BASIC LIST / SUGGESTED ITEMS FOR LONG TERM SURVIVAL

The Three Most Important Wilderness Survival Items


The Three Most Important Wilderness Survival Items

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If you were unexpectedly stranded in a wilderness environment then your chances of survival would be significantly enhanced if you had three common items in your possession. This assumes you are not stranded in a barren wasteland, or in a frozen snow covered wilderness, or in a hot barren desert. Each of these situations would require a unique set of additional items.

However, assuming you are simply in a dense forest, or in a jungle, or on a tropical island, then the following three items would significantly improve your chances of survival:

1. a knife,
2. a new butane lighter, and
3. a compass.

The above three items are listed in the order of their importance to your survival. Let's examine each of the above three items one at a time.

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A Knife

Other than the will to live, the most important survival necessity is a basic hunting knife. A knife cannot be made from scratch in the middle of the wilderness. And there is no backup primitive tool that can perform all the functions of a modern steel knife. Therefore everyone should have a knife in his or her "possibilities bag." If you have a good knife then your chances of survival skyrocket even if you only have a little survival knowledge. However, if you don't have a knife then your chances of survival are greatly reduced regardless of how much survival knowledge you may have.

A knife has a multitude of practical uses such as providing you with:

1. Immediate protection and self-defense while you construct more suitable weapons.
2. The ability to quickly sharpen a strong stick to make a spear for hunting and for protection.
3. The ability to gradually and carefully build a handmade bow and arrows.
4. The ability to cut vines and/or animal hides into thin strips to use as cord so you can make or build things.
5. The ability to cut and build a variety of primitive traps and snares to capture wild game.
6. The ability to properly skin an animal and slice the meat into thin strips to make jerky.
7. The ability to properly scrap and prepare a deer skin so it can be brain tanned into a useful buckskin.
8. The ability to convert a buckskin into a nice pair of moccasins using method one or method two.

Either a fixed blade hunting knife or a high quality folding knife will work exceptionally well. I prefer a fixed blade knife in a sheath. However, if space is limited then a good folding knife is an excellent second choice. Since a knife is an absolutely critical necessity in a wilderness survival situation, I personally recommend that you have two different brands and types of knives in your "possibilities bag" in the event you lose or damage your primary hunting knife.

There are a number of companies that make good hunting knives, including Buck, Gerber, and Winchester.

The Buck Knife in the above left picture is a typical hunter's knife because of the shape of its blade and the fact that it has a "gut hook" that makes opening and skinning a dead animal relatively easy. The steel blade is in one piece and it extends all the way to the end of the handle which makes the knife very strong. The handle is riveted to the blade in three places. The knife has a composite handle that is easy to hold onto if it gets wet. The knife also has a "lanyard" hole at the handle end of the steel blade so you can tie the end of the knife to your belt, if you believe this would be appropriate. This knife is an excellent hunter's knife because of the short four-inch blade and the "gut hook." However it is not a good self-defense knife for these same two reasons.

The Gerber Knife in the above center-left picture is similar to the Buck Knife but it has a composite handle that completely surrounds the lower portion of the blade. This makes the knife very easy to control even if it gets wet while you are skinning an animal.

The Winchester Knife in the above center-right picture is a basic knife that is useful for a variety of tasks, including emergency self-defense. It has a solid steel blade that extends all the way to the far end of the handle, and it has a "lanyard" hole.

The Winchester Folding Knife in the above right picture has three blades - a standard knife blade, a gut hook, and a saw blade. Each blade locks into position when it is fully extended. This prevents the blade from accidentally closing onto your fingers while you are using the knife. To unlock the blade you must press the blade release lever at the handle end of the knife. This knife also comes with a belt sheath which is not visible in the above picture because it is behind the cardboard insert in the back of the plastic package.

There is a huge body of knowledge on knives and I do not intend to summarize all of that knowledge into this short article. However, I would like to make the following four comments:

1. A fixed blade knife that has a steel blade that extends all the way to the far end of the handle is a very strong knife. Some knives have blades that only extend about half-way down inside the handle. This is a cheaper production technique and it results in a weaker knife.
2. A "stainless steel blade" will never rust. A stainless steel blade is more difficult to sharpen but it will hold its edge longer than a non-stainless steel knife.
3. A belt sheath designed specifically for the knife will allow you to conveniently carry the knife on your belt so it will always be within easy reach.
4. To keep your knife sharp you will need an Arkansas Sharpening Stone or a Diamond Sharpening Stone. You will also need to learn the proper way to sharpen your knife.

As you gradually learn more about knives you will discover that different companies make specialty knives for every conceivable purpose. Because of the wide variety of applications it is very easy to become confused about the best knife choice for your particular situation. Therefore, please allow me to make the following recommendations:

1. Buy two knives.
2. Buy a name brand fixed blade knife without a gut hook for maximum flexibility and for self-defense, such as the Winchester Basic for about $16 (pictured above), or the Buck Model 119 for approximately $39 (picture on right). The Buck Model 119 is 10.25 inches long from end to end with a 5.75 inch steel blade that is approximately one-inch wide. The Buck knife in the picture on the right is a new knife but I have personally had one of these knives since 1972. I used my Buck Model 119 extensively during my Maine adventure in 1975. My old Buck knife is still in excellent condition. The only noticeable thing that Buck has changed over the years is the sheath design.
3. Also buy a name brand folding blade knife with a gut hook for skinning game, such as the Winchester Folding Knife pictured above. Your primary folding knife should have a maximum of no more than three or four blades.
4. Do not buy a Swiss Army Knife. If you want a "tool knife" then I suggest you consider the "Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool" for about $64.

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A New Butane Lighter

Fire is an absolute necessity for all the following reasons:

1. Boiling water to make it safe to drink.
2. Cooking fish, wild game, and wild plants to make them more palatable and digestible.
3. Providing heat for comfort if the temperature drops below a reasonable level at night.
4. Quickly lighting a brush fire that will create a lot of smoke to alert and guide rescue search parties, planes, helicopters, or boats to your exact location.

There are a variety of different ways to start a fire, including both modern and primitive methods. Modern methods include matches, butane lighters, magnesium fire starters, and a blast match.

There are also a wide variety of primitive fire starting methods. I suggest that you print a copy of all the different primitive fire starting methods that you find and keep them all together in a folder for future reference. One day that information may be useful to you. If you have absolutely nothing else to do you could follow those instructions and learn for yourself how truly challenging these primitive fire starting methods really are.

Each primitive fire starting method requires practice and a considerable amount of effort which can quickly exhaust you. Each primitive method is based on the application of either sparks or friction to elevate the temperature of extremely dry tinder material to the point where it will ignite.

The two times when you will desperately need a fire are during:

1. rainy weather when the air is very damp and humid, and
2. freezing weather when the combustible material is either frozen or very, very cold.

Under these types of adverse weather conditions all of the primitive fire starting methods are completely unreliable.

If the air is damp or humid then your sparks will encounter extra moisture in the air and they may not be hot enough to start a fire when they make contact with the tinder material, which is also surrounded by damp, humid air. If you are using friction then it will take a lot more friction to start a fire in a damp environment.

During freezing weather conditions the surrounding cold air quickly saps the heat out of your sparks, or from the friction you are trying to create to start a fire. It is extremely difficult during freezing weather to get a fire started using any primitive fire starting method. If you have some really good very dry tinder that you have warmed using your natural body heat then you will increase your chances of getting a fire started, but the odds will still be weighted heavily against you.

In addition, during rainy weather and freezing weather it is very easy to quickly become depressed, irritable, and fearful. Primitive fire starting methods are even more difficult to properly execute during these times of emotional stress.

Finally, during adverse weather conditions the sun will not be visible so any fire starting method based on focusing the sun's energy will simply not work.

You will not read about the above shortcomings in any survival manual that teaches and recommends primitive fire starting methods. But the above problems are real and therefore I cannot personally recommend any primitive technique as a primary method for starting a fire.

Besides, during a wilderness survival adventure or a "hard times event" you really don't need to be investing your time and energy in trying to start a fire. You will already have enough stress and pressure in your life from a multitude of other sources. You will also have far more important things you could be doing instead of trying to start a fire using a primitive method.

For all of the above reasons I prefer any modern fire starting method instead of any primitive method.

If I were limited to a single fire starting method then I would select a New Butane Lighter. New butane lighters can be purchased almost anywhere for one-dollar each or less. A new small butane lighter will light about 1,000 fires, or one fire a day for about three years. A new standard size butane lighter will light about 2,000 fires, or one fire a day for approximately 5.5 years. A new high-capacity butane lighter will light about 4,000 fires, or one fire per day for approximately 11 years.

Matches are also nice but each match is only good for one fire, unless you know how to carefully split the match to get two or more fires from a single match. Also if your matches accidentally get damp then they may or may not work after you dry them out. There are a variety of different types of matches including Strike Anywhere Kitchen Wooden Matches, Standard Kitchen Wooden Matches, and Paper Matches inside a match book (20 matches per book). If you do not have the strike anywhere matches then be sure to include the striking strip off the box in your "necessities bag" but wrap it separately inside something waterproof so it cannot accidentally come into contact with the match heads.

A Blast Match is a spark making tool but it requires some really good tinder, such as clothes dryer lint. Extremely dry decayed wood is also very good tinder. The tiny sparks the blast match creates will start any easily ignitable material burning. However, unless you have some really good tinder that is extremely flammable then the tiny sparks will go out before igniting the tinder. Therefore, I prefer a Magnesium Fire Starter instead of a blast match.

A Magnesium Fire Starter requires that you shave a little magnesium off the magnesium block and then strike the attached flint with the blunt edge of your knife to throw some sparks onto the very thin magnesium shavings. The shavings will quickly catch fire and burn extremely well. This is a very reliable way to start a fire and it should work well if both your matches and your butane lighters should fail for some unexpected reason. (Note 1: If all the available tinder is damp or frozen then you could place a few shavings off the magnesium block below some damp tinder, and then ignite the magnesium shavings with a match to get the tinder burning, and then you could gradually build a normal fire.) (Note 2: There is enough magnesium on the block to reliably start somewhere between 75 to 125 good fires. However, even after you have used all the magnesium, the spark making flint will still be intact and it can be used to start additional fires if you have some really good tinder material.)

In summary, I recommend that a person have two good butane lighters manufactured by two different companies, and some strike anywhere matches in a waterproof container, and a magnesium fire starter. These items are all very small and they do not weigh very much. But with this combination of items you could start a fire under almost any type of adverse weather condition.

The reason I recommend matches and a butane lighter is simple. During freezing weather the striking wheel on a butane lighter can freeze and render the lighter useless for starting a fire. In that situation the matches usually work just fine. However, during really damp humid weather it is possible that the matches may get a little damp and be difficult to strike. In that situation the butane lighter works just fine. If you have a different backup method for starting a fire then you will have a much better chance of starting a fire under a variety of adverse weather conditions.

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A Compass

A compass is useful on overcast days, on rainy days, and at night. It will help to keep you from traveling in the wrong direction so you don't waste time and precious energy needlessly. Regardless of where you are, if you can travel consistently in one direction you should eventually reach a road that you can follow. However, without a compass the chances of your traveling in a straight line are greatly reduced.

The "Coghlan's Six Function Whistle Compass" shown in the picture on the right can be purchased at some Army Navy Surplus Stores for approximately ten dollars. It contains all of the following items:

1. Compass on front (see bottom of green package - direction finding).
2. Thermometer on back (see top of green package - weather changes).
3. Small Mirror in center (partially extending right side of compass - light signaling and face/eye inspection).
4. Magnifying Glass in center (partially extending left side of compass).
5. Whistle on bottom (noise signaling for help).
6. LED Flashlight on top (see top of green package - emergency light).

A variety of other ways to determine direction in addition to a compass are discussed on the following web page: http://www.grandpappy.info/wcompass.htm.

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Conclusion

If you have the above three items and you know how to use them, then your chances of survival in the wilderness will be very good. However, if you need some additional practical guidance in the use of these items, then I recommend that you include the following small book ($ in your "possibilities bag":

SAS Survival Guide by John "Lofty" Wiseman (ISBN 978-0060849825).

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Revision History:
October 27, 2008 - Added life expectancy of the Magnesium Fire Starting Unit.
May 7, 2008 - Added links to two Moccasin web sites.
April 19, 2008 - Added Meat Jerky link, and Brain Tanning a Deer Skin link to the practical uses for a steel knife.
April 9, 2008 - Created this new web page.

Click on www.grandpappy.info/indexwil.htm for more Wilderness Survival Tips.

Click on www.grandpappy.info for Robert's Home Page.

Send e-mail to RobertWayneAtkins@grandpappy.info

http://www.grandpappy.info/wthree.htm

The Top 50 Survival Blogs!

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SHTF Plan

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

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by AirborneSapper7

BISQUE OF LOBSTER - Remove the meat of the lobster from its shell and cut the tender pieces into quarter-inch dice; put the ends of the claw-meat and any tough portions in a saucepan with the bones of the body and a little cold water and boil for twenty minutes, adding a little water from time to time as may be necessary; put the coral to dry in a moderate oven, and mix a little flour with some cold milk, and stir the milk, which should be boiling, stirring over the fire for ten minutes, then strain the water from the bones and other parts, mix it with milk, add a little butter, salt, pepper and cayenne to taste, and rub the dry coral through a fine-haired sieve, putting enough into the soup having it a bright pink color. Place the grease fat and lobster dice in a soup tureen, strain the boiling soup over them, and serve at once.

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Noticed this post while searching for soup tureen. Does anyone have a preferred brand or type usable for holding enough to feed at least 8 people?

Dutch Oven Cooking - Series Introduction

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKQQK...eature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKQQK...eature=related

Apr 27, 2010

Today Justin Telford shows us a range of Dutch Oven cooking equipment, this will be the first in a series of videos about cooking, caring & using dutch ovens.

http://www.survival-center.com/images/sguide.gif

Chapter 3: Preparing Your Basic Survival Stash

• Food Storage
• Water Storage and Purification
• Survival Shelters

If you've given any thought to survival, you know the big three -- food, water and shelter -- are the foundation of any long-term survival plan. If you prepare to provide these three items for yourself and loved ones, you're farther ahead than probably 90 percent of the public.
Many would say water is the most important of the three, but we'll address them in the order above: Food, water and shelter.
Food Storage
You may be able to survive a few weeks or even a month without food, but why would you want to? Without food, you will become weak, susceptible to illnesses, dizzy and unable to perform survival-related tasks. Sure, water may be more critical to short-term survival, but it's much easier for even the unskilled survivalist to find water in the wild (the safety and purity of the water is another story, but we'll tackle that next).
This section will deal with several key areas:

• How much food do you need?
  
