One of the fondest childhood memories I have are camping with my dad. My dad and I would grab our tent, sleeping bags and fishing poles and head down to a local lake for a weekend. Camping can be a wonderful activity for the entire family. It can also become a huge calamity if you are not prepared or don’t know what to expect.

If you are not experienced at camping then it might be best to start with a commercial campground. These campgrounds are often listed in the yellow pages. The costs of these campgrounds is often nominal and they usually have showers, bathrooms, electrical hookups, running water nearby, fire pits and a camp store for any necessities that you may have forgotten. Established commercial campgrounds also often have activities for the entire family including swimming pools, hiking trails, paddle boats and fishing lakes. Although most of these campgrounds are set up for campers they almost at always have tent sites as well.

Once you have tried camping at an established campground you may decide to want to rough it out in the woods on your own. To find locations for tent camping you might try doing an internet search on camping.

Regardless of where you go camping it is important that you be prepared. The following is a list of items you should consider for ensuring you are prepared for an enjoyable camping trip.

Camping Inventory

1. Tent. You can find a wide selection of tents in various sizes from 2 person tents to family sizes. You might consider getting the children their own tent. They will enjoy having their own space.

2. Sleeping bags and an air mattress if desired.

3. Flash lights and extra batteries.

4. Matches

5. Cookware. Cooking on an open fire will probably not be good for your best cookware so you might want to bring older pots and pans or consider buying a camping cookware set. Think ahead about foods that will be easy to cook on a fire.

6. Firewood. If you are not camping at an established campground you may not have access to firewood.

7. First Aid kit. This should include band aids, peroxide, gauze, burn crème, tape, a tool for removing splinters, and anti bug spray.

8. Water for drinking

9. Trash bags. Whether you go camping at an established campground or in the woods somewhere it is imperative that you leave the area exactly as you found it. If the location does not have trash bins then pick up your trash and take it with you. Don’t ruin the experience for the next family.

If you carefully plan your camping trip and expect the unexpected by being prepared for anything you will have a great time camping.

Whether you plan to have a week-long hike or just a day adventure in the wilderness, you need to be prepared for an emergency. You will not know when you might slip on the rocks, or be attacked by wild animals. Preparing a wilderness survival kit is the best idea to start from.

Your personal wilderness survival kit must be small and compact enough so that it does not become a burden and can easily be carried on your body.  Pack only essential items that can help you survive an unexpected situation. Here are some of my suggested items:

1.Spark-Lite. This device is capable of starting a fire. It’s not complicated to use and very small and light. With a size of 58×7x7 mm and a weight of 5 grams; it’s not bigger than bundled small wooden matches that can be contained into a standard match container. Despite the size, it has the ability of producing a lot of sparks; approximately a hundred sparks.  

2.Matches. There are windproof and waterproof types. Waterproof matches are commonly used which are wooden kitchen matches that are dipped in paraffin. There are also matches that cannot be extinguished even in the strongest rain and winds. These matches are mainly useful since fire is a very important aspect of survival. Fire has many uses from giving warmth and heat to signaling.

3.Fire Sticks. These sticks are also useful for fireplaces and campfires and on emergency situations when you need a flare, light and heat. They leave no odor, they are non-toxic and still ignites even when submerged in water.

4.Compass. This will keep you move in a straight line when your searching for food, shelter, water and warmth. There can be instances that you’ll get lost in the wilderness and your compass can be useful in looking for a distant object, reach it and look for other directions.

5.Mirror and Whistle. Mirrors are useful to reflect sunrays and draw attention to yourself. You can blow the whistle as a signal also. These two items can make yourself visible to your rescuers.

Other items that can include the survival kit are flashlights, batteries, knives, gloves, safety goggles, first aid kit and supplies. Your personal survival kit need not to be fully packed; it can contain just few but very functional items. Remember that this kit will not be the only key to survival in the wilderness but your mindset that you can survive even the slightest danger ahead.

wilderness survival kits have first aid items, ways to make fire, a blade of some sort, and some water purification tablets. That’s the minimum in any case, and there are certainly other items in almost any kit that you buy. But of course not everyone is going into the same kind of terrain during the same seasons and engaging in the same activities. In other words, you might not find a kit that has just what you need in it. The solution? Build your own.To start with, you need a good nylon pouch or zippered bag to hold everything. You can start stocking it with the usual items. These should include matches, some other form of fire starter (lighter or magnesium stick), a signal reflector, whistle (also for signaling), water purification tablets, a compass, a knife, some cord, duct tape, paper, a pencil, needle and thread, safety pins, bandages, aspirin, gauze pads, sun block, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, tweezers, and moleskin.

 

Next, consider the types of environment you are normally going to be in. If you often hike in the desert, for example, a large garbage bag or piece of plastic might be a good idea. It can be used to make a solar still if you need water.

If you canoe to isolated locations far from civilization, fishing gear might be a good addition. A few rolls of line and a half-dozen hooks and split-shot sinkers will add only an ounce or so to the weight of the kit. This better prepares you to feed yourself should your other supplies get washed away.

If you do a lot of cold-weather backpacking you might include an emergency “survival blanket.” One of the metallic-plastic ones might weigh only a few ounces, yet work to warm you as well as keep the rain off of you.

