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SINK OR SWIM How To Cre ate You r Own Flotation Devic e
Y
By Kristin Webb-Hollering
Okay, unless you’re the next action star, the chances of being trapped on
OU AWAKE TO THE MOURNFUL CRY OF SEAGULLS. YOU SIT UP, LOOK AROUND AT SOME OF THE LUSH-
an island are small, but there are many situations in which you might have to
EST VEGETATION AND THE MOST PRISTINE BEACH
cross dangerous waters in the wild. Sometimes understanding the dangers and
YOU’VE EVER SEEN AND REALIZE YOU’RE IN PAR-
knowing how to react can mean the difference between life and death. If you
ADISE… EVEN IF YOU’RE ALONE IN THE MIDDLE OF
have little or no resources available, it doesn’t mean you have to be stuck on
THE PACIFIC. THE 45-FOOT SWELLS THAT RIPPED YOUR
the shore.
CRUISE SHIP INTO PIECES SHATTERED YOUR VACATION, AND NOW YOU FIND YOURSELF HERE.
Consider these creative ideas to float across the waves to safety before you are cast away.
You may never find yourself on an island, but you could find yourself here. Be prepared.
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
104
“Split trees, logs, and large branches found in the woods can be thatched together or fashioned into a skiff.”
YOUR OPTIONS If you must cross water to get to a safe place, there are many things that can be turned into your lifesaver. Clothes, driftwood, empty containers, or even sticks and grasses can be formed into a raft. If you aren’t lucky enough to have an American Red Cross-certified flotation device, the Red Cross suggests these great alternatives.
CLOTHES Clothes are usually the handiest and in warm weather are not necessary to cross water and retain body temperature. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Rafts can be made out of a number of items.
If you’re wearing pants, they can be easily and quickly modeled into a floating tube. First, tie the leg openings, pull up the zipper and button the waist. Next, wet the pants a little. Rapidly swing the pants to inflate with air, close the waistband tightly and quickly submerge them in the water. Consequently, you have the perfect inflatable to hold you above water. Another alternative is to keep your clothing on and inflate them on your body. “If you have a shirt on, you can blow into it down the neckline after securing it at the waistline, either by tying or tucking it into your pants,” says Janelle King, swimming instructor and former Red Cross-certified lifeguard. “The shirt will expand and help you float for short intervals.”
MILK JUGS, BAGS Many times after a flood or hurricane, trash litters the edge of water that must be crossed to get to safety. Several of these castaway items can be utilized to ford a river, lake or stream in your path. Plastic milk gallon jugs filled with air will bear you for a while or at least to cover a short distance. Grocery bags
RAFT-BUILDING
101 S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
In the wilderness and along most shorelines, tall sturdy grasses—like cattails and American dune grass—abound. These
types of grasses are thick and strong, and they can be used as your rope to tie. Sadly, along most rivers and sea banks, a plethora of trash and waste debris, both natural and artificial, cover the area. This survivalist’s
treasure can be sifted through to find the perfect base for your raft. If you want to make it particularly buoyant and can find them, tying a couple of milk jugs to your base will really keep it above the water. If
105
grasses are not available, shoelaces, socks, belts, and necklaces can also make great rope. Securing your driftwood or other large object with the homemade ropes can take you across the waves to safety.
securely sealed, filled with air and tied at the waist act as a tube. These are strewn everywhere and easily kept in a pocket for later uses. Lastly, most other plastic or light metal containers like those used for gasoline or detergents can be closed and filled with air are possibilities for a speedy escape.
FLOAT NATURAL RESOURCES
BE CREATIVE, SEARCH
If hiking through the wilderness or surfing along the shore are your
Whether you’re alone in the wild or stranded in the middle of the
cup of tea, many natural resources make excellent floatation devices.
ocean, there’s always a road to safety. When you’re down to the wire and
Split trees, logs and large branches found in the woods can be
your path to life means crossing water, look at your surroundings, check
thatched together or fashioned into a skiff. Even small pieces of a broken
your belongings and survey the area. An answer or clue to your survival is
boat, catamaran or surfboard will carry you to safety if you find yourself
within reach if you know where to look.
stuck out at sea. Although you may see it as a movie myth, escaping on the old standby of driftwood is typically a safe way to shore.
COLD WATER CAN HASTEN PROBLEMS If you’re forced into a situation in which you must stay afloat in water to survive, always take into account the temperature of the water. Flotation devices and the ability to swim are helpful, but if the water is very cold or hot, neither of these lifesaving essentials will matter unless you know how to adapt your body to the water temperature. When you’re crossing a cold body of water, keeping your head above the water line really can save your life. “Many great swimmers drown while treading water because they get cold water in their ears and lose their equilibrium,” says Janelle King, swimming instructor and former Red Cross certified lifeguard. It’s also important to wear your basic clothing because it holds the warmth close to your body. Many types of clothing are good at trapping air and will aid in buoyancy, King says. Whether you’re clutching a log or treading water, it’s vital to control your heat loss by grouping survivors together in huddles to share body heat and protecting your “high heat loss areas” like extremities, groin and head, the Maine Island Trail Association recommends. Unless you must use a piece of your clothing or shoes for a flotation option, keep it on your body to aid against hypothermia and other cold-water related ailments.
Be resourceful, and you’ll find a way to survive.
“Many great swimmers drown while treading water because they get cold water in their ears and lose their equilibrium.” — Janelle King, swimming instructor and former Red Cross lifeguard
WHAT TO DO IN
HOT WATER
SOURCES Maine Island Trail Association (www.mita.org)
American Whitewater (www.americanwhitewater.org)
American Red Cross (www.redcross.org)
Wilderness Survival (www.wilderness-survival.net)
106
Luckily, steamy sea temperatures are not as treacherous for those in a life-or-death situation as cold water is. With hot water, the problem is the body overheating and the influence of bacteria, but taking off your clothes can help. Pants and coats can be turned into rafts and utilized to hold your head above water. Usually, warm water comes in the form of salty ocean tides, so the urge to drink—especially in the sun—should be avoided at all costs. If you can form a piece of clothing into a protective covering for your head to shield yourself from the rays, that is optimal.
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
Visit our new website today!
www.KnivesIllustrated.com
The premier knife magazine
Dennis Croft lived off the grid on BLM land until rangers chased him away.
108
C M A D N A R E N U E L N E B
LESSONS LEARNED
Small Town Security’s Dennis Croft Is A Former Survivalist Who Learned Some Valuable Lessons While Living Off The Grid By Torrey Kim
W
HEN AMC PREMIERED ITS
RETURN TO PRIMITIVE WAYS Following a career in the Air Force, Croft decided to live off the grid after studying the plight of the Native Americans. “I became disheartened with the government after learning more about the Native American condition and finding out the way they were treated and the lies that the government had told us,” Croft says. Croft decided to remove himself from the modern environment and live more like a Native American. “I went to a primitive living skills school for two weeks, where I learned the basics,” he says. At the school, Croft got an in-depth crash course in how to survive in the wild with nothing
no
HIT SHOW “SMALL TOWN
modern equipment, groceries or personal care products. “Basically, the school wanted you to figure
SECURITY,” VIEWERS NOT
out how you would live if you had no choice
ONLY GOT A GLIMPSE INTO
skills,” he notes.
THE INNER-WORKINGS OF
you had to survive by learning the most basic primitive
After gleaning a vast amount of knowledge from his instructors, Croft decided to live off the grid
THE FASCINATING AND
on a permanent basis, settling in a mountainous area of Wyoming on a plot owned by the Bureau of
QUIRKY OFFICE OF GEOR-
Land Management (BLM).
GIA-BASED JJK SECURITY, THEY ALSO GOT TO HEAR
GO DEEP
ABOUT THE EXPERIENCES OF ONE OF THE SHOW’S
What Croft learned after setting up his new mountain homestead was that no matter how
STARS, LIEUTENANT DEN-
remote you believe your site is, you’re not undiscoverable. “On the BLM site, the rangers would flesh
NIS CROFT, WHO LIVED OFF
you out every two weeks,” he says. “It didn’t matter where you went or how deep into the woods
THE GRID AS A SURVIVALIST
you thought you were, the rangers would find you and ask you to leave every two weeks. It wasn’t
LONG BEFORE WORKING IN
conducive to a living situation.”
THE SECURITY FIELD.
The reality, Croft realized, was that almost nowhere was safe from the authorities, so he would
CROFT SHARED DETAILS OF
have to leave the BLM land permanently. “Unless you go deep into the Ozarks or something, you’re
HIS EXPERIENCES WITH
going to be found,” he says. “If you want to not be found, you’ve got to go deep.” Croft then made
AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE,
his way to the plains of Nebraska, where he lived on private land for several months.
GIVING OUR READERS SOME INSIGHT INTO WHAT IT TAKES TO LIVE OFF THE GRID.
109
TIPS, HISTORY, STATS
Mental Strength During Adversity… Wintertime Blues By Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D. "LOOK AROUND, LEAVES ARE
D, the "sunshine vitamin," has helped
BROWN NOW AND THE SKY IS
many who suffer from SAD. Warning:
A HAZY SHADE OF WINTER.”
don't self-diagnosis your vitamin levels. Have blood work done by your health
Do these melancholy lyrics by two
care provider to detect low levels of Vita-
troubadours of the ’60s, Simon and Gar-
min D in your system. Some doctors may
funkel, speak to you? Perhaps you can
recommend over-the-counter Vitamin D,
relate to feeling down? Stressed out due
while others may determine that you
to a power outage or excessive snow,
need prescription-strength vitamin D.
which is affecting travel in your city?
Trust them, not your own judgment.
Craving carbs? Listless and apathetic? Do you just want to sleep? Maybe hibernate until the winter is over? It may be that your body really does want you to do just that
hibernate like some bears do. You might have more than the winter
doldrums. You might be suffering from Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD).
WHAT ELSE YOU CAN DO • Your health care provider may also
Aptly named, SAD creates various degrees of depression in those affected by
• Consider cognition-behavior ther-
weather's ability to knock out heat, power and
extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. The National Weather Service refers to winter
those with SAD as well as more serious
people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of
depression.
hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It’s important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes. Thus, minimize travel, make a family communications plan, make sure you have an
BE POSITIVE
emergency kit and listen to NOAA Weather Radio.
Finally, as you trudge through the
winter. Fortunately for bears, they can
cold, dark snow-filled months of winter,
sleep the winter months away. Unfortu-
recall the lyrics of another of Simon and
nately for us, we have work, school, fami-
Garfunkel's song: “April, come she will.”
lies and many other responsibilities that
Some cases of SAD are treated effec-
One of the primary concerns is the winter
deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead,
reflex. Your body demands sleep. You
outside.
sleet and freezing rain.
tions. It has been very effective in helping
mild depression.
do not end because it’s cold and dark
temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing,
storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most
some people that triggers a hibernation
wants to store fat to last you through the
winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low
thinking can affect your moods and emo-
been demonstrated to be effective against
your body
wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many
sometimes for days at a t ime. Heavy snowfall and
light may produce a hormonal change in
like bears
snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding,
medication to get you through the winter.
