Waterproof Matches
Light a fire during an emergency with a waterpoof match
Waterproof matches are an essential part of any survival kit; while you can live for weeks without food and days without water, in certain situations you can only live for hours without adequate heat. Since there’s no way to know when a disaster will strike, or what kind of environment you’ll be forced to deal with, having a safe supply of waterproof matches increases your odds of getting the warmth you need to survive.
You can find waterproof matches at any hardware or department store that sells camping and fishing equipment. It’s also easy to make waterproof matches yourself. The procedure takes just a few minutes and only requires wax and a matchbook.
To make your matches waterproof:
- Slowly melt the wax in a shallow pan.
- Dip at least ⅓ of the match in the wax – or for maximum protection, coat the entire match.
- Carefully remove the match and allow it to dry.
- Remove any excessive wax with a fingernail, or do this just prior to striking.
- Store in a plastic film or pill bottle; make sure to include the friction strip or a piece of sandpaper to light your matches with.
- Tip: For the best results, use a strike anywhere match.
Why Are Waterproof Matches Essential for Safety?
- Matches provide an essential source of heat and light in an emergency.
- Matches allow you to light fires, barbecues and emergency candles.
- Survival time in cold environments without adequate heat may only be a matter of hours.
- Waterproof matches increase your odds of creating heat in bad weather.
Things to Consider when Choosing Waterproof Matches
- Match types, including paper matchbooks and long or short wooden matchsticks
- The amount of matches needed to survive at least 72 hours without heat; wholesale waterproof matches allow you to purchase in larger quantities for added savings
Top Brands of Waterproof Matches
- Stansport waterproof matches
- Texsport waterproof matches
- Coghlan’s waterproof matches
