Cama de pântano

Swamp Bed

In a marsh or swamp, or any area with

standing water or continually wet ground, the

swamp bed (Figure 5-10) keeps you out of the

water. When selecting such a site, consider the

weather, wind, tides, and available materials.

To make a swamp bed--

· Look for four trees clustered in a

rectangle, or cut four poles (bamboo is

ideal) and drive them firmly into the

ground so they form a rectangle. They

should be far enough apart and strong

enough to support your height and

weight, to include equipment.

· Cut two poles that span the width of

the rectangle. They, too, must be

strong enough to support your weight.

· Secure these two poles to the trees (or

poles). Be sure they are high enough

above the ground or water to allow for

tides and high water.

· Cut additional poles that span the

rectangle's length. Lay them across the

two side poles, and secure them.

· Cover the top of the bed frame with

broad leaves or grass to form a soft

sleeping surface.

· Build a fire pad by laying clay, silt, or

mud on one comer of the swamp bed

and allow it to dry.

Another shelter designed to get you above and

out of the water or wet ground uses the same

rectangular configuration as the swamp bed.

You very simply lay sticks and branches

lengthwise on the inside of the trees (or poles)

until there is enough material to raise the

sleeping surface above the water