Well here is something completely unexpected.  

I was checking out my ditch kit since this thread got me thinking about it again.  My silver space blanket type sleeping bag is now a mostly clear mylar sleeping bag.  I've had the bag for a few years and have given it a casual inspection after past trips ... just not since I return from trips this season.

I guess I'll be buying a replacement!  So, here is another important tip ... recheck EVERYTHING before you head into the backcountry.

On the good news side, I did confirm that my Swedish fire steel would ignite a Vaseline impregnated cotton ball ... only took a couple or three swipes down the steel and POOF!  BTW:  I added the fire steel to my ditch kit because I do a fair number of early season trips.  It doesn't take too many minutes in icy cold water to make you "ham handed" enough that you probably couldn't operate a typical cigarette lighter.  I can operate the fire steel even wearing gloves!

dd