At one time I carried a homemade emergency ration, made of ground parched corn, whole-milk powder and grated chocolate. A half cup of this, with a handful of raisins and plenty of water, would see me through from one mealtime to the next. I could carry several days' supply in a small waterproof sack and, while I never had any real need for this ration, it was a comforting thing to have. I have never tried any of the rations used by the armed forces but there is a possibility that some of them might fit into the picture as a hunter's ration, if they are not too heavy. The hunter's gun becomes quite a burden as night nears, so weight should be considered when planning the kind and amount of food to be carried on a hunt. Survival instructions issued to fliers by the Government could be of great benefit to a lost hunter. While these instructions are based on the possession of a survival kit, many of the suggestions may be adapted to the equipment which the hunter might have with him. Knowledge of this sort, even if never used, can do no harm to anyone who has any occasion to enter the woods.

One of the best and most useful things which a hunter can have is a large supply of ingenuity. The ability to improvise, the "know how" to "make do" is often invaluable in the case that any emergency should occur. Many people do not have any idea of what to do in case of an injury to a companion. Others might spend a night with a bare log for a wind break when a few poles, in the right position, covered with brush, would enlarge the shelter and provide a partial roof to add to their comfort. Others might find a pool full of trout in water so deep that the concussion from a rifle bullet would not kill them, and they would go hungry, not knowing that a sharpened stick, with the point hardened in the fire, could be used as a spear to kill and retrieve a fish for dinner. This ability to improvise often means the difference between downright misery and comparative comfort.

Prevention is the best cure for many things and getting lost is one of them, so before starting on a hunt, study a map of the area to be hunted. Note the direction which you take when leaving camp to hunt. Note the direction of any roads and streams near the camp. Be sure to carry an ample supply of matches with a reserve in a waterproof container. Matches embedded, or dipped, in paraffin wax are good and almost anyone can prepare them. The wax is an aid in starting a fire. Carry a good hunting knife. Have one with a heavy blade that will stand hard usage.

Be sure that you know your gun. Sight it in before the hunt and find out where the bullets will hit at different ranges. Take along something to eat for an emergency, even if it is no more than a sandwich. Carry a compass and trust it without reservation. If you do become confused in the woods, consider it in this manner: You are not lost, but others do not know where you are. The camp is lost but you can make another camp where you are. You do not need human companionship. You can take care of yourself without modern conveniences. Don't worry about your situation. Let others do the worrying.

If you can do these things and if you have an elementary knowledge of woodcraft, you can do them. You may live to look back on what might have been a terrifying experience as an amusing and not too unpleasant incident.

One of the best and most useful things which a hunter can have is a large supply of ingenuity. The ability to improvise, the "know how" to "make do" is often invaluable in the case that any emergency should occur.