Essential survival tips to keep you safe in emergencies - We hope that we never have to face a life threatening situation, but it's good to know some tips and tricks in case we find ourselves in a sticky situation. Click here to learn about the life hacks that may save your life!

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The survival rules of threes - According to the Urban Survival Site, the survival rule of threes means that a human being can survive three minutes without air, three hours without shelter (in extreme climacteric conditions), three days without water, and three weeks without food.

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Flashlight - A flashlight does more than provide light. If you feel threatened, you can use it to blind an assailant or as a weapon.

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Superglue - According to the Mayo Clinic website, small wounds can be treated with superglue in extreme situations where you can't access an emergency doctor.

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Eye contact - According to Business Insider online, the chances of surviving an attacker are greater if you remain calm and maintain eye contact with the attacker.

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Emergency water - Condoms are very elastic and can be filled with around two liters of water. According to several survival forums, condoms should always be part of the hiking/camping kit.

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Always swim parallel to the coast - When you're swimming in the sea, always do it parallel to the beach. If you grow tired, it is easier to get back to land and help can arrive faster.

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Keys - If you've parked your car somewhere dark, make sure you have your keys to hand when getting back to it. They're a potential weapon and you will be able to access the vehicle more quickly than if they are at the bottom of a bag.

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Emergency exits - In public or crowded spaces, always make note of the emergency exits. You never know when you may need to use them.

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House locks - If you receive strangers at home, make sure to check the locks after they leave. You never know if they've doctored the lock to reenter and take items.

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Don't eat snow - If you're in a cold environment and you're thirsty, don't eat the snow. Otherwise, your body will get colder and you risk hypothermia.

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Apple cider vinegar - According to the Livestrong website, apple cider vinegar has been used to treat wounds for hundreds of years. Some studies say that it helps fight bacteria. It is great in a pinch but shouldn't replace mainstream medicines.

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Harmonica - Not only can a harmonica cheer you up when you're alone, it can also be used to open bottles or as a finger splint.

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Warm & dry - Many people don't realize they're suffering from hypothermia until it's too late. You should always pack adequate clothing and waterproof boots if you go camping.

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Glass signal mirror and whistle - According to 'The Key To Survival,' these two objects are essential when going on a walk. The glass signal mirror can reflect sunlight and the whistle can make a loud noise if you need to call for help.

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Baking soda - According to CBS News, baking soda can help put out small flames, but it has to be applied very specifically.

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Fences and streams - If you get lost during a hike, look for fences or river streams. Besides being a source of water, streams may run along inhabited places. Fences may be surrounding houses or land where there are people that may help you.

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Keep your hands outside your pockets when going down stairs - It doesn't take much to slip and fall on stairs. You want your hands to be free in case it happens!

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Sanitary pads to treat big wounds - According to Snopes, during the first World War, Kimberly-Clark developed a material that could be used to absorb blood for use in conflict. After the war, that product started being used in menstrual pads.

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Keep your relatives updated - One of the worst mistakes one can do when traveling, hiking, or camping, is to not let anyone know. If get lost, it takes longer to find your whereabouts if noone knows where you are.

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Point at someone - According to the website safeopedia, if you ever find yourself in an emergency situation and you're surround by people, point at someone specific and tell them to ask for medical help. That person will feel more responsible for helping you.

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Potatoes - According to website Live Science, a man survived for two months on potatoes alone. This isn't recommended for a long period of time, but when it comes to survival, the potato can be a strong ally.

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Plane - According to Time magazine, statistics show that the middle seats situated at the back of the plane have a mortality rate of 28% in case of crash. This makes them the safest seats.

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Chewing gum -

Chewing gum can help reduce stress and appetite. It can also work as adhesive tape in a pinch.

See also: Times in history when scientists got it wrong 

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