Something I have been thinking about lately, given the bitter cold that the country got blasted with not long ago, is knowing your environment; more specifically, knowing the inherent hazards and benefits of it. This can, in my opinion, make or break you in a situation gone bad. It can also be beneficial to you on a day trip or weekend outing. I understand that this might sound like a simple concept but please indulge me.
I will pose a question here: How well do you know the flora and fauna of your local and designated bugout environment? Do you know what hazardous animals and insects are local to your area? More importantly, could you recognize them? Do you know what type of places they prefer to use as lairs? Knowing these things can help you avoid these potential hazards. Getting bitten by a rattlesnake or a Brown Recluse, for example, is not a situation any of us want to get mixed up in.
As far as local plant life, do you know what type of plants to avoid? Can you recognize, for instance, poison ivy? Would you recognize it in the fall as the leaves turn? Many areas have unique indigenous plants. For example, where I grew up we had a vicious little plant we referred to as a Bull Nettle. They look pretty interesting, with a soft, downy appearing fuzz on them and small white flowers. This fuzzy appearance actually contains stinging hairs that are akin to getting hit by a jellyfish (I have been hit by both and can compare!)
I love the outdoors. I spend every bit of time I can spare outside. While spending time out of doors is often relaxing for many of us, it behooves us to remember that nature also deserves and commands respect. Not all creatures and plants are human friendly. Knowing and recognizing this can prevent serious discomfort and possibly grave illness.