20 Critical Steps to Take When You're Stranded on a Deserted Island

Blog Feb 3, 2023 0 10999 Add to Reading List

Being stranded on an island can be a terrifying experience, but with the right knowledge and preparation, survival is possible. In this article, we will outline the 20 most important things you need to do to survive if you find yourself stranded on an island.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first step in any survival situation is to stay calm and assess the situation. Take a moment to evaluate your surroundings, gather information about the island, and consider any potential dangers. This will help you make a plan and prioritize your needs.

2. Find a Source of Fresh Water

Finding a source of fresh water is crucial for survival on an island. Access to clean, fresh water is necessary for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. It is important to locate a source of fresh water as soon as possible and to make a plan for collecting and storing it.

One method for finding a source of fresh water is to look for signs of vegetation, such as lush green trees or plants, as these indicate the presence of water nearby. You can also look for running water sources, such as streams or rivers, as these are more likely to contain fresh water than stagnant pools.

When looking for a source of fresh water, it is important to distinguish between fresh and stagnant water. Stagnant water can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can make you sick, so it is important to avoid drinking it if possible. Fresh water, on the other hand, is usually clear and has a clean, crisp taste. If you are unsure whether the water is fresh or stagnant, you can purify it by boiling or filtering it before drinking.

Locating a source of fresh water is a critical step in surviving on an island. By being proactive and vigilant in your search for water, you can ensure that you have access to the vital resource you need to stay healthy and hydrated.

3. Build Shelter

Building shelter is essential for protecting yourself from the elements and staying warm. Look for materials such as leaves, branches, and rocks to construct a shelter. It is also important to build your shelter in a location that provides protection from wind, rain, and sunlight.

4. Start a Fire

Starting a fire is one of the most important survival skills you can have on an island. A fire can be used for warmth, cooking food, water purification and signaling for help. There are several methods for starting a fire, and it is important to explore all of them in order to increase your chances of success.

One method is to use a fire starter, such as a lighter or matches. If you have access to these items, they are an excellent option for starting a fire quickly and easily.

Another method is to use a friction-based fire starter, such as a bow drill or hand drill. This method requires more time and effort, but can be effective if you do not have access to fire starters.

You can also start a fire using a lens or glass bottle. By focusing the sun's rays through the lens or glass bottle onto a piece of tinder, you can create enough heat to start a fire.

Starting a fire is a crucial survival skill on an island. By exploring all of the methods available to you and practicing the ones that work best for you, you can increase your chances of survival.

5. Find Food

Finding food is essential for survival. Look for sources of food such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. You can also try fishing or hunting for food if necessary.

6. Signal for Help

Signaling for help is crucial if you want to be rescued. Build a signal fire and make it as visible as possible. You can also create a signal flag or use mirrors to reflect sunlight towards passing boats or aircraft.

7. Maintain Personal Hygiene

Maintaining personal hygiene is important for both physical and mental health. Bathe regularly and keep yourself clean to avoid infections and illnesses.

8. Create a Inventory of Supplies

Creating an inventory of supplies is important to keep track of what you have and what you need. Make a list of all the items you have, including food, water, shelter materials, and tools.

9. Beware of Predators

Being aware of potential predators on the island is crucial for your safety. Some islands may have dangerous animals such as snakes, large cats, or even poisonous insects. It is important to take precautions to avoid dangerous animals and to have a plan in case of an encounter. This may include carrying a weapon for self-defense, avoiding areas known to have high predator activity, and staying alert while exploring the island.

It is also important to remember that some predators may not be immediately obvious, and can even include other stranded individuals. It is crucial to assess potential threats and to trust your instincts when it comes to your safety. By being aware of potential predators and taking the necessary precautions, you can reduce the risk of harm and increase your chances of survival on the island.

10. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for survival. Drink plenty of water and avoid drinking salt water, as this can dehydrate you further.

11. Stay Active

Staying active is important for physical and mental health. Exercise regularly and stay active to maintain your strength and energy levels.

12. Stay Positive

Staying positive is crucial for survival. Focus on the things you are grateful for and maintain a positive attitude, even in difficult circumstances.

