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Emergency Raft Building

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Emergency Raft Building

This playbook outlines the steps to construct an emergency raft using natural or salvaged materials. The process involves finding suitable materials, constructing the raft, and ensuring its usability for water navigation.

Step 1: Material Collection

Gather materials such as logs, branches, vines or rope for lashings. If available, use barrels or other buoyant items to aid in flotation.

Step 2: Choose Location

Select a flat area close to the water&#x27;s edge that has enough space for construction and launching of the raft.

Step 3: Design the Raft

Decide on a design that will provide proper buoyancy and balance. This typically involves a rectangular or square shape with a sturdy, flat surface.

Step 4: Construct Frame

Lay out the larger logs or items side by side to form the base. Use the lashings or rope to bind the materials together tightly at multiple points to ensure a secure frame.

Step 5: Test Buoyancy

Safely place the raft in shallow water to test its buoyancy. Adjust the distribution of materials as necessary to improve floatation.

Step 6: Add Decking

Create a platform on top of the base using flat materials where passengers and cargo can sit or be secured.

Step 7: Secure Decking

Fasten the decking to the base with additional lashings or rope, ensuring everything is stable and secure.

Step 8: Final Inspection

Check all lashings and knots for tightness, inspect the overall stability of the raft, and make any needed adjustments.

Step 9: Launch Raft

Carefully move the raft into deeper water and embark. Use paddles or makeshift poles to navigate.


General Notes

Safety First

Always prioritize safety during construction and testing. If the raft is not stable or secure, do not attempt to use it.

Use Floatation Devices

Whenever possible, wear a personal floatation device (PFD) for added safety.

Avoid Rapids

If navigating a river, attempt to avoid rapids and fast-moving water, as homemade rafts may not withstand such conditions.