As you look around, you are aware that electricity and electronic devices have made permanent changes in how we all live. It is one thing to say you can do without electricity, and then actually be able to achieve that goal.
In fact, many people that lose access to electricity for one reason or another either wind up extremely sick or dead in a matter of weeks. No matter whether they are unable to refrigerate foods or keep the house warm, surviving without electricity may not be as easy as it looks.
Since an EMP will disrupt both electrical power distribution and ruin devices that use it, the wise prepper will do everything possible to prepare for an EMP blast.
There are two basic ways that electronics will be damaged by an EMP. Protecting them from an EMP means protecting them from both of these potential sources of damage.
Direct EMP radiation from E1 & E2 – The first two pulses of the EMP will send massive amounts of electrical energy into the atmosphere, where it will be attracted to anything metal, like wires. This will enter electronics, burning out circuitry. But the key here is the wires, which act as an antenna, capturing that electric energy. Devices which don’t have wires attached to them are less likely to be damaged.
Voltage surge from E3 – The third pulse will affect the Earth’s electromagnetic field, which will end up causing a massive voltage surge in power lines. Any electronic device which is plugged into your home’s electrical current will receive this surge, blowing through any surge protectors you might have and overloading the device’s electronics.
With all those risks in mind, it only makes sense to be prepared for the potential risk of an EMP attack. While it may never come, that’s not a chance we can afford to take. So here are some new ideas of how you can protect yourself from an EMP.
EMP Protective Phone Case
A number of companies are now manufacturing EMP protective phone cases. These cases are essentially a portable Faraday Cage, just the right size for your phone. The case has the necessary metal shielding hidden away inside the cover, making it portable protection that’s not particularly obvious or obtrusive to your day-to-day life.
The one problem with these cases is that they will cut down your signal somewhat, due to the shielding. You may find yourself missing some calls, especially if you are at the edge of a cell’s coverage area and you don’t have a strong signal. To mitigate against this, be sure to use one that fits your phone well. If it is too big, it is more likely to cover too much of your antenna.
Most people use laptop computers today, rather than desktop computers. This is advantageous, as you can buy EMP protective covers for laptop computers. These cases won’t protect your laptop if the case is open and you are using it, nor can they protect it from the voltage surge; but when the laptop is closed up and not in use, as well as not plugged in, it will be protected.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth devices are naturally protected from EMP, because they don’t have electrical connections attached to them, bringing in the E1 & E2 pulses. Nor are they going to receive the voltage surge caused by the E3. Even if they are plugged into recharge, the E3 pulse will probably destroy the charger, which will prevent it from reaching the Bluetooth device.
The advantage here is that buying Bluetooth devices, especially small ones, provides you with a level of protection that you wouldn’t otherwise have. Even if those devices are in operation during the EMP, they are likely to continue working. The trick then will be charging them.
Related: A Gold Storm Is Coming(Even the most prepared Americans will be blindsided by what’s about to happen.)
Solar Panels
Most people don’t know it, but solar panels are naturally resistant to EMP. While the EMP will cause minor damage to them, it will only reduce their output by about five percent. Considering that solar panel systems are already designed with a buffer to account for inefficiencies and cloudy days, you should be able to use your solar panels more or less like normal.
The problem will be in using the power coming from the solar panels. This normally flows through a solar charge controller, then on to charge a battery backup system. The power can then be drawn out of the batteries directly or run through a voltage inverter to turn it into a house current for use.
The solar charge controller would definitely be destroyed by the EMP and the voltage inverter probably would as well. But the batteries should be able to ride out the EMP without damage. So, having a spare solar charge controller and voltage inverter would allow you to have your own power generation capability back up and running, within an hour after the EMP shuts off the electricity.
That replacement solar charge controller and voltage inverter should be stored in a place where they will be protected from the EMP, like a Faraday Cage. If you don’t have a Faraday Cage, they can be kept in any metal enclosure, such as a galvanized metal trash can, a steel filing cabinet, a metal toolbox, a metal cabinet, or even the trunk of your car. As long as it is in its packaging so that the device doesn’t touch the metal skin of where it is stored, it will be protected.
Related: A Gold Storm Is Coming(Even the most prepared Americans will be blindsided by what’s about to happen.)
Other Self-sufficiency and Preparedness solutions recommended for you:
The Lost Ways (The vital self-sufficiency lessons our great grand-fathers left us) Survival MD (Knowledge to survive any medical crisis situation) Backyard Liberty (Liberal’s hidden agenda: more than just your guns…) Alive After the Fall (Build yourself the only unlimited water source you’ll ever need) The Lost ways II (4 Important Forgotten Skills used by our Ancestors that can help you in any crisis) The Patriot Privacy Kit (Secure your privacy in just 10 simple steps)
As you look around, you are aware that electricity and electronic devices have made permanent changes in how we all live. It is one thing to say you can do
Everybody loves it, and everybody hates it – that’s what I like to call the Coca-Cola paradox. Even though the doctors scream at the top of their lungs that Coke’s as poisonous as arsenic, we cannot conceive a cozy family meal or a game night without at least one uncorked bottle of coke.
As far as I’m concerned, I can’t say I have any love for fizzy drinks, no matter their backgrounds. Of course, I would prefer a glass of freshly-squeezed lemon juice any time, but that doesn’t mean that I want to see the Coke factory burnt to the ground.
There’s no denial of the fact that people who drink too much Coca-Cola expose themselves to all manner of nasty diseases such as leukemia, thyroid cancer, morbid obesity, tooth decay, COPD, asthma, heart disease, and the list goes on and on. Still, it doesn’t mean that this type of beverage doesn’t have its uses. No, you’re not going to die if you drink a bottle of Coke every now and then, but don’t make it into a habit.
Anyway, since my dad’s been a big fan of Coke since the early ‘50s, I spend a lot of time doing research on this drink’s side effects in an attempt to convince him to tone it down a notch. Can’t say that I had too much success, but I did uncover something really interesting. Coke can be used in SHTF situations. Yup, you read that right. How? Stick around to find out.
Boost the efficiency of your compost
If your compost’s not good enough for the plants with munchies, add a bottle of Coca-Cola. It will increase the acidity of the compost and, at the same time, it will give those tiny organisms all the sugar they’ll need.
Get rid of dirt and stains from the toilet
If you don’t have anything else on hand to clean the toilet bowl, try using Coca-Cola. Pour half a liter in the toilet, wait 15 minutes, then flush the toilet a couple of times. There you have it! No more stains or smudges and, best of all, you didn’t even have to scrub it.
You really don’t have to cut away those precious locks if get gum stuck in them. Instead, soak them in a bowl with Coca-Cola for a couple of minutes. You can now remove the gum by hand.
Set a trap for pesky bugs
There’s nothing worse than having to dodge stinging insects like wasps or bees when you’re at the picnic. Want to take your revenge on them? Try this trick. Fill a small bowl with Coke and place it as far away as possible from your picnic area. Attracted by the sweet smell, the suckers will go for the Coke and leave you alone.
Get rid of congestion fast
Yes, I know that drinking too much Coke can lead to all kinds of intestinal mishaps, but, apparently, this stuff can be used to relieve congestion. Take a pan and add one can of coke and some water. Bring to a boil, wait a couple of minutes for that stuff to cool down a notch, and serve.
Related: A Gold Storm Is Coming(Even the most prepared Americans will be blindsided by what’s about to happen.)
Hack away windshield ice
Tired of having to wait around for the engine’s heat to melt away the ice on a windshield? Pour a bottle of Coke over it and wait to see what happens.
Make a diversionary device
If you need to get out of Dodge fast, it’s possible to create a diversionary device using a big bottle of Coke and a couple of Mento’s pills. Unscrew the cap, get a couple of Mento’s pills inside, put the cap back on, shake for 10 seconds, and throw.
No more nausea
If you feel like your stomach makes a loopty loop, open a can of Coke and let it go flat. Take on a teaspoon of that stuff every hour or so, and you’ll be up and kicking in no time.
Hack away the powdery corrosion on car battery’s terminals
Tired of seeing that white and blue stuff on your battery’s terminals every time you pop open the hood? Use Coca-Cola – pour a small amount over each terminal and wait. Finally, use a clean cloth to remove the smudges.
Make a grown bolt budge
If a rusty bolt’s preventing you from opening something, pour some Coca-Cola over it to unloosen it. By the way, this beverage works wonders on rusty screws and bolts. Don’t replace the rusty ones. Instead, dunk them in a bowl filled with Coke and let them soak overnight.
No more scorch marks on pots and pans
Did I tell you how much I hate scrubbing them pans after cooking? Well, I’m going to say it a thousand times if it’s necessary. Luckily, I have discovered a secret weapon – Coke. If there are too many burn marks on your pots and pans, pour some Coke inside, and let them soak overnight. Drain, wash, rinse, and you’re done.
No more ouchie from jellyfish stings
Remember the last time you went for a swim and ended up getting stung by those jellyfish? Well, if you feel like your skin’s about to melt, pour some coke over the sting site. Coke’s ingredients will neutralize the poison.
Kill slugs and snails
I really don’t have anything against slugs, snail,s or lummoxes. However, every time I see them munching on my veggies, I go berserk. If you’re having the same problem, use some coke on them. The acid inside America’s favorite fizzy drink will make them curl and die in agony.
Remove blood from clothes
Well, this might sound a little odd, but Coke’s very useful in removing blood stains from just about any type of clothing or fabric. Just so you know.
Coca-Cola for hiccups
Again with the hiccups? If holding your breath doesn’t solve the issue gargle some ice-cold Coca-Cola for a couple of seconds. Works like a charm.
That’s it for my ways of repurposing Coca-Cola. Think anything’s missing from the list? Head to the comments section and let me know.
Other Self-sufficiency and Preparedness solutions recommended for you:
The Lost Ways (The vital self-sufficiency lessons our great grand-fathers left us) Survival MD (Knowledge to survive any medical crisis situation) Backyard Liberty (Liberal’s hidden agenda: more than just your guns…) Alive After the Fall (Build yourself the only unlimited water source you’ll ever need) The Lost ways II (4 Important Forgotten Skills used by our Ancestors that can help you in any crisis) The Patriot Privacy Kit (Secure your privacy in just 10 simple steps)
Everybody loves it, and everybody hates it – that’s what I like to call the Coca-Cola paradox. Even though the doctors scream at the top of their lungs that Coke’s
Living outside of a car is never an ideal condition. In a perfect world, you would buy a truck, SUV, or a van, which you would change and customize to optimize the comfort and use of space. We do not live in a perfect universe, and your home on wheels will end up being whatever vehicle you are currently driving. So in the unfortunate event that you will be forced to call it ‘home’, what would you do to plan your current car? A lot of articles are written about living out of a car. This one aims to have a couple of tips and items that might not have crossed your mind to think about.
