BASIC LIST / SUGGESTED ITEMS FOR LONG TERM SURVIVAL

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Inventory Management for Survival Supplies http://readynutrition.com/resources/inv ... _15022010/

Alternate Flour Sources http://readynutrition.com/resources/alt ... _15022009/

Prepping With Wheat Allergies http://readynutrition.com/resources/pre ... _07112009/

First Time Shopping List For An Emergency Food Supply http://readynutrition.com/resources/fir ... _03022011/

Store Your Food and Be Ready http://readynutrition.com/resources/sto ... _14122009/



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Are You Ready Series: Best Practices For Long Term Food Storage


Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
April 2011

http://readynutrition.com/wp-content...od-storage.jpgArchaic food caches have been found all over the world. The fact that our ancestors planned for the unexpected gives us a clear picture into their unpredictable lifestyle. Foods such as nuts, extra tools and foraging tools were put away for a time when they were needed the most (Source). Of course, the lifetimes of these preps were contingent upon proper storage methods.
These days, we know much more about proper techniques for food packaging. With the proper storage tools a person can store many different types of foods indefinitely. Learning how to store food is cost effective, simple to understand and is a life saver if an emergency arises.
Many preppers like to choose a multi-barrier system to store their food. This barrier system is for long term purposes, and will keep natural elements such as sunlight, moisture and air out of the container when sealed.
Storing Food in Containers
Any food that you plan to store indefinitely, should be stored in food grade containers. These containers will not transfer any non-food chemicals into the food, nor are their any chemicals within the container that are hazardous to humans. Typically a food grade container has a #2 by the recycle symbol or the acronymn ”HDPE” stamp on the bottom (HPDE stands for “high density polyethylene”). Before any food is to be stored, clean the containers with soapy water, rinse and dry thoroughly. 5 gallon plastic containers are the most popular amongst those who store bulk quantities of food.
Additionally, make sure that the lid you purchase for your container is air tight and spill proof. Lids with gaskets and gamma lids are great lids as they do not require a lid opener. They are typically a little more expensive compared to the traditional bucket lid. However, they are easier to open and close, and are worth every penny!
Food Liner
Research has shown that over time, slow amounts of oxygen seep through the walls of plastic containers. Consequently, over time natural elements, and even insects can find a way inside the container. To add additional protection, adding a food liner, such as Mylar bags will ensure that there are multiple barriers for the food to be protected in. Investing in the thickest grade of Mylar would be a good investment for your food storage endeavors. Simply because if properly cared for, mylar bags can last up to 20 years! Additionally, the thicker grade Mylar makes a big difference in the taste of food. The greatest part of investing in these food liners is that because they are so durable they can be reused over and over again.
For those who are investing in a shorter term food supply, many simply pour the food contents into mylar bags, add an oxygen absorber and properly seal the bag closed. This will keep a short term food supply fresh over a given period of time.
Oxygen Absorber Packets and Dessicant Packets
Using oxygen absorbers greatly prolongs the shelf life of stored food. Because it absorbs the oxygen from the container, it inhibits the growth of aerobic pathogens and molds. Oxygen absorbers begin working the moment they are exposed to oxygen. Therefore, it is best to work as efficiently as possible. Oxygen absorbers come in different sizes, so pay attention to the size needed for the container. Typically, 2,000 cc’s of oxygen absorbers should be added in one 5 gallon bucket. Oxygen absorbers are not edible, not toxic and does not effect the smell and taste of the product.
Desiccant packets moderate the moisture level when placed in a food container. They do not absorb the moisture. Please note that desiccant is not edible. If the packet somehow breaks open and spills onto the stored food, the entire contents of the container must be thrown away. There are certain food items that desiccant should not be added to. Specifically, flour, sugar and salt. These items need a certain amount of moisture to stay activated, and if desiccant is added to it, they will turn into a hard brick.
*Bonus*
To prevent bug infestations, use diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth are the fossilized remains of diatoms. They are organic and are safe to use on food. Use 1 cup to each 25 pounds of food.
The Sealing Process