• Hit the gym. Even li ght exercise has
pounds because
Winter storms can range from a moderate
communications services to your home or office,
it. It’s hypothesized that the l ack of sun-
crave carbs and may even pack on extra
Deceptive Killers
suggest s short course of antidepressant
apy (CBT). CBT focuses on how your
WHAT IT IS
Winter Survival Tips…
Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D. is the Director of the LIU Hudson Rockland Graduate Counseling Programs in Orangeburg and West Point,
tively by switching over to full-spectrum
New York. Dr. Nardi is a clinical psychologist
light bulbs. This type of “light therapy”
and creator of Eclectic Cognitive Behavior
simulates natural light. Increasing Vitamin
Therapy. 10
FEMA
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
buyers
Guide
BACKPACKS
E V I N
Central To
Survival The Right Knife Can Provide You With Food, Defense And Shelter ONE ITEM. JUST ONE THING. ASK ANY SURVIVALIST WHAT ONE ITEM THEY’D BRING ON A DESERTED ISLAND, AND THE ANSWER WILL UNDOUBTEDLY BE THAT THEY’D BRING THEIR TRUSTY KNIFE.
A knife can be the difference between death and survival, because it can
offer self-defense, it can cut branches for shelter and can seize wildlife to provide you with food. With knives being central to survival, check out a few of these recommended blades to add to your kit.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
CUTCO
www.cutco.com Model: Gut hook hunting knife Key Features: Sharp, durable, game dressing features Suggested retail: $99
THE IMPORTANCE OF BELT CARRY
110
Most survivalists find that keeping a knife on their belt is immeasurably helpful, because they can reach down, unclip it and use it with just one hand. If your knife didn’t come with a belt sheath, you can buy a separate one from a variety of vendors that can fit your knife.
CHARCOAL 101 As most survivalists know, you can’t liv e for long without water, so it should be a primary concern when setting up your site. Although some survivalists can safely drink running water from a cold stream, you should treat your water before drinking it to stay on the safe side, says Dennis Croft. “I would recommend that survivalists carry charcoal,” he suggests. “If you don’t have charcoal, you can make it, and it’s a great life-saving material because it can purify and filter organisms. Chemical warfare gear such as gas masks have charcoal in them to keep out the harmful substances, and it’s very powerful.” To make it on your own in the wild, you should burn several pieces of wood in your fire until they are so completely charred that you can poke a stick into the center of the pieces. You’ll then remove the charcoal from the fire. Dig a hole and place the charcoal into it, then bury it for a few days. Once you remove it, you’ve got charcoal that’s ready to use. You’ll want to crush it before packing it away for use in your water filtration system.
JUST HOW POWERFUL IS CHARCOAL? Charcoal has been known as a filtration chemical for centuries. In the 1830s, a French scientist drank a lethal amount of strychnine in front of his colleagues at the French Academy of Medicine. He survived, however, because he had also ingested activated charcoal, which reduced the toxicity of the strychnine.
EMBRACE PRIMITIVE LIVING Croft suggests that anyone considering a life off the grid should learn primitive living skills, which can not only help you survive, but can allow you a way to make a living. “For example, you can produce leather and sell it all from the woods if you learn to brain tan using the brain of the animal you slay,” he says. “You can make your clothes that way and make a living selling the leather.” In addition, primitive living skills can allow you to learn how to make your own tools, find food and water, create a shelter, make fire, create bows and arrows, and perfect animal tracking. These skills will keep you alive in the wild. Just ask Dennis Croft. To see more of Lieutenant Croft, tune in to season two of Small Town Security, airing on AMC in the third quarter of 2013.
“Charcoal… is a great life-saving material because it can purify and filter organisms.” – Lt. Dennis Croft
DO YOUR HOMEWORK If you’re like Lt. Dennis Croft and you want to set up your home on Bureau of Land Management property, get to know the rules and regulations before you trek out into the open land, or y ou could be uprooted every few weeks like he was. Because the laws vary from state to state, check with your destination state’s BLM department to get a copy of the guidelines. You can see all of the states’ facts, including locations and length of stay allowed, at www.blm.gov.
LESSONS LEARNED PART II
C M A D N A R E N U E L N E B T F O R C , O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T L A O C R A H C
ONE
First, learn the basics from a primitive learning school.
TWO
After his exper ience with the BLM, Croft moved to the plains of Nebraska and lived there for several months.
FOUR Treat your water before you drink it.
FIVE
Carry charcoal so you
If you’re on a BLM site, expect rangers to find you and chase you off the land.
THREE The skills you learn from a school will allow you to make your own tools, find food and water, create a shelter make fire, create bows and arrows, and perfec animal tracking.
111
Bui lt Winter
K C A
Tough Durable Backpacks That Will Make It Through The Cold Of Winter WINTER MAY BE THE
VALUABLE ITEMS DURING
COLDEST TIME OF YEAR, BUT
YOUR SNOWY ADVENTURE
THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOUR
INTO THE WILDERNESS WITH
BACKPACK CONTENTS HAVE
THESE TOP-OF-THE-LINE WIN-
TO BE. SAFEGUARD YOUR
TER BACKPACKS.
112
EDITOR’S CHOICE
FORGE SURVIVAL SUPPLY
www.forgesurvivalsupply.com Model: Silver Bug-Out Key Features: High-capacity, lightweight, pre-filled with two weeks of survival gear MSRP: $1,105.75
buyer’ s
Guide
PACKS
SURVIVAL SUPPLY 1 FORGE
1
FORGE SURVIVAL SUPPLY
$1,105.75
www.forgesurvivalsupply.com
Model: Silver Bug-Out Key features: High-capacity, lightweight, prefilled with two weeks of survival gear MSRP: $1,105.75 Description: Don’t let its hefty price scare you—the Silver Bug-Out bag is worth every penny! This creamof-the-crop backpack is perfect if you’re out on your own for two weeks without the opportunity for resupply—it comes pre-filled with all the survival gear you’ll ever need. Its contents include stormproof matches, saw, whistle, fire paste, poncho and more! This pack is a bargain—you save $170 in gear alone. If you’re involved in a Survival in Hostile Terrain Following (SHTF) catastrophic event, don’t leave home without this pack—it could very well save your life! Cool Features: SOTech Mission Pack XP Coyote Gerber Profile Series Starflash Survival Mirror 2x3 Leatherman Wave Blastmatch Firestarter U Dig It Shovel Basic Survival Fishing Kit And More! • • • • • • • •
Did You Know? This features $1,279.75 worth of gear for the price of $1,105.75. If you’re a serious backpacker, this should be your pack of choice.
2 CABELA’S
$60
2 CABELA'S
www.cabelas.com
Model: XPG Ridgeline 25-Liter Pack Key Features: Adjustable sternum straps, lumbar support, adjustable shove-it-style pocket MSRP: $60 Description: If you’re looking for an all-in-one backpack and hydration system look no further than the XPG Ridgeline 25-Liter Pack. Not only is it hydrationsystem compatible, it can withstand the cold of winter thanks to its 210-denier polyester protective lining. Don’t let its lack of size fool you—this high-capacity pack can hold up to 1,598 cubic inches of winter gear. Best of all you won’t even feel the weight thanks to its built-in side compression straps that distribute the weight evenly and deliver load stability. There’s plenty of space to store all your gear— there are two immense storage compartments, plus two stow side pockets for anything you might have left over.
“Best of all you won’t even feel the weight thanks to its built-in side compression straps that distribute the weight evenly… ” 113
buyer’ s
Guide
PACKS
DIAMOND EQUIPMENT 3 BLACK www.blackdiamondequipment.com Model: Outlaw AvaLung Pack Key Features: Insulated hydration sleeve, easy access via front and pack, diagonal and A-frame ski carrying options MSRP: $260 Description: Serious adventurers looking to scale treacherous mountain peaks should make the Outlaw AvaLung their backpack of choice. This handy pack isn’t just useful for storage, it can be a lifesaver as well. The integrated AvaLung improves your chances of survival by gathering oxygen from nearby snow. This pack is versatile—whether you’re hiking or travelling by skis, you’ll be able to easily move around thanks to the ergoACTIV suspension. Backpack contents are always within grasp—the avy-tool organizer pocket and back panel are easily accessible if you feel a chill and want to grab extra layers.
3 BLACK DIAMOND
EQUIPMENT
$39.95
4 ALPS MOUNTAINEERING www.alpsmountaineering.com
Model: Orizaba 3300 Key Features: High-capacity, fully-padded suspension, hydration pocket & port MSRP: $130
Orizaba 3300 isn’t just a name. This heavy-duty pack can actually fit 3,300 cubic feet of winter gear. If that isn’t impressive, you can fill this high-capacity pack until it’s bursting at the seams. The top has a built-in extension with a spindrift collar so you can fit every last winter item. Never have a sore back again with its aluminum frame stay and HDPE frame sheet, which provide great support. The shoulders come with padding load lifters for added support. There’s even an internal hydration pocket to carry plenty of water along your long trek.
4 ALPS
MOUNTAINEERING
$130
114
5 DEUTER SPORT
5 DEUTER SPORT
$320
www.deuter.com
Model: Aircontact PRO 65 + 15 SL Key Features: Large capacity for carrying heavy loads, durable, suspension system for back support MSRP: $320 Description: Aircontact PRO 65 + 15 SL is the perfect heavy-duty all season backpack. Not only is it durable enough to withstand the icy cold of winter, the Vari Flex system makes carrying heavy loads seem light as a feather. You no longer need to compromise durability for mobility—the pack’s mobile hip fins follow your direction, allowing you to traverse the toughest of paths. No need to worry about soggy gear, as the pack comes intact with a handy rain cover. The suspension system is so comfortable you’ll feel like you’re wearing nothing at all. Your back and shoulders will feel totally at ease.
“The suspension system is so comfortable you’ll feel like you’re wearing nothing at all.”
6 CRAGHOPPERS
$65
6 CRAGHOPPERS
www.craghoppers.com
Model: Kiwi Pro Backpack 30L Key Features: Spacious, durable, cooling aerator panel, water-repellent finish MSRP: $65 Description: Kiwi Pro is one versatile pack. It comes in three fantastic sizes—15L, 22L and 30L—for backpackers of all skill levels. Serious backpackers will want to pick up the 30-liter version, as it’s roomy enough to hold everything you’ll ever need on a week-long backpacking expedition, including your trusty sleeping bag, and comes with a handy on-board storage system for superior organization. Don’t let this pack’s colorful name fool you. It’s durable enough to bear the toughest of winter backpacking expeditions. It comes with a host of fantastic features, including a hydration bladder pocket, elasticated expandable side pockets for extra gear, chest straps for added stability and an internal zipped organizer.
