I read Brian Emdins book
Survival Secrets over the summer. Definately a survival book, NOT bushcraft.
Emdin is from Canada and has over 3 decades of experience according to his resume including several years serving as the Senior Instructor for the Canadian Forces Survival Training School. While he has practical advice for all environments and discusses prevention (clothing, etc.), there is an emphasis on addressing cold (hypothermia)
Here is his Survival Plan of which he backs up physiologically and psychologically. He is adamant and presents several good arguments that in virtually every situation you should memorize and stick to the plan.
1. First Aid
2. Fire
3. Shelter
4. Signals
5. Water
6. Food
Fire is very high on his list and as he states in many cases may be your priority as it relates to first aid (hypothermia). Summarizing greatly... Fire also supplements your shelter, is a signal, makes your water safe to drink, as well as cooks your food (very low priority in his book and list). He also argues the psychological advantage to fire and its place in the survival plan.
Emdin uses many examples in the book to back up his plan. And he is specific in that "the plan" is for SURVIVAL.
Survival being whatever it takes to extend life one moment longer.
Everyone evangelizes the Rule of 3s... this is the first time I have seen someone preach in writing what I have thought as it relates to fire. And "MY rule" has always been, life sucks without fire.
Perhaps Mors Kochanskis rule (suggestion?) falls into this line of thought? 8 hours sleep and hydrate. I always liked this. Remember, this is for survival, no sleeping bag
Where are you going to put your energy first? I know where I have before and will again because
life sucks without fire.
Emdin's book is currently out of print, but you can get an e-book from
http://www.spottedcowpress.ca/. While it is very different from Cody Lundins 98.6*, it does remind me of that book in that the approach is unique and goals are the same.
They complement each other well (and I am not the first to make that statement). I havent bought an e-book before, so not sure if the price is high at $11.95. So, it if were on the shelf at a bookstore at that price, I would recommend.
Peace,
Chris
