Garth Hattingh, author of the bestselling Top Climbs of the World as well as the successful Climber's Handbook and the new Extreme Rock and Ice, is not only an expert climber, but also a diver, caver, mountain-rescue team member and former commando. He knows how to live in the bush - and how to get out again safely. He lives in Pretoria, South Africa.

Art of Survival 8 The essentials for survival; learn to avoid disasters through physical preparedness, the honing of outdoor skills, careful planning and seeking the advice of the experts. Get the Gear 8 A guide to tailoring personal and group kit for single- and multi-day excursions as well as all types of terrain, how to select useful tools, and putting together a survival kit. Making a move 28 How to decide on whether to move or to stay. Learn to improvise while crossing difficult terrain carrying loads, traversing major obstacles, navigating via maps, compass, the planets and the stars. Communication and Rescue 42 Guidelines for signalling to potential rescuers from whistles, mirrors and fire to modern electronic devices. Marking your territory for rescuers, tips for facilitating helicopter and sea rescues. Survival Priorities 58 Improvisation is the key to identifying suitable clothing, and finding shelter, water and food. Advice trapping and snaring, building protective structures, purifying water and preparing food. First Aid 72 Outlined here are the ABC principles, CPR, patient stabilization, treatment for hot- and cold-related conditions, and dealing with bites and stings. Also, recommendations for a first-aid kit. Survival Disasters 86 How to deal with unavoidable natural disasters; sinking craft, raging waters, avalanches, fire and lightning, hurricanes and tornadoes. Make the best of the situation using an action checklist. Glossary 93 Index 95