7 EAGLE CREEK
www.eaglecreek.com
Model: Loche 70L Key Features: Large capacity, ightweight, durable MSRP: $225 7
Description: Seventy liters never felt so light! Loche 70L is the ultimate hybrid backpack. Not only is it high capacty, it’s lightweight, so you won’t strain your back traversing those steep hills. Packing your gear has never been so easy. Eagle Creek’s patented Pack-It System makes organizing your bag a snap. Worried about people or animals rummaging through your gear? Rest at ease, thanks to the pack’s Central Lock Point, which secures the pack with one simple, yet secure lock. The pack has plenty of storage, ncluding zippered side pockets, perfect for your mobile phone or matches. Eagle Creek stands behind its quality backpacks. They come with a lifetime warranty.
EAGLE CREEK
$225 “Packing your gear has never been so easy.”
115
buyer’ s
Guide
PACKS
8 GOLITE
www.golite.com
Model: M's Quest 65L Key Features: Lightweight, durable, internal hydration sleeve MSRP: $270 8 GOLITE
Description: M's Quest 65L is GoLite’s number one selling backpack. It more than lives up to its name. Not only is it lightweight, it offers the durability and support only found in smaller packs. Trek the icy mountains without breaking a sweat with 40 pounds of gear in tow thanks to the pack’s lightweight material. It’s comfortable no matter how big or small the body type. Its adjustable torso length system allows for seamless adjustment to ensure your back is always at ease. “La piece de resistance” is the pack’s LiteRail perimeter frame. Not only does it stabilize your pack, it flawlessly transfers the weight directly to your hips… 40 pounds never felt so light!
$270
9 THE NORTH FACE www.thenorthface.com
Model: Slingshot Key Features: Plenty of storage, lightweight, hydration system compatible MSRP: $75 Description: The North Face is one of the top brands in backpack brands for a good reason. Check it out. It offers plenty of comfort for your back. FlexVent injection-molded shoulder straps, soft foam back panel and hipbelt are just a few of the features that make traveling a lot less strenuous. A 30-liter carrying capacity may not sound like a lot, but Slingshot more than makes up for its small size. Bungee cords allow for carrying gear of all sizes and generous mesh front pockets stretch to fit even your bulkiest of belongings. If you want to take a break from Mother Nature and catch up on your e-mail, feel at ease knowing your laptop and iPad are safe and sound in the pack’s spacious main compartment.
Keep Dry and Stay Well Hydrated: Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you should avoid drinking water. Be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Staying dry means wearing breathable layers and waterproof gear. Perspiration and damp socks can quickly cause a loss of body temperature. Wool socks and clothing are great because they’re warm and dry quickly.
WINTER BACKPACKING: KEEP THE CHILL OUT
•
Now that you have the essential winter gear for staying warm, it’s important to understand how your body loses heat to avoid freezing to death. The following tips are handy so you can enjoy many hours in the snow, instead of being cooped up at the lodge with hypothermia. Body Temperature: Body heat is lost in one of four ways, which are conduction, convection, evaporation and radiation. For example, you could catch a chill through damp socks, sitting on a log, lack of proper head gear or simply by breathing. Be sure to consume extra calories. Your body burns calories at a faster rate during cold weather.
•
Camping Gear: Be sure to bring a tent that’s snow-, rain- and wind-resistant. You never k now what you’ll come up against! When entering your tent be sure to remove your boots outside the tent. The last thing you want to do is track cold snow into your living quarters.
•
116
breathable, it’s also waterproof. Be sure to wear warm socks and waterproof boots. You’ll get cold very quickly with wet feet.
ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR WINTER BACKPACKING
9 THE NORTH FACE
$75
Winter is the coolest and most unpredictable season of all. One day the weather can be a mild 32 F, the next the mercury can plunge to sub-zero and accompanied by a walloping blizzard. Don’t forget about the snow and ice (unless you’re lucky enough to live in Nevada). It’s important to pack the right gear to stay warm and avoid hypothermia and frost bite. •
117
Clothing: To keep your core body warm, you’ll need to keep your body temperature at the recommended 98.6 F. Dressing in layers is the secret to retaining your body heat. Start with breathable long underwear and an undershirt to absorb perspiration (avoid cotton, you’ll get a cold sweat). Your second layer acts as an insulator. Finally, your exterior layer (winter coat, snow pants, gloves and hat) protects you from the snow, water and wind chill. Gor-Tex is great for winter. Not only is it
Snow Gear: Before embarking on your winter excursion, it’s a good idea to plan ahead of time for the backpacking gear you’ll require. For example, if you’re cross-country skiing, you’ll need your skis and ski boots; other useful gear includes an ice axe, snowshoes and crampons. It doesn’t hurt to bring along a snow shovel and flares. You’ll want to have them handy to dig out from avalanches.
•
•
Winter Equipment: It’s crucial to pack gear that can withstand the cold of winter. Be sure to pack your warmest sleeping bag. You don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night freezing in your tent. Each sleeping bag is rated for warmth, so be sure to grab one to withstand the coldest temperatures. Sleeping liners are good for added warmth on especially cold nights.
AVALANCHE
AIRBAGS Traversing a mountain in winter is scary to consider, due to all of the potential risks—but carrying an avalanche airbag can give you peace of mind. These products, such as the one shown here from ABS Systems, can attach to your backpack and inflate when necessary with the pull of a handle. When it inflates, it gives the mountaineer more room to move and breathe and helps him from getting compressed into the falling snow.
STAYING HYDRATED
WHEN A BEAR ATTACKS … Although your chances of coming across a black bear are rare, you should know what to do if you happen to see one. Consider these tips compiled by Glacier National Park rangers in Montana:
Anyone exercising in the winter can
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
tell you that hydration is just as impor-
1. DON’T BE
2. BACK AWAY
3. PROTECT
tant in the cold as it is in the summer
EASY PREY
If you instead surprise a bear
YOUR CHEST
months. However, with streams frozen,
If you believe a bear is
(more common), do not run.
If the bear does attack you,
the obvious hydration choice is to con-
following you and you
“Back away slowly, but stop if
fall to the ground on your
sume snow. This is typically safe, Hodges
cannot escape, make
it seems to agitate the bear,”
stomach or assume the fetal
says, but be sure to melt it before con-
noise, wave a branch
the Glacier National Park
position to protect your chest
suming it.
or rock, or use pepper
rangers advise. “Assume a non-
and abdomen. Hold your
spray to indicate that
threatening posture. Turn side-
hands over the back of your
tion,’” he says. “Your body will expend
you are not worth
ways, or bend at the knees to
neck and stay still until the
more energy melting the snow than what
fighting.
appear smaller.”
bear leaves.
“Eating snow is a ‘net negative equa-
you’ll get out of it.”
19
L I W
Wilderness
Fury
STAY ALIVE NO MATTER HOW DEEP INTO THE WILD YOU VENTURE “I WONDER ABOUT THE TREES. WHY DO WE WISH TO BEAR, FOREVER THE NOISE OF THESE… MORE THAN ANOTHER NOISE.”
Robert Frost, as we all do, had an appreciation and love for the wilderness. But we all should have the utmost respect for it, too. Because, at any given moment, it can grab us from behind, shake us violently and turn our world upside down. In This Section…
• Fishing without a pole
• How to build a shelter
• Where to find fish in abundance
• Checklist of materials needed
• Best bait tips
118
for construction of a shelter
O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
GIVE ME SHELTER
L
OCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. ANY REAL ESTATE EXPERT WILL TELL YOU THAT LOCATION IS EVERYTHING, AND
WHEN BUILDING A SHELTER, THE SAME
RULE APPLIES. SHELTER BUILDING IS OFTEN KEY TO YOUR SURVIVAL, BUT IF DONE INCORRECTLY, IT CAN ACTUALLY LEAD TO YOUR DEMISE. FOLLOW A FEW SIMPLE BUT ESSENTIAL TIPS AND YOUR STRUCTURE WILL NOT ONLY KEEP YOU SAFE FROM THE ELEMENTS BUT ALSO COMFORTABLE.
O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
When gathering materials for your shelter, try to find the most materials in the smallest area to conserve calories. You won’t have pine straw at the beach, but you will be able to find enough nearby items to create a structure.
119
Where and How and Other Key Tips To Constructing a Survival Shelter By Abe Elias
SHELTER LOCATION When looking at location, you’re not looking for proximity to shopping or schools, but instead you’re seeking safety and security. When
“Any real estate expert will tell you that location is everything, and when building a shelter, the same rule applies.” — Abe Elias, survival expert
seeking a spot to build your shelter, you should make sure it’s close to your building material. The act of building the shelter should be simple and done in such a way that you conserve calories that you’ll need later for tasks such as finding your dinner or creating a fire. In addition, you want to build your shelter in an area that’s naturally sheltered by the wind from other trees or materials, but is close enough to an open area that you can run out and be spotted by search and rescue aircraft if necessary. Be sure to look overhead to ensure that no immediate dangers lurk above you, such as dead trees or rocks that could fall on you or mud that could slide down upon you. You should set up your shelter on a flat piece of land with a little rise to it. This way, if a rainstorm arrives, the rain will have a place to go (down the hill) and you won’t find your shelter in a pool of water. And although you don’t want to construct your shelter too far from a water source, you also shouldn’t be right next to a creek or lake, because if a hard rain falls during the night, you could wake up surrounded by a wet, muddy mess.
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
If you can prop several sticks together and hang a tarp over them, you’ve created a tepee—a structure that can be extremely sound in any environment.
120
SHOULD YOUR SHELTER BE VENTLESS? When building your shelter, it can be difficult to decide whether to create venting or to keep the seals shut. The answer depends on your climate. If your shelter will be in a hot environment, you should build it in an area where the sun won’t hit it, but with enough venting so air can circulate. If, however, you’re in a cold climate, you want to seal as many areas as possible so the cold air can’t seep in.
KNOW HOW TO INSULATE Once you’re securely inside of your shelter, you want to create a simple “floor” of padding that will keep you from lying directly on the ground, which can be wet and therefore drain your body heat. Keep in mind, however, that you don’t want to use fresh vegetation for your flooring. Your body weight will crush out the water and your clothing will simply absorb it, making you very uncomfortable. Instead, use dead grass, old pine straw, dead leaves or dry tree bark as your padding.
STRAW, WOOD AND BRICKS The three little pigs learned which materials were best to withstand an attack, but in the case of survival, the big bad wolf is Mother Nature. Geography will influence your shelter materials significantly. For instance, if you’re in the arctic or the desert, it would be fruitless to tell you to build a debris shelter. Again, ensure that you con A good rule of th umb when building a shelter is to ensure that it’s about waist-high to keep it safe from the elements.
serve energy when selecting building materials. There’s no point wasting energy taking down the perfect tree or a ridge pole when Mother Nature has provided one that will do well enough and is already lying on the ground.
