Based upon the original premise of having several books of matches, I would not resort to extraordinary means to preserve the matches, other than keeping them dry. Once started, my goal would be to maintain the existing fire or even increase the number of fire circles to increase my chance of maintaining the fire, as well as increasing my signaling ability.

My experience with these matches is fairly good in good weather. Again ensuring the appropriate tinder, kindling and fuel wood, I would likely slip a few matches into my tinder to give it that extra oomph. Depending upon the weather conditions, I might try and start the fire under my shelter, moving it to a prepared fire circle with plenty of kindling and fuel wood.

The only tricks I know with book matches are the ones my dad used (he was a heavy smoker) and that was to fold the cover back over the top place the match between the striker and the cover press firmly and pull the match out quickly. I have used this technique on numerous occasions and generally will get those stubborn ones to light. The other technique was to cup the match as he lit it to light up his cigarette. Pete