If you hike in the mountains and are prone to twisted ankles or knee problems, add an ace bandage. If the metal hooks snag on things in your kit, you can leave them behind and just tuck the wrap into itself. I also sometimes carry an elastic knee-brace that weighs just a few ounces.

If you travel very far from roads or civilization in general, food can be a great addition as well. Find some granola bars or something else that has an expiration date a year away or more. That way you can leave the emergency food in your survival kit between trips, so you don’t forget it.

If you travel in cold wet places, add a good fire tinder that will light when wet. This could be cotton balls soaked with petroleum jelly, cardboard soaked in wax, or something similar. Alcohol-based gel hand sanitizer can help wet things burn as well (and can be used as a disinfectant).

Finally, consider making small survival kits for your pocket. Losing gear is not that uncommon, but you rarely lose the clothes you are wearing. This kind of kit should have aspirin, waterproof matches, a bandage, and a small amount of duct tape. You can add other items, but keep the whole thing small enough and light enough to comfortably carry in a pocket.

You will now find and see fire performers in rock bands, music videos, commercials, films, stage productions, casinos and night clubs. NOW IT’S UP TO YOU TO CARRY THE SACRED SECRETS AND ENJOY THE DVD OF BECOMING A SPECTACULAR FIRE PERFORMER.

DISCLAIMER: The following is made in lieu of all warranties, expressed or implied: neither seller or manufacturer shall be liable for any loss, injury, or damage, direct or consequential, arising out of the use of or the inability to use this information of products in this DVD or booklet. Before using, the user shall determine the suitability of the product for his intended use, and user assumes all risks and liability whatsoever in connection therewith. All goods sold as in thee items must be kept out of reach of children. The material in this DVD and book is intended for the information and guidance of serious adults. It is not for children and should be kept from them. No responsibility accepted for damage to property or injury to person or persons caused by application of the information in this DVE or safety book. PROOF OF AGE – 18 YEARS to purchase this DVD and products contained in this book.

YOU ARE PLAYING WITH FIRE A PERSONAL NOTE:

Brendan and I have been performing with fire for over eighteen years and with our own experiences with fire, we know what could go wrong as we do not want to see or hear of any person or persons that purchase this fire-teaching video to be harmed or injured in anyway as we are both concerned about your well being and safety. This book will guide you through all safety issues and keep you out of dangerous situations. Please be careful, don’t be stupid and don’t be a hero. Please take all our experienced advice and safety precautions and sink this important information into your head as you are taking a risk play with fire.

 

DECIDE NOW! IT’S YOUR DECISION AND. YOUR OWN RISK AND RESPONSIBILITY

 

On the other hand fire eating is dynamic, exciting and spectacular, we want you to have fun and hopefully you will become a great and responsible fire eater performer, but please take this instructional DVD seriously, you have the secret to learn this great ancient art, be responsible, be smart and stay SAFE.

 

Steve Hart & Brendan Montanner

 

IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUES

• Please at all times keep this DVD away from children and teenagers under the age of Eighteen (18).

• Keep all flammable fuels and liquids in a high and cool place.

• Keep all fuels away from toddlers and children.

• Do not smoke around fuel or liquid.

• If fuel or liquid is swallowed drink a full glass of milk then seek medical help.

• If fuel or liquid gets into eyes, wash with cool running water and dry with a clean towel.

• When practicing with fire please wipe all residue or liquid off the floor and dry with a dry cloth. As it could be slippery and dangerous if walked upon.

 

Please be careful and enjoy the art of fire eating.

 

COMMON SENSE

Anyone who includes fire in a performance has a duty not only to himself, but to his audience, and the other acts in his profession.

 

One mistake, caused by lack of technique or concentration, or by sheer carelessness – the latter being quite unforgivable – can keep other performers out of employment, and worse still can endanger the performer, and the lives of other people.

 

In other words Fire Eating is NOT for the INEXPERIENCED or the IMMATURE person, be he 16 or 60.

 

You have got to know what you are doing to do, and be one hundred percent thorough in your preparation beforehand, as well as master of the situation while you are performing.

 

Fire Eating is dangerous. Find a qualified fie arts instructor to teach you the art of fire eating.

 

Never attempt to fire eat under the influence of any drug, especially alcohol. Check your fire eating equipment before use to ensure it is free from danger. First practice the motions of fire eating with an unlit skewer. It is important to feel ‘comfortable’ with fire before attempting live fire-eating stunts. ‘Get to know’ your flame and become familiar with the way it burns before practicing fire eating stunts with a live flame.

 

Finding a good location…

 

The best spot for fire eating is in a high ceiling area free from overhanging flammable objects that is well ventilated, but without any noticeable breeze. If you are fire eating outdoors, make sure you are in a space that is resistant to wind, and in particular, changes in wind direction.

 

Unpredictable wind conditions are a major cause of fire eating burns.

 

Heat goes up…

Remember that! The biggest key to not burning yourself while fire eating or performing other localised fire stunts is that heat rises, and that under the flame is a smart place to be.

 

Breathing…

It is important to have excellent breath control while fire eating. It is imperative that you NEVER inhale while a flame is in your mouth. This can cause serious burns and poisoning by ingestion of harmful vapours. To prepare your breathing, practice simple breath control by breathing in slowly for 10 counts, holding for 10 counts, then exhaling slowly for another 10 counts. NEVER attempt fire eating while puffed or out of breath. Always be calm, focussed, and in control of your breathing. If you sense you are running out of breath while fire eating, remove the torch IMMEDIATELY.