121
SHELTER
If you’re in the snow, that’s your building material. Igloos can be very secure, and you can stay warm with the right clothing and by locking out wind.
BUILD FOR WARMTH If you’re building a shelter that will depend on fire for heat, construct it so your full body is exposed to the fire. You’ll want to make the shelter long enough so you can lie lengthwise and have the fire next to you, warming you completely. If two people will be in the structure, place the fire in between so you can both lie parallel to it.
CONSTRUCTION IS KEY
FUNCTION AND FORM
You don’t have to be a professional construction worker
You may be envisioning yourself creating the Taj Mahal of shelters, but
to create a solid shelter. Construction essentially refers to the
in reality, your best bet is to keep your shelter small, because it will take
skills that you need to build a structure, and it doesn’t have to
less energy to build and it will be easier to keep warm.
be elaborate. For instance, you can use the theory of opposi-
If all you have is body heat to warm your shelter, you have a better
tion, where the weight of two falling items actually are sup-
chance to heat up an area if it’s small. If, instead, you are creating a fire, a
porting each other, like a tepee, arch or igloo. Try using nat-
small structure will require a smaller one, therefore allowing you to have to
ural features on the materials like “y”s in the branches or
scavenge less wood.
stones on the ground to support uprights.
A good rule of thumb when building is to create a shelter no higher
Even beginner survivalists should have a working knowl-
than your waist. This way, it will be safe from wind and will require fewer
edge of ropework, and that includes some skills in “lashing,”
supports. In addition, make sure the roof on your shelter is steep enough to
which refers to binding two or more materials together. If you
allow water to run off, but not so steep as to allow too much exposure.
can lash materials together, you won’t need to cut down a
Ensure that your shelter is far enough away from the open edges that you
tree to use it as a support. Instead, simply lash your tarp to a
don’t get driving rain coming down on you, making for a very uncomfort-
living tree.
able stay in your temporary “home.”
“The three little pigs learned which materials were best to withstand an attack, but in the case of survival, the big bad wolf is Mother Nature.” – Abe Elias
KEYS
TO A SUCCESSFUL SHELTER • Find a good location so you are safe and secure • Make sure it’s close to your building material • Keep it simple so you can conserve calories for other tasks • Select a location that is naturally sheltered from the wind • Make sure there are no immediate dangers that lurk above you
122
• Don’t construct your shelter too far from a water source • But, you also shouldn’t be right next to a creek or lake, because if a hard rain falls during the night it will be a muddy mess • Your best bet is to keep your shelter small, because it will take less energy to build and be easier to keep warm • Construct it no higher than your waist • Make sure the roof on your shelter is steep enough to allow water to run off but not so steep as to allow too much exposure
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
The world of firearms at your fingertips V isit our new website today
www.Gunworld.com
FISH
PIKE
GAME FOR FISH You don’t need a fishing pole to land the “big one” with these expert tips. By Larry Schwartz
124
“The technique that takes the most time up-front but the least energy overall is a fish trap.”
✄
A FISH TRAP … IN FIVE EASY PIECES
If you don’t have the materials to make a wooden trap, you can make one from manmade material. Unfortunately, it’s easy to find a one- or two-liter soda bottle that hasn’t been discarded properly, and you can repurpose that to create a trap. 1. You’ll cut off the top third of the bottle and set it aside. ■ 2. Next, find some bait and mash it up so that it gives off its scent in the water. ■ 3. Place the bait in the bottom two-thirds of the bottle. ■ 4. Now push the part you cut off into the bottom of the bottle with the neck/opening pointed down. ■ 5. You now have a plastic fish trap which the fish can swim into through the large opening but won’t be able to get back out through the neck of the bottle. Place the trap in an area the fish frequent, go away to do some other survival chores and then come back later to check on dinner. ■
w O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
HO SAYS YOU NEED A FISHING POLE? THESE IDEAS WILL WORK HOOK, LINE AND SINKER.
Fish can be a great source of protein
where small game and birds reside. There are a variety of methods you can use to nab fish from local bodies of water and land them in your cook pot or campfire. Some take a good deal of time and
for your family in any survival situation or bug-out loca-
energy to perform, but don’t require much up-front
tion. Not only will fish keep you nourished, but you will
effort, while others can be set ahead of time and work for
likely find it easier to focus your food-catching efforts in
you as you multitask.
streams and lakes instead of hundreds of acres of forest,
Let the fishing begin.
125
FISH
When searching for fish, check areas near rocks, logs or weeds.
FAST FISH FACTS REFRACTION
Fish provide protein and Omega-3 fatty acid.
SPEAR
until a fish swims toward you.
HOW TO FIND FISH
FISHING
At that point, you’ll either
So, where are they? If you’re going to get fish for dinner, the first thing you need to know is where in the lake or stream you will find them. Like any wild animal, their lives are based on where to get food and where to find shelter. Following are some ideas that will get you started: • A structure of some kind—like logs, rocks, piers or even thick plants—provide fish somewhere to hide. • Look in weed beds or other submerged vegetation. Weed beds are like food courts for fish. They provide cover for small fish, and small fish attract bigger fish. • Curves along the bank or cutouts in the bank provide more shoreline and slower-moving water. Fish will come here for the food and because the swimming is easier. • The entrance or exit point for any body of water. There will always be more food here because the bottom gets churned up a bit from the faster moving water, and that releases more food. It also serves as a funnel, which concentrates the fish moving through it.
thrust your spear or slowly For many, the first thing
move it toward the fish from
that comes to mind when try-
behind, being careful not to
ing to get a fish without a fish-
move too quickly so you don’t
ing pole is Tom Hanks’s char-
scare it away. Make sure to
acter in “Castaway.” Remem-
follow through to ensure you
ber how he stalked shallow
get a good hit and pin it to the
waters with a sharp stick?
bottom, which will help keep
Although this can be a great
it from getting away.
way to bring food to hand, it’s
PROTEIN, OMEGA-3 FAT
This is an optical illusion that makes fish look closer than they are.
Although a pointy stick
the closest one to hunting;
can work as a spear, it’s better
therefore, this takes more
to make something with a
skill, experience, time and
barbed tip on it. Find a stick
energy to be successful.
with a little branch that you
One of the main chal-
can sharpen into a barb, or
lenges with this approach is an
you can tie on a barb made
optical illusion called refrac-
from a twig or other strong,
tion, which makes fish look
sharp material.
closer than they are. Fortu-
Another approach is to
nately, there is a way around
create a two-pronged spear by
this problem.
splitting one end of the spear,
Instead of holding your
adding a twig to hold the split
spear above the water and
ends open, and then wrapping
thrusting it at the fish (where
above and below the twig to
the movement and splash will
keep the split from expanding
give away your attack), keep
and the twig from falling off.
the tip of your spear under
You can also cut barbs into
the water and slowly work
the two prongs of this type of
your way through the water
fishing spear.
126
Fish provide both of these.
USING A NET Once you locate fish or crustaceans, using a net to gather them takes less time than spearing and not as much energy, so it’s a good choice for a shortterm survival situation. A medium-sized net is something that you can easily keep in your packable survival kit. Look for something one to two feet in height and three to six feet wide with holes no larger than a half-inch in diameter so you won’t lose the smaller fish or crustaceans. You can use the net in one of two ways. First, attach sticks to either end, and hold it out in front of you. Then lower it down to the bottom of the water and slowly walk along, scooping up whatever might be edible from the bottom. This is a good technique for getting things like minnows and crayfish and small crabs that live along the bottom. The second method is best used when you have a longer net, or a bend in the stream where you can corral the fish. Stake one end of the net in place on the shoreline and then walk the rest of the net out into the deeper water. You can walk your end of the net back toward the shore, making a wide arc, much the same way that commercial fishermen use a seine net to capture large amounts of fish. Once you get back to shore, roll the net up on your stick, making the “corral” smaller and smaller until you can easily see what you have caught. This method might take a few tries, but if there are a lot of fish, this is one of the best ways to get them.
O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
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BAIT SOURCES
FISH
p
When you’re setting a trap to catch fish, you don’t need to get extravagant with your bait. You can use corn or other
,
food found on-site, such as worms or part of a dead animal. You’ll find that fish aren’t particularly finicky eaters.
A fishing n et can also get the job done.
FISH TRAPS The technique that takes the most SALMON
time up-front but the least energy overall is a fish trap. The most common is the kind you see in survival manuals and old Boy Scout handbooks because it’s made with materials you can find anywhere outdoors. The object is to make a pen, preferably in a narrow part of a stream or lake. The pen should have a narrow opening that fish can move through and a wider area where they will be corralled, but they will not be able to leave. If you can’t find an area that the fish move through on their own, find a still patch of water and put some bait in it. To build the pen, place sticks close together on the bottom like a picket fence, use a log or pine bough to form a wall, or any combination of things that will channel the fish into the opening without letting them exit.
“As with any survival skill, you should try out your fishing prowess before you’re placed in a situation where you’re so hungry you can’t focus.”
PRACTICE FIRST As with any survival skill, try out your fishing prowess before you’re placed in a situation in which you’re so hungry you can’t focus. On your next trip to the woods, build a spear or make some traps to see what
SPEAR SUCCESS
THE AUTHOR’S EXPERTISE
Keep the tip of your spear under the water an slowly work your way through the water. When fish is near, thrust your spear or slowly move it toward the fish from behind. Follow through to ensure you get a good hi and pin it to the bottom.
Larry Schwartz’s writing and seminars have included topics such as backcountry navigation, shot placement, wilderness survival techniques, and backpacking/camping skills. He is currently putting together a three-day basic outdoor skills workshop to be delivered in the Mid Atlantic region in the spring of 2013.
128
works for you. Keep in mind that some of these techniques are fine in a survival scenario, but in some regions they are illegal in other situations, so you may not want to actually spear that trout on your trial session. But you can practice sneaking up on it.
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
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O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
129
CLOSING WORDS
Symbolism THE SNOWPACK—SOME 15-FEET HIGH—REPRESENTS THE HARDSHIPS, BRUTALITY AND RUTHLESSNESS THAT IS WINTER.
The road
seemingly inter-
Mother Nature’s fury, such as
minable and the sunshine
the cold, cruel hand of Old Man
reaching across the land
Winter, be sure to look at both
repre-
sent hope, life and survival. There are two ways to look at every situation. So, should you ever come face-to-face with
sides of the “picture” and make sure you see the glass half-full. For that is the foundation
O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
for survival.
130
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Description: It’s more than a shovel. The Snow Claw is a multi-use tool that can not only dig your car out of the mud, uncover your pack after a major snowfall and hook directly to your backpack for quick storage, it can also act as a snow anchor, plate and even an emergency splint, thanks to its light weight and its ability to flex without breaking. Forget about hauling your 10-pound garden shovel around in your car as you make your next journey. Just snap the Snow Claw to your pack, and you’re ready for everything thrown your way.
