Other Uses for Your Emergency Blanket
Sure, we all know what space blankets are. You know, those thin sheets of what seem to be “aluminum foil” that we all have neatly tucked into our emergency supplies for, well, emergencies? Whether you call them space blankets, emergency blankets, or sheets of tin foil we keep warm under in an emergency, they all serve the same purpose. Or do they?
Did you know that space blankets (so named because they were invented for NASA’s space program), even though they are so small and thin, can be used to help out in many emergencies beyond just keeping you warm? These space blankets are designed to help reduce heat loss from a person’s body, and help retain up to 90% of your body heat. For that same reason, you can also use a space blanket as a ground cover while camping. If you lay the blanket/blankets down on the inside of your tent, not only will it provide a protective barrier to the inside of the tent floor, but it will also add a bit of extra warmth in the tent itself! It will reflect the heat from you body back up to you, and also prevent moisture from coming up through the ground your tent is on. (Space blankets are waterproof, by the way.)
Space blankets are made of pure aluminum vapors that are deposited onto a very thin and sturdy film material. This means that, because of the aluminum in the blanket, it makes for a very good reflective surface. If you are stranded in an emergency situation, use your space blanket as a reflective shelter that will be able to attract the attention of your rescuers for miles around. I have also read that they can be used to build solar ovens!
Space blankets are so small and easily affordable. They can fit neatly into your pocket on a day hike. They can even be reused again and again. Because of all the advantages and uses of a space blanket, you should have them available to you and your family in your 72 hour kits, your glove compartment, and even your purse. You will be grateful to have one when you need it!
