ULTIMATE SURVIVAL

HANDBOOK ee

CAMPING © NAPS & NAVIGATION

KNOTS © DANGERS & EMERGENCIES
 7 Bear
Grylls

SURVIVAL SKILLS
HANDBOOK
VOLUME 1
CAMPING

MAPS & NAVIGATION

KNOTS

DANGERS & EMERGENCIES

Leabharlanna Poils!! Chathair Baile Atha Cliath
Dublin City Public Libraries
CONTENTS
@CCGCCHSOHSSeSReeeSeSSeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeoeeeoeeoe
eeaeeeoeeeeoeeeee

Introduction 4
|
CAMPING MAPS AND NAVIGATION
Going camping 8 Starting your adventure 54
Tents 10 Maps 56
Other types of shelter 15 Magnetic Earth 72
Sleeping softly 21 Compasses 74
Sleeping bags 22 GPS 86
Knives 24 Other ways to navigate 88
Toilets and showers 28
Food caches 30
Nutrition 32
Food for the outdoors 34
Fire making 36
Fire starting 38
Cooking with fire 44
Camping stoves 49
KNOTS DANGERS AND
Discover knots EMERGENCIES
Overhand loop Stay safe in the wild
Figure of eight loop Dangerous animals
Threaded figure of eight Dangerous plants
Jury Mast knot Quicksand
Angler’s loop Sourcing water
Bottle sling Water from plants
Anchor bend Water purification
Double fisherman’s knot Food from plants
Prusik hitch Hunting small animals
Clove hitches Edible invertebrates
Italian hitch Emergency shelters
Pile hitch
Highwayman’s hitch Index
Timber hitch Credits
Rolling hitch
Trucker’s hitch
Square lashing
Diagonal lashing
Shear lashing
Tripod lashing
Eye splice
Short splice
Impossible knot
Ring drop
Not a knot
 INTRODUCTION
We live on the most amazing planet, and should seize

every chance we get to explore it. From the hottest

desert to the highest mountain, | have been on lots of
exciting adventures around the world, and seen some
phenomenal parts of our planet. When you’re out exploring,
it’s important to be prepared and to stay safe in the wild.
Make sure you know about the area you are planning to go
to beforehand — what is the weather like? What dangers
are you likely to face? Once you know as much as you can,
you will need to decide what equipment to take. It is very
important to plan for emergency situations. When you’re
out in the wild, good preparation can be the difference
between life and death. It is also vital that you are
respectful of the world around us, and leave everything just
‘as you found it. Exploring the world is a great privilege, and
it is our responsibility to take care of our beautiful planet
-S$O we Can continue adventuring for many years to come.

il
inna
 CAMPING
Camping in the great outdoors can be one of the
most rewarding experiences — as long as you are
fully prepared for a night under the stars. Once
you know how to build a campfire, safely store
food, and build your shelter you can embark on

ly
great adventures!

a
 A Bear
Grylls

IN THIS SECTION:
Going camping 8
Tents 10
Other types of shelter 15
Sleeping softly 21
Sleeping bags 22
Knives 24
Toilets and showers 28
Food caches 30
Nutrition 32
Food for the outdoors 34
Fire making 36
Fire starting 38
Cooking with fire 44
Camping stoves A9
GOING CAMPING!
Camping with friends and family can be a mini-adventure! A good
campsite will allow you to enjoy your surroundings and should be
kind to the environmentYou . should also be able to relax there
safely. Take the time to fully prepare for your trip and you'll make
great memories in the outdoors.

Making camp
Camp at existing campsites when possible, and
remember that good campsites are found, not made.

take note of the

wind direction
aes

pitch your tent on clear, level ground

a safe distance from any fires

place a toilet 150 m

from water

Camping is a great way to enjoy

the outdoors and experience
nature at its best!
 A Bear
Grylls

Places to avoid
Some locations are not good for
camping — stay away at all costs!

meee un IO
aan

Flood risk Under a tree

Washouts, gullies, and floodplains can Even healthy-looking branches may drop
be deadly when it rains. without warning.

Cliff base Avalanche risk

Don’t camp below a cliff or a steep rocky Stay away from steep slopes during or
slope in case loose rocks fall. after heavy snowfall.
TENTS
A tent is your home away from
home while camping. It shelters you
from wind, rain, cold temperatures,
and blazing Sun. There are lots of
different types to choose from.

dome with fly

dome without fly

Clips, sleeves, and poles

pole folded pole clip

pole
sleeve

pole extended
|
 A Bear
Grylls

geodesic

two-hoop

self-erecting
 Pegs
peg puller Very few tents will stay up by themselves, and, even
then, only in good weather. They need guy ropes
(ropes under tension) and secure attachments to
the ground. That’s where pegs come in.

aluminium
plastic
wooden’ mallet and
stake extractor

plastic twist

glow-in-the-dark
aluminium
sand

plastic
sand

ancient
Roman

standard
 Rk
rylls

Placing pegs
It is important to
make sure your tent
is stable and stays
put so that you have
proper shelter.

Mountain favourite
A buried sleeping bag
case filled with snow
makes a good anchor.

Standard Super stable Delta

The rope is at 90° to When stability is key, use These strong pegs keep
the peg. two pegs for extra security. avery secure hold.

Back-up Rocks Ie
Use a heavy rock to Piles oftocks can beused =teut pee can pe placed
secure a peg if it won't to anchor
your lines. iO. Jone othe lee:
go far into the ground.

Desert sand Buried in ice Parachute

A peg buried in sand A peg can be frozen in ice Place heavy objects ina
makes a good anchor. to secure its hold. parachute anchor, then bury.
What to do if your tent leaks
If you expect wet weather or a downpour
looms, these simple tips can save the day.

trench next to
tent collects
rainfall
Water trench
A bit of digging
can help avoid a ;
flood in your tent. water

Inside drip string

This short-term fix
allows leaking water to
drip into a bowl rather
than your sleeping bag.

string
Outside string
This diverts water from reaching the
stone
anchor point of your tent or tarp.

Duct tape Hole patch Seam sealer

Apply to a hole or Patch kits will securely Use a sealer for leaks
split seam. seala leaking hole. along the seam.
 A Bear
Grylls

OTHER TYPES OF SHELTER

From tarpaulin to igloos,
The art of tarp
there are many other types
These are some ways tarpaulin
of shelter that could bea can be made into a shelter.
better option than a tent.

a tied-off rock will work

as a corner anchor

BEAR SAYS
A tensioner will maintain
tension in a guy rope. They are
simple yet important pieces
of kit - |never go camping
without them!

Plastic line Timber line Stick anchor

A small tug on this A piece of timber with two This simple method will
tensioner will tighten holes will also hold guy save wear on your tarp
the guy ropes. ropes In place. corner grommets.
 bivouac bags, also known as
“bivvy” bags, are cheaper and
lighter alternatives to tents

camping
hammock

Mongolian

American Indian
Great Plains
teepee
 A Bear.
Grylls

Snow cave
With experience and a snow shovel, you
eee and a friend can build a comfortable
oe Sy snow cave in a couple of hours.
oo F < RM They can be a life-saver, but you
have to be careful of carbon
monoxide gas poisoning.

ventilation hole

skis or other
equipment
can alert your
position to
others

This Inuit invention is

~ an option for shelter in
cold conditions.
How to make an igloo

1 Mark a circle in the snow

about 2 m across.

2 Tramp down the snow

inside the circle until you
have a solid surface.

3 Using a snow saw, cut blocks

of hard, compacted snow. Hard
snow can usually be found 5 Cut a ramp in the snow
below soft snow. blocks halfway around
the circle.

4 Arrange your first blocks

in acircle.
 A Bear
Grylls

6 Build the igloo by adding

blocks around the spiral ramp.

7 Dig an entrance 8 Build an entrance roof

Bp coat the igloo. from two slabs of snow.
How to make a quinzee
A quinzee is a large pile of snow 1 Put backpacks and
that has been hollowed out. any other bulky gear
together.
2 Pile up a good-sized
amount of snow over ‘F¥

3 Pack down
the snow and
wait a couple of
hours while it
“sinters” (this is
when the snow
crystals bind to
each other). eet

/ A Stick even-lengthed
sticks all around the
snow pile. 5 Excavate the snow.
2 The other ends of the
Neg peat > —"__ sticks will guide you
SS and keep you from
digging through.

air hole

6 Insulate the base with tarps or

sleeping mats, and make yourself
at home.
 A Bear
Grylls

SLEEPING SOFTLY
SCeeseseeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeseeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees

A camping mattress makes sleeping more

comfortable, and also keeps you warmer than
if you were to sleep directly on the ground.

foam mat

foam mat with

elastic straps

self-inflating
open cell foam

double air mattress

single air mattress

with air pillow

electric pump

foot pump
(uses bellows)
SLEEPING BAGS
A good-quality sleeping bag
is essential for a good night’s
sleep in the outdoors.

rectangular

mummy sleeping
bag with hood

double
sleeping bag
 A Bear
Grylls

stuff bag

compression sack

Sleeping bag fillings

A sleeping bag is made up of a lining and
an outer shell. In between the two are
different types of filling. The way in which
the filling is stitched together affects how
warm yen piay inside it. Down bags are eohn throusncdter
often built with pockets called baffles that shell is stitched together
stop the down from bunching.

offset quilt - staggered shingles - layered

double layers like roof tiles

ae
Re box-shaped baffle
lant box
slant box baffl
baftle

or trapezoidal baffle
ane vba beams
KNIVES
A good sharp knife is a camping essential but should only be used by
an adult with caution and care.

Leatherman
multi-tool

knife with leather sheath

parang

Survival knife
sharpening
stone
sheath

wire saw

fishing line, co
handle cap hooks, and (CFS
compass sinkers

matches and
striker
hollow handle blade
 A Bear
Grylls

Keg)

folding knife
1} @
y
SS
<S-

Fe 7

Parts of a hunting knife

blade

the assembled knife

Knife sharpening
To sharpen a knife, the blade is often
passed over a hard, rough surface.

shaving stroke ~ draw

the blade towards you

cireuler stroke ~ the

best way to sharpen
a large knife blade

figure eight stroke - draw

the blade back and forth

\
xX

Chop Whittle Carve

Only large blades should Use a small knife To carve, make shallow
be used for chopping. for fine carving. cuts along the grain.
 A Bear
Grylls

honing oil

honing stone
sharpening tool

A
BEAR SAYS
Knives are very useful pieces of —
sharpening steel equipment and they require a
lot of special care.

