This blog is about surviving the cold weather if your get into an accident and have to wait for emergency personal to arrive.
I was a member of Search & Rescue many years ago and know that being prepared is very important.
Below are some tips I wanted to pass on:
Winter survival (1 – 12 hour survival)
In order of importance
Safety:
Make sure you and others are safely out of harms way.
First Aid:
Unless it is life or death, this would have to be assessed at the scene and a decision made. The decision would be made by weighing the following: Severity of injuries, wait time for rescue, temperature, weather, time of day as well as other possibilities.
Shelter:
This should be your car unless the accident is that severe. If your car can’t be used, make a shelter with the tarp, paracord and supports. (See example) This would keep you a bit protected from the elements. With a fire or heater, it will keep you from freezing.
Fire/Heat source:
This is a survival must. It keeps you warm, dry and makes water from the snow.
Melt Snow:
This could be a constant water supply.
Food & Water:
Always try to have energy water & food bars or trail mix in your car in case of emergency. Water is more important then food for the first 2 days. (Actually weeks, but that is another topic).
How to make a heat source - Clay flowerpot heater:
This will help keep you warm while you wait for rescue. With this heater, from just from 4 - 6 tea light candles you can stay warm. Important: Don’t leave this unattended and avoid touching without gloves. They get very hot and it is an open flame. When I tested mine, I had the outside temperature of the clay pot at 92°C (195° F).
Emergency Kit and cost:
Heavy Duty Tarp – 12’ x 16’ (Many uses) - $35.00
Paracord – 100’ - $8.00
Fire starter – Lighter, flint & steel, matches - $2.00
Candles – Large or tea light work - $2.00
Clay flowerpot and tray – See picture above (Makes a great heater) - $10.00
Emergency Blanket - $7.49
Snow shovel - $10.00
Water & Energy Bars - $10.00
Basic first aid kit - $15.00
For around $100.00 you can be set-up for emergencies (This works for at home as well).
Dale Winhold