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Description: We’ve all heard stories of survivalists putting hot stones or freshly baked potatoes in their pockets to stay warm throughout the day, but the Zippo Hand Warmer takes a more modern approach and lasts significantly longer than the pioneer methods. Activate the sleek warmer and you’ve got 12 hours of heat in your pocket. If you need warmth again the next day, just refill it with more of the lighter fluid and you can use it for another 12 hours. You might want to invest in two, or you’ll be passing the Hand Warmer back and forth between your hands and pockets to keep both toasty.
34
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T N E T N O
N A L A E V A D
BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR THESE EDITOR’S CHOICE ITEMS IN OUR
BUYER’S GUIDE SECTIONS ...
22
36
4
48
FEATURES 72 PET PREPPERS
WINTER
Dogs and cats need a survival plan, too.
PREPAREDNESS
By Wendy Wilson
12 INTRODUCTION
76 CALL ME … MAYBE
14 OUTSMART OLD MAN WINTER If you’re into winter outdoor activities, this is one story you must read. By Garrett Kim
In addition to everything else smartphones can do, add saving your life to the list. By Erin Hatfield
78 HOUSE WARMING
28 WINTER WIVES’ TALES You’ve heard the cold-weather survival tales. Now find out the truth.
When there is no power, crank up these creative ideas to generate heat for your household.
By Torrey Kim
By Torrey Kim
33 TOP 10 WINTER SURVIVAL ITEMS
82 ROAD KITS
A top 10 list of anything is always cool. When it can save your life, it’s even better. By Torrey Kim
42 WHITE WAVE Gregg Swanson encountered a climber’s worst nightmare on Mt. Rainier. By Gregg Swanson
WILDERNESS PREPAREDNESS
118 INTRODUCTION 119 GIVE ME SHELTER Location, location, location. That’s the No. 1 key to constructing a survival shelter. Do you know the rest? By Abe Elias
124 GAME FOR FISH Multiple ways to land the “big one.” By Larry Schwartz
Disasters are unpredictable. Take that advantage away by stocking your car with these essential items. By Paul Hantke
URBAN
PREPAREDNESS
COLUMNS 6 FIRST WORDS 8 NEWS, NOTES 130 CLOSING WORDS
83 INTRODUCTION
54 SURVIVING A SURVIVAL CAMP Mix in one non-outdoorsy gal with a Virginia survival camp, and you’ve got the recipe for one dynamic main “course.” By Erin Hatfield
84 UNDER FIRE The danger of wildfire is all too real. These eight tips will douse the danger fires create. By Suzanne Leder
88 SURVIVAL GARDEN
GENERAL
PREPAREDNESS
Reap the rewards of a winter garden with these sure-fire methods to produce food for your family.
63 INTRODUCTION
By Kristin Webb-Hollering
64 ANYTHING BUT MUNDANE
92 SURVIVAL NUTRITION
What can you do with a water bottle, a plastic bag, rope and a tarp? A lot more than you may have ever realized.
By Kristen Kleist
By Erin Hatfield
68 ON-THE-GO MEDICAL CARE Honey can do double-duty as an anti-bacterial. Find out other medical tips in this quick hitting guide to first aid.
Create a long-term plan for your family’s needs.
98 SURVIVE THE CHAOS You’re in a movie theater. Someone opens fire. Here’s what you do. By Alon Stivi
104 SINK OR SWIM
By Torrey Kim
Milk jugs, bags and trash may seem unsightly… until you need them to make a floatation device.
70 FAMILY SURVIVAL CHECKLIST
By Kristin Webb-Hollering
Hurricane Sandy is a sad reminder of the chaos nature can create. This 14-day plan will have you ready for anything that comes your way. By Sean Cooper
108 LESSONS LEARNED You know Dennis Croft from “Small Town Security,” but you probably did not know he’s a survivalist. By Torrey Kim
60
95
THE COVER Photographer: Dave Alan Model: Neil Melanson Designer: Eric Knagg
112
5
BUYER’S GUIDES 22 36 48 60 95 112
WINTER GEAR FOOD AND WATER LIGHT SOURCES KNIVES FIREARMS BACKPACKS
FIRST WORDS
Riders On The Storm
ISSUE 3 / SPRING 2013
EDITORIAL Editor: Doug Jeffrey Contributing Editor: Torrey Kim Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick Art Director: Eric Knagg
By Doug Jeffrey
S
TAGGERING ARE
Sandy’s short but destructive life almost
THE NUMBERS. MORE
coincided precisely with our own Torrey Kim
THAN 100 DEAD. MORE
and Erin Hatfield’s journey to the Advanced
THAN $20 BILLION IN
Survival Training Camp in Virginia. Of course,
DAMAGE. MILLIONS
we told them not to make that trek if it wasn’t
WITHOUT POWER. SEVENTEEN STATES IMPACTED. IN THE BEACH COMMUNITY OF BREEZY POINT,
safe, but the following excerpt from one of Torrey’s e-mails exemplifies that dedication: “Erin and I are keeping our eyes on the
NEW YORK, MORE THAN 100
road conditions between North Carolina
HOMES WERE DESTROYED.
and Virginia between now and Thursday.”
The responsibility for this devastation falls squarely on Sandy’s shoulders. The hurricane that belted the East Coast recently is a reminder of just how ruthless Mother Nature can be… and just how important it is to be prepared, regardless of
The pair safely
“The hurricane that belted the East Coast recently is a reminder of just how ruthless Mother Nature can be… ”
where you live.
made the journey and participated in the camp, just so you’d be armed with even more knowledge should you ever have to go toe-to-toe with a disaster.
BE READY
Meanwhile, between now and the next
ADVANCED TRAINING To get you the information so you can ride
American Survival Guide, enjoy this issue.
Dave Alan, Sean Cooper, Abe Elias, Paul Hant ke, Erin Hatfield, Garrett Kim, Kristen Kleist, Suzanne Leder, Cody Lundin, Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D., Larry Schwartz, Alon Stivi, Gregg Swanson, Kristin Webb-Hollering, Wendy Wilson
ADVERTISING Gabe Frimmel - Ad Sales Director (714) 200-1930 -
[email protected] David Beckler - Outdoor Group Director (972) 448-9173 Casey Clifford - Senior Account Executive (717) 896-8956 Mark Pack - Senior Account Executive (717) 200-1939 Gennifer Merriday - Ad Traffic Coordinator
OPERATIONS Gus Alonzo: Newsstand Sales Manager Celia Merriday: Newsstand Analyst Amit Sharma: Newsstand & Production Analyst Alberto Chavez: Senior Logistics & Facilities Manager John Cabral: Creative Graphic Designer
EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200 Yorba Linda, CA 92887 Ph: (800) 332-3330 Fax: (800) 249-7761 www.gunworld.com AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE © 2013 by Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
Learn as much as you can and prepare as best
CUSTOMER SERVICE
as you can, because when Mother Nature
BECKETT MEDIA, LLC 4635 Mc Ewen Road. Dallas, TX 75244
out the storm whether it’s a tornado,
strikes, she swings for the fences. There are
earthquake, flood or some other calamity
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CONTRIBUTORS
Live strong.
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O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy.
6
TIPS, HISTORY, STATS
Water Safety Tips… Survive Around Water
W
HEN YOU THINK ABOUT DANGEROUS WATERS, YOU MAY BE PICTURING A
WHITE-WATER RIVER OR AN
EXTREME RIP CURRENT IN THE OCEAN—BUT WHAT ABOUT THE
WATER ALL AROUND YOU?
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), about 10 people die every day from drowning, making it fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury deaths in the United States. Because most survivalists set up their camps very close to water sources, it’s important to know how to decrease your odds of drowning to help keep your family safe. Use the following tips to ensure that you’ll stay above water if you’re near it.
Don’t Get A False Sense Of Security You may feel like your campsite is your home, and that a nearby stream won’t pose a threat since everyone feels comfortable around it, but that’s untrue. People can drown in any depth of water, and the CDC reports that more than half of
show that 88% of
drownings among those 15 years and older
Wear Life Jackets
occurred in natural water settings. Maintain strong supervision around any water source.
You may not think
Take Swimming Lessons
those who drowned due to a boating incident in 2010 were not wearing life jackets.
you need to wear a life jacket to collect water from a stream, but if you or your family
This one may seem obvious, but study results
Learn CPR
have found that the risk of drowning decreases if
members can’t swim,
The faster you per-
someone has taken swimming lessons.
you should zip up the
form CPR on a drown-
If you aren’t near a location that offers
life vest. If you’re on a
ing victim, the better
formal lessons, be sure to have the best
boat, the life jacket is
the chance that they’ll
swimmer in your family
even more important,
survive. Have as many
train the others on
whether you can swim
people as possible in
how to swim.
or not. CDC stats
your group learn CPR.
Source: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (WWW.CDC.GOV/HOMEANDRECREATIONALSAFETY/WATER-SAFETY/WATERINJURIES-FACTSHEET.HTML)
8
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
4 Su rvival Books For Survival And Self-Reliance
• Stock cheap, filling foods that will feed you and your family for 30 days or longer • Acquire free stuff that survivalists never think of
PHONES. COMPUTERS. SPACE TRAVEL. WE LIVE IN A HIGH-TECH ERA, BUT WE DON’T ALWAYS
in the mountains to make it through hard
COMES TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY.
times?
presents a make-shifter’s way of building and repairing things with only a pile of raw or sal-
The Low-Budget Homestead
vaged materials, your hands and your mind. The book covers a wide range of unconven-
EVER THOUGHT ABOUT A SELF-SUFFICIENT LIFESTYLE ON A RURAL HOMESTEAD OR SURVIVAL
SKILLS, READ THIS BOOK.
This is a goldmine or practical steps and instructions. Among other topics, author Steven Gregersen hits on the following topics:
You may be covered at home, but what if
• Expedient repairs
you find yourself stranded in the wilderness
• Makeshift construction
and unable to get home for days, weeks or
• Useful projects
months? Could you live off the land? With
Plus, Ballou provides extensive instruction
this book, you could.
in makeshift metalworking, practical calculating skills, resourceful salvaging and more.
No. 3: Shoestring
Survivalism: How To Prepare For Bad Times On A Budget
• Creative ways to find inexpensive rural property to buy • 10 rules for a self-sufficient garden
• The essential tools, vehicles and skills you need to succeed
No. 2: Makeshift
Workshop Skills
LIVING ON A BUDGET? IF SO, THIS
winter. You will learn which plants, grasses, nuts and berries that require the least, if any, preparation. You will learn how to distinguish safe plants from toxic varieties and where abundant supplies are. The 138-page book is that will keep you alive in a survival situation.
In this 184-page book, Andy James provides dozens of shoestring survival methods that cost little and advance your preparedness for any disaster. You’ll get: • 21 simple, low-cost steps that will drastically improve your chances of surviving any disaster
ONE
FOUR
Dead, dry leaves
Dead, dry grass
TWO S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
these can feed you in the wilderness, even in
BOOK IS RIGHT UP YOUR ALLEY.
