1) COMBUSTION:

The ability to build a fire is an essential survival skill and there are several tools that you can use to start a flame. While matches and a lighter are quick ways to start a fire, it is better if you have a fire starting kit that is not dependent on fuel or fails to work when it gets wet. A good device is a Ferrocerium Rod that will give off how sparks even when wet, plus it lasts for a long time.

You will need dry tinder as well, which you can gather from surrounding trees and logs, or bring with you cotton balls soaked in Vaseline, quick tinder, fat wood, or other type of accelerant.

2) CONTAINER:

You must carry a container to hold fresh water which will help you stay alive. Your container should be sturdy enough to place in a fire and can then be sealed to protect the contents inside. Basically your container will be used to boil water, and cook meals. You need a container crafted from stainless steel and made from one piece so that it holds together even under the worst conditions.

3) CORDAGE:

A little rope can go a long way to securing a shelter tarp and binding materials together. Rather than using traditional rope use paracord or #36 bankline. It comes in 100′ lengths, is stronger than rope and takes up much less space. Both are made of multiple strands making them more valuable than rope.

4) COVER:

Your cover begins with the clothes on your back, and any shelter you can find. In cold, wet, and windy conditions you will need more to stay alive. Space blankets have been the choice for years, but they rip easily. There are step up emergency blankets that are constructed for two people and are much better. One side is silver mylar to reflect your body heat back on you and the other side is orange to aide in your rescue.

5) CUTTING:

You will need a tool for cutting which is one of the most important tasks you will need to do when trying to survive. Your cutting tool should be large enough to process kindling and firewood, yet small enough to make small or fine cuts. Preferably, the blade should be crafted from carbon steel so that it is durable and dependable.

6) CANDLING:

Although you could use a flashlight, this means more like a headlamp that provides ample hands free lighting. Headlamps provide you with the illumination shelter, make repairs and necessary to set up without having to prop up a flashlight. Headlamps also make great signaling devices.

7) CLOTH NEEDLE:

Although a sail needle is not something you would think of in an URBAN setting, it is a great toll if you rip your tarp or poncho or clothes. It takes up no room. No need to carry extra thread as your paracord has 7 or 8 strands of cord that can be used for repairs.  And you can tape the needle to your knife or sheath. It also has great application for medical needs like removing splinters, thorns, and stingers.

8) CARGO TAPE:

Cargo tape or Duct tape as we more commonly know it, is one of the most versatile of the C’s. Get a good respected brand like Gorilla tape. It is flammable so a little ball burn for several minutes while you stoke the flame with larger materials. Cargo tape will also repair rips and holes in clothing and gear, as well as hold on bandages and splints.

9) COMPASS:

Yes, a compass has its uses in urban settings, especially if there are road closures and hazards that are not passable. A compass can help you avoid lateral drift and the mirror will help you inspect for ticks and help you if there is something in your eye. plus, the compass as a magnifying spot that allows you to use the sun to start a fire.

10) COTTON:

You need 2-3 bandannas. They can be used when wet to keep the sun off your head, made into slings, cut into strips for bandages, and cut into 2″ x 2″ squares to be burned in a tin container (like a mint box) when placed in a fire to make char cloth.