10 degrees 20 degrees 30 degrees

For light duty and fine A good angle for everyday A somewhat blunt yet
_ work such as filleting and use. To approximate it, long-lasting edge for
_ shaving. The edge will imagine half of 90 degrees, heavy-duty work, such as
- blunt fairly quickly. then half of 45 degrees. chopping wood.
TOILETS AND SHOWERS
For a healthy environment and a healthy you, make sure you maintain
hygiene by washing and showering. Depending on your needs, there
are different types of toilet that can be built outdoors.

Cat hole
For one-time, personal use.

Long-stay latrine
wicker privacy screen

urinal

plastic or
bark funnel

Latrine for a
large group
 A Bear
Grylls

Keeping clean

antibacterial
wipes

hand wash

Using a solar shower S

47
\WN
1 Fill the shower bag with YY
water and lay it in the
sun. On acoolor
overcast day,
do this in the
morning so that
there is warm water
in the afternoon.

2 Hang the bag from a tree.

The bag will be heavy, so
pick a branch that is strong
and healthy.

3 Check that the

water is ata safe
temperature before
starting your shower.

you could hang a

curtain for privacy
FOOD CACHES
You don’t want to share your precious food supplies with the local
wildlife. In some places hungry bears may look for a meal.

Bear caches

Traditional cache
These mini log cabins are raised up
high off the ground. They are still used
in North American woods

removable ladder

Camping ground cache

These permanent bear-proof cabinets
are acommon sight in camping
grounds where bears might visit.

Bear can
These tough canisters can
hold about a week’s worth of
food for the average hiker.
 A Bear
Grylls

Setting up a throwline bear cache

secure
your food
bag to
the line

1 Find two trees about 4.5 m apart. 2 Tie the rope to the tree trunk then
Throw the rope up and over a branch. throw the rope over a branch on the
second tree.

3 Then, hoist it up A Tie the other end of

until it’s at least 3.5 m the line to the trunk of
above the ground. the second tree. Your
food is now safe.

Marino Bran ch
Brainse Marino
lel: 8336Vlg
29
NUTRITION
Eating well is the key to good health. This is especially true if you are
getting active outdoors. Make sure you get a balanced intake of water,
various food groups, vitamins, and minerals.

Water
The most vital substance in our
bodies is water. It makes up more than
half of a person’s bodyweight, and fulfils
such important roles that even a few
days without it can be fatal.

Micronutrients
Micronutrients are essential
vitamins and minerals that are
needed in very small quantities
for different body functions.
Examples include salt and the
vitamins and minerals found
in leafy vegetables, fruit, and
vitamin supplements.
 Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the body’s prime
energy source. They are found in
- bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, fruit,
and sweets.

Fats
Fats are essential for processing
some vitamins, promoting healthy
cell function, and are a rich source
of energy.

Protein
Protein builds up, maintains, and
replaces body tissues. It is essential
for muscle growth and a healthy -
immune system.

Healthy eating
This is a graphic guide to a healthy meal. You
should have more fruit and vegetables than fats and sweets
(eat sparingly)
any other food group. Cut down on big portion
sizes, extra fats, and foods that are high in
sugar and salt.
milk, yogurt,
meat, poultry, fish,
nd cheese
and nuts

vegetables

bread, cereal, rice, and pasta

(include with most meals)
FOOD FOR THE OUTDOORS
A healthy diet is essential when you are enjoying the outdoors. When
planning a trip, choose food that is healthy, tasty, lightweight, and
doesn’t need to be kept cold.

Hiking fuel
If you’re on a big hike, your biscuits
body will need a lot more trail mix - nuts, dried
fruit, sultanas, raisins,
food than normal. Graze
Pay and seeds
on these easily digested,
energy-rich foods to keep
you going for hours.

chocolate

crackers
cereal bar

sweets

cereal

porridge
dered
Breakfast long-life milk _ asitenee

flatbread
 A Bear
Grylls

Lunch bread cheese

powdered fruit
crackers drink

sardines |

fruitcake
salad and
vegetables

Dinner

pasta

cous-cous

herbs and
spices

tomato paste
salami
vegetables

scone or muffin ham ah

) Lp
Dessert ae
chocolate

hot
chocolate

toasted
apple or apricot
Pe i marshmallow
crumble with custard
FIRE MAKING
Humans have been making and cooking on campfires for a few
hundred thousand years. Making fire is still an important skill to
so that you can keep warm and cook when camping.

Fire triangle
There are three elements that must be
present for a fire to exist: oxygen, fuel,
and heat. You’ll need them in the right
combination to get your fire started.
Removing one or more of these
elements will put out the fire.

Tinder
Tinder is a fine flammable material
that easily catches a spark.

Bark Moss Grass

Look for dry inner bark Dead, dry moss makes an Break down stalks of dry
from dead logs. excellent fire starter. grass Into fine fibres.

Fungus
The inner flesh from Cotton wool and Leaves
bracket fungus is petroleum jelly Dry dead leaves are often
flammable. A highly flammable mix. easy to find.
 A Bear
Grylls

main fuel

kindling
tinder
large fuel
small fuel

Build it up
A good fire is built up gradually. Start with tinder, then once the tinder has
begun to burn, add kindling — dry twigs and sticks no thicker than your little
finger. As coals are created, slowly add larger pieces of fuel.

Starting structures

lean-to

log cabin A-frame

FIRE STARTING
Starting fires has been a straightforward
task ever since the invention of matches
and lighters. However, there are other ways
to create a spark if you don’t have these
tools available.

lighter
Heat sources

focused sunlight will

ignite tinder

magnifying
glass
 A Bear
Grylls

soft-drink can

chocolate

ferrocerium

Parabolic can
Polish the base of a can with chocolate Flint and steel
or toothpaste until it is mirror smooth The “flint” component of a flint and
and highly reflective (this may take steel fire-starting kit is actually
several hours). made of a metal alloy called
ferrocerium. When struck with
Battery method : steel, it gives out sparks.

steel wool

steel wool
nine-volt

Electric spark
When steel wool is brushed against the contacts of a
battery, it will glow brightly and begin to burn. A nine-
volt battery is most convenient for this method, but any
battery will work, including one from a mobile phone.
Magnesium fire block
These fire-starting kits consist of a
steel striker and a block of magnesium steel
striker
with a ferrocerium rod fixed down one
side. They are small and light, and are
still effective in damp conditions.

ferrocerium rod

1To begin, use a knife blade to

scrape a small pile of shavings
from the magnesium block. The
shavings are light, so protect the
pile from the breeze.

2 Collect the shavings

and gather themina
little nest of dry tinder.

3 Run the ferrocerium rod along

the steel striker or a knife blade.
The resulting sparks will catch in
the magnesium shavings and burn
a very intense, white-hot flame
for a few seconds — long enough
to get your tinder burning.
 A Bear
Grylls

Hand drill
A hand drill consists of a softwood
drill and fireboard. Run your hands
Fire piston
down the drill as you spin it, to
This ancient device is from Southeast
maintain pressure and build friction.
Asia and the Pacific. Quickly pushing the
piston into the cylinder causes a spark to
be ignited in the tinder.

cylinder tinder is
placed at
the end of
the piston

tinder temperature
315°C

Fire plough
Cut a straight groove along a softwood base.
Plough the tip of a hardwood rod back and
forth along this groove. As friction builds up,
small wood fibres will become detached from
the groove. Eventually the detached
fibres will start smoldering and
form a “coal”. Use this to
ignite your tinder.
Bow drill
The bow drillis slightly more complicated
than other friction fire-starting methods, but
once mastered, it is extremely effective —
even when temperatures are cool or weather
conditions are humid.

spindle

- Sa bow

Ve
ma NS

cord or leather thong

fireboard

tinder

notch cut in baseboard

to hold tinder
 A Bear
Grylls

Blowing tinder
The end result of many fire-starting
methods is not a flame but a
precious glowing ember. To really
get the fire started, quickly gather
the ember into a bundle of tinder
and blow gently. This adds oxygen
and raises the temperature enough
for the materialto burn.

Carrying fire
It can be easier to carry embers rather than
to start a fire without matches or a lighter.
To do this, punch a few holes in acan and
attach a string or wire for a handle. Then
place the embers between two layers
of dry moss. Check the embers from
time to time, and blow on them if they are
starting to fade. Well cared for, the embers
should last several days.
COOKING WITH FIRE
As well as providing warmth and a place to gather, the main
purpose of a campfire is to cook your food.

Stable fireplace
, Use three stones to
~ support the pot.

ape

Natural skewers
Fish and meat can be grilled
on sticks over the fire.

Handy branches
Using a support branch to
control height, a forked branch
can hold several utensils.

Wind assisted
The open side of a three-
sided fireplace should face
into the wind.
 4 Bear
Grylls

Basic construction
Put two logs parallel
to the wind to form a
simple fireplace.

An easy spit
Sharpened branches
driven into the ground
offer a sturdy spit.

Uneven surface
Use the slope of the
ground and some large
rocks to help support your
utensils over the fire.

Longer term
If you are staying in
one place for a while,
dig a hole for a more
permanent fireplace.
 Star fire
Push in the logs as they burn to
create a long-lasting cooking spot.

Crane
This arrangement will keep your
cooking pot off the fire, and keep it
from getting smothered.

Adjustable crane
This crane allows
you to move your
pot up and down so
that you can control
the temperature it is
exposed to.

Stone griddle
A slab of stone will take a
long time to heat, but will
stay hot for a long time. Usea
dry, solid rock.
 A Bear
Grylls

Bamboo cooking
pot
Green bamboo is very
fire resistant and
makes an excellent
pot for boiling and
simmering.

Bamboo steamer
food goes here
Punch a few holes in each of
the two walls that divide a
length of bamboo into three
sections. Put water in one end
and food in the other and you
water ken 3 have a steamer.

Breakfast in a bag
Line the bottom of a damp paper bag with
bacon, then crack an egg on top. Place the bag
on some hot coals and ashes to cook.