 

What’s burning???

The fuel, of course! Which is why choice of fire eating fuel is so important. The role of the wick is to act like a sponge in which to soak up the fuel that will do the burning. Makeshift wicks or those constructed with cotton or cotton wool will deteriorate after just a few uses and may actually begin to burn if not extinguished before the fuel has evaporated out. Always change your cotton wad before your performance.

 

Alcohol…

Alcohol induces recklessness, impairs reaction times, and reduces muscle control. To breath fire safely requires cares awareness, good timing and good control of your breathing and lips.

IMPORTANT

 

• Never blow fire if the wind is too strong and never blow against the wind at anytime, always blow with the current of the wind.

 

Fuels – Never ever use SHELLITE, or LIGHT FLUID, or PETROL for the blow out as it is VERY HIGHLY flammable and could simply run back along the stream of vapour and burn your face, clothing or hair. I would strongly insist in Fire Sol or Parraffin lamp oil or kerosene and can be purchased at any hardware store.

 

DO NOT USE SHELL LITE, LIGHTER FLUID, PETROL FOR BLOW OUT

 

You will certainly pay the price WHEN DEALING WITH FIRE

 

Always be careful where people are standing when you are performing, make sure they are at least 10 feet away from you. Watch out for wandering toddlers and children as they might become excited and run towards you, watch out and be extra careful when performing in smaller venues, keep a careful eye on people standing close to your torches, and extra careful when performing in crowded night-clubs, restaurants, and street festival parades.

 

STAGE CURTAINS

 

• Always be extra careful where you spray your fuel of flame.

 

• If you are performing on a stage, please keep clear of curtains as they could catch a light in seconds if not careful.

 

• Stay a good distance away from the audience and do not spray towards the audience.

 

AIR C0NDITIONING

 

• Check for air conditioning and where the current of air is blowing as some club stages have air conditioning blowing down or across the stage, this is also caused by doors opened aside of stage, drafts are common especially in theatres, so check before you perform to have all doors closed for your performance.

 

TRAVELLING WITH FIRE FUEL

 

• Carry fuel in a proper “approved” fuel tin can and mark it clearly. (Fire – eating fuel DANGER).

 

• Always keep closed and sealed and away from children and toddlers.

 

AIRCRAFTS

 

• Never ever think about carrying fuel on aircrafts as there are heavy fines and penalties even imprisonment.

 

• If travelling interstate or overseas arrange with client to have fuel at their end ready for your performance.

 

FIRE EXSTINGUISHERS

 

• Always carry a small fire extinguisher/fire blanket and always especially a first aid kit containing bandages and burn cream. Keep at side of stage or close to where you are performing.

 

You can purchase the items in any major shopping store, car auto shop or hardware store.

 

WHEN FINISHED PERFORMING

 

Pour your liquid fuel back into a fuel container.

 

Do not pour fuel into a sink or toilet bowl as sometimes back stage people smoke and throw their cigarette butts into the toile bowls, this could start a fire. As for people sitting on the toilet they would be sitting on a time bomb if they dropped their cigarette into the bowl. Have common sense and dispose of your fire fuel into a container, close tightly and put away.

 

Do not leave any residue on the stage floor, wipe up as it could be slippery and dangerous, caution other acts on after you, especially dancers.

 

VENUES

If you are performing at a venue please talk to management as they would need to isolate fire alarms or smoke detectors before you perform, as most venues are very strict with fire regulations.

 

A client may call you for your performance at their special event or function, please advise them to contact the venue in which the function will be held and talk to management about the fire performance. You would not want to turn up at a function and be told by security that you are not able to perform with fire, some venues are okay and can isolate the fire alarms within 20 to 30 minutes, other venues can range from 1 to 2 days notice as they need to consult with management or security to isolate the alarms and sprinklers.

I have seen and heard of some instances where fire performers, rock bands with smoke machines have not told management, as fire alarms being set off and fire brigades arriving at the venue.

 

WHO HAS TO PAY THE FIRE BRIGADE BILL?

 

YOU – $500 to $1500

 

So please be careful and be one step ahead.

 

FIRE TORCHES

 

Always carry two to four torches, each torch can last up to three minutes, when finished pick up a new fresh torch. This is good and safe advice for podium fire-eaters as you are usually on stage for one or two dance numbers, that’s around six minutes, a torch could wear out and the cotton wad could fall apart or smoulder, it is safer not to dip a smouldering torch into a bowl of fuel as it could set alight. The best way and absolutely the safest way is to place the old torches down and replace with one or two fresh torches.

 

THE BOWL OF FUEL

 

The bowl of fuel needs to be heavy duty metal, do not use plastic bowls as liquid can burn through. I would strongly recommend a heavy duty chrome champagne bucket and place the tin of fluid into the champagne bucket. You can purchase a champagne bucket at any kitchen or food catering product store. Also a chrome champagne bucket stand in which you can place the bucket into. This looks very professional, looks great on stage and is much safer than having the bowl on the floor, as you can trip over your bucket and spill the fuel all over the stage. When performing fire-eating, always stay 5 feet away from the bowl and especially when performing the blow out. The bowl should be well behind you.

