Guidelines for Discreetly Venturing into the Wilderness

Assess the Situation. Departing from home and resorting to a woodland existence should be regarded as a last resort, not a primary option. Similarly, choosing to inhabit the wilderness should never be impulsive. Exhaust all other viable alternatives, such as seeking assistance from law enforcement in abusive circumstances or relocating to a homeless shelter instead of the wilderness. Surviving in the woods entails considerable risks, physical exertion, and apprehension. It may involve periods of hunger, thirst, sleep deprivation, and heightened paranoia. Only opt for wilderness refuge when all other avenues have been exhausted.

Strategize Your Departure. Devise a meticulous plan outlining the method and timing of your departure from home, what essentials to carry, and how to reach your intended destination without encountering authorities. Formulate a contingency escape plan, particularly if you reside in a multi-story building or densely populated area. Your plan should be detailed yet adaptable to ensure a smooth transition to your chosen location.

Prepare Your Essentials. Gather necessary items in a bag or backpack, ensuring it's manageable to carry and accommodates all your needs. Essentials include water bottles, a knife, firestarters, water purification tools, canned food, rope, clothing, survival literature, hygiene supplies, cooking utensils, footwear, first aid kit, rain gear, and navigation tools. Consider bringing a cell phone cautiously, mindful of its tracking capability and limited battery life.

Erect Shelter. Prioritize shelter upon deciding to depart. Beyond a roof, prioritize insulation from the ground during sleep, whether using a sleeping bag or makeshift materials like leaves or clothes. Construct a rain and sun shelter with available resources, utilizing plastic tarps or natural elements. Adapt shelter construction based on climate, considering alternative options like snow igloos in winter emergencies.

Ensure Fire Safety. Maintain vigilance for fire safety in cold camping conditions, keeping flames away from flammable materials and preventing smoke from entering shelter.

Secure Water Supply. Following shelter, secure a water source promptly. Purify water diligently through boiling, filtration, solar distillation, or commercial purification methods. Never drink untreated water, particularly from contaminated sources, prioritizing hydration over conservation.

Addressing Food Needs. Once you've secured shelter and water, focus on food. Exercise caution with plants and animals for consumption, avoiding mushrooms and carcasses unless captured in a trap. Prioritize food safety through the Universal Edibility Test and thorough cooking of trapped animals. Consider insects as a viable food source after proper preparation.

Inform a Confidant. If venturing into the wilderness, inform a trusted individual about your destination without disclosing exact coordinates. This precaution ensures assistance in emergencies or adverse weather conditions without jeopardizing your safety.

Rely on Instincts. Trust your instincts and intuition as a preemptive measure against potential threats. Listen to gut feelings and exercise common sense to evade danger. Seek help promptly if feeling followed or threatened, prioritizing communication with authorities or trusted individuals.