Ray Mears: Who are you?

Ray Mears grew up on the North Downs where he took great interest in the forest, tracking foxes and learning about the flora and fauna from an early age. After hitting the library to read up on every survival technique known to man, Mears started practising these ancient skills and travelled the world with them. Travel enabled him to experience hunting and tracking as well as learning the traditions associated with the skills. Ray has always had a huge respect for indigenous people and culture. And I bet you didn't know he is also an expert in botanical science and a professional photographer!

School of Wilderness Bushcraft

Ray started the School of Wilderness Bushcraft in 1983 where he teaches survival skills and Bushcraft. Instead of teaching specifics, Ray prefers to teach how to be practical and resourceful. It's about being able to survive and seeing solutions rather than learning tips one by one. Ray believes in the 'art of the possible'.

Top Tips

· The number one survival priority is shelter. Before you do anything else, a base or camp must be established. You can weave a shelter from branches and cover them with flora. Or put your tent up!

· Water! Humans can only survive a couple of days without water so make sure you source your supply ASAP. Water should always be boiled to kill bacteria and if possible, treated with disinfectant. If desperate, you can always distil your urine...

· Get that fire roaring! Without fire you'll have no clean water, warmth or means to roast that fish you've spent hours catching. Try and create some friction to release a spark over tinder.

· The last survival priority is food. Humans can last for weeks without a morsel passing the lips. Read up on trapping, fishing and hunting techniques before you head out - or else its nettle soup for you!

· It's best to travel light but always pack a knife, first aid supplies, compass, pen, water, whistle, matches or lighter and kerosine if you plan on cooking.

· Don't go solo! It helps morale to be surrounded if you are out in the wild.

· Bring cash and credit cards just in case you change your mind and check into the closest B+B!

· Let the wildlife be. Hopefully they will leave you to it too.

· Wear a cap or headscarf to avoid sunstroke and wear plenty factor 30.

Find out more

Ray has hosted several series including 'Tracks', 'World of Survival', 'The Essential Guide to Rocks' and 'Extreme Survival'.
Ray Mears
BBC: Guide to rocks