The thought of getting thrown into the ocean, a river or fast-moving lake with no life jacket is pretty darn terrifying, particularly if already afraid of water. Whether you find yourself in deep water from a capsized boat or other means, knowing how to make a flotation device can definitely save you from certain doom. Let’s look at a few DIY flotation device options that could easily save your life:
Pants
Believe it or not, the clothes on your back work as effective flotation devices! Try to tread water as you work your way out of your pants, and remember to take off your shoes, as they’re only weighing you down at this juncture. Tie the end of each leg as quickly as possible, and button and or zip the pants as well. Hold the pants up, squeeze as much water out of them as you can, then wave them above your head. This fills the pants with air. Knot the waist and voila–you have yourself a flotation device Perform the same actions with your shirt to create an additional device if necessary.
Dead Wood
Notice any logs or large branches floating around the body of water you’re trapped in? Use them to stay afloat. If you happen to have rope, twine or other binding item on your person, try gathering multiple floating logs/branches to make yourself a small raft.
Plastic and Tote Bags
A plastic bag works as a flotation device in the same way clothing does–wave it around to fill it with air, then tie the end. The same is true of a tote bag.
Empty Containers
Empty containers such as plastic one-gallon jugs work well as flotation devices, as do empty fuel containers.
Additional Tips
When stuck in a body of water, rid yourself of all unnecessary objects, such as hats and jewelry. If in freezing water, it’s a good idea to keep your socks on, but anything else that can be tossed, should be.
Now you can add ‘flotation device’ to your list of survival skills!
Have you found yourself in a situation where a DIY flotation device was necessary? Share your story in the comments section!
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