blizzards and wind chill
extreme heat
floods
hurricanes
sandstorms
thunderstorms/lightning stormsSee “Weather,” Chapter 11, for a more detailed description of how to handle
these events.
Predators and Dangerous Animals
NOTHING GETS AS MUCH PLAY IN THE MEDIA as people getting mauled or killed
by animals. And while it may be true that people occasionally are killed by ani-
mals, in the overwhelming majority of these instances, the death was due not
to the actions of a true predator but to what I call an “accidental predator.”
An accidental predator (such as a black bear) is primarily concerned
with getting its food, usually small or hoofed animals, fish, or plants.
Encounters with accidental predators occur when human beings invade
their territories.
True predators (such as great white sharks or tigers), on the other
hand, are opportunistic and look at people as opportunities. Sometimes
we serve them this opportunity on a silver platter by venturing into their
territories unprotected.
Animals of every sort have an uncanny ability to sense your state of
mind, whether you feel confident or fearful. Exude fear and they’ll be all
over you. Act confident and strong and they’ll think twice about attacking.
Sharks, for example, don’t like the idea of their prey fighting back, so the
toughest way for a shark to come at you is from the front.
Make sure you’re familiar with the creatures you may meet before
you head out on your journey.
Accidental Predators
The majority of the animals we fear when we head into the wilderness—
including black bears, poisonous snakes, or elephants—are not predators
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