SURTHRIVAL Part 2 Shelter
Topic: The Need For Shelter / Where to Build
Reflect: Psalm 91:1 / Matthew 6:25-34
The human body can only survive 3-4 hours exposed to harsh environmental conditions. It has a core body temperature (CBT) of 98.6 degrees. Any time our CBT drops or raises 3-4 degrees outside of it’s normal rate you risk Hyper/Hypothermia. That is why it is essential that you have the ability to create a micro climate. The easiest way to accomplish this is by building a tarp shelter. Natural shelters take time, but are doable.
In this lesson we will discuss where to build a shelter, types of shelters, and essentials of shelter building.
Where to Build a Shelter
Look for somewhere flat and consider The 5 Ws:
Weather/Wind – Be aware of the weather. Don’t camp to high or too low.
Water – Make sure water is close by, but that you are not in a flood zone.
Wood – There needs to be fire wood, and building materials.
Widowmakers – Look for dead overhanging branches or trees.
Wildlife– Don’t set up on games trails or animal dens.
Types of Shelters
When building a shelter you also need to be aware of the heat loss mechanisms, and how to adapt to them.
Heat Loss Mechanisms
Conduction – Heat loss through contact (ground). Lay down a ground barrier.
Convection – Heat loss through movement (air). Set up a tarp to block the wind.
Radiation – Heat loss through energy (body heat). Capture heat with insulation.
Your shelter should consist of some type of ground and overhead coverage along with insulation. Always take a tarp/poncho when you go into the woods.
Read Verses/Reflect: Psalm 91:1 says “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will find rest/peace.” The chapter goes on to describe God’s provision and protection. In survival, we should always be prepared and capable of creating a shelter. The need for shelter is essential in our daily lives as well, but too often we live in fear and are anxious about just paying the bills and keeping a roof over our heads. Matthew 6 tells us to not be anxious for God provides. Read verses 25-34, and write down all the ways God is providing for you.
The SURTHRIVAL SERIES IS PART OF A 6 WEEKS FREE SMALL GROUP WORKSHOP. FOR FURTHER IN DEPTH TRAINING CHECK OUT OUR TRAINING SCHEDULE.