Стигнахме до последната, десета точка от нашия списък с “Десетте най-важни елемента”. Често хората, които тръгват на лека разходка около Bansko, смятат, че emergency shelter They don't need it because they don't intend to sleep in the forest. But in the mountains, intentions and reality often diverge.
Imagine the following scenario: it's 4:00 PM, you're descending from Polezhan Peak, the weather breaks down and one errant rock leads to a broken ankle. You can no longer walk. Your phone has no range or battery. The temperature drops sharply, it starts to rain, and help won't come until morning. At that moment, the small bag at the bottom of your backpack is the only thing standing between you and deadly hypothermia.
The minimum: Space Blanket
It's the bare minimum that everyone, from a child to a veteran mountaineer, should have in their pocket. Developed by NASA in the 1960s, this thin metallized foil is a marvel of technology.
How does it work?
- Reflection: The silver side reflects up to 90% of body heat back to you, creating a microclimate.
- Protection: It is completely windproof and waterproof.
- Visibility: The shiny surface is visible from miles away and helps mountain rescuers (MSRs) or helicopters find you more easily.
A common mistake is to wrap yourself up like a “chicken in foil.” The foil works by reflecting heat, so there needs to be a small layer of air between you and it. If you stick it tightly to your skin, the conduction of the cold from the outside will cool you down quickly.
Level 2: Bivy Sack
If you are doing more serious hikes in the high parts of Pirin (The horse, Watchmen), the foil can be torn by the strong wind. Here comes the bivouac bag.
| Characteristics | Rescue foil | Emergency Bivouac Sack |
|---|---|---|
| Form | A simple rectangular sheet (blanket). You need to hold it with your hands. | Sack (bag). You go inside whole. |
| Sustainability | Fragile, easily broken by wind and sharp stones. | Stronger polyethylene, withstands storms. |
| Price | 5 – 10 BGN. | 30 – 60 BGN. |
The plastic bag: The cheap solution
Don't have the budget for specialized equipment? Go to the hardware store in Bansko and buy a **large, thick construction waste bag** (heavy duty). It weighs grams, costs pennies, but is completely waterproof. In an emergency, you can cut a hole for your face and get in there. This will stop the wind and rain – the two factors that kill the fastest.
Psychology of shelter
In addition to physical protection, the presence of emergency shelter gives a huge psychological advantage. When a person realizes that they are lost and will have to spend the night outside, panic is the biggest enemy. Knowing that you can “hide” from the elements calms the mind, reduces adrenaline and allows you to think clearly and plan your actions for the morning.
Conclusion of the series
This concludes our review of the “Ten Most Important Elements” for a mountain. From the right knife, to navigation, to rescue foil – every gram in your backpack matters. Pirin is a majestic mountain that gives a lot, but demands respect.
Be prepared, be sensible and always come home with good stories, not with your participation in the news chronicle of accidents. Have a nice and safe hike!
English (UK)