RAFTS / FLOATATION DEVICES

If the water is warm enough for swimming and you do not have the time or materials to construct one of the poncho-type rafts, you can use various flotation devices to negotiate the water obstacle. Some items you can use for flotation devices are--

Trousers Wet the trousers before you try to inflate and trap the air better. You may have to re-inflate the trousers several times when crossing a large body of water Knot each trouser leg at the bottom and zip up the fly. With both hands, grasp the waistband at the sides and swing the trousers above your head to trap air in each leg. Quickly press the sides of the waistband together and hold it underwater so that the air will not escape. You now have water wings to keep you afloat as you cross the body of water

Empty containers Lash together empty gas cans, plastic bottles, water carriers, cans, boxes, or other items that will trap or hold air. Use them as water wings. Use this type of flotation device only in a slow-moving river or stream

Plastic bags and ponchos Fill two or more plastic bags with air and secure them together at the opening. Use your poncho and roll green vegetation tightly inside it so that you have a roll at least 20 centimetres in diameter. Tie the ends of the roll securely. You can wear it around your waist or across one shoulder and under  opposite arms

Logs Use a stranded drift log if one is available, or find a log near the water to use as a float. Be sure to test the log before starting to cross. Some tree logs, palm for example, will sink even when the wood is dead. Another method is to tie two logs about 60 centimetres apart. Sit between the logs with your back against one and your legs over the other

It is suggested that you test out each one of these ideas before you enter into the outback  / wild There are many other flotation devices that you can devise by using your imagination.