How to Use an Emergency Blanket

Have you ever wondered what that shiny, foil-looking thing in your emergency kit is really for? These are emergency blankets. They might not look like they do much but they can actually be a real lifesaver and can keep you warm when you're stuck outdoors in the cold or rain. But how do you use them to get the most use out of them? Let's dive into that.

What Are Emergency Blankets?

 

 

Emergency blankets, aka space blankets or Mylar blankets, are usually made from a thin, lightweight material called Mylar, which is a type of plastic coated with a thin layer of reflective metal, often aluminum. This coating is what gives them that shiny, metallic look. It was originally developed by the NASA space program for space missions, which is why they’re also called space blankets. They're either sold separately or as part of first aid kits.

How Do Emergency Blankets Work?

 

 

Emergency blankets are designed to keep you warm by reflecting your body heat back to you. Normally, when you’re cold, your body loses heat to the environment. These blankets help trap that heat. It can reflect up to 90% of your body heat and reduce heat loss. This can be crucial in cold weather or emergency situations. They weigh less than 2 ounces and can be folded down to fit in the palm of your hand.

Beyond just keeping you warm, they can also provide you with shelter, help signal for help because of the shiny surface, or can be used as a ground cover. You can use them during natural disasters, when you're stuck outdoors in the cold or rain, during car breakdowns, when you forgot to carry a blanket or basically any time you need to keep yourself warm. It's such a lifesaver especially when you're at the risk of getting hypothermia.

How to Use an Emergency Blanket

 

 

Now that we know what an emergency blanket is and how it works, let's get into how to use it:

1) Open and Unfold Carefully

First things first, take a moment to open the packaging carefully. These blankets are thin and can tear easily if you’re not gentle. Slowly unfold it. It might feel a bit crinkly, but that’s normal.

2) Wrap Yourself Up

Wrap the blanket around your body with the shiny silver side facing your body. This reflective surface is what keeps your body heat from escaping. Drape it over your shoulders and then tuck it around your sides and down to your feet. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight. Leave as little space as possible for cold air to sneak in. If you’re sitting or lying down, wrap it tightly around you like a burrito.

3) Create a Shelter

If you don't need the blanket to reflect heat but need it as a shelter, you’ll want to find a way to secure it above you. Look for branches or rocks to hold it in place or let it lean to your backpack. You can drape it over a low-hanging branch or use it to create a makeshift tent by tying it to something sturdy. Make sure the reflective side is facing towards you to keep in the heat.

4) Signal for Help

One of the coolest things about these blankets is that the reflective surface can signal for help. The shiny, reflective surface is perfect for catching the light. Lay the blanket flat on the ground or hang it up somewhere high and visible. It will reflect the blazing sun or even the beam from a flashlight so that rescuers can spot you.

5) Insulate Yourself from the Ground

The ground can be a major source of cold. Lay the space blanket on the ground before you sit or lie down. This creates a barrier between you and the cold, damp earth.

6) Collect Rainwater

In an emergency, you can use the blanket to collect rain water. Shape it into a bowl or funnel, duct tape it, and place it where water can gather. The material is waterproof, so it’s perfect for collecting and channeling rain.

Note: After you’re done using the blanket, make sure to fold it up as best as you can. Avoid leaving it outdoors to reduce your tent footprint. Try to get it back into its packaging or another protective cover. If it’s torn or damaged, it’s a good idea to replace it so you’re always prepared. These blankets are designed for one-time use, but if you're careful, you might be able to use them a few times.

Things You Might Not Know About Emergency Blankets

 

Credit: Envato Elements/ RossHelen

• While the main use is to keep warm, be careful of overheating. You can adjust the blanket or vent it slightly to regulate your temperature.
• If you have other insulating materials like extra clothing or a sleeping bag, use the blanket as an additional layer. It works best when combined with other sources of warmth.
• If you’re with a pet, don’t forget they can benefit from the blanket too. Wrap it around them just as you would for yourself to keep them warm.

Summary

To wrap things up, emergency blankets are incredibly versatile and essential for any emergency kit. They’re lightweight, compact, and can reflect up to 90% of your radiated body heat. You can use them for shelter, signaling for help, collecting rainwater, and even as a windbreaker. With the tips mentioned above, you’ll be well-prepared to use an emergency blanket in various situations.

Before you go, if you’re looking for a reliable emergency blanket, check out Emergency USA. Their blankets are top-notch, durable, and designed to keep you safe and warm when you need it the most. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just want to be prepared for the unexpected, Emergency USA has got you covered. Shop with us today.