Here’s a list of the essential things to keep in mind if you find yourself shipwrecked. This advice is inspired by Yan Martel’s award-winning novel, Life of Pi.
1. Always pay close attention to the instructions provided
2. Avoid drinking urine, seawater, or bird blood
3. Never consume jellyfish, fish with spines, fish with beak-like mouths, or those that inflate like balloons.
4. Pressing on a fish's eyes can render them paralyzed
Get your copy of the bestselling book Life of Pi on Amazon.com!
5. The human body is capable of remarkable endurance; if a castaway sustains an injury, be cautious of well-intentioned but misguided medical care. Ignorance is the worst kind of doctor, whereas rest and sleep are the best healers.
6. Elevate your feet for at least 5 minutes each hour
7. Avoid unnecessary physical strain. However, a restless mind often wanders, so it’s essential to keep it occupied with simple distractions. Card games, twenty questions, and I spy are perfect for keeping busy.
8. Green water typically indicates shallower depths compared to blue water
9. Be cautious of distant clouds that resemble mountains. Look for signs of green. Ultimately, only your feet can reliably determine the presence of land.
10. Avoid swimming as it wastes valuable energy. A survival craft might drift faster than you can swim, and sea creatures pose a danger. If you're feeling hot, it's better to dampen your clothes instead.
Looking for more survival tips? Check out The Ultimate Survival Manual – 333 Skills That Will Get You Out Alive on Amazon.com!
11. Never urinate in your clothes. The temporary warmth isn’t worth the discomfort of chafing.
12. Seek shelter. Exposure to the elements can be more lethal than thirst or hunger.
13. The body can survive up to 14 days without water, as long as excessive perspiration is avoided. If you're thirsty, try sucking on a button.
14. Turtles are easy to catch and provide a great source of nutrition. Their blood is a healthy, salt-free drink; their meat is delicious and filling; their fat has multiple uses; and their eggs are a real treat. Watch out for the beak and claws.
15. Keep your morale high. You may feel discouraged, but never let it defeat you. Remember: your spirit matters most. If you have the will to survive, you will. Good luck!
Technorati Tags: lists, shipwreck, survival, Travel
