How to survive in the wilderness

Photo by Ann Scott

  I can’t lie and say that our recent vacation to Colorado was full of high-mountain adventure.
  Whether it was the thin air of high altitude or my lack of physical fitness, we didn't venture more than a mile or so beyond the well-driven path into the Rocky Mountains.
  We did see a black bear, but not in the deep woods. He was loping past the patio at a restaurant where we were having lunch.
  Nonetheless, the beauty of the mountain west was stunning. And, compared with the urban surroundings of much of southern Wisconsin, we did experience “getting away from it all.”
  I found a treasure in a small book shop called the Mossy Oak Trail Guide. It’s a combination outdoors guidebook and daily Bible devotional.
  The introduction was titled “Survival Philosophy,” which contained these tips for wilderness survival, from the Colorado Department of Natural Resources:

• Always maintain a positive attitude, reaffirming to yourself you will survive.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
• Take someone with you. Never go alone.
• Have a plan, and stick to it. Stay put if you are lost or stranded unless it becomes evident that self-rescue is the only option.
• Always carry a survival kit and first aid kit, and know how to use them.
• Dress for the weather, but be prepared for changes. 
• Always carry raingear. Protection from the elements must be your priority.
• Practice S.T.O.P.:

    S—Sit down and stay put until the fear and rush of emotions has subsided.

    T—Think through your situation. What do you have available? What needs to be done?

    O—Observe your surroundings. Where should you stay? Will someone know you are missing? How long before you will be missed? 

    P—Plan your action. Priorities might be: shelter, fire, signal, water, or find your way out to safety.

• Never quit!

It seems those tips are as spiritual as they are practical. How might you apply those survival tactics to your daily life?