Many people head into situations not expecting poor outcomes – and this mindset can leave them in dangerous situations while waiting for help to arrive. While these emergencies are not common, knowing what to do (and having practiced it) provides you with security and confidence to survive until help is available.
Here are two stories that we know of personally where the outcomes were positive, yet the dangerous situation could have been avoided. They also show that survival skills have no age limit: the earlier we learn them, the better prepared we are.
Two real life stories where survival skills were necessary
- On a Mountainside
When my wife was 18 and studying in Austria, she and a friend decided to take their lunch and hike up a nearby mountain. While enjoying the scenery and finding hidden gems on the the hike they soon realized they were not prepared for the demands of the trek. They had no water with them, improper footwear, no way of communicating, no one knew where they had gone (read my article on creating a Trip Plan), and they didn’t speak German. Part of the trek was on a road, some in deep forest and at times they came across unknown homes. Eventually they did figure out where they were, but it was now much later in the afternoon and they were exhausted. Finding their way to the gondola they were able to get a ride back down to their village and to their school.
Looking back now, with years of survival experience, we see the value of teaching teens and kids how to plan a trip, take essential equipment and navigate safely.
- Long hike and a night on an island
Three friends we know went for a casual afternoon hike in British Columbia with little planning. They didn’t have any firm route in mind and didn’t pack for any possible change in weather. Warm daylight turned to cool darkness before they realized they were lost—and stranded on an island. While they were able to get through the night, they required a SAR team evacuate them by helicopter the next day.
It’s easy to let excitement carry us into unfamiliar territory without thinking about time, weather, or navigation. With basic knowledge of fire, shelter, and navigation, we can all turn potential danger into confident adventure.
Positive Mental Attitude is Key
The ability to stop and think in challenging situations gives you the chance to assess, plan, and make decisions that lead to positive outcomes.
What many people don’t realize is how much they don’t know until they’re tested by life. Watching a show or reading about survival can create a false sense of preparedness—but there’s a big difference between seeing it done and doing it yourself.
That’s why every Hoagy’s Outdoor Survival Skills course focuses on hands-on experience. These are skills that require your feet on the ground and your hands on the tools. While much of today’s learning happens behind a screen, this is your chance to get outside, build real confidence, and experience what “prepared” truly feels like.
Master the Fundamentals
Skipping the basics can put anyone at risk. We want you and your family to be equipped with essential knowledge in three key areas:
- 🔥 Firecraft — Create heat, light, and a way to boil water or cook food.
- 🏕️ Shelter — From the clothing you wear to building protection from the elements.
- 🧭 Basic Navigation — Plan your route, stay on track, and find your way through unfamiliar terrain.
Learn Together
Survival skills are best learned in community. Working with others helps you practice teamwork, share ideas, and strengthen all three areas of survival knowledge. When everyone in your group has the same foundation, you can plan smarter and react faster when it counts.
Private group training is available for up to 8 people.
📩 Email survivalskills@hoagysoutdoor.ca for details or to book your session.
Join Us Outdoors
Each full-day course blends instruction with practical, real-world application. Class sizes are small, ensuring one-on-one time with Hoagy as you practice each skill.
The true value of survival training lies in connection—with nature, with others, and with yourself. Build confidence, protection, and preparedness.
Join us for an upcoming Hoagy’s Outdoor Survival Skills course—and build your confidence to survive.
Do you have an experience to share of how survival skills have helped you? Leave a comment below, we would love to hear from you.
Until next time,
Hoagy
