Survival situations can be very challenging and dangerous. Unfortunately, there are several survival myths that have been passed down from generation to generation. While some of these myths may seem harmless or even helpful, the truth is that they can actually be quite dangerous.
In this guide, we will explore 15 common survival myths and explain why they are not true and how they can put you in danger.
Myth #1: You Can Suck the Venom Out of a Snakebite
One of the most common survival myths is that you can suck the venom out of a snakebite to prevent it from spreading. However, this is not only ineffective but also dangerous. Sucking the venom out of a snakebite can actually cause the venom to spread more quickly through your body, leading to more serious symptoms.
Additionally, it is often difficult to suck out all of the venom, and you may not be able to do so even if you try. Furthermore, if you have any cuts or sores in your mouth, sucking out the venom can introduce the venom into your bloodstream, leading to even more serious consequences.
Instead of attempting to suck the venom out, you should seek medical attention immediately and try to keep the affected area still. Immobilizing the affected limb can help prevent the venom from spreading through your body. If you are unable to get medical attention quickly, you can use a compression bandage to help slow the spread of venom.
Myth #2: You Should Follow Rivers to Civilization
Another common myth is that you should follow rivers to civilization if you are lost in the wilderness. While following a river may seem like a good idea, it can actually be dangerous. Rivers can be difficult to navigate and can lead you further away from civilization.
Furthermore, rivers often wind and curve, which can make it difficult to determine which direction you are heading in. Following a river can also be physically taxing, as you may need to cross the river multiple times or navigate around obstacles.
Instead of following a river, it is better to try to navigate using a map and compass, or to look for other landmarks that can help you determine your location. If you are unsure of your location or direction, it is best to stay put and wait for rescue.
Myth #3: You Should Drink Your Own Urine
Many people believe that drinking your own urine can help you stay hydrated in a survival situation. However, this is not true. Drinking urine can actually make you more dehydrated and can introduce harmful bacteria and toxins into your body.
Urine is a waste product that your body is trying to get rid of, and drinking it can cause your body to work harder to eliminate the toxins and waste products. Additionally, drinking urine can lead to a buildup of harmful substances in your body, which can lead to serious health problems.
Instead of drinking urine, it is better to find a safe source of water and purify it before drinking. If you are unable to find water, you can try to collect dew or rainwater, or use a solar still to collect moisture from the air.
Myth #4: You Should Suck Out the Poison from a Sting or Bite
Another common myth is that you should suck out the poison from a sting or bite to prevent it from spreading. However, like with snakebites, this is ineffective and can be dangerous. Sucking out the poison can cause the venom to spread more quickly and can also introduce harmful bacteria into the wound.
Additionally, it is often difficult to suck out all of the poison, and you may not be able to do so even if you try. Instead of attempting to suck out the poison, you should seek medical attention immediately and try to keep the affected area still.
Myth #5: You Should Follow Animals to Find Water
Some people believe that following animals can lead you to a source of water in the wilderness. However, this is not true. Animals can survive without water for longer than humans and may not be heading to a water source at all.
Furthermore, following animals can be dangerous, as they may lead you into unfamiliar territory or put you in harm’s way. Animals may also lead you to dangerous sources of water, such as stagnant ponds or contaminated streams.
Instead of following animals, it is better to use your own knowledge and survival skills to find water. Look for signs of water, such as vegetation or animal tracks, and listen for the sound of running water. If you are still unable to find water, it may be best to stay put and conserve your energy until help arrives.
Myth #6: You Should Always Build a Fire
Building a fire can be a useful survival skill in some situations, but it is not always necessary. In fact, building a fire can sometimes do more harm than good.
In dry or windy conditions, building a fire can be dangerous and can lead to wildfires. Additionally, if you are in a survival situation where you need to stay hidden or avoid attracting attention, a fire can give away your location.
Before building a fire, consider whether it is necessary and safe to do so. If you do decide to build a fire, make sure you do it in a safe location and follow proper fire safety procedures.
Myth #7: You Should Drink Saltwater in Small Amounts
Many people believe that drinking small amounts of saltwater can help you stay hydrated in a survival situation. However, this is not true. Drinking saltwater can actually make you more dehydrated and can cause serious health problems.
