Those stars point to the North Star, which is also the last star on the handle of the Little Dipper constellation. Find the Big Dipper constellation-a ladle-shaped group of stars-and look at the two stars on the end of the cupped part of the dipper. North can also be found by locating the North Star. Knowing the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, you can gather your general direction. Look for the sun in the morning and evening to determine where it is rising and setting. But if you don’t have one available, there are other ways to help you navigate. The easiest way to find your direction is with a compass. Knowing the direction you’re headed can help you determine whether you’re moving toward land. Resist jumping in the water unless it is necessary. If you ever find yourself wet, remove all the damp clothing you can and get it as dry as possible. Staying warm and dry is critical for preventing hypothermia. Spare plastic bags, luggage, clothing, life vests, or tarps should be assembled to defend you from the elements. And remember, the more surface area your collection device covers, the better! So make it big!Īnything you have lying around can be used to create a shelter. Use a bucket, tarp, or plastic bag to catch rainwater. Keeping a ready supply of fresh water is imperative for raft survival. A survival fishing kit is also an excellent solution for catching a meal. Pocket knives, makeshift nets, shoelaces for fishing wire, and anything that can be used as bait are valuable assets. Do not wait for it to be low to consider preservation.Ĭonsider what you have available to you that may help you hunt or fish for food. If you have any food, start moderate rationing immediately. Clamps or clam seals are a great solution if the leak is larger, as they essentially hold the hole shut. Patches, duct tape, and other adhesives can be used when the leak is small or above water. Many life rafts come with leak repair kits, so check if one is available onboard. The first step to fixing a leak is locating what you can use. Learn more about Knots Every Survivalist Should Know.įixing a leak on a raft can literally be sink or swim. Practice these steps in a pool to master the technique. Close the waist tightly to hold in the air.Air will be pushed up into the legs of the pants.Slam your pants down on the surface of the water.Lift your pants overhead, holding the waistband.Remove your pants and tie the ankles together tightly.Luckily, creating a makeshift flotation device with just the clothes on your back is easy. Without a floatation device to help you, this might be exhausting. In a raft survival scenario, you may find yourself in a situation where long-distance swimming is necessary to get to land or help. If possible, bring emergency gear with you, like a survival fishing kit or a survival first aid kit, whenever you’re out on the ocean.Ģ. Keep a mental note of the nearest emergency exits, floatation devices, and raft options. Whenever you’re out at sea, always be prepared for an emergency.

Raft survival tips and tricks