 

DO NOT HAVE THE BOWL IN FRONT OF YOU WHEN PERFORMING THE BLOW OUT.

 

DO NOT light up your torch above the bowl of liquid dip, shake, then walk 5 feet away from the bowl then ignite the torch.

 

CONCLUSION:

 

Please have this safety information booklet always, as it will help and guide you to succeed as being a responsible, SAFE, SMART and SPECTACULAR Fire Performer.

 

BURNS: First aid

 

To distinguish a minor burn from a serious burn, the first step is to determine the degree and the extent of damage to body tissues. The three classifications of first-degree burn, second-degree burn and third-degree burn will help you determine emergency care.

 

First-degree burn

 

The least serious burns are those in which only the outer layer of skin (epidermis) is burned. The skin is usually red, with a swelling and pain sometimes present. The outer layer of skin hasn’t been burned through. Treat a first-degree burn as a minor burn unless it involves substantial portions of the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or a major joint.

 

Second-degree burn

 

When the first layer of skin has been burned through and the second layer of skin (dermis) also is burned, the injury is termed a second-degree burn. Blisters develop and the skin takes on intensely reddened, splotchy appearance. Second-degree burns produce severe pain and swelling.

 

If the second-degree burn is no larger than 2 to 3 inches in diameter, treat it as a minor burn. If the burned area is larger of it the burn is on the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or over a major joint, get medical help immediately.

 

For minor burns, including second-degree burns limited to an area no larger than 2 to 3 inches in diameter, take the following action:

 

• Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cold running water for at least 5 minutes, or until the pain subsides. If this is impractical, immerse the burn in cold water or cool it with cold compresses. Cooling the burn reduces swelling by conducting heat away from the skin. Don’t put ice on the burn.

 

• Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Don’t use fluffy cotton, which may irritate the skin. Wrap the gauze loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin. Bandaging keeps air off the burned skin, reduces pain and protects blistered skin.

 

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Never give aspirin to children or teenagers.

 

Minor burns usually heal without further treatment. They may heal with pigment changes, meaning the healed area may be a different colour from the surrounding skin. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, fever, swelling or oozing. If infection develops, seek medical help. Avoid re-injuring or tanning if the burns are less than a year old – doing so may cause more extensive pigmentation changes. Use sunscreen on the area for at least a year.

 

Caution

 

• Don’t use ice. Putting ice directly on a burn can cause frostbite, further damaging your skin.

 

• Don’t break blisters. Broken blisters are vulnerable to infection.

 

STEVE HART and BRENDAN MONTANNER www.MagicianAustralia.com.au would like to personally thank GERALD TAYLOR for his helpful advice and his generosity and guidance in the making of this Fire Eating Teaching DVD

 

 

How to Survive in the Woods

Ever been on a hike admiring the wild flowers, gazing up at the tips of the trees, and suddenly found yourself completely alone and lost? What would happen to you if you couldn’t find your way back to safety? While being lost in the woods can be a frightening experience, surviving alone in the wild is generally a matter of common sense, patience, and wisely using the gifts that nature provides. All you need to survive for a few days is shelter, warmth, water, and food.

Steps

Preparing

1. Plan ahead. Don’t just trek off into the wilderness, do some research first. There are a lot of resources regarding and in libraries, but warning: many of the techniques used in these manuals are sometimes wrong or incomplete. One of the most accurate books about this subject is “Bushcraft – Outdoor Skills and Wilderness Survival” by Mors Kochanski. Educate yourself about the flora and fauna of the area you are exploring. Knowledge of the local plants and animals can save your life! Also, see if you need any medication or injections.

2. Make sure someone knows where you are going every time you go into the wilderness, and how long you intend to be gone. That way someone will realize that you are missing, quickly help your friends alert rescuers, and be able to tell them where to start looking for you. Note: this is like a ‘flight plan’ which pilots file before leaving. Similarly, don’t forget to call the person(s) you notified to tell them when you are back. Like “the boy who cried wolf” a false alarm wastes rescue resources and may be costly (some communities have begun to bill the parties responsible).

3. Be prepared. Basic survival tools such as a knife, a magnesium stone, some matches, some cord, a whistle, a “space blanket”, signaling mirror, etc. can mean the difference between life and death. Even if you are only out on a day hike, be sure to bring the essentials. Having all this equipment is nothing if you cannot use it properly. Make sure to practice many times in a safe environment before venturing into the wilderness. Also, know how to catch and cook fish and game if the need arises.

4. Cell phone with spare battery or a portable CB radio can be your best, quickest means of rescue if you are truly lost or injured. A cell signal may only be obtainable from a hill or tree – but be safe if contemplating a climb. Serious hikers may even consider investing in a personal locator beacon for extended, precarious, or very remote, treks.

During the situation

1. Don’t panic. Panic is more dangerous than almost anything else, because it interferes with the operation of your single best, most useful and versatile survival tool: your mind. The moment you realize that you are lost, before you do anything else, stop. Take a deep breath and stay calm. Even if you’re hanging from a rope halfway down a mountainside with a broken leg, remind yourself that people have survived exactly this situation.

2. Stand still and look around carefully! Wherever you are will become your “point zero.” Find a way to mark it using a spare piece of clothing, a pile of rocks, a sheet of paper, or anything else easily visible from a distance.

