How to Live in an Igloo

Generally speaking, people do not live in snow igloos anymore. They are used in certain cultures when going out to hunt and fish, by others for winter camping and some build them just for fun. They may not be the most comfortable shelters in the world, but they provide reliable, solid housing when needed.

Things You'll Need

• Source of heat and light (stove and fuel)
• Twigs to insulate bed
• Furs for warmth
• Hunting and fishing gear
• Flap for front end of tunnel
• Snow windbreak
• Warm clothing

Instructions

1. Ventilate the igloo to insure a proper vent for smoke and exchange of air. A properly built igloo is not very large; it's meant to accommodate one family. A small stove or heating pan filled with burning seal oil is used to heat an igloo, and the danger of asphyxiation can present serious problems.

2. Build an entrance/exit tunnel. It should be approximately 10 feet long for protection against the wind with enough room for storage along the sides. A sealskin flap is attached to the outer end of the tunnel to help keep drafts from entering the igloo.

3. Make an oblong platform out of snow to sleep on. This is covered with brush and twigs and covered with furs for warmth and comfort. Always wear warm clothing to prevent hypothermia. It is much warmer inside an igloo than outdoors, but not warm enough to be careless about losing body heat.

4. Construct a wall of snow a few feet from the entrance of the tunnel. It should curve around the sides and protect the entryway from the cold wind. If possible, build the igloo in a protected area to lessen the danger of being buried in a snowstorm. Many people have died in their sleep from lack of oxygen due to inadequate protection.

5. Develop hunting and fishing skills; this includes the ability to skin animals for meat, blubber (seals) and the furs necessary for warmth. Meat and fish are the main sources of food for those living in cold, snowy climates. The stove inside the igloo is not only used as a source of heat, but also for cooking.