SHELTER SITE SELECTION
When you are in a survival situation and realize that shelter is a
high priority, start looking for shelter as soon as possible. As you do
so, remember what you will need at the site. Two requisites are--
- It must contain material to make the type of shelter you need.
- It must be large enough and level enough for you to lie down
comfortably.
When you consider these requisites, however, you cannot ignore your
tactical situation or your safety. You must also consider whether the
site--
- Is suitable for signaling, if necessary.
- Provides protection against wild animals and rocks and dead trees
that might fall.
- Is free from insects, reptiles, and poisonous plants.
You must also remember the problems that could arise in your
environment. For instance--
- Avoid flash flood areas in foothills.
- Avoid avalanche or rockslide areas in mountainous terrain.
- Avoid sites near bodies of water that are below the high water
mark.
In some areas, the season of the year has a strong bearing on the
site you select. Ideal sites for a shelter differ in winter and summer.
During cold winter months you will want a site that will protect you
from the cold and wind, but will have a source of fuel and water. During
summer months in the same area you will want a source of water, but you
will want the site to be almost insect free.
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