Ep 2. Alaska Special 2

The seventh season of the popular TV show called ‘Mythbusters’ has an episode named ‘Alaska Special 2’, which is the second part of the Alaska series of episodes that the show aired. The episode itself is about sixty minutes long and continues on the themes of the first episode, including exploring myths related to survival in harsh and extreme environments.

The episode begins with the duo of Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman exploring the process of lighting a fire in extreme cold conditions. They experiment with different materials that are available in the environment, such as moss, sticks, and grass. They also use duct tape, which they have found to be extremely effective in starting fires, even in tough and frigid conditions.

Another experiment that is conducted in the episode relates to the importance of shelter in extreme weather conditions. Adam and Jamie set out to create a shelter that can protect them from rain, wind, and snow. They construct a makeshift shelter from branches and other materials available in the surrounding area, testing its ability to resist various harsh conditions.

The duo also explores the importance of hydration in very cold climates. They collect snow and ice and test various methods of converting it into drinkable water. They also experiment with other liquids that can provide hydration such as urine and various types of tree sap.

A significant part of the episode focuses on the myth that certain types of fish, such as salmon, can be caught by hand in icy rivers or streams. The myth has long been held to be true in some regions of Alaska by indigenous communities, but there's no scientific evidence to verify it. Adam and Jamie spend time testing various methods of catching fish, including netting, spearfishing, and traditional line and hook setups in extremely cold water.

The episode concludes with a test to see whether a person could survive a fall into icy water with their clothes still on. Adam and Jamie conduct an experiment that simulates a person falling through the ice on a frozen lake and measuring the amount of time before hypothermia sets in. They test how long a person can survive in clothes that are wet and freezing cold, seeing how various materials can provide warmth and shelter to the body.

Overall, ‘Alaska Special 2’ is an intense and informative episode of ‘Mythbusters’ that explores many myths and ideas related to survival in extremely challenging and tough environments. The hosts of the show conduct various experiments to test the myths, giving viewers a valuable lesson on what it takes to survive in harsh conditions. The show encourages safe and smart exploration, with the hosts often sharing strategies and tips for those who may find themselves in these kinds of situations.