I think it's odd that you never thought about it before. I think everyone who is planning to survive should be planning for the worst. It seems to me that many people are too optimistic in expecting to be rescued relatively quickly.

I'm not an optimist. I don't bet all my chips on being rescued. That's why every single piece of gear I buy is of the best quality. I don't care what it costs. I don't want to be alone in the wilderness with half-assed craftsmanship.

Another thing I do is have a variety of fire-starting tools and an order in which they are to be used. Whenever possible, I will use my magnifier. It will last forever. If there's no sunshine, I will use my Strike Force. Next in line is my magnesium bar. And finally a Bic lighter. No matter how long I'm out there, I know I'll always have fire.