3. Stay in one place, and you not only increase your chances of being found, you also increase your ability to survive by reducing the energy your body expends and the amount of water and food you will need. Hunker down and stay put. Chances are that someone will be looking for you, especially if you let someone know your plans, (see above).

4. Signal your location to maximize the odds that someone finds you. Make noise by whistling, shouting, singing, or banging rocks together. If you can, mark your location in such a way that it’s visible from the air. If you’re in a mountain meadow, make three piles of dark leaves or branches in a triangle. In sandy areas, make a large triangle in the sand. In a forest, you might want to prepare three small fires ready to ignite at a moment’s notice, with heaps of wet leaves nearby in order to make smoke. Three of anything in the wilderness is a standard distress signal.

5. Start scouting your area, carefully keeping track of your location. Be sure you can always find your way back to your “point zero” as you search for water, shelter, or your way home.

6. Find or create shelter. Without adequate shelter, you will be fully exposed to the elements and will risk hypothermia or heatstroke, depending on the weather. If you are not properly dressed for the conditions, finding shelter is all the more important. Luckily, the woods are filled with tools and resources to make both shelters and fires (for warmth, safety, and signaling purposes). Here are some things you can use:

* Look for a fallen or leaning tree. You can build a lean-to by stacking branches alongside a fallen tree, then over the branches with brush, palm fronds, or other plants.

* Use brush or green branches (boughs) from trees to repel water, block wind, keep out snow, or create shade. Close in your shelter on as many sides as possible.

* Caves can be great, but be sure the cave is not already occupied by bears, large cats, snakes or other unfriendly animals; they know caves are good too, and they’ve been looking for good shelter for longer than you have. Also make sure it’s not going to collapse on you- this reduces your chances of survival considerably.

7. Find a good source of water. In a survival situation, you can last up to three days without water, but by the end of the second day you’re not going to be in very good shape; find water before then.

* The best source of water is a spring, but the chances of finding one are slim. A running stream is your next best bet; the movement of the water reduces sediment. Be advised that drinking water from streams can lead to some sicknesses, but when you’re in a life-or-death situation, the risk of illness is a secondary consideration.

* Or use jacket sleeves to tie around your ankles when it’s morning, and walk in the grass to get dew on the sleeves, then suck the moisture out of the fabric.

8. Purify your water. A crude method of water purification is to take your handy pot and heat the water. For this to effectively kill bacteria, it must be at a rolling boil for at least three minutes[1].

9. Build a fire. Build a good sized fire, one with sufficient coals to stay hot for many hours, and make sure that you have plenty of extra dry wood.

* A good rule of thumb is to gather wood until you have enough to last the night, then gather three more piles of the same size, and you might have enough to get through the night.

* In the wilderness you should have access to dry wood in the understory of the forest. You can also use bark or dried dung. If you build a fire that is hot enough, you can also burn green wood, brush, or tree boughs to make a signaling fire (one that makes a lot of smoke).

* The best wood for maintaining a fire is dead wood that you pull off a standing tree. Regardless of what type of woods you are in, there will certainly be some dry wood available. Remember that a small fire is easier to keep burning than a big fire, though, because it requires less fuel. Once you have sufficient embers, keep the fire to a manageable size so you don’t spend too much time looking for fuel.

* Find tinder (small material, such as dry grass, feathers or bark shavings, that burns easily). When burned, Tinder creates alot of smoke, that alerts people to your location.

* Start the fire. You can usually use the energy from the sun to start a fire with a magnifying glass, a lens from your glasses, a piece of broken glass, a cover to a watch or compass, or other clear, light-intensifying objects. It is very difficult to start a fire by friction; your best bet is to carry a variety of fire-starting implements.

10. Find safe food. Know that most healthy adults can survive up to three weeks without food unless it’s cold.[2] It’s better to be hungry and healthy than ill. Make sure that you know food is safe before eating it. If there is anything that will lessen your ability to survive, it is being both lost and deathly ill. Starvation won’t be a big problem.

* Don’t be afraid to eat insects and other bugs. While it may be disgusting to eat a few grasshoppers, they do provide useful nutrition. All insects should be cooked as they can harbor parasites that can kill you. Do not eat any caterpillars or brightly colored insects, as these can poison you. Do not eat any insect that can bite or sting you, such as bees and scorpions. Remember if it has six legs or less, it’s most likely ok to eat. Remove the legs, head and wings of any insect before eating.

* If you are near water, fish are a good choice. The only problem is they are hard to catch. Minnows can be eaten whole. Bigger fish will have to be cooked.

* Berries are good to eat. There is a color test to berries that can help you find what is edible. White and yellow berries are poisonous 90% of the time. Blue and black berries are okay to eat 90% of the time. Red berries are a 50-50 shot. Aggregate berries (Bumpy ones like blackberries and raspberries ) are okay to eat 100% of the time, with the only exception being a white berry that grows in Alaska.

Tips

* Tie bright clothing (jackets, bandannas, and even underwear) to the top of a tree to attract attention.

* If you’re stuck without a compass, you can orient yourself by taking your watch, aligning the hour hand with the sun, then placing a blade of grass in between the hour hand and the 12 on your watch. The direction the blade of grass is pointing is South. This works in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, reverse the role of the the hour-hand and 12, and the blade of grass will be pointing North. Near the equator, take note where the sun rises and sets, the sun rises from the east and sets on the west.