  • Why so much food?
  • Using and storing traditional, commercial foods
• Rotating foods
  
  • Baking items
• Special "survivalist" foods
• Home-made survival foods
• Hunting and gathering in the wild

How Much Food do you Need?
Here's the short answer: You can never have too much food stored away for hard times.
How much is the minimum for you and your potential survival situation is an answer you'll have to come up with after reviewing the table you developed in Chapter 1. (You did do that exercise, didn't you?)
Will three days of food be enough, as many suggest? Or do you need a year's worth? Captain Dave can't tell you what's best in your situation, but he suggests that two weeks or more is the minimum for anyone in any potential survival situation. One to three months? Now you're talking. A year? Let's hope you never need it. A year may be excessive for most, but hey, better safe than sorry (have you heard that one before?) If you're wondering how you can afford a month's worth of food, see Chapter 7.
Why should you stock up on so much food if the worst you're planning to prepare for is a heavy winter storm? Several reasons:

• It may take a while for store shelves to be replenished. Think back to the heavy storms that hit the East Coast in the winter of 1995-96. 30 inches in cities such as Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia shut the city down for more than a week. And the trucks carrying supplies were stranded on the side of an interstate highway somewhere in the midwest.
• You may be asked to feed friends or neighbors. Think how you'd feel if on the sixth day of the storm you and your family were enjoying a delicious, rich, beef stew while poor old Mrs. Frugal next door was down to a used tea bag and the bread crusts she usually gives the birds? Or what if friends were visiting for the weekend and unable to return home because of the inclement weather, earthquake or other emergency?
• Food rarely goes down in price. What you buy now will be an investment in the future. If you shop carefully over time (see Chapter 7) , you can lay in stores of goods on sale or at warehouse club prices.
• You will be protected from price gouging. Do you really think the last load of milk and bread into the store before the storm hits will be discounted? Shelves are often cleared out right before a blizzard or hurricane is set to hit. And food isn't the only item likely to be in short supply; one grocery chain reported that when storm warnings went out, they sold more rolls of toilet paper than there were people in the city. Batteries, bottled water, candles and other staples are also going to be in short supply (see the next chapter for more on non-food survival items).
• You will be prepared for a crippling blow to our food supply system. As I write this, many are predicting our food supply is tottering on its last legs. Whether its a drought (like we saw in 1996 in Texas and Oklahoma), a wheat blight, the destruction of traditional honey bees necessary for crop fertilization or simply the world's exploding population, they will tell you our food system is falling apart. Captain Dave will let you make up your own mind, but wouldn't a few hundred pounds of red winter wheat and other grains sealed in 5 gallon buckets make you feel better?

Let's say you decide to start small and plan to stock up a week's worth of food for your family. While the "survivalist" foods such as MRE's are a great supplement, you should be able to get by for this short a time (a week or two) on the traditional, commercial foods in your larder.
This existing food reserve should not include food in your refrigerator or freezer because you cannot count on those items remaining edible for more than a day (fridge) or three (freezer), at most. So half a cow or deer in the freezer is great, but you may have to cook, smoke and/or can it on short notice, should the power be out for a long time.
A quick examination of your cupboards and cabinets will tell you how much you need to add to ensure you have enough food for a week. If you have a few packages of pasta, some cans of vegetables, a box of crackers and a jar of peanut butter, you're halfway there. But if you have a habit of dropping by the deli every time you're hungry, or shopping for the evening meal on your way home from work (as many single, urban dwellers do), you'll need to change your habits and stock up.
A detailed list of suggestions and food storage information is available in the Food Storage FAQ but you should generally buy canned (including items in jars) or dried foods. Review our list of commercial food items and their suggested storage times when making up your personal list but keep in mind your family's eating habits, likes and dislikes. Also, remember that you may not have access to a microwave and other modern conveniences, so pick food items and packaging that can be prepared on a single burner of a camp stove or even over an open fire.
Rotation Systems
The main difference between the commercially prepared foods you buy in the grocery store and the specially prepared "survival" foods is the shelf storage. You can't store grocery store items for five to ten years, as you can with specially freeze-dried or sealed foods packed in nitrogen or vacuum sealed. As a result, if you go with a larder full of grocery items, you can't develop your food stash and walk away. You need to rotate your stock, either on an ongoing basis or every two to three months. This will ensure you have fresh food (if you can consider canned and dry food "fresh") and do not waste your food and money.
There are many systems for rotating your stock:

• Captain Dave finds the easiest is to put newly purchase foods at the rear of the shelf, thus ensuring the oldest food, which will have made it's way to the front, will be consumed first.
• You can also number food packages with consecutive numbers (a "one" the first time you bring home spaghetti sauce, a "two" the next, etc.) and eat those with the lowest number first.
• If you store your survival stash in a special location, you'll need to physically remove and replace 20 to 25 percent of it every two months (thus ensuring nothing sits for more than eight or 10 months). The materials you remove should be placed in your kitchen for immediate consumption.

As a general rule, traditional canned foods should be consumed within a year. For cans with expiration dates, such as Campbell's soups, you may find you have 18 months or two years before they expire. But for cans without a date, or with a code that consumers can't translate, mark them with the date purchased and make sure you eat them before a year passes.
Generally, canned foods will not "go bad" over time, unless the can is punctured. But the food will loose its taste, the texture will deteriorate, and the nutritional value drops significantly over time.
If you find you have a case of canned peas, for example, that are nine or 10 months old, simply donate the to a soup kitchen, Boy Scout food drive or similar charity. This will keep them from being wasted and give you a tax deductible donation.
Baking
Simple raw materials for baking, such as flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, oil and shortening, can be assets in a survival situation. With these staple items, you can make everything from pancakes or rolls to breading fresh fish.
For those looking for a simpler answer, mixes for muffins, corn bread and pancakes mean you do not need to add eggs or measure ingredients. These ready-made or pre-mixed ingredients can be a boon. Of course, you may need a Dutch oven or griddle for that stove or fireplace.
For long-term survival storage, honey stores for years and can replace sugar in recipes. Rather than storing flour or meal, purchase the raw grain and a hand mill. Then you can mill your own flour whenever necessary. Red winter wheat, golden wheat, corn and other grains can be purchased in 45-pound lots packed in nitrogen-packed bags and shipped in large plastic pails.
Survival Foods
Storing two to four weeks of "commercial" food isn't too difficult. But when you get beyond that, you really need to look at specialized foods prepared specifically for long-term storage. These generally fall into several categories:

• Vacuum-packed dried and freeze-dried foods
• Nitrogen packed grains and legumes
• Specially prepared and sealed foods such as MRE's (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) with a five-to-ten year shelf life

All offer one main advantage: long storage life. Some, such as MRE's and packages sold to backpackers, are complete meals. This is handy and convenient, but they tend to be expensive on a per-meal basis. Others, such as #10 cans (about a gallon) of dried items, are usually ingredients which can be used to prepare a full meal. These ingredients include everything from macaroni elbows or carrot slices to powdered milk or butter flavor. Your best bet is a combination of both full-meal entrees and bulk items.
As the name implies, MRE's are ideal for a quick, nutritious, easy-to-prepare meal. They are convenient to carry in the car, on a trip or on a hike. They have very long shelf lives (which can be extended by placing a case or two in your spare refrigerator). On the downside, they are very expensive on a per-meal basis and they do not provide as much roughage as you need. (This can lead to digestive problems if you plan to live on them for more than a week or two.)
Large canned goods, on the other hand, are difficult to transport. But if you're stocking up your survival retreat (see chapter 2) or planning to batten down the hatches and stay at home, the large canned goods are easy to store and can keep you well-fed for months. While individual cans can be purchased, most popular are sets of multiple items. These are designed to provide a specific number of calories per day (they'll recommend 1,800 per day, but you'll probably want more) for a set period of time, often three months, six months or a year. Remember, however, if you have four people in your family or survival group, purchasing a one-year supply of food will only equate to three months worth for the family.
Captain Dave recommends purchasing the largest set of these canned, dried foods your budget can handle. Then supplement the set with items tailored to you and your family or survival group. Also, MREs and MRE entrees are excellent supplements, because prepared sets of #10 cans are primarily vegetables, pasta and grains, while MRE entrees are usually meat-based.
You may also want to add a few special items, such as hard candy or deserts, to reward yourself or for quick energy. That's one area where MREs and MRE deserts can be a great supplemental item. It's pretty tough to store pound cake or brownies for several years, but the MRE makers have managed it. They also offer crackers and peanut butter, bread and some great side dishes.
While we're on the topic of supplements, don't forget to add vitamins and mineral supplements. Fruits, green vegetables and other items rich in vitamin C and other nutrients may be scarce, so a good multi-vitamin is well worth the space it takes up in your stash.
NOTE: Since the guide was written, Captain Dave has started selling long-term survival foods and other related supplies. If you are interested, please visit our Survival Shop.
Home Made Survival Foods
There's nothing like a cellar full of canned goods you grew and put up. From spaghetti sauce to your own jam, canning goods is a tradition that will come in mighty handy in a survival situation.
But Captain Dave doesn't pretend to be an expert. Whenever you're dealing with canning fruits, vegetables or meats, its important to follow the latest specifics from the true experts. (OK, so maybe government isn't all bad.) See our list of links for canners and others looking to preserve food.
You can also dry, vacuum-pack and otherwise prepare food for storage. Vacuum pumps are available commercially or can be constructed in your own home. You can use them to seal dried food in mason jars and other containers.
When packing foods for storage, you want to eliminate oxygen (which is why a vacuum is so good). Bugs, such as weevils, and other organisms that can destroy your food need the oxygen to live, just as we do. That's why commercial companies who prepare survival food pack grains, cereals, pasta, beans and other food in nitrogen-filled containers. You can accomplish a similar packaging yourself by using dried ice.
Simply take the 10 pounds of noodles (or 25 pounds of rice or other dried food) you picked up from the warehouse and put them in an appropriately sized plastic bucket with a lid that can create a good seal. The add several chunks of dried ice. As it sublimates, your bucket will fill with carbon dioxide, which will displace all or most of the oxygen (since carbon dioxide is heavier, the oxygen should rise to the top and out of the bucket). Place the lid on the bucket, but don't seal it all the way until you think the dry ice has completely turned to gas. This is a fine line, since you want to seal it before oxygen starts leaking back into the bucket. Remember, as soon as you open the bucket, whoosh! the air will rush back in.
Hunting and Gathering in the Wild
Image this scenario:

A small nuclear conflict erupts in the Middle East destroying several countries and much of the world's oil supply. Airbursts knock out more than half of the world's satellite communications systems. Due to favorable weather conditions and plain dumb luck, fall-out over the United States is not life threatening -- as it is in part of Europe, Japan and the Far East -- and the EMP damage to our electronic systems is minimal. However life as we know it is disrupted as fuel prices reach $10 and then $20 per gallon.
Fruits and vegetables grown in Florida and California can't reach markets in other states. Corn and wheat crops are abundant, but farmers don't have the fuel to run harvesters. And those that do, fill their silos, but the grain can't reach the market. Store shelves are emptied in two days of panicked buying that sees a five-pound bag of flour go from $1.69 to $8.99.
The economy goes into a tailspin, and inflation reaches 300 percent in the first two weeks. You're lucky you still have a job, but you wonder how on earth you'll get there without the car.
The president tries to regain control of the country, by releasing stocks of food and oil, but it's just a drop in the bucket. In a measure of how bad things have become, he declares marshal law and nationalizes all oil, refineries and oil reserves. Suddenly, Uncle Sam is the only gas station on the block, and they're not pumping for anybody, no matter how much silver you cross their palms with. Riots break out in seventeen major cities and the national guard has to be called out. LA burns (again) as does Philadelphia. There's a national curfew and trouble makers are hauled off to camps. 60 Minutes runs a story on these concentration camps, which nobody ever admitted were in existence, but they experience technical difficulties and the broadcast is cut off in the middle of the story. FEMA becomes a four letter word. Suddenly, the two weeks of food in your larder looks frighteningly small. You wish you had more room on your credit card, but then, smart merchants are only accepting cash. You can't wait for the few tomato plants and cucumbers you have growing in the back yard to bear. But you know it won't be enough. Winter is coming, and the papers say the utilities can't guarantee there will be enough gas or electric to heat peoples' homes.

Maybe it's time to look to nature to help feed you. That's great if you are a farmer or have five or more acres of tillable land. But if not, or if it's too late to plant crops, that means a return to hunting, trapping and gathering.
If you can identify wild plants that can supplement your existing diet, good for you. If not, better go out and buy a few guide books right away. Get ones with pictures, you'll need them. Just hope everyone else doesn't have the same idea, or berry bushes and apple trees will be stripped clean in seconds.
Captain Dave has eaten all sorts of wild plants, from salad greens he probably would have tromped over on any other day to wild mushrooms to the heads of milkweeds (properly prepared, of course). Its not his first choice, but its better than tightening the belt.
Captain Dave supports hunting as a great American past time, an important tool in game management and a terrific source to supplement your traditional menu during these good times. But will it be enough to put food on the table during a survival situation? Don't count on it.
If you're a hunter, you know how crowded it usually is on opening day. Could you imagine what the local patch of forest would be like if everyone's dinner depended on hunting? How quickly would we strip this continent of all edible game? Planning on fishing? So are all your neighbors.
There are some areas of the country where the ratio of people to wildlife will still support sustenance hunting. But for most of us, that's not the case. You may be able to supplement your food supply with some game, but don't count on it.
What does Captain Dave recommend you do if the above scenario comes to play?

• At the first hint of trouble and rising prices, visit the local food warehouse and grocery stores and buy as much as you can afford. Get the 50 pound bags of rice and the 25 pound bags of flour. Use your credit cards and part of your emergency cash stash, if necessary.
• Hunker down at home and protect what is yours.
• Keep a low profile and avoid contact with others, except fellow members of your survival group. Avoid trouble and confrontations.
• Hope that within six months the country will have recovered or at least stabilized. If not, the population will probably be a lot smaller when winter is over.

Food Storage and Preservation Links
Food Storage FAQ
This tome is a complete guide to storing food for survival needs. It is much more in depth than the above information. Available in both html for on-screen viewing or as a downloadable file.
Rec.Food.Preserving and Rec.Food.Preserving FAQ
The place to ask questions and learn more about home-preserved foods. According to their charter: Rec.food.preserving is a newsgroup devoted to the discussion of recipes, equipment, and techniques of food preservation. Current food preservation techniques that rightly should be discussed in this forum include canning, freezing, dehydration, pickling, smoking, salting, distilling, and potting. Foodstuffs are defined as produce (both fruits and vegetables), meat, fish, dairy products, culinary and medicinal herbs. Discussions should be limited to home-grown or home-preserved foods.
Here are a few more. The site's name generally says it all:
Home Canning Tips
Captain Dave's Survival Shop
Grain Supply Update... By Geri Guidetti Walton Feed's Self Reliance Pages

http://www.survival-center.com/guide/food.htm

I enjoyed reading the headache post AirborneSapper7.

Psalm 91

Chapter 2: Bug out or Batten Down?

