How many of you have an outdoor rule you live by simply because when you were younger, someone told you to do it that way? Do others at camp look at you a little strangely when you mention it? Have you ever checked whether that information is true? Today, we are going to examine some of those myths and see whether they are true or false.

Moss always grows on the north side of the trees. Although this is based in part on scientific evidence, it is not entirely true. Certainly not fail-proof enough to risk your life on. While it is true that in the Northern Hemisphere moss tends to grow on the north side of the trees, because it is more shaded, there are many other factors to consider. Other sources of shade, moisture and even the type of moss all determine how and where it grows. In a swampy or shaded area, moss may very well grow on all sides of a tree.

Flowing water leads to safety. At one time, this may have been a good bet, but it was still not as fail-proof as it sounds. The theory is that towns were likely to be along water, so if you followed a water source, you would eventually hit civilization. Overall, this is true, but the problem arises when you consider how far away that civilization might be and what the journey might entail. It could be miles to any town. The journey may be more dangerous than the conditions you already face.

Speaking of flowing water, how many of you have learned that flowing water is safe to drink? Again, based partly on science but not fully seated in fact. Yes, flowing water is usually safer than stagnant water. The latter is more likely to hold collected contaminants, be polluted by animal carcasses, or contain unhealthy runoff. But this does not mean that flowing water is safe; it just doesn’t look as dangerous. Even the purest mountain stream can contain contaminants, and the risk increases as it flows farther from its source. The bottom line is that any potential water source carries risks, and the risk of incapacitating the unlucky person who drinks from it.

Blue or black berries are safe to eat. Nature tends to warn animals of danger, often through bright colors. Some of the most beautiful animals and plants are also the deadliest. This observation led early outdoorsmen to claim red and orange berries were deadly, yellow and green berries were questionable, and blue or black berries were safe. Unfortunately, this is not true. Cherries and tomatoes are not only safe but a regular part of many people’s diets. On the flip side, nightshade, Virginia creeper, and pokeweed all produce dark blue or black berries and are among the most toxic plants you will encounter.

If you find yourself lost or stranded in the wilderness, the best thing you can do is remain calm, stay where you are, and eat or drink only what you have brought with you.