* You can survive several weeks without food, but only few days without water, and perhaps only hours without shelter. Keep your priorities straight.

* If you’re not absolutely sure where you are and how to get back to familiar territory, don’t proclaim, “I think it’s this way.” The more you move once you realize you’re lost, the worse your chances are of finding your way back.

* Consider taking a staff or walking stick with you. If you don’t have one, any staff-sized stick will do. The little mark it makes in the dirt will help you retrace your steps better than Hansel and Gretel.

* It is safer not to go into the wilderness alone.

* One of the most important survival tools is something that most people never consider: a tin cup. Without a tin cup it is difficult to cook many foods.

* A firearm has always been an essential tool of the woods. A .22 rifle or pistol can serve as a means of obtaining food, self-protection from humans or animals and a signaling device. The cartridges can also be used for fire-starting.

* Another under rated but important item for a survival pack is a large lightweight trash bag. They pack down small, but can be used to carry water from a stream, can be wrapped around a leafy branch end to trap the water vapor given off from the leaves, and can be used as an emergency poncho in wet or cold weather after cutting a hole for head and arms. Stuffing your makeshift poncho with extra leaves or grass can also give additional insulation when cold.

* Don’t rely upon modern technology like cell phones, GPS units, or radios to save you if you are lost. Take one with you if it’s available. But remember that these items are not foolproof; have a backup plan.

* An important acronym to remember is “STOP” which stands for stop, think, observe, and plan.

* Whenever you go out in the wilderness, (for example, going on a hike), bring a whistle. 1 blow means “I’m lost”, 2 blows means “I’m coming” (if you hear someone else blow a whistle), and 3 blows means “This is an emergency” (if you are hurt).

* At night, there is a greater risk of freezing to death. Stay dry. Bundle up. Get yourself off the ground. Make a “bed” of layers of branches, leaves, twigs, whatever is there, and cover yourself with the same stuff. To stay warm at night, heat rocks in the fire and then bury them. Sleep on top of the buried rocks. Make sure you bury them deep enough or you will burn yourself.

* If you happen to have a reflective object on you (a mirror, a belt buckle, whatever), use it as a signal by facing it towards the sun.

* If planning an extended trip into difficult or unfamiliar terrain, it is always a good idea to have a backup plan. Detailed maps/trail guides, extra food and water, and signaling devices such as a mirror, flare, or even (depending on the length and location of the trip) a satellite beacon (PLB) could save your life.

* Rain, snow, or dew can be a good source of clean water. You can use anything from a cup to a piece of waterproof cloth to a large leaf to collect precipitation.

* If you cannot stay where you are until someone finds you, do not just pick a direction and start walking, even if you have a means of ensuring that you continue to go that direction. Instead, try to go either uphill or downhill. Going uphill offers a good chance that you will find a vantage point, which can help you get your bearings. If you go downhill, you will probably find water which you can follow downstream; in many cases, this will lead you to civilization. But don’t follow water downstream at night or in fog as it may go off a cliff.

* Never, ever go into the woods without a compass. Note which direction you enter the woods from, say, a straight road or trail and if you get disoriented just head back in the opposite direction from which you entered. If you don’t have one, use or learn your cardinal directions from the stars and the positions of the sun and moon.

* Shoe/Boot laces make good rope in an emergency situation, but remember once they’re removed, walking will become more difficult.

* Shirt sleeves can be cut off and used as bandages if necessary. Remember to only tie them around a wound so that they are still loose enough to stick one or two fingers between the bandage and the appendage/body.

* A belt can also be used to hold a bandage in place (not too tightly!), as an equipment strap, or as a snare.

* The sleeves of a waterproof jacket can be used to hold water by tying one end of them.

* If you want to fish, you can make a fishing rod out of a stick about 2 meters (6 feet) long and 1-3 inches thick (just bring your own fishing hooks). Peel the bark off the stick and, with a knife or axe, cut a notch about 2-3 inches from the top of the rod. Tie one end of any string or cord placed in the notch, then tie the hook on the other end of the string or cord. Also, you can try to bait the hook with a small piece of meat, an insect, or any other thing you want to try to use as bait.

* Your primary survival knife should be a fixed blade with a solid, sturdy handle; a folding knife should only be used as a back-up, although it is better than nothing.

Warnings

* Keep your fire contained! Ensure that there is no combustible material underneath your fireplace and enclose it completely with rocks or a berm made of sand. Put your fire out with copious amounts of water: saturate it, so that there is no possibility of even the tiniest spark remaining. You should be able to touch the extinguished coals with your bare hand. It’s one thing to be lost in the woods, but quite another to be lost and surrounded by a forest fire caused by your own negligence.

* If you encounter snakes, leave them alone. Snakes bite because they are hungry or because they are threatened. We are too big to be seen as prey to most snakes; they do not regard humans as food. Stand still and the snake will go away. Attack it and it will retaliate. If one curls up in your kit, use a long stick to gently prod it away. If it comes in your direction, stand still. It doesn’t know that you are causing its discomfort and if you do not jump around, it will probably not even notice you. There are several ways to identify venomous snakes, but it is best to treat every snake cautiously unless you can make a positive identification. In a survival situation, it is possible to eat snake. If you don’t know whether a snake is venomous or not, but would like to eat it, a good rule of thumb is to cut off the head, and then cut the same distance back from that point down the body. This will remove the venom glands, if there are any. Remember, though, that it is against federal law to kill certain endangered species of snakes, and it is against some state laws to kill any snake (snakes help control vermin and insect levels).

