Tarp Shelters: If you have a survival kit, you should have at least two garbage
bags, and maybe even a solar, or “space,” blanket. Items such as these (or a
tarp if you’re lucky enough to have one) are invaluable in making shelters
because they can be used almost on their own as a tent, provided you also
have some kind of rope or cord.
When using a plastic sheet as your only roof material, however,
remember that rainwater and other precipitation may collect in pockets.
This can cause leaks and even bring your entire shelter down on you!
Any time you incorporate a plastic sheet into the construction of a
shelter, be careful not to puncture, rip, or otherwise damage the sheet. Not
only will the sheet no longer be waterproof, it will continue to tear once
the process has started.
In the desert and other arid environments, a plastic sheet can be used
in conjunction with rocky outcroppings or sand mounds to provide much
needed protection from the sun.
Anywhere there are trees, you can stretch your rope between two, then
drape the plastic sheeting over them to make a rudimentary Aframe. Use
rocks or other heavy objects to hold down the edges of the plastic. Similarly,
you can use your plastic sheeting to make a leanto.
stroud’s Tip
I advise against digging shelters unless you have no
other option. Not only is digging laborintensive, but (other
than in snow) there are very few places you can dig effectively
without running into some kind of natural obstacle such as roots
or rocks. Even desert sand is extremely hard to dig into.
If, on the other hand, you are lucky enough to find a hole
or depression in the ground, by all means use it as the basis of
your shelter (assuming it’s not in an area that collects water). After
clearing out any debris you may find inside, build a roof by adding
branches and other deadwood. Cover the roof frame with plastic
sheeting (if you have it), leaves, and earth. Shelter (^) | 165