But I needed to remember that my kit has to be designed to handle sub-freezing temperatures. What happens if that gallon jug of water freezes? How will I thaw it out in an emergency?
My solution was to pack half litre water bottles in my car. The theory being that if they freeze I can thaw them out as needed with my hexamine cooker. Sounded like a good theory, but it needed to be tested. I got that chance this winter when the temperature dropped to 20 degree Fahrenheit.
So I used my knife in my"Get Home Bag" to cut open the bottle of water and I placed it into the water bottle cup, which I placed on my hexamine cooker. It burned for about 7 or 8 minutes and completely thawed out the water, raising its temperature enough to make a mug of hot drinking chocolate. It was not so hot that it burned my mouth, but more like that temperature where you need to drink it while it still retains some heat.
My theory tested with positive results. Its good to know that it not only melted solid bottle of ice, but was able to produce water hot enough to make a mildly hot beverage in 20 degree Fahrenheit weather.
And remember, if you have thoughts and ideas for an emergency situation, test them out in advance to be sure not only the idea works, but the equipment as well.
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