Category: Food

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Disaster – Horrific Death Tolls Soar In Rural Communities

Monumental Death Toll In Helpless Rural Communities

Preparing for a natural disaster involves several key steps to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones. If you need a good reason to prepare look at what is happening in Eastern Tennesee and Western North Carolina. These are areas filled with people who are historically far more self-reliant than most.

Here’s a comprehensive guide:

Create an Emergency Plan

  • Discuss with Family: Make sure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
  • Designate Meeting Places: Identify safe locations to meet if you get separated.
  • Establish Communication: Set up a way to contact each other, especially if you’re not together when a disaster strikes. Your phones will probably be useless.
  • Remember PACE; You must have more than one plan!
    • Primary
    • Alternate
    • Contingency
    • Emergency

Build an Emergency Kit

  • Essentials: Include water (two gallons per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications.
  • Personal Items: Include documents (IDs, insurance policies), cash, any special items for children or pets, and a full set of season-appropriate clothing and shoes for each member.
  • Tools: Pack a multi-tool, whistle, and maps of your area.

Stay Informed

  • Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts and warnings.
  • Emergency Services: Know how to contact local emergency services and shelters.

Prepare Your Home

  • Secure Heavy Items: Anchor heavy furniture and appliances to prevent them from tipping over.
  • Check Utilities: Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity in an emergency.
  • Reinforce Your Home: Consider reinforcing doors and windows if you live in a hurricane or flood zone.

Evacuation Plans

  • Know Your Routes: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and shelters.
  • Transportation: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and keep a full gas tank.

Stay Connected

  • Community Resources: Stay in touch with local organizations that can provide support during disasters.
  • Social Media: Follow local news and social media channels for updates and resources.
  • Radio: Get a solar or crank-powered radio, for old-fashioned wireless communication.

Practice Your Plan

  • Drills: Conduct regular drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do.

Mental Preparedness

  • Stay Calm: Prepare mentally by discussing the possibility of a disaster and how to handle it.
  • Resources: Know where to find emotional support after a disaster.

Post-Disaster Preparation

  • Recovery Resources: Familiarize yourself with local and national resources for disaster recovery, such as FEMA.

Consider Support Needs

  • Unique Needs: If you or your family member have support needs, plan accordingly, including medications, mobility aids, or other necessities.

Being proactive can significantly enhance your safety and preparedness during a natural disaster.

Review, Rehearse, Practice, and Train, one second after is too late!

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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Will You Empower With Skill Or Bring Weakness?

Will You Empower With Skill Or Bring Weakness?

I’m here to empower you with skills and knowledge! Whether it’s practical survival techniques, emotional resilience, or problem-solving strategies, my goal is to help you feel more prepared and capable. To be an effective member of your team and community you have to develop your skills first.

Various skills will be beneficial when an emergency strikes. As I have said before, “Skills are the easiest tool to carry!”. The more skills you have developed, the more of an asset you will be to your team and community.

Here are some essential skills to consider:

  • Basic Survival Skills: Understanding how to find food, purify water, and create shelter is crucial.
  • First Aid/Medical Skills: Knowing how to treat injuries and illnesses can save lives.
  • Self-Defense: Basic self-defense techniques and understanding situational awareness can protect you and your loved ones.
  • Firecraft: The ability to start and maintain a fire is vital for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help.
  • Navigation: Skills in reading maps, using a compass, and understanding natural navigation can help you find your way without GPS.
  • Food Preservation: Techniques like canning, drying, and smoking food can help you store supplies long-term.
  • Gardening/Farming: Knowing how to grow your food can be invaluable.
  • Mechanical Skills: Understanding basic repairs for vehicles and equipment can keep you mobile and functional.
  • Bartering and Negotiation: In a post-disaster scenario, trade could become essential, so honing these skills can be beneficial.
  • Communication: Learning to use radios or other non-standard communication methods can help you stay connected.
  • Mental Resilience: Emotional and psychological strength is key for navigating crises.
  • Community Building: Building relationships and networks can enhance support and resource sharing.

Investing time in these areas can significantly improve your readiness when faced with challenging situations.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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Disastrous Supply Chain Disruption What Do You Need?

