Provisioning cont.: Raft repair kit, Clothing, Water Stores
RAFT REPAIR KIT
A repair kit usually will be provided by the manufacturer of the life raft. Inspect it to see that it is complete. Documented records of actual survival situations suggest that the following items, if not provided, should also be added:
• Patches (and scissors to cut for size and fit)
• Adhesive (extra supplies of epoxy resin and catalyst or a faster setting contact adhesive glue)
• Plastic or wooden threaded plugs for large holes in the raft
• Solar still repair kit and patches
CLOTHING
Space is the limiting factor for clothing provisions. Here are some suggestions:
Wool. Wool is a good choice of material because of its insulating qualities even when wet. Its ability to absorb perspiration makes it superior to cotton or down.
Synthetics. Available on the market today are various synthetic fibers that are effective and space saving. (They perform much better than down when wet.)
It is a good idea to pack a supply of clothes and store them in an accessible place so you can turn your attention to other things during the emergency situation.
WATER STORES
Deciding the quantity of emergency water stores to take along can be difficult. Medical authorities have established that a minimum of one pint of water per day is sufficient for one person. (However, two quarts of water per day is necessary for a person to exist without suffering any loss in efficiency.)
One method of ensuring that you’ll have water with you is to tie three or four containers to the raft while it’s stored on deck. Then, once the raft is deployed the containers will be attached and floating with the raft. (Water tight seals are necessary and plastic jugs must be stored out of the sun to avoid spoilage.) A gallon plastic container three-quarters full will float.
Another method of carrying water stores is by purchasing water already packaged in cans. Usually the provisions kit supplied by the manufacturer will include several of these cans. A can opener and a plastic top for resealing the can once it has been opened must be included.
Solar stills and desalinization kits are each a must in your emergency stores. Ideally, you should include more than one of each. The desalinization kits can be used when conditions restrict the use of a solar still.
Six packs or cases of beer, although nicely packaged, are not advisable in an emergency backup. Alcohol has absorbing qualities that can deplete vital body fluids, thus increasing the danger of dehydration.
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