• Should you Stay or Go?
• The Evacuation Plan
• Where to Go
  
  • The Ultimate Survival Retreat
  • Caching Goods
• How to Get There
  
  • Route Planning
  • What to Bring With You

Should you Stay or Go?
Based on the previous section, you should have a good idea of the potential survival situations you might be facing. Now the question is whether to stay and face them or move to another -- hopefully safer -- location.
We all have a strong desire to protect what's ours. Regardless of whether you own the largest house in the neighborhood or rent a ramshackle shack, home is where the heart is, not to mention all the rest of your stuff! And Captain Dave knows you've worked long and hard to accumulate that stuff, so abandoning it and running for safety may stick in your craw.
Thankfully, there are times when saying at home makes the most sense. If you can wait out the storm, ignore the heavy snow, batten down the hatches against civil unrest or otherwise stay at home during an emergency situation without endangering yourself, it may be your best bet. There are many advantages to staying home in a survival situation, if you can safely do so:

• The food in your refrigerator and pantry can supplement your survival stash (see the next chapter).
• If you loose power, you can quickly cook much of your food and monitor the temperature of your freezer (frozen food will usually keep at least 24 hours).
• You'll have more time to improve your home's chances of survival (move items to high ground, put plywood over windows, etc.)
• It offers shelter against most elements.
• You'll have access to all your clothing, bedding and other comforts.
• You won't suffer from boredom as much as you might in a shelter.
• You can protect your stuff from looters.

Of course, there's a downside as well:

• You could be putting yourself in unnecessary, life-threatening danger. (The fire, flood, hurricane, riot, etc. might be worse than anticipated. We've all seen TV coverage of people clinging to their roofs as the house washes down stream.)
• If you decided to evacuate later, it may be too late.
• Without heat, electricity, hot water or other services, home just isn't the same.
• There is no sense of community, unless other neighbors or members of your local survival group stay home, too. You may feel cut off and alone.
• If a mandatory evacuation has been ordered, you may be prosecuted by local authorities (although this rarely happens).

No matter how much you wish to stay at home, there are times when evacuation is the only choice. These include a nuclear, chemical or biological event as well as any impending disaster that is likely to destroy your home. For example:

• If the warning sirens on that nearby chemical plant go off at 3 a.m., you have no choice but to don your gas masks, grab your bug out bag and drive the opposite direction as quickly as possible.
  
• If you're beach-front home is directly in the path of a Force 3 hurricane, staying put might show a surplus of guts, but deficit of brains.
  
• Likewise the time you spend, garden hose in hand, trying to fend off a raging fire that has already burnt out six neighbors might be better spent salvaging your valuables and items with sentimental value.

So, if the survival situations you outlined in the previous section shows several emergency situations requiring evacuation, you'll need to put together a plan:
The Evacuation Plan
There are several important elements to your evacuation plan:

• Where to go
• How to get there
• What to bring with you

Where to Go

Sure, you can head to the nearest shelter, but if sitting on cots at the local high school gymnasium or National Guard Armory was your first choice, you probably wouldn't be reading this.
You need a safe house or survival retreat in a location where the current crisis will not threaten you. The easiest way to set up a safe house is to coordinate with a friend or family member located between 100 and 150 miles away, preferably in a different setting. For example:

• If you're in the inner city, they should be in a rural area or at least a smaller town, preferably not the suburbs of your city
• If you're near the coast, they should be inland
• If you're near a flood plain, the safe house should be on higher ground.

Following these guidelines, you can be relatively sure of several things:

• Whatever disaster you are facing should not affect them, and vice versa. This allows you to trade off, so when they are facing a survival situation, your home can be their safe house.
• You'll be running towards something, not just away from danger.
• You can get there on one tank of gas, even if there is a great deal of traffic (During the Hurricane Opal evacuation in 1995, it was not unusual for a 100 mile trip on the interstate to take four hours).
• You won't be turned away at the inn (Hotel rooms are quickly filled, and often at inflated prices).

If you plan in advance, you can leave a few changes of old clothes, a toiletries kit, necessary prescription drugs, ammunition, some MREs or anything else you might need at the safe house. This will make your evacuation easier.

While many will find that a friend or relative's house is the easiest and most cost-effective safe house, the ultimate safe house or survival retreat would be a second residence located in a very rural location. During normal times, this survival retreat can double as your vacation home, hunting lodge or weekend getaway destination. But when the flag goes up, you can evacuate to a safe house fully stocked with everything you need for self sufficiency.
Captain Dave's ultimate survival retreat would be:

• Well off the beaten track, ideally reachable by a single dirt road. This seclusion will offer you a good bit of protection. For example, you can cut a large tree down across the road to help eliminate unwanted guests.
• Not too ostentatious, so that it doesn't draw a lot of talk from locals and become a target for vandalism. Nothing wrong with a solid one-room cabin with a sleeping loft.
• Near a spring, well, stream or other natural source of water.
• Equipped with at least one fireplace or wood stove for cooking and heat.
• Within 10 to 20 miles of a village or small town where you can go (by foot, if necessary) for additional supplies, news and other contact with the outside world, should the emergency stretch into months or longer.
• Have enough arable land for growing your own vegetables and other crops.
• Near a natural, easily harvestable food source (usually wildlife for hunting or fishing).
• Provisioned with enough food to keep your family safe for at least three months, preferably a year.
• Provisioned with tools necessary for long-term self sufficiency, should it become necessary.
• Stocked with enough weapons and ammunition to defend it from small groups of marauding invaders, should it come to that.

If you are worried about caching goods in a unattended house, where they could be stolen, you can cache a supply nearby. While most caches are buried in hidden locations, a simple solution to this dilemma is to rent a commercial storage unit in a town close to your retreat. This has several advantages:

• As long as you have access to the facility 24 hours a day (one of those outside storage areas where you use your own lock is best) you can get to your supplies when necessary.
• It will be much easier to make a few trips to and from the nearby storage facility and your safe house than carry everything with you from home.
• It's easier to check on the status and add materials to this type of cache than one buried in a secluded location.
• In a worst case scenario, you can hoof it to the storage area, spend the night inside and hike back the next day with a full backpack.

Of course, for the ultimate protection, a buried or other hidden cache is hard to beat. The is especially true for the long-term storage of ammunition and weapons that are or may one day be considered illegal. Here are some specifics on establishing this type of a cache.

How to Get to Your Safe House
Whichever option you've chosen for your safe house, the best way to get there is by car. It's convenient (most of us have them), offers some protection, is relatively fast and allows us to carry much more gear than on foot or bicycle.
Of course, there's nothing wrong with taking a train to a safe house in a nearby city. Captain Dave is partial to boats, and even a bus beats walking, but for most, the car is our escape vehicle of choice.
While everyone chooses a car that fits their lifestyle and budget, a large four-wheel drive vehicle is the best bet for evacuating to your safe house. The bigger, heavier the vehicle is, the better. Not only do larger vehicles have greater ground clearance and the ability to ford higher waterways, they offer the most protection and carry the most gear. They also offer you and your passengers better protection in a fender-bender. When the entire city seems to be running from an impending disaster, you don't want to be stuck on the side of the road because of minor accident.
Four-wheel drive is critical if you need to go off-road to avoid accidents, road blocks or other evacuation-related snafus.
So, since an army surplus army truck is probably out of the question, a large four-wheel drive pick-up with a cap may be the best bug out vehicle available. But the fact is, whatever vehicle (or vehicles) you have at hand is the best bet.
And the old saw about never letting your car's gas tank get below half makes a lot of sense. Captain Dave also recommends keeping a couple of five gallon tanks of gas on hand "for emergencies." Even if you use it to fill your tank, carry it with you (strapped to the roof, perhaps) because you never know when you might find more. If you are very serious, you can have a second tank installed in your truck. And while we're on the subject of cars, make sure your is is good mechanical condition.

continued Below

Taking the High Road
One of the most critical factors is route planning. You should have memorized several routes to your safe house or survival retreat and have maps on hand so you can identify alternate routes around accidents or other problem areas. The routes should include:
The fastest, most direct route.
This will be your first choice when you are getting out early, before the crowds. If you're smart enough to beat the rush, predict an upcoming disruption, or just feel like being far away from any federal buildings on every April 19, you can take your main route. A back road route.
This may be your best bet when the interstates are clogged with lines of cars all trying to leave "ground zero." Sure, it would normally take longer, but it in this situation, it may be your best bet.
An indirect route.
There may be a time when you need to get away, but don't want anyone to know where you're going. There may come a day when it make sense to go north 200 miles out of your way to end up 150 miles east of your destination. This is also the route to choose if you have reason to believe you may be followed. What to Bring With You
http://www.alipac.us/images/bugotbag.gif Captain Dave keeps a bug-out bag in the closet. A bug-out bag is the first -- and possibly only -- thing you grab when you're bailing out. When the fire alarm is going off, for example, grab the kids, the bug-out bags and get out.
Bags, you say? Yes, bags. Each member of the family should have his or her own bug out bag.
What should you include in your bug-out bag? Ask 100 people, and you'll get 100 answers, but here's what Captain Dave suggests:

Must Haves	Nice to Have
At least $500 in cash, including plenty of small bills for incidentals and change for phone calls. (When the power is out, many stores can't use their cash registers and insist on either exact change or to the closest dollar.)	Traveler checks. Gold or silver coins. Dimes, quarters and half-dollars minted before 1965 contain 90 percent silver. A gold Maple Leaf or other large coin may be too big for day-to-day transactions, but smaller gold coins are available.
Spare or duplicate credit cards with plenty of credit available.	A bank card for local and national ATMs. (This assumes the electricity is not out.)
A few spare checks and anything that could be used for ID if you do not have your wallet with you.	A duplicate drivers license.
A spare set of keys, including car, house, safe-house/survival retreat, storage facility, safe deposit box, etc.	You can stash a spare set in your vehicle for emergencies.
A change of clothes, preferably durable heavy-weight clothes that can stand up to abuse.	A season-appropriate jacket and other outer gear, such as gloves and hat. Clothes suitable for layering (T-shirt, flannel shirt, etc.).
A pair of old, comfortable, already-broken-in shoes that still have some good miles left in them.	A couple pairs of extra socks and at least one change of underwear.
At least a quart of water per person.	Juice boxes or pouches.
A few MREs or other easily transportable food items, including some quick snack foods.
Prescription or over-the-counter drugs you rely on.	Unfilled prescriptions you can take to a pharmacy anywhere to be filled.
A spare pare of eyeglasses (perhaps your old prescription) and/or contacts and solutions.	A duplicate of your standard opthamalic eye-wear and/or a few pairs of daily or extended-wear contacts.
A basic first aid kit, including bandages, an ace-type bandage, aspirin or other analgesic, first-aid cream, alcohol pads, etc.	A more advanced first aid kit, including sutures, antibiotics, pain killers, etc.
A phone book listing all important numbers, including friends, family, neighbors, work, school, doctor, insurance, etc.	A cellular phone and/or CB radio.
A good work knife and/or Swiss army-type knife.	A Leatherman survival tool.
For those so inclined, a basic pistol, such as a revolver chambered for .357 or .38 special, and at least 50 rounds of ammunition.	Loaded speedloaders or magazines and a comfortable belt and holster.

Now that you know where to go, how to get there and what to bring when you leave in a hurry, you can take a look at long-term survival planning. The next chapter covers the three basics of any survival plan: Water, food and shelter.

http://www.survival-center.com/guide/bugout.htm

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http://readynutrition.com/resources/

Thankyou for keeping this going Airborne! I have at least 90% of this covered. My only thing that will be a get on a need be basis will be meat products. Mainly because I consume mostly game that I get on the property. It is better than hunting at the grocery store, as I don't get any meats that have chemicals, and antibiotics and growth hormones in them.

But you can only take so much. Otherwise it will eventually spoil. So I only get what I will use, and then get more when my stocks run low.

Edible Weeds

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ern6v...eature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ern6vW1F5Lg&feature=related

Try out WebM Video for Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 (Beta).
on Apr 28, 2008

Why apply chemicals to remove your weeds, when you can harvest them to eat! We wander through a backyard to assemble a salad with a plant expert

bttt

Study: Baked Rhubarb May Help Fight Cancer

February 19, 2010 by Personal Liberty News Desk

http://pictures.directnews.co.uk/liv...031627_300.jpg

For those interested in eating rhubarb for its comprehensive health benefits, cooking the vegetable in the oven may be the ideal way to prepare it. Researchers from Sheffield Hallam University and the Scottish Crop Research Institute have found that baking garden rhubarb for 20 minutes can dramatically increase its levels of anti-cancer chemicals.

Using liquid chromatography analysis, the researchers identified 40 polyphenols in raw rhubarb. These chemicals, which include anthraquinone, stilbene and flavonol derivatives, have been shown to selectively kill or prevent the growth of some cancer cells.

Compared to eating the raw vegetable, baking significantly increased total rhubarb polyphenol content, bringing out the highest antioxidant capacity. However, there was a dramatic decrease in the beneficial chemicals with extended cooking time.
"Our research has shown that British rhubarb is a potential source of pharmacological agents that may be used to develop new anti-cancerous drugs," concluded Nikki Jordan-Mahy from Sheffield Hallam University’s Biomedical Research Center.

Scientists are now looking to use the findings to study the effect of rhubarb’s polyphenols on leukemia, including those strains that have been proven to be resistant to treatment.
http://feeds.directnews.co.uk/feedtr...temid=19617090

http://www.personalliberty.com/news/...ncer-19617090/

Cool, I have a couple patches on the back end of the property that grow wild. But I also have raspberrys, crabapples, and I think a possible pear tree on the proerty line. My Uncle and I planted 125 walnut seeds for English walnut, and Continental walnut trees in 25 locations on the property. I also have a neighbor who has blackwalnut trees and a bunch of sapplings every spring, so I traded some fish and venison, and rabbit for some sapplings in the spring. And these Blackwalnut trees are fast growers, with fairly sweet fruit.

Airborne, all you can do, is keep pluggin' away art it. One piece at a time, and the next thing you know, you're good to go.

Bushcraft Knots Tutorial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_-Cw...eature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_-CwJNEkcs&feature=related

Jun 10, 2011

A tutorial on knots that I use for bushcraft. I am not an expert really, I just use these knots a lot and this is my way of doing things.
Do not use these knots for climbing or any other dangerous activities!
Following knots are covered:
- Clove hitch with slipped overhand knot (mastwurf mit slipstek)
-Trucker's hitch (spanner mit slipstek)
-Tautline hitch (stopper stek)
-Bowline (palstek)
-Butterfly (schmetterlingsknoten)
-Sheet bend (schotstek)
-? [a knot similar to siberian hitch] (anbindeknoten)

"BASIC LIST OF SUGGESTED ITEMS FOR LONG TERM SURVIVAL"

I'm thinking a house on the beach in southern California is number one on my list.

Amazing Wilderness Camp Cot - Simple Raised Bed Bushcraft Shelter

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NYWd...eature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NYWd1NjjYs&feature=related

Oct 26, 2011

Learn how to build a simple raised bed bushcraft shelter. Add your own tube bed and tarp and you are ready for a comfortable night sleep in the wild. Please remember to remove your shelter when you leave and naturalize your campsite. Bonus! This design is simple to take down and remove.

First Bushcraft Night Out There -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nk7dM95_uaU

WoodenArrows Channel -
http://www.youtube.com/user/Woodenarrows

For more comfort in the wilderness ideas please visit us at -
http://www.canada-camps.ca

http://www.newsmaxhealth.com/images/img_logo.gif

Zen Meditation Fends Off Pain

Friday, February 26, 2010 7:49 AM

Zen meditation helps lower sensitivity to pain by thickening a part of the brain that regulates emotion and painful sensations, according a study.

