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Drinking liquor will warm you up -

In a cold-weather survival situation, liquor is not the ideal drink. Despite the temporary sensation of warmth it provides, alcohol actually causes the blood vessels and capillaries on the skin surface to expand, resulting in a faster cooling down. It is recommended to consume hot tea or cocoa instead.

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Rubbing frostbitten skin -

Frostbite happens when ice crystals form in the skin and other tissues. However, it is important to avoid rubbing the injury, as doing so can worsen the damage. Instead, slowly rewarm the tissue while using pain relievers to treat frostbite.

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A big fire beats a shelter -

Although large fires provide some warmth, it is still essential to construct a shelter. Unforeseen weather changes like rain or wind can pose risks, and it is never advisable to sleep exposed in the open air.

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If an animal eats it, it's safe for you -

Birds and squirrels have the ability to consume certain berries and mushrooms that are lethal for humans due to our biological differences.

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All base layers are equally effective -

This statement is not accurate. For instance, relying on cotton as your main base layer in cold weather can result in hypothermia. While it is suitable for hot, dry climates, when cotton becomes wet, it loses its ability to insulate.

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Escape bees by jumping into water -

Attempting to flee a horde of bees by leaping into a nearby lake may seem like a viable option, yet the insects will relentlessly sting upon resurfacing. Instead, distance yourself until they disperse, seek refuge in a vehicle or building, and shield yourself from their sting.

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You can suck the venom out of a snakebite -

This practice is strongly discouraged. The venom will swiftly flow into the bloodstream, and placing your mouth on the wound will only introduce more bacteria. What's more, you'll get poison in your mouth! 

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Moss grows on the north side of trees -

Moss can grow on any side of a tree, so this myth should not be relied upon for navigation purposes.

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If a shark attacks you, punch it in the nose -

Let's face it: it's extremely difficult to successfully strike a moving shark's nose, particularly in water. If a shark approaches to bite, attempt to place a solid object between yourself and the creature.

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A lean-to is a great shelter -

A lean-to offers wind protection, but it lacks the ability to provide warmth. To stay warm and dry, one requires a shelter equipped with walls, a roof, and a small entrance.

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Don’t feed a victim of hypothermia -

In cases of mild hypothermia, small, repeated doses of high-calorie foods can be administered to restore the victim's ability to warm up. However, in severe cases, feeding the victim can pose risks of vomiting and choking.

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Let a hypothermia victim get some sleep -

Drowsiness signals a potential fatality for individuals enduring severe hypothermia. Ensuring the person stays awake during the warming process is imperative to prevent any life-threatening consequences.

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Eating raw meat and seafood is safe -

Consuming uncooked animal meat occasionally may be deemed safe, but it is crucial to acknowledge that it can harbor pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, protozoa, worms, and viruses.

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Always swim parallel to the shore if you're caught in a rip current -

This is not completely incorrect, but it is most effective if the water flows directly towards the sea. The ideal approach is to stay composed and swim perpendicular to the current, heading towards the shore.

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Follow birds to locate water -

Not all birds rely on flying to find water; some aquatic birds seldom leave the water's edge. Occasionally, they may fly towards a familiar clearing to spend the night.

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Space blankets are useless -

The Mylar-coated emergency blankets may not appear to be very warm, but their aluminum coating reflects thermal energy, ensuring they provide essential heat. They are truly life-saving.

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Make a fire in a cave for warmth -

Extreme caution should be exercised due to the potential danger of expanding rocks caused by heat, which can result in breakage and pose a risk of falling rocks.

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Snow can provide hydration -

Snow has a higher amount of cold air compared to frozen water, therefore consuming it will not quench your thirst. Furthermore, this act poses the threat of brain and core freeze, potentially resulting in hypothermia.

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Stay hydrated by consuming your urine -

Drinking your own urine is possible, but is it advisable? Urine contains bodily waste, making it unwise to consume.

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Consume fresh blood for survival -

While blood does contain water, consuming raw blood can be dangerous due to potential pathogens, which is strongly discouraged.

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The fluid in a cactus can save you from dying of thirst -

If you become disoriented in the desert, don't be optimistic upon encountering a cactus. In most cases, consuming cactus liquid will result in illness. This may cause you to expel valuable fluids through vomiting, exacerbating your dehydration.

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Always play dead if you're attacked by a bear -

When confronted by a black bear, it is crucial to remember that playing dead is ineffective. Instead, it is advised to defend oneself by appearing bigger and emitting loud noises.

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To escape a bear, climb up a tree -

Bears possess remarkable climbing skills, therefore it is crucial to remember that climbing a tree does not guarantee safety. Please refer to the advice provided in the previous slide.

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A warm bath can treat hypothermia -

To treat hypothermia, rewarming is crucial. However, submerging in a hot bath may induce severe pain and potentially provoke a heart attack. Alternatively, employ hot water bottles beneath the armpits or employ skin-to-skin rewarming.

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Sucking on a stone for hydration -

Sucking on a stone stimulates saliva secretion without offering any actual benefits. Moreover, be cautious with tiny stones as they can potentially obstruct your airway and lead to choking.

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You need to find a food supply immediately if you're lost -

Surviving without food for about six weeks is possible. Thus, your primary focus must be on locating water and shelter.

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Running water is safe to drink -

Water that appears to be flowing may still contain harmful substances like pathogens, heavy metals, and other contaminants that can cause illness. To ensure safety, it is necessary to filter and purify all water acquired from natural sources before consuming it.

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Using a GPS ensures you won't get lost -

It is essential to carry a GPS device when venturing into remote areas. However, it should not be your only means of navigation. It is advisable to carry a map and compass as well, as a backup in case of device failure or battery depletion.

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Rub two sticks together to make a fire -

Friction can generate a flame, although not by rubbing two sticks together. 

Sources: (Outdoor Life) (Insider)

See also: Survival hacks that may save your life

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