Foil oven
Wrap a whole meal in tinfoil and put it
into the coals for a slow roast. By using
this method exclusively, you can save
on the weight of cooking pots and pans.
Hangi
The ee is a traditional New Zealand Maori method of cooking large communal
meals.To make a hangi, first dig a pit in the ground. Then build a pyre of wood beams
over the pit to carry the hangi stones. Set the pyre ablaze to super-heat the stones.
Once they have dropped into the pit, add the food in wire baskets, cover in damp
sacks and soil, and leave to cook for two to three hours.

soil ae m)\.

/ ase).

hot rocks

Mud baking

1 Gut a fish and lay it on a bed of non- 2 Fold the leaves over the fish,
poisonous green leaves. There is no ensuring that it is completely covered.
need to remove the scales. Bind the package with twine.

3 Pack mud all around the package. Use 4 Bury the package in hot coals.
clay if it is available, or use mud that has A medium-sized fish should
a clay-like texture. Check for holes. take about 20 minutes to cook.
 A Bear
Grylls

CAMPING STOVES
Cooking meals on an open fire has its downsides. Things get
sooty, and it can be hard to find fuel. Often, a camping stove is
the best way to cook outdoors.

Fuel stoves

butane/propane cartridge
and burner attachment

single burner with

butane canister
 Alcohol burner set

ready to cook

Primus paraffin stove

Invented in 1892, the Primus pressurized US Army gasoline-burning stove
paraffin burner was the original camping These stoves were standard US Army
and expedition stove. issue from 1951 until 1987.
 A Grylls
Bear

Cooking without gas

Parabolic solar cooker

Solar cookers are the ultimate in
environmentally friendly cooking.
Parabolic cookers can reach high
temperatures very quickly and
are good for bringing liquids to
a boil.

Twig stove
This low-impact
twig burner can be
easily made froma
steel can and wire
using basic tools.

Solar box oven

This design makes use of
reflective panels and a sealed
light-absorbent chamber.
Temperatures inside can
reach 148°C.
 MAPS AND
NAVIGATION
GGQOGHKHKHSSHKRHKHSHSeOHKSHHSHSSSSSSHSSHBOHGOHKeGHSHSCHHOeBSSOSEHSEeSHEEEE

Learning essential skills such as map reading

and navigation will allow you to truly experience
the world around you. Although it requires
practice and practical application, there is
nothing like the sense of achievement you will
feel upon successfully finding your way to your
planned destination!
 4 Bear
Grylls

IN THIS SECTION:
Starting your adventure 54
Maps 56
Magnetic Earth 72
Compasses 74
GPS 86
Other ways to navigate 88
STARTING YOUR ADVENTURE |
The world is full of exciting places to explore. In order to stay safe
on your travels you will need to learn the art of navigation and map |
reading, like the adventurers of the past. As long as you have a map
and compass, and know how to use them, you need never get lost.
Remember, practice makes perfect!

Equipment
If you venture into the wild, make sure you have all the equipment you need so that you
can get from one place to another as quickly and easily as possible. The type of equip-
ment and the amount you need depends upon where you are going and for how long.
Here are some of the basics you will need when going walking.

thermal hat or sun hat,

depending on the weather
waterproof jacket in
case of rain

layers of clothing so you can

add more if it is cold, or take
rucksack some off if you are too warm ]

warm gloves

sensible trousers, such

as walking trousers

sensible footwear
such as walking boots
and thick socks
 A Bear
Grylls

Make sure you carry these essentials

in your rucksack or day bag.

first-aid kit

food and bottle of water mobile phone

camera
sunscreen and insect
repellant

BEAR SAYS
Make sure someone knows your
route and estimated arrival
emergency time before you set off so they
contact details can raise the alarm if you don’t
turn up when expected.
MAPS
SOHKSSHHSHHSHHHSHSHSHHHSHSHSHSHHHSSHSHSSTHHHHSSHSSHHHSHHSSEHSSHSHSHSHESHSHHHHE

Map care
As you walk, you will need to look at your
map quite often to check you are on the right
track. Maps need to be folded carefully to
keep them in good condition so that they
stay useful.

A map case with a neck cord may be a good

idea, while some outdoor clothing has a
specially designed large map pocket — if
you are keeping the map in a bag, make sure
it is easily accessible when you are out.
Laminated maps can be useful if you are
likely to be outside in wet or windy weather
conditions. A spare may also be essential if
you are somewhere remote.

How to fold a map

1 Although it sounds easy, folding a map can be tricky. With your map spread
open, look at the creases — they should show the correct places to fold.
 ae
; <4
i

2 Fold the map in half by bringing the

top edge to meet the bottom edge.

make sure the cover

is out to one side
3 Fold the map inwards, as though
itis an accordion.

4 Fold the map

over so that the
cover is on top.
Some maps have
a third section
that needs to be
tucked in.
How to measure distance
Map measurers allow you to find the distances
between two points on a map. Route planning is an
important part of navigation, and knowing how far you
need to travel will help you work out your finish time —
and if you’ll arrive before dark!

needle
Analogue map reader
This tool uses a needle and
dial printed with different map
scales to show distance in
miles or kilometres.

Using your compass

As well as taking bearings
and helping you find north,
your orienteering compass
can help you find distances,
using the measurements on
the base plate.
 A Bear)
a Grylls

Digital map reader

With digital map reader wheels,
the user sets the unit, such as
kilometres, and the map scale. They
then run the tip of the reader along
the route to find the distance.

CER
BEAR SAYS
Measuring distance accurately
will help you plan your <
hike. Take the time to take
measurements before you.
set off.

Using a piece of string

If you are without a device, you can place a piece of
string along your route, and then along the distance
scale on the map.

aX
Fae RE 5 fp
Types of landscape
As you walk around the countryside you will notice that there are many
different types of landscape. Some are far easier to travel along than
others. These are some of the most common types.

Gentle slope
This slope decreases steadily in height
and makes for an easy climb.

Steep slope
Steep slopes are hard to trek up, due to the
sharp angle of the land.
 A Bear
. Grylls.

in
A

Concave slope
This kind of slope is steep at the top but less
so at the bottom, a little like the curve inside

BEAR SAYS
a bowl.

Make sure you avoid steep

climbs! A knowledge of contour |
lines will help you pick the best
paths while navigating.

Convex slope
A rounded slope that goes
from less steep to steep.
Cliff
A cliff is a very steep drop in the
landscape, often at coasts.

- fi}a
Ti i i Wl
aNKUp
Ve i)
Wi
Hl
I)
i
4)
: Mi NA

Ys
iN
i KN
MN Wh i
a

Gullies and spurs

Gullies are steep ravines found close to the
seashore, while spurs are the ridges of land that
slope down from the edge of a hill.
 % Bear
i Grylls

Pia merreer rier eg elt

Saddle

BEAR SAYS
The area between two connecting hills or
mountain peaks is called a saddle.

A landscape is made up of
different geographic features
that can be used make
navigation much easier.

Valley
A valley is a low area of land found between
hills. Rivers are often found in valleys.
Symbols
Maps use symbols, lines, and colours to describe
what is on the land and make the map clearer.

Learn the pictures AN Campsite

If you look closely at amap ec:
you can see it is covered in
symbols. It would be almost Motorway
impossible to write everything
out in words on a map — there
just isn’t enough space. A key
(or legend) explains what these Railway
symbols mean. The symbols
could be pictures, words, or
abbreviations. Railway station

A symbol for Mars setae

Ordnance Survey is the national
mapping agency for Great
Britain and is one of the world’s Place of worship
largest producers of maps. The
symbols used on these maps are
easily recognizable and in May
2016 they held a competition to Post office
design a symbol for Mars as it
has been recently mapped.
 % Bear
Grylls

Scales
Maps are made to scale so that the distance between
landmarks and places in real life is shown accurately on
paper. It is very important that the map is correct, so that
features are where the map reader expects. Scale also helps
us to work out distances. Most maps have a scale written on
them (e.g. 1:50,000). This means that one centimetre on the
map represents 50,000 cm on the ground.

Small scale
The scale is shown visually on a map in both centimetres
and inches. In this example, this diagram shows a map witha
scale of 1:100,000. In this case every one centimetre on the
map is equal to one kilometre on the ground.

BEAR SAYS
Learning the symbols can take
time at first but they are quite
straightforward. Put the time _
in
y
to make sure you recognize
them now to make life
easier.
Coordinates
Coordinates can describe any location on Earth. Our planet is a
globe or sphere, and around it are a set of imaginary rings drawn
from east to west and north to south. The lines running from the
top to the bottom of the globe are called lines of longitude, while
the lines running around it are called lines of latitude.

Lines of latitude
Latitude is measured in degrees north or south of the northern
equator (0O-90°). The equator is an imaginary line that OS
runs round the centre of the planet, and is itself a line of
latitude. It divides the Earth into two parts — the northern
and southern hemispheres.

Lines of longitude
Lines of longitude run around the Earth from north
to south. They are called meridians. Longitude is
measured in degrees east or west of the Greenwich
meridian (0-180°).
 ~ ie K Bear
: fae Grylls

Where do you live?

The coordinate system can be used to pinpoint anywhere on
the planet, and works in any language because it relies on
numbers. You can look up the latitude and longitude of where
you live on the internet.

line of
longitude

prime
meridian

line of
latitude

Greenwich meridian
A prime meridian is a line of longitude
defined to be 0°. The modern prime
meridian is situated at Greenwich in
London, UK.

southern
hemisphere
 From globe to map
Our planet is a sphere — but
maps are flat. In order to
create a map, cartographers
have to “project” the 3D
globe onto 2D paper by
squashing and stretching it.
Luckily, the changes made
to the globe are too small to
cause big problems on most
hiking maps.

cylindrical
projection

there
are three
main ways maps are
projected onto flat
paper
 A Bear
Grylls

Grid references
Maps are often divided into squares called grids. These grids help
to
pinpoint a location on the map quickly. The vertical lines crossing
the map
from top to bottom are called “eastings” because the numbers go
up as you
move east across the map. The horizontal lines crossing the map from
one
side to the other are called “northings” as the numbers increase as you
get
further north.

7 58 59

when you give a grid reference

you always give the eastings first.
The forest is in 5742.
MAGNETIC EARTH
Our planet is one big magnet, which is very useful for navigation — just
as long as you have a map, a compass, and an understanding of how
magnetic north and true north differ.

