How to Make a Whistle From a Soda Can

One of the most common items included in a basic survival kit is a whistle. This essential tool can mean the difference between life and death if lost in the wilderness. Along with signal fires, the call of a whistle is just about the only way for search crews to locate you when you’re in a dense forest or hilly terrain. Whistles are so useful that many pieces of outdoor gear integrate them into their design, including headlamps and backpack straps.

But, despite how common they are, plenty of people hit the trail without one. If you’re adventuring this weekend and don’t have a whistle, you can whip one up in your house in just a few minutes and for literally no cost at all (unless you happen to be fully without beer/soda). Knowing how to make one on the fly could also come in handy in a survival scenario (discarded cans can often be scavenged even in the woods); while I use things like a ruler and marker below, a rough version could be accomplished with just a pocket knife and can.

Note: Be careful when working with aluminum. Jagged edges can be razor sharp, and it can be easy to cut yourself when completing this project.  

Supplies 

1. Ruler
2. Aluminum can
3. Scissors (or knife) 
4. Marker

Step 1: Cut off the top and bottom of the can.

Step 2: Trim the resulting cylinder so that you get one long sheet when laid flat.