A compass, no matter how you travel, climb, or hike, is an indispensable tool for navigation. A compass can help you save your life in emergency situations, such as when you are lost. But if you're not carrying one or don't have access to one, there's no reason to feel panicked.
Use a Watch to serve as a Compass
You don't need a compass if you're out in the wild or by the sea, this is a quick trick that will allow you to navigate with your analog watch. All you need is a clear view of the sun, and this method can help you get back on track.
First, place the watch horizontally. Then align the hour hands with the sun. The 12 o'clock position on watch should be in the middle of this alignment. This is approximately south in the Northern Hemisphere.
Then, draw an imaginary line from the 12 o'clock position on the dial to the center of the watch. North is represented as the line connecting this angle.
This is not a perfect method, and it won’t work in the dark, but it’s enough to get out of a jam. It's actually very easy to do.
Analog Watches as a Compass
When you're in Northern Hemisphere, your analog watch can be used as a compass. Point the hour hand towards the sun. Imagine an imaginary angle between a watch's hour hand (or the position at 12 oclock) and a line that runs through the middle of the watch. North is represented by the line that starts at the watch's center.
This technique will work in the Southern Hemisphere. However, the point of reference is different. Instead of pointing to the sun with your hour hand, you'll have to point at 12 oclock.
Once you have your angle you can then map other directions. Although the compass won't give you exact bearings, it's better than having no idea where you are going!
Find Direction with a Watch
The accuracy of your compass depends on which watch you are using. This can have an impact on your compass readings, so it's always a good idea to check that the watch you're using is set correctly and that it's not being powered by daylight saving time or other factors.
If you are using a digital watch, you can still use this technique, but it's best to set your watch to the correct time. You also need to keep in mind that this technique won't work if you're using daylight savings time, or if the watch isn't being wound frequently.
How to Find Direction with a Watch
Although it isn't perfect, this method will get you out of your door. If you travel to unfamiliar places or need precise directions, an electronic map compass may be worth your while.
FAQ
What is your most valuable survival tool in case you get lost?
The compass tells us which way north is. It also shows us how far we have traveled from our starting point. The compass will not always point you in the right direction if there are mountains nearby. If you are on a flat plain, however, the compass will most likely give you all you need.
A compass is not necessary if you do not have one. You can use an object like a rock, tree or other solid for guidance. Although you would still need to locate a landmark to guide yourself, at least you would know where north is.
How do you choose the best knife to suit your needs?
It's not easy to pick the right knife. There are so many companies that claim to have the best knives.
But which one is the best? How do you choose?
Consider first what tasks you are going to be performing with your knife.
Do you want to chop wood, skin animals, slice bread or chop vegetables?
Are you hunting or fishing with your knife? Is it designed for camp cooking or kitchen knife cutting?
Will you be using it to open cans or bottles? Will you be opening packages or boxes?
Is your knife strong enough to handle heavy loads?
What about cleaning it after every use? Are you planning to wash it often?
Does it need to retain its edge well over time.
How long does it take before you find help?
This depends on several variables:
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Where are you?
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What type of terrain do you have?
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Whether you have cell phone reception
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Whether someone has seen you
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Whether you have been injured
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Whether you are dehydrated
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You have been drinking water?
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How recently have you eaten?
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Wearing appropriate clothing is important
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No matter if you're carrying a compass or a map,
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How familiar can you be with the area
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How long have you been lost?
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How much time you spent looking for help
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How long does it take for people notice that you're missing?
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It is amazing how quickly they search for you
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How many rescuers can you attract?
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How many rescues did you receive
Statistics
- so you can be 100 percent hands-free, and there's less chance you'll put your torch down and lose it. (nymag.com)
- Not only does it kill up to 99.9% of all waterborne bacteria and parasites, but it will filter up to 1,000 liters of water without the use of chemicals. (hiconsumption.com)
- We know you're not always going to be 100% prepared for the situations that befall you, but you can still try and do your best to mitigate the worst circumstances by preparing for a number of contingencies. (hiconsumption.com)
- Without one, your head and neck can radiate up to 40 percent of your body heat. (dec.ny.gov)
External Links
How To
How to Purify Drink Water in Emergencies
Purification of drinking water is one of the most important activities in times of natural disasters. Filtration, disinfection, storage are all part of the process to purify drinking water. Clean water has been a lifesaver during emergency situations. It also helps people recover faster after disasters.
Purified water should always be stored properly and kept away from direct sunlight. When storing purified water, make sure there is no oxygen left in the container. You can use plastic bags and bottles to store purified water if there are not enough containers. Keep water at 4 degrees Celsius (40 F) or below. Avoid freezing water as ice crystals could form within the water.
When preparing purified water, follow these steps:
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Boil water in a saucepan until it boils. You can strain the boiling water by placing it through a strainer to remove any impurities.
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For every 2 gallons water, add 1 teaspoon of iodine. Before adding the iodine, stir well.
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You should store the water in sealed containers. Keep the water at room temperature for no longer than three working days.
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Label the container with the date and type of water.
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You must ensure that your water supply remains safe.