How build an emergency shelter

A Snug House in an Emergency

There are millions of Websites with information of emergency shelter designs ranging from fold-up structures to "concrete canvas" to recyclable cardboard structures. And, of course, FEMA trailers.

But what about a different kind of emergency? An emergency where you are on a hike (or running from danger), and the trail suddenly disappears. It could be because of an unexpected weather change, or because the path was more strenuous than you expected and it is suddenly dark with---not the time to go on ahead or turn back. For whatever reason, you are stranded---lost?---in the woods.

You've planned ahead, having layered clothing, some of which is a bright color, like hunter's orange; you have matches or a lighter; you brought more water than you expected to need. You just didn't plan on being out overnight or worse.

This happens more than you think!

The solution: Build an emergency shelter in the woods, keeping several things you need in mind:

Protection from:

• The cold ground
• The elements: wind, rain, or snow
• Wildlife
• To be able see and hear when a rescuer comes.
• To follow basic construction rules:
• A good foundation
• Solidly built walls and roof
• Good insulation

How do you do this in the woods? Assuming you can't find a ready-made shelter (like a cave or hollow tree), here's a route to go:

1. Find a solid object as your "foundation": e.g., a) a solid tree on which you can lean thick branches, b) a fallen tree trunk, c) spreading tree roots, or d) a natural hollow.
2. Plan to face the opening away from the wind and, if possible, towards some rocks or a rocky cliff to help a fire heat your shelter by reflection.
3. Plan to keep it small so your body heat can warm it up.
4. For scenes b or c, scoop out a hollow on the most protected side; for d, you may want to make it deeper.
5. Find sturdy branches to lean against the tree, teepee style (a and b), or form a slanted roof using the log as the peak (c), or (d) across the hole at one end to make a peak and then slanting other branches for the roof.
6. Take thinner branches with needles or leaves and weave them around and/or over the other branches you placed. Lay more over those to make a thick layer of insulation---one that will be more watertight. If you are able to dig any turf to lay over it all, that can help make a tighter roof. Piling dirt around or on it is good, but the thick layer of leaves must be first.
7. Now for the "floor." If you lie directly on the ground, it will draw out your body heat. Make a floor of dry boughs, grass, or leaves.

This is only a basic, rough description, and there are other options---especially if you have a poncho or large garbage bags with you. You might go out planning to make an "emergency" shelter just for fun. Then if you need it in a true emergency, you will be prepared.