Outdoor Safety and Survival Skills Flashcards

When lost in the wilderness, what does the acronym STOP stand for?

Answer: Stop, Think, Observe, Plan

STOP (Stop, Think, Observe, Plan) is the survival acronym that helps lost individuals avoid panic and make rational decisions.

Which type of water source is generally considered the safest to drink without treatment in a wilderness survival situation?

Answer: Collected rainwater

Collected rainwater is generally the cleanest source since it hasn't contacted ground contaminants, though all wild water should ideally be treated.

What is the universal distress signal for someone in need of rescue?

Answer: Three of any signal (fires, whistle blasts, flashes)

Three of any signal—three fires, three whistle blasts, or three flashes—is the universally recognized distress signal.

In cold weather survival, the greatest danger of wet clothing is that it increases heat loss by approximately how much compared to dry clothing?

Answer: 20 times

Wet clothing loses insulating value and conducts heat away from the body approximately 20 times faster than dry clothing.

When building an emergency shelter, which location should you AVOID?

Answer: A dry creek bed or ravine

Dry creek beds and ravines are flood-prone and channel cold air at night, making them dangerous shelter locations.

Which of the following is the FIRST priority in a survival situation?

Answer: Maintaining a positive mental attitude

A positive mental attitude (PMA) is the top survival priority because psychological will-to-survive drives all other decisions and actions.

In a wilderness first aid scenario, a victim showing shivering, confusion, and slurred speech is likely experiencing which condition?

Answer: Mild hypothermia

Shivering, confusion, and slurred speech are classic signs of mild to moderate hypothermia, indicating the body is still trying to rewarm itself.