Survival in the modern day is very different from even 50 years ago. We all have cell phones and society has spread out along many of the roads and highways we use every day, thus giving us a nice security blanket. But are you really prepared? I am going to look at the Mini Survival Tin and how it relates to the basics of survival. Keep in mind that it takes practice and knowledge to do many of these things listed below, so do it at your own risk.

First off, the basics of short term survival are water, food, shelter/heat, communication/signaling and first aid. The Mini Survival Tin can be placed in your back pocket, purse, backpack or glove compartment and be forgotten about until the need arises. Inside you will find 13 useful items that will help you in any situation. Keep in mind the water proof container is great for pills, nutritional powder or just fill it with sugar for an energy boost.

Water

There are 10 water purification tablets in the tin that will allow you to purify water from any river or lake. Keep in mind that the tablets do not work on chemicals, but do work on bacteria and protozoa. Find a water source, make sure that it looks somewhat clean, fill a container with water, drop a pill in and follow the instructions in the tin on how to properly purify the water. The good news is the tin can hold some water if you can’t find a container or plastic bottle.

Food

Food is a tough one. You can use the waterproof pill container to add some supplement meal powder, vitamins, or do what I do - make a fishing rod out of the fishing wire, metal rings and hooks provided and get something more substantial. I know this is not going to be for everyone buts it’s a good option if you plan to be near water and need to survive for more than a day.

Shelter & Heat

If you find yourself in a car, use it for shelter unless you have to abandon it. You can use the waterproof/windproof matches in the kit to start a fire outside to keep yourself warm. The paracord from the kit is useful here as well. You can use it to tie several branches together and create a make shift shelter. There is a small blade provided for any fine cutting you may need to do.

Finding Help

Next you need to look at finding help, and letting help find you. If your cell phone is out of power and you don’t have a backup battery then you can use several items in the kit. First off, use the pencil and the paper provided to leave a note behind telling rescuers which direction you are going in (use compass) and when you left. The compass will let you know which direction you are walking in. Hopefully you can just head back in the direction you came. Always keep the emergency whistle on hand to blow out of it as you walk. This will keep a constant signal for anyone off in the distance or nearby. Sound can travel up to 10 kilometres in an open field if loud enough. The inside of the tin can also be used as a mirror to reflect the sun during the day. Finally, use the mini glow stick at night for light and so people can see you from a distance if you don’t have a fire going.

First Aid

You can make a quick tourniquet using the paracord and pencil. A Tourniquet is a constricting or compressing device that will control blood flow or stop it altogether. You have a mini sewing kit ready to sew up any major wounds. This is only done in dire situations as it's hard to do and will hurt. Make a fire to sterilize he needles before use. Don’t forget that the waterproof case can also hold pills if needed, bandages etc. It's up to you to customize it.

Those are the basics of the kit - emergency survival in your back pocket. You can purchase the kit at thesurvivaltin.com or visit The Survival Expo this August 8th and 9th at the Scotiabank Convection Centre in Niagara Falls to find many customizable options.