University of Montreal researchers compared the grey matter thickness of 17 Zen meditators and 18 non-meditators and found evidence that practicing the centuries-old discipline can reinforce a central part of the brain called the anterior cingulate.

"Through training, Zen meditators appear to thicken certain areas of their cortex and this appears to underlie their lower sensitivity to pain," lead author Joshua Grant said in a statement.

Building on an earlier study, the researchers measured thermal pain sensitivity by applying a heated plate to the calf of participants.

This was followed by scanning the brains of subjects with structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

The MRI results showed central brain regions that regulate emotion and pain were significantly thicker in meditators compared to non-meditators.

"The often painful posture associated with Zen meditation may lead to thicker cortex and lower pain sensitivity," Grant opined.

The study was published in a special issue of the American Psychological Association journal, Emotion.

In the previous study, the researchers recruited Zen meditators with more than 1,000 hours of practice and non-meditators and measured their respective tolerance to pain.

Several of the meditators tolerated a maximum 53 degrees Celsius (128 degrees Fahrenheit) produced by a heating plate.

They appeared to further reduce their pain partly through slower breathing: 12 breaths per minute versus an average of 15 breaths for non-meditators.

"Slower breathing certainly coincided with reduced pain and may influence pain by keeping the body in a relaxed state," Grant said in the earlier study.

Ultimately, Zen meditators experience an 18 percent reduction in pain sensitivity, according to the original study.

During Zen meditation, the practitioner sits in a specific position and focuses attention on an area just below the navel, which relaxes the body and allows the user to get in touch with his deepest thoughts.

Copyright AFP

http://www.newsmaxhealth.com/headline_h ... ode=9812-1

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Are You Ready Series: The Prepared Pet

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
February 2010


Pets should not be overlooked when acquiring short and long term emergency supplies. Our furry and feathered friends make their ways into our hearts and become loyal parts of the family. Their well being is important and they will appreciate the supplies.
Plan for Pet Disaster Needs

• Identifying shelter. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out which motels and hotels in the area you plan to evacuate to allow pets — well in advance of needing them. There are also a number of guides that list hotels/motels that permit pets and could serve as a starting point. Include your local animal shelter’s number in your list of emergency numbers — they might be able to provide information concerning pets during a disaster.
• Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they’re not available later. While the sun is still shining, consider packing a “pet survival” kit which could be easily deployed if disaster hits.
• Make sure identification tags are up to date and securely fastened to your pet’s collar. If possible, attach the address and/or phone number of your evacuation site. If your pet gets lost, his tag is his ticket home. Make sure you have a current photo of your pet for identification purposes.
• Make sure you have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness for your pet so that if he panics, he can’t escape.
• Animals in Emergencies for Owners This video, developed by the Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) /FEMA, is intended to help pet and livestock owners prepare to protect their animals during emergencies.

Prepare to Shelter Your Pet

• Call your local emergency management office, animal shelter, or animal control office to get advice and information.
• If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Find out where pet boarding facilities are located. Be sure to research some outside your local area in case local facilities close.
• Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet’s medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current. Include copies in your “pet survival” kit along with a photo of your pet.
• NOTE: Some animal shelters will provide temporary foster care for owned pets in times of disaster, but this should be considered only as a last resort.
• If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger! Confine your pet to a safe area inside — NEVER leave your pet chained outside! Leave them loose inside your home with food and plenty of water. Remove the toilet tank lid, raise the seat and brace the bathroom door open so they can drink. Place a notice outside in a visible area, advising what pets are in the house and where they are located. Provide a phone number where you or a contact can be reached as well as the name and number of your vet.

During a Disaster

• Bring your pets inside immediately.
• Have newspapers on hand for sanitary purposes. Feed the animals moist or canned food so they will need less water to drink.
• Animals have instincts about severe weather changes and will often isolate themselves if they are afraid. Bringing them inside early can stop them from running away. Never leave a pet outside or tied up during a storm.
• Separate dogs and cats. Even if your dogs and cats normally get along, the anxiety of an emergency situation can cause pets to act irrationally. Keep small pets away from cats and dogs.
• In an emergency, you may have to take your birds with you. Talk with your veterinarian or local pet store about special food dispensers that regulate the amount of food a bird is given. Make sure that the bird is caged and the cage is covered by a thin cloth or sheet to provide security and filtered light.

After a Disaster

• If after a disaster you have to leave town, take your pets with you. Pets are unlikely to survive on their own.
• After a disaster, some pets become separated from their owners, having emergency information or emergency identification cards on each pet could help you find your pet faster.
• In the first few days after the disaster, leash your pets when they go outside. Always maintain close contact. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and your pet may become confused and lost. Also, snakes and other dangerous animals may be brought into the area with flood areas. Downed power lines are a hazard.
• The behavior of your pets may change after an emergency. Normally quiet and friendly pets may become aggressive or defensive. Watch animals closely. Leash dogs and place them in a fenced yard with access to shelter and water.

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...-pet_27022010/

Related Reading:

• Week 5 of 52: Pet Care
• Pet First Aid Kit
• Get Prepped Newsletter: May 27, 2011
• Home Remedies for Livestock
• Child Friendly Livestock
  
  
  

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10 Essential Skills Necessary for Survival

February 19th, 2010

Although it is important to be prepared for disaster situations, many are not adequately trained to handle the disaster situations in which they find themselves in. Having the proper skills and training will provide an individual with a well diversified knowledge base on how to survive during and after a disaster.
Medical Training
In a survival situation, medical training is going to be a big one. Due to the increase use of saws, axes and knives, there will be more medical emergencies involving deep lacerated cuts. Knowing how to properly clean wounds, stitch wounds, as well as knowing how to treat infected wounds will be extremely important. Additionally, there will be an increase in burns from being in closer contact to fires. Burns can get infected very quickly, and knowing how to decipher the degree of the burn is and how to treat it will be a concern amongst survivalists and preppers. Typically, there are online courses offered for basic CPR/First Aid, however, those basic skills will not give a person the fundamental training they need. Finding a local Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) class that is offered for paramedics and first responders to accidents will be a better knowledge source and better equip a person to handle emergency medical situations.
Disaster Training
Disaster training is typically offered by FEMA, the American Red Cross and other disaster organizations. A person who is equipped with knowledge on how to plan for a disaster, how to properly prepare for a disaster, and how to mental handle the after effects of a disaster will be able to better adapt to the situation more quickly compared to those that are not. The American Red Cross offers extensive courses in disaster safety and training as well as basic First Aid/CPR courses. There are also online courses offered through FEMA.
Gardening Skills
In a long term survival situation, seeds will mean the difference between life and death. The only problem is, many have lost the necessary skill of gardening because there is a grocery store on every corner of the streets these days. It’s time to get your hands dirty and get back in touch with nature. Learning necessary gardening skills such as companion plants, crop rotations, beneficial insects, natural ways to replenish soil, and knowledge on proper gardening tools will be beneficial. Another relevant knowledge source is understanding the medicinal value of plants and herbs. It is amazing how many uses there are for plants besides spicing up our cooked entrees. Researching natural medicines is another major need in a survival situation, especially if the person has a pre-existing condition.
http://www.thereadystore.com/affilia...a&bid=faac17f8
Firearm Certification and Training
There are dozens of firearm courses offered through the National Rifle Association. In a situation where a person needs to defend themselves, 99% of them would want a gun. I’m sure the Survival Mom would agree how beneficial these courses can be as a female and for teaching children. And, the more a person practices, the better their aim gets. This is one survival skill that a person should be as proficient as possible. Also, knowing gun safety and being able to educate others is essential when a firearm is around.
Canning and Food Preparation
Knowing how to can and preserve foods to eat during the long winter months is essential. Just think of all the delicious jarred goods a person can store up for when their food supply dwindles in the winter. The canning jars can be a bit of an investment. However, this author has found people selling their canned jars on www.craigslist.com, garage sales and even at second hand stores. Canning jars would also make an excellent bartering item.
Amateur Radio Classes
Having a radio is encouraged by many disaster relief organizations. And having knowledge on how to work and maneuver a HAMM radio will provide a person with an emergency communication source during a time when most communication is down. The National Association of Amateur Radio provides information based on a person’s location and course information on their website.
Sewing Classes
Typically if there is a fabric store, there are sewing classes and sewing events that are offered at the store. Everyone has heard of how their great grandmothers would sew quilts out of material from tethered or worn clothing. Not many of us have this skill anymore. Sewing classes will not only teach a necessary skill, but it will also get the survival mindset in place: make something new out of what you have available.
Outdoor Survival Skills Courses
Most preppers and survivalists are planning to “re-connect” with nature. Learning the necessary outdoor skills will provide a person with fundamental knowledge on how to better survive. The Boy Scouts offer adult classes as well as some community colleges. Get creative and search around the internet. There are some survival courses offered online (some offer free survival courses) that a person can learn from the comfort of their home. There are also wilderness courses offered at a variety of facilities such as local colleges, the YMCA, community park and recreation facilities, etc. Additionally, finding books, and e-books on survival skills is another way to find information on this topic.
Candle/Soap making Conventions
Soap and candle making are a lost art form in my opinion. Having a background knowledge of these skills would also be a great bartering skill. There are classes a person can take that are usually offered at homes as well as some conventions in certain areas. Searching on the internet would be a great start for finding these classes.
Hunting Skills
As many are planning to hunt wild game for a food source, they will need skills on how to gut the carcass, skin the fur and properly cut the meat. The “hunter-in-training” will also have to have a proficient knowledge on the different types of hunting tools used to prepare animal carcasses (and these tools come in different sizes based on the animal). The National Hunting Association is a portal that can take a person to their local area hunting association in order to get more information for their specific area. Also, this website offers the hunting guides for all of the states within the USA.

© 2010 – 2011, thesurvivalmom. All rights reserved.

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Essential Prepping Calculators

February 13th, 2010
Basic Survival Needs

Basic Survival Needs

Food Storage Calculator - How much food does a family need? This nifty calculator can let you know.
Water Intake Calculator - Find out how much water an individual needs based on their specific weight.

Cooking

Cooking Conversion Calculator - Converges different measurements for cooking.
Printable Version of Cooking Conversion Chart

Environmental

Carbon Foot Print Calculator

Gardening/Mirco Farm

Seed Calculator - Find out how many seeds will be needed for a given amount of land.
Plants Per Acre Calculator – Find out how many plants will be needed per acre.
Acres Into Square Feet Convergence Calculator - Acres into square feet conversion calculator for area conversions with additional tables and formulas.
Square Feet Into Acres Convergence Calculator - Square feet into acres conversion calculator.
Horse Feed Calculators - Find out how much hay your horse will need for a year.
Precious Metals

Precious Metal Calculator – Evaluates the current online price of all carat golds, silver, platinum, and palladium. Uses current online prices for a variety of currencies.

Radiation
Radiation Calculator – We are exposed to radiation on a daily basis. Find out what daily activities we do and items that we have in our homes that emit radiation.
Weapon and Ammunition Calculator

Winchester Ballistics Calculator
Remington Ballistics Calculator
Nuclear Weapons Effects Calculator
Nuclear Detonation in a City - Put in the longitude and latitude coordinates of a city and see what the effects of the weapon will be and how far the fall out will spread
Global Incident Map – Maps out terrorist and other suspicious activity


Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: February 13th, 2010
Related Categories: Prepping Calculators

Related Reading:

• What’s Your Annual Radiation Dose?
• First Time Shopping List For An Emergency Food Supply
• Week 29 of 52: Charity
• Gold Has Yet To Soar
• A Guide To Creating a No-Till Garden

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Are You Ready Series: Essential Footwear

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
November 2009

Surviving the harsh elements of nature is a hard thing to do. Surviving the harsh elements of nature without a good pair of shoes is next to impossible. Waterproof boots will protect your feet from the natural elements (water, heat, cold, snow, etc). Hiking boots are designed to give your feet the necessary support they need to help you move, stay aligned with your body, and protect you from weather elements.
Boots Are Made For Walkin’

Boots that have flexible soles and deep tread are the best type of shoes to have as far as walking/hiking in nature go. There is much debate on whether to purchase all leather boots that are fairly heavier or light weight hiking boots. Several studies have shown that wearing one extra pound on your feet takes as much energy as carrying five or six pounds in a backpack. Keep in mind of the terrain of the location you will be in to make the right decision of the type of footwear that should be purchased. There are many reviews of hiking boots to determine what is the best choice.
Worn out boots that have not been tended to can do an insurmountable amount of damage on the feet. In James Wesley, Rawles book The Patriot, the character Doug was wandering around in the harsh extremities of nature with worn down boots that were falling apart at the seams. After walking a very long journey, he made it back to his home and dug up a cache that he had buried way before the collapse of the country and found a spare pair of combat boots. In all of the items that were in the cache (coins, batteries, face paint, soap, vitamins, food, etc), he was most thankful for putting in a spare pair of boots.

Points to Find the Best Boots For You:

• Select boots that are designed to provide the support and protection you will need for the most difficult terrain you expect to encounter.
• Choose boots that are designed to support the load you expect to be carrying. The heavier your load, the more support you will need.
• Remember that hiking boots do not have to weigh a great deal.
• Consider the various advantages of fabric-and-leather boots and all-leather boots. Fabric-and-leather boots are lighter and easier to break in, but all-leather boots offer added protection and durability in rigorous terrain, as well as being water resistant and breathable.
• Top-quality hiking boots, are made with a Gore-Tex® lining that keeps water out while allowing perspiration to escape.

Source – www.llbean.com

R.E.I’s website has some further tips to think about when choosing the right pair of boots.
Take Care of Your Boots, and Your Boots Take Care of You

Many backpackers and soldiers carry nylon gaitors to protect their boots from water when walking through wet areas. There are ways to winterize the boots to keep them protected from the elements. Carrying an extra pair of laces would be a good thing to keep in mind as well. As laces seem to weaken and break well before the footwear does.
Not only is it important to have undamaged shoes to protect the feet, but have an appropriate fitting shoes as well. There are stories of children who grew up during the time of the Depression and did not have good shoes to wear. In a personal Depression example, my grandmother wore shoes made from tires that her father made. They did not fit, but she did not complain as she was thankful just for having those. She wore tight fitting shoes for years that did a number on her feet. As a result, she had to have countless surgeries to help her hammer toes. Her feet are now deformed as a result of wearing tight fitting shoes. This is a prime example of why good footwear is important.
When preparing to buy footwear for children, footwear can be purchased on clearance two sizes larger than what they wear. Then buy another pair of shoes that are two sizes too big. By using this method, if there is more than one child, shoes can be passed on. Worn out treads, cracked leather, and rotten stitching can create ways for nature to seep into your shoes. It is important to take care of your footwear. In the Special Forces Survival Guide, the Royal Marines have a tip for caring for boots:

Stuff wet boots with newspapers and dry them in a warm, airy place, through not in direct hear, which will bake and then crack the leather. In winter, rub silicone or wax over the laces to stop them from freezing when they get wet.

