Stupid idea

[sh2dow]

Coals release large amounts of carbon monoxide , space blankets are highly flammable, hot sand in a tin can will work for several hours but will take a while
to heat up and would need space to keep from igniting surroundings.

[zooshooter]

I have been thinking about space blankets lately. What do you think of putting hot coals on top of one and then laying them under the hammock to keep you warm in the night?

Possible downfalls-

1) could start a flame and BBQ you in the night

2) could step on them when exiting your hammock

4) could smoke you out


Just an idea, what do you think?

Since I don't see it specifically addressed here, space blankets are flammable because they're just a thin plastic sheet. One side, or both, is aluminized but that coating is not going to hold up to hot coals.

Another thing to consider is this. Let's say that you do dig a fire trench to keep warm. Chances are the extra heat from the trench is going to make you want to sleep less well insulated so that that heat can reach you and warm you. What happens if that fire trench goes cold in the middle of the night? Suddenly you're under-insulated for the weather and not aware of it until it wakes you up.

Personally I'd rather leave the fire in the fire-ring and rely on adequate insulation in my quilts to keep me warm.