Disastrous Supply Chain Disruption

When facing a disastrous supply chain disruption, being prepared is crucial. Prepare your home for a supply chain disruption to ensure you have essential supplies and a plan.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Identify Essential Supply Items

  • Food: Create a list of non-perishable foods, including canned goods, pasta, rice, and dried beans. Make sure to stock foods that you are accustomed to eating. Altering your diet drastically will bring new problems to your situation.
  • Hygiene Products: Stock up on toiletries like soap, toilet paper, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. Unscented baby wipes are an indispensable addition to your hygiene supplies.
  • Medical Supplies: Ensure you have a well-stocked first aid kit and any necessary prescription medications. Do not underestimate the importance of wound management supplies. Over-the-counter medications are often overlooked. Vitamin supplements as well. Most importantly, do you have the skills to deal with an injury?

Build a Supply Stockpile

  • Aim for a month’s supply of essentials. Focus on items that have a long shelf life.
  • Consider purchasing bulk items to save money and ensure you have enough.
  • Once you have a month’s supply, build it to three months.
  • Be sure to store your supplies in a cool dry protected area. Preferably temperature controlled.

Emergency Kit

  • First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers, and personal medications.
  • Flashlight and Batteries: A reliable flashlight (or headlamp) with extra batteries for visibility and signaling in low-light conditions.
  • Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: Useful for many tasks, including repairs and emergencies.
  • Blankets or Emergency Mylar Space Blankets: To keep warm in cold weather. Space blankets are compact and effective.
  • Fire Extinguisher: A small, fire extinguisher to handle small fires.
  • Water and Non-Perishable Food: At least a gallon of water per person per day for at least a week and high-energy snacks (like granola bars) for emergencies.
  • Extra Clothing and Personal Items: Warm clothing, gloves, and a hat, especially for cold weather. Similarly, include a pair of sturdy shoes or boots with socks.
  • Portable Phone Charger: A backup power source to keep your phone charged.

Stay Informed

  • Follow local news and updates about supply chain issues that affect your area.
  • Sign up for alerts from local authorities regarding emergencies.

Establish Communication Plans

  • Create a list of emergency contacts and ensure all family members have it.
  • Discuss what to do in case of a disruption and how to stay in touch.

Local Resources

  • Identify local stores, farmers’ markets, or co-ops that can provide fresh food and supplies.
  • Build relationships with local suppliers to secure access to goods.

Plan for Pets Supplies

  • Stock up on pet food and any necessary supplies, including medications.

Prepare for Power Outages

  • Keep extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, and any necessary charging devices handy.
  • Consider investing in a generator if feasible.

Regularly Review and Rotate Supplies

  • Check your supplies periodically: Ensure they’re still usable and within expiration dates.
  • Rotate Supplies: Use older items first to prevent waste.

Practice Good Financial Management

  • Keep some cash on hand: In case electronic payment systems fail during disruptions.

Collaborate with Neighbors

  • Form a community group: Share resources and information, enhancing collective preparedness.

Being proactive and organized can significantly ease the stress of any supply chain disruptions. Being well-prepared can make a significant difference during disruptions.

By preparing your home in these ways, you can help ensure your family is ready to face potential supply chain challenges. If you want more specific advice on any area, please ask!

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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Grid Down – What Will You Need To Be Successful?

Grid Down

Being prepared for a grid-down scenario can enhance your resilience and self-sufficiency. Do you have any specific resources or skills that you think will help? What specific concerns do you have about such a situation?

If the grid is down, having the right tools and resources will make a significant difference. Here’s a list of essential tools and resources you should consider:

Essential Tools

Hand Tools:

  • Multi-tool: Versatile for various tasks.
  • Hammers, screwdrivers, and pliers: For repairs and construction.
  • Shovels and spades: Useful for gardening and digging.

Cooking Tools:

  • Cast iron cookware: Durable and effective for cooking over open flames.
  • Camping stove: Portable cooking option (with fuel).
  • Manual can opener: For accessing canned goods.

Gardening Tools:

  • Hand trowels and pruners: For planting and maintaining a garden.
  • Rakes and hoes: For soil preparation and weed control.

Cleaning Tools:

  • Broom, dustpan, and mop: For maintaining a clean living space.
  • Buckets: Versatile for cleaning, collecting water, or storage.