• Place the Mylar bag into the 5 gallon container.
• Add your oxygen absorbers or desiccant to the bottom of the bag to ensure all sections of the container are protected. Also, remember you will be adding an absorber at the top of the Mylar bag as well.
• Begin pouring contents into the Mylar bag.
• When you have poured the contents into the Mylar bag and have hit the middle section of the being filled, shake the Mylar bag from time to time to make sure the food gets into the crevices of the bag.
• Continue adding food to the mylar bag until you hit your desired amount. I usually stop 3/4 to the top.
• Next, begin folding the Mylar down in order to get trapped air to escape out the gap.
• Once the air is out, begin sealing the Mylar. A person can use a heat clamp or they can seal their Mylar bags with a simple at home iron put on the highest setting. If the home iron method is used, make sure you have a hard surface such as a cutting board or book to iron on and slowly go over the Mylar bag. Note: this method must be done gently and slowly or the Mylar will be damaged. Seal straight across the Mylar bag in a straight line. Leave the last 2-3 inches unsealed in order to push the last remaining air out of the bag.
• Once the trapped air has been pushed out, seal the last 2-3 inches.
• Push the sealed Mylar bag into the container. Optional: Add another oxygen absorber on top of the sealed Mylar bag. Place the lid on the container and make sure the lid is on completely.
• Store in a dark storage area, where temperatures, moisture levels and sunlight do not fluctuate.

Where Do I Purchase These Products?

• The Ready Store – For smaller scale purchases
• Amazon - For smaller scale purchases
• Ropak – For large quantity purchases
• Sorbent Systems – For large quantity purchases
• Call around to different restaurants around your area and see if they have any food grade containers with lids that you can have. Typically, restaurants are happy to give these away as they have no need for these containers after they are used. This could save you a lot of money investing in food grade containers.

Food is an investment into your future and your family’s livelihood. Therefore, you must do all that you can to protect that investment for the long term. Using the multi-barrier system will ensure that the food is stored in optimal conditions and that the contents inside are protected for the long term.


Related Reading:

• Week 19 of 52: Food Storage Tools
• Get Prepped Newsletter: September 9, 2011
• Meet Your Emergency Food’s Worst Enemies
• Food Storage Demystified
• Fox News Demonstration: Long Term Food Storage Basics – How to Pack Rice, Wheat, Beans and Dry Goods

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Dual Sport SHTF Motorcycles

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SHTF Motorcycle

When its bug out time, roads may be clogged with traffic or strewn with debris. A bug out motorcycle may be a good choice. In this picture a Kawasaki Super Sherpa is ready for both highway and off road bugging out.

The Urban Survivalist has a post on using Motorcycles for SHTF bugging out. While moving out an entire family on a motorcycle is certainly problematic, for the single man or woman urban apartment dweller that has a minimum of belongings that require taking along with them this makes good sense for a variety of reasons including:

• Excellent gas mileage. Even the largest motorcycles have gas mileage that is comparable to small cars. Smaller bikes get in the range of 60 mpg.

• Improved mobility. Motorcycles can negotiate terrain that cars cannot.

They can maneuver through traffic jams and debris strewn streets and even go across lots and off road using railroad tracks and trails if need be. You can even rig a raft for your motorcycle to ford streams and lakes where bridges are down, clogged with traffic or non-existent try that with a car or truck!

• Increased awareness. Survival Topics has always stressed the importance of being aware of ones surroundings. From spotting potential threats to encountering unexpected opportunities for acquiring food and water supplies, riding on an open motorcycle as opposed to being esconced within a vehicle means you will be more aware of the areas you are traveling through.

• Easier Maintenance. A motorcycle is easier and less expensive to maintain and repair than a car or truck.

When the infrastructure begins to collapse many roads will likely be maintained little if at all. In a short time they will become virtually impassible to all but the most nimble of transportation. When that happens traveling on foot, by bicycle, and on motorcycle may be the only viable options.

