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Desert Survival

Desert Survival

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How to survive in no water environments where there is nothing but sand and sun.

Survival Desert

I've spent years running around the Mojave desert, but it's not just sand and sun. Most desert environments have some kind of plants that thrive in the heat and utilize every drop of moisture that comes through. Most plants will actually do most of their work at night instead of the daytime. If you happen to find yourself in a hot dry desert...first off..slap yourself for being so stupid. Then get on with survival. Move at night to avoid excess dehydration, keep cool but protected from the sun, learn beforehand what plants store water, such as the barrel cactus and the yucca root. Somewhere in this house is my scouting file on desert survival...

Desert Survival History & Civil Business Politics

LOL -- yep, a good slap in the face will start you off with a clear head.

Also keep in mind that a lot of deserts do get very, very cold at night. Make sure you have a way of keeping warm. One way is to burrow under the sand. What are the first rules of survival? Shelter, water, fire, and food. (I think in that order, please correct me if I'm wrong)

Roz

Survival Desert

Moving at night is the key(this may even keep you warm).
However water is the MOST important,so you need to learn how to make it.

Dig a small hole,about the size of a coffee can,place something(use your imagination)inside the hole to catch,then place a lid(once again use your imagination)covering the hole,after a few hours condensation will build and drip into your holder,it wont be much,but it will be enough.this is of course if you cant seem to find any plants that store water as mentioned above.

Survival Desert

I forgot to mention distance perseption.
Things at night appear to be closer than they actually are,so if you see head lights in the distance,stop and listen,if you cant hear the traffic,you are farther than 5 miles.
Just thought that would help.

Message Edited! Persephone: Please edit your original message rather than post another right after. See FAQ Board.

Desert Survival

Another method we are taught here in Au. is to place a plastic bag over a tree branch having the foilage in the bag and secure the bag opening around the actual branch in order that it is nearly airtight. Water will precipitate into the bag and can be consumed once enough has collected. It is recommended that you use several bags on different branches to maximise the collection amount.

If you are lucky enough(or unlucky?) to stumble upon a dry riverbed try digging down in the sand. There is a strong possibility the bottom of the hole will fill with dirty water. Do not drink this as it can make you sick!. Simply bring the water to the boil and then let it stand overnight. The silt will sink to the bottom of the container and you will be able to carefully pour off clean drinking water.

Desert Survival

Water is definatley the #1 issue. You can survive months without food but only 3 or 4 days without water. (depending on your environment) Another thing is to keep your skin covered even if it is hot. You'll loose more water and get burnt if you don't. I was in Iraq and had to fill sandbags so I kept my camouflage blouse on even though it was about 120 degrees. My blouse was soaked by the time I was finished but it stayed wait for a good deal of time after the work was finished.

Desert Survival Politics Business Civil & History

When I was stranded in the Negev desert...jeeps suck at off-roading... I found the best way to survive in the desert was to pull out my radio and call for help.