WHEN THE TENT LEAKS

Evening Post, Volume CXVIII, Issue 90, 13 October 1934, Page 6

WHEN THE TENT LEAKS

Many of us will make, the acquaintance of tents during the next few months, even if only in our own back gardens, and it is always fts well to bo prepared for leaks, for such calamities are by no means confined to inexperienced campers, . Sometimes, it is true, leaks may be stopped by simply running one's jingor down the inside of the tent, says the "Manchester Guardian," but usually more drastic measures are called for. Paraffin wax, melted and poured over the leak, should serve'- the -purpose;' bzoeerite mineral wax is not so brittle and adheres better. Should neither be available, lanoline or adhesive plaster should be tried. The latter is particularly successful, being both waterproof /ml airtight. , Rubber-mending tissue is good for patching a tent, both tissue nnd patch being pressed over the rent with a hot iron or a hot smooth stone.

' If the top of a tent gives way wholly or in part at an inconvenient moment, an enamel basin put on top of the pole under the canvas will distribute .the strain and act well as a . temporary measure. If a split should occur, bind a groundsheet over it by putting a noose twice round the tent. This will at least keep the rain from pouring in.

To mend a rent, do not draw the material up into a clumsy scam. It should be cross-stitched flat, to prevent rucks,