13. Sourcing Materials to Build a Raft

Having a means of transportation off the island is crucial for eventual rescue or escape. Building a raft is one option for leaving the island, but it requires the sourcing of materials and the proper construction techniques. Look for materials such as driftwood, bamboo, or palm fronds that can be used to build the raft's structure and for tying it together. You may also need additional materials such as vines or ropes to secure the raft and for steering.

It is important to research and familiarize yourself with raft building techniques before attempting to build one, as it can be a complex process. Make sure to use sturdy materials and to properly secure the raft to ensure its stability and safety in the water.

Sourcing materials and building a raft is a crucial step in increasing your chances of leaving the island and being rescued. It requires careful planning, research, and execution, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it is possible to build a raft that will safely transport you off the island.

14. Create a Map

Creating a map of the island is important for navigation and exploration. Use natural landmarks and other features to mark the location of important resources and areas of the island.

15. Know How to Use First Aid

Knowing how to use first aid is crucial in any survival situation. Make sure you have basic first aid supplies on hand, such as bandages and antiseptic, and know how to treat common injuries and illnesses. You should also know how to properly clean and dress wounds to prevent infections.

16. Learn to Identify Edible Plants

In the absence of modern tools such as books or the internet, it is crucial to learn how to identify edible plants on the island. This skill can be the difference between survival and starvation, especially in the event that fishing or hunting is not an option.

One way to identify edible plants is to observe how local wildlife interacts with the plants. If birds, squirrels, or other animals are eating a particular plant, it is likely that the plant is safe for human consumption.

Another way to identify edible plants is to observe and understand their physical characteristics. Edible plants often have certain features that distinguish them from poisonous plants, such as smooth edges on leaves and a lack of thorns. Additionally, the smell, taste, and texture of the plant can also be indicators of its edibility.

It is important to exercise caution when attempting to consume unknown plants and to only eat a small amount at first to test for any adverse effects. Additionally, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of plant poisoning and to seek medical attention if necessary.

17. Create a Distress Signal

Creating a distress signal is important for attracting the attention of rescue teams. You can create a large X or an arrow pointing in the direction you need to be rescued from using natural materials or clothing.

18. Find or Build a Means of Communication

Finding or building a means of communication is crucial for survival on an island, as it allows you to signal for help and increase your chances of being rescued. There are several options for communication, and it is important to explore all of them in order to increase your chances of success.

One option is to create a signal fire. This can be done by gathering dry tinder, kindling, and larger pieces of wood and starting a fire in a cleared area. The smoke from the fire can be used to signal for help, and the fire can also be used for warmth and cooking.

Another option is to use reflective items, such as mirrors or metal sheets, to signal for help. Reflective items can be used to reflect the sun's rays and create a signal that can be seen from a distance.

Building or finding a means of communication is essential for survival on an island. By exploring all of the options available to you and utilizing them effectively, you can increase your chances of being rescued and surviving the ordeal.

19. Fabricate Fishing Equipment

In order to supplement your food supply on an island, it is important to have the ability to fish. While fishing gear may not be readily available, it is possible to fabricate fishing equipment using the materials found on the island.

One option is to create a fishing line using strong and flexible materials such as plant fibers or vines. A hook can be made from a bent piece of wire or a sharpened stick. Bait can be obtained from insects, worms, or other small animals found on the island.

Another option is to create a fishing net using similar materials as the fishing line. A net can be made by tying knots in the fibers or vines and tying them together in a grid pattern. The net can be held open by tying it to sticks or rocks and thrown into the water to catch fish.

Fabricating fishing equipment can be a challenge, but it is an essential skill for survival on an island. By using the resources available to you, you can supplement your food supply and increase your chances of survival.

20. Keep Your Mind and Body Healthy

Keeping your mind and body healthy is important for overall survival. Maintain a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and happiness.

In conclusion, being stranded on an island can be a challenging and frightening experience, but with the right preparation and knowledge, survival is possible. The 20 most important things to do to survive on an island include staying calm and assessing the situation, finding a source of fresh water, building shelter, starting a fire, finding food, signaling for help, maintaining personal hygiene, creating a inventory of supplies, prioritizing tasks, staying hydrated, staying active, staying positive, building a support system, creating a map, knowing how to use first aid, learning to identify edible plants, creating a distress signal, finding or building a means of communication, learning survival skills, and keeping your mind and body healthy.

Article Written by Mike Hodkinson