We don’t think much about survival skills in our on-demand society. Everything happens at the touch of a screen, and we usually have our basic needs met with some ease. But what happens when you’re lost, stranded, or injured and you need to keep yourself safe from harm?

Do you know the basic skills necessary to stay alive long enough to get to safety? Most people can’t say with any certainty that they would know how to survive in a wilderness situation.

Many people even believe survival myths that could hurt or kill them. That’s why we’ve created this list of 50 of the most important wilderness survival tips that could mean the difference between life and death.

1. Stay Calm

Managing your attitude is key. Stay calm and take stock of your resources and immediate survival needs. It’s okay to be a little afraid, but don’t allow yourself to succumb to it. Determination is survival.

2. Make Shelter

Ideally, you’ve brought a tarp or other item that can be used as shelter. If not, you’ll need to build something from your available resources. A lean-to is insufficient on its own, so add sides and insulation by filling gaps between logs and sticks with smaller twigs, pine needles, and leaves.

3. Collect Water

Finding water is your second highest survival priority. Be wary of standing water such as lakes or puddles, as these can be full of pathogens and bacteria.

A running stream or river is best, but even this water should be purified before drinking. Boil the water over a fire, or make a water filter (see below).

4. Start a Fire

Start your fire with a small tinder bundle made of leaves, grass, small twigs, or pine needles. With luck, you’ve brought along a flint and steel or a lighter. If not, improvise a magnifying glass with water and a clear plastic bag to amplify the sun’s rays and start a fire.