Earth’s magnetic field

At Earth’s centre is liquid iron. This
metal core makes our planet into a
giant magnet, with a magnetic field that
changes over time. Because magnetic
north is not at the geographic North Pole,
you need to make special adjustments
when using a compass. This is known
as declination.

Earth’s magnetic field |

is strongest near the |
North and South Poles.
 Ae
@XGryils |

Which way is north? Misenetic

e e be|

When we talk about “true north” we mean North Pole

. geographic<
the top of Earth — the geographic North North Pole
Pole. Earth spins around, and if you imagine
it is spinning around a line that goes from
the top to the bottom of the planet, the
North Pole is the point at the very top,
and the South Pole is the point at the
very bottom. Magnetic north is different
as it responds to Earth’s changing
magnetic field, and doesn’t line up
with the same point.

geographic
Three norths South Pole
Good maps will have a key to
indicate grid, true (geographic),
and magnetic north.

true north
grid north ke
magnetic north

BEAR SAYS
GPS systems are not affected
_ by the earth’s magnetic field,
so they can be a useful piece of
: _ kit, especially in the far north.
COMPASSES
The compass was invented in China around a thousand years ago and
it is still used today by navigators needing to find their direction of
travel. It works using a tiny magnet controlled by Earth’s magnetic
field, which makes the compass point north.

Which compass should | use?

An orienteering compass is a great place to start. It has a transparent base
and is designed to be used with a topographical map. It is is a very useful
piece of kit and, with practice, is easy to use. No matter which way you turn,
the magnetic needle always points north, so you can discover which way is
north, east, south, and west.
scale

direction of
travel arrow

magnifier

orienting
arrow

magentic needle
orienting lines
 Bear
Grylls

Orient a map
To orient a map you need to align the edge of your
compass with the north-south lines of your map.
Set the dial of your compass to north, then turn the
map and compass together until the north (red) end
of the compass needle is directly over the orienting d
arrow. Your map is now correctly oriented.

/ when the map is

correctly oriented,
/ a line drawn from
your position on the
to true north map to a mapped
landmark will point to
the actual landmark

to true north
Take a bearing
The angle between north and an object is called a bearing.
They are measured in degrees, for example 45 degrees
(45°). Bearings are always measured clockwise — you start
facing north and turn to the right until you reach the angle
of the bearing. Then you should be facing your destination.
A bearing can also be known as a “magnetic” or “true”
bearing depending upon whether it is measured from true
north or magnetic north.
 A Bear
Grylls

Try it yourself!
These diagrams show a hiker walking in three
different directions. Can you work out his
bearing for each picture?

0062 °E 00S 'Z oG'L

SJOMSUY
Get your bearing head this way
1 First align the desired bearing
on the dial with the direction of
travel arrow.

2 Hold the compass in front of

you and turn your body until
the north end of the compass
needle is directly over the
orienting arrow.
Taking a bearing from a map
Your map does not have to be oriented to take a bearing. Place the compass
on
the map with the edge lined up against your desired line of travel. Rotate the
dial until the “N” is aligned with the top of the map and the orienting lines are
parallel with the north-south lines on the map. The bearing on the dial is the
bearing you should follow.

[ NI fi
mM
‘ilUC
lonN o o es © un 396
Bypassing objects
You can also use bearings to make
your way around obstacles.

Basic bypass
This bypass involves three
90-degree turns with a fourth
to bring you back on track. For
i“ oo accuracy, count your paces
when bypassing.

i)

45- and 90-degree bypass

This bypass involves just three
turns. Count your paces to ensure
that each length is of equal
distance.
Marker
Bypassing is easy if you can see
a feature beyond the obstacle
aligned with your bearing. In this
case, walk around the lake until
you reach the lone tree.

Le ta
BEAR SAYS
Learning how to make bypasses
to avoid dangerous obstacles
_ can save precious time on a hike
__ that could be spent setting up
camp or preparing food.

Deliberate offset
Take a bearing left
or right of your
destination. That
way, when you hit a
“baseline”, such as a
road or river, you know
which way to turn.
Other types of compass mirror

Mirror sighting compass

This compass type is similar to
an orienteering compass with the
addition of a hinged mirror. This
allows you to sight your target and
your bearing at the same time.

Trying out different compasses

is not only useful, but fun too.
Each has its own benefits.
 A Bear
: Grylls

Lensatic compass
In situations when an exact reading is
required, a lensatic compass is best. They
are the favoured compass type for military
cover
use. Many models have illuminated dial
markings so they can be used at night.

line up slit
with wire
 Thumb compass
These thumb-mounted
compasses are used in
orienteering.

Direct sighting
Look through the eyepiece
to get a bearing accurate to
within one degree.

BEAR SAYS
Some mobile phones even come
with a compass! You can’t rely
on the battery life though - so
they aren’t a replacement for
proper kit.
Button
A compass doesn’t have to be big to be
useful. Keep a little one in reserve.
 A Bear
Grylls

Make your own compass

These are some simple ways to make
your own magnetic device.

Magnetize
To make a compass, first magnetize a
needle by stroking it in one direction
with a magnet. If you stroke towards
the point of your needle, the point will stroke
indicate north. direction

amp
needle

insulated wire

Battery method
Alternatively, you can magnetize a
needle by coiling some insulated
wire around it. Connect the wire toa
battery for five to ten minutes.

mug

Now you know

If you gently lower the needle into a
mug of water, surface tension should
keep it floating (a coating of natural oil
from your hair will help). The sharp end
will point towards magnetic north.
GPS
Hand-held GPS units are a fantastic aid to navigation, and can be
the difference between life and death in extreme survival conditions.
However, they can’t replace maps — you should always carry a
compass and know how to use it in case your equipment fails.

The global positioning system

A GPS unit works by measuring its exact distance
from a minimum of three satellites in space. The point
at which the three signals intersect is shown witha
black dot below. This point represents the position of
the GPS unit on Earth.

satellite 1

each satellite gives out

a signal that reaches
a certain distance,
shown here as a circle
around each craft

satellite 3
 A Bear
Grylls

Go ona treasure hunt

If you like exploring, and have a
GPS device, you can join the many
hundreds of people who enjoy
A
“geocaching”. This hobby involves
navigating to a set of coordinates
There are 24 satellites in space
and finding a container (the
that work together to make an
geocache) that has been hidden at
accurate view of Earth.
that particular spot.

Hand-held unit
A hand-held GPS unit will tell you
your location, speed, and approximate
altitude (height above sea or ground display
screen
level). It will also permit you to retrace
your path, guide you to specific
waypoints or landmarks, and will work
as a compass as long as you are moving
in one direction.
The more expensive
models come with built-in maps,
electronic compasses, and barometers
(devices that measure pressure in the
atmosphere).
buttons
OTHER WAYS TO NAVIGATE
Even without a compass it is possible to determine direction. The
sun, moon, and stars can be signposts if you know how to read
them. There are also lots of clues in the living world that can help
you find your way.

Navigating the night sky

Looking up at the starry night sky is beautiful — and it can be useful
too. The North and South Celestial Poles are the points in the night
sky that appear to be directly overhead at all times. Finding these
points can help you find the right directions. To find the north polar
star (Polaris), first locate the pattern of stars known as the Plough
or Big Dipper (Ursa Major). To find the south polar star, first find the
constellation Crux.

Hadar ©
CENTAURUS 7 CRUX
ee
i tee i @) p"
Rigil 1 7°
Kent , i a
\ Fi) Aerux
: i i
URSAMINOR __ Polaris \ Q
a a : i i the “False fe
a ; the two bright stars ‘ vi Cross”
. ° at the end of the el O
be : Dipper’s “bowl” point \i
' to Polaris, the North a °
! Celestial Pole.
URSA MAJOR /
the Plough or Big follow the dotted
Dipper lines to find the
. ‘ South Celestial Pole
On Ones. a l
(e)
One
 A Bear
Di : Grylls

Lunar method
Imagine a line connecting the “horns” of the crescent Moon and project
it to the horizon. This point indicates approximate south in the northern
hemisphere or north in the southern hemisphere.

gouthern
woutecs :
hemisphere
hemisphere

approximate approximate
south north

Watch method pete ae

Northern hemisphere Southern hemisphere

Point the hour hand at the Sun. Divide Point the 12 mark at the Sun. Divide
the angle between the hour hand and the angle between the hour hand and
the 12 mark in half to find south. the 12 mark in half to find north.
Shadow tip method vertical stick
The shadow tip
method works in either
hemisphere and is most
accurate around noon.

moving shadow

1 Firstly, place a stick vertically in the ground.

Mark the tip of the shadow made by the stick
with a pebble or another stick.
 % Bear
™ Grylls

‘BEAR SAYS
2 Wait at least ten
minutes before
marking the shadow’s
tip with a second
marker.
You can always rely on
_ the movement ofthe sun
_ throughout the day tohelp —
pinpoint different directions.

3 As the Sun sets in the west the marks will

move east. Join the marks to create a line
that runs from west to east. Draw another
line straight through the east-west line ata
90-degree angle. This will indicate north.
Compass-free map method
Align the features on a map with the

cag
corresponding features in the landscape.
This will allow you to determine direction
and work out your position.

your location is something you

can practise easily. Get a local.
map and go on a walk with a
_ parent to give it a go.

point B on the map (a hill)

lines up with point B in
the landscape
point A (a church) on the
map lines up with point A
in the landscape

you are here

 A Bear
Grylls

Night star method

This simple method uses stars to
pinpoint your location.

1 Set a long stick into the

the string is a virtual \ ground at a slight angle. Tie
shadow of the star’s light \ a length of string to the end
of the stick. Lie on your back,
place the string by your
temple, and align it witha
well-known star.

2 Mark the star’s position on the ground

and then wait a while before marking it
for a second time. As with the shadow tip
method, the first mark will be west and
the second will be east.

mark the
position with
a stick
Signs in nature
Snow
Melted snow on
one side of a tree
will indicate south
Glacial boulders
in the northern
These large rocks sit on pedestals of ice
hemisphere.
that erode on the south side in the northern
hemisphere.

Green sign
Moss usually grows
better on the shady
side of a tree trunk —
that’s the north side
in the northern
hemisphere.

Magnetic
termites Traveller's palm
These Australian The leaves of
termites build their this palm forma
mounds aligned Tipe
dramatic fan that
north-south to is usually aligned
minimize exposure east-west.
to the sun.