Nothing can end a great outdoor experience faster than painful blisters, pinched toes or even injuries caused by inappropriate hiking boots. By taking care of your shoes, you are essentially taking care of your self. Investing in a good pair of waterproof boots is a lasting investment.
Related Articles:
Are You Ready Series: Emergency Medical Supply
Are You Ready Series: Emergency Water Supply
Are You Ready Series: Emergency Clothing


Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: November 28th, 2009
Related Categories: Are You Ready, Shelter and Clothing
Related Reading:

• Are You Ready Series: Emergency Clothing
• A Free Falling Economy Makes Bartering Go Boom
• Rookie Preppers: 8 Mistakes To Avoid
• Disaster: It’s Not a Case of If, But When
• Short Term Emergency Check List

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Are You Ready Series: Emergency Clothing

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
November 2009

Essential clothing for a disaster supply is a commonly overlooked area of prepping. If a person does not have the proper clothing that is suitable for the terrain they are in, then harsh elements such as rain, cold, and snow can cause catastrophic effects. Preparation for an emergency means having the right tools and clothing to meet any emergency situation. Let this article serve as a basic guideline on some of the principles to keep in mind when researching what type of clothing will be needed if a disastrous incident breaks out.
The Layer Principle

According to the Special Forces Survival Guide, the Layer Principle offers the absolute best protection and flexibility for all types of climates. The idea of layering clothing creates the best type of insulation in the form of still air. The still air is trapped between layers of clothing. The more layers that are worn, the greater the insulating effect. Taking off layers of clothes serves as temperature control.

It is important to note that when preparing for cold weather, all of the body extremities should be well protected and maximum warmth is derived from multiple layers. Water-proofing is as critical as warmth.
Source – Special Forces Survival Guide

It is important to note that overheating can be as much of a problem as being cold. If you sweat when it is cold, the body chills when you stop sweating and your sweat-soaked clothing will act as a conductor to draw away body heat into the air. Steps must be taken to prevent this.
Proper Layering Techniques

• Thermal underwear should be worn close against the skin.
• A woolen or wool mixture shirt should be worn over the thermal underwear.
• On top of this layer should be a woolen or good woven fiber sweater or jacket (woven fiber tends to be better because it is warmer and more windproof).
• A jacket filled with synthetic fiber should be worn over the last layer. The Special Forces Guide advises not to wear a down jacket as it tends to lose its insulating properties when it gets wet.
• The final layer must be windproof and waterproof. This jacket is the outer shell of the thermal protection gear. It should also be made of a “breathable” fabric such as Goretex, which allows sweat to evaporate through the fabric into the atmosphere while as the same time stops rain and water from getting in. These last two layers can be combined into a single jacket.
• Make sure that a durable hat is worn to insulate the heat given off by your head. The Special Forces Survival Guide estimates that between 40 and 50% of heat loss from the body in some conditions can occur through the head. Therefore, having proper head gear is essential to maintaining proper body heat. Preferably the hat should be a nylon shell with ear flaps that can snap down. A brim on the hat would help keep snow out of the eyes.

When preparing clothing for an emergency situation, bug out bag (B.O.B), or SHTF scenario, comfortable, non-restricting clothing should be chosen. Keep in mind that you are preparing for any given situation. Just because you have a warm home, or shelter does not mean that the shelter will always be there. If there is a situation where you are left to walk in the harsh elements of nature, you must prepare for that.
Footwear
Good footwear has everything to do with survival. A good pair of waterproof boots will protect your feet from the natural elements (water, heat, cold, snow, etc). Boots that have flexible soles and deep tread are the best type of shoes to have as far as walking/hiking in nature go. There is much debate on whether to purchase all leather boots that are fairly heavier or light weight hiking boots. Several studies have shown that wearing one extra pound on your feet takes as much energy as carrying five or six pounds in a backpack. Keep in mind of the terrain of the location you will be in to make the right decision of the type of footwear that should be purchased. There are many reviews of hiking boots to determine what is the best choice.
Socks
Socks are vital in keeping the feet warm and free of moisture. Without a good pair of socks, the feet are susceptible to not only natural extremities, but also susceptible to blistering and other injuries to your feet. Socks should be matched to the intended type of weather condition and the type of walking will be done. Whether a person wears multiple pairs of thin layered socks or wears two thick pairs, it is entirely up to the person’s preferences. But carrying multiple pairs in your backpack or B.O.B. is a good idea. If one gets worn out, or wet, then there are extras on hand. Try and keep socks as clean and moisture free as possible to prevent fungal infections and other unwanted podiatry ailments. Always plan and prepare for the worst.
What Type of Sock Should Be Purchased
Like a shoe or boot, your hiking socks should be matched to the type of activity a person will be doing. According to www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com, there are things to keep in mind when choosing a good pair of socks.

• Blood Flow – Good blood flow through the feet must be maintained. A decrease or cut-off in blood flow can be caused by unyielding fabrics in hiking socks. Acrylics in combination with other fibers and a terry weave can help with this and shear.
• Moisture- With exertion one foot can sweat 1-2 pints of vapor/fluid per day. That’s why wicking technology in hiking socks is so important. Without it bacteria and fungus can become a problem.
• Position – If your hiking socks don’t help to maintain correct anatomical alignment this can cause premature fatigue. Correct posture also helps to correctly position your foot in your boot or shoe to make it feel like it’s an extension of your body.
• Pressure Areas – Pressure can cause discomfort and lead to damage if it’s not addressed. A good example of this is a bedsore. Most people hopefully won’t experience pressure to this degree, but it’s something you want to keep in mind when looking at hiking socks. Padding is especially important around bony areas like the heal and ball of the foot.
• Shearing Force – This happens when your tissue is moving in opposite directions, like when jumping over a stream, or descending a steep slope. Part of your skin is moving one way and the tissue under it another, this causes a tearing action just under the surface of the skin. This is the most common way of getting blisters.
• Temperature – Good hiking socks need to be appropriate for their intended use, from a warm weather day hike to a week-long mountaineering trip.
• Liners- Thin socks called liners are made to be worn under your hiking socks next to your skin so they can wick the moisture away and keep your feet dry. They also can help prevent chafing and increase warmth by wicking when used under heavier hiking socks.

Invest in a good pair of socks, it’s worth every penny spent.
Gloves
The layering princle also works with gloves. According to the Special Forces Survival Guide, mittens are better for heat retention. Putting a thin pair of gloves under the mittens helps maintain heat if the mittens need to be removed to grab something. There are also waterproof winter gloves available that have built in pockets to put a heating pack in to also maintain good body heat. However, if a person is going outside to work, then they would need leather gloves or an insulated synthetic pair that is durable. A pair of leather gloves can also be “winterized” with SnowSeal, paraffin or seal oil to protect the leather.
Outer Clothes
When outdoors, it is recommended to wear lightweight, quick drying, windproof pants. Synthetic/cotton gabardine weaves are the best. These type of pants also have multiple pockets with zippers that are handy for carrying extra items. There are also pants that convert into shorts for an all weather type of clothing. However, keeping the extremities warm is the point to keep in mind.
If possible, try to avoid wearing cotton clothing. Tight cotton clothing that gets wet has a tendancy to hold the water next to the skin which can drop the body temperature as a very alarming rate. Wool clothing is naturally durable as well as a natural thermostatic insulator that keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Wool naturally repels water and has the unique property of keeping the body warm even if it gets wet.
In the book, The Patriots, Rawles discusses the importance of having the same type of clothes per group as it makes your group more easily identifiable to each other in the case of unwanted vistitors. Wearing BDUs is a sturdy outfit that is equipped with handy pockets as well as camouflages into a natural background. Coveralls and overalls are another suggestion of clothing to wear. This would especially be good to dress children in as they tend to need more growing room than adults.
Undergarments
Never underestimate the relief of a clean pair of underwear when you have not had clean underwear for sometime. Having clean underwear is also essential to good hygeine. Buy an extra pack of underwear for your B.O.B as well as some for your long term survival supply. For kids, buy some packs of underwear that are a few sizes too big so they can grow into it.
The C.O.L.D.E.R Principle

Creating a thermal protection system is essential in surviving in the open terrain. If a person does not protect themselves against the natural elements, then injury and possibly death could ensue. Having the proper attire to survive can be an investment, but a necessary one. Find reviews online to see what type of clothing is the most durable, long lasting and best suited for the area you will be living in. The U.S. Air Force has an acronym that helps them remember the principles of survival clothing:

C – Keep clothing clean.
O – Avoid overheating.
L – Wear clothing loose and in layers.
D – Keep clothing dry.
E – Examine clothing for defects in wear.
R – Keep clothing repaired.
Source – Special Forces Survivor Guide

When you are preparing, you are preparing to survive in any given situation. Even if the SHTF scenario does not happen. What happens if your electricity and heat in your home are effected by a bad snow storm and the heat gets turned off for a week. You and your family must have the appropriate clothing on hand to survive until the heat is turned back on. Having the necessary clothing packed will keep you prepared and ready to act swiftly in the case of an unplanned emergency arises.
The Special Forces Survival Guide: Wilderness Survival Skills From The World’s Most Elite Military Units is a huge survival resource that should be in any prepper’s library. This learning tool teaches essential survival skills to stay alive in extreme conditions, harsh terrain and gives examples of what to do in life threatening emergencies. This book is the first book I purchased for my Preparedness library and I constantly look upon on for advice.
Related Articles:
Are You Ready Series: Emergency Medical Supply
Are You Ready Series: Emergency Water Supply

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: November 27th, 2009
Related Categories: Are You Ready, Shelter and Clothing


Related Reading:

• Are You Ready Series: Essential Footwear
• Cold Weather Preparedness
• Are You Ready Series: 72 Hour Kits
• Essential Emergency Preps: Thermo-lite 2.0 Bivvy Bag
• Use the Snow Storm As a Test Run For the Real Thing

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Be Ready with Vehicle 72 Hour Kits

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
December 2009

Many prepping websites have multiple articles on 72 hours bags (aka: evac packs, bug-out-bags, blow out bags or survival kits). Every family should have a 72 hour bag ready, not because we should all run for the hills, but because there may be an unforeseen disaster where your family will have to make a swift evacuation. Certain disasters can occur very quickly such as fires, hurricanes and flooding. Having things in order as well as a plan in place will expedite the process of leaving as well as keeping things running as smoothly as possible. The main goal of having a 72 hour bag is to be equipped to survive. In this case, survival is dependent upon you. Therefore, the 72 hour bag should be pre-assembled and ready to go as well as have a 72 hour bag seperately for the vehicle.
Personally speaking, when I assembled my family’s bug out bags it took a few hours to run through the house getting all the supplies in order. If I was in a time sensitive situation, I would have forgotten half of the items I packed. It’s essential that your B.O.Bs (Bug Out Bags) are ready to go.
What To Put Into a 72 Hour Bag?

What would your family need for 3 days? Better yet, what items would you take out of your house that would save your life for 3 days? It does not really matter what type of bag is used to place your items in. Many people use duffel bags, backpacks and suitcases to store their gear in. However, many experts advise that the bag or container should be waterproof. For those with multiple people in their family, each person in the family should have their own 72 hour bag that is placed into a large plastic container. A bag or container with a carrying handle would be advisable if the container holds many items or is for a family. Some thoughts to keep in mind when preparing your 72 hour bag are:

• Have aplan in place (choosing the location, let family members know where your destination is, the contact information, a secondary destination, etc.)
• Keep the basic needs in mind: food, water, shelter, clothing, safety and communication.
• Try and find items that are light weight, functional and versatile so that carrying them in a container will not be a strain.
• Take your bag out and use it a few times to test that nothing is forgotten.

Food
A little food can go a long way if you are creative enough. Find a stove to cook food in, and boil water. Try and find foods that are light weight an high in calories and have lots of energy. Have enough food for a 3 day period. Some possible food suggestions would be:

• MRE’s
• Crackers
• Pasta
• Hard Candy
• Energy Bars
• Dried Fruits and Nuts
• Instant Oatmeal
• Granola Bars
• Powdered Milk
• Jerky

Some other suggestions for meals would be:

• Bouillon Cubes
• Instant Rice/Mashed Potatoes
• Dried Soups
• Camping Freeze Dried Foods
• Gum
• Instant Pudding
• Powdered Drink Mixes (Tang, Crystal Light)
• Paper Plates, Cups and Eating Ware

Water
Having a good water supply is more important than food. A person cannot go without 3 days of water so have a plentiful amount. At a minimum, each person should have one gallon of water per day. In an emergency situation, such as a natural disaster, water is one of the first items to disappear off of a store shelf. If you can pack more water, then go for it. Many feel that due to the bulky nature of water bottles, it would add too much weight for the 72 hour kits. Therefore, many carry 1-2 liters of water and have water purification tablets or a water filter on hand. Here are some ideas for carrying water:

• Individual water bottles in the pack, gallon jugs of water, etc.
• Canteen
• Collapsible water container
• Water filter
• Water purification tablets

Clothing
Clothes in the 72 hour bag should be rotated every season and be appropriate to the environment you are in. Having items in your bag that can be layered is a great option.

• If it is the winter season: Pack all cold weather essentials in maintaining body heat: Layered clothing, warm hat preferably with flaps over the ears, waterproof pants, mittens, etc.
• Work Gloves
• Have at least one change of clothing in your bag and two extra pairs of socks.
• A good pair of boots (hiking or combat boots) with a deep trench in the sole.
• Rain Suit
• Poncho
• Hat to keep the sun off your face.
• Bandanna

Shelter
A shelter is to keep out the natural elements at bay as well as provide a warm place to sleep to maintain body temperature.

• Tents (lightweight)
• Sleeping bag
• Durable long lasting emergency blankets
• Tube tent (emergency shelter)
• Tarp
• Garbage bags can even be used for a shelter.
• Mylar emergency blankets

Fire
Having fire lighting gear will help maintain proper body temperature, assist in cooking food, and boiling water. If an emergency arises and you have to leave, you want to be able to have items on hand to make a fire to stay warm.

• Waterproof matches
• Magnesium Fire starters
• Cigarette Lighters

Communication
In a survival situation, communication is key. Family members and friends want to know that everyone is safe and sound and have made it to their ideal locations. Additionally, news sources such as radios need to be heard to find out if you are in a safe location, safe to go back to your home or are in a dangerous area.

• Cell Phone
• A 2-way radio
• Radio to get news and information.
• Whistle
• Battery powered tv
• Scanner to hear about police situations and fires that may be in the area
• Signals such as whistles, flares and mirrors are important

Tools
Tools will be used for a variety of reasons. Tools for hunting, shoveling, cutting, and for navigational purposes are all essential items for a 72 hour bag.

• Knives ( to cut large machete type and a smaller Gerber hunter)
• Multi-tool
• Camping shovels
• Candles
• Hammer or hatchet
• Collapsible fishing pole with hooks, line, bobbers, etc.
• Flares
• Maps, compass or GPS devices ( Having extra compasses ensures that navigation is accurate).
• Rope (paracord),
• Knife sharpening stone,
• Flash light with extra batteries

Written Survival Sources
In a high stress situation that some are not used to, forgetfulness plays a part from dealing with all the changes that are occuring. Having some manuals to look upon for survival information, or for spiritual information to lift the moral is a good idea and does not take up much space.

