A hiker named Scott A. Hern, who had been missing for two weeks in Kentucky's Red River Gorge, was found alive after search teams heard his cries for help.

Hern, 48, had gone hiking and was last seen on July 5; his family reported him missing when he didn't return on his designated date. A search effort began, which included tracking his footprints and using dogs to locate him. Despite initial fears that the operation would turn into a recovery mission, rescuers were able to find him on July 20. He was hoisted to safety by helicopter and required medical attention but was in relatively good spirits when rescued.

The rescue team described the successful extraction as a miracle, noting Hern had survived without food or water for 12-14 days.

The Survival Triangle

There are 3 items humans need to survive: oxygen, food and water. This is known as the triangle of life.

The average human can only survive without oxygen for 3-5 minutes before brain damage occurs. After about 10 minutes, the chances of survival decrease significantly, and permanent damage or death can occur. While there have been rare cases of people surviving past that, especially when in cold environments, this is not the norm.

A person can typically survive without water for about 3 to 7 days, depending on various factors such as age, health, activity level, and environmental conditions. In extreme temperatures or if a person is physically active, survival time may be shorter. Hydration is crucial for maintaining bodily functions, so it's important to have access to fresh water and drink water regularly.

The length of time a person can survive without food varies significantly based on several factors, including their overall health, hydration levels, and body fat reserves. Generally, a person can survive without food for about 1 to 2 months, provided they have access to water. It's important to note that while survival without food is possible for some time, the body will suffer from nutrient deficiencies, leading to serious health issues and eventually death if food intake is not restored.

Precautionary Supply List and To-Do's for Solo Campers/Hikers

Here’s a comprehensive checklist for solo campers and hikers to prepare for unexpected situations like injury or getting lost:

Before You Go

The steps you take before exploring the wilderness alone, or with a partner, can prove just as important as what you do while you are out and about.

• Plan Your Route
  • Research trails and terrain
  • Share your itinerary with someone
• Check Weather Conditions
  • Look for forecasts
  • Prepare for temperature changes
• Pack Essentials
  • Map and compass (or GPS)
  • Fully charged phone with offline maps (or sat. phone)
  • Emergency contact information

Clothing

Weather and temperatures can change on a dime. Knowing where you are going is only the first step. Make sure you have all the right clothing to accommodate any potential weather changes in your region.

• Wear Appropriate Gear
  • Moisture-wicking clothing
  • Insulating layers (fleece or down)
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm hat and gloves (if needed)
• Extra Clothing
  • Spare socks
  • Base layers
  • Extra warm layer

Food and Water

2 of the 3 sides of the life triangle. In overall survival, food & water are the top 2 priorities needed to survive in even everyday life. Make sure you have enough for your planned trip, as well as additional rations incase your trip must be extended due to injury, getting lost, or any another accident.

• Water Supply
  • Bring a gallon a Day Per Person
  • Carry a water bottle or hydration system (to fill up or to use as a canteen for natural freshwater sources)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
• Food Supplies
  • High-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars)
  • Easy-to-cook meals (dehydrated food, instant oats)
  • Additional food in case of extended stay

Shelter and Sleep

Whether in the woods, mountains, flat lands or even on the ocean, protection from the elements is the next primary concern after food & water. Exposure to animals, sun, snow, and other extreme weather conditions kill hundreds of people a year. A shelter, of even the most basic kind, can be lifesaving, especially if you have food and water to last.

• Tent or Shelter
  • Lightweight tent or tarp
  • Ground mat or sleeping pad
  • Knowledge to make a primitive shelter
• Sleeping Gear
  • Sleeping bag suitable for the season
  • Pillow or stuff sack filled with clothes
  • Knowledge of wilderness materials to make a bed

First Aid and Safety

Injuries can strike anyone at any time. No matter how physically fit or muscled you may be, accidents leading to minor or serious injuries can happen to anyone. Having the supplied to make it until rescue teams arrive or patch yourself enough to find your way out yourself is vital.

• First Aid Kit
  • Band-aids, gauze, antiseptic wipes
  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
  • Any personal medications
• Survival Gear
  • Whistle (to signal for help)
  • Multi-tool or knife
  • Fire starter (matches, lighter, fire starter kit)

Emergency Equipment

When lost or injured too badly to move, having some of these emergency supplies could allow you to be able to signal any potential rescuers or passersby.

• Light Sources
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Glow Sticks
• Reflective Gear
  • Emergency Mylar blanket
  • Signal mirror
• Communication Gear
  • Emergency Communication Device (satellite phone or personal locator beacon)
  • Charged Cell Phone

Navigation Tools

Unless you are a true native to the land, everyone could benefit from some navigational aids. These tools can help you get out of a bind if you get lost or feel you are off course.

• Map and Compass
• Detailed topographic maps of the area
• GPS Device
  • Ensure its fully charged with spare batteries

Miscellaneous

Here is a list of some miscellaneous items that are small enough and could prove useful to explorers in remote areas.

• Trash Bags
  • Leave no trace: pack out all trash
  • Also works as a substitute rain jacket or rainwater catcher
• Notebook and Pen
  • For notes or leaving messages if needed

If Lost or Injured

If you find yourself lost or injured in a way where you feel you cannot get back on track or are too injured to travel, remember the general rule - stay put. Here are some more tips.

• Stay Calm
• Assess Your Situation
• Use Your Whistle and Signal Mirror to Attract Attention
• Stay Put if Safe - Do not wander too far, as this makes it harder for rescuers to find you.

By preparing thoroughly and packing these essentials, solo campers and hikers can improve their chances of staying safe and managing unexpected challenges in the wilderness.