Saltwater is much saltier than your body’s fluids, and drinking it can cause your body to expel more water than it takes in. This can lead to dehydration, which can be life-threatening in a survival situation.
Instead of drinking saltwater, it is better to find a safe source of water and purify it before drinking. If you are unable to find water, you can try to collect dew or rainwater, or use a solar still to collect moisture from the air.
Myth #8: You Should Always Climb a Tree to Escape Danger
Climbing a tree can seem like a good way to escape danger, but it is not always the best option. Climbing a tree can be dangerous, especially if you are not experienced or the tree is not sturdy.
Additionally, climbing a tree can sometimes put you in even more danger. If you are being pursued by a predator, for example, climbing a tree can make you an easy target.
Before climbing a tree, assess the situation and consider whether it is the best option. If you do decide to climb a tree, make sure it is sturdy and you have the necessary skills and equipment to do so safely.
Myth #9: Moss Always Grows on the North Side of Trees
Many people believe that moss always grows on the north side of trees, and that this can be used as a navigation tool in the wilderness. However, this is not true.
While it is true that some types of moss prefer to grow on the north side of trees, this is not always the case. Additionally, other factors can affect the growth of moss, such as sunlight, moisture, and wind.
Instead of relying on moss to navigate, it is better to use a map and compass, or to look for other landmarks or signs that can help you determine your location.
Myth #10: You Should Cut X-Shaped Wounds in Snakebites
Another common myth is that you should cut X-shaped wounds in snakebites to prevent the venom from spreading. However, this is not only ineffective but also dangerous. Cutting a snakebite can cause further damage to the affected area and can lead to more serious symptoms.
Additionally, cutting the bite can actually increase the risk of infection, as it can introduce harmful bacteria into the wound.
The best course of action, if you are bitten by a snake, is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Try to remember the color and shape of the snake to help medical professionals determine the type of snake and the appropriate treatment.
Myth #11: You Can Suck Venom out of a Wound
Sucking venom out of a wound is another ineffective and potentially dangerous method for treating snakebites or insect stings.
Sucking on the wound can actually increase the risk of infection, as bacteria from your mouth can enter the wound. Additionally, sucking out the venom is unlikely to be effective, as the venom is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.
Instead of trying to suck out the venom, it is better to seek medical attention immediately. Keep the affected area still and below heart level to slow the spread of the venom.
Myth #12: You Should Drink Alcohol to Stay Warm
Drinking alcohol to stay warm is a dangerous myth that can lead to hypothermia and other serious health problems. While alcohol may initially make you feel warmer, it actually dilates blood vessels, causing you to lose body heat more quickly.
In a survival situation, it is important to stay warm and dry to avoid hypothermia. Instead of relying on alcohol, use proper clothing and shelter to stay warm. Build a fire if it is safe to do so, and make sure to insulate yourself from the ground to avoid losing body heat.
Myth #13: You Can Purify Water by Boiling it for a Few Minutes
Boiling water is a common method for purifying water in the wilderness, but it is important to do it correctly to ensure that the water is safe to drink. Simply boiling water for a few minutes is not always enough to kill all the harmful bacteria and parasites that may be present.
To properly purify water, you should bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute, or three minutes at higher altitudes. If you are unable to boil water, you can also use water purification tablets or a portable water filter.
Myth #14: You Should Follow the Moss on Trees to Find Your Way
Like the myth about moss only growing on the north side of trees, the idea that you can follow the moss to find your way is also a common misconception. While some types of moss may prefer to grow on certain sides of trees, this is not always the case. Additionally, other factors such as sunlight and wind can affect the growth of moss.
Instead of relying on moss to navigate, it is better to use a map and compass or other reliable navigation tools. Learn how to read a map and use a compass before heading out into the wilderness.
Myth #15: You Should Stay Put and Wait for Help to Arrive
While it may be tempting to stay put and wait for help to arrive, this is not always the best course of action in a survival situation. In some cases, it may be necessary to take action and find your own way out of a dangerous situation.
Before heading out into the wilderness, make sure you have the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate and survive on your own. Learn how to start a fire, find water, build a shelter, and signal for help.
If you do become lost or stranded, stay calm and assess the situation. Consider your options and take action to ensure your safety and survival. In some cases, this may mean waiting for help to arrive, but in other cases, it may be necessary to take matters into your own hands and find a way out.