Numbers … TOP 5 NATURAL TINDERS
There are about 2,000 edible plants, and
packed with short reads for the various foods
• Designing the off-grid home so it’s warm in winter and cool in summer
Run: Survival Foraging For Plants, Grasses, Nuts and Berries PREPARATION IS A WAY OF LIFE.
• Homemade tools
WORRY NO MORE. IF YOU’VE
YOU DIDN’T HAVE THE MONEY OR
No. 4: Eating On The
tional and creative home workshop skills, including:
RETREAT, BUT WERE CONCERNED
Who said you need a fully stocked cabin
HAVE TO, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT
In this Paladin Press book, James Ballou
No. 1: Creating
• Find hidden values at familiar stores and in surprising corners of the Internet
Fibrous tree bark
FIVE
Weed THREE
tops
Dead pine needles
9
WHERE TO BUY THESE BOOKS PALADIN PRESS
7077 Gunbarrel Tech Center Boulder, CO 80301 www.paladin-press.com 303-443-7250
Floods Can Happen In A Flash 5 Steps To Prepare
FLASH FLOODS CAN OCCUR WITHIN A FEW MINUTES
Methods Of Preparation
OR HOURS. FLASH FLOODS OFTEN HAVE A DANGEROUS WALL OF ROARING WATER CARRYING ROCKS, MUD AND
Flood Advice From FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
OTHER DEBRIS.
Overland flooding, the most common type of flooding event, typically
1. Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
occurs when waterways such as rivers or streams overflow their banks
2. Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce
as a result of rainwater or a possible levee breach and cause flooding in
your home.
surrounding areas. It can also occur when rainfall or snowmelt exceeds
3. Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home
the capacity of underground pipes, or the capacity of streets and drains
if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
designed to carry flood water away from urban areas.
4. Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from
Know this: Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or
backing up into the drains of your home.
work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water, behind a
5. If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering
levee or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks,
the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing
culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry
compounds.
weather can flood.
More Numbers … S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
$5
TO
$40
The range in the cost of survival gear you’ll find in the story Top 10 Winter Survival Items
40
The number of survival items that can be made with a water bottle, rope, tarp and plastic bag
3
The number of gallons of water per day experts recommend each person should have
11
30
The number of days a person can survive without food
78,792 The number of wildfires in the U.S. three years ago
E T N I
Winter ’s Fury Tips for Winter Preparedness “THERE IS PLEASURE IN THE PATHLESS WOODS … I LOVE NOT MAN THE LESS, BUT NATURE MORE … TO MINGLE WITH THE UNIVERSE, AND FEEL
WHAT I CAN NE'ER EXPRESS , YET CANNOT ALL CONCEAL.” We share Lord Byron’s love of nature, but we all know that winter can turn plea-
sure to pain in a heartbeat, which is why we must respect Old Man Winter. For he hath no pity.
In This Section…
• Winter Buyer’s Guide
• Avalanche Danger
• A True-Life Survival Story
• Tips to Survive an Encounter
• Survival Tips With Common
with a Bear • Cold-Weather Myths
12
Items • Inside a Survival Camp
K C O T S K N I H T
13
OUTSMART OLD MAN WINTER How To Avoid an Avalanche, Survive a Bear Attack and More Snow sport enthusiasts can stay safe with expert tips on preventing winter dangers.
By Garrett Kim
Y
OU’RE A
you seize the opportunity for some
RISK-TAKER
ice fishing.
BY NATURE.
Which means when
Regardless of what your winter sport of choice is
from ice fishing
the winter snow starts to fall, you
to hiking to snowmobiling to hunt-
see the steep slopes as the ideal
ing to skiing you want to maxi-
location to test your skills… not as
mize your sport enjoyment time
a potential avalanche.
rather than having to avoid
Or when the temperature drops a country mile below zero
avalanches, thin ice and nasty bears. Keep these expert tips in mind
and when most everyone else is sit-
to avoid injuries, and react quickly if
ting comfortably by the fireplace
something bad befalls you.
14
“If you are caught in an avalanche, make like you’re swimming, moving your arms and legs.” —Mark Wienert, Jr., Lifesong Wilderness Adventures
O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
15
WINTER SPORTS
AVALANCHE DANGER
you will be returning, Wienert says.
If you’re on a snowy mountain, the number one safety concern is
In addition, you should avoid venturing into steep snow country
usually avoiding avalanches, which can be deadly within seconds after
during or after a heavy snowfall, Wienert says. “This is when the dan-
they begin.
ger of avalanche is the highest,” he notes.
“The number one action to avoid avalanches is to take a moun-
Wienert also advises mountaineers to look at the mountain land-
taineering course that specializes in avalanche education awareness,”
scape. Areas without trees or brush may give you advance warning
says Mark Wienert, Jr., founder and director at Lifesong Wilderness
that the area is prone to avalanches.
Adventures, an outdoor wilderness survival school based in North
“Slopes of 35 to 45 degrees are the most prone to avalanche,” he
Bend, Oregon. “If you snowmobile in mountain country, avalanche
says. “Slopes of 25 degrees are also prone to shift. If you are caught
education is a must.”
in an avalanche, make like you’re swimming, moving your arms and
Once you’ve been properly trained and you’re preparing to head
legs. This helps to keep you on top of the flow and creates airspace
out to the mountain, make sure you leave a detailed note with a
around your head and may help to keep the rest of your body from
responsible person letting them know where you're going and when
being stuck.”
16
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
AVALANCHE NOTES,
CHECKLIST SECONDS The amount of time in which these “waves” of nature can be deadly.
DO THIS FIRST Take a mountaineering course that specializes in avalanche education awareness.
INFORM FRIENDS Before you head out, leave a detailed note with a responsible person letting them know where you're going and when you will be returning.
AREAS TO AVOID Avoid ventur ing into steep snow coun try during or a fter a heavy snowfall. Areas without trees or brush may give you advance warning that the area is prone to avalanches.
35 to 45 Slopes of these degrees are the most prone to avalanche.
IF CAUGHT IN AN AVALANCHE Make like you’re swimming, moving your arms and legs. This helps to keep you on top of the flow and creates airspace around your head and may help to keep the rest of your body from being stuck.
ICY WATER No matter how thick the ice may
If dry clothes, blankets, or sleep-
look, you always have a chance of
ing bags are available, wrap yourself
hitting a thin spot when walking on a
in those, he adds.
frozen lake
and plunging into icy
water is extremely dangerous. If you fall through the ice, you S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
based outdoor adventure company.
“The key is getting body temperature back up and getting dry,” he says. “If you are in a very exposed
should immediately climb out, strip
area, consider building reflector
off your wet clothes and get close to
walls out of debris and/or tucking
a fire, advises Cliff Hodges, founder
your fire area in to a cave or rocky
and lead survival instructor at
area to help insulate from wind and
Adventure Out, LLC, a California-
exposure.”
17
“Eating snow is a ‘net negative equation.’ Your body will expend more energy melting the snow than what you’ll get out of it.” – Cliff Hodges, Adventure Out, LLC
WINTER SPORTS
“Crevasses are serious, and they can be thousands of feet deep.” — Mark Wienert
CREVASSE AVOIDANCE 101
THE DANGERS
climbers typically rope themselves together
OF CREVASSES
that way, if one person falls in, the other can use his or her ice axe to stop the fall, and pull
Mountaineering on a snow-covered mountain can lead to a hidden danger
falling into a
crevasse that could be deadly. “Crevasses are created from glaciers that
the fallen climber out. To avoid crevasses, “stay on the narrow bowls, which is where you will find crevasses,”
hump in the living rock,” Wienert says.
can poke it into the snow ahead of you to
“Crevasses are serious, and they can be thou-
locate solid and empty ice.”
ing crevasses, because anyone traveling high ele-
break over a hump in the living rock.
mountain ridges, if possible, and avoid flatter Wienert advises. “If you have a long pole, you
Wienert says that training is key for avoid-
A deep, narrow gorge that is created from glaciers that slowly move down a mountain and
slowly move down a mountain and break over a
sands of feet deep.”
WHAT IS A CREVASSE?
Alternately, you can carry the pole over your shoulder at a right angle to your body. “If you drop in the hole, the pole may give
THOUSANDS OF FEET DEEP
The depth to which some can be. HOW TO AVOID THEM
Stay on the narrow mountain ridges and avoid flatter bowls. If you have a long pole, poke it into
vations where glaciers are found should know
you a slight chance from falling all the way in by
the snow ahead of you to locate solid and
how to avoid them. In addition, experienced
arresting your fall if you can hang on,” he adds.
empty ice. Alternately, you can carry the pole over your shoulder at a right angle to your body.
18
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
WINTER SPORTS “ … one could make extra effort to create loud noises when moving/traveling through the wilderness. This technique is often employed by hikers to scare off black bears.” — Cliff Hodges
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH BEARS Many would-be winter sports enthusiasts
by a wild animal one of the least important concerns in a survival situation,” he says. “Other than grizzly bears (which only exist in a few places in the lower 48), there are no animals that pose a significant threat to human beings in
RISKS, REWARDS Risks have their rewards, as you know so well.
avoid heading to the mountain in the winter
North America. That being said, if you are truly
because they’re afraid of waking a hibernating
concerned with not ‘surprising an animal,’ one
homework before you venture out
animal and potentially being attacked, but this
could make extra effort to create loud noises
into Mother Nature’s playground for
shouldn’t be your primary worry on a moun-
when moving/traveling through the wilderness.
some thrilling memories. After all,
tain, Hodges says.
This technique is often employed by hikers to
you’ve got some free time next week-
scare off black bears.”
end, too.
“Generally, I would consider being attacked
SURVIVE A FALL INTO ICY WATER • If you fall through the ice, climb out, strip off your wet clothes and get close to a fire. • If dry clothes or blankets are available, wrap yourself in those. • The key is getting body temperature back up and getting dry. • If you are in an exposed area, build reflector walls out of debris and/or tuck your fire area in to a cave or rocky area to help insulate from wind and exposure.
TRAINING IS KEY Surviving on a mountain in winter requires
But just make sure you do your
ON THIN ICE There is never a guaran-
training and preparation. You can enroll in either
tee that ice is safe to walk
of our experts’ survival courses through their Web
on, but you’ll be more likely
sites below.
to break through the ice if
Adventure Out, LLC, offers classes in all ty pes
you notice water flowing
of outdoor education, including survival, surfing, rock
under the ice or around the
climbing, backpacking and mountain biking.
edges, water pools on top of
www.adventureout.com.
the ice, or cracks that appear
Lifesong Wilderness Adventures offers
to be under the ice. These
hands-on courses in wilderness survival, bushcraft,
are all signs that the ice is
nature awareness and animal tracking skills.
thin and could break with
www.lifesongadventures.com.
any weight.
