PACKING FIRE/ FUEL SUPPLIES FOR YOUR QUICK RUN BAG (QRB)
Considerations. Fire provides means for heating, cooking, signaling, and lifting spirit; however it also introduces risks of wildlife and injuries. You have to seek minimum skills/knowledge before starting fire and adhere to best safety practices regarding use of fire. Following is recommended packing list only.
* Disposable lighter. As simple as it sounds; no need to go fancy. Just ensure that it is either waterproof or in waterproof container. Lighters with transparent or semi-transparent bodies are preferred, so you can always see how much fuel remains.
* Flint. You may choose to use advanced flint striker or simpler magnesium flint to start fire using your knife. You have to check specific air carrier regulations if you are planning to transport your QRB by air at any point. Some carriers do not allow for magnesium on flight (including checked-in luggage), so you might need to buy flint locally or consider other options.
Considerations. Fire provides means for heating, cooking, signaling, and lifting spirit; however it also introduces risks of wildlife and injuries. You have to seek minimum skills/knowledge before starting fire and adhere to best safety practices regarding use of fire. Following is recommended packing list only.
* Disposable lighter. As simple as it sounds; no need to go fancy. Just ensure that it is either waterproof or in waterproof container. Lighters with transparent or semi-transparent bodies are preferred, so you can always see how much fuel remains.
* Flint. You may choose to use advanced flint striker or simpler magnesium flint to start fire using your knife. You have to check specific air carrier regulations if you are planning to transport your QRB by air at any point. Some carriers do not allow for magnesium on flight (including checked-in luggage), so you might need to buy flint locally or consider other options.
* Fuel tablets. Available in high variety. Same considerations with air transportation apply. Better to consider individually packed tablets in sturdy packaging.
* Candle. Decide on shape and size in connection with your strategy for: fire tablets, heating fuel for cooking mug, and night light. You may also consider insect repellent candles against mosquitos.
* Tampax (fire catcher). Yes, hygiene tampons as fire starters; just cut on the side and reap it open, stretching to the sides. Few sparkles will be enough to start fire.
* Alcohol wipes. Another option for fire starter would be alcohol wipes. However, it has to be in addition to your First Aid Kit supplies.
* Waterproof matches. You may opt for factory made waterproof matches or make your own set, using combination of bunch of home-waxed matchsticks (just rub candle strongly against regular wooden matchsticks) and striking side - all packed away in small waterproof container.
* Candle. Decide on shape and size in connection with your strategy for: fire tablets, heating fuel for cooking mug, and night light. You may also consider insect repellent candles against mosquitos.
* Tampax (fire catcher). Yes, hygiene tampons as fire starters; just cut on the side and reap it open, stretching to the sides. Few sparkles will be enough to start fire.
* Alcohol wipes. Another option for fire starter would be alcohol wipes. However, it has to be in addition to your First Aid Kit supplies.
* Waterproof matches. You may opt for factory made waterproof matches or make your own set, using combination of bunch of home-waxed matchsticks (just rub candle strongly against regular wooden matchsticks) and striking side - all packed away in small waterproof container.