The Main Requirements for Building a Shelter.

There are no standardized requirements for creating a shelter. Everything depends on the situation and the environmental conditions in which we find ourselves. There are shelters for tropical forests, subtropical forests, deserts, and polar regions. It all depends on the local wisdom and standards. In the world of survival, there’s a term known as ‘act like the natives,’ which can be interpreted as behaving like the local inhabitants. The locals can be humans or animals. In other words, we must adapt to the environment.

By understanding the surroundings, we can utilize what is available as our primary means of protection and self-defense. Shelter is our primary weapon. With a place of refuge, we will feel safe. This plays a significant role in stabilizing our psychological state.

Building a shelter is not just a matter of constructing something hastily. There are several conditions that must be met for our shelter to function as it should, namely, as a place of refuge. These conditions are as follows:

1. The location chosen should not be a wildlife path. You wouldn’t want a tiger suddenly passing by while you’re peacefully sleeping.
2. There should be no fragile trees in the vicinity.
3. The shelter should be situated at an elevated location or away from waterlogging, floods, and landslides. Do not erect a shelter beneath cliffs.
4. Do not build the shelter near rotten, fallen trees.
5. Try to place the shelter close to a water source.
6. Position the shelter near vegetation that can be used for protection, food, and fuel.
7. Make the most effective use of the space. Avoid creating an overly large shelter area.

The requirements for building a shelter are, in essence, similar to establishing a human settlement because creating a place of refuge is at the core of human self-defense.

Source : https://www.indosurvival.com