If the worst does happen, whether mugging or natural disaster, stay calm. You can work your way out of even the worst situations….and may even have some great stories to tell later on.
Muggers: Don’t fight back against muggers. Hand over what they request……nothing in your pocket is worth you life. Do split up your cash though, so that you’re not losing everything. Some savvy travelers even carry a “fake” wallet, with just a few small bills and some old voter registration or library cards inside. The real wallet stays safely tucked away.
Hurricane: If it isn’t possible to evacuate the area, head for the nicest hotel, one that’s not right on the water, and one that has the highest possible hurricane rating. Do not take a room on the first two floors because of flooding danger. Also, don’t take a room higher than the seventh floor, where fire truck ladders can’t easily reach you. Before the hurricane hits, fill the bathtub and sinks with water, so you’ll have drinking water in case regular services fail.
Car breakdown in remote area: Stay with your vehicle. There are lots of examples of people who set off walking and didn’t survive, while those left behind in the vehicle did. If there’s a chance of search planes flying overhead, start a fire and burn a car tire during daylight hours to produce easy-to-spot black smoke.
Earthquake: In well-developed countries, stay where you are or move under solid furniture. In undeveloped countries, get outside immediately---buildings there aren’t likely to be earthquake proof.
Stranded in high-heat conditions: Create a double-layer shelter against the sun---it’s cooler than a single layer. Try a combination of a tarp and branches, with at least one foot of space between the shade layers, so air can pass between. Or set up under a tree or natural outcropping of rock.
Riots or political unrest: Stay inside. If it’s okay for locals to move about, pay one to bring in supplies.
Severe cold: Swing your arms and legs to get blood to fingers and toes---typically the first parts to freeze. Staying hydrated also helps maintain circulation, which keeps you warm. Keep clothing dry. When you’re walking, building a shelter, or gathering firewood, remove your hat and gloves if necessary to avoid sweating. To dry wet items without a fire, allow them to freeze, then crumple and shake out the ice bits.
Safari gone wrong: If you find yourself on foot among safari-type animals at night, climb a tree and wait until sunrise. During the day, walk out in the open, head downwind and make noise so animals can see, smell, and hear you coming. If you’re face-to-face at close range, the rule of thumb is to back away slowly while avoiding eye contact. Stay together if in a group, and do not turn and run.
Snake drops into your canoe: DON’T PANIC, you could tip and then YOU and the snake are in the water. Row calmly ashore where you can deal with that rude interloper.
