Book excerpt: A leading survival skills teacher offers a realistic guide to wilderness survival techniques and bushcraft—so you can fend for yourself in any situation. In challenging situations, a survival mindset—like being prepared, having confidence in your own abilities, and being adaptable—can be as much of a life-saver as the most expensive equipment. Add to this Joe O’Leary's sound advice and knowledge of survival and bushcraft techniques, you will have the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way. Written in clear, easy-to-follow text, The Wilderness Survival Guide focuses on the realities of using wilderness survival techniques not just in a genuine “survival situation” but also to enhance any outdoor experience, from a hike in the country to camping in the wild. Here, you’ll learn how to: • Use bushcraft tools to build a shelter and improvise equipment • Light a warming fire (and keep it lit) in bad conditions • Find safe water to drink • Hunt and forage for wild food—and cook what you catch or find With some practical experience and the techniques presented in this handy guide, you’ll be able to fend for yourself—in any situation.