Nesting birds
If you are near water, look for
signs of breeding wildlife, e.g.
nests or frogspawn. Water birds,
fish, and frogs often breed on
the west side of a river or lake.
 ae A Bear
Grylls

Prevailing wind
The most common wind direction that a location experiences is called the
prevailing wind. The place the wind has come from brings different types of
weather. The prevailing south-west wind in Britain, for example, is partly why
it often rains more than other countries.

Spider webs
Do you know which way the wind tends to blow?
Spiders do, and will orient their webs sideways to
the prevailing wind.

ay

A
BEAR SAYS
When all else fails, turn to
nature for clues to your
surroundings.

SOT
wih
r

Windswept trees are another good indicator

of prevailing winds, and will show you the
way if you know the local weather.
 KNOTS
@eeeeeeooeaeeeoeoaeaeaeoeaeaseoeoeaeoooaneoeeoeoeooaeoeeoeoeooenoeaeoeeeoeoeee

People have used the knots included in this book

for years and they are just as valuable today.
Early uses included making shelters, weaving,
fishing, and tethering animals. Although they
can take a while to master, the moment you tie a
tricky knot and get to use it in action, you realize
how exciting this ancient art can be!
 % Bear
Grylls

IN THIS SECTION:
Discover knots 98
Overhand loop 101
Figure of eight loop 102
Threaded figure of eight 103
Jury mast knot 104
Angler’s loop 106
Bottle sling 108
Anchor bend 110
Double fisherman’s knot —112
Prusik hitch 113
Clove hitches 114
Italian hitch 117
Pile hitch 118
Highwayman’s hitch 120
Timber hitch 122
Rolling hitch 123
Trucker’s hitch 125
Square lashing 127
Diagonal lashing 129
Shear lashing 131
| Tripod lashing 133
, Eye splice 135
Short splice 137
Impossible knot 139
Ring drop 140
Not a knot
DISCOVER KNOTS!
A sound knowledge of ropes and knots is extremely important for
climbers and mountaineers, but they also have uses in everyday life.
It takes time and practice to master the art of knot tying, but it is very
rewarding to put your skills to use!

Types of rope
Static ropes do not stretch, while
dynamic ropes allow some movement if
the load they are holding suddenly falls.

Laid rope
This rope is used in many outdoor
activities. It has three or more strands
twisted around each other.

individual fibres
make up each strand

Kernmantle rope
Many climbing ropes have a protective
sheath, called a mantle, covering the core
fibres (kern).

Damaged ropes
The sheath of kernmantle ropes can hidea damaged core.
Bulges in the core or tears in the mantle mean that the
rope needs to be replaced. Gomeces
mantle

damaged core
 A Bear
r™ Grylls

Learn the terms

The U-shape that is formed when a rope is hung

Turn over arail.

A round turn is created when a rope is hung over a rail,

Round turn and then wound around the rail one more time.

This knot is made when a rope is hung over a rail, then

Half hitch either under, or both under and over, itself.

Two half hitches that are connected and placed next to

Clove hitch each other make a clove hitch.

The standing end, or standing part, refers to the main

Standing end body of the rope.

A circular shape in the rope where the working end

Overhand turn finishes on top of the circle.

A circular loop in the rope where the working end sits on

Underhand the underside.

The portion of rope, other than the standing part, that is

Working end used to tie a knot. When the knot is finished, the working
end is usually the small tail left over.

A bight is a U-shaped form made in the rope as part of

Bight the knot-tying process.

Carrying ropes
1 Put the two rope ends together. Measure out two
armlengths, then loop the rest of the rope in double
armlengths over your knee or around your shoulders.
This is the main section that will sit on your back.

these two ends will become

the shoulder straps
 3 Pass a bight of rope
through the top of the
looped rope.

2 Wrap the two long ends

tightly around the whole
coil several times. 4 Run the loose ends
through the bight of rope.

5 The whole rope

should now hang
neatly, with two
long ends.

6 Run the long ends over your shoulders, then

across your back, and tie across your stomach.
 Bear
Grylls

OVERHAND LOOP
One of the quickest ways to make a fixed f ink Why i ies oP
: . . Leo ots ar se es
loop in = rope is the overhand Bae: FEN Bight? that lite He?
for a quick secure on a belay station. This _tied eitherin the Pot
knot can become very tight, however, and ; Hae aeat the end of
can be difficult to undo, so it isn’t always the
best choice.

1 Put the two rope ends together.

Stretch the loop out over the top
of the trailing rope.

loop follows
the direction
of the arrow

2 Pull the
loop through
the hole.

3 Attach the loop to

a carabiner (metal
loop, with a spring-
loaded opening).
FIGURE-OF-EIGHT LOOP
Although a bulkier knot, this is thought to
be one of the most secure ways to create a
loop in a rope, and has many uses.

bight goes
through the
eye of the rope

1 Place a looped bight of

rope behind the double
“tail? of the rope.
on"
Os

xx
double tail
SRLS

2 Push the bight up

through the original “eye”.

3 The finished knot

should look a little
like an “8”.
 A Bear
Grylls

THREADED FIGURE-OF-EIGHT
This should end up looking the same as the figure-of-eight loop knot,
but it allows you to tie in to a fixed point, such as a harness
or sling. It is done in two parts.

1 Start by tying a single,

loose figure-of-eight knot in
harness or
the rope, leaving a long tail.
sling
Thread the tail through the
harness or sling, then start
threading the rope back
through the knot.

2 The trick is to follow the

original figure-of-eight
tail knot, but backwards.

3 Make sure the rope follows

exactly the same path as the
original figure-of-eight and
pull the tail through.

4 Again, at the finish

it should look like a
number “8”.
JURY MAST KNOT
This knot can be used to “jury rig” (temporaily fix) a boat’s mast
if the existing rigging fails. The ropes holding the makeshift mast
upright attach to the knot’s three adjustable loops. A jury mast knot
can also be used to put up a tent or flagpole, as long as there is
something to prevent the knot sliding down.

1 Working from left to right, make three

underhand turns. The left edges of the
second and third turns should overlap the
right edges of the first and second turns.

2 Lead the left hand into the first turn 3 With the right hand, lead over the right
from underneath, over the left edge of edge of the third turn, under the right
the second turn, under the right edge edge of the second turn, over the left edge
of the first turn, and pick up the left of the third turn, and pick up the right
edge of the third. edge ofthe first.
 % Bear
Grylls

Centre of
second turn

4 Draw your hands apart far enough 5 The second turn is still in the circular
so that two loose bights begin to form. portion of the knot. Draw it out carefully
The remainder of the knot should be at the top to form a third bight. Adjust
circular in shape with an obvious hole the knot so that the three bights are of
in the middle. a similar size.

6 Place the knot over the end of a spar, 7 The stays — ropes or wires supporting
and adjust to fit snugly. Tie both standing the mast — can be attached to the jury
ends together around the spar. The three mast knot with sheet bends or double
bights become attachment points sheet bends.
for stays.
ANGLER’S LOOP
The angler's loop is a type of knot
that forms a fixed, single loop,
normally tied at the end of a rope.
The angler's loop is difficult or
impossible to untie, so itis best
used where the line can be cut
once the loop is no longer needed.

direction of
rotation in
step two

1 Begin with a working part twice

the length of the loop you wish to
make. Make an underhand turn and
then form a bight in the working end.

2 Rotate the bight right to left, then

lead it through the turn from front to
back. The bight will become the loop.
 Bear
Grylls

the thumb
inserted
to show
channel the
working
end passes
overhand
through in
knot
step 5

3 If the working end is too long, pull 4 Lead the working end around behind
the extra cord into the loop. Work it the standing part, next to the lower
out through the overhand knot and portio of the overhand knot.
into the standing end. ating Branch
rains a
Via rin
in shock cord, work slack out in stagel: 8336>, .
with fingers and tighten gradually. Fv
Shock cord will tend to stretch rather
than slide through the knot

6 Tighten the knot by pulling on the loop,

the standing part, and the working end.
Pull hard on the loop and standing part
5 Slide the working end under both to complete, particularly in shock cord,
strands of the loop, from right to left. which stretches.
BOTTLE SLING
AES
This knot provides a carry handle for a
‘Binding k
knots are
o tor
bottle. It can be used to cool drinks in cold _ ina single piece of
water slung over the side of a boat. This “rope, around bundles
example requires about 1.5 m (5 ft) of cord. of objects.

centre of
original
bight

1 Fold the rope in half, and place the bight

flat on the table. Fold the bight down as
shown, to make two even sized “ears”.

2 Slightly overlap the right ear over the 3 Holding the pattern in place on the
left. The centre of the original bight table, draw the centre of the original
should still be below the intersection bight under the knot at the point of the
of the two ears. lower intersection of the ears.
 A Bear
Grylls

ensure there is
a hole for the
bottle neck here

draw the original

bight up through the
overlap of the ears

4 Now bring the centre of the original 5 Using both hands, turn the ears
bight up through the space formed by the and centre part over at the same
overlapping ears, to make a new bight at time, with the top moving away from
the top. you. The top of the ears now finish at
the bottom of the pattern.

the ends can also be

tied to the bight to
form a handle or sling

7 Work the knot to a snug fit around

6 Lift the knot carefully and place the the neck of the bottle. The ends can be
hole over the neck of the bottle. Tighten tied together to make a second handle,
by pulling on the upper bight and evenly using a fisherman's knot or figure-of-
on the pair of ends. eight bend.
ANCHOR BEND
The anchor bend, also known as
the fisherman’s bend, is quite
a secure knot. It is most often
finished by the addition of a half
hitch. It will hold in bungee cord,
whereas the “round turn and
two half hitches” is particularly
simple to tie, but it will not hold
at all in bungee cord.