Preparation
Keeping your car well maintained and properly insured is number one on your to-do list. A simple tool kit, plus a set of spare fuses, a tire repair kit, at least one replacement bulb for each form of a bulb on your vehicle, a replacement fan belt, and spare oil and the air filter is a good idea.
If you have the space available, it is also not a bad idea to take a set of fluids for your vehicle.
Gather all the gear that you think you need to live out of your car, and then try it out for a night or two. It will show you what you have missed and what you do not need before you have to do it for real. Your bug-out bag might be all that you need to survive out of your car, depending on your ability level and attitude.
I like to think of it as setting up a car, but on a more permanent basis, for camping.
Your Number One Priority
Your number one priority must be safety. There are many dangers involving living in a car and you need to be prepared for them.
Whenever you sleep in an enclosed room, especially if you leave the engine idling, carbon monoxide is a concern. Battery-operated CO detectors and those that are specifically built for automobiles are on the market. A CO detector is invaluable if you plan on living in a car for some amount of time.
Since your car is now your home, if your car gets lost or stolen or you need to unexpectedly leave it you can keep all your valuables, essential papers, a change of clothes, toiletries, water, food, etc. in a backpack. This bag should be called your ‘bailout bag’ and it should be on your person and never left unattended while you are not in the car.
Lastly, when sleeping in a car in an urban area, you are vulnerable and it is important to protect yourself. First and foremost, as your first line of defense, it is always best practice to disengage from a threat. Know that you are driving a two-ton vehicle and your best course of action will probably always be to flee.
Second, note that even though your car is now your home, after all, it’s just ‘stuff’ and not worth protecting for serious bodily harm or death.
Choose the one where you keep breathing when given the choice between your life and your vehicle.
All this being said, you may be forced to protect your life, and you must choose strategies that are legal in your area and that you have the experience and temperament to perform successfully in that situation.
Storage
Open every door and your car’s trunk. Check for storage compartments for each door, inspect where the spare tire is, glove box, center console, and pockets for the bench. Plan out how you’re going to outfit your car once you have done this. Take into account how many people may also be staying with you.
In places like seatbacks and the pockets in the doors, keep items that you will need frequent access to. The bailout bag for every person should be small enough to fit on the floor between their legs.
The trunk will be the main area of storage and you need to think about organizational maximization. Buy containers that can be stacked on top of one another with tight-fitting lids. To minimize the dead space between and around them, try finding totes and containers that fit tightly together.
Label these containers with their contents, so you can easily and quickly identify what you are searching for. Keep similar objects or goods in the same containers that serve similar purposes (cooking, washing, entertainment, sanitation, clothes, etc.).
There is also a large amount of space in the area where the spare tire is, so you can store things that you do not often need ready access to. For tool kits and spare parts, this is a good spot.
Keeping It Comfortable
You’re going to find that sleeping in a car is not a lap of luxury unless you have a truck or van. A small backpacking tent and air mattress can make your sleep much easier were pitching a tent is legal.
Solar-powered fans are available that fit into a vehicle’s windshield. They’re going to expel the warm air and hopefully get the cool air in. It would also help to keep the interior of the car cool by using sunshades on the windshield.
Whenever it is possible, try to park in shaded areas. Otherwise, bring a tarp or two and some paracord and bungee cords to rig up some improvised shade while parking, or to create an outdoor area hidden by rain.
Number One for Survival
We need water to survive and it is important to have some on hand in your vehicle as well.
Fortunately, in urban areas, water is not difficult to come by so holding a 5-gallon jug with a spout in your trunk would be enough, given you have free access to water.
It is also a good idea to have a few reusable water bottles for each of the individuals staying with you in the car. For combining sports drinks, juices, protein shakes, etc., use one bottle for water and the other.
Cooking and Sanitation
For every meal, you can’t eat fast food, so you’re going to have to do some cooking. For most cars, a basic two-burner camp stove is compact enough and offers you the opportunity to cook a lot of meals. In your nearest camping supply shop, it is fairly easy to find pots and pans that nest together as well as bowls that fall flat, and cutlery.
Acquiring camping-designed cookware ensures it will be lightweight and portable.
Sanitation would be a concern. You can use your camp stove in a pinch to heat some water and to give yourself a sponge bath using soap and a washcloth. However, this is not a permanent solution, so you’re going to have to think about where in your area the most available showers and washrooms are.
Note that in areas like community centers and gyms, where one will usually be able to shower, COVID-19 has shut down or imposed limits. You can buy camp showers that are bags of water with attached showerheads, or you can wash in rivers or lakes. Another alternative is to rely on your social network to find some friends or family who will allow you to clean up using their washrooms.
Going to the bathroom at night is also a challenge that you need to remember in an urban setting while sleeping. One way to overcome this dilemma is to park outside a 24-hour Walmart or other stores that have washrooms open to the public. An empty gallon jug is another choice for storing liquid waste, making sure it is clearly labeled and securely sealed by the lid if this fails.
Navigation
In 2020, GPS was omnipresent and most of us used either the GPS onboard vehicle or one of the handheld devices. There is GPS inside every smartphone and Google Maps is good at taking you where you need to go.
But in your center console or glove box, you need to have some paper maps and a compass.
More importantly, you need to learn how to read a paper map and orient it. Although this sounds like an ancient navigation method, it allows you to understand how the various streets and neighborhoods connect to each other by getting a paper map or a map book. Your ability to get around the city will significantly increase after you’ve used a paper map for some time.
I come from a period before smartphones and recall how I can get around traffic issues with a look at a map book. You would be better at getting around a city or finding an address than Google will ever be with a little practice.
Power
We live in an electronic age and you will want alternative ways to charge your devices when parked, even though you will be living inside what is basically a two-ton generator.
On the car roof, large roll-out solar panels can be laid out to directly trickle charge battery packs or devices.
If your car is an older model and lacks USB charging ports, power inverters are available to plug into the 12V power outlet of your car that can provide hundreds of watts of power.
To save on data rates, locating public Wi-Fi is also something you’ll need to do. Such unlikely sites are organizations that serve the public, such as medical/dental offices, retail/grocery stores, coffee shops, etc to find some unsecured public Wi-Fi.
Some people enjoy living out of their vehicles, but calling a vehicle “home” for most of us is almost always the result of some kind of disaster. Although it is not convenient to drive around with a car that is always prepared to be home, it is never a bad thing to have totes, containers, and a bailout bag ready to fill up.
And I’m holding my car set for survival. This is something that I have been doing for years. My car’s trunk is a fully stocked emergency closet, with a wide array of items that remain there all the time, so I’m ready for anything that might come.
When you think about it, odds are relatively good that you won’t be at home when an SHTF situation happens. You’re going to be at work, at school, or in any of a hundred other things that consume our time. Yet you can be just about sure your car won’t be far from wherever you are. It makes your vehicle a perfect place to store an assortment of emergency supplies, just for those moments you need it.
And what sorts of things are you supposed to carry in your car trunk? Well, that list can get a bit wide:
Get Home Bag
A get-home bag is the starting point. It is a package for survival, with enough gear in it to make sure you can make it safely, no matter what.
It could involve doing so on foot when there is anything happening where the roads are blocked or the bridges down.
Speaking of bridges, if you’re working on the other side of the river from where you live, if the bridge is down, it may be hard to get home. Holding an inner tube in your car’s trunk might sound a little crazy, but if you have to cross the river and the bridge is down it will be handy.
I mix my Get Home Bag and my EDC pack, and my pack has plenty of other useful things in it, such as personal care products, paper clips and extra flashlight batteries. I’m trying to make it enough complete to take care of anything and everything that I may need, not only for SHTF, but the regular challenges that I face in my life.
One of My Most Used Items
Rain happens, just in case you didn’t notice it. How many times were you away from home when they began to pour? We always say we have to carry an umbrella with us, but that doesn’t mean we have to. Whether we have one umbrella, or we only have one, and it is never where we need it.
In both our cars, in the building, and in both the office of my wife and mine, I have umbrellas. That way, we always have one open, regardless of where we are. I keep a decent rain poncho in my car’s trunk. This is one of the things that are most used there.
Good Walking Shoes
When you’re dressing up in professional clothes at work, then you want to make sure you have some decent walking shoes in the car’s trunk. If you have to walk home from work, an old pair of tennis shoes or even loafers that you don’t even use anymore would make things much easier.
Clothes
Even in the summer, you will still have a jacket, hat, and gloves at your side. I change these with the seasons and make sure I still have something to use seasonally. I wear a hat in the summertime which provides good shade, while in the winter I have one which is better insulated.
I’m thinking of two different things when I say gloves in here. Clearly, if you live somewhere where it gets very cold you want to have some warm gloves or even mittens. So the other thing is to have some good work gloves, to cover your hands if you’re going to have to do anything like dig out your vehicle, whether it’s stuck, or move a branch of the tree that lays across the lane.
Protection
I carry a pistol every day, but I don’t leave it in my car unless you count the knife that’s next to the seat.
Yet I carry an extra box of ammunition in the car, just in the event that I find myself in a firefight situation. Chances of that are slim, but with all the turmoil going on in the world, I’m not willing to take this chance.
I would recommend carrying a gun in your vehicle if you do not carry concealed and the laws in the state you live in allow it. So if you do, get it a lockbox and bolt it down into the trunk. So someone who tries to steal your weapon has to break into the trunk and then into the lockbox.
Food
I always keep some food in my car, mainly high-energy foods and stuff like granola bars and jerky that will keep me going for a while. Although living for many days is possible without food, it is not pleasurable. Keeping some food in the car only makes it simpler if I’m trapped in it somewhere.
Extra Water
I guess it comes from owning old cars, but I’ve still got a few gallons of water in the trunk. It’s perfect for those occasions when the engine overheats, and when you overheat.
If you have some soap in your get-home bag, after changing a tire or dealing with some other problem, you can wash your hands with water.
Trauma First-aid Kit
You never know whether you could get hurt or run over someone else who is. I’ve kept a first aid emergency kit in my car for as long as I’ve been driving.
There were also occasions when I was the first on an accident scene, even when the incident was nothing more than a kid falling off their bicycle.
