
for these indicators and
leave them alone.

plants with :
umbrella-shaped milky sap
flower clusters

plants with
shiny leaves

‘\ mushroom and
toadstools -
unless you are
absolutely sure it
is a safe species

Plants to eat?
Most foods eaten by primates and birds are safe
for us to eat, too. But this is not a guarantee
— always use the edibility test opposite. Many
berries are safe to eat, but only take a bite if you
are certain they are edible, such as blackberries.

a
HUNTING SMALL ANIMALS
In a survival situation, a meal of meat goes a lot further than
plants alone. While large animals can be difficult and dangerous
to hunt, their smaller relatives are easier to get onto your plate.

throwing stick
Hand weapons
These are some tools
traditionally used to catch
small animals.
weighted club

slingshot

rodent skewer
 % Bear
Grylls

use this hand to

grab the frog Catch a frog
Hold one hand about
50 cm (1.5 ft) in front
of the frog and slowly
wriggle your fingers.
This will grab the frog’s
keep this attention. Grasp the frog
hand in from behind with your
positon other hand.

stout stick

Catch alizard
Gently wave a noose of tight
wire in front of the lizard.
Gradually bring the noose closer
and closer, then lasso the lizard.

Catch a snake
All snakes can beeaten. To
catch a snake, first stun it
with a rock or stick. Pin its
head down with a forked
stick, and kill it with a knife,
rock, or another stick. Cut the
head off and bury it if there is
any chance that it might bea
venomous species.
Snares Simple loop snare
These traps are used to catch HN Make a snare about
some animals, often using wire / + jf {Ny | q the size of your fist for
or cord. — JUTA it - small animals, such as
Of | IM | rabbits. Set up about
—— ae Zl IN Wie «(15 snares for each
s animal you hope
to catch.

wWae. W7>
wire snare supporting
twigs

Spring snare trigger

Game running through a sapling
spring snare releases the
trigger bar and is flung off
the ground. It’s useful for upright
catching rabbits, foxes, and
similar animals.

close up of
snare

Squirrel pole
A squirrel pole is a long
pole placed against a
tree. Place several wire
nooses along the top and
sides of the pole so that
a squirrel trying to go
up or down the pole will
have to pass through
one or more.
 A Bear
Grylls

springy sapling
above Trapeze spring snare @
This trap has two separate A
snares built into one
mechanism. This will | BEAR SAYS
double your chances, or
allow you to cover more In my experience it is
area ona game trail. always best to set as many
traps as possible so that you
have a greater chance of
es catching a meal.

heavy log

Figure-4 deadfall trap

This simple trap can be made
to any size. A horizontal bait
bar is balanced at right angles
to an upright with a lock bar,
which supports a rock or other
heavy weight.

Deadfall trap
It’s easy to build a deadfall trap
heavy log large enough to kill a pig or
deer. Make sure everyone in the
party knows exactly where such
a trap has been set as it could
retaining
bar trip line also harm a person.
+
EDIBLE INVERTEBRATES
Insects, molluscs, and arachnids can be found in large quantities
and they are highly nutritious. If survival is at stake, put your taste
buds aside and add some of these critters to the menu.

Worms
There are few better sources of protein
than worms. Drop them in drinkable
water after collection and they will
naturally wash themselves out. If you
prefer, dry and grind the worms and
add them to soup.

Snails
Starve snails for a few days so they can
expel any poisonous plants they have
eaten. Boil them for three minutes then
drain, rinse in cold water, and remove
from their shells. Avoid species with
brightly coloured shells.

Spiders
Don’t overlook spiders as a source of
protein. Eat the bodies and leave the
heads, which may contain poison. If
you catch a tarantula, try frying it —
they are a delicacy in parts
of Southeast Asia.

Slugs
Some slugs are very large — three or
four will constitute a good meal. They
can be eaten raw, but are much more
appetizing cooked. Prepare and cook
them exactly the same way as snails.
 A Bear
Grylls

Grubs
Insect larvae, also known as grubs, are prime
wilderness food. They favour cool, damp
places, so look in rotten logs, under the bark
of dead trees, under rocks, and in the ground.
Grubs are safe to eat raw.