* Make sure that, if you heat rocks for warmth, that they are not wet. When heating them in the fire, they will explode as the water inside the cracks turn to vapor. Keep in mind that this might also be a concern when in a cave–too much heat on overhanging or adjacent rocks can cause explosions or shifting of your shelter.

* Never travel directly in a river because water absorbs your heat much more than air, which can lead to hypothermia.

* Drinking your own urine as a source of water is not recommended.[3]

Things You’ll Need

These are things that are very hard to make or that you won’t find in the woods.

* Whistle with a compass in it (these are sold on a necklace of cord sometimes, and you can use the cord, too, if you need it)

* Water container

* Fire starters – Matches, Lighter, Flint/Magnesiumn & Steel, Magnifying glass or lens(sometimes on the cord of a compass)

* Lint or fluff (it’s weightless and good tinder)

* Pot to boil water/cook food

* Universal tool/Swiss Army Knife

* Map of area

* Fishing hooks and a good quantity of fishing line. Coil it up and stow in a pocket. The hooks are good if you want to fish, but can come in handy for other purposes, too, and they weigh almost nothing. Stick them and the wire into your wallet and put it in your back pocket.

* Three or four protein bars, or small portions of trail mix

* Space blanket or bivvy bag (both high visibility of reflective)

* Basic first aid kit

* Small water bottles(unopened until you get lost)

* At least a 5 inch pocket knife

Optional Items

* water purifying tablets

* spare clothes

* magnifying glass (for fire)

* compass

* cotton balls in a bag with Vaseline on them (This is not only for chapped lips, but as an ointment for cuts and sunburn relief. Most importantly, when you tear the cotton balls, and mix them with the Vaseline, the result is very flammable, which will burn smoothly and for a long duration. This is great for making torches and starting fires. Do not use on burns!)

* Rope/string

* Sewing kit/floss(useful for repairs and fishing line)

Going on an extended camping trip is the best way to experience the outdoors. But while camping trips can be a lot of fun, they are also potentially dangerous. You’re away from civilization and must learn to fend for yourself. To ensure that you have the best camping experience possible, make sure to bring the following ten essential camping tools.

Flashlight

It gets dark out in the wilderness. And we mean Really Dark. When you go camping, always make sure to have a flashlight available. Buy a headlamp if you can, as these leave you hands free to work. Keep extra bulbs and batteries handy.

Water bottle

You can live weeks without food, but only days without water. Keep enough water to last you your entire trip and invest in a water purification kit in case of emergencies.

Fire Starters

When you’re in need a fire, it’s good to have a reliable fire starter that won’t be affected by weather. Which is why it’s worth your while to invest in waterproof matches; they’ll keep you warm and safe from the cold at night regardless of the weather.

First Aid Kit

First aid kits are crucial to have when you’re out camping, away from hospitals and emergency rescue crews. Include in your kit a good number of band-aids, sterilized gauze, gauze adhesive, pen or pencil and paper, scissors, antiseptic, elastic bandages, and a CPR mouth barrier device.

Self-Rescue Aids

A rescue mirror and a rescue whistle should form a part of every camper’s pack. In an emergency situation, you can scream for help all you want, but your voice won’t carry far and you’ll run out of it quickly. A whistle, on the other hand, carries further and is louder. Plus, you can whistle for a lot longer than you can yell. Rescue mirrors are important in case you need to signal an overhead plane.

Non-perishable foods

Power bars and MRE’s are key for long camping trips involving heavy hiking. Non-perishables will save you time and weight, while giving you all the calories you need.

Rope

Rope is useful for building shelters and for emergency rescue scenarios. There are literally thousands of ways you might use a rope, and you never know when you’ll need it or when it would be nice to have. Learn a few basic knots, like the bowline and the square knot.

Compass

No digital map is going to replace the durability and reliability of a good old fashioned compass. Keep one with you at all times when camping.

Pocketknife

Pocketknives and other leatherman tools are good for a wide variety of tasks. Always cut away from yourself and keep your blade well sharpened.

Appropriate clothes

Dress in layers of appropriate clothes. Weather can change drastically and quickly when you’re out in the wilderness.

Camping is fun and can be a great way of relaxing and bonding with family and friends, it’s also a great way to meet new like minded people but while it’s fun we still have to think safety.

If your going camping on your own make sure you tell people where you are going and give them the exact location of where you are staying, also think about taking a map and compass with you if your out in the wild.

Sometimes the reason for people going camping is to get away from the rat race for some peace and quiet but make sure you take some kind of communication device you with like a mobile phone, it would also be a good idea to take some two-way radios with you so you can communicate with friends or loved ones if you or they happen to get lost. Packing a GPS device with you is a great idea as well, but don’t forget the good old map and compass as a back up solution.

If you plan on hiking your way to a campsite then make sure everyone is in good health, if you have young children then arrange to get them to your camping area before you go, the same goes for older people as taking long walks over rugged terrain may make them tired or aggravate health problems.Muggings and sexual assaults can happen and have no doubt happened in the past when people have been camping so make sure you stick together, safety in numbers. If you have been the victim of a crime then make sure you report it to the police and/or campsite warden right away.

