What does the rule of threes state?

The rule of threes is a survival guideline that states that a person can survive for three minutes without air, three hours without shelter in a harsh environment, and three days without water.

The three minutes without air refers to the amount of time a person can survive without oxygen. Oxygen is essential for life, and without it, a person will die in three minutes. This time frame can be extended if the person is in icy water, as the cold temperatures can slow down the body’s metabolic rate and conserve oxygen.

The three hours without shelter in a harsh environment refers to the amount of time a person can survive in extreme temperatures without protection from the elements. This time frame can be extended if the person is in icy water, as the cold temperatures can slow down the body’s metabolic rate and conserve energy.

The three days without water refers to the amount of time a person can survive without drinking water. This time frame can be extended if the person is sheltered from a harsh environment, as the lack of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures can slow down the body’s metabolic rate and conserve water.

The rule of threes is an important guideline for survival in extreme conditions. It is important to remember that these guidelines are only estimates, and that a person’s individual physiology and environment can affect their ability to survive.