Rule of Three

 

The rule of three for survival is a basic guideline that outlines the maximum time a human being can survive without specific necessities. It can be a valuable tool for those who love outdoor adventures, people who live in regions prone to natural disasters, or anyone who wants to prepare for emergencies.

The rule of three consists of three fundamental principles, which are:

3 seconds to decide to defend yourself In life-threatening situations, you have to make quick decisions. You have just a few seconds to decide whether you need to defend yourself or not. The decision can be life-saving, especially when facing immediate danger, such as an attacker or a wild animal. This means you need to be prepared mentally and physically to act quickly. ( Actually, in life-threatening situations, a person has less than 3 seconds- more like 3 moments but for consistency within the context of this article, I referenced 3 seconds)

3 minutes without Oxygen

Oxygen is essential for sustaining life, and the human body's reliance on this vital element is immediate and non-negotiable. Without air for a short duration, the body's cells rapidly face oxygen deprivation, leading to severe consequences such as brain damage, organ failure, and death. The rule of threes underscores the critical importance of air, emphasizing its immediate necessity for human survival.

3 hours in inclement weather Bad weather can be detrimental to survival, and it can happen unexpectedly. You may be hiking in the mountains or camping in a forest, and suddenly the weather changes, bringing heavy rain or snow. In such situations, you have just three hours to protect yourself from exposure to the elements. Otherwise, you can suffer from hypothermia, frostbite, or other weather-related conditions.

Therefore, carrying appropriate clothing, including raincoats, windbreakers, and thermal underwear, is essential for an adventure. You should also learn to build a shelter and fire to keep yourself warm.

3 days without water Water is a crucial element for human survival. The human body can only survive for three days without water. Dehydration can lead to several medical conditions, including headaches, dizziness, and kidney failure.

When preparing for outdoor activities, you must carry enough water and other fluids to stay hydrated throughout the journey. You can also learn how to find and purify water in the wilderness if you run out of supplies.

3 weeks without food Although food is essential for survival, it is the least immediate necessity in the rule of three. The human body can survive for up to three weeks without food. However, you should still pay attention to nutrition. Your body needs energy to keep going, especially during long outdoor adventures.

When preparing for outdoor activities, carry enough food supplies throughout your journey. You can also learn how to hunt, fish, and forage for food in the wilderness if you plan to stay there for an extended period.

The rule of three for survival is a simple yet essential guideline for anyone who loves outdoor adventures or wants to prepare for emergencies. By following this rule, you can be sure you have what it takes to survive. Remember to carry appropriate gear and supplies, and learn basic survival skills to increase your chances of making it through difficult situations.