Natural Shelters Part 3

Do not overlook natural formations that provide shelter. Examples are caves, rocky crevices, clumps of bushes, small depressions, large rocks on leeward sides of hills, large trees with low-hanging limbs, and fallen trees with thick branches. However, when selecting a natural formation--

• Stay away from low ground such as ravines, narrow valleys, or creek beds. Low areas collect the heavy cold air at night and are therefore colder than the surrounding high ground. Thick, brushy, low ground also harbors more insects.

• Check for poisonous snakes, ticks, mites, scorpions, and stinging ants.

• Look for loose rocks, dead limbs, coconuts, or other natural growth than could fall on your shelter.