Do Emergency Blankets Really Work? 10 Survivial Hacks to Use Them

Emergency blankets are thin, lightweight sheets made of a reflective material, typically aluminum-coated polyester or Mylar. They are designed to serve as a barrier against heat loss and to reflect thermal radiation back to the body. Emergency blankets are often included in first-aid kits, camping gear, and survival kits due to their compact size and potential life-saving properties.

Emergencies can strike at any moment, often when we least expect them. One of the most important things that will determine your outcome is staying warm and protected from the elements. One tool that has gained popularity in emergency preparedness kits is the emergency blanket, these lightweight, reflective sheets are touted for their ability to keep you warm in challenging conditions, but do they really work as advertised? Here are 10 Ways you can use these in an Emergency Situation.

 10 Survival Hacks for Using Emergency Blankets:

1. Warm Shelter: Create a makeshift shelter by using the emergency blanket as a roof or wall. The reflective material will help retain heat and keep you warm.

2. Signal for Help: Reflect sunlight off the emergency blanket to create a signal for rescue teams. The bright reflection can be seen from a distance.

3. Sleeping Bag Liner: Place the emergency blanket inside your sleeping bag to add an extra layer of insulation. This will help you stay warmer in cold conditions.

4. Ground Insulation: Use the emergency blanket as a ground cover when sleeping outdoors. It will prevent heat loss to the cold ground.

5. Windbreak: Protect yourself from strong winds by creating a windbreak with the emergency blanket. This can make a significant difference in maintaining your body temperature.

6. Rain Poncho: Punch a hole in the center of the emergency blanket and wear it as a makeshift poncho to stay dry during rain or snow.

7. Fire Reflector: Set up the emergency blanket behind your campfire to reflect heat towards your shelter, increasing its warmth.

8. Water Collection: If you find yourself without a container, use the emergency blanket to collect rainwater by creating a funnel shape.

9.  Signal Mirror: Cut a small piece of the reflective material and use it as a signal mirror to catch the attention of search and rescue teams.

10. Emergency Tarp: In case you need a larger shelter, combine multiple emergency blankets by taping or tying them together to create a more extensive tarp-like structure.

Remember to handle emergency blankets carefully, as they can tear easily. Using these hacks can significantly improve your survival chances in emergency situations.

My Experience with Emergency Blankets

The Science Behind Emergency Blankets

To determine whether emergency blankets work, let’s look at how they’re made.  These blankets work on a simple principle: heat reflection. They are constructed from materials that have high thermal reflectivity, meaning they can bounce back a significant portion of the heat radiated by your body.

When you wrap yourself in an emergency blanket, it forms a barrier that prevents your body heat from escaping into the surrounding environment. At the same time, the reflective surface of the blanket bounces back the heat towards you, helping to maintain your body temperature. This is similar to how a thermos flask keeps beverages hot or cold by minimizing heat transfer.

Heat Retention of Emergency Blankets

Emergency blankets are particularly effective at retaining body heat. Numerous scientific studies and real-life survival stories support their efficacy. Let’s explore some of the evidence:

1. Scientific Studies.  Research conducted by institutions such as NASA has demonstrated the effectiveness of reflective materials like those used in emergency blankets. These studies show that such materials can significantly reduce heat loss.

2. Real-Life Situations: There are countless accounts of individuals surviving extreme conditions, including harsh winters and wilderness emergencies, thanks to emergency blankets. These stories emphasize the life-preserving qualities of these simple yet effective tools.

3. Hypothermia Prevention:  Emergency blankets are invaluable in preventing hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive heat loss. Wrapping yourself in an emergency blanket can help maintain your body temperature and prevent hypothermia from setting in.

Limitations and Considerations

While emergency blankets are undoubtedly useful, it’s important to acknowledge their limitations and use them appropriately:

1. Durability: Emergency blankets are fragile and can tear easily. Handle them with care to avoid damage.

2. Not a Substitute: Emergency blankets are not a substitute for proper clothing in extreme cold conditions. They work best when used in conjunction with other layers of clothing.

3. Single-Use:  Some emergency blankets are designed for single use only. If you use one in an emergency, consider replacing it in your kit afterward.

4. Size Matters: The size of an emergency blanket may be a limitation for taller individuals. Look for larger-sized blankets if needed.

5. Wind Resistance: In windy conditions, emergency blankets may not provide adequate protection. Use them in conjunction with natural windbreaks or other shelter options.

 

How to Properly Use an Emergency Blanket

To maximize the effectiveness of your emergency blanket, here’s how to use it properly:

1. Unfold Gently: Carefully unfold the emergency blanket to prevent tears.

2. Wrap Securely: Wrap the blanket around your body, ensuring it covers as much surface area as possible.

3. Seal Edges: Use tape or clips to seal any open edges, creating a barrier against drafts.

4. Layer Up: If possible, layer the emergency blanket with other clothing or blankets for added insulation.

5. Stay Dry: Keep the blanket dry to maintain its effectiveness. It’s not a waterproof barrier.

6. Signal for Help: In case you need rescue, use the reflective surface to signal for help by reflecting sunlight or flashlight beams.

Final Thoughts on Emergency Blankets

Emergency blankets are not just a gimmick but a valuable tool in emergency preparedness. Their science-backed ability to reflect and retain body heat makes them effective in preventing hypothermia and maintaining core body temperature in challenging conditions. However, it’s essential to be aware of their limitations, handle them with care, and use them in conjunction with proper clothing and shelter when necessary.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a prepper, or simply someone looking to be prepared for unexpected emergencies, including emergency blankets in your gear is a smart decision. These compact, lightweight, and affordable tools can make a significant difference when it comes to staying warm and safe in unpredictable situations. So, the next time you wonder if emergency blankets really work, the answer is a resounding “yes.”