• Survival Manuals
• First Aid Manuals
• Bible

Safety
There is no guarantee that everything will go as planned. There are times when emergencies arise. Having a well stocked first aid kit is essential in the case that someone gets injured. Taking a basic first aid course to give the proper aid is an instrumental tool in providing the right type of care. First aid kits should be filled with every type of first aid gear that could be needed.

• Band-aids
• Antiseptic
• Gauze pads
• Medical tape
• Tourniquet
• Celox (Emergency Blood Clotting Granules)
• Bug spray
• Sunblock
• Poison ivy cream
• Skin irritation cream
• Pain reliever
• Anti-Diarrhea Medicine
• Prescription medicine
• Cold/Flu medicine
• Scissors

Weapons are another way of maintaining safety. Having the ability to defend yourself is another aspect to keep in mind.

• Hand gun
• Rifle
• Shot gun
• Knives
• Taser

Hygiene
In a bug out situation, many assume it could be for a few days, but it could be for longer periods of time. Keeping yourself clean is not only beneficial to those around you, but also to maintain health. Hygiene items are a good idea to put in your 72 hour bag:

• Toilet Paper
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Cleaning Wipes
• Soap
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Laundry Detergent

Personal Documents
When fleeing to a location other than your home, have the proper identification, and emergency information with in the case that you need to present it to a police officer, red cross disaster worker, state trooper, park ranger, etc.

• Journal (with a pen)
• Identification Information (drivers license, passports, wills, marriage licenses, birth certificates, social security cards, proof of address)
• Licenses for guns or for fishing, etc
• Health Insurance Information

If a disaster hits, and you are unprepared to flee the situation, fear and panic set in and mistakes are made. To better access the situation, preparation makes all the difference. Knowledge and preparation helps to control fear and keep a person calm. Calmness and clarity are the emotions that a person wants in a disaster situation. A 72 hour bag for multiple family members can take a longer amount of time than one may think. Having it pre-assembled and ready to go can put a person ahead of the game when it comes to bugging out. The more prepared a person is, the calmer they will be while evacuating.
72 Hour Kit E-Books:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3036529/Mo...cy-Preperation
http://www.scribd.com/doc/17778582/E...ness-Grab-n-Go

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: December 4th, 2009
Related Categories: Are You Ready, Emergency Checklists, Evacuation
Related Reading:

• Be Ready with Vehicle 72 Hour Kits
• Prepping: A Beginner’s Guide – Essential Items Needed for Disaster Preparation (Pt. 2)
• Week 6 of 52: Evacuation Preparedness
• Disaster Supplies for Surviving a Flood
• Suggested Items for Short Term Food Supply

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Storing Medical Supplies and Be Ready

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
December 2009

Storing medical supplies in the home for a possible disaster could save some one’s life if they need immediate medical assistance. In the event of a major disaster, such as a hurricane or earthquake, if someone in the home is injured, emergency responders cannot always get to the injured victims in time. Experts suggest having a well stocked arsenal of medical supplies in this instance.
Suggested Home Medical Supplies

The idea of having medical supplies in the home is to be prepared for any given situation that could arise. In the long run, if supplies are adequately organized and ready to go, the person administering medical assistance will have everything in place and be ready to act. Making an inventory list of everything that is needed for all family members (include children’s needs as well as family members with special needs) as well as items that have already been purchased can help with organizing the supplies for storage.

• Antacids
• Anti-diarrheal
• pain reliever
• Children’s pain reliever
• First aid book
• Prescription medications (keep copies for records)
• Cold/flu medicines
• Vitamins
• Blood clotting
• Sterile gauze
• Dressing bandages
• Dressing rolls
• Medical tape
• Bandages of all sizes
• Alcohol wipes
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Eye flushing solution
• Anesthetic solution
• Hypodermic needles (for the antiseptic solution)
• Electrolyte tablets
• Benadryl
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Cold Packs
• Warm Blankets
• Antibiotic ointment
• Thermometers
• Skin irritation creams
• Gloves
• Mask
• Suture needles/string
• List of medical contact phone numbers
• Medical history file (if needed)

Animals and house pets can often fall victim to an injury as well. Having medicine and first aid supplies for them will ensure their health and safety.
Storing Medical Supplies

Medicines can break down and spoil if they are subject to moisture, temperature fluctuations and exposure to light. For example, aspirin has a tendency to begin the breakdown process when it is exposed to a slight amount of moisture. Unless the medicine indicates otherwise, store the medicines in a cool, dark place that is out of children’s reach. If possible, try and find a place to put the medical supplies that is in an easily accessible area in the event of a medical crises. Check expiration dates periodically to ensure the medicines are still good to use. Additionally, storing a first aid kit in the car and in the 72 hour bag will provide additional medical assistance if needed.
Signs of Expired Medicines
Although there is data that medicine can last longer than their expiration dates, knowing the signs of expired medicine can help indicate when new items are needed.

• Creams or ointments which are discolored or have changed in texture.
• Creams or ointments which have cracked or separated.
• The medicines smell has changed since it was opened.
• Tablets are broken or chipped and have changed color.

Source – www.generalmedicine.suite101.com

Organizing medical supplies to be ready for a possible disaster is not a time consuming event. In a disaster situation, having supplies on hand to deal with a medical emergency can expedite the stabilization process and possibly save a life.
Related Articles:
Are You Ready Series: Emergency Medical Supply


Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: December 18th, 2009
Related Categories: Are You Ready, Reserve Supplies, Storage


Related Reading:

• Week 3 of 52: Emergency Medical Supply (List 1)
• Week 9 of 52: Emergency Medical Supply (List 2)
• Week 15 of 52: Emergency Medical Supply (List 3)
• SHTF Survival: First Response Packs for Medical Emergencies
• Are You Ready Series: Emergency Medical Supply

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...eady_18122009/

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Ready for the New Year: Prepping with Vigilance

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
January 2010

Now that the new year is here, many have made the resolution to be more vigilant with their disaster preparedness. And for some, they have decided to start the prepping process.
In Eastern Europe, at the end of December, stores are closed for two weeks for “inventura,” or inventory. Taking an inventory of supplies at the beginning of the year to see how much one has acquired and what one may need to stock up on is a good start to being more proactive. Furthermore, making plans to develop more knowledge based skills for the year such as CPR/first aid courses, auto shop classes, gardening courses or other crafting skills is also a proactive choice at continuing preparedness.
Make a List

Many who have already started prepping, have not created a list that has all the items acquired or needed for the future. Creating a spread sheet or keeping a written list of all the items needed for the preparedness list and checking the items that have been obtained is a great way to keep records organized. Furthermore, if mulitple preppers are involved, get all members together to see where everyone is at and verify that everyone is still on track. Make sure that contact information for all those involved in the disaster plan is correct and documented. “Prep meetings” are a good way to bounce ideas and scenarios off one another to be able to prepare even further.
Those that are new to prepping, begin by making a “list of lists.” Depending on the type of disaster one is preparing for write down the main items that will be needed such as food, shelter, water, first aid, and then add to the main sections. It is important to create the list that suits the particular needs of the person making it or his/her family.
Things to Keep in Mind with the List:

• How much food and water per member of the household.
• Any special medical needs that one may need to prepare for.
• Making preparations for anyone with a handicap.
• If children are a part of the household, making sure there are soothing items for them (books, games, special foods, etc).
• If there are pets in the home, prepare for extra food/water and any other needs to keep them healthy and safe.

In the popular book: How to Survive The End of The World as we Know It by James Wesley, Rawles, (who many consider the Godfather of Survivalism) he suggests being prepared for any type of disaster and suggests making a “List of lists.” Some list suggestions include:

• Water
• Food-Storage
• Food-Preparation
• Personal
• First Aid/Minor-Surgery
• Chem/Nuke Defense
• Biological -Warfare – and Pandemic – Defense
• Gardening
• Hygeine/Sanitation
• Hunting/Fishing/Trapping
• Power/Lighting/Batteries
• Fuels
• Firefighting
• Tactical – Living
• Security – General
• Security – Firearms
• Barter and Charity

As previously mentioned, depending on how far one wants to prepare is dependent on their personal taste. However, many like to prepare for the absolute worst case scenario so that all preparedness areas are covered. Rawles indicates that it is important to be prepared enough to “hunker down” for at least three to four months, with minimal outside contact.
Make a Plan: Prepare for the Worst, Hope for the Best

If a disaster strikes, a person wants a well defined plan on how to most effectively stay safe. There are times when disasters are sudden, and while many are not prepared for this likelihood, there are some who are. And the ones that are prepared, are the ones who can leave the disaster area faster.

• Sitting down and preparing a plan A, B and C will help ensure that if things do not go exactly as planned, there is another plan to fall back on.
• Have maps on hand and plan evacuation routes.
• Having a safe place to stay (outside of the effected area) should also be relayed as a priority. Talk with family and friends so that it is already planned.
• Create a 72 hour bag with items that a person or family can sustain themselves on, so that if a disaster does occur, they are already prepared to leave.
• Have a organized manual that has all the necessary information in it so that it can be grabbed in a pinch.
• Having a way to stay informed such as a hand crank radio, HAM radio, etc is another form of preparedness that needs to be taken into consideration.

Be Vigilant

Being attentive and doing annual inventory checks to maintain storage items and preparing a list for items and skills to acquire during the year will keep a person as prepared as possible. Preparing for a disaster is a year long process. A person should always be on the look out for preparedness needs and stock up accordingly. Maintaining the storage gear and items can get disorganized if a person let’s it. Setting time aside for organization of goods will ensure everything is in it’s place when one needs it.


Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: January 4th, 2010
Related Categories: Preparedness Mindset, Reserve Supplies


Related Reading:

• The 5 P’s of Preparedess
• Family Emergency Plan Check List
• The G.O.O.D Survival Manuals: Every Family Should Have One
• Emergency Manual Information List
• Prepping: Basic Beginners Guide – Why Prep? (Pt. 1)

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...ance_04012010/

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Prepping: Basic Beginners Guide - Why Prep? (Pt. 1)


Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
February 2010

To those of you who have seen the importance of preparing and have a desire to keep your family safe during a disaster - congratulations. Prepping is for those who are preparing for the unknown future, and for those who see the importance of having necessary items in place before a disaster strikes. This guide is a 2 part series that will give you the basic fundamental knowledge on how to start prepping, help you gain an understanding of why you need to have certain disaster supplies, and give insight on where to get certain supplies.
Those that are new to prepping should start with planning for a given disaster and then begin acquiring items for their basic needs. The logic behind prepping is the same for those preparing for a short term disaster or a long term disaster. That logic is: To be self sufficient and have the ability to care for yourself and your family independently during an unforeseen disaster. Creating adisaster check list will add another layer of disaster planning, and expedite the process of getting ready for a disaster, if one comes your way.
Know What You Are Preparing For

Disasters can strike quickly and without warning. Knowing what type of disasters could effect the area you live in will help you plan more thoroughly for the disaster. Deciding on the type of disaster to prepare for will also determine the type of survival gear that is needed. For example, if a person lives in an area prone to flash flooding and torrential downpours from thunderstorms, the items they choose would be different than survival items chosen for earthquake preparedness. Typically, the best way to prepare for a disaster is to plan for the worst case scenario so that all areas are covered. Many think this ideology is a bit excessive, but being completely prepared and self sufficient for a given disaster is the reasoning behind prepping. It is a state of mind for many.
Types of Preppers

There are different types of preppers – the short term and the long term preppers. Short term preppers are those that want to be prepared for anywhere between 1 week-3 months. Many government websites such as The American Red Cross and FEMA suggest every family have a short term food supply in the case that food routes are interrupted due to severe storms, or unforeseen circumstances.
For longer term needs preppers generally are planning for disasters that have a longer term effect, thus they plan for longer self sufficiency in the event the disaster does occur. Long term preppers have a short term supply to compliment their long term supply. A longer term food supply usually includes dehydrated foods, MRE’s,seeds, hand crank wheat grinders, and equipment to be used in an non-technological environment. For a more detailed list on short term food supplies and longer term food supplies, click here.
Disasters do not happen to other people - they can happen to you, and they can happen to me. As long as you are prepared for a given scenario, then you already have tools in place when you need it most. According to some, prepping has become some sort of a social movement. Preparing for a disaster and being self sufficient has occurred for centuries. It is nothing new. It is simply families trying to make the hard times easier.
For information on necessary and essential items needed to prepare for emergencies, go to Prepping: A Beginner’s Guide - Pt. 2


Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: February 16th, 2010
Related Categories: Preparedness Mindset, Prepping Calculators, Reserve Supplies

Related Reading:

• The 5 P’s of Preparedess
• The Evolution of Preppers
• The Survival Mom and Tom Martin Reveal Why There Is So Much Interest In Prepping
• Disaster Planning: Kind of a Big Deal
• Prepping: A Beginner’s Guide – Essential Items Needed for Disaster Preparation (Pt. 2)

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...prep_16022010/

Building a fire with no matches, or even no wood, The Brigham Tea co, survival skills

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbaFw9iNEaI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbaFw9iNEaI

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Food Storage: Getting Started

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
October 2009

Starting a supply of food does not have to be a budget breaker. Think like a squirrel gathering a little bit at a time. Start with a short term supply and then compliment that with a longer term supply of food.
Comparative shopping at the large volume supermarkets typically has better deals than at the smaller stores. Finding local ads from the large supermarket store websites can save on gas money as well as on shopping time. Even the Dollar stores carry canned goods and food products that would be good for short term/long term food supplies. Look for sales at the stores and buy as much of the item as your budget will allow.
There are a few things to consider besides the price of the cans. While at the store, take a few moments to consider:

• Expiration Dates
• Find Items On Sale
• “In Season” Vegetables Are Typically Cheaper
• See If Larger Canned Food Items Have Better Deals

Find a shelving unit and begin shelving your supplies in any unused space in your home (coat closet, bedroom closet, basements, etc). There are other supplies one would need such as medical supplies, radios, stoves, sleeping bags, warm clothing, etc. This blog will concentrate on what to store and how to to store the foods that you will need.
I love this video that the Deschamps Family made. They used a bathroom for their food storage. This is really making good use of space. It’s obvious in the video they have a longer term food supply, but you can see that you start out buying staple foods and add on.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lC6ySmhq9Fc&feature=player_embedded


Grocery List for Survival Supplies
Short Term Supply

It is good to have a well rounded short term supply to compliment your long term food stuffs. A properly stocked pantry will help supplement your long term food stuffs. Short Term Supplies and Long Term Supplies go hand in hand in order for your preparations to last longer.

