How to build an igloo
The word igloo is derived from the Inuit word igdlu, meaning house. Constructing a long-term snow shelter, an igloo,
is relatively easy. Sheltering from the wind is the first priority, because temperatures below -10 degrees are very
unpleasant and the wind can drastically decrease the air temperature. Here are the 10 easy steps to build an igloo:
1. Cut blocks from hard snow, suitable for obtaining solid snow blocks, using a large knife, a saw, or a snow spade.
These snow blocks should be about 1 m long, 0.2 m deep and 0.5 m high. You should now have created a hole in the snow,
where you cut the blocks, which is suitable for shelter for a couple of persons.
2. Now, form a circle with these snow blocks around this hole, placing the blocks along the perimeter of your circle.
3. Shape the snow blocks so that they are angled towards the center. Build up the walls of the igloo, overlapping the snow blocks.
4. Stuff the cracks between the blocks with snow as the walls build.
5. Cut a hole under the wall for the entrance.
6. Put several blocks inside the igloo, along the wall as sleeping platform.
7. Place the last block on top of the igloo, then, from inside, shape it to match exactly into the hole.
This last block must be somewhat larger than the hole.
8. It is vital to make a few ventilation holes in the roof of the igloo, to avoid suffocation.
9. Put a roof over the entrance to prevent snow from blowing into your snow shelter.
10. Once the igloo is finished, ignite a lamp inside. The warmth inside the igloo begins to melt the interior of the snow blocks.
Then the surface will freeze over, congealing into ice.
A suitable igloo for sheltering can be built in just a few hours. Don't forget adequate ventilation.
|
|
|