1 Make around turn through a ring, 2 Lead the working end left behind the
winding from back to front and left to standing part, then to the front, and tuck
right. Do not pull the turn tight yet, as the it to the right beneath both windings of
working end needs to pass through it first. the round turn.
 4 Bear
Grylls

pull tight Round turn and

two half hitches

round turn

3 Pull on both the standing part and 1 Make a round turn through the ring as
working end to tighten the knot around in step one. Pass the working end around
the ring. This is acompleted anchor behind the standing part, to the front,
bend, but a half hitch is usually added. and under itself, to make the first half
hitch. Pull tight.

pull each half

hitch very tight
with half hitch
added

«pull tight

2 Continue the working end in the same

4 Pass the working end around behind direction, around behind the standing
the standing part again, to the front, part and to the front again, and make the
and under itself. Pull the working end second half hitch.
as tight as possible.
DOUBLE FISHERMAN‘S KNOT |
This is one of the best knots to safely tie two ropes together, and Is
useful on long descents. Start by laying the last metre of each rope
alongside each other, tails in opposite directions.

1 Turn the end of one rope around the other rope twice,
and pass the end back through the loops, away from the
knot’s centre. Do this to both ropes.
rope two

two turns

rope one

2 This should form two =~

“x” shapes, which will
then slide together as
you pull each rope.

pull each rope

to finish
 A Bear
Grylls

PRUSIK HITCH
The prusik knot is an excellent way to
attach a weight to a rope. It slides up and
down the rope when unweighted, but
doesn’t slip under a downward force. Two
prusik knots (one for your feet, one clipped
into the harness) are often used to climb
up, or “prusik”, a rope.

1 Wrap the loop around the

rope, and back through itself.

prusik cord must have

a smaller diameter
than the main rope

2 Repeat this process

twice more so there isa
triple loop top and bottom.

3 Push the knot together. It

will slide up, but will hold if
force is applied downwards.
CLOVE HITCHES as
The clove hitch is a quick and
memorable knot that can be
used to attach a rope to a pole
or acarabiner. It may slip ona
smooth surface. The load can be
applied to either end of the rope.
Steps one and two show the
clove hitch tied with a working
end. The alternate “in-the-hand”
method allows the hitch to be
tied in the bight — anywhere along
the rope.

1 Lead the working end over and down

behind the pole, then up in front and 2 Lead the working end diagonally across
over itself to the left. the turn, around the back of the rail
again, then upwards under itself. You
have formed two half hitches. Pull the
ends to tighten.
 Bear
Grylls

Alternate clove hitch

This method can be used when you can slip left turn sitting
the hitch over the end of a pole. over right

direction the loops

will move in Step 4

1lf you don't have easy access totheends 2 Slide the left-hand turn over the right,
of the rope, tie the clove hitch using this then slide the fingers of the left hand
alternate method. Begin by making two through the centre of both loops.
consecutive overhand turns.

3 When viewed from the side, the two half 4 Simply slide the half hitches over the
hitches can be identified. It is the same end of the pole and tighten.
knot as shown in step two of the simpler
clove hitch, shown to the left.
 Clove hitch for a carabiner
This hitch is also used in climbing. It can be used
to safely lower climbing gear from a great height.
It increases the amount of friction on the rope but
also allows it to slip, so it can be used instead of
a belay.

1 Make two loops in the rope,

both in the same direction. lower
loop

higher
2 Place the lower loop over loop
the higher loop, so that both
tails of the rope are in the
middle of the hitch.

both rope
tails are in
the hitch’s
centre 3 Clip a carabiner through the two
loops. The hitch is surprisingly strong.
 AK Bear
Grylls

ITALIAN HITCH
This hitch can be used to safely lower climbing gear from a great
height. It increases the amount of friction on the rope but also
allows it to slip, so it can be used instead of a belay.

1 Grab the rope with

two crossed hands,
palms down.

2 Uncross your hands but

hold onto the rope, twisting
it into two loops.

one tail is
below, the
other above

3 Pull the two

loops together.

4 Clip the
carabiner
through the
two loops.

downward pull
PILE HITCH
Pile hitches can be used to attach a dinghy to a post, or an anchor
line to a bollard. They can be tied in the bight or at the end of a rope.
The length of the working end required to tie the hitch will depend on
the thickness of the post. To untie, ease some of the working end back
into the hitch until there is enough slack to lift the bight off the top of
the post.

1 Form a bight long

enough to pass several
times around the post.
Hold the standing
parts in one hand.
With the other, wrap
standing part
the bight around the
post, underneath
both standing parts.
 % Bear
Grylls

bight goes over

the top of the post Double pile hitch
The double pile hitch is very secure but
a little more complicated to untie.

2 Widen the bight and place it over the

1 Complete step one of the pile hitch
top of the post.
(shown left), then wind the bight
around the post a second time, before
placing it over the post. The second
winding is made lower down the post
than the first.

2 Adjust the hitch as in step three of

3 Pull evenly on both ends to firm the the pile hitch. With both hitches, make
hitch. If the rope is sticking and not sure that you hold the ends together
tightening evenly around the post, you until the bight is placed over the post,
may have to help it, but be careful not to so that both ends are secure.
catch your fingers.
HIGHWAYMAN’‘S HITCH
The highwayman’s hitch is a useful knot to know because it instantly
releases with a tug on the working end. However, it is not
the most secure of hitches can be loosened quite easily.

standing \
second
part leave
a longish
bight
working end

1 Form a long bight in the left hand, 2 With the right hand, form a second bight
with the working end to the right of the in the standing part, with the remainder of
standing part, and lead it up behind the standing part on the right side of this
the rail. new bight.
 Bear
Grylls

second bight
led into first

third bight

| standing
] part

3 Tuck this second bight up through the 4 With the right hand, form a third bight
first, hold it in place with your left hand, in the working part, with the working end
and tighten the first bight around the to the right.
second by pulling on the working end.

third bight led

into second
pull on working
end to release

standing
part to
tighten

6 Pull on the standing part to firm the

5 Lead this third bight fully up into the second bight around the third.To release,
second, so that there is no slack around pull on the working end and the hitch
the rail. will slide apart.
TIMBER HITCH
The timber hitch is an easy method
of securing a rope to a pole. With pee mere net
the timber hitch tied at the centre
of gravity, the pole can be hoisted
up. The addition of a half hitch
forms the killick hitch, which
allows the pole to be towed on
land or through water. The timber
hitch is also used to attach nylon
strings to a guitar bridge.
2 Wind the working end around the turn
again once, twice, or three times. Pull
tight on the standing part and ease the
slack out of the windings through the
working end.

add a half hitch

some distance from
the timber hitch

direction of pull
alternatively, go over the for towing
turn first, then under it
from left to right

1 Make a loose turn around the pole from

the back to the front. Pass the working
end behind the standing part, to the
front, and under the turn.
 4 Bear
Grylls

ROLLING HITCH
The rolling hitch is used to tie a rope to a pole or to larger rope,
when the load is to be applied at an angle between 45 and
90 degrees to the pole. The direction of the load, or strain, will
decide the way in which the knot must be tied. The hitches
shown here take the strain from the right.

1 Begin the hitch with a round turn, 2 Pass the working end diagonally left
going up and over, and from left to right. across both windings, then down around
the back of the pole.

3 Tuck the working end up under the

diagonal. Note that the rolling hitch is
actually a clove hitch with an extra turn
around the pole on the right.
 _ load the hitch
from the right

4 Pull both ends to tighten. The load can 5 Lead the working end up behind the
be applied from the right of the hitch. rope, to the front, and tuck it under itself,
For loading from the left, begin tying the parallel to the standing part. The knot
hitch as in step one, but winding from looks like a cow hitch with an extra turn.
right to left.

Tautline hitch

load the hitch |

from the right |

TTie this hitch using a line that is at 2 Pull both ends to firm the hitch tight
least half the diameter of the taut around the rope. As with the rolling
rope. Complete step one of the rolling hitch, the strain can be applied from the
hitch, then lead the working end left direction in which the initial overhand
in front of the standing part. turn was made.
 @ Bear
Grylls

TRUCKER'S HITCH
As it can be tensioned further after tightening, this knot is
suitable for tying tent stays, or securing a load on a trailer.
The hitch provides leverage, allowing the rope to be pulled
tight, and uses up any excess cordage.

this knot requires a

length of rope four to five
times the distance from
the hitch’s starting point
to the securing point

1 Begin with the standing part tied 2 With your right hand, form a bight in
to an upper fastening point. Rotating the working part. It will need to have a
counterclockwise, make a small overhand length approximately half the distance
turn and secure it in your left hand. from the turn to the securing point.
3 Lead the end of the bight into the 4 This forms a new, lower bight, called a
overhand turn from below — not too shank. Lead the working end down and
far in, about a fifth of its length will do. through the lower fastening point.
Secure the bight and overhand turn in
your left hand.

5 Lead the working end up through 6 Pull the end as tight as necessary and tie
the shank from back to front. Apply it off above the fastening point - a couple
downward tension to the working end. of half hitches should do. The trucker's
The turn will grip the bight and you can hitch requires some practice to master.
let go with the left hand.
SQUARE LASHING |
S9OOSSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSHSSHSSHHHSHHSHSHSSHHSHSHSHHSSHHOBHOHSHBHSOHSOHSHOHSHEHSLE

Square lashing is a relatively easy way Ma Steak

to secure two poles at right angles. Be _ Lashing isgenes oe
: é fasteningitems to ote,
careful
eee
with the tension and the number “ince 5
cord. They are
as * :
of windings — the lashing must be strong manent and use :
enough for the job, but not so tight that Ne windings. idé A
ie a i
the poles are bent.
Oe ee

later additional windings

will lock the tail securely.

1Tie aclove hitch to the vertical pole.

