ADVENTURE IN LIFE - ***Survival Techniques-2***

4-Mountain Survival Guide

Always check local avalanche watches: the biggest threat to skiers is from avalanches. When in an avalanche risk area, carry a radio beacon or distress flare – it's the best way to ensure you are found. Only 50% of avalanche victims who are completely buried by snow are recovered alive.

If you are alone and need to get down the mountain then read the snow. Push a ski pole deep into the snow. You are looking for weak layers of snow that lie underneath compacted layers. If the ski pole suddenly gives then you've hit a weak layer and skiing here is best avoided. If constant pressure is needed to push the pole in, you are probably safe.

Just as rivers and streams are always a good way out of wilderness, glaciers are a good way out of mountains. If you follow them down they will lead you to the bottom.

If you are threatened by large mammals and you don't have any weapons, then build a fire at night – they won't like it. If you are caught out, then surprise is your best defense. Sit quietly until they are approaching, then make a sudden commotion. Shout, flap your arms, use anything you can find to make a noise.

5-Desert Survival Guide

If you are lost in desert heat, your main aim will be to keep cool. The biggest desert killers are heatstroke and dehydration, which can come on very quickly.

Keep your head cool at all costs, even if it means peeing on your hat. You shouldn't go into a desert without a hat, but if you are caught short, make one from another piece of clothing. Wear light-coloured clothing in the desert.

The Moab Desert contains two major rivers – the Colorado and the Green. Finding one of them is the key to getting out. Following a river will eventually lead to civilization. Plants, insects and birds need water, so signs of life like these indicate a water source nearby.

Canyons provide shade and might contain water sources that could lead to bigger rivers. Find a canyon that runs downhill – it is a good sign that water is nearby since water runs downhill.

Only drink running water. Stagnant water is likely to be contaminated with dead animals and other debris, which could give you diarrhea that could finish you off altogether.