• Water
• Canned Goods (meat, veggies, soup)
• Vitamins
• Food Condiments, Peanut Butter, Jelly, Mustard, Ketchup, BBQ Sauce, etc.
• Drink Mixes/Tea/Coffee
• Flour, Sugar, Salt, baking powder
• Spices
• Oil
• Pre-packaged foods – beans, dried peas, rice, noodles, oats, grains
• Ramen Noodles
• Self Canned Goods – Self canned goods adds variety to diet. Find vegetables that have high nutreint such as pumpkin, etc.
• First Aid Supply – Iodine, Pain Medication (Asprin, Tylenol, etc), Bandanges, Antibiotic Ointment
• Antibacterial Wipes or Hand Disinfectant
• MRE’s
• Ramen Noodles
• Infant Formula – call me crazy, but this has a huge amount of vitamins and nutrients and could help for immune boosts.
• Powdered Milk
• Matches and Other Fire Starting Equipment
• Paper Plates, Plastic Eating Utensils – You dont want to waste water on washing dishes.
• Bleach
• Freeze Dried Foods
• Personal Hygiene (Paper Towels, Toilet Paper, Soap, Shaving Cream, Toothpaste).
• Food For Pets
• Gasoline and Other Fuels (Kerosene, Lamp Oil)
• Candles (Camping Candles Burn Longer)
• Ziploc Bags
• Garbage Bags
• Batteries for Flashlights, etc.
• Weapons – Just in Case

Long Term Supplies

Higher levels of food are needed to last 3+ years. Keep buying some of the Short Term Items To Compliment the Long Term

• Water
• Larger Amounts of Short Term Supplies
• Vitamins
• Longer Term First Aid Supply
• MRE’s – susceptible for temperature and storage problems. good for more short term problems.
• Canned Goods – find some on sale and make sure of the expiration date. Most last 1-3 years.
• Drink Mixes/Teas/Coffee
• Oil
• #10 cans – Freeze Dried foods can last for 20-30 year shelf life. Buckets of mylar packaging material.
• Seeds of all kinds – Heirloom and Non-GMO seeds are better. Some to grow, and some to be used for sprouts (pumpkin, alfalfa, broccoli, lentil).
• Mylared Packaged Goods or Super pails of Goods - grains, rice, beans, oats, legumes, flour, corn meal, powdered milk, sugar, salt, baking powder.
• Spices
• Large Storage Containers
• Tools – Axes Shovels, Wrenches, Hammers, Multi Use Pliers, Farming Tools
• Wood – pre chopped
• Matches and Other Fire Starting Equipment
• Paper Plates, Plastic Eating Utensils – You dont want to waste water on washing dishes.
• Matches and Other Fire Starting Equipment
• Paper Plates, Plastic Eating Utensils – You dont want to waste water on washing dishes.
• Bleach
• Freeze Dried Foods
• Personal Hygiene (Paper, Towels, Toilet Paper, Soap, Deodorant, Toothpaste)
• Clothing (Lots of Warm Clothing, and Items to Layer Under)
• Food For Pets
• Gasoline and Other Fuels (Keronsene, Lamp Oil)
• Candles (Camping Candles Burn Longer)
• Ziploc Bags
• Garbage Bags
• Batteries
• Weapons – Just in Case

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: October 13th, 2009
Related Categories: Inventory Management, Prepping Calculators, Reserve Supplies, Storage

Related Reading:

• Essential Items for a Long Term Food Supply
• Home Canning Makes A Comeback
• Is This The End Of Micro Farms?
• Vitamin D: The Secret Weapon in Fighting Influenza.
• Fox News Demonstration: Long Term Food Storage Basics – How to Pack Rice, Wheat, Beans and Dry Goods

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...rted_13102009/

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Home Canning Makes A Comeback

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
October 2009

http://trkfld.files.wordpress.com/20...-s600x6001.jpg

Home Canning dates back to the 18th century during the time where Napolean Bonaparte realized the need to provision his army with food while they were away fighting. By providing these canned foods to his army, it gave him a huge advantage over his opponents. The canning process allows us to keep food way beyond it’s normal storage period by preventing microorganisms from deteriorating the food. Because the food is canned at the time of the fruits/vegetables prime nutrient content, they will retain most of their nutritional content if not gain more nutrients from the canning process. Benefits of Home Canning Foods

• Save Money
• Use Food To The Fullest Measure
• Eat Healthier
• No Additives or Chemicals
• Better Taste
• The liquid used to preserve fruits and vegetables also includes nutrients, so rather than draining and adding water, use the canning liquid, especially in soups or stews.

Having a ready supply of home canned and store bought canned goods can be of benefit if their is a potential for a national disaster.
How To: Can Fruits or Vegetables

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIxrfOG7y1k

How To: Pickle Vegetables

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QRWbqsJDQY&feature=player_embedded

How To: Can Meals

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXSBCrw9dSg&feature=player_embedded#!



Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: October 15th, 2009

Related Categories: Dietary Wellness, Reserve Supplies



Related Reading:

• Is This The End Of Micro Farms?
• Vitamin D: The Secret Weapon in Fighting Influenza.
• Proof It Can Be Done: A Micro Farm in the Suburbs
• Food Storage: Getting Started
• The Dirty Truth About Being Green

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...back_15102009/

Unknown Survival Tricks

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
October 2009

videos at the page link http://readynutrition.com/resources/...icks_17102009/

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: October 17th, 2009
Related Categories: Health and Safety, Preparedness, Reserve Supplies
Related Reading:

• Is This The End Of Micro Farms?

• Proof It Can Be Done: A Micro Farm in the Suburbs
• Home Canning Makes A Comeback
• Check this out! The Stove-Tec Rocket Stove
• Tess Talks About Prepping on Family Preparedness Guide Talk Show!
  
  
  Photos and videos at this link http://funditor.110mb.com/
  
  
  
  
  
  

Need help here Patriots!!! Please Join In!!!

http://www.alipac.us/ftopict-189431.html :)

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Essential Items for a Long Term Food Supply


Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
February 2009

When preparing for a long term disaster, it is essential to have provisions in place to secure long term needs. That being said, beginning a food supply must begin with research. Finding out how many calories a person needs per day in order to survive, and knowing how much food to store for the long term is essential when beginning to prepare a long term food supply. Additionally, going to survival/prepping forums to read about what others are doing is another way of finding more research. Some suggested items for long term supplies are:
Long Term Supplies

Higher levels of food are needed to last 3+ years. Keep buying some of the short term items to compliment the long term:

• Water
• Larger Amounts of Short Term Supplies
• Vitamins
• Longer Term First Aid Supply
• MRE’s – susceptible for temperature and storage problems. good for more short term problems.
• Canned Goods – find some on sale and make sure of the expiration date. Most last 1-3 years.
• Drink Mixes/Teas/Coffee
• Oil
• #10 cans – Freeze Dried foods can last for 20-30 year shelf life. Buckets of mylar packaging material.
• Seeds of all kinds – Heirloom and Non-GMO seeds are better. Some to grow, and some to be used for sprouts (pumpkin, alfalfa, broccoli, lentil).
• Mylared Packaged Goods or Super pails of Goods - grains, rice, beans, oats, legumes, flour, corn meal, powdered milk, sugar, salt, baking powder.
• Spices
• Large Storage Containers
• Tools – Axes Shovels, Wrenches, Hammers, Multi Use Pliers, Farming Tools
• Wood – pre chopped
• Matches and Other Fire Starting Equipment
• Paper Plates, Plastic Eating Utensils – You dont want to waste water on washing dishes.
• Matches and Other Fire Starting Equipment
• Paper Plates, Plastic Eating Utensils – You dont want to waste water on washing dishes.
• Bleach
• Freeze Dried Foods
• Personal Hygiene (Paper, Towels, Toilet Paper, Soap, Deodorant, Toothpaste)
• Clothing (Lots of Warm Clothing, and Items to Layer Under)
• Food For Pets
• Gasoline and Other Fuels (Keronsene, Lamp Oil)
• Candles (Camping Candles Burn Longer)
• Ziploc Bags
• Garbage Bags
• Batteries
• Weapons – Just in Case

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: February 15th, 2009
Related Categories: Emergency Checklists, Reserve Supplies

Related Reading:

• Food Storage: Getting Started
• If The SHTF, Make Sure You Have Toilet Paper!
• Week 20 of 52: 1 Month Supply of Food
• Food Storage: Stocking Up For The Holidays
• Emergency Items: What Will Disappear First

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...pply_15022009/

The information provided is only to familiarize a person with the ideas of emergency medical response. This post is intended to give suggestions of things one may do in an emergency medical situation and should not be construed as medical advice. Getting someone to receive professional medical attention is by far the best thing to do.

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Are You Ready Series: Emergency Medical Supply


Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
November 2009

In the midst of a disaster, be it natural or man made, there may come a time when a family member or neighbor will need medical attention. Are you prepared for this? What if the person needs stitches? Do you know the appropriate suturing technique? What about a dental emergency? There is a long list of medical situations that many are not prepared to do. When responding to a medical situation take the safety route by accessing the situation, environment and injured person. Take precautions and wear protective equipment if necessary such as eye goggles and survival gloves.
Having Medical Information On Hand May Help Save A Life

Emergency safety books can be purchased in book stores, Red Cross Organizations and even online. Having this information in your G.O.O.D Manual, 72 hour bag or survival supplies does not take up much space. In fact, having a wide array of knowledge sources in the survival supplies is a key point in surviving a disaster. Here are a few e-books that were found on this subject:

• First Aid Full Manual
• Emergency War Surgery
• First Aid for Dental Emergencies

Familiarize Yourself With The Solutions

Some people cannot stand the sight of blood. In the case of an emergency, they have no choice. If a person is bleeding and needs help, action must be taken. Sometimes, visibly seeing the process of what is involved can desensitize the person who would be administering the aid as well as teaching and preparing themselves more fully. Find websites online such as www.firstaid.about.com that deal with first aid care and go through each injury to see what medical instruments and items are needed. Make a list for supplies that can be added to the disaster medical supplies. Watching medical videos online can assist in learning about medical techniques as well as desensitizing someone to open wounds. For example, see the following links for a few medical demonstration videos found online.

• Different Types of Suturing
• Different Surgical Techniques

First Aid Kits
When preparing a medical first aid kit, research what the advanced kits have and purchase the items from that kit individually, if possible. This will create a unique kit that is individualized for the people that will need it, as well as save money in the process. Some kits are overloaded with items that may not be needed. Additionally, think about how many people may need first aid from the kit. If there are not enough medical supplies for everyone, it may be time to stock up on some additional items. First aid kits can be used for the home as well as the car. There are many websites online that carry the everyday first aid kit and advance up to the immediate response kits. Websites such as www.thereadystore.com is a great website to start at.

Emergency Response Medicines
When an emergency situation arises, one must act calming and decisively. In the case of a severe injury where there is a lot of blood loss, there must be supplies that can stop bleeding, cut the pain threshold and calm the patient if necessary.

Celox
Initially, if someone has an open wound, the first thing to do is to try and stop the bleeding. Emergency responders are now carrying Celox. Celox can instantly clot and stops bleeding in 30 seconds. Celox is made from a natural polymer extracted from shrimp shells called chitosan.

Celox bonds to the surface of red blood cells and platelets to produce a gel like clot or plug. It works independently of the body’s normal clotting machanism and can clot hypothermic or even heparinised blood.

Removing celox from a wound is as easy as it is to put in the wound. One can remove as much of the celox “plug” by hand and then irrigate it with water or a saline solution. This would be an effective tool to have in any first aid supply. This is something that could prolong a life long enough to save it. Celox is available at www.celox.com as well as available on www.amazon.com.

Lidocaine
When dealing with a painful injury, lidocaine can dull the area around the wound so that treatment can be made. Many doctors offices and dentists use lidocaine on their patients to numb the area they would be working on. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic (numbing medication) used topically on the skin or gums to reduce pain or discomfort. Additionally, many use lidocaine to care for scratches, painful bug bites, and painful skin irritations such as poison ivy. Use a small amount on the wound area as a little can go a long way. If one uses too much there are overdose symptoms such as uneven heartbeats, seizure, coma, slowed breathing, or respiratory breathing. There are different forms of using lidocaine such as pump sprays, gels, creams and powders. Many of these forms are available on www.amazon.com. Just do a little researching into the types that you would want.

As many are beginning to make lists to fully prepare for any number of emergency situations, questions are raised as to the how much one will need to be fully prepared. People may ask themselves, “What plans do I have in place in case a disaster happens?”, “Will I be have enough supplies to last through the disaster?” or “Will I have enough knowledge acquired to make a decisive action?” Taking the necessary steps to prepare for a disaster depends on how long the estimated time the disaster will last. Medical emergencies can occur at the drop of a hat, and having the necessary supplies can mean the difference between life and death.

The information provided is only to familiarize a person with the ideas of emergency medical response. This post is intended to give suggestions of things one may do in an emergency medical situation and should not be construed as medical advice. Getting someone to receive professional medical attention is by far the best thing to do.

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: November 9th, 2009
Related Categories: Are You Ready, Medical Emergencies

Related Reading:

• SHTF Survival: First Response Packs for Medical Emergencies
• Prepping: A Beginner’s Guide – Essential Items Needed for Disaster Preparation (Pt. 2)
• Week 9 of 52: Emergency Medical Supply (List 2)
• Are You Ready Series: Storing Medical Supplies To Be Ready
• Medical Emergency Checklist

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...pply_09112009/

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Emergency Manual Information List

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
October 2009

Having an emergency preparedness manual is the next step to fully preparing your family for an emergency. At this very moment you are already investing your time into reading what you should do to prepare. A G.O.O.D Manual (Get Out Of Dodge Manual) is an easy, non expensive way to have vital information nearby, when it is needed most. Keep this manual outline on hand while preparing your family’s manual. The benefit is everyone will be fully prepared and have a complete knowledge base on what is necessary to thrive as a family.
The information needed in the binder will need to be organized into different sections:

• Medical Information On All Family Members – Complete emergency medical information including immunization records, blood type, previous injuries, food or medical allergies can be very useful in case of an emergency. You do not want to waste time running around looking for this information. Have an “Additional Notes” section at the back of the section for later use.
• Contact Information For Next of Kin – Make sure the family knows who is next of kin and how to get in contact with them.
• Emergency Plans - It’s good to have an emergency plan in place and written down that anyone can turn to for direction. Emergencies come at the drop of a hat and can cause confusion for those that do not have a well defined emergency plan, back up plan or evac plan. All plans and details should be included in this section. Additionally, emergency routes to be taken should be placed in this section as well as maps that would be used.
• Complete Inventory List of Supplies - A supply/inventory list is a crucial item that everyone should have on hand. Itemized food, water rations, medical supplies, seeds, home canning equipment, books, etc should be included.
• What To Do In The Case Of A Medical Emergency – Think of low priority injuries such as sprained ankles, colds, poison ivy, etc and move on to high priority injuries such as broken bones, heart attack or stroke. This section is for you that have on hand and use as a quick referral. All family members must know where to find this information. I have a first aid book with illustrations for this section. Anything the family can look at to get direction.
• Survival Information- finding food, preserving food, purifying water, food storage, gardening, etc. Any information that you have found of use, put in down in this section. It is the basic How-To-Live section.
• Family Notes Section – This section should be used to organize and store important family information such as personal documents, financial information, insurance information, informative notes and listing responsibilities for each family member. How will they help out? Why is it important for them to contribute?
• Inspirational Messages To Keep The Faith – This is an important section to refer to when things start getting harder and children start asking lots of hard questions. This also teaches them the importance of positive thinking and holding onto their faiths. Reassurance is very important when it comes to cheering children up. Find bible verses, songs, poems or write them a letter letting them know why they are so special and how much you mean to them.
• Happy Section – Include of few favorite family stories (birth, funny moments, Holiday stories), a small family scrap book, favorite song lyrics, etc. This takes the entire family back to a simpler, less chaotic time. Not to mention a good way to spend some family time together cherishing old memories.
• Favorite Recipes – This is an instant moral booster. Having their favorite recipes on hand will cheer them up. If they are old enough, they can make these foods themselves to keep their minds off of negative thoughts.
• Miscellaneous – This is always a fallback section to use for organizing information for later use.