A good choice for a motorcycle bug out vehicle would be a dual sport motorcycle since this would have no problems handling rough off-road terrain AND cruising highways. Good choices for entry level SHTF motorcycles include the Kawasaki Super Sherpa, the Yamaha TW 200 and the Suzuki DR-200. Of course, do your research and test ride as many bikes as you can to find what works best for you.

You can read the Urban Survivalist's take on SHTF Motorcycling here. http://theurbansurvivalist.blogspot.com ... -shtf.html

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KTM 250SX-F & Kawasaki Super Sherpa - High Speed Runs

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Super Sherpa Hill climb

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Friday, March 25, 2011

Creating a Home Evacuation Plan - Part 1

Home Evacuation Plans can be useful for many different types of disasters: hurricanes, tsunamis, and statistically more common, house fires. Home Evacuation Plans can be life-saving for you and the ones you love.

Everyone in your family should know the plan, even the little ones, so set aside an evening when the whole family can get together to make your emergency escape plan. Follow these simple steps and you will be ready for evacuation.

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Home Map Example (click for free handout) http://beprepared.com/images/art/Fire Escape.pdf

The first thing we are going to focus on is making a map of your home. On the map of your home you should consider including the following:

•Label every exit which may become a potential fire escape

• In every room, label the primary exit and a secondary exit in case the primary exit is blocked

• Label every room where a family member sleeps

• Label the main shutoff valves of the gas, electricity, and water lines

• Establish a safe meeting place outside the home so everyone can be accounted for

• Label where all smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are located

• Try to limit evacuation procedures to three or four steps

The U.S. Fire Administration has a handout available that could be very helpful as you create your own Home Evacuation Plan. That handout and more reminders can be found here. http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/campaigns/usfap ... e_grid.pdf

In part two we will talk about the importance of practicing your home escape plan.

Posted by Emergency Essentials® at 4:18 PM

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Thursday, March 17, 2011

Emergency Essentials in the News

Between stories in the news about last week's earthquake and tsunami in Japan and all the problems Japan is facing with their nuclear facilities, it's no wonder that Emergency Preparedness has been pushed to the front of many of our minds.

Recently, KSL visited our South Jordan store location to report on the increased demand of emergency supplies. Click here for the text version of the article. http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=14758351

Video at the link: http://preparednesspantry.blogspot.com/ ... -news.html

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Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Freeze-Dried Mozzarella Cheese (I Love Cheese and had no idea) :D

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The Top 50 Survival Blogs!

1

SHTF Plan

2	Survival Blog

3	The Survival Podcast

4	Urban Survival

5	The Survivalist Blog

6	In Case Of Emergency, Read Blog

7	The Survival & Emergency Preparedness Blog

8	Survival And Prosperity

9	The Survival Mom

10	American Preppers Network

11	WillowHavenOutdoor.com

12	Survival Topics

13	Pioneer Survival Blog

14	Preparedness Pantry

15	Off Grid Survival

16	Disaster Preparedness Blog

17	Ice-Qube - Emergency Preparedness Blog

18	Wilderness Survival Skills

19	Surviving In Argentina

20	CARD\'s blog

21	Modern Survival Blog

22	Backwoods Survival Blog

23	Back Door Survival

24	Modern Survival Online

25	Texas Prepper\'s Network

26	Preparedness and Response

27	Shepherd School

28	Stealth Survival

29	Save Our Skills

30	Be A Survivor

31	Bug-Out Survival

32	Total Survivalist Libertarian Rantfest

33	Doug Ritter

34	ATEP Emergency Preparedness Blog

35	Survival Joe

36	Preparedness Pro

37	The Just In Case Book Blog

38	TEOTWAWKI Blog

39

SHTF Blog

40	SHTF America

41	International Preparedness Network

42	Emergency Survival and Preparedness Blog

43	Code Name Bullseye

44	Keep It Simple Survival

45	Survival Times

46	Advanced Survival Guide

47	If It Hits The Fan

48	Survival Common Sense

49	Emergency Preparedness Blog

50	The Retreat

http://www.survivaltop50.com/

=> View these other great Survival Blogs that almost made the Top 50!

http://www.survivaltop50.com/runners-up/