Have you ever thought about how you’d react in a life-threatening emergency? Most people go about their daily lives without considering what could go wrong, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s a fire in your kitchen or a dangerous lightning storm, knowing a few crucial survival tips could be the difference between life and death. In this blog, we’ll walk through some life-saving survival hacks that everyone should know. Because when danger strikes, it’s better to be prepared than to panic.
Main Points in Steps or List Format
1. Don’t Mix Bleach and Ammonia Products
Many people unknowingly mix cleaning products like bleach and ammonia, which creates toxic chloramine gas. This deadly gas can cause severe breathing problems and even death if inhaled. Always keep these products separate and ventilate the room thoroughly when using them.
2. The Fishy Smell That Could Save Your Life
If you notice a strange smell of fish or urine in your home without explanation, don’t ignore it. This could signal that your electrical wiring is overheating and melting. Electrical fires can spread quickly, so shut off the power immediately and inspect the area to prevent a catastrophic fire.
3. How to Safely Extinguish a Grease Fire
Never use water on a grease fire! If you’re frying something and the oil catches fire, quickly turn off the heat and cover the pan with a damp cloth or lid to cut off the oxygen supply. You can also throw salt or baking soda on the fire to smother the flames, but never attempt to extinguish a grease fire with water, as this will cause the fire to spread even further.
4. If Your Car Breaks Down on Railroad Tracks
Imagine your car breaking down in the middle of a railroad track with a train approaching. The right action could save your life. Abandon the car immediately and run in the direction of the approaching train to avoid the debris from your vehicle.
5. How to Recognise and Respond to Heat Stroke
Nausea and dizziness are common symptoms of heat stroke, but there’s an easy way to tell if you’re experiencing this condition. If eating something sweet—like a lump of sugar—tastes strange or awful, it’s a sign that you’re suffering from heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately, as heat stroke can quickly become fatal if not treated.
6. The Power of a Spare Tire in an Emergency
Stuck far from civilisation with no phone or way to call for help? A simple spare tire could be a life-saver. Set it on fire to produce thick black smoke, which can be seen from miles away, alerting rescuers to your location.
7. What to Do in a Lightning Storm
Contrary to popular belief, lightning can strike the same place multiple times. If you’re caught outside during a lightning storm, avoid standing near tall objects or metal items. If you feel a metallic taste in your mouth and your hair stands on end, lightning is about to strike. Quickly squat down with your heels together to reduce the risk of being struck.
8. The Right Way to Test for Electric Shocks
If you suspect an object may be electrified, never touch it with your palm. Instead, use the back of your hand. This allows you to quickly retract your hand if you get shocked, reducing the risk of injury.
9. What to Do After a Snake Bite
If bitten by a snake, don’t attempt to suck out the venom. Instead, give the victim antihistamines and encourage them to drink fluids. Rush them to a hospital as quickly as possible. Do not try to apply bandages or cold compresses as this could worsen the situation.
10. When to Call Emergency Services
When calling emergency services, always give your address first. This ensures that help can be sent immediately, even if the conversation is interrupted. After providing your location, explain the emergency so that the right help can be dispatched.
11. How to Tell Which Way to Swim After Diving
If you’re diving and lose your sense of direction, exhale underwater. The rising bubbles will lead you toward the surface. Follow them to safety and avoid panicking.
12. How to Handle Wild Animal Bites
Any bite from a wild animal, even a small scratch, can lead to rabies. Wash the wound immediately and get to a hospital within 15 minutes. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of survival.
13. Avoiding Accidents When Crossing the Road
If you see a bright reflection of the sun on the windshield of an oncoming vehicle, the driver may not be able to see you. Always wait for the car to pass, even if you have the right of way.
14. Avoid Brain-Eating Amoebas While Jumping into Water
When jumping into a lake or pond, always pinch your nose. Without this precaution, dangerous amoebas in the water can enter your nasal cavity, causing serious infections. Swallowing them won’t cause harm, but getting them into your brain is a different story.
15. How to Escape a Car in an Emergency
If you’re trapped inside your car and need to escape through the window, aim for the corners of the glass with a heavy object. This is where windows are most vulnerable.
16. Don’t Leave Bottles of Water in Direct Sunlight
A bottle of water left in direct sunlight can start a fire. The bottle acts as a lens, focusing the sunlight into one spot. Never leave water bottles lying around, especially in cars on sunny days.
17. How to Escape a Tornado’s Path
If a tornado seems to be hovering over the same area, it’s likely headed towards you. Find a solid object, such as a tree or large rock, to focus on. If the tornado moves towards it, run in the opposite direction.
18. What to Do if You Feel a Metallic Taste in Water
If you taste metal while swimming in a large body of water or pool, immediately exit the water. This could indicate an electrical short circuit nearby, which poses a serious risk of electrocution.
19. How to Regain Control of a Skidding Car
If your car starts to skid, turn the wheel in the direction of the skid rather than against it. This will help you regain control and reduce the chances of flipping your car.
20. How to Escape Quicksand If you find yourself stuck in quicksand, don’t panic. Throw away any heavy belongings to make yourself lighter, and slowly move your legs to push yourself out. If you’re already waist-deep, lie flat to spread your weight and help you stay afloat while waiting for rescue.
