An Anderson shelter is a portable and temporary shelter made from lightweight materials that can be built quickly for outdoor survival situations. To build your own Anderson shelter, you will need 10-15 feet of poles or branches, 3-4 large tarps or plastic sheets, rocks or stakes to secure the shelter in place, a small amount of cord or rope for lashing, and a knife or scissors for cutting the tarp.
To build the shelter, find a flat, open area with good drainage that is large enough for you and your gear to fit comfortably. Gather all materials, create a lean-to frame using poles or branches, drape tarps over it, anchor them down with rocks or stakes, add a windbreak using branches or poles, and add any necessary items like sleeping gear, food, and water.
While an Anderson shelter is great for short-term use, it’s important to follow safety tips such as avoiding floodplains, checking for hazards, carrying a knife, staying aware of your surroundings, and being prepared for sudden weather changes. An Anderson shelter can last between 24 and 72 hours with the right materials and care, and can be safe for children in supervised environments. However, it is not designed for long-term use in cold weather, but extra layers of insulation like blankets or bivvy sacks can be added to stay warm.
