Group Survival Equipment & Use

The Polar Code suggests the following for group survival equipment:

• Shelter
• Thermal protective aids
• Sleeping bags
• Foam sleeping mats
• Shovels
• Sanitation supplies
• Stove and fuel
• Emergency food
• Flashlights
• Waterproof and windproof matches
• Whistle
• Signal mirror
• Water containers and purification tablets
• Spare set of personal survival equipment
• Group survival equipment container that is waterproof and can float

We will highlight some of this equipment below for greater understanding and instructions for proper use.

Shelter

Tents or storm shelters, or an equivalent of these, must be available. There needs to be adequate shelter for every person. There are a variety of these shelters available; the most important factors for safe polar use are design and insulation.

When set up, shelters need to be oriented so that wind comes across the entrance and not into it. This helps prevent snow accumulation and entrapment.

Sleeping bags and mats

There must be one sleeping bag and mat available for every two people. A good sleeping bag will be rated for use in arctic temperatures. There are many features available for sleeping bags, such as snorkels, quick drying insulators, temperature control, and overbags. Foam pads or mats to go under a sleeping bag are beneficial because they create a better barrier. They also allow for greater comfort.

Be aware that in the event of an emergency, covering your face while inside your sleeping bag can cause ice to form in that area, which will negatively impact comfort and safety for the duration of use.

Shovels and flashlights

The Polar Code recommends supplying each shelter with at least one flashlight. It also recommends having a minimum of two shovels in the group supply containers.

Sanitation and hygiene

Sanitation is important during an emergency. Some useful supplies include biodegradable soap and toilet paper.

Something to keep in mind regarding hygiene; human waste needs to be kept at least 200 feet from your water source as contaminated water can cause illness.

Stove, fuel, and emergency food

There needs to be a sufficient amount of emergency food for the maximum number of people ashore for the maximum anticipated amount of time to rescue. There needs to be enough fuel to operate the stove for the same amount of time.

Water purification tablets

Water purification tablets are especially important. Although there is plenty of accessible water when surrounded by ice and snow, it may not necessarily be potable water. Many strains of pathogens, bacteria, viruses, and parasites can survive being frozen for an incredibly long period of time. Scientists estimate that some of these can survive for tens of thousands of years when frozen. Once the ice or snow is melted for drinking, purification methods needs to be followed. There are three main purification tablets or drops. Each one has a wait time while it kills anything potentially harmful. If possible, it is best to use a combination of methods.

To learn more about Polar Code visit our Polar Code Online Training web page.