20
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
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A E G
Best In Winter Gear Beat The Elements With These Hot Items Brutal. Temperatures below 0. Mix in a wind chill. Add a blustery storm to
the mix. Winter can be unforgiving, unless you’re prepared. In the following pages, we’ve got a number of hot items so you can withstand the elements, function and survive. Kick a little brutality back at Old Man Winter.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
MR. HEATER
www.mrheaterhero.com Special Features: Portable,
efficient, quick heating MSRP: $179-200
22
buyer’s
Guide
GEAR
1 MR. HEATER
1
“Use it to stave off frostbite or just to keep yourself comfortable during an ice fishing excursion…”
MR. HEATER
$179-200
www.mrheaterhero.com
Model: Hero Key features: Portable, efficient, quick heating MSRP: $179-200 Description: If you’ve ever been camping in the bitter cold and had trouble starting a fire, you know how welcome a backup warmth source would be. The Mr. Heater Hero is a portable propane heater that can operate for up to eight hours on one battery charge. Use it to stave off frostbite or just to keep yourself comfortable during an ice fishing excursion, and then pack it away again for later. Weighing just 12 pounds, it operates quietly and without the need for electricity, keeping you toasty no matter where you find yourself.
2 ERGODYNE
www.ergodyne.com
Model: Core Performance Work Wear 6480 Bottoms Key features: Durable, warm, breathable MSRP: $40-45
2
ERGODYNE
$40-45
Description: You’ve no d oubt heard the advice to “dress in layers” when you’re out in the winter, and that’s never been easier, thanks to these durable and breathable base layer bottoms. Pull on your Core Performance thermals before you step into your pants, and you’ll be able to remain out in the cold for much longer, thanks to the heat containment abilities of these bottoms. The soft wicking fabric is fitted so it won’t ride up, but it grabs perspiration and pulls it away from your skin quickly and then dries fast to ensure that you stay comfortable.
3 HEAT FACTORY
www.heatfactory.com
Model: Seater Heater Key features: Padded, heated, comfortable MSRP: $15-17 Description: Sitting in a chilly tent can be an unpleasant experience if you don’t have padding between the tent floor and your bottom, but the Seater Heater offers a comfortable way to relax. The water-resistant cushioned seat rests comfortably on any surface, from the ground to the ice to the snow. Add one of the included 18-hour heat packs, and the seat suddenly becomes a heat source, allowing you to enjoy a warm rest before you clip it to your belt and hit the trail again.
3
HEAT FACTORY
$15-17
23
buyer’s
Guide
GEAR
4 TUBBS
www.tubbssnowshoes.com Model: Women’s Wilderness
Snowshoe Key features: High traction,
comfortable, simple heel lift MSRP: $180-220
4
TUBBS
5
$180-220
BLACK DIAMOND
$95
“…Tubbs snowshoes defy that stereotype, with a binding that allows you to step in and click back out in a moment.”
Description:
Snowshoes are a must in certain snowy and icy terrains, but many people avoid them because of the perception that they are difficult to snap into and out of on the fly. But the Tubbs snowshoes defy that stereotype, with a binding that allows you to step in and click back out in a moment. You’ll barely remember you’re wearing them thanks to the light weight and comfort—until you walk across the ice with ease—and then you’ll be pleased you’ve strapped into these sleek shoes.
5 BLACK DIAMOND
www.blackdiamondequipment. com Model: Raven Ice Axe With Grip Key features: Lightweight, durable,
comfortable grip MSRP: $95 Description:
An ice axe is a n invaluable tool when traveling the snow or ice, thanks to its innate ability to quickly grab onto any type of terrain and allow you to maintain stability. The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe weighs just one pound, two ounces with its slider leash attached, allowing you to toss it into your pack or hang it from your carabiner and grab it again quickly whenever you need it. The aircraft aluminum alloy reinforces the axe’s strength, ensuring you that you’ll stay in place no matter where you are.
6 FISCHER SPORTS www.fischersports.com
Model: Alpine Comfort Soc ks Key features: Waterproof, windproof,
breathable MSRP: $35 Description:
Anyone who s pends time in the snow will tell you that a strong base layer is one of the most important keys to staying warm, and Fischer Alpine Comfort Socks give you one of the strongest foundations available. Thanks to the company’s “functional fabric,” you’ll get a waterproof, windproof, breathable material that wicks moisture away from your body. A cushioned sole allows you to ski, skate or hike through the snow without suffering foot fatigue, so you definitely won’t want to pack your bag without including your Alpine Comfort Socks. COURTESY BLACK DIAMOND EQUIPMENT
24
6
FISCHER SPORTS
$35
7
ERGODYNE
$23-30
7 ERGODYNE
www.ergodyne.com
Model: Proflex 817 WP Thermal Waterproof Utility Gloves Key features: Waterproof, windproof, durable, breathable MSRP: $23-30 Description: Dexterity and warmth don’t always go handin-hand, but with the Ergodyne Proflex gloves, you can complete even the most technical tasks without getting frostbite. The Thinsulate insulation, coupled with the gloves’ water and windproof material, gives you exactly the movement you need to keep in action. A synthetic leather palm adds durability, and the padded back keeps you from getting injured whether you’re creating a campfire, tying up your fishing gear or building a shelter.
8 HEAT FACTORY
www.heatfactory.com
Model: Hand and Body Warmers Key features: Long-lasting, easy to use, highly warming MSRP: $1 each
8
Description: An essential p art of any win ter survival k it is a way to stay warm if you don’t have a space heater or fire-making abilities, and the Heat Factory Hand and Body Warmers definitely do the trick. Throw a few packs in your car, your coat pockets, and your bug-out bag so when you need a few extra degrees, you can grab one, which will generate heat for 10 or more hours. They’re ultra-thin, which means that you can stuff them into your gloves and socks to increase the warming power of your garments and keep you on the trail longer.
HEAT FACTORY
$1 EACH
9 FISCHER SPORTS www.fischersports.com
Model: Martin Neckwarmer Key features: Soft, durable, highly warming MSRP: $25-35 Description: Feeling wind chill on any part of your body can make your outdoor excursion seem brutally unforgiving, but you can keep your neck covered in any weather using Fischer’s Martin Neckwarmer. The soft PES fabric is windproof and breathable, and keeps any moisture such as perspiration or snowfall away from your skin while you scale that mountain, cut into the ice to find fish, or head into the wild to hunt deer.
9
FISCHER SPORTS
$23-35
SOCKS, NECKWARMER - COURTESY FISCHER SPORTS
25
“The soft PES fabric is windproof and breathable, and keeps any moisture such as perspiration or snowfall away from your skin…”
buyer’s
Guide
GEAR
10
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WITH PROPANE
HARKEN
$100-120
Although propane heaters can be a must in the wintertime, you should always use caution when using this type of gas. The National Fire Protection Association reports that around 1,170 home structure fires involved propane between 2003 and 2007, resulting in 34 deaths. The NFPA offers the following safety tips when using propane:
10 HARKEN
www.harken.com
Model: Alpine Fleece Jacket Key features: Soft, thick, warm, lightweight MSRP: $100-120 Description: Dressing in layers has never been easier, since this jacket contains three full layers within its soft fleece outer shell. The Alpine Fleece Jacket is coated with Teflon to keep it waterresistant, and includes wool lining to keep your skin dry and warm. You won’t even feel the wind biting into you, thanks to the jacket’s ability to fight the bitter cold. Want more waterproofing capability? Use this jacket as a m id-layer and pull your foul weather gear over it—the Alpine Fleece Jacket is thin enough that it won’t feel bulky under your other gear.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for lighting the pilot and using the heater, and only use cylinder tanks outside of the home • Never store or use propane gas cylinders larger than one pound inside the home • Never operate a propane gas grill in the house • Have propane gas equipment inspected periodically for leaks or malfunctioning parts •If you smell a strong gas odor, leave the area immediately
11 TUBBS
www.tubbssnow shoes.com
Model: Men’s Flex Alp Snowshoe Key features: Quick snap-in and out, comfortable, high gripping capability MSRP: $230 Description: Falling down in the snow or ice can be devastating—and can cause serious injuries—but you can trust that you’ll stay steady on your trek with Flex Alp Snowshoes, which offer quick in-and-out bindings, comfortable flexing ability, and an extremely high gripping factor. You’ll stay on the trail whether you’re on flat snow or uneven terrain, and you can toss these lightweight shoes into your bag after you’re done with your travels.
Source: www.nfpa.org.
THE BASICS OF SNOWSHOEING
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ORTOVOX
$340-350
12 ORTOVOX
You may wonder why anyone would need snowshoes unless they plan to train a dogsled team. However, your survival strategy could depend on these amazing pieces of gear if you’re stuck in the snow or ice for any period of time.
www.orotovox.com Essentially, any time you’re in the cold backcountry, a pair of snowshoes will allow you to venture through all types of terrain without slipping on the ice or dipping down into the packed snow. You can not only get from point A to point B easily in snowshoes, but you’ll get to see the countryside during an outdoor workout.
Model: 3+ Avalanche Tranceiver Key features: Life-saving, lightweight MSRP: $340-350 Description: Mountaineering is a dangerous sport in the wintertime, based on the likelihood of experiencing an avalanche. But you can increase the odds that you’ll survive one of these terrifying ordeals with the 3+ Tranceiver, which sends out a signal to allow rescuers to find you if you’re ever buried in the snow. The LCD screen shows the search party exactly how to find you, guiding them in your direction so you can be dug out quickly. Operating on just one AA batt ery, the Tran ceiver is lightweight, but it carries a heavy duty when it protects your life.
Why Does ‘Cotton Kill?’ One key ingredient to surviving outside in the winter months is to stay warm and dry. This means wearing materials that carry moisture away from your skin—and unfortunately, cotton is not one of them, leading many survivalists to repeat the old phrase “cotton kills.” Although cotton has its advantages in many applications, if
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you’ve ever used a cotton washcloth or towel, you know how incredibly absorbent the material is, and that’s what makes it ineffective for wearing when you want to stay dry. Any perspiration or precipitation will soak your cotton and make it difficult to keep your skin dry. Instead, you should consider materials that wick moisture away from your skin, which are typically synthetic materials such as fleece.
13 BLACK DIAMOND www.blackdiamond equipment.com Model: Powerstretch Key features: Soft, lightweight,
flexible MSRP: $30 11
TUBBS
$230
13
BLACK DIAMOND
$30
27
Description:
These stretchy gloves are perfect for an afternoon setting up a tent or collecting firewood. Comfortable, flexible, and soft, they offer wind resistance and quick drying capabilities. You’ll be able to grip your fishing pole with the goat leather palms and thumb patches, which ensure that your hands won’t slip off of something valuable. In addition, the Powerstretch gloves can slip under your heavy-duty waterproof mittens if you’re out in the rain, serving as an effective thermal liner.