I would at least start taking care of them by getting a decent first aid kit in my trunk before the ambulance gets there.
When you are going to be carrying the trauma kit, of course, you need to know what to do with it. So take the time to watch some good videos of first aid on YouTube, or take the Red Cross, first-aid class.
A Great Tool to Have
This is a great tool and not too bad a weapon. I’ve got a machete attached to my BOB and I have one in my car’s trunk too. Mine has a blade on the back edge of a saw. Overall, a machete is more effective than a hatchet or has been used as a general survival weapon and will freak out anybody who tries to give you a difficult time.
Pry Bar
If the S really does hit the fan, you might find that you need to do some scavenging. Although this can be a little messy on the ethical and legal issues, life comes first.
Getting a pry bar could allow you to get into somewhere that will provide you with vital supplies for survival, or even get into somewhere so you can get a rainy night’s sleep.
I’m tempted to swap my pry bar with an infringement tool that could act as a walking stick, but I’m concerned about it. Besides that, I’m not sure if it’d be a little bit overkill. I don’t want to end up bringing so much gear that it’s slowing me down.
A Godsend Tool
If your car gets stuck, a lightweight, collapsible shovel might be a godsend. I’ve had opportunities to dig a car out of the snow, the sand, and the mud. Though it’s never enjoyable, it’s easier to leave the car there. The one I’ve got is a little big and heavy to bring in my BOB which is how it ended up in the car’s trunk.
Basic Mechanic’s Tools
I still have a set of tools in my car, so I can make repairs in case of an emergency. You need essentially box-end wrenches, a socket kit, screwdrivers, and a pair of pliers. For just that, you can do a lot of repairs.
Of course, you need to learn more than the tools, what to do with them. But even if you don’t, take them along. You never know who has the expertise that could come along but doesn’t have the resources.
Vehicle Liquids
Holding a few extra quarters of grease, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid into the trunk is also a smart idea. While you can test those frequently, from time to time we all forget. Our cars have an awful propensity to confuse us when we do. Carrying along those few bottles will spoil our cars’ surprise.
Headlamp
A good flashlight is a nice thing to have in your vehicle, but a good headlamp is an even better thing to have. You get light that way, thus keeping both hands free.
I would recommend that you go for one that gives you a wide angle of light and not just a spotlight. I would also suggest you buy the best one you can find. You would like the extra light when you’re trying to repair something in the dark of night.
But those lights that are very bright appear to go through the batteries, so make sure you have extra batteries on hand. As neither lithium nor alkaline batteries handle heat well, test your batteries regularly. They can go wrong and you won’t even know.
TP
While I was traveling a lot in Mexico I began to carry rolls of toilet paper and paper towels in the trunk of my car. You can’t always be sure to find TP in the bathroom, except though you do find a toilet to use. To have your own is clearly prudence. However, you can go just about anywhere you can find some privacy, if you have it.
I still bring the big, blue shop towels for paper towels. That started for repairs to emergency vehicles, but I find they’re great for a lot of things. They’re always great when I have to disinfect stuff, in the COVID-19 world we’re living in now.
Masks, Gloves & Booties
Finally, on this side of the COVID-19 pandemic onset, we can’t go anywhere, without being prepared to defend ourselves against infection. That’s what the paper towels disinfectant up there is for, and the masks, boots, and booties. I am one who still believes in wearing latex gloves in the grocery store, but I throw them away when I get out. Whether you are going to use disposable gloves or masks, you have to make sure that they are disposed of.
I buy Tyvek booties to put on my shoes too. As with the gloves, when I come out of the shop, that gives me something I can throw away. But if you find yourself caught in the mud and have your nice shoes on, they’re still useful.
And I’m holding my car set for survival. This is something that I have been doing for years. My car’s trunk is a fully stocked emergency closet, with a wide
I live in a small desert town. There is the Truckee river, but that is a big problem for us downstream.
During the Gold Rush in our area, our river water was indefinitely tainted with Mercury… not good for drinking. In addition, access is difficult and miles away.
While pondering the idea of survival if things go south, I had to think of creative and AFFORDABLE ways to store water, and not just a little water.
My thoughts are 3 months of water if things were bad. I started with the usual things most of us do.
100 gallons over months from the store.
Of course, this is fine for drinking and cooking, but at a gallon a day per person, and additional water for some bartering, it just will not be enough.
So, I filled my few 5-gallon jugs like most of us have.
I knew I had to have more water. There’s cleaning, dishes, and even bathing.
If we were able to even get to a water source, it could be very dirty. Water from puddles on a rare day might rain or snow, low-lying muddy areas, and drainage ditches would not be safe to drink.
My next step was to purchase a coffee machine (to distill it), heavy-duty pans, and a 5 Gallon Zero Water filter with extra filters that might last 3-6 months.
If my emergency power source could not operate a coffee pot, I would have to boil any water in a large pot on my grill.
I still did not feel I had enough, so I purchased a large water filter.
110 Gallons of water, with the ability to convert dirty water, was a plus. I had to store more.
I tried to look up those 55 Gallon Jugs for water storage. 150$ for just one container seemed a lot for my budget.
I went to my local hardware store and purchased several 34 Gallon Rubber Made cans for app. 15$ a piece.
There were another 90 Gallons of water with decent lids. I keep these in my garage to avoid freezing temperatures and possible theft.
Then I watched a YouTube video, one of those doom and gloom prophecies of imminent disaster. Fearful an apocalypse might last 3-6 months, I knew we would need thousands of gallons of water, not 200 gallons.
As I sat on my backyard patio, enjoying a sunny day, I pondered the problem. I tried to think of an affordable solution. Where would I access that kind of water? How would I store so much water without spending a fortune?
Just then one of the kids called out:
“Hey, Ma, look at me” as my son held his breathe and ducked into the water of the 3 x 10-foot pool I bought last year. I looked at the pool and I looked at the old pool box that was still used for odds and ends.
‘Holds 1074 Gallons of Water’ the box touted. I observed the 30$ pool cover off to the side, the filter that ran most days, and the bleach/shock treatment used every so often to keep it clean.
I quickly recalled watching ‘Hotel Rwanda’ about the civil war in Uganda in 1994. The Hotel used their pool water for cooking and feeding their guests during the long weeks/months of power outages due to the war.
There were my thousand gallons of water, right in front of me. I ran to the computer and bought a second one.
Yes, there are concerns. When the power goes out, the filter will not work, so someone would have to move the water around with the pool cleaner a few times a day.
You would have to continue to test the water with the little tester strips overtime to help decide if it was safer to drink if it came to that.
The water would stay clear for weeks, if not months if treated properly and covered. It might not be perfect, but if you had to use it for drinking you could boil it then filter it in the 5-gallon filter.
It would be ideal to not have the inflatable tops but to have the hard-sided pools but be grateful for what you have. Use what you can.
I know with the winter comes the chance of a freeze or two, guess will just handle that as it comes. Upon our freezes last year, the pools did not freeze and held up well.
Overall, I credit my resourcefulness and creativity in finding ways to come up with this much water. There could be other issues such as security, which I have also addressed in other way… best saved for another article.
All in all, this brings our water stores to 2,348 gallons of water to date.
Mama always said, ‘Look around you, be smart, and use what you have. You might surprise yourself.’ Got to love your Mom.
Some will agree, and others will have issues with my water storage, but I am on a tight budget, and this best suits my family’s needs just in case S does HTF any day soon.
I live in a small desert town. There is the Truckee river, but that is a big problem for us downstream.
During the Gold Rush in our area, our river water
After any SHTF scenario or major natural disaster, food is going to be one of the most vital things to have available. You won’t be able to rely on what’s in stores – panic buying or looting will probably have cleaned them all out unless the police or the military have secured them first. Either way, the goods in them won’t be available to you. Unless you already have a working smallholding it’s going to take time before you can grow your own, as well. If you want to get through the initial months after the event you’re going to need to have substantial food stocks to hand– ideally enough for at least a year, but even two or three months’ worth will buy you time to become self-sufficient.
The food you store needs to be nutritious enough to keep you healthy, and have enough caloric value that you’ll be able to work hard for long days without feeling fatigued – surviving isn’t an easy task. It also needs to have enough variety not to become monotonous, and stocking up on a few favorites will help keep your morale up in stressful circumstances.
Unfortunately, you can’t just store anything you like. If you don’t have your own generator power will be unreliable, so you can’t depend on anything that needs to be kept frozen or refrigerated. That rules out most modern ready meals. Tinned food is a better bet – much of it can be safely stored at room temperature for years – but some tinned goods will also deteriorate. That’s also an expensive way to build up a reserve, so for most people, the realistic option will be to stockpile some staples – mostly carbohydrates – and use foraged or grown items to supplement them.
Many bulk foods, like pasta, beans, or dry white rice, can be stored almost indefinitely. Others can’t; over time they will go stale or rancid, and they can also attract pests. Here is an introduction to the main goods that you either CAN’T store or should do so with a lot of caution.
#10 Baked Goods
Baked goods can’t be stored for more than a few days without freezing, so it’s tempting to stock up on enough flour to let you bake your own for a few years. Unfortunately, this isn’t a great idea. Flour can be stored for a while, but it isn’t viable as a long-term option. Wheat flour will only last around eight months before deteriorating badly. Refined flour does a bit better, but even then it can only really be kept for around two years.
The major problem with flour is infestation by psocids, or booklice, which are tiny black or brown insects. Once the flour has been opened it will quickly attract these pests, and once they get in they’ll multiply quickly. To deter them always store flour in sealed airtight containers, and make sure it’s absolutely dry. Flour usually comes in paper packages, and psocids are well known for their ability to get through paper. If you want to store a few months’ supplies of flour then seal the bags inside plastic ones – if you can vacuum-pack them that’s even better – then store those in a plastic bin with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the area around the store clean and sweep up any spilled flour immediately (don’t mop it) to avoid attracting psocids. Never mix old and new flour.
If the SHTF you can’t rely on having more than two years’ supply of flour, why not store grain instead? This is protected by its natural husks, so it’s much more resistant to insects. Mice and rats can be a problem, though, so again pack wheat or barley in plastic bags and store them in a bin. Rats can chew through plastic – consider a thoroughly cleaned steel trash can. Another option is to buy flour and bake it into hardtack. You will find plenty of recipes for this traditional military and seafaring food. It’s extremely simple to make – just flour, water, and a pinch of salt – and if you keep it dry it will last for years.