Emergency Tools:

  • First aid kit: Comprehensive supplies for medical emergencies.
  • Fire extinguisher: For safety against fires.
  • Emergency whistle: For signaling in case of emergencies.

Grid Down Resources for Food and Water

Food Storage:

  • Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers: For long-term food preservation.
  • Sealable containers: To store grains and other bulk foods.

Water Purification:

  • Water filters: Portable filters (like LifeStraw) or larger systems.
  • Purification tablets: For treating water from uncertain sources.

Gardening Supplies:

  • Seeds: Heirloom or non-GMO seeds for growing food.
  • Compost bins: For creating nutrient-rich soil.

Communication and Information

Radio:

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: For news and emergency updates.

Maps and Guides:

  • Local maps: For navigation without GPS.
  • Survival guides: Books on foraging, first aid, and homesteading.

Personal Safety and Hygiene

Personal Protective Equipment:

  • Gloves: For gardening, cleaning, or protection during repairs.
  • Masks: For dust or smoke protection.

Hygiene Supplies:

  • Biodegradable soap: For cleaning without modern plumbing.
  • Sanitation supplies: Toilet paper, sanitary napkins, and wipes.

Financial Preparedness

Cash:

  • Keep a supply of cash in small denominations for transactions.

Important Documents:

  • Store copies of identification and insurance documents in a waterproof container.

Community and Networking

Local Resources:

  • Knowledge of nearby farms, water sources, and community support groups.

Skills Exchange:

  • Networking with neighbors for skill-sharing (gardening, repairs, etc.).

Entertainment and Morale

Books and Games:

  • Board games, card games, and books to keep spirits up during downtime.

Musical Instruments:

  • Simple instruments for entertainment and morale.

Power Generation Options

Solar Power:

  • Solar Panels: Portable or stationary panels to harness sunlight.
  • Solar Generators: All-in-one units combining solar panels and batteries for easy power storage.
  • Battery Storage: Deep cycle or LiFePO4 batteries for storing energy generated from solar panels.

Wind Power:

  • Small Wind Turbines: Can generate power in windy conditions; suitable for off-grid setups.
  • DIY Wind Turbines: Kits or plans available for building a small turbine.

Backup Generators:

  • Gas or Propane Generators: Provide immediate power for appliances and tools. Ensure you have fuel stored safely.
  • Inverter Generators: Quieter and more efficient; good for sensitive electronics.

Bicycle Generators:

  • Pedal Power Generators: Convert human energy into electricity, useful for charging small devices.

Hydro Power:

  • Micro-Hydro Systems: If you have access to running water, these can generate continuous power.

Grid Down Energy Storage and Management

Batteries:

  • Deep Cycle Batteries: Store energy from solar or wind systems for use when needed.
  • LiFePO4 Batteries: The lithium chemistry of these batteries is generally about 1/3rd the weight of traditional lead-acid batteries while still providing a massive boost to performance and capacity so you won’t miss a single second of runtime.
  • Car Batteries: Can be used for some applications, but should be managed carefully.

Power Inverters:

  • Convert DC power from batteries to AC power for household appliances.

Power Management:

  • Energy Audit: Assess which devices are essential and prioritize power use accordingly.
  • Smart Power Strips: Help manage and reduce phantom loads.

Safety and Maintenance

Fuel Storage:

  • Store fuel for generators safely and according to regulations.

Maintenance Supplies:

  • Keep spare parts and tools on hand for maintaining generators or solar systems.

These power options and strategies will help you maintain some functionality during a grid-down situation.

Stay Vigilant and Be prepared

In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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Food In Survival Preparedness – Will You Starve To Death?

Will you go hungry? - Food in Emergency Preparedness

When preparing for emergencies, having a well-thought-out plan for food is crucial. Here’s how you can effectively prepare:

Assess Your Needs

  • Number of People: Determine how many people in your household you will need to feed. Remember, 2100 calories a day per person for optimal health.
  • Dietary Restrictions: Consider any special dietary needs or medical conditions.
  • Normal Food: Consider the importance of storing foods that you already eat. Make sure you like what you will be forced to eat in an emergency. Don’t forget to stock some feel-good food, morale is an important consideration.

