Quick Answer
In SERE courses, building a shelter involves selecting a safe location, gathering materials, and constructing a sturdy yet low-visibility structure that can protect against the elements and potential observers.
Site Selection and Preparation
In a survival situation, selecting the right location for your shelter is crucial. Look for a spot that provides natural protection from wind, rain, and sun, as well as potential observers. This can be a depression in the ground, a group of trees, or a rocky outcropping. Ensure the site is clear of any hazards, such as standing water, loose rocks, or steep slopes. If you’re in a forest, consider using the “lean-to” method, where you create a shelter by leaning branches against a tree, securing them with rope or wire.
Shelter Construction
Once you’ve selected your site, gather materials for your shelter. For a lean-to shelter, you’ll need two sturdy branches, rope or wire, and a tarp or plastic sheet. Attach the branches to the tree using the rope or wire, creating a sloping roof. Cover the roof with the tarp or plastic sheet, securing it with rocks or sticks. If you don’t have a tarp, you can use leaves, grasses, or pine needles to create a thatched roof. For a debris hut, gather smaller branches and leaves, piling them into a dome-shaped structure. Secure the structure with stakes or heavy rocks.
Final Touches and Concealment
When constructing your shelter, remember to keep it low to the ground and blend in with your surroundings. Use natural materials to conceal the structure, such as branches and leaves. Avoid creating a fire pit or smoke hole near your shelter, as this can give away your location. Instead, use a portable stove or cook away from your shelter. Finally, ensure your shelter is secure and won’t collapse in high winds or heavy rainfall.
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