#9 Canned Bread
There’s a popular recent trend for baking home-canned bread and cakes. These are simple to make; usually, you pour batter into Mason jars, bake them in the oven, then seal the jar and cool it. That creates a partial vacuum inside the jar, which will preserve the contents for a while. Canned baked goods, especially cakes, are often given as Christmas or birthday gifts, and that’s usually not a problem. However, a lot of people also say that they can be stored for up to a year; some claim they can be stored indefinitely.
It might sound tempting, but this is a really bad idea. The problem is a bacterium, Clostridium botulinum. This organism grows from tough spores that are found almost everywhere but will only grow in certain conditions. It thrives in moist, nutrient-rich environments with little or no oxygen – and unfortunately, the baking and canning process creates an environment that’s just about perfect for it. As the bacteria grow they produce a toxin, commonly known as botox, that can be lethal when it contaminates food.
There is no guaranteed way to make Botulinus-free canned bread at home. The spores are heat-resistant enough that baking won’t kill them, and although some scientists have developed bread recipes that are designed to prevent the bacteria from growing it’s just too easy to get it wrong. Canned bread is fine as a gift or treats that will be eaten within a few days, but it should never be stored long-term. It is definitely not safe, and the consequences can be deadly. In a survival situation, botox poisoning is untreatable. Don’t risk it.
#8 Canned Tomatoes
Most canned foods can be stored for a long time – often pretty much indefinitely. Tomatoes are one of the exceptions. The problem is the juice, which over time will attack the can. When you hear people complain about issues storing canned foods, a lot of the time it’s going to be a tomato product. Possible problems include bulged or leaking cans and even split seams.
Even if the can looks fine and there are no visible leaks it could have tiny perforations that mean it’s no longer airtight – and so it’s no longer safe. If you open any can of a tomato product and it’s discolored or has an unusual smell, don’t risk it – throw it out. Few preppers can resist keeping some canned tomatoes because they’re so versatile but don’t keep more than about six months’ worth and make sure you rotate your stock regularly.
#7 Canned Fat Meat (some)
There are risks in storing any kind of meat because it can host so many bacteria and parasites; canned varieties are among the safer ones but there are still limits. Meat contains fat, and fat is made up of acids; the contents can be acidic enough to damage the can. The quality will also go downhill after a while, so even if it’s still safe it won’t be very appetizing.
Canned tuna will also deteriorate – it tends to become mushy after long storage. Other canned foods are usually safe to keep for several years at least; texture and flavor may deteriorate, but they should stay edible. For best results keep cans in a dark, dry place with a constant cool temperature. Avoid uninsulated attics or garages, as these often have dramatic temperature changes. Basements are ideal as long as they don’t have a dampness problem. Damp conditions will eventually corrode cans, and this can let air in long before there are any visible leaks.
#6 Homemade Jerky
Compact dehydrators are becoming popular and a lot of preppers now have them. They’re a great way to make tasty and healthy fruit snacks, and of course, they’re a Godsend to any jerky fans. Commercial jerky is expensive, but you can make your own from cheap cuts of beef and it tastes just as good. Unfortunately, it isn’t as safe to store. Commercially made jerky is processed in industrial dehydrators that let the moisture content be very precisely controlled. Home models aren’t as predictable – even the humidity in your kitchen can affect the moisture content of the finished product. Homemade jerky is pretty safe for normal consumption, but if you store it for months or years there’s a risk from any bacteria that survived the drying process.
If you’re determined to store homemade jerky, vacuum pack it and include a silica gel sachet with each batch to soak up any excess moisture.
#5 Graham Crackers
These seem like a simple, trouble-free items to store, but they’re not – they develop a rancid taste over time. Don’t rely on them staying tasty for more than a year. You can extend that another year or two by repackaging them in vacuum-sealed packages, or in an airtight container with oxygen absorbers.
Long-term, a better idea is to have the ingredients to make your own graham crackers. It isn’t hard and you can find plenty of recipes online.
Many other crackers are also bad choices for long-term storage. Unless you take a lot of care to seal them in an airtight package they tend to go soft and lose their texture. Many also pick up a stale, unpleasant taste. It’s fine to have a few boxes of crackers in your SHTF stash but make sure you rotate through them regularly. Saltines are an example – these won’t stay fresh for more than about six months.
#4 Eggs
Eggs keep a lot better than most people realize; even if you don’t refrigerate them they still last for a week or more, and in the fridge, you can keep them for three weeks or so. Few people would seriously consider adding them to a long-term food store, though. Then again, there are some who believe it’s possible. Spend a lot of time around other preppers and somebody’s most likely going to tell you that, properly prepared, eggs can be kept good for months, or even years. Usually, two methods are suggested:
Dipping the eggs in petroleum jelly
Dunking them briefly in boiling water
The idea behind both of them is that they will seal the inside of the egg from any bacteria that could get in. This is not the case, and neither of these methods will extend the storage life of an egg. If you want to add eggs to your emergency food stash go for the powdered kind. They’re less flexible, and a bit less appetizing, but unlike fresh eggs, they can be stored safely for longer than a couple of weeks.
#3 Breakfast Cereals
The packaging on these isn’t sturdy or airtight enough for long-term storage. After a year or so they’ll soften and start to taste stale. If you’re looking for a breakfast carb option, consider oatmeal instead. It will last for years and it’s also a lot more nutritious. If you do decide to keep a supply of cereals don’t buy it in huge bulk boxes – once it’s opened the slow deterioration will speed up dramatically. Opt for standard-size packs that you can eat in a week or two.
#2 Butter
Butter will last a lot longer than most dairy products except hard cheeses, but it’s still not a good choice for long-term storage. Wrapped or home-canned butter should be completely avoided; commercially canned can be kept for a while, but be sure to rotate it regularly to avoid old cans turning rancid at the back of your shelf.
#1 Nut Oils
A lot of people think these are healthy alternatives to vegetable oil. They definitely produce tasty meals, but they don’t keep well. Avoid nut oils if you can.
Other cooking oils are generally safe for long-term storage, but some care is needed. Don’t buy large containers; once they’ve been opened the oil will begin to oxidize, which isn’t just bad for the flavor – it can produce dangerous chemicals when the affected oil is heated. Don’t try to save money by buying in bulk and then decanting to smaller bottles – you’ll also mix air in, and that will just oxidize it even faster. Instead, buy oils in standard bottles. That way it should be used by the time it starts to deteriorate too badly.
Some of the items on this list make planning your food storage awkward – flour is probably the worst because it’s so widely used. You can keep your carbohydrate intake up with other choices, though, with pasta and rice being favorites. If you have the skills and equipment to grind your own flour it’s possible to store large quantities of wheat, and this will stay edible for years (or more likely decades) as long as you protect it well from vermin.
Any food will last longer if it’s properly looked after; equally, they will all deteriorate more quickly if the storage conditions aren’t right. If there’s something you’re not sure about asking local preppers – they might be able to tell you (although some have their own ideas, so always get a couple more opinions before splashing out a few hundred dollars on foods you can’t store. Finally, use airtight outer packaging when you can to deter pests, and keep your food in the right conditions. Consider investing in vacuum-packing gear. Good luck!
After any SHTF scenario or major natural disaster, food is going to be one of the most vital things to have available. You won’t be able to rely on what’s
There’s a reason preppers and even just people who like a well-stocked pantry purchase canned goods. They hold up for a long time, years even. They’re generally easy to prepare, many items requiring no more preparation than a quick warming in order to make sure the food is free from harmful microorganisms. Cans also come ready to store, no extra prep needed to sock them away for long-term storage.
Plenty of staples like beans, soup, veggies, fruit, and pasta are commonly found in the average family’s pantry, and found in great quantities in preppers’ stores. Those staples would get boring quickly, though. If you’re looking to add some unique and exotic foods to your food storage for either variety in your diet or for trading, read on for a look at the following canned goods you didn’t know existed.
1. Bread
Canned bread is totally a thing, and it’s available in several different varieties. While it’s likely more practical to store ingredients to make your own bread for the long-term, canned bread could be a tasty, quick way to a full belly and to get some carbohydrates into your system. You can find Original and Raisin Brown Bread by B & M in many stores or online.
2. Butter
Would you miss butter if you suddenly didn’t have access to the supermarket? No big deal, you can get that canned, too. There are a few brands of canned butter available, and it’s rather expensive since it’s not canned in the US. However, it’d be a lovely treat in a SHTF situation, and fat is a crucial part of the diet. For a less expensive canned butter, opt for powdered butter, instead.
3. Pudding
Canned pudding is more often found in Europe, but you can find it in stores in the US, too, as any buffet or cafeteria worker attest. Whatever your favorite type of pudding, it’s likely available in a can.
4. Cake
A pudding in the European sense that refers more to a desert dish in general, you can get canned Spotted Dick made by Simpson’s. It’s essentially a sponge cake with spices and raisins. While it doesn’t quite fit into what we think of as a cake in everyday life, I bet it’d be an incredible birthday treat in a SHTF situation.
5. Bacon
Very few people don’t like bacon, so it’s great that Yoder makes it in a can for long-term storage. It’s salty, fatty, and flavorful, which makes it great for spicing up boring food made from more traditional prepper food items. You don’t need much of it to transform a pot of soup or some powdered eggs.
6. Cheese
While making your own cheese isn’t rocket science, there is a lot of actual science involved, and the raw materials needed may not be easy to come by. So, there’s canned cheese. While it’s not quite like what we think of as ‘real’ cheese, canned cheese has plenty of fat and flavor to be a worthwhile addition to your prepper’s pantry. Check out Kraft’s Prepared Pasteurized Cheddar cheese or Heinz’s Macaroni Cheese for reasonably priced options.
7. Hamburger
Generally, people think of canned hamburger being home-canned. However, it’s available in cans from both Yoders and Keystone. There are even pre-seasoned canned hamburger products available, like the taco meat by Yoders.
8. Whole Chicken
Canned whole chicken, like those available from Sweet Sue, are good for more than just the meat. When the entire chicken is canned, all the gelatin and fat is preserved, allowing you to make a fantastic chicken soup.
9. Sandwiches
Also known as the Candwich, these canned sandwiches will be available in several different flavors. They haven’t quite hit the open market yet, but they’re coming! They come in a can about the size of a soda can with a peel off top. They’re perfect for on-the-go eating.
10. Potato Salad
Who knew this traditional, delicious picnic side was available in a can? Canned potato salad would be a good way to add a little flavor into your preps, and it can be eaten warm or chilled, making it a more versatile side dish than you’d possibly realized.