Stock Up on Non-Perishable Foods

  • Canned Goods: Beans, vegetables, fruits, meats, and soups. Stored properly, these will last several years and are ready to eat, even cold if necessary.
  • Dry Goods: Pasta, rice, oatmeal, and cereal.
  • Packaged Goods: Crackers, granola bars, and instant noodles.
  • Powdered or Canned Milk: Useful if fresh milk isn’t available.
  • Freeze Dried: Great shelf life, usually up to 25 years, and nutritious. More water is required for these stores.

Water Supply

  • Quantity: Aim for one gallon per person daily for cooking, and enough for at least three days. If you plan to use dry, freeze-dried, or powdered goods, additional water storage is required.
  • Storage: Keep it in clean, sealed containers and store them in a cool, dark place. Colored containers are best as they block out the light and reduce the risk of algae growth.

Consider Special Requirements

  • Babys: If you have infants, stock up on formula and baby food.
  • Medications: Include any special dietary supplements or medications that require specific storage.

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Portable Stoves: Have a camping stove or other portable cooking equipment.
  • Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel (e.g., propane, charcoal) for cooking.
  • Manual Can Opener: Essential if you have canned goods.

Food Storage and Safety

  • Rotation: Regularly check expiration dates and rotate your food stock.
  • Storage: Store food in a cool, dry place. Use airtight containers to protect from pests.

Emergency Food Kit

  • Food Supplies: Include a basic food supply in your emergency kit.
  • Eating Utensils: Pack items like disposable plates, utensils, and napkins.
  • Premade Kits: Emergency Five Day Survival Backpack

Know Your Community Resources

  • Local Assistance: Be aware of local shelters, or community resources that can provide additional help.

By preparing ahead and ensuring you have a good variety, you can be more confident in managing your food needs during an emergency.

Stay Vigilant and Be prepared

In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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Emergency Planning – National Preparedness Month – Time to Prepare

Emergency strikes

National Preparedness Month is observed every September in the United States to promote awareness and encourage emergency preparedness. It’s a time for individuals, families, and communities to review and enhance their emergency plans, ensure they have the necessary supplies, and understand how to respond accordingly to different disasters.

National Preparedness Month typically focuses on a specific theme or set of themes. These provide guidance on various aspects of preparedness, such as creating emergency kits, developing communication plans, and staying informed about potential hazards.

Preparing for different types of disasters can certainly make a big difference in how you and your family handle emergencies. Here’s a simple guide to get started:

1. Assess Your Risks

  • Identify Hazards: Consider the types of disasters that are most likely to affect your area, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, wildfires, or severe storms, and prepare accordingly.
  • Review Past Incidents: Look at past emergencies in your region to understand what could happen.

2. Create a Family Emergency Plan

  • Communication Plan: Establish how your family will communicate if separated. Choose a meeting spot and designate a family contact person outside your area.
  • Evacuation Plan: Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home and workplace. Know where your local shelters are located.
  • Emergency Contacts: List important contacts and share them with every family member.

3. Build an Emergency Kit

  • Basic Supplies: Include items like water (two gallons per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
  • Personal Items: Add medications, important documents (e.g., IDs, insurance papers), and personal hygiene items.
  • Hygiene Supplies: Poor hygiene is a leading cause of illness during disasters.
  • Special Needs: Don’t forget supplies for babies, elderly family members, or pets.
  • Recommended Supplies List

4. Stay Informed

5. Practice and Review

  • Drills: Regularly practice your emergency plans with your family. Conduct fire drills, tornado drills, and other scenario-based exercises, particularly the ones of most concern to you, in your area.
  • Update Plans: Review and update your plan and emergency kit annually or whenever there’s a change in your family situation. Additionally, consider having plans based on the seasons, especially the contents of your emergency kits.

6. Get Involved

  • Community: Join local preparedness programs or workshops. Being part of a community effort can surely provide additional resources and support.

