The 7 Ps:
Prior
Proper
Planning
Prevents
P_ss
Poor
Performance
The key vowel missing is? "I." I am responsible for what I do or fail to do.
What are the 10 ESSENTIALS? It is a list of the most important items to have with you BEFORE you start trekking off into the wilderness by yourself or with a party. Some people can shortcut this list and get away with it. Others pay the ultimate price with their lives.
1. Navigation
Map, compass, global positioning system (GPS)
2. Hydration
Water, container, filter, iodine tablets
3. Nutrition
Food and extra food (i.e., energy bars)
4. Sun Protection
Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, hat, lip balm with SPF
5. Insulation
Hat, gloves, lightweight jacket, extra layers, balaclava
6. Warmth
Lighter, matches, firestarter, stove and fuel
7. Illumination
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
8. First Aid
Bandages, knife, medicine, duct tape, zip ties
9. Shelter
Emergency blanket or shelter (bivy)
10. Communication
Whistle, signal mirror, cellphone (not a reliable means of communication if no signal)
This list is on all REI backpacks. There may be variations to this list, but I believe this one covers them all.
And the most "essential" tool?
What is on your shoulders and between your ears!
Whenever you are in the wilderness, keep in mind you are not welcome there. Yes, you can come and go as you please, but be prepared for emergencies. Your stay can and may be prolonged due to unforeseen dangers. And if you are not prepared, you can die. Plain and simple.
Before you venture into the wilderness, leave your itinerary and expected date of return with a family member or friend.
In an EMERGENCY
STOP - DON'T PANIC
Stop - take a deep breath
Think - Brain is the most important asset
Observe - Assess surroundings
Plan - Priortize immediate needs
PRIORITIES
Medical care
Shelter and fire
Signaling and communication
Sustenance
EMERGENCY SIGNALS
Signal mirror
Whistle - 3 blasts
Fire - 3 in a triangle
Smoke
Ground-to-air signals (1 meter wide by 6 meters long)
V - Require assistance
X - Require MEDICAL assistance
N - No or Negative
Y - Yes or Affirmative
Arrows - Proceed in this direction
EDIBILITY RULE MEMORY TOOL
If it's BLUE it's good for you
If it's RED use your head
If it's WHITE do not bite
These are just my opinions and views from years of learning from experienced hikers.