11. Tamales
We’re talking whole tamales here. Simply heat these canned tamales up, maybe add some fresh veggies or canned cheese to them, and voila! You’ve created an entire meal by simply opening the can. These provide a ready-made meal in a solid form, which can have profound positive psychological impacts. While canned soup is great for filling you up and providing a decent balance, it’s simply not the most satisfying food out there.
12. Cheeseburger
Made in Switzerland, these rather expensive canned cheeseburgers aren’t very practical, but they’re a fun addition to your preps. You simply boil the whole can and open for a tasty (that’s subjective, of course) cheeseburger.
13. Escargot
Even if you don’t care much for fancy seafood, there are plenty of canned sea food items that could be great for bartering. Apart from escargot, you can find crab, lobster, and other shellfish canned for long-term storage.
14. Duck Confit
Popular in France, canned duck with fat doesn’t seem terribly popular in the US. However, the high fat content in this canned dish could prove to be helpful in a SHTF situation. It’s great for soups and stews, and it adds a sumptuous touch that you won’t often find in the world of canned goods.
Conclusion
Whatever you prepping goals, consider adding some non-conventional canned goods to your stores. Variety, after all, is the spice of life. We need a variety of foods to stay at our healthiest, and because of this, people generally want a bit of variety in their diet.
The humor factor that many of the above items bring to the table shouldn’t be discounted, either. Psychological health will be remarkable important if society collapses, as well, so attending to our psychological needs shouldn’t be overlooked. As is always the case with canned good storage, be sure you’re properly storing cans and rotating your stock as necessary.
Personally, I think that tallow is one of those things capable of making your stomach spin like a washing machine. I really don’t have anything against the stuff – Hell, I myself have used that stuff more than a few times to cook or to make emergency candles, but the very sight of it…sometimes… I’m only human, after all.
Now, personal feeling aside, tallow or grease obtained by cooking suet, which is the fatty tissue surrounding the organs of various animals, is one of those survival items that shouldn’t be missing from your household emergency kit. Yes, I know that you live in the big city and there’s at least one corner store around from where you can buy cooking oil, but tallow can do more than that. I usually keep around one or two kilos of pork tallow around the house in case, you know, I need to make stuff.
In remembering just how nasty the kitchen smelled when my grandma was preparing tallow, I thought it might be a good idea to share with you a couple of useful hints on how to use this stuff. So, without further ado, here are 28 ways you can use tallow in a shit hits the fan situation.
1. Cooking
Obviously, the first item on the list had to be a no-brainer. Yup, as disgusting as that stuff looks, it’s apparently better for deep frying than regular sunflower seed oil. I mostly use it to fry bacon or to prepare goulash in my cast-iron camping pot. It also goes well with other dishes like fish or pork chops. A friend of mine uses tallow to can pork meat. The process is more or less similar to brining. However, in this case, the salter water’s replaced by melted tallow. Give it a go and see how you like it.
2. Enhanced sharpening
In the olden days, blacksmiths used to dip the newly-forged blades into pork or even dog tallow in order to hasten the sharpening process. Moreover, knife blades coated in a very thin layer of pork tallow stay sharper longer compared to those that are, let’s say, dry-sharpened.
3. Gun maintenance
Long before gun grease became available, soldiers would oil their weapons with tallow. By the way, it’s tallow that led to the Indian revolt, which drove the East India Company out of the country. During the British dominion, Indian regulars were conscripted in order to serve Her Majesty’s interests in the Indies. Apparently, one of the many reasons that led to the Indians turning against the English was the new Lee Enfield rifle. The new version of the gun used a tallow-coated cartridge, which was designed to protect the barrel. Since Indians abhor pork, they refused to handle the new rifles, which ultimately led to the 1857 Rebellion.
4. Bacteria buster
Tallow has strong anti-bacterial properties. In fact, our ancestors used this stuff in order to treat candida and yeast infections.
5. Solder away, soldier!
All out of flux for your soldering project? Not a problem. Dip the hot end of your soldering iron in tallow, and carry on.
6. Skincare
Yes, I know the idea of rubbing tallow on your skin seems out of a Hannibal Lecter movie or something, but it actually works. Sure, you won’t come off smelling like the proverbial rose garden, but at least your skin will be silky smooth.
7. Keeping away foul body odor
Now that summer’s around the bend; you will need something cheap and efficient at keeping that nasty armpit smell at bay. Sure, you can waste away that hard-earned cash on expensive beauty products, or you can try this simple recipe – melt some tallow and mix with one tablespoon of baking soda. Allow that stuff to harden and profit. I personally like to apply a fine layer after getting out of the shower. To prevent your armpits from smelling like a cooking lady’s kitchen, use a bit of scented oil.
8. Prevents diaper rash
If you ever run out of talcum powder after wiping your toddler’s behind, rub a little bit of tallow. It really works wonders on diaper rashes.
9. Putting some meat on your pets’ bones
Nowadays, pet food is as deficient in nutrients just like human food. If your pet needs to gain a little bit of weight, mixt its favorite wet food with tallow.
10. Great for a good night’s sleep
Have problems summoned the Sandman? Maybe it’s because your brain doesn’t have enough fats and amino acids to kickstart the so-called restorative sleep. How to fix this? Swallow a tablespoon of tallow each day. Yes, I know it sounds odd, but it really works (cured me of insomnia).
11. Neutralizes venom from insect bites
If you got stung by a wasp, hornet, or bee, rub a little bit of tallow on the sting site. The fat will draw out and neutralize the venom.
12. Hemorrhoids away!
Well, hemorrhoids are a pain in the ass, indeed. What’s worse is that no matter what cream you use, it will take a while for them to subside. If you ever find yourself in such a situation, you can replace your regular antibiotic cream with tallow. Yes, I know that rubbing grease in the spot where the sun doesn’t shine might come off like the intro of a really bad adult flick, but, hey, at least you can now sit on your tushy without that excruciating pain.
13. Lice slayer!
Head lice, because I don’t even want to consider the other variety, are damned hard to get rid of. Well, according to this old-world remedy, a lice-laden scalp can be cured using a mixture of apple cider vinegar and tallow.
14. Health super boost
Research has shown that patients who consume tallows on a regular basis are less likely to experience a heart condition compared to those who would rather stay away from that stuff. Furthermore, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, tallow plays a key role in preventing vascular dementia such as Alzheimer’s and some forms of blood cancer.
15. Making screwing fun again
No, not that kind of screwing (I don’t even think that stuff can be used for bouncy-bouncy). If a screw is moving too slow or not at all, try using a little bit of grease on the tip. By the way, you can also use a 50-50 tallow and cider mixture to remove rust from screws, bolts, nails, and even tools.
16. Great for lubricating moving parts
All out of WD 40? No problem. Just use a little bit of grease to get those moving parts, well, moving again, I guess.
17. Rocking the gentleman look
Did you know that tallow was used to make mustache wax? Yup, if you have a great pair of whiskers, use a little bit of pork tallow to make them shine. That stuff can also replace hair gel, although I wouldn’t advise it on account of the smell.
18. Doubles as shaving cream
If the lumberjack style is not your kind of gig, you can always use a bit of tallow should you ever run out of shaving cream? That thing will moisten the hair strand, making shaving a lot easier. I know that the best fresh-out-of-the-shower shave is the best practice, but I personally prefer this method when I’m on the run and don’t have the time to step into the shower.
19. Boost the efficiency of breast milk
According to researchers, tallow increases the number of nutrients normally found inside the mother’s milk. Baby breastfed will tallow-infused milk is better protected against allergies and infantile diseases. Furthermore, since tallow has powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring properties, it’s recommended for stretching marks aka the tell-tale signs of pregnancy.
20. Keep darkness at bay
Every problem in this world can be solved with a little illumination. In case you run out of emergency candles, lamp oil, or tac light batteries, you can make 6-hour candles using tallow. Check out my article on how to make emergency candles from bacon. The principle is the same.
21. Washy-washy
You know the saying: cleanliness is next to godliness. However, that may be a bit difficult if you run out of soap. Not to worry – tallow has been used for centuries in home soapmaking. Melt, boil, add some essential oils place in molds, allow to harden, and wash.
22. Leather care
Nice leather shoes! It would be a shame if something would happen to them. Well, nothing bad is going to happen to your leather shoes, jacket or pants if you rub some tallow on them. Apart from the fact that fat rejuvenates tanning products, it also adds a weatherproof layer.
23. Say bye-bye to cooking oil
If you ever get tired of using olive, sunflower, or palm tree oil for cooking, you can always replace it with tallow. Moreover, this stuff’s so good, that it will give your favorite pastries an entirely different taste.
24. Eco-friendly cars FTW!
It’s possible to make your vehicle even more eco-friendly by replacing the regular motor oil with a special tallow mixture. Motor oils made from tallow are biodegradable and boast the same performances as the regular variety.
25. No more allergies
The only thing I hate about spring is that white tree fuzz which makes me sneeze like there’s no tomorrow. I can’t say if it’s an allergy or simply the fact that my body doesn’t like fuzz, but in any case, I found out that tallow really helps. I have the same problem, but a little tallow inside each nostril before leaving the house. The fact will act as a filter and barrier. You’re welcome!
26. No more balding or brittle nails
There comes a time in a man’s life when he needs to swap the comb for a wet towel. Well, eventually, all those gorgeous locks of yours are going to fade away, but not right now. Now, if you have a similar issue, you should definitely consider applying a thin layer of tallow. You should do this after stepping out of the shower. The nutrients inside the tallow will stimulate hair growth. It also works wonders on brittle nails.
27. Better than butter
Although butter’s better than margarine, the docs recommend using tallow instead of regular butter. Yeah, I wouldn’t try to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with that stuff, but it tastes great when combined with smoked foods or dairy products. Careful with that stuff because it packs more fat than butter and margarine combined.
28. No more poison ivy itching
If you went a couple of rounds with poison ivy, rub some tallow over the area to get rid of the itching.
Well, that’s about it on ingenious ways to use tallow around the house and in a shit hits the fan situation. What’s your take on tallow? Hit the comments section and let me know.
Other Self-sufficiency and Preparedness solutions recommended for you:
The Lost Ways (The vital self-sufficiency lessons our great grand-fathers left us) Survival MD (Knowledge to survive any medical crisis situation) Backyard Liberty (Liberal’s hidden agenda: more than just your guns…) Alive After the Fall (Build yourself the only unlimited water source you’ll ever need) The Lost ways II (4 Important Forgotten Skills used by our Ancestors that can help you in any crisis) The Patriot Privacy Kit (Secure your privacy in just 10 simple steps)
Originating in the Eastern region of the Mediterranean, kale was cultivated as food as early as 2000 B.C. Not only was kale cultivated as a food source, but it was also considered to be medicinal. It was used for treating bowel conditions.
