Aluminum Foil to the Rescue: Practical Uses in Survival Situations

foil

Aluminum foil isn’t always something that ranks high on the list of items that end up in bug out bags or survival kits.  This is unfortunate because having some foil on hand can connect us with a variety of benefits during an emergency.  While we’ve talked about how foil can make it easier to accomplish random tasks or projects during a survival situation, it can also be used to help us to get out of trouble as well.  Here are a few more ways that you can use foil to your advantage during a crisis.

 

Signal

The reflective surface of foil makes it ideal for signaling, and you can create an improvised mirror by making a frame out of some branches and then wrapping it with a few sheets of foil.  All you need to do is place the signal in a conspicuous location before angling it to catch rays from the sun.

 

Trail Marker

You can also take small strips of foil and wrap them around plants or shrubs along trails.  This can be a better alternative to using string or small pieces of fabric, because the foil will produce small reflections that can make it easier to see.  Additionally, foil can reflect the light from flashlights or torches at night, which can help you to orient yourself if you get turned around after dark as well.

 

Glare Reducer

If you’re stranded in an area that is blanketed by bright, white snow, consider making a pair of improvised goggles out of some foil and cordage to make it easier to see through the glare.  Take a sheet of foil and fold it a few times into a strip that is about six inches long and two inches wide.  Poke two holes near the edge of both sides and tie-off some cordage to use as a strap.  Cut two small slits that are just big enough to look through, and cut out a notch in the center so the mask can fit over your nose.  You’ll be amazed at how this simple trick can subdue blinding light and make it easier to discern details in the surrounding terrain.

 

Water Resistant Pouch

While wrapping small items in foil won’t make them waterproof, doing so can reduce the amount of water that gets inside.  This can be a fast and easy way to create an extra layer of protection for sensitive electronic devices, medicine, matches or other important items that you don’t want to get wet.

 

Rudimentary Splint

If you have a sprained or broken finger, consider making a basic splint from some foil and a couple of twigs.  Fold a piece of foil a few times in order to create a thick strip that is as wide as your finger and about twice as long.  Take a twig that is a little more than twice as long as your finger, and bend it in half without breaking it in two.  Slide the twig around the finger before covering it with the foil strip and securing it with some tape or cordage.  You’ll be surprised at how rigid this splint can be, and how it can protect your finger from further injury.

 

Hot Water Cup

If you want to purify some water by boiling, but don’t have a cup handy, consider making one out of some foil instead.  All it takes is a couple of sheets to create a cup that will not leak while also being able to withstand the heat of the fire.  Fill it with water and let it boil for 10 minutes before transferring it to your container.

 

Think of some other ways that you can put foil to use during a survival situation, and chances are that you’ll start to appreciate the value of having some on hand.  Feel free to share some ideas that come to mind, and don’t forget to add some to your bug out bag or survival kit.

 

 

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