Grasshoppers
These insects can be a great source of food in
some places. Knock them from the air with a piece
of clothing or a leafy branch. Remove the wings,
antennae, and legs before eating them. It is best to
roast them to kill off any parasites.

Termites
These insects exist in enormous
numbers in the warmer parts
of the world and are easily
collected from their nests.
Aquatic insects Remove the wings from larger
Nearly all water-based insects can be eaten in species before eating. They
both adult and larval form. Use clothing as a net can be cooked, but are more
and trawl freshwater rivers or ponds. nutritious eaten raw.
EMERGENCY SHELTERS
SOHOSSSHSHSSHSHSHSHSSHSHSHSSHSSSHSSSSHSSHSSSHSSSESSEHSHSSSSSSESESESESESSESEHEEEEE

Hot or cold, wet or dry, a good shelter is vital for your safety. Each
landscape requires different types of shelter. Use the natural
resources at hand depending on your need.

Desert shelter
Dig a hollow and cover with two tarpaulins one
above the other.

entrance

ass
(AZ? SN All-natural shelter
PONE. ea : , A leafy bed, brush-covered
reek lean-to, and a fire can keep
you warm and dry.

logs to keep the

Bough bed boughs in place
A bough bed is made from
evergreen branches arranged in
overlapping rows. It will provide
insulation, comfort, and will
keep you above any rain that is
running along the ground.
 check that the broken part is
Fallen tree shelter strong enough to last the night
A fallen tree can make a
quick shelter. Improve it by
removing branches on the
underside and slinging a —
tarpaulin on top.

tie the tops

together Sapling shelter
If you come across a group of saplings,
clear the ground between them, strip
their branches, and tie their tops
together. Cover with material or weave
branches between them.

BEAR SAYS
In harsh weather or desperate
situations, shelters such as
these can save your life!

hold up the
“roof” with weigh down
extra branches the covering

Tree pit snow shelter

In forests where heavy snow
has fallen, you will often
find deep hollows under the
branches of evergreen trees.
Dig out some extra room if
needed, and lay branches
on the ground.

Leabharlanna PoibliC mm
 Discover more amazing books in
the Bear Grylls series:
Perfect for young adventurers, the
Survival Skills series accompanies an
exciting range of colouring and activity
books. Curious kids can also learn
tips and tricks for almost any extreme
situation in Survival Camp, and explore
Earth in Extreme Planet.

Conceived by Weldon Owen in partnership

with Bear Grylls Ventures

Produced by Weldon Owen Ltd

Suite 3.08 The Plaza, 535 King’s Road,
London SW10 OSZ, UK

Copyright © 2017 Weldon Owen Publishing

WELDON OWEN LTD

Publisher Donna Gregory
Designer Shahid Mahmood
Editorial Claire Philip, Sophia Podini
Illustrators Peter Bull Studios (original illustrations),
Bernard Chau (colour)

Printed in Malaysia
10987654321
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored ina retrieval system
or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without the prior
written permission of the publisher.

Disclaimer
Weldon Owen and Bear Grylls take pride in doing our best to get the facts right in putting together
the information in this book, but occasionally something slips past our beady eyes. Therefore we
make no warranties about the accuracy or completeness of the information in the book and to the
maximum extent permitted, we disclaim all liability. Wherever possible, we will endeavour to correct
any errors of fact at reprint.

Kids — if you want to try any of the activities in this book, please ask your parents first! Parents — all
outdoor activities carry some degree of risk and we recommend that anyone participating in these
activities be aware of the risks involved and seek professional instruction and guidance. None of the
health/medical information in this book is intended as a substitute for professional medical advice;
always seek the advice of a qualified practitioner.

A WELDON OWEN PRODUCTION.

PART OF THE BONNIER PUBLISHING GROUP.
an Bear
Grylls
REL DTT

Ta SL |
EMERGENCIES
Embark on an amazing adventure with
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water safely, and build a shelter to keep you dry
and warm at night
a
Includes step-by-step instructions and tips from Bear