As a vegetable, kale is a member of the cabbage family as well as the mustard family, kale is even a part of the Brussel sprout family. With its hearty crisp earthy flavor, it offers up plenty of flavor and nutrients.
As a cruciferous vegetable, kale offers up plenty of delicious options and, since it is available in greens and purples, it also offers up some color in an otherwise boring meal.
Three Main Types Of Kale
There are actually three main types of kale. There is the most common variety of curly kale (also referred to as Scots kale), the curly green leaves are what you’ll find most often in the produce section of the grocery store.
This type of kale is just fine for your kale chips and dehydrating. It’s also great in salads and other meals. They have a pretty green shade to them and the leaves are very curly or ruffly. The center stem is hard and fibrous.
There is also the Lacinato or also called the dinosaur kale. This variety is a dark blue-green shade. It’s called dinosaur kale due to its scaly texture. It boasts longer flatter leaves that will remain very similar in texture after cooking. It’s not as bitter as its cousin the curly kale and is frequently used for making kale chips. It’s also an ideal addition to other meals and there is little taste difference other than the fact that this particular type of kale isn’t quite as bitter as the curly kale.
Red Russian Kale
Another favorite is Red Russian Kale. This is a flat-leaved variety that is very similar in shape to oak leaves. It boasts stalks that are slightly purple and the leaves of this particular variety have a reddish tinge. The stalks of this particular variety are fibrous and not typically eaten as frequently as they are rather chewy. It’s very similar to sorrel and boasts a hint of lemon and pepper. It’s still a great option for salads and sandwiches, however, it’s most frequently used as a garnish or in juice. It can also work for kale chips and to dehydrate if desired.
Kale is a cool season vegetable that is most often grown in the cooler winter months. It’s an ideal addition when there aren’t as many fruits and vegetables available. Winter kale is ideally cooked as the sugars in winter vegetables can turn to starch which makes them bitterer and more fibrous. Kale doesn’t require a whole lot of garden care. You can plant it and allow it to grow just as you would any other form of cabbage, Brussel sprouts, and lettuces that all do well in the cooler weather.
Related: 15 Vegetables You Can Plant In The Fall
There Are Many Great Nutrients in Kale
Kale has often been called one of the superfoods. Full of antioxidants, fiber, and a variety of other vitamins and minerals, just one cup of raw kale includes the following vitamins and minerals:
Vitamin A from beta-carotene
Vitamin K (helps with blood clotting)
Vitamin C
Vitamin B6
Manganese
Copper
Calcium
Potassium
Magnesium
Kale also contains 3 or more percent of the daily value of Vitamin B1 which is also called thiamin, Vitamin B2 or riboflavin, Vitamin B3 or niacin as well as phosphorus and iron. With a total caloric value of 33 and 6 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of protein, it’s perhaps one of the more perfect foods to include in your diet.
Containing a large portion of Omega 3 fatty acids and little other fat, kale is rich in nutrients and low in calories which makes it ideal for those who are watching their weight and are still hungry.
Benefits of Kale
Kale’s valuable nutrients help to support healthy hair, skin, and bones. They promote a healthier lifestyle and will go far in helping to build strong bones, healthy skin, and healthier hair.
Kale is full of fiber that can aid in digestion and improve cardiovascular health. Statistics show that a diet high in fiber can do wonders for the cardiovascular system as well as the digestive system.
Kale has more nutritional value than spinach. Kale can help to improve the blood and circulatory system.
Kale may help to enhance blood glucose control in those who are struggling with diabetes. This may make it easier to manage a healthy diet and avoid too much sugar.
Kale may lower the risk of some cancers.
Kale may help to lower higher blood pressure. For those who are seeking a more natural way to reduce their blood pressure, a diet rich in kale may go far to aid them in this endeavor.
Kale may help in the prevention and development of the breathing condition asthma.
Kale is high in potassium which may help it to lower the risk of many heart conditions and diseases.
Kale is delicious when added to salads and smoothies and can greatly boost the nutritional value of such foods.
Kale can aid in boosting well-being and the prevention of many health issues.
Kale is full of antioxidants as well as calcium, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K which can all aid in helping to boost the immune system.
Kale has chlorophyll which may aid in many health conditions. Chlorophyll can aid the body in helping it to flush out toxins and it can help to improve the cardiovascular system.
Kale is a rich source of iron which can help to prevent anemia. Iron also helps your blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. This helps to increase your red blood cells.
Kale can help to improve the minerals in a person’s body.
Kale can aid in the development of healthy cells throughout the body.
Kale has plenty of magnesium which is a vital mineral that many don’t get enough of. Magnesium may aid in the protection of diabetes type 2 as well as many heart conditions.
Kale, unlike spinach, is low in oxalates. Oxalates can prevent the body from absorbing minerals that it needs to maintain health.
Kale contains lutein which is excellent for eye health and the prevention of macular degeneration.
Kale has isothiocyanates which can help to detoxify the body and prevent tumors.
Serving Suggestions
Kale Chips
Step One:
Pick or purchase fresh kale. Rinse your freshly picked or purchased kale well and gently pat the kale dry with a paper towel or clean towel. Prepare your baking sheet or your dehydrator trays to place the kale chips on. A baking sheet should be oiled with olive oil.
Step Two:
Gently remove the leaves from the kale by holding the stem in one hand, and removing the leaves with your other hand. Toss out any yellowing or browning leaves and keep only the green or purple leaves. Once you’ve removed the leaves, you simply place them on either a baking sheet that’s been oiled with olive oil or onto a dehydrating tray.
Don’t overcrowd the kale. You want it to have plenty of olive oil on it and you want it to have plenty of room and not overlap.
Step Three:
Sprinkle the top of your kale with more olive oil taking care that all of the kale has been gently brushed with the olive oil. You may wish to toss the kale lightly around on the pan or tray ensuring that it’s completely covered in the oil.
If you prefer, you can use a different type of oil just make sure that it’s a healthy oil and that you coat the leaves fairly evenly, the oil helps the leaves to crisp up and it helps to adhere the seasonings to the leaves when you’re crisping them.
Step Four:
Season your kale with your favorite seasonings. We like pink Himalayan sea salt, a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of chili powder on our kale leaves, but you may prefer something different.
(Other suggested seasonings: Lime or citrus peel that is ground fine, cayenne pepper, pepper flakes, garlic salt, basil, curry, etc.).
Step Five:
Set your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit, or your dehydrator to the vegetable setting (on my Excalibur dehydrator this is 125 degrees Fahrenheit but you may have a different style of dehydrator so follow your dehydrator’s instructions).
Step Six:
Place your kale baking sheet into the oven or into your dehydrator and allow the kale to crisp. It takes anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes in the oven. Turn the kale gently and allow it to completely crisp on both sides.
Turn the oven off and allow it to sit until it’s all crisp. Oven temperatures often vary so use your best judgment and remember that it’s okay to leave your kale in the oven longer or even for a lesser amount of time to achieve your desired amount of crispness.
For dehydrators, check it after about 15 minutes. You won’t need to turn the kale in the dehydrator. In my dehydrator, at the setting for Vegetables and 125 degrees Fahrenheit it took my kale about an hour to make crispy kale chips.
Many people like the kale fresh out of the oven or dehydrator. Some people even like a fresh sprinkle of sea salt on the kale chips when they are removed from the oven or dehydrator.
If you have leftover kale after making chips; you can store your crisp kale chips in a plastic container with a lid. Kale chips are fragile and if you try to put them in a plastic zipper style bag they tend to crumble easily and become “kale dust”.
However, if you’re trying to sneak some nutrition into a meal and the kids tell you that they don’t like kale, this is an ideal way to go about it. Most kids won’t even know you’ve snuck some kale dust into their meals if you do it like this.
Kale chips are an excellent replacement for fat-laden potato chips if you’re trying to lose weight. Kale offers a variety of health benefits in comparison to potato chips. If you’re trying to lose weight, try replacing fatty potato chips with kale chips and see if you‘re not feeling healthier and losing some of that weight.
Kale, Sausage, Potato Soup
This is another kale favorite in my family and it’s really easy to make. Here’s our favorite recipe for this delicious soup:
1 pound of your favorite sausage (we like an Italian sausage but you can use any kind you like)
4 large sized potatoes or the equivalent amount in smaller potatoes
1 medium sweet onion chopped
1 clove garlic chopped
2 to 3 handfuls of kale, chopped (you can also use dehydrated kale for this or powdered kale as desired)
3 to 4 cups chicken stock (you can substitute plain water, or another kind of soup stock if you prefer)
1 Tablespoon of butter
Directions:
Brown sausage, onion, and garlic until sausage in a medium soup pan until the sausage is cooked through.
While the sausage is browning with the onions and garlic, peel potatoes and dice into bite-sized pieces. After the sausage, onion and garlic are browned add in the potatoes with just enough chicken stock (water or stock of your choice) to cover the potatoes and cook until the potatoes are cooked through and just tender.
If your soup is too thick, you can add in more chicken stock (water or stock of your choice) to thin it down a bit.
Toss in the kale and stir it into the soup gently. Add the butter to the top and allow the butter to melt while the kale simmers. If desired, you can add about 2/3’s of a cup of milk to this. Sometimes, we will take out about a cup of the soup and mash the potatoes and return them to the soup to thicken the soup. It all depends on our mood at the time.
Serve hot with some garlic toast and you have a healthy hearty meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of the crew.
Dehydrated Kale
If you prefer, you can prepare the kale as above for chips and leave out the seasonings. Store dehydrated kale in a plastic container, a glass jar with a lid, or a plastic zippered bag and add it to your meals to increase the nutritional value of your meals. It’s ideal when added to soups, stews, eggs, casseroles, sandwich spreads, fried potatoes, and anything else you can think of to add.
Dehydrated kale won’t overpower your meals if you just sneak in smaller amounts such as ½ to 1 cup per above-mentioned food item. Kale will greatly boost the nutritional value and help to nurture and improve health.
Add some dehydrated kale to your pizza sauce to add some great nutrition to your pizza.
Raw Kale is also ideal to tear up and put raw into salads.
You can use raw kale to replace lettuce on tacos or sandwiches.
Serve kale steamed as you would steamed spinach for a delicious side dish.