Wind the tail and standing parttogether. |
Place the horizontal pole on top of the Fd
vertical. Lead the ends over both poles to o
the right. a
 path the end
follows to form
the first winding

2 Maintaining the tension, lead the cord 3 Repeat the winding process about |
behind the upper vertical pole, over and four times. The number of windings will
down in front of the left horizontal pole, depend on the diameter of the poles and
around behind the lower vertical pole the thickness of the cord.
and to the front.

frapping turns do not bind

pole to pole but compress
the existing windings
clove hitch
to finish

4 Start the frapping turns. Make a turn 5 Stop at the top left and tie a tight clove
over the right horizontal pole, then wind _ hitch around the upper vertical pole, so the
clockwise between the two poles three —_ lashing can't slide or rotate under tension.
or four times.
 % Bear
Grylls

DIAGONAL LASHING
Diagonal lashing is used to secure
poles that cross diagonally together.
The two poles don’t have to be at
right angles — the timber hitch at
the start pulls both poles together
without changing their position.
However, if the poles are not held in
place, the angle can be difficult to
keep during lashing.

lead the cord

away from you and
around the back

1Tie a timber hitch around both poles, at

the intersection with the widest angle.
Tighten the hitch and lead the cord away
from you, around the back of both poles.

the tension applied in the diagonal lashing

process isn’t as great as in square lashing,
but there is less chance of the poles sliding
start lashing If the poles are
through the , 4 fixed, wind the
wider angle first same number of
times as for the
wider angle

2 Wind tightly over the top of the hitch 3 Now wind across the other, narrower
and around the middle four or five times. angle. If the poles are not fixed, apply
Unless the poles are fixed, the tighter pressure and continue winding until you
you wind, the wider the angle becomes. achieve the angle you want.

three or four
frapping turns
should do tie off with a
| - clove hitch

4 Wind the cord counterclockwise by 5 Finish with a clove hitch around one
passing in front of the upper vertical of the poles. Line it up with the end of
pole, behind the left cross pole, in front the frapping turns so that there is little
of the lower vertical pole and behind the — chance of the hitch sliding or rotating
right cross pole. under tension.
 2 Bear :
Grylls.

SHEAR LASHING
A shear lashing can secure two
poles together to reinforce them. It
can also extend a pole if the lashing
is placed near the end, at the point
where the two poles overlap. Tied
a little more loosely, it makes an
A-frame lashing. Here, the two
poles are separated slightly so
that they can be moved apart. The
A-frame is also known as shear
legs and can be used for a tent or
lean-to shelter.

cover the short end

of the clove hitch
with the lashing

1 Lay two poles side by side and tie 2 Begin winding, but not as tightly for an
together with a clove hitch. Leave the A-frame as for securing two poles. As
shorter end long enough to be secured a rule, make the binding length no less
underneath the windings. than the width of the two poles.
 cover the short end
of the clove hitch
with the lashing

3 For the frapping turns, lead the cord 4 Finish at the opposite end to the original
behind the top pole and to the front clove hitch and tie another clove hitch
between the poles. Wind across the around one pole, not both. The hitch must
existing windings, between the poles. be tight, and snug against the lashing.

scissor action to
generate A-frame

5 If tying poles together to reinforce or 6 To use as an A-frame, separate the poles by

extend them, make a tighter binding, using a scissor action, stretching the cord
leave out the frapping turns, and finish equally at both ends of the lashing. Practice
with a clove hitch around both poles. will help you apply the right lashing tension.
 % Bear
: Grylls

TRIPOD LASHING
There are different methods of tying tripod lashings but this one can
be tied into a frame, taken to a site, and put up. After use it can be
folded flat and taken away, with a temporary binding (such as the pole
lashing) securing the other end. However, it doesn’t form the perfect
triangle shape at its base. Like the shear lashing, the angle at which
the legs can be separated depends on the length and tension of the
lashing, and the stretch in the cord.

when beginning, leave space

for the width of the lashing plus
enough space to hang an item

1 Lay three poles side by side, making sure

the ends that will stand on the ground are
even. Tie a clove hitch around the top pole
at a suitable distance from the ends.

3 Start winding between the poles:

working end and lead both ends towards under the bottom pole, over the centre,
you across the three poles. This will help under the top, then around and over,
lock the clove hitch and its tail. this time under the centre pole, and
over the bottom.
wind for about the width of two
poles. Stop with the cord coming
from behind the top pole. Begin
frapping turns

4 Begin frapping turns by leading the 5 Lead the cord behind the centre pole, and
cord down in front of the top pole, then to the front between the centre and bottom
to the back between the top and centre poles. Make a second set of frapping turns
poles. Form two or three turns around in the opposite direction to the first.
the windings.

6 To finish, tie off with a clove hitch 7 To erect the tripod, separate the outer
around the bottom pole. The frapping poles and use a scissor action to swing the
turn must lead straight into the hitch so centre pole in the opposite direction. This
that there is no chance of it rotating. may be difficult if the lashing is too tight.
 % Bear
Grylls

Py oreICE
Rope splicing is a way ofjoining two
before you start, count 10
pieces of rope by unravelling their bumps from the end, and
strands and then weaving them tie a knot

together. A splice is used where a

rope is fixed permanently to an item
or slipped over a hook, stake, or
bollard. An eye splice isn’t actually
a knot, but a way to form an “eye” in
the end of a length of laid rope. winding
or "bump"
strand 3

1 Begin to unlay the rope. As you

separate the strands, bind them with
tape. Continue to unlay the strands up
to the knot. Number each strand.

next, tuck strand

3 through the eye

2 Open the lay of the rope to raise one 3 Feed strand 3, which is to the right
strand. Feed the central strand, strand 2, of strand 2, under its corresponding right
diagonally left under the raised strand in strand in the standing part, that is, the
the standing part. Do not pull it through strand to the right of the one that strand 2
completely yet. is tucked under.
 strand lis
the third
to be
tucked begin the second set
of tucks with strand 2

4 Rotate the rope slightly, and tuck 5 Continue weaving the unlaid strands
the remaining strand 1 under its in this diagonal pattern until you have
corresponding left strand of the completed four sets of tucks. Three
standing part. Pull the three unlaid may be enough, but not if the lay of the
strands snugly up to the standing part. rope is loose.

trim and
complete four seal ends
sets of tucks

6 Maintain the even twist in the unlaid 7 Thick rope may need the assistance of
strands as you tuck. If you don't open a fid (a cone-shaped tool) for opening the
the lay in the standing part sufficiently, lay. After the fourth tuck, the ends can be
the twist in the strands will increase as trimmed and either sealed with heat or
you go. whipped (binded with twine).
 A Bear
Grylls

SHORT SPLICE
This is a method of permanently joining two lengths of laid rope of
a similar thickness. This method avoids the rope becoming thicker
at the join.
rope ends aligned

strand winding
or "bump"

1 Tie a constrictor knot around each piece

of rope about 12 bumps from the end. Tape
and number the strands and unwind them.
Align the strands of the rope ends.

begin tucking the left two sets of tucks,

rope into the right left into right,
completed

2 Following steps two to four of the eye 3 Make a set of tucks of the right rope into
splice (p.41), begin to weave the left rope the left. Tighten the strands and adjust the
into the right. Make two sets of tucks. alignment of one rope to the other. Loosen
the constrictor knots as needed.
 one set of tucks,
right into left, four sets each
completed way completed

4 Make another set of tucks with the 5 The splice is completed and the ends
right rope into the left, so that there are can be trimmed and sealed. However, if
two sets in each direction. Then make you wish to taper the splice so that it
alternate sets until you have four in blends neatly into the rest of the rope,
each direction. proceed to step six.

6 An easy way to taper is to not tuck 7 When the tucking of each strand is
one strand of each set after three tucks, completed in the correct order, the splice
leave out a second strand after the fourth will have an even taper. Trim and seal the
tuck, and make a fifth tuck with the one ends neatly.
remaining strand.
IMPOSSIBLE KNOT
Put a length of rope in front of your
friends and challenge them to pick it
up then tie a knot without letting go
with either hand. The result must be
a proper knot that does not collapse
when the rope is pulled tight.

1 Lay the rope on

a table. Before
picking it up, cross
your arms over
each other. Now ene —
lean over and pick _ Rope tricks are2 ways ees
up one end of the of tying and untying a Le
rope in each hand. _ knot that at first glance_ ,
appear impossible! ,

2 Keeping a firm hold on the rope, uncross 3 With this trick, you tie an overhand
your arms and move your hands apart, knot in the rope without letting go of
letting the rope slip over your wrists and either end.
hands as you do so.
RING DROP
This trick allows you to remove a 2 With your left little finger, reach over
ring that has been threaded onto the bight formed by the right little finger,
and hook it around the upper strand to
a loop. The loop should be made
the right of the ring, again from behind.
from a length of thin cord about
one metre (3 ft) long. Practise
this first so you know how to do it let the loop slide
off the left little
quickly, then amaze your friends
by getting them to try first — then
if they can’t figure it out, show
them how it is done!

let the loop

1 With the loop hanging over both slide off the
your thumbs, hook the right little right thumb in
step 3
finger around the upper strand, to
the left of the ring and from behind.

3 To free the ring, move your hands

apart while letting the loop slip off the
left little finger and the right thumb.

bight to be picked
up in step 2
 % Bear
Grylls

NOT A KNOT
SOSSSSSOCHHSSHSHHSHSHSHHSHSHSHHHHSHHHHSHHHSHHHSHHSHHHHHSOHSHHHSHHOHHHHSE®S

This trick, which begins with a reef knot, looks very complicated, but
the knot falls apart completely when pulled tight. The final step is
easiest to carry out if thin cord or flexible rope is used rather than
thick or stiff rope. A piece of cord about one metre (3 ft) long is ideal.

1 Form a loop and tie a reef knot. Pick 2 Lead the same working end through
up the working end that emerges the centre of the reef knot, again from
_ towards the back of the knot and lead back to front.
it through the loop from back to front.

3 Pull firmly on both ends ofthe cord.

The original reef knot will collapse and
disappear completely.
 DANGERS AND
EMERGENCIES
There is so much out there in our amazing
world to explore and experience, yet it is vital
that you remain unharmed as you pursue new
adventures. Our planet and its creatures can be
dangerous at times, so learn the skills you need,
and remain safe in the face of adversity.
IN THIS SECTION:
Stay safe in the wild 144
Dangerous animals 150
Dangerous plants 167
Quicksand 168
Sourcing water 169
Water from plants 172
Water purification 176
Food from plants 178
Hunting small animals 180
Edible invertebrates 184
Emergency shelters 186
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 whee
arms behind
your head

Need mechanical help Have radio Can proceed shortly

 A Bear
Grylls

lay down with both your

arms above your head

Need medical help

in
8. raise both arms in the
As air and wave them _ Om,

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
it up and
down

Use drop message Negative (no) Affirmative (yes)

 Fire cones
Keep these primed with plenty of dry
fuel, and ready to go at all times.

