Survival guides · Shelter & Fire

Insulate From the Ground

WHEN TO USE THISSleeping or sitting on cold ground. What's under you matters more than what's on top.

1. Know the threat

   • Cold ground pulls heat straight out of your body.
   • Lying on bare ground can cause hypothermia even at 40–50°F — faster if you're wet or exhausted.

2. Pile up natural material

   • Dry pine needles, leaves, grass, bark or moss.
   • 8–10 inches, packed under you.
   • It flattens under your weight — start with more than you think.
   • Nothing damp.

3. Or use what's around

   • Flattened cardboard — even one layer helps a lot.
   • Foam pads, yoga mats, carpet scraps, stacked newspaper.
   • Empty plastic bottles laid side by side.

Sources: US Army FM 3-05.70 Survival · National Weather Service Cold Weather Safety

General information to help in an emergency — not a substitute for training or professional care.