Saute kale with a bit of onion and bacon for a unique taste treat.
Add some kale to soups as they simmer on your stovetop or put some into a casserole.
Kale is a delicious addition to a smoothie or if you’re juicing. Simply add a handful or two of kale to the rest of your ingredients for a delicious and nutritious taste treat. Dehydrated kale can also be added in lieu of fresh kale.
Potential Health Risks Of Kale
As always, there are a few potential side effects of kale if you’re on certain medications or if you have specific medical conditions. Keep in mind that if you are on any medication, it’s always wise to check with your doctor or your pharmacist before you add kale to your diet.
There are a few health risks of kale if you’re on beta-blockers, for example, you’ll want to know that kale will increase the levels of potassium in the blood. Foods that are high in potassium should only be eaten in moderation if you’re taking any beta-blockers.
If you have a kidney condition too much potassium may be harmful as well. Many kidney conditions mean that the body can’t remove excess potassium from the body and this could lead to a fatal overload of potassium. Eating kale may increase the levels of potassium in such individuals so be sure to check with your doctor first if you have any kind of kidney condition.
Thanks to the large amount of Vitamin K in kale, which offers 1,062.1 mcg of Vitamin K per serving of kale. Kale can aid in the clotting of blood. People who are on blood thinners like Warfarin or even Coumadin, shouldn’t eat kale without first discussing the potential risks with their doctor or pharmacist.
If you’re feeling stomach upset or have digestive issues after eating kale, you may be eating too much of a good thing at a time. Try eating less fresh kale or adding less dehydrated kale into your foods, smoothies, or juices and see if you’re not feeling better.
How Different Regions Enjoy Kale
Kale is a perfect food and different countries enjoy kale served differently. Keep in mind that these are just a few examples of how other countries and regions enjoy Kale. There are many other great ways to enjoy kale out there.
North America: Kale is often served as chips, steamed, braised, and fresh in salads.
South America: Brazil uses Kale in a side dish that is a type of a stew called feijoada.
Africa: Boiled and served with coconut milk. It may also be served with ground peanuts, in cornmeal, and in rice dishes.
Europe: Many Europeans enjoy a traditional New Years’ Danish that boasts boiled ham, glazed potatoes, and a healthy serving of stewed kale.
Netherlands: Often served with smoked sausage and mashed potatoes with fried bacon and kale are boerenkoolstamppot.
Italy: Kale is often included in Tuscan foods and soups. Italy is famous for many things and their soups are often full of nutritious vegetables including kale. Many an Italian soup has kale floating in the delicious broth.
Denmark and Southwest Sweden: Kale is often served with ham at Christmas in these regions.
Scotland: Kale is frequently served in Scotland in a variety of ways. They have a term that if one is “off one’s kail” one is feeling too sick to eat.
Asia: Kale is frequently served in a variety of dishes in China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and South Korea. It’s frequently used in juices and called “green juice”. It’s a nice addition to stir fries as well as to other Asian dishes. It’s frequently added to meals in its dehydrated form to boost nutrition and flavor.
Kale is perhaps one of the most perfect foods. It’s low in calories; high in minerals and vitamins, and it offers plenty of fiber to the diet. It’s a delicious addition to many meals and there are endless ways to enjoy kale from kale chips, dehydrated kale, and fresh kale. If you’re looking for perfect heart-healthy food, you may wish to consider adding kale to your next meal.
If you’re not currently growing kale in your personal family garden, you can often find kale at Farmer’s markets, in organic grocery stores, in regular grocery stores, and in your neighbors’ garden.
In our area, some of the homesteads tend to do better for some vegetables over others, so we often trade produce and each homestead grows produce that does very well in their particular garden. We then trade the produce back and forth so that each homestead has plenty of fresh produce during the fall season.
Originating in the Eastern region of the Mediterranean, kale was cultivated as food as early as 2000 B.C. Not only was kale cultivated as a food source, but it was
Kit, gear, or whatever you like to call it. The equipment we buy to survive, protect, get home, bug out, etc. Some of us that have served in the military and had to use all kinds of gear for our jobs, realized some of it was excellent and some just didn’t work for us. So we either bought or improvised our gear or kit to ensure we had what worked for us. This article will discuss organizing your survival kit into levels more so than the specific contents. I will discuss each level in more detail in further articles.
When it comes to buying your kit, look at what works for you. Do not go and buy the latest and greatest because of a slick marketing campaign or trend. Always find the biggest bang for your buck. A word of caution, do research and read reviews of those who used and/or tested the gear. You do not want to buy cheap gear that won’t last, but you don’t also have to buy expensive gear that does not work for you. So it is a personal choice. I don’t buy just from a single brand, I own items from various manufacturers like:
HSGI taco pouches
TAG battle belt
5:11 backpacks
Duluth pants
Solomon hiking boots
Boker knives
SOG multi-tools, etc.
I research the items for the specific need I will use and in most cases look at the multipurpose use of the item. I also look for the compatibility of the brands with other brands for modularity. One note to make; be sure to check the fastex buckles on the items, not all brands use the same type of buckle, and make sure they are good for the weight/tension that will be placed on them. You don’t want to be moving through the Appalachians to your bug out location and have your chest rig fail and fall apart at the wrong moment. You will need to be ready to make some field repairs once you establish security. So always have some 550 cord, heavy-duty sewing needles, 100 MPH tape, and/or sturdy safety pins on hand.
When I plan out my survival kit or gear, I think of it in levels. Each level has a purpose and compliments the others. One level of kit has duplicate items as the others so you can resupply your lower level kits or it has more robust items that may weigh heavier and require more logistics. In each kit you need the basic sustainment items to build a fire, gather, carry and purify water, build a shelter, signal for help or link up, hunt or trap for food, fix things, and basic medical needs like trauma to colds. The higher the level of kit, the more you have at your disposal.
Level 1 Kit – Think of Every Day Carry (EDC)
Level 1 should be items that you will have on your person no matter what you are doing. Some items are a good knife (folder or fixed), Flashlight, Watch, Wrist compass, Lighter, 550-cord bracelet, Multi-tool, and/or Concealed carry firearm. So imagine walking around the mall with your family, what do you have on your person that can help in a crisis? Medical items can be a CAT tourniquet on your belt or in a pocket to a bandana for an improvised tourniquet. It would be hard to always have that IFAK level of TCCC gear on your person. There are some decent “Patrol” IFAK’s out there that are slim in design.
Level 2 Kit
Should be some kind of load bearing equipment. Like a chest rig, old style LBE, or battle belt (w or w/o suspenders). It is also your get home bag, since this bag is smaller than a bug out bag and only set up to “get you home” it will have supplemental items that are similar to your chest rig. So depending on your scenario, you might only have the GHB and not your chest rig. I will discuss more the GHB in another article.
On this level, you can have items that will augment your level 1 kit. Enable you to carry ammunition for your rifle and/or pistol to be readily available. You will have your Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) attached. You can also add more items for redundancy (2 is 1 and 1 is none). This kit can be kept in your vehicle, place of work, or at your residence.
Level 3 Kit
This kit should be a back pack of some type, about 4,000 to 6,000 cubic inches or 65 to 95 liters. This would be considered a week-long bag. A bug out bag should not only be “72 hrs.” you should have enough gear to last you 5-7 days depending on your skill sets, AOR, and proximity of your other levels of kit. This level 3 Kit is also used as your Bug out Bag, which will be discussed further in another article. Remember, Bugging Out refers to leaving your homestead to another location for an undetermined amount of time. Hopefully you have planned out your scenarios to ensure you have the mindset, skill sets, tactics and kit to make it to where you are going. This kit should be kept in your home, unless you plan on bugging out from your work location etc.
Level 4 Kit
This Kit should be several durable containers or bags that you can load into your vehicle. The containers could be pelican cases, action packers, military kit bags or other type of durable containers. They should not be too large to move by oneself. Your vehicle should be part of this level of kit. Since you can load more fuel, water and gear in and on your vehicle. Your GHB bag, that you take with you to work and trips will become a “bail out bag” if you have to retreat from your vehicle under duress. Level 4 should contain items that will aid you in moving longer distances to get to your destination. Ideally, it is located at your house to aid you if you need to bug out and move to your cabin in the Appalachians.
If you are departing from your house, load up your Level 3 Backpack and your level 2 GHB (now bail out bag) and/or Chest rig for additional augmentation depending on the situation. If you have to move on foot due to vehicle breakdown, then you have your Level 3 backpack, level 2 chest rig and GHB is you designed it to attach to your Level 3 BOB. But one thing to remember always make every attempt to stay with and repair your vehicle during a crisis. Your vehicle provides a lot of advantages but also has several disadvantages. It may give you a sense of security, noise, harder to hide, and mobility is restricted to where a vehicle can go.
As you can see, the levels of kit you have, augment and complement each other. Don’t forget your homestead should also have plenty of supplies. You could use this TTP and make your house your level 5. So depending on your scenario, you may not have all levels of kit with you. I normally have my Level 1 (EDC), Level 2 (GHB), and Level 4 (modified) with me whenever I drive my vehicle anywhere within my AOR. If I have to drive further like to another state or across the country, I add more items to my Level 4.
How to use your levels of kit
You should always use your kit from the highest to the lowest, Level 4 to Level 1. So you always have the critical gear on your person if you need to abandon the vehicle or your backpack. If you do use items form your level 1 or 2 use the higher levels to resupply those items. For example while I was in the military it was SOP that we drink out of our 2 QT canteens attached to our rucksacks before we drink out of our 1 QT canteens on our LBE/Chest rig. This way if we did a recon patrol without our rucksack we had full canteens or if we made contact and had to ditch/destroy our rucks we had full canteens.
Other self-sufficiency and preparedness solutions recommended for you:
Kit, gear, or whatever you like to call it. The equipment we buy to survive, protect, get home, bug out, etc. Some of us that have served in the military
One of the most forgotten areas of prepping is financial preparedness. It’s as if we all think that whenever the brown stuff hits the air movement device, all debt and other financial concerns will disappear. While that might be true in a few situations, like an EMP, it’s not something we can count on. We’re just as likely to be faced with a scenario that causes us all to lose our incomes, while still being stuck with the mortgage on our homes and the loans on our cars.
Planning our finances as preppers can be challenging. We are faced with the problem of planning for the same things our non-prepping friends and neighbors do, while also planning for any number of possible disasters. So we have to have a plan for retirement; a plan to survive short-term disasters and a plan for surviving a TEOTWAWKI event.