Smoke cones
In the daytime, smoke
marks your position
more clearly than
fire. Use fuel
sources such as
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
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 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

y/ up to 40 km away in good
conditions

signal kite -
these work
best with a
strobe light
attached

rocket flare
Signal mirror sunlight

iiii
Tiiyfi i)
Lis— Wy),
y Hy yy

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 (

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).
 K 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

clear an area of at least

18 m in diameter - the
ground should be as
flat as possible

PN one
es
eee ey TS Lotions ost
hs = =alts
stand outside the is
‘ landing zone, but
- make sure you are ( attach light fabric
easy to see wot), Ma, to a pole to show
; AA Si ae wind direction

149
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.
 % Bear.
Grylls

adult larva
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

SEED

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 with tweezers Clean and bandage
it with duct tape. when it comes out. the wound.

centipede

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 a tick, 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 are responsible 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.
 %. 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 Américan 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.
 % Bear
Grylls

African and Asian snakes

Boomslang Cobra Krait

The venom ofthis 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 percent of bites to
blood clotting. humans were fatal.
 AK 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 tg eager
generally placid and unlikely
to attack.

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

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
t .. destroy red blood 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
AR
am.

Pah.
ata

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

occur ona limb. Start limb as possible. This slows _ and keep it below the level
applyinga pressure the movement of the venom _ of the heart. Keep the victim
bandage just above the and the onset of symptoms. calm and make sure their
toes or fingers. breathing is regular.
 A Bear
Grylls

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.
 % Bear
Grylls

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 boxjellyfish
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. Their sharp beaks can inflict
deep wounds and often break
off inside the victim.

Toadfish
Venomous toadfish dwell in
tropical waters off the coasts
ieee
“ve ees Reesaoe SC.S «~Secctee of Central and South America.
FS Coase = EO < OMe =
23SOMO “aN
ee They have very sharp, very
WY
INS 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
ACIS

Shark
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.
 A Bear
Grylls

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 on a bull that 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.
 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.
 4. Bear
Grylls

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.

1 If 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.

4 Use swimming or snake-like motions to return to

solid ground. It may take hours to move a few feet,
but you can take a break at any time.

Escaping from quicksand is a

battle. The number one rule is
ES Ss ee — SS
to keep calm. Once you have fe = ees ee
———

escaped, clean yourself off to

prevent further harm

ms 4
~ from chafing.

Hy
 % Bear
Grylls

SOURCING WATER
If 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

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 Usuallyin the
5 km. 2.5 km. 450 m. immediate area.
 BEAR SAYS
Don’t give up too soon! You may
need to dig down 1m 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.
Grylls

ocean
rr
¥
position well
here
Y OWWy,
4Voss
ei =
Nr.

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 1 m 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 from the water source. The
water that fills the well will be filtered and should be safe to drink.
WATER FROM PLANTS
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 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.

carve
bowl here
 AK Bear
Grylls

Green bamboo
Green bamboo can supply
you with fresh water,
even at the height of the
tropical dry season.To
collect water fromayoung “%7
stalk, bend it over, tie it
securely, and cut off the
top. Water will drip out of
the cut. Collect it in
a container.
SAAowe

collection container

stake and rope

make two 45° Water from a vine

angle cuts Cut a section of avine 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
water within.
 Transpiration
This is one of the most
efficient and easily
constructed sources of water
in an arid setting.
Tie a plastic
bag around a leafy branch of a
medium-sized tree or shrub,
and place a container
underneath. After a few
hours in the Sun, you
will have some clean,
drinkable water.

ing,a

yS |
Finding clean, safe water should /
always be your top priority. |
You can survive three weeks 6
without eating, but only three
~~— days without water, so
> find it fast. “
~~ ‘ ~ ! a a
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 ina 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 ina 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 acollection point.

rocks to keep the

vegetation elevated

prop up or suspend
the topic 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
ofa tent.

Cacti
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
vessel

condensation vessel

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

Chemical
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 fora sunlight for at least six hours (or for
slightly odd taste. two days in very cloudy conditions).
 AK Bear.
Grylls
iS

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

BEAR SAYS
before drinking it.

If you don’t have a filter, you can

make one using a plastic bottle,
gravel, sand, and charcoal. The
charcoal helps to filter out a
Bottle filter tiny impurities in
vinusraric This filter bottle works the water.
bacteria with a cartridge that
filter needs to be replaced
parasite after every 160 refills,
filter
or 216 gallons of water.
Simply squeeze to
carbon
Flt produce a flow of water.

UY light
emitter
pump
handle

Pump filter
There are many pump Ultraviolet
filtration systems that eid This battery-driven device
hikers can use. Each Carbon uses UV light to sterilize
stroke of the pump 975 ml of water in 90 seconds.
draws water through The water must be clear for
the filter and purifies it. the 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. Am.
A

‘BEARSAYS
Edibility test
1Crush and smell the plant sample.
Reject it if you sense strong, acid, or
Tap along a piece of bamboo
almond odours.
and listen to the noise it makes.
Sections that have water inside

2 Crush and rub the sample against the eile an aeceet ge

inside of your elbow. Wait 15 minutes
and discard if there is any irritation.

3 Hold asmall 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. flowers

5 Chew asmall amount for several

minutes, but do not swallow. If there is
we
leaves
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.
roots
 AK Bear
Grylls

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.
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

SAYS
Insects, frogs, lizards, and
rodent skewer
snakes are a good source of
protein. Keep tiredness at bay
with these energy sources in
an emergency.
 AK 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 a lizard
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 be eaten. 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 be a
venomous species.
Snares Simple loop snare
These traps are used to catch Make a snare about
some animals, often using wire the size of your fist for
or cord. } small animals, such as
Y rabbits. Set up about
Ti “J }) \\ \ 15 snares for each
a vay N | : animal you hope
to catch.

wire snare supporting

twigs

Spring snare trigger

Game running through a
spring snare releases the
trigger bar and is flung off
the ground. It’s useful for
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.
 RK Bear.
Grylls

springy sapling
eiove Trapeze spring snare
This trap has two separate P Me

snares built into one BFAR

mechanism.
This will 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
catching a meal.
snare bar

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
bys 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.
 K 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
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

All-natural shelter
A leafy bed, brush-covered
lean-to, and a fire can keep
you warm and dry.

Boughbed
A bough bed is made from
ees
evergreen branches arranged in
overlapping rows. It will provide
insulation, comfort, and will
keep you above any rain that is
running along the ground.
 A Bear
Grylls

check that the broken partis

Fallen tree shelter strong enough to last the night
A fallen tree can make a c
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.

Sahn
- 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.
 ShmtboreitS* @@G@eeeoeeoeeGeeee
ee @ @ G

Analogue - An analogue device usually has a needle or pointer (think about

clocks) and can show a continuously variable number.

Bearing - A bearing is the angle measured between north and an

actual object.

Bight - A loop of rope.

Bypass - A bypass is an alternative route around an object.

Carabiner - A metal link with a safety closure, used by climbers to attach ropes,
harnesses, and anchors.

Carbon monoxide - A colourless, odourless, toxic gas.

Chafing - When something irritates skin by rubbing against it.

Compass - An instrument used for finding your way, often alongside a map.

Concave - Curving in or hollowed inward.

Condensation - The process where a gas turns into a liquid.

Constellation - A group of stars.

Contour - A line that shows the 3D shape of something.

Convex - A convex shape is curved or rounded outwards.

fe
Coordinates - A system that means every location on Earth
can be described by a set of numbers.

Digital - A digital device usually has a computerized display.

Dynamic - Moving, not static.

Evaporation - The process where a liquid turns into a gas.

Flare - A very bright light that is used to send a signal, often used when signalling
for rescue or to show your position.

Gully - A ravine formed by water.

Hitch - A dynamic knot that can be easily adjusted.

Horizontal - A line running from left to right.

gnote - To set alight.

Insulate - To trap heat.

Kilometre - A unit of length equal to one thousand metres.

_andmark - An object that is easily seen from a distance.

_atitude - A position between North and South.

_atrine - An outdoor toilet.

_axative - A food or medicine that causes you to poo.

Lensatic - A compass with a magnifying lens.

Longitude - A position between East and West.

Machete - A sharp knife used for chopping away plants in the wild.

Meridian - A circle of constant longitude around the world.

Orienteering - A sport involving navigational skills using a map and compass.

Paralysis - A condition that leaves you unable to move part or all of you body.

Prevailing wind - The most frequent wind direction experienced at a

particular location.

Rabies - A disease that causes madness and aggression, transmitted through

saliva and common in dogs.

Scale - The relationship between the distance on a map to the corresponding

distance on the ground.

Stagnant - When unmoving water develops an unpleasant smell as a result.

Symbol - A picture, word, or abbreviation on a map.

Tarpaulin - Heavy waterproof cloth, often used for shelters.

Thermal - Relating to heat.

Temperate - An area with a mild climate.

Termite - An insect that usually lives in a large group.

Topographical - A topographical map shows the shape of the ground (e.g. flat
or hilly) using contour lines.

Transpiration - The process where plants absorb water from the soil through
their roots, and releases it through their leaves.

Tropical - An area of regular sun.

Urethra - The tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body.

Venom - A dangerous toxin transferred via a bite.

Vertical - A line running from top to bottom.

 Discover more amazing books in
the Bear Grylls series:
i]

Perfect for young adventurers, the

Ultimate Survival Handbook 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, explore Earth in Extreme Planet, and
discover some of history’s greatest explorers
in the Epic Adventures series.

Conceived by Weldon Owen in partnership

with Bear Grylls Ventures

Produced by Weldon Owen, an imprint of Kings Road Publishing

Suite 3.08 The Plaza, 535 Kings Road,
London SW10 OSZ, UK

Copyright © 2018 Weldon Owen, an imprint of Kings Road Publishing

WELDON OWEN
Editor Susie Rae
Designer Shahid Mahmood
Contributor Jen Green
Illustrators Peter Bull Studios (original illustrations),
Bernard Chau (colours)
Printed in Malaysia
24681097531
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a 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 correc
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. AN IMPRINT OF KINGS ROAD PUBLISHING.

PART OF THE BONNIER PUBLISHING GROUP.
ULTIMATE SURVIVAL
HANDBOOK
CAMPING © MAPS & NAVIGATION
KNOTS © DANGERS & EMERGENCIES

Embark on an exciting adventure in the great

outdoors with Bear Grylls.

Discover how to camp in the wild, find out how to

spot and avoid dangers, learn how to find your way in
any environment, and master some amazing knots.

Includes step-by-step instructions and tips from Bear.

£9.99