Be aware of your surroundings. If your camping out in a woodland area make sure you tell the kids not to go off on their own, look out for any potentially dangerous areas like lakes, ridges and marshes, and never approach wild animals. Also never eat anything you find on the plants and trees unless you are absolutely 110% sure you know what it is you are eating, and never drink water from lakes or rivers.

Remember to check the weather forecast before you set off so you know roughly what kind of clothes to pack, if it’s cold and rainy you want to wrap up warm so you don’t become ill.

If you or anyone you are camping with smokes then make sure the cigarette is put out properly and never throw it down still lit, you could put water on it or stub out it in sand (as long as it’s not part of a kids play area).

Take a first aid kit with you, if you are unsure what to take in this then visit your local outdoors shop and tell them where you are going, most first aid packs contain the basics. If your still in doubt visit your local GP and ask there.

If you need to see in the dark make sure you use a torch and never use a candle because hot wax may drip on you or it may catch fire, your tent is highly flammable a long with your clothes, sleeping bag and other material. In case of a fire get everyone out quickly but calmly and call the fire service as quick as you can. Try to give an exact location to the fire rescue crew so they can get to you quickly, if you do not know your exact location then tell them of any landmarks, pubs, farms, or nearby roads. You should also alert any campers near you in case the fire spreads, and remember, never smoke in a tent.

When setting up your tent make sure you keep it at least 6 meters away from your neighbours because you do not want to stumble over guy ropes in the night and hurt yourself.

Never have a campfire near your tent or inside your tent, fire can easily spread and get out of control.

Make sure you keep any valuable items on you and do not leave them in the tent, slash and grab theft can occur where the thief will cut through your tent with a sharp object such as a knife and steal anything they see as worth taking.

You may want to put a padlock on your zip to stop anyone looking inside your tent but just beware that to a thief having a lock on your tent might make them think you have something worth taking inside.

If you find a stranger inside your tent do not attempt to drag the person out by force and do not start arguing, alert a campsite warden or tell someone near by.

If your travelling in a caravan make sure you install a fire alarm and check that it works and never block any air vents. When you cook never leave fat pans unattended and keep matches and lighters away from children, have a fire extinguisher next to the main exit.

If there is a smoker in the caravan make sure they put the cigarette out in a metal ashtray and never use any paper cups or paper plates.

Remember to never leave any gas bottles in side the caravan and if you suspect a gas leak never smoke or use a lighter/matches, open up all doors and windows and make sure you turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve. Never fit any gas appliances yourself, make sure you get a Corgi Registered installer to do it for you. To find a registered installer visit the Trust Corgi website.

Make sure that when you tow your caravan it doesn’t present any danger on the road. For more information check the NTTA Guide To Safe & Legal Towing.

When you leave your caravan unattended make sure you close all the windows and lock the doors. If you have any bikes and toys makes sure you chain them up before leaving or even put them in the caravan before you go out.

We all know that trained K-9 dogs help police forces track and apprehend criminal offenders often. We also know that there are specially trained drug dogs that aid in the process of finding illegal substances at airports, shipyards, and even residential areas. There are also dogs that are specifically trained as arson dogs.

So, what exactly is an arson dog, and what do they do? Arson dogs are specially trained K-9’s in the area of accelerant detection. When a fire occurs, the police will arrive and investigate the scene. If the fire seems suspicious, they will bring in the arson K-9 and their handler. The dog is trained specifically to sniff out miniscule traces of various fire accelerants that could have possibly started the fire.

These dogs undergo a rigorous training program, called the Arson Dog Program, and each dog is assigned a policeman handler. The handler works with their dog, and the duo certainly makes an authoritative team. Not only is the handler a policeman in the fore, they too are specially trained to investigate fire scenes for the possibility of investigating an act of arson.

As far as training goes, the Arson Dog Program (sponsored by a popular insurance agency) was founded in 1993. The dogs in this program are Labrador Retrievers, and they are trained rigorously for five weeks and are certified as arson dogs upon graduation. This particular program uses Labrador Retrievers because their sense of smell works well with recognizing fire accelerants, in addition to having a superior ability to differentiate between certain scents. They also have a friendly sand sweet disposition, which aids in easier training (not to mention almost everyone loves a Retriever!). Since the founding of this program, over two hundred arson dog teams have successfully completed the training, and they are now serving in approximately forty-one states and the District of Columbia in the United States.

Though people may not think that arson is a common crime, there is certainly a need for these specially trained and expert law enforcement teams. Each year, an estimated couple billion dollars worth of property damages, not to mention the loss of hundreds of human lives, is attributed to the terrible crime of arson. Because of this, arson dogs have been working hard to catch and apprehend the felons every day.

These K-9 accelerant detection teams on police forces are as close as family; most of these K-9 dogs actually live with the handler’s family in the home when they are off work. This closeness not only companionship for both on the team, it also aids in efforts to keep the relationship between the handler and K-9 close.

These fire accelerant detection teams work tirelessly, 24/7, in order to chase to apprehend arsonists. Because so many lives and money is lost each year due to the terrible crime of arson, programs have been established that are specifically designed to train arson dogs. These dogs are heroes in every sense of the word, and without them, many criminals would run free each year.