This makes investing a real challenge. The things most people invest in, stocks and money market accounts, can’t be relied on in a post-disaster world. For that matter, trusting in them in a normal world is a bit dicey, as the stock market can always crash. But that doesn’t eliminate the need for investing; just like everyone else in the world, we need to have our investments in order, both for the good times and for the bad.
This really means investing in such a way as to protect ourselves in the event of a disaster. If we do that, then our investments should carry us through the good times as well. What we need, in addition to our stockpile of supplies, are things that we can invest in, which won’t lose their value, even in a post-disaster world. May I suggest the following…
Gold & Silver
This one is obvious. Perhaps the most classic investment of all time is precious metals, specifically gold and silver. During times of financial crisis, these metals always increase in value, even when everything else is dropping in value. In addition, precious metals are what people are likely to return to when needing some sort of money to trade with. So, as long as you have them, you can do business.
If you want to learn more you can check out this book. It provides specific and essential wealth-protecting ideas, techniques, and strategies.
In this regard, silver is actually better than gold, as its value is less. So when it comes time to barter, you’re not dealing with a one-ounce gold coin, which has a huge value. That might be useful when trying to make a major purchase, but not when trying to buy food.
Land
When I’m talking about the land here, I’m not talking about the typical way of investing in land. What I’m referring to is the land your home is sitting on or land that you can use for homesteading. One of the best investments you can make, especially for surviving a financial collapse, is ensuring that you own your home. That way, it can’t be taken away from you.
Granted, it is hard to pay off your home and the land it sits on; but if you will make an additional payment of say $100 each month, that money will go directly towards the principal on the loan, not the interest. I don’t have the exact figures at hand, but check it out; that could cut your 30 year mortgage down to 15 years or so.
Food
As preppers, we’re already stockpiling food. But we need to realize that our food is an investment too. Even in normal times, the cost of food is rising faster than the inflation rate. So, that food will increase in value faster than a savings account. Of course, in a time of crisis, it will be invaluable.
A Cottage Industry Business
Many major disaster scenarios are serious enough that they affect the world in which we live, as well as the economy. Rather than just investing in things, think about investing in the skills, knowledge, and tools to make a go of it, if your current job falls apart. You don’t want an internet business here, but rather something that you do with your hands.
Repair businesses could be an excellent choice, as they do extremely well after a financial collapse. Many of the old trades would do well after the loss of the grid. Ideally, you want some sort of business that will provide an income after as many types of disasters as possible. Start with the skills you currently have and look at what might work well for you.
Alcohol
People will hang on to their vices, feeding them, more than they will hold on to their most basic needs. in this, I think that Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is wrong. People will feed their vices, even at the cost of their lives. That’s why alcoholics and drug addicts spend the money they need for food and heat to feed their addictions.
But you don’t have to be an alcoholic to want alcohol. People drink and use drugs to escape their problems. So in a time of severe problems, many will trade away the food they need, just to get a drink. This makes alcohol one of the most powerful barter goods there is.
Tobacco
Tobacco is like alcohol, in that it is a vice. People smoke to deal with stress and in a post-disaster world, there will be plenty of stress. Having a stock of tobacco on hand could be extremely valuable, perhaps even more so than silver.
I wouldn’t recommend investing in cigarettes, as they can go stale. Rather, invest in raw tobacco and rolling papers. If people want to smoke, they’ll learn to roll their own.
Coffee
There are even more coffee addicts in the world than there are alcoholics and smokers. If you want something that people are going to be lusting after, willing to trade just about anything away for, this might be the golden ticket. Just about anyone is going to want coffee.
Whole beans will store better than ground coffee, even if you are keeping them in airtight containers. That means having a grinder on hand as well so that you can grind their coffee for them.
Ammunition
Some have said that ammunition will become the common coin in a post-disaster world, especially in a post-EMP world. There will clearly be shortages, even with all the people who have already built stockpiles of ammo. Concentrate on calibers that are useful for hunting and self-defense. Probably the most popular caliber for trade will be the .22LR.
Gasoline
Gasoline is difficult, as it doesn’t store well for prolonged periods of time. The more volatile hydrocarbons tend to evaporate off and there is some oxidation of other components of the gasoline. Adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas can extend the life, but then only to about a year.
If you can store your gasoline in sealed metal containers, it will last longer than it will in plastic gas cans. I’ve kept gasoline in a sealed steel barrel for over a year, without a problem. And that was without adding fuel stabilizers to it. Even so, I would consider gasoline only a short-term investment, as it won’t last forever. You’ll want to cash in on this investment faster than others.
Toilet Paper
There have always been alternatives to toilet paper. In the pioneering days, they used corn cobs and the Sears & Roebuck catalog. But for those of us who have grown up accustomed to toilet paper, making that switch will be difficult. I’d say that it will be even more difficult for women.
This one is a bit of a gamble, but I think that toilet paper will become highly valuable in a post-disaster world. You just might want a few extra cases, over and above what your family is going to use, that is.
Seed
If it comes down to long-term survival after a TEOTWAWKI event, probably one of the most important things to own will be seeds. Not only will you need it, so that you can plant a large vegetable garden and grow food for yourself and your family, but everyone else will need it too. They’re also going to need your knowledge about gardening so that they can get their gardens going and feed their families.
This is probably only a short-term investment but could have big returns. I say it’s short-term because once they grow their own crops, they can harvest the seed as well. So you shouldn’t have people coming back to you for the next growing season, looking for more seeds.
That concludes my mission for the day. Let me know what you think. If you find the time. Or something to add.
Have a good one!
Other Self-sufficiency and Preparedness solutions recommended for you:
The Lost Ways (The vital self-sufficiency lessons our great grand-fathers left us) Survival MD (Knowledge to survive any medical crisis situation) Backyard Liberty (Liberal’s hidden agenda: more than just your guns…) Alive After the Fall (Build yourself the only unlimited water source you’ll ever need) The Lost ways II (4 Important Forgotten Skills used by our Ancestors that can help you in any crisis) The Patriot Privacy Kit (Secure your privacy in just 10 simple steps)
One of the most forgotten areas of prepping is financial preparedness. It’s as if we all think that whenever the brown stuff hits the air movement device, all debt and
Thanks to the media, prepping gets a bad reputation. Those who prep — collecting food, water, and equipment to prepare for the inevitable — are portrayed as paranoid at best and crazy at worst. When it comes down to it, though, prepping isn’t such a bad idea — it’s better to have it and not need it, as the old saying goes. You don’t even need a barn or a shed to start prepping. If you’ve got a garage, you’ve got everything you need. How can you turn your garage into the ultimate prepper storage unit?
Food — Start with at least 72 hours worth of shelf-stable food for each person in your household. Once you’ve got this established, you can start adding to your food storage
Water — The average adult needs a gallon of water per day, half for drinking and half for washing and other sanitation needs. Again, start with 72 hours, and then plan for long-term needs, with water filtration, sanitation, and storage
Fire building — Even if you’re not storing firewood, make sure you have everything you need to start a fire
First aid — Include medicine, first aid supplies, antibiotics — where available — and iodine tablets. The latter only becomes necessary in the event of a nuclear strike
Sanitation — Toilet paper, bleach, peroxide, and items for sanitation and waste disposal are necessary, especially in the event of infrastructure collapse
Other supplies — In the event of a pandemic, for example, you will need masks, respirators, and other personal protection equipment
Equipment — Gather generators and fuel, air compressors for powering tools, and other equipment that you might need to survive until the crisis is over and normality restored.
Now that you have a basic idea of what you need, where are you going to put it all? If you’re limited on space, storage can be tricky. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
First, Declutter
If you’re using your garage to store all the stuff you don’t have room for, your first step is decluttering. Go through your garage and separate everything into three piles: keep, sell and trash. Only keep things that are necessary, that will serve you in the future or that you can’t bear to part with. Anything you can sell, set aside for a yard sale. Anything you’re just hanging onto because you haven’t bothered to get rid of it can go in the trash.
This step has two purposes. First, it gives you more room to store your supplies. Second, you can use the money you make from your yard sale to purchase storage and supplies.
Buy and Prep Equipment
Heavy equipment can take up a lot of space, so it’s a good idea to purchase any equipment first and plan your storage around it.
Generators can help keep your equipment powered, as long as you have fuel. Look for a generator that can easily be stored when not in use but provides all your power requirements.
Air compressors can be useful as well — they can be used to power tools, refill tires and even clean, depending on the adapters you have for them. Make sure you’ve also got everything you need to maintain the compressor — tools, oil, and even repair manuals can be useful to keep your equipment running.
Use All Your Available Space
A decent supply of food, water, and other items will take up quite a bit of space, so the first thing you should do is look at your garage and see what kind of available space you actually have. Don’t just look at the garage itself — look under stairwells, in attics, and even in closets.
In the garage itself, you’ve got walls and even your ceiling that can be altered to use as storage — all while still allowing you to use your garage for its originally intended purpose, parking your car!
Areas that already have equipment in them can still be used for storage — put shelves and storage containers above your washer and dryer and under your sinks for your growing prepper supply without filling your house from floor to ceiling.
You can even store supplies, cash, and important papers in plain sight if you’re clever with how you store them.
Don’t Forget Your Bug-Out Bag
Having a supply of food and water at home is great, but if you’re not able to stay in your home, you might not be able to take all of it with you. Creating a bug-out kit can give you a few days of supplies if you have to pick up and bug out. It should contain everything you’ve collected in your prepping — food, water, medical supplies, communication equipment — in addition to cash, important papers, and anything else you can’t bear to leave behind.
Again you should have at least 72 hours of food and water for each person at your party. If carrying that much water is restrictive due to the weight, include water sterilization tablets or filter straws to protect you from any water contaminants in the water supply or in any natural water that you might find.
Give your bug-out bag its own special storage place in your garage. That way it’s on hand if you should ever need it. All you have to do is grab it, hop in your car and go.
Hopefully, you’ll never need your prepping supplies, but in the event that you do need them, it’s better to be prepared for any and all eventualities. It doesn’t matter if we’re facing a little hiccup or a full infrastructure collapse — having enough supplies could mean the difference between life and death. Even if you don’t opt for all the extra equipment, just having enough food and water and the ability to cook it can make all the difference.
Thanks to the media, prepping gets a bad reputation. Those who prep — collecting food, water, and equipment to prepare for the inevitable — are portrayed as paranoid at best
There were my thousand gallons of water, right in front of me. I ran to the computer and bought a second one.
