In a survival situation, the right knowledge can make all the difference. But unfortunately, some commonly believed tips are not only wrong—they could be downright dangerous. In this article, we’re setting the record straight on 21 survival myths that could put you in harm’s way, along with the real facts to keep you safe when things get tough.
21. Frostbite First-Aid
Frostbite is no joke. It starts as painful red skin but can lead to numbness, tissue damage, and even permanent loss if untreated. The old advice to rub frostbitten skin? Forget it—it can actually cause more harm. Instead, gently warm the area in warm (not hot) water, and focus on finding shelter to prevent the area from freezing again. This is one of those situations where slow and steady wins the race.
20. Cactus Water Isn’t What You Think
The idea of cutting open a cactus to quench your thirst might sound like a good plan, but most cacti are full of fluids that could make you sick—leading to vomiting and dehydration. One exception is the fishhook barrel cactus, which can provide a little bit of water in extreme emergencies. A safer option is the prickly pear fruit, which is hydrating and safe to eat once the spines are removed.
19. Don’t Jump in the Water to Escape Bees
Panicking and jumping into the water to avoid bees seems like a good move, right? Wrong. Bees will actually wait for you to come up for air. Instead, your best option is to find shelter—any dry spot will do—and stay away from swarms whenever possible.
18. Shelter Beats Fire
Hollywood often shows people scrambling to start a fire when they’re lost. But in reality, getting a shelter set up first is way more important. A fire can be doused by rain or blown out by wind, while shelter protects you from the elements right away. Get off the ground to avoid losing body heat at night, then focus on building a fire once you’ve got shelter squared away.
17. Quicksand: Not As Bad As You Think
Quicksand is a classic movie trap, but it’s not as life-threatening as you might believe. If you do find yourself stuck, don’t stand still. Lean back to distribute your weight and make slow, deliberate movements to work your way out. Staying still will only make it harder to escape.
16. Just Because Animals Eat It, Doesn’t Mean You Can
It’s tempting to think that if an animal can eat something, it must be safe for humans. Unfortunately, that’s not true. Human digestive systems are different from animals. Use the universal edibility test before trying any unknown plants, or better yet—stick to what you know is safe.
15. Boiling Water Isn’t the Full Solution
Boiling water can kill bacteria and parasites, but it won’t remove chemicals or sediment. Always filter the water first, using something like cloth or charcoal if possible. And whenever you can, go for flowing water over stagnant sources—they’re usually cleaner.
14. Following Birds Won’t Lead You to Water
Many people believe that following birds will eventually take you to water, but birds fly for all kinds of reasons—water isn’t always one of them. Instead, follow ground animals like deer, who are more likely to lead you to a nearby water source.
13. The Jellyfish Sting Myth
Urinating on a jellyfish sting? Forget it. It might make for a funny sitcom moment, but in real life, it can make things worse by triggering more stinging cells. Rinse the sting with seawater instead and remove any stingers you see.
12. Dress for Success in the Heat
When it’s scorching outside, stripping down to cool off might seem logical. But the truth is, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing actually helps protect you from the sun and retains sweat to keep you cool. So, cover up instead of shedding layers.
11. Alcohol Won’t Keep You Warm
That whiskey shot might make you feel warm for a moment, but it actually lowers your core temperature by dilating your blood vessels. Instead of reaching for alcohol, focus on insulation and finding proper shelter to stay warm.
10. Don’t Start a Fire Inside a Cave
A cozy cave fire sounds like a great survival tactic, but it’s risky. Heat can cause the rocks to expand and crack, and smoke in an enclosed space is a serious health hazard. If you need a fire, make sure to build it outside.
9. Alcohol Isn’t a Wound Cleaner
Despite what Hollywood shows, pouring alcohol on a wound isn’t the best way to go. While it does disinfect, it also damages healthy tissue. Stick with clean water and pressure to treat wounds until you can get proper medical help.
8. Drink Your Water, Don’t Ration It
In extreme heat, rationing your water isn’t the best plan. When you’re thirsty, drink. Your body needs hydration to function properly. Instead, try to minimize water loss by staying cool, avoiding unnecessary exertion, and keeping your skin covered.
7. High Dives Are Dangerous
Jumping from a height into water looks thrilling, but it’s risky. Even from just 50 feet, hitting the water can feel like hitting concrete, leading to serious injuries. If you’re stuck at a high point, look for a safer way down instead of taking the plunge.
6. Shark Defense 101
If confronted by a shark, the myth that punching it in the nose will deter it is misleading. Instead, aim for the eyes or gills, which are more sensitive areas. Use any available object to defend yourself, but remember that sharks rarely attack humans without provocation.
5. Moss Isn’t a Reliable Navigator
The old saying that moss only grows on the north side of trees isn’t reliable. Moss grows based on moisture, not direction, so don’t use it as your sole navigation tool.
4. Know Your Bears
Playing dead can be effective against grizzly bears but is dangerous against black bears. If confronted by a black bear, try to escape or make yourself look larger. For grizzlies, lying flat and covering your neck may increase your chances of survival.
3. Snow Isn’t a Safe Water Source
Eating snow for hydration is a myth; it can lead to further dehydration as your body expends energy to melt it. Instead, melt snow first before drinking. Avoid yellow snow at all costs, as it can be contaminated.
2. Don’t Suck Snake Venom
Sucking out snake venom is a dangerous myth. It can introduce bacteria into the wound and may not remove the venom effectively. The best course of action is to seek medical help immediately for antivenom treatment.
1. Urine Isn’t a Hydration Solution
Drinking urine in a survival situation is a bad idea. It’s full of waste products that will only make you more dehydrated. Focus on finding clean water from natural sources like streams or rainwater.
