Surviving a Cold and Wet Night in the Woods

TLDRDespite the rain and wet conditions, I managed to build a shelter and start a fire to stay warm during the night. It was challenging, but I used the candle method to get the fire started with wet wood. The heat reflector in the shelter worked well to keep me warm, and I slept comfortably, despite the weather conditions.

Key insights

🔥Using the candle method to start a fire with wet wood

⛺️Building a shelter with a heat reflector

🌧Dealing with rainy and wet conditions

🌲Collecting pine boughs for insulation

💤Sleeping comfortably despite the weather

Q&A

What is the candle method for starting a fire with wet wood?

—The candle method involves using a beeswax candle to generate sustained heat. You light the candle and set it in the fire lay, surrounded by the finest kindling possible. As the candle burns down, it generates embers that can ignite the wet wood.

How did the heat reflector in the shelter help keep you warm?

—The heat reflector was made using rocks and was positioned in front of the fire. It reflected the heat back into the shelter, providing warmth throughout the night.

How did you collect pine boughs for insulation?

—I went out and gathered pine boughs, making sure to spread out the impact and avoid taking branches with pine cones. I layered the pine boughs about 12 to 18 inches thick around the shelter to provide insulation.

Did you sleep comfortably despite the weather conditions?

—Yes, thanks to the shelter and fire, I was able to sleep comfortably throughout the night, even with the rain and wet conditions outside.

What challenges did you face during the night?

—The main challenge was finding dry wood to start the fire, as everything was wet from the rain. I had to use the candle method and gather the finest kindling I could find. Additionally, the temperature rising at night caused the snow to melt and drip from the trees, making the conditions even more challenging.

Timestamped Summary

02:00Started building a shelter using pine boughs and an oil cloth

06:00Constructed a heat reflector for the fire

08:50Struggled to start the fire with wet wood and used the candle method

11:00Continued working on the shelter and gathered more pine boughs

13:20Managed to get the fire started and added more wood to keep it going

16:19Explained the candle method for starting a fire with wet wood

17:23Described the challenges faced due to the rain and wet conditions

19:35Morning update on the rough night and successful fire

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