7. Develop Emergency Skills

  • CPR/AED – First Aid: This training is a crucial component of first aid preparedness. Knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED can make a life-saving difference in emergencies. Basic first-aid skills can be a game changer in a disaster.
    Schedule your private group session today
  • Stop The Bleed: Blood loss is the number one preventable cause of death after injury. Learning the skills to identify and treat traumatic life-threatening bleeding is extremely valuable when your local EMS is overwhelmed by a disaster.
    Register Here

Stay Vigilant and Be prepared

In addition, take these steps to ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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A Guide to Disaster Preparedness during Civil Unrest

disaster preparedness

Introduction:

In an ever-changing world, civil unrest can emerge unexpectedly, challenging the stability of communities and putting citizens at risk. While we hope for peace, it is essential to be prepared for the unexpected, as hope is not a strategy. This article aims to provide a starting point for disaster preparedness during civil unrest, equipping you with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate challenging times.

Stay Informed:

Knowledge is a powerful tool in times of civil unrest. Stay informed about local and global events through reliable news sources. Social media can be a valuable tool for real-time updates, and disaster preparedness, but verify information before sharing, as misinformation can spread quickly during periods of unrest.

Develop a Communication Plan:

Establish a communication plan with family, friends, and neighbors. Identify primary and alternative communication methods, such as text messages, social media, or walkie-talkies. Having a designated meeting point or a centralized contact person can help in case regular communication channels are disrupted.

Create a Disaster Preparedness Emergency Kit:

Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential supplies for at least 72 hours.

  • Non-perishable food items,
  • Water (one gallon per person per day – minimum),
  • First aid supplies,
  • Prescription medications,
  • Flashlights and Batteries,
  • Important documents (ID, insurance papers, etc.),
  • Cash in small denominations,
  • Basic hygiene items

Secure Your Home:

Take measures to secure your home in case of civil unrest. Reinforce doors and windows, and consider investing in a home security system. Create a safe room where you can seek refuge if necessary. Develop evacuation routes and practice them with your family.

Stay Neutral and Avoid Conflict:

In times of civil unrest, tensions can run high. It is crucial to remain neutral and avoid engaging in confrontations. If possible, stay indoors and away from crowds. Do not participate in activities that could escalate the situation.

Know Your Community:

Build relationships with your neighbors and community members. In times of crisis, a strong support network can be invaluable. Collaborate on neighborhood watch programs or community emergency response teams to enhance overall preparedness.

Stay Physically and Mentally Prepared:

Maintain your physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep contribute to overall resilience. Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation or deep breathing exercises to cope with the emotional toll of civil unrest.

Know Your Rights:

Familiarize yourself with your legal rights and responsibilities during civil unrest. Understand the local laws and regulations governing peaceful assembly and the role of law enforcement. Document any encounters with authorities for future reference.

Conclusion:

Civil unrest can be a challenging and unpredictable situation, but with proper disaster preparedness, individuals can increase their resilience and enhance their ability to navigate these tumultuous times. By staying informed, creating communication plans, securing homes, building community connections, and maintaining overall well-being, individuals can contribute to a safer and more resilient society in the face of civil unrest.

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Are you ready for the road?

We are headed into the time of year when travel reaches its peak level, especially by passenger and/or recreational vehicles. That means it is time to get them in tip-top road ready condition. This includes making certain that we have emergency supplies that are congruent with our travel plans. We don’t want to be the ones in the news that fell prey to an unforeseen incident that left us unprepared and vulnerable. We don’t want to be lost, stuck or disabled without the tools and supplies that will help us prevail in whatever situation we find ourselves. That being said it is untenable to prepare for every situation, but we can prepare for most.

Frequent traveler

As an instructor, I travel year round all around the NW. Often times I find that I am the only vehicle on the road. That is actually my favorite time to travel. I have a keen sense that most times the only thing separating me and the oncoming traffic is a painted line. You are at the mercy of every other driver out there when you travel. You can be doing everything right and pay the price for the mistake or indiscretion of someone else at any time. I often see debris on the roadways from storms, improperly secured loads, and accidents. These hazards can and will cause problems for you, the recreational traveler if you are not careful and prepared.

Unprepared travelers

All too often we hear of someone who was caught unprepared while traveling. Whether it was weather related, mechanical failure, poor planning, or just bad luck the result is the same. They are forced into survival mode trying to improvise for shelter, food, and water occasionally resulting in death or severe injury. Something I say in all my classes is, “It costs us very little to be prepared and safe, but could cost us a great deal if we are not”, it is relevant to almost all aspects of our lives.

