Life-Saving Backcountry Gear of an Emergency Medical Responder
I worked as an Emergency Medical Responder from 2013 to 2018, and back then I didn’t really stop to think about how much it would stick with me. At the time it was just doing shifts, calls, doing the work. But now, years later, I notice it every time I’m packing up for the backcountry. […]
Best Survival Flashlights: Gear That Won’t Fail When You Need Light Most
Dark wilderness nights turn survival flashlights into your most critical gear. When it comes to lighting, quality versus cheap makes all the difference between getting home and getting into serious trouble. Years in the field taught me something crucial. One bad storm, one wrong turn, and if your lighting doesn’t hold up, you’re in real […]
Survival Knots 101: Learning Essential Knots for Wilderness Emergencies
My introduction to rope work began at the fire station. Back then, I viewed knot practice as just another drill requirement. The instructor made us repeat the same eight survival knots until our hands moved automatically. I grumbled about the repetition, but those sessions proved invaluable during my first real emergency call. The training proved […]
My Take on Primitive Cooking: Ancient Techniques That Work Anywhere
I’ll start with complete honesty – I’ve never been stuck somewhere with zero cooking equipment. My outdoor experiences always included at least one piece of gear: maybe an old tin can, my battered billy pot, or that small fuel stove I pack religiously. That compact burner uses petroleum spirit and has never let me down […]
How to Choose a Sleeping Bag That Won’t Let You Freeze in Cold Weather
My first winter camping trip taught me something I’ll never forget – your sleeping bag isn’t just gear, it’s your lifeline. I was younger then and thought I knew everything about outdoor equipment. That night in minus twenty-eight degree weather, shivering inside what I thought was a decent sleeping bag, changed my perspective completely. Since […]
Layering System for the Northwest Territories: Stay Warm Without the Bulk
Living in the Northwest Territories has shown me that getting through the brutal cold—and even enjoying it—really comes down to one key thing: knowing how to layer your clothing right. When it hits -40°C, it’s not the biggest, puffiest parka that saves you. It’s how well you’ve mastered the layering system to stay warm and […]
Essential Wilderness Prepping: Survive & Thrive Off-Grid
I didn’t start out knowing a thing about surviving in the wild. My first camping trip was not the best, but it became clear there are things that need to be learned. Why does essential wilderness prepping matter? Because stuffing random gear in a backpack won’t save you. What matters is actually knowing the terrain, […]
Essential Bug-Out Bags for Northwest Territories Survival
After decades in the Northwest Territories’ wilderness, I’ve learned that survival here requires careful preparation. The harsh northern environment of Hay River can transform rapidly from serene to dangerous, demanding readiness for any situation. Bug-Out Bags for Northwest Survival are essential tools for anyone living in this region Living here means facing distinct challenges: spring […]
Essential Paddling Skills for the Wilderness Explorer
The bitter wind whips across my face as I stand at the edge of a frozen Canadian lake, where I’m taking a kayak and canoe course. Along with my fellow participants, I’m learning the winter wilderness paddling skills that are essential for correctly paddling and steering these water crafts. One of the most challenging aspects […]