Jungle country is not friendly to man, but it is possible to survive there. You must have the right equipment and you must know a few important things about woodcraft. Then your chances of staying alive are very good. No one should go into the jungle without the right equipment. You need lightweight clothing, a good knife and a compass. Fishhooks and a line, matches and a raincoat are necessary too. In the jungle you can get hopelessly lost within five minutes after leaving a known landmark. That is why you should always carry a compass. In open country, during the day, you can tell which way to go by studying the sun. At night the stars guide to direction. But in most places where it is impossible to see the sun or the stars, you must check your position by the compass. Keep alert. Watch the ground in front of you carefully. Stop and listen now and again. Avoid haste, and rest often. In a place that is hot and humid, the person who sets a fast pace will soon become tired. A steady, even pace is wisest in the long run. If you lose your way, don’t be afraid. Try to decide how long it has been since you were sure of your position. Mark the spot where you are with blazes on a tree and then you can begin retracing your steps. Except in an emergency, never try to travel through the jungle at night. Whenever possible, it is wise to follow streams and rivers that are going in your general direction. This may cause you many extra miles of travel. But in the end it will save time and energy. Nothing is more exhausting than hacking a trail cross-country through unbroken jungle.