How do we prepare?

Skills first

As an instructor, I will always start by developing your skills. The skills that are relevant to this topic are easily attainable. The key is to learn the skills before you need them.

  • Learn how to check your tire pressure
  • Learn how to change a tire
  • Learn how to check your oil
  • Learn how to check your coolant level
  • Learn how to check your transmission fluid
  • Learn how to check and change fuses in your vehicle(s)
  • Learn how to use a weather radio
  • Learn how to read a paper map (not google maps)
  • Learn how to use a compass
  • Learn how to properly place flares
  • Learn how to use your fire extinguisher
  • Learn how to use jumper cables
  • Learn how to use a water filter
  • Learn how to use a portable stove

Tools and Supplies

Now that we have an idea of what skills we need, lets put together the tools and supplies to compliment those skills.

For your vehicle

  • Flashlight/Headlamp
  • Ice scraper
  • Tire gauge
  • Carjack
  • Spare tire (preferably full size)
  • Tire repair kit with a compressor
  • Shop towels
  • Quart of oil
  • Gallon of coolant
  • Quart of transmission fluid
  • Long funnel
  • Basic toolset (wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, etc…)
  • Solar or crank powered weather radio
  • Maps and compass
  • Flares (preferably electronic to avoid combustion hazard)
  • Fire extinguisher (ABC)
  • Jumper cables
  • Portable Battery Jump Starter
  • Small shovel
  • Tow Rope

For the people

  • Candles
  • Lighters
  • Matches
  • Duct tape (we like Gorilla tape)
  • Disposable gloves
  • Well-stocked first aid kit (with any prescription meds you may be dependant on, such as an EpiPen, insulin, etc…)
  • Solar blankets
  • Wool blankets
  • Warm socks
  • Raincoat or poncho
  • Good all-weather coat
  • Cash (small bills and coins)
  • Stocking cap
  • Sun hat
  • Umbrella
  • Heavy gloves (work gloves)
  • Sleeping bag for the current season
  • Tent
  • Sleeping pads (one for each person)
  • Paper and pencils
  • Whistle
  • List of important phone numbers (on paper)
  • Can opener
  • Knife
  • Scissors
  • Garbage bags in various sizes
  • Sewing kit
  • Baby wipes
  • Toilet paper
  • Hand soap
  • Comb
  • Hairbrush
  • Toothbrush
  • Change of clothes (season appropriate)
  • Towels in a waterproof bag
  • Water (preferably one gallon per person or more)
  • Water filter (such as a Sawyer mini)
  • Backpack (small, for carrying supplies during excursions i.e. getting water, etc…)
  • Good walking shoes or boots
  • Portable camp stove (we like Jetboils)
  • Freeze Dried food (preferably 3 days per person)
  • 100 feet of Paracord
  • 25 feet of 3/8 inch rope
  • Pocket survival guide
  • A container for all your supplies

Important things to note

  • In cold weather, your water containers should have space to allow room for expansion when the contents freeze.
  • Always have a backpack for each person. If you are forced by circumstances to leave your vehicle on foot, you will want to be able to carry as much of your gear as possible. Always choose to stay with your vehicle if you can.
  • Your kit should change with the seasons, winter gear won’t do you much good in the heat of summer, but extra water will be invaluable.
  • When taking a longer trip, add extra food and water to your kit.
  • Don’t forget about communications: you can summon help with a cell phone or a two-way radio.
  • Depending on the laws where you live and your personal preferences, weapons and ammunition can be a useful addition to your vehicle kit.

Urban vs. Remote

This article is focused on remote travel where you would not be able to depend on services like AAA or other roadside assistance. Although these skills, tools, and supplies will benefit you wherever you travel you may not need to prepare for the extremes that I have. Not everybody needs everything on this list.  Pick the items that are relevant to your situation, your environment, and your disaster scenarios. No list can be comprehensive for everyone, but this has done well by me. As I said before,
“It costs us very little to be prepared and safe, but could cost us a great deal if we are not”

As Always,
Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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Don’t be a taco sauce hero

I hope it has been long enough to be sensitive, but not so long that you don’t remember. I have to say it angered me greatly to listen to the news about the man and his dog that survived 5 days in the wilderness on nothing more than 3 packets of taco sauce. They not only completely misrepresented what it takes to survive, they essentially made the idiot a hero. The media going to the extreme and Taco Bell stepping up to salute the young man for being so resourceful and rewarding him is ridiculous and dangerous.