WINTER WI WE Bust FIV E Co ld-Weather Survival Myths
By Torrey Kim
28
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
xxx
’
VES TALES T
HEY ARE ALL ABOUT URBAN
While they often center around adoles-
old wives’ tales about winter survival are
LEGEND, SUPERSTITION AND
cence, they do extend into Old Man Win-
true, you’ve come to the right place, as
FOLKLORE.
ter’s realm, too, as you’re about to see. So, if
you’re better off knowing the answer before
you’ve ever wondered whether some of the
you’re faced with an actual survival situation.
They are wives’ tales.
29
MYTHS
WIVES’ TALE: A SPOONFUL OF WHISKEY WILL MAKE THE FROSTBITE GO DOWN THE TRUTH:
Whiskey decanter
Smith advises, this is not always the smartest idea. “If you’re ice fishing on a frozen lake and you have a thermos of warm
One of the most
water with you, it’s a bad idea to just
common beliefs about staying warm in
pour that over your hands,” he says.
the cold is that drinking alcohol will
You’re wasting your warm water
keep you from getting hypothermia or
supply and you now have wet hands
frostbite. Unfortunately, however, this
that won’t stay warm for more than a
old wives’ tale is just that
few minutes unless you have warm,
a myth.
“Alcohol makes you feel warmer,
dry gloves to put on them.
but it doesn’t change the temperature
If, however, you have a fire where
of your body,” says Tim Smith of Jack
you can continually reheat the water,
Mountain Bushcraft School in
you can soak your hands in the water
Masardis, Maine.
as long as it stays warm, because a
If there’s any risk that you may be
warm soak can help your hands thaw,
getting frostbite or hypothermia,
as long as you keep your clothes dry
Smith says, light a fire rather than
during the process.
opening a bottle of liquor. Not only
In addition, Smith says, if you
will this ensure that you stay warm,
already have frostbite, do not try and
but it will also allow you to keep your
warm your skin by rubbing or massag-
judgment intact should you face other
ing it without professional help. “The first nip you get initially in
issues that require quick thinking.
your fingers when it’s cold outside is usually not a big deal
WIVES’ TALE: POURING HOT WATER OVER YOUR HANDS WILL KEEP THEM WARM THE TRUTH:
that’s just a
warning that you need to get warm,” he says. “But if you get third-degree frostbite where tissue is actually
Many cold win-
frozen, then the last thing you want to
ter adventurers have reported that
do is reheat it. Not only will the heat
they will pour warm water over their
increase the danger of sepsis and gan-
hands
grene, but it will be incredibly painful.”
or even urinate on them
to
warm them up if they fear that frostbite might be approaching. However,
Instead, people with frostbite should go to the hospital immediately.
THE SYMPTOMS OF FROSTBITE
Keep these signs in mind if you think you might have frostbite. If you do have the symptoms, report to a medical facility immediately: • White or grayish-yellow skin • Skin that feels strangely firm or waxy • Numbness
S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
Source: The Centers for Disease Control
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WIVES’ TALE: A HILL IS WARMER THAN A VALLEY THE TRUTH:
When you’re setting up
your winter campsite, it can be tempting to pitch your tent on top of a hill, using the argument that the sun’s warmth can reach you faster. However, that may not always be the smartest decision. Besides, the earth heats from the ground up. “The answer to this depends on the landscape where you are,” Smith says. “Many factors come into play, such as the potential for an avalanche on the mountain, which location has the most resources for making a fire and other issues. But in open country, I’d make my campsite at the bottom of the hill. It will pool the coolest air, but it won’t be a difference of 50 degrees
the gradations will be small.”
The bottom of the hill will be more protected from the wind chill, which could not only make you colder, but could make it harder to keep your fire going.
“Alcohol makes you feel warmer, but it doesn’t change the temperature of your body.” — Tim Smith, of the Jack Mountain Bushcraft SchooL
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■
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Before heading out on any winter survival ventures, you should ensure that you have the right equipment and that you’re aware of how to handle an emergency.
■
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A good surviv al class really can save y our life. Make sure that the instructor has cold O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
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MYTHS
TRAVEL IN GROUPS
One survival tip that is definitely not a myth is that you shouldn’t travel alone during the winter months. You have a better chance of survival if you head out on your adventure with at least one other person. That way, if one of you gets into a difficult situation, the other person can provide assistance or call for help.
WIVES’ TALE: NEVER EXPOSE BARE SKIN TO THE ELEMENTS THE TRUTH:
WIVES’ TALE: A SMALLER FIRE IS SMARTER THE TRUTH:
One of the most important ways to stay warm while
venturing out in the cold is to dress in layers and wear well-insulated cloth-
Many adventurers have heard the phrase, “Make a
small fire and sit close,” but that may not always be possible.
ing. So it goes without saying that you should never expose bare skin to the
“This is an old saying that doesn’t come from places that get bitter
cold weather, right?
cold,” Smith says.
Not necessarily.
When it’s really cold and snowy out, you could be stuck making a fire
If you need to pick up something wet, you’re better off using your bare
out of soggy materials, which may lead to a huge fire, he says. And if mak-
hands to do it, then immediately drying them and putting your gloves back
ing a small fire is impossible, you should settle for a big one because
on your hands. It’s faster and easier to dry your skin than to dry a pair of
warmth is the most important factor.
gloves. In addition, if your gloves, socks, or other items get wet, you should take them off immediately and replace them with dry gear. The brief bare skin exposure is better for you than walking around in wet apparel.
“Many … adventurers have reported that they will pour warm water over their hands—or even urinate on them—to warm them up if they fear that frostbite might be approaching.”
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S O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T
To p 1 0 W i n t e r Survival Item s
1 P O T
When The Elements Are Harsh, You Want Your Best “Line-Up” With You
By Torrey Kim You always want your best “team” on the field, and that’s especially the
case in winter. You don’t want to be stuck outside without survival gear in the dead of winter
when the elements are at their least forgiving
so you
really need to pack your best equipment to give yourself the best chance of survival… such as the following 10 items.
2 O T O H P K C O T S K N I H T E L T T O B R E T A W
DON’T FORGET WATER
COGHLAN’S
$5-8
Whether you carry your water with you or you plan to collect and purify it along the trail, you must hydrate, no matter what the season. Even in the wintertime, ensure that you’ve got room in your pack for a sturdy water bottle.
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1 SEIRUS
www.seirus.com
Model: Hoodz Key Features: Warm, soft, lightweight, multi-purpose MSRP: $25-30
SEIRUS
25-30
Description: Whether you’re ice fishing, climbing a mountain, shoveling snow or hiking through the woods, you won’t get far if the wind chill is biting at your face. The Seirus Hoodz is far more than a hat—in fact, it does triple duty, serving as a cozy fleece neck gauntlet, hood and mask all in one. If you get too warm, you can pull down the hood and mask, and wear it only as a gaiter until you need to pull the covering over your head when the wind picks up again. Pack the Hoodz in your backpack or just pop it into your pocket before your next trek.
2 COGHLAN’S
www.coghlans.com
Model: Tinder Kit Key Features: Fast-lighting, effective, lightweight MSRP: $5-8 Description: If you’ve ever desperately needed a fire but found yourself with soaking wet matches—or worse yet, no matches at all—you know how valuable an emergency fire-making device can be. Coghlan’s Tinder Kit includes everything you need to get a fire started, and it’s light enough to carry in your pocket. You simply spread out the included fluffy tinder and then use the enclosed flint to create a spark and get your fire started. The tinder will burn for more than five minutes, giving it plenty of time to spread to your prepared kindling and logs.
8 SMARTWOOL
www.smartwool.com
9
LIGHT MY FIRE
$30 35
8
Model: PHD Hyfi Training Gloves Key Features: Wind resistant, soft, allows for touch-screen access MSRP: $40 Description: You’re hiking through the cold, battling a windchill of 25 degrees, but you need to use your smart-phone to check out a local map. Pulling off the gloves and exposing your hands to the bitter cold isn’t an option—but you won’t have to with the Hyfi Training Gloves. These soft and comfortable gloves keep you warm no matter how fast the wind is whipping, and the silicone palm and finger grips allow you to safely hold your electronics. The fingertip panels allow you to access your smart-phone apps and other features without removing your gloves, which will be a huge bonus in the winter.
SMARTWOOL
$40
9 LIGHT MY FIRE
www.lightmyfire.com
“ …you’ll find
Model: Swedish Fire Knife Key Features: Easy to grip, fast fire-starting ability, works wet or dry MSRP: $30-35
a shower of sparks on the first try to ignite your tinder and get
Description: This lightweight and ultra-sharp knife serves double duty at dinnertime—it not only helps you clean your fish, but it allows you to start a fire with its built-in Firesteel technology. The allpurpose knife comes in a colorful sheath so you won’t lose it in the grass, and it has an included fire starter. Simply turn the knife blade around and pull the fire starter against its back, and you’ll find a shower of sparks on the first try to ignite your tinder and get a fire blazing. Pack the 3.5-inch knife into your pocket, strap it onto your belt, or toss it into your pack before you go on any adventure.
a fire blazing.”
10 YAKTRAX
$30
10 YAKTRAX
www.yaktrax.com
Model: PRO traction device Key Features: Offers traction, easy to pack, flexible MSRP: $30 Description: You may not have space in your winter survival kit for a pair of snowshoes, but you certainly have room for these flexible, spike-less traction devices that strap right onto your regular shoes. Whether you’re wearing sturdy boots or light athletic shoes, you simply stretch the traction strap around your footwear and you’ll be able to jog through the mountains without slipping on icy puddles, walk through the packed snow without falling or hike along an icy trail while remaining stable. You’ll be glad you packed your Yaktrax PROs in your bug-out bag this winter. 7
SURVIVAL STRAPS
$25-30
7
SURVIVAL STRAPS www.survivalstraps.com Model: Bracelet Key Features: Lightweight, easy to carry, multi-use MSRP: $25-30
BONUS PRODUCT: Gerber Bear Grylls Knife De Wh y with paracord? Lash together a trap, create a fishing line, hang your rain fly, make a belt… and thousands of other uses. If your bug-out bag doesn’t have space for 15 extra feet of paracord, you’re in luck. Clip a Survival Strap to your wrist, and you’ve got additional military-grade paracord secured by a stainless steel clasp. If you encounter a situation that creates a need for the rope, simply unravel the bracelet and use the paracord. Then contact the Survival Straps Company and let them know the emergency situation that necessitated its use, and they’ll send you a new one at no charge!
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You’ve seen him on television making a sealskin wetsuit, cutting branches to make a fire and lashing together logs to create a raft—all using his trusty knife. Bear Grylls is famous for his ability to devise a shelter or a meal with his knife, and thanks to Gerber’s Bear Grylls line, you can do the same. With a wide range of products, many of which have multiple uses (for instance, a whistle or a fire rod), you’ll love the ergonomic handle and the incredibly sharp blade when you’re out in the wild.