The surprising uses of 3 familiar items in emergencies

1. ATM card

ATM cards are not only used to withdraw money. With its hardness and shape, you can use it as a first aid for bee stings or thorns in a deserted place, with no other suitable objects around.

Simply press the card into the skin and gently pry, and the bee stinger or barb will be removed.

2. Shoelaces

Shoelaces have many uses and can save you in a pinch. The most common way is to string them together and strung them between two trees or poles, tie the ends, and then cover them with a piece of cloth or nylon to create a temporary shelter. They can also be used as a homemade fishing line if tied to a sharp hook.

You can even start a fire using sturdy shoelaces. In the ancient method of drilling bows, shoelaces acted as bowstrings, combined with scavenged branches for bows, pieces of wood for kindling, and the "drilling" action of hands to generate heat. This is why hikers and explorers always wear lace-up sneakers.

3. All

Socks are often used to keep the feet and the whole body warm. However, socks are also a lifesaver in times of emergency, playing the role of collecting and filtering water.

The water then certainly cannot be as clean as the water you drink every day, but at least you can easily remove visible impurities and some small creatures.

Not only that, you can also pull yarn from socks to help start a fire, or wear them on your hands when you feel cold.

Thuy Linh