As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding trips and writing about the outdoors, I’ve heard a lot of stories around the campfire. And a surprising number of them revolve around using alcohol – or the ingredients for it – in survival situations. The question of whether you can use deer corn for moonshine, or if whiskey is flammable enough to start a fire, pops up more often than you’d think. Let's be clear: while the idea of improvising with alcohol might seem resourceful, it’s fraught with dangers and often based on misinformation. This article will delve into these myths, explore the realities of alcohol’s properties, and discuss the serious risks associated with relying on it in the wilderness. We’ll cover everything from the legality of backcountry brewing to the very real dangers of attempting to use alcohol for fire starting or even, as some suggest, as a makeshift medical treatment. We'll also touch on some of the more… creative… ideas, like using beer tabs for fish hooks and the surprising question of whether fish can survive in alcohol.
The appeal is understandable. Alcohol represents potential energy, a source of warmth (in theory), and even a perceived antiseptic. But the reality is far more complex and often dangerous. Let’s break down some common beliefs:
The short answer is: technically, yes. But practically, and legally, absolutely not. The process of fermentation requires specific knowledge, controlled temperatures, and a significant amount of time. Attempting to create moonshine in the backcountry is not only incredibly difficult but also illegal. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has strict regulations regarding the production of alcohol, and violating these laws carries serious penalties. Furthermore, improperly fermented alcohol can contain dangerous levels of methanol, which can cause blindness or even death. Don't even consider it. Focus on proven survival skills instead.
You might have heard stories about the “Whiskey Lighting” tradition in Put-in-Bay, Ohio, where whiskey is purportedly used to ignite a pile of wood. While high-proof whiskey is flammable, relying on it as a primary fire starter in a survival situation is incredibly risky and inefficient. Whiskey (typically 40% alcohol) doesn’t ignite easily, and you’d need a substantial amount to get a sustainable flame going. You’re better off carrying reliable fire starters like waterproof matches, a ferro rod, or commercially available fire starter cubes. REI’s expert advice emphasizes the importance of redundancy when it comes to fire starting, and whiskey simply doesn’t fit into a reliable system.
Similar to whiskey, the idea that is beer flammable is a dangerous misconception. While beer contains alcohol, its concentration is far too low (typically 3-8%) to be effectively flammable. Attempting to use beer to start a fire is likely to result in a sticky mess and wasted effort. The water content in beer further diminishes any potential flammability.
The notion of creating a potent alcohol source from readily available ingredients, like the idea of Life Saver vodka, is another dangerous myth. While fermentation can occur with various sugars, controlling the process and ensuring the resulting product is safe for consumption is nearly impossible in a wilderness setting. The risks of methanol poisoning are simply too high.
Beyond the myths of using alcohol as a survival tool, consuming alcohol in a survival situation presents a multitude of dangers:
Alcohol impairs cognitive function, leading to poor judgment and increased risk-taking behavior. In a survival situation, clear thinking is paramount. You need to be able to assess risks, make sound decisions, and execute plans effectively. Alcohol compromises all of these abilities. The National Park Service consistently warns against the dangers of alcohol consumption in the backcountry due to its impact on judgment.
Alcohol dilates blood vessels, creating a false sense of warmth. This can actually accelerate heat loss in cold environments, increasing the risk of hypothermia. Conversely, in hot environments, alcohol can contribute to dehydration and increase the risk of heatstroke. Your body needs to regulate its temperature effectively, and alcohol interferes with this process.
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it promotes fluid loss. Dehydration is a serious threat in any survival situation, and alcohol exacerbates this risk. Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for physical and cognitive function.
Alcohol impairs motor skills and coordination, increasing the risk of falls, injuries, and accidents. Navigating challenging terrain, building shelter, or performing other survival tasks requires physical dexterity and coordination.
Let’s address some of the more unusual ideas I’ve encountered:
While pretty good at drinking beer tabs, and yes, a beer tab can be fashioned into a rudimentary fish hook, it’s far from ideal. The metal is often too soft and prone to bending, and creating a sharp, effective point requires significant skill and effort. A proper fishing kit is a much more reliable option.
I’ve seen people proudly display “Twisted Tea deer heads” (the plastic pull-tabs arranged to resemble antlers). While a fun novelty, it has absolutely no practical survival value. Don't waste your energy on such things.
The question of whether fish can survive in alcohol is a morbid one. The answer is generally no. Alcohol is toxic to fish, disrupting their gill function and causing death. Attempting to keep fish alive in alcohol is cruel and pointless.
Even if you’re considering carrying alcohol for personal consumption, be aware of local regulations. Some parks and wilderness areas prohibit alcohol entirely. Even where it’s permitted, consume responsibly and pack out all trash, including bottles and cans. While you might find deals at places like Save a Lot liquor stores before your trip, remember that responsible recreation is paramount.
Instead of relying on myths and dangerous improvisations, focus on developing and practicing essential survival skills. These include:
Resources like the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and the USDA Forest Service offer valuable information and training on responsible outdoor practices and survival skills.
As a seasoned outdoor professional, I strongly advise against relying on alcohol – or attempting to create it – in a survival situation. The risks far outweigh any perceived benefits. Focus on preparedness, practice essential skills, and prioritize safety. Leave the one beer can turn into fantasies and the questionable survival hacks at home, and enjoy the wilderness responsibly. Your life may depend on it.