In an ideal world, when disaster strikes, our community bands together to form an unbreakable shield. Our neighbors, those familiar faces we greet every morning, transform into our saviors, allies in the face of adversity. However, reality paints a different picture. When SHTF, your neighbors are NOT on your team.

Leading a group is like balancing on a tightrope. Lean too much on authority, and you’ll face quiet pushback. Be too laid-back, and people might only look out for themselves. The trick is to build a team where everyone feels valued but still follows a common goal. This means choosing members who share your values, giving clear and motivating instructions, promoting teamwork without falling into ‘mob mentality’, and being fair while still holding the reins firmly. In a survival scenario, these leadership nuances become even trickier. The heightened stakes and primal instincts can overshadow structured teamwork, making a balanced approach more essential yet challenging to maintain.

Unless you are a truly seasoned leader with massive resources at your disposal, staying in your neighborhood will practically guarantee your death because after only a few missed meals any one of your neighbors will be liable do something desperate, and violent to take what you have.

The Descent of Maple Avenue

The Maple Avenue community had been a symbol of peace, trust, and collaboration for years. Elegant homes, manicured lawns, and the occasional block parties were the norms. But when an unprecedented economic collapse hit the country, that serenity was shattered.

Samantha, a well-prepared single mother, had always been the outlier. While her neighbors relished in their luxuries, Samantha spent her weekends attending survival workshops, storing non-perishable food items, and mapping out evacuation routes.

Distrust Shadows the Avenue

Just three days into the crisis, scarcity began to rear its ugly head. Supermarkets ran empty, ATMs were lifeless, and gas stations became battlegrounds.

The Smiths, a seemingly affable family living next door to Samantha, had always hosted the best Christmas parties. But when desperation set in, Mr. Smith came knocking, asking if Samantha had any spare food. She cautiously gave some, hoping to keep a low profile.

However, word spread, and before she knew it, her front yard was filled with desperate faces.

The Strain of Unequal Resources

By the week’s end, a dangerous hierarchy emerged. Those who had more resources, like Samantha, became targets. The Hendersons, a couple from the end of the block, tried pooling resources, aiming for unity. But disparities were evident. Some had hoarded valuables; others had almost nothing.

Fights broke out over trivial matters, as the weight of past grievances resurfaced. The Johnsons and the Garcias, once tennis partners, clashed over an old landscaping feud, which in this tense environment, escalated alarmingly.

The Collapse of Community Spirit

With chaos looming, Samantha knew she had to act. Remembering her survival strategies, she covertly packed essentials and initiated her exit strategy.

One morning, the community woke up to find her house empty. Samantha and her children had vanished.

Weeks later, as some semblance of order returned, tales circulated of Samantha’s escape. Some envied her foresight; others criticized her for not sharing her plans.

The real lesson of Maple Avenue, however, was the grim revelation that when survival is at stake, familiarity and past camaraderie are no assurance of loyalty.

The Game of Telephone: More than Just Child’s Play

We’ve all played the game of ‘telephone’ in kindergarten or first grade. A message begins at one end and as it’s whispered from one child to the next, it inevitably gets altered. By the end of the line, the message often becomes hilariously distorted, teaching kids an early lesson about communication errors. What’s truly fascinating is the child who, whether intentionally or inadvertently, changes the message for amusement, attention, or sheer boredom.

Lessons from the Game:

1. Unintended changes happen: Just like in real-life crises, things don’t always go as planned. Information gets distorted.
2. Malicious intent: There are those who deliberately spread misinformation, causing panic and mistrust.
3. Trust issues: As we cannot verify the original message until the end, we’re forced to trust each participant. A significant lesson in the importance and fragility of trust.

This seemingly innocuous game becomes a microcosm of society. It’s an early indicator that when SHTF, misinformation can become a powerful weapon, and trust, a double-edged sword. The Telephone Game & The Communication Problem (System Tinker.)

Robert Greene’s Strategy #5: A Deep Dive

AVOID THE SNARES OF GROUPTHINK: THE COMMAND-AND-
CONTROL STRATEGY

The problem in leading any group is that people inevitably have their own
agendas. You have to create a chain of command in which they do not feel
constrained by your influence yet follow your lead. Create a sense of
participation, but do not fall into groupthink–the irrationality of collective
decision making.

Robert Greene

Moving beyond child’s play, Robert Greene’s 5th strategy in “33 Strategies of War” delves into the intricacies of leading and being part of groups. Here’s an in-depth analysis of his words:

• Balancing authority: Too much or too little can both be detrimental. In desperate times, a community needs both a decisive leader and inclusive decision-making.
• Avoiding Groupthink: Collective irrationality can lead to poor decisions, especially when SHTF. Diverse perspectives are crucial.
• Appointing the right lieutenants: The importance of trust is reiterated. You need individuals who can carry out your vision without blind subservience.

Greene’s insights throw light on the challenges faced by communities during crises. Neighbors, despite best intentions, come with their own agendas and survival instincts.

The 33 Strategies of War in Under 30 Minutes | Robert Greene

Scenarios to Consider When SHTF

The dangers lurking in our neighborhoods during a crisis aren’t just speculative. History and sociology provide insights into potential scenarios, which include:

1. Resource Grab: Desperation leading neighbors to covet and even steal resources.
2. Misinformation: Rumors and fear resulting in unwarranted attacks or ostracization.
3. Paranoia: Close-knit neighborhoods breeding distrust when resources are scarce.

Resource Grabs and Neighborly Bonds Under Strain

In times of crisis, the lines between friend and foe can quickly blur, especially when essentials are at stake. While many of us like to believe that strong community ties will hold firm during tough times, history has shown that desperation can override even the strongest bonds. When resources are scant and survival is on the line, those living next door might not remain the allies you once believed them to be. The concept of ‘resource grabs’ sheds light on this dark side of human behavior and serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges one might face in a SHTF scenario.

Resource Grab Example #1: The 1977 New York City Blackout Chaos

July 13, 1977, started like any other summer day in New York City, but by nightfall, it turned into chaos that the city had never seen. A series of lightning strikes on power infrastructures plunged NYC into darkness. With the entire city blacked out, the situation rapidly descended into anarchy.

Overnight, looting and vandalism ran rampant. People broke into supermarkets, electronic stores, and other businesses, taking whatever they could get their hands on. More than 1,600 stores were damaged, and over 