Author: Tess Pennington
Web Site: http://www.readynutrition.com/
Date: October 15th, 2009
Related Categories: Emergency Checklists

Related Reading:

• The G.O.O.D Survival Manuals: Every Family Should Have One
• Ready for the New Year: Prepping with Vigilance
• Family Emergency Plan Check List
• Child Safety: Keep Kids Safe With Emergency ID Cards
• Are You Ready Series: Emergency Medical Supply

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...list_15102009/

Garlic Consumption Linked To Lower Levels Of Cancer - related Toxins

March 8, 2010 by Personal Liberty News Desk

http://pictures.directnews.co.uk/liv...039582_300.jpgResults of a newly released study have suggested that garlic consumed in large quantities may serve as a natural remedy to help ward off cancer.

United States researchers have developed a urine test capable of measuring the extent of a potential carcinogenic process, and found that a decreased risk of cancer development was directly proportionate to an increased intake of garlic.

In the study, researchers from Ohio State University’s Comprehensive Cancer Center set out to measure garlic’s affect on the body’s level of cancer-causing agents known as nitrates. Groups of participants were treated with varying levels of garlic and then had their urine tested for toxins.

The results of the study showed that respondents who consumed garlic on a daily basis had lower concentrations of nitrate markers than did those who were given no garlic. Moreover, though the differences were slight, the highest consumption of the vegetable was associated with the lowest levels of toxins related to cancer development.

"The precise mechanism by which garlic and other compounds affect nitrosation is under extensive investigation, but is not clear at this time," said Earl Harrison, senior author of the study.

"What this research does suggest, however, is that garlic may play some role in inhibiting formation of these nitrogen-based toxic substances," he added.
http://feeds.directnews.co.uk/feedtr...temid=19649256

http://www.personalliberty.com/news/...xins-19649256/

Study: Vitamin D Supplementation Improves Mood In The Winter Months

March 8, 2010 by Personal Liberty News Desk

http://pictures.directnews.co.uk/liv...036254_300.jpgAccording to a recent study, a daily dose of vitamin D may help people in northern climates better combat the long winter.

Researchers from Loyola University’s Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing (MNSON) found that the nutrient can help lift mood during the winter months when days are short and access to sunlight is at a premium.

"Vitamin D deficiency continues to be a problem despite the nutrient’s widely reported health benefits," said Sue Penckofer, professor at MNSON. "[Northern] winters compound this issue when more people spend time away from sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D."

Loyola researchers plan to take their vitamin D study a step further by assessing whether supplementation with the nutrient can improve blood sugar and mood in women suffering from diabetes. They state that there is evidence to suggest that vitamin D may decrease insulin resistance, which has been linked to depression in previous studies.

It has been proven that women tend to have poorer blood sugar control and greater rates of anxiety than men with diabetes.

Recent studies have also found that vitamin D may provide protection from high blood pressure and several autoimmune diseases.
http://feeds.directnews.co.uk/feedtr...temid=19651924

http://www.personalliberty.com/news/...nths-19651924/

Pine Bark Extract Helps Counteract Kidney Damage

March 15, 2010 by Personal Liberty News Desk


http://pictures.directnews.co.uk/liv...051086_300.jpgResults of a newly released study suggest that the antioxidant pycnogenol, a plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, is capable of counteracting kidney damage caused by high blood pressure, decreasing urinary problems and improving blood flow to the kidneys.

In the study, researchers from the Gabriele D’Annunzio University in Italy divided 55 hypertensive patients who showed early signs of impaired kidney function into two groups. Each faction was treated with the anti-hypertensive medication Ramipril, with one of the groups also receiving pycnogenol. All patients included in the study had an average urinary protein level of 89 mg per 24-hour period, considerably surpassing the 30 mg measure that is associated with healthy kidney function.

After six months of follow-up, the researchers found that the average protein level decreased to 64 mg per day, while the pycnogenol group had a mean of only 39 mg per 24-hour period.

"While Ramipril represents an effective treatment for hypertension and its interrelated effects on kidney function, pycnogenol as an adjunct to the medication produced significantly greater results, particularly for kidney function restoration," concluded lead researcher Gianni Belcaro.

An earlier study by the same research team found that pycnogenol also improves circulation, reduces swelling and boosts visual acuity in diabetic patients.
http://feeds.directnews.co.uk/feedtr...temid=19662552

http://www.personalliberty.com/news/...mage-19662552/

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Are You Ready Series: Emergency Water Supply

Tess Pennington
Ready Nutrition
November 2009

We use water for everything. From cooking, cleaning the dishes, cleaning our bodies, brushing our teeth and for drinking. In the event of a natural emergency such as a hurricane or tornado, water can be interrupted for days, even weeks. Water is one of the first items to disappear off the store shelves when a disaster threatens. Usually, before, during and after a disaster, stores will not be able to keep water stocked due to the high demand. Without water to drink, dehydration sets in, the body starts shutting down and then … well it isn’t good. A human can die in a few days without any water. Having safe drinking water is a top priority when it comes to storing supplies in the event of an emergency.
Drinking water is the best way to keep the body hydrated. Caffeinated beverages such as coffees and teas only make the body want for more water. Carbonated beverages are also not a good idea to drink as they dehydrate the body. Potable water is water safe for human consumption. It is free of disease causing microorganisms, poisonous substances, minerals, organic matter, chemical, biological and radioactive substances.
How Much Water Do I Need?

Disaster officials suggest having a 3 day water supply and further recommends having 1 gallon of water per person per day.
Source – www.fema.org

Play it safe and buy 2 gallons per person. The extra water can always be used for other purposes. If there are children, nursing mothers, elderly people or pets in your care, more water should be appropriately accounted for. Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed, so take this into account as well. If medical emergencies arise, water would be needed as well. Using disposable cups, plates and utensils will cut down on using water for cleaning.
Safely Storing Emergency Water

Keep your emergency water supply safe. When storing water follow these tips:

• Keep emergency water in a cool, dark place in your home, each vehicle, and your workplace.
• It’s best to use bottled water. Use water before the expiration or “use-by” date stamped on the container.
• It’s possible to keep water in food-grade containers intended for water storage. Containers must be thoroughly washed, sanitized, and rinsed. Only store clean, ready-to-drink water. Tap water will probably need to be purified. Ask public health authorities or your water provider whether tap water should be used and how to treat it. Do not use milk or juice containers for storing water. Even if you try to thoroughly clean these plastic containers, left over sugars and proteins provide perfect places for bacteria to grow.
• Plastic soft drink containers can be used in a pinch. Clean and sanitize containers before they are used.

Source – www.cdc.gov

Protect Your Water Sources

If there are reports of broken water or sewage lines or if local authorities advise you there is a problem, steps should be taken to protect your water sources.
To close the incoming water source, locate the incoming valve and turn it to the closed position. Be sure you and other family members know how to perform this important procedure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFNbTIzjh-s&feature=player_embedded
How Do I Find More Water?

When water runs out, the race is on to find available and safe drinking water. There are places around the house where safe drinking water can be found.

Safe Sources

• Melted ice cubes
• Water drained from the water heater (if the water heater has not been damaged)
• Liquids from canned goods such as fruit or vegetable juices
• Water drained from pipes
• To use the water in your pipes, let air into the plumbing by turning on the faucet in your home at the highest level. A small amount of water will trickle out. Then obtain water from the lowest faucet in the home.
• To use the water in your hot-water tank, be sure the electricity or gas is off, and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve at the tank and turning on the hot water faucet. Refill the tank before turning the gas or electricity back on. If the gas is turned off, a professional will be needed to turn it back on.

Unsafe Sources

• Radiators
• Hot water boilers (home heating system)
• Water beds (fungicides added to the water or chemicals in the vinyl may make water unsafe to use)
• Water from the toilet bowl or flush tank
• Swimming pools and spas (chemicals used to kill germs are too concentrated for safe drinking but can be used for personal hygiene, cleaning, and related uses)

Source – www.fema.gov

Rain, clean snow, lakes, ponds and other natural water sources are another type of water source to find drinking water. However, the water must be treated in order to drink. The U.S. EPA states that 90% of the world’s natural water supply is contaminated. Drink water that you know is not contaminated. If any water looks suspicious, put it aside and drink the good water first. If the suspicious looking water is going to be used, it should be treated.
When to Treat Water

Water is only as safe as it’s source. When their is any doubt about the quality of water to drink, treat it. It is better to be safe than to have the possiblity of ingesting unsafe drinking water. Treating the water will eliminate any microorganisms and the possibiliy of contaminants in the water. Microorganisms such as protozoas, bacteria and viruses can make a person very ill. Some cases of water contamination have even caused death. If someone suspects they have ingested contaminated drinking water, some of the symptoms include:

• Severe Gas
• Diarreah
• Vommiting
• Severe Abdominal Cramps
• Headache
• Weakness Due to The Above Symptoms

Epidemics such as Cholera and Typhoid have begun as a result of contaminated drinking water. Making sure the water is safe is not only safe for the person consuming it, but also for the people in your local area.
There are three types of treatments for water:

Boiling
Boiling is the easist and safest method of treating water. Boil the water to a rolling boil for 1 full minute, keeping in mind that some water will evaporate. Let the water cool before drinking. Boiled water will taste better if you put oxygen back into it by pouring the water back and forth between two clean containers. This also will improve the taste of stored water.

Distillation
Distillation involves boiling water and then collecting only the vapor that condenses. The condensed vapor will not include salt or most other impurities. To distill, fill a pot halfway with water. Tie a cup to the handle on the pot’s lid so that the cup will hang right-side-up when the lid is upside-down (make sure the cup is not dangling into the water) and boil the water for 20 minutes. The water that drips from the lid into the cup is distilled.

Here are a few youtube videos that would be helpful in creating a distiller for water:
Homemade Water Disstiller
Solar Powered Water Disstiller
Source – www.fema.gov

Chemical Treatment
If boiling water is not a possibility, then chemical disinfection is advised for water purity.
Using Bleach

• Filter the water using a piece of cloth or coffee filter to remove solid particles.
• Bring it to a rolling boil for about one full minute.
• Let it cool at least 30 minutes. Water must be cool or the chlorine treatment described below will be useless.
• Add 16 drops of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water, or 8 drops per 2-liter bottle of water. Stir to mix. Sodium hypochlorite of the concentration of 5.25% to 6% should be the only active ingredient in the bleach. There should not be any added soap or fragrances. A major bleach manufacturer has also added Sodium Hydroxide as an active ingredient, which they state does not pose a health risk for water treatment. Make sure the bleach is fragrance free before it is used.
• Let stand 30 minutes.
• If it smells of chlorine. You can use it. If it does not smell of chlorine, add 16 more drops of chlorine bleach per gallon of water (or 8 drops per 2-liter bottle of water), let stand 30 minutes, and smell it again. If it smells of chlorine, you can use it. If it does not smell of chlorine, discard it and find another source of water.

Iodine tablets
Iodine must be stored in a dark container so that sunlight does not ruin the tablets. Iodine has been shown to be more effective than chlorine treatments and inactivate Giardia. Follow the recommended instructions suggested by the manufacturer. Beware, some people are allergic to iodine and would not be able to use this form of water purification. Persons with thyroid problems or on lithum, women over fifty, and pregnant women should consult their physician prior to using iodine for purification. Also, some people who are allergic to shellfish are also allergic to iodine. If someone cannot use iodine, use another method. Camping Trick: If a person adds a Vitamin C tablet to the water, the choline taste vanishes. Make sure the purification treatment has finished before adding the Vitamin C.
Chlorine tablets
Chlorine can be used for persons with iodine allergies or restrictions. Follow the instructions recommended by the manufacturer. Chlorine can be used for persons with iodine allergies or restrictions. Camping Trick: If a person adds a Vitamin C tablet to the water, the choline taste vanishes. Make sure the purification treatment has finished before adding the Vitamin C.
Micropur tablets
They are the only disinfection system effective against viruses, bacteria, cryptosporidium, and Giardia. Follow the instuctions recommended by the manufacturer. These tablets have no residual chemical taste. 1 tablet is used to purify 1 quart of water.

Wells and Aquifers

If there is time before the emergency disaster, attempt to plug or cap the well to reduce the potential for damage and contamination.
Water Wells – What To Do Before A Flood
After the disaster, go to the well or aquifer and check for thepossiblity of contamination and investigate the area to access the situation. Check the following:

• Surface water running into or collecting near the Well.
• A defective or improperly installed Well Casing, cover or pipe connection which would allow surface water, animals, insects or plant material to enter the Well. (Well casing not sealed).
• Nearby septic systems or manure piles, which as within 30M (100 ft) of the well.
• Openings in the well seal.
• Well casing not being deep enough.
• If any of these has occurred, treat any water that comes from the well.
• A source of contamination not related to the Well Construction.

Source – www.cdc.gov

Water Pumps and Filters

Anytime that water for the home has been interrupted, it is a good idea to use a good water pump to prevent from ingesting harmful parasites. If you are out in nature and need to purify water, try and find a running water source as opposed to a standing water source. Using a water purification tablets in conjunction with a water pump is a good way of making sure that water is potable and ready to drink. Water pumps have been known to not remove viruses and at times giardia cysts, therefore if at all possible, treat the water if there is any doubt.

Water pumps come in all shapes and sizes. The better the water pump, the better the water is not always the case. Here are some things to look for when purchasing a water filtration system.

• Find a filtration system that captures bacterias and have effective filters to capture cryptosporidium and giardia.
• Output or how long it takes to produce an amount of water and how how much physical effort is involved from pumping.
• Try and find a filter that can attach directly to your bottle.

Read about reviews of the different types of water filters to find the best one that fits your needs.

Water is essential to maintaining health and body regulation. Emergency experts suggest having a 3 day water supply in the case of an emergency. There may be times when the emergencies last longer than three days, so plan accordingly. Keep water stored in a dark area in food grade containers. Have a list of water sources in the home that can be used in the event that more safe water is needed. Using the three types of water treatment (boiling, distilling or chemically treating) can assist in eliminating any harmful organisms, bacterias or viruses. Treat any outside water source as if it is unsafe. Using a water pump or water filter can treat the water effectively to make it a safer water source. If these water suggestions are used appropriately, you and your family will have “some quality H2O.”

http://readynutrition.com/resources/...pply_16112009/

AirborneSapper7, the last several posts have excellent supply lists for varying specifics.

Thank you.

Psalm 91