This is probably the worst thing that could have happened. It sets up a lot of ignorant albeit well-meaning people to fail in a survival situation. The facts are that this young man failed at everything but death. His situational awareness was non-existent, had he even the slightest bit he would have recognized that he was getting in over his head. He would have seen all the warning flags that were flying around his head. If he had any sense at all he would not have gotten in the bad situation in the first place. It is not as if some exigent circumstances caused the problem, it was sheer carelessness, and we paid for it. Who do you think paid for the search efforts?

Don’t get me wrong I’m happy he and his dog survived, but it wasn’t because of taco sauce. He did enough things right after the fact, that he survived, and he would have without the taco sauce! What is being missed here by the media, and all those watching it yet ignorant of reality is the rule of threes and how it relates to survival.

The rule of threes

  • You will not survive for longer than 3 seconds without staying calm
  • You will not survive for longer than 3 minutes without air
  • You will not survive for longer than 3 hours without shelter
  • You will not survive for longer than 3 days without water
  • You will not survive for longer than 3 weeks without food
  • You will not survive for longer than 3 months without community

As you can see from the list above he would have survived an additional two weeks without any food, let alone the taco sauce. It was completely irrelevant. We need to take our survival and preparedness seriously and not propagate these aggrandized misconceptions about survival, that helps no one.

I am an advocate of getting out there and exploring, pushing your limits, and expanding your skill sets. But I am wholeheartedly against being foolish and reckless, let alone the media making a circus out of such foolishness.

Remember, Knowledge is the easiest tool to carry!

  • Know where you are going.
  • Know who you are going with.
  • Know what you are taking with you.
  • Know the limits of your own skills.
  • Know when to turn around.
  • Know better than to foolishly put yourself at risk.

As Always,
Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

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Being prepared is a journey, not a destination

Winter storms

Here in the Northwest we recently experienced an extreme weather event. One that is unusual for this neck of the woods. We received a large amount of heavy wet snow in a short period of time. This caused a myriad of issues with our roads, the power, and even our railways. The impact of the storm was mostly felt in the Southern Willamette Valley and the Cascades in the same region.

I know of several people caught unprepared. They were without power and water for an extended period. Their house is on well water and the pump doesn’t run without power. Some friends and family were without needed medications with no way to get them due to road closures. Neighbors helping neighbors, as well as the young and strong coming to the aid of those less capable, was a normal day.

I myself was in Klamath Falls when the storm hit, 6 hours from home and on the wrong side of the Cascades. With multiple passes closed and another front moving in that threatened to close the remaining passes, I made my move.

 

Being Prepared

Don’t take this lightly, I travel in a 4-wheel drive vehicle with traction tires and chains. In my rig, I carry the tools, equipment, and supplies to survive for a week or longer without aid of any sort. I also have my General class Ham license and have a radio in my rig. I am prepared to take those kinds of risks. There were many times, in fact, most of the journey through the mountains, when there was not another vehicle in sight, I was mostly on my own.

 

Staying Vigilant

But, this is nothing new to me, I am constantly assessing my level of readiness and making improvements as needed. Seasonal adjustments are constantly being made to my equipment and supplies. Always erring on the side of being overly safe. I have the training and equipment (in my vehicle) to hike out, in any weather, if necessary. Do not attempt anything that you have not been trained to do or do not have the proper equipment.

As is very common, most don’t consider the threat going without until it hits them in the face, because of this we have a run on the store for supplies. Be responsible for your safety and security. Plan for the inevitable disaster. Get your supplies, equipment, and training before a disaster strikes. One second after the disaster strikes is too late.

 

Staying Calm

The most important consideration aside from physical training and equipment is mental preparation. You must spend the time and energy to train your mind. It is imperative that we are able to remain calm in the face of adversity. Remember the rule of threes, you will not survive for more than 3 seconds without staying calm, I can not put enough stress on this. It is vital to your survival that you develop this skill. Without it all else is worthless.

 

As Always,

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

 

 

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