Re: [Paddlewise] survival blankets

<snip>
For roughly 5$ a piece I can affort to buy a new one after been forced
to
use it, or even carry more than one (and a somewhat sturdier version
somewhere in my boat).  Given its price, size, and weight a piece of
gear
worthwhile to carry in any case......
---------------

Ulli, et al:
On a recent fall multi-day paddle, I encountered colder conditions than
anticipated. At my lunch stop, the rain squalls were so intense that it
was not only cold and wet, but making a cheese sandwich would have been
a soggy experience. In too much of a hurry to get back on the water and
beat the wind direction swing due any moment, and too cheap too pull out
and wreck my space blanket stored in a PFD back pocket in a sealed
pouch, I simply yanked out my tent's "footprint" ground sheet (coated
nylon) which is the last thing to go into the front hatch. I was amazed
at how quickly I warmed up, wrapped in the grey synthetic covering that
offered protection from wind and rain. Ahhhh...relief, if only for a few
moments (this was the trip where my drytop delaminated). One doesn't
always need a space blanket to enjoy the benefits of the Second Law of
Thermodynamics.

Anyway, I do normally carry one or two space blankets, one heavy duty
survival type (but had forgotten the heavy one on the above trip. The
heavy duty one is very robust, and I even use it for picnics with the
family. Its also great as a quick protection liner for the back of a car
or van when you have wet or dirty gear, or place it reflective side out
to protect gear from UV damage in certain situations. I also use it as
an extra ground sheet in colder conditions under the tent, and on
storm-bound days. It also works well on muddy shores or sandy beaches
for loading and unloading gear from the boat. Mine has grommets, and
I've even used it as a mini tarp.

Well, gotta run. My lovely wife is growling over my shoulder - she just
saw the PW header. EEEEK, she's got her broom! Happy halloween
everybody.

Doug L


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