Must-know before wilderness exploration: This knowledge can save your life!

I. Environmental and Geographical Knowledge

1. Terrain and Landscape Recognition
   Before venturing into the wilderness, a careful study of the topographic map of the destination is of utmost importance. Understanding the layout of mountains, the flow of rivers, and the location of valleys helps in planning a safe and rational route. For example, when traversing mountainous areas, it is advisable to avoid steep cliffs and valleys prone to mudslides. In mountainous terrains, if you notice that the slopes on both sides are steep and the vegetation is sparse, be vigilant about potential landslides caused by heavy rain. In case of such an emergency, quickly move towards the higher ground perpendicular to the direction of the landslide.
2. Orientation Judgment Skills
   Getting lost in the wild is one of the most dangerous scenarios. Mastering the ability to determine directions using natural phenomena can keep you on track. During the day, the sun serves as a reliable guide. In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun generally rises in the east, is due south at noon, and sets in the west. If you have a watch, point the hour hand at the sun, and the bisector of the angle between the hour hand and the 12 - o'clock mark indicates the south direction. At night, the North Star is an excellent navigational aid. Locate the Big Dipper, which looks like a ladle. Extend the line connecting the two outermost stars of the Big Dipper's bowl by about five times, and you will find the North Star. Its direction is due north.
3. Climate and Weather Prediction
   Weather conditions can have a significant impact on wilderness exploration. Check the weather forecast before the trip to get a general idea of the weather trend. However, the weather in the wild can be unpredictable, so it's essential to know some simple prediction methods. For instance, observing clouds can give clues. Cumulonimbus clouds often signal impending rain or thunderstorms. The sight of ants moving in large numbers or swallows flying low usually indicates an approaching rain. In mountainous areas, a sudden drop in temperature and the appearance of dense fog may suggest the arrival of severe weather. In such cases, it is crucial to find a safe shelter as soon as possible.

II. Knowledge about Plants and Animals

1. Differentiating Edible and Poisonous Plants
   In the wild, food sources may be limited, and knowing which plants are edible and which are poisonous is vital. Generally, common edible wild vegetables and fruits like shepherd's purse and purslane are relatively safe. Their leaves are usually tender and have no pungent odors. In contrast, many poisonous plants have distinct characteristics. For example, brightly - colored mushrooms are often highly toxic. The death cap mushroom, which is white and can be easily mistaken for edible mushrooms, contains deadly toxins. Never pick and eat plants that you are not familiar with. If you accidentally ingest a poisonous plant and experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing, induce vomiting immediately and seek medical help as soon as possible.
2. Precaution against Dangerous Animals
   The wild is home to various animals, some of which can pose a threat to humans. Understanding the habits and preventive measures of common dangerous animals is crucial. For example, when encountering a bear, remain calm and avoid running. Slowly back away and avoid direct eye contact to make it feel that you are not aggressive. If bitten by a snake, stay calm, remember the appearance of the snake, and try to tie a bandage above the wound (towards the heart) to slow down the spread of venom. However, loosen the bandage at regular intervals to prevent limb ischemia. Then, seek medical treatment promptly.
3. Utilizing Plants for Resources
   Plants can provide not only food but also other resources. Some tree barks, such as birch bark, contain oil and are easy to ignite, which can be used for starting a fire. The fibers of certain plants, like nettles, are tough and can be processed into ropes for binding items after simple treatment.

III. First - Aid and Survival Knowledge

1. Basic First - Aid Skills
   Mastering basic first - aid skills such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and wound - dressing can save the life of an injured companion. If someone is bleeding, use a clean gauze or cloth to press on the wound to stop the bleeding. For larger wounds, apply pressure dressing. For a patient with a fracture, try to immobilize the fractured part to avoid further injury. In case of cardiac arrest, immediately perform CPR. Press the chest at a rate of 100 - 120 times per minute and combine it with artificial respiration.
2. Shelter - Building Methods
   A safe and comfortable shelter is essential for rest and safety in the wild. You can build a simple shelter using materials such as branches, leaves, and plastic sheets. In a forest, choose two trees with an appropriate distance between them. Tie branches to the two trees to form a frame, and then cover it with leaves and plastic sheets to make a simple tent. When building a shelter, choose a location with high terrain, dryness, good drainage, and away from dangerous areas such as riverbanks and the bottom of cliffs.
3. Signal Sending and 求救
   If you are in danger and need help in the wild, knowing how to send effective signals is crucial. During the day, you can use smoke signals. Burn damp branches and leaves to produce thick smoke. At night, use light signals. For example, use a flashlight to flash in the international SOS pattern (three short, three long, three short). Additionally, you can set up obvious distress signals in open areas, such as using stones to spell out "SOS" or hanging bright - colored clothes at a high place to increase the chance of being discovered.