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SURVIVAL SUPPLIES
The best chance for survival belongs to the group that works TOGETHER and has a leader who accepts responsibility for the group. When you are the senior person, accept responsibility for your group by taking steps to lead members to work together. Organize group survival activities. Group sur- vival depends largely upon the organization of its manpower. Organized action by group members who know what to do and when to do it, during ordinary circumstances and during a crisis, prevents panic. Keeping the group informed, devising a plan, and sticking to the plan helps achieve organization. Assign each person a task that fits his or her personal qualifications. If one person can catch fish but cannot cook, let that person provide the fish. Always learn each member’s special skills so that you can use each person to the greatest benefit of the group.
Assume command and establish a chain of command that includes all members of the group.
Good leadership lessens panic, confusion, and disorganization. Make certain each person knows his or her position in the chain of command and is familiar with the duties of every other person, especially your duties as the senior member. Under no circumstances leave leadership of the group to chance acceptance by some member after a situation arises. Maintain respect for your leadership by using it wisely; be the leader and set the example. Group survival is a test of effective leadership. Watch out for problems that could turn into serious
arguments.
Keep troublemakers from attracting undue attention, and keep those who may “crack up” from disrupting the group. Prevent care- lessness caused by fatigue, hunger, and cold. Know yourself and the members of your group; take responsibility for each person’s welfare. Develop a feeling of mutual dependence within the group by stressing that each person depends on the others for survival.
Emphasize that the group will not leave the wounded or injured behind—that each member’s responsibility is to make sure the group returns intact.
A feeling of mutual dependence fosters high morale and unity. Each member receives support and strength from the others. Make the decisions no matter what the situation. However, base your decisions on the infor- mation and advice of other members of the group—much as admirals make decisions based on input from their staff. Above all else, never appear indecisive. If situations require you to act immediately, consider the facts and make decisions rapidly. The ability to think on your feet usually determines successful survival.
This text is courtesy of http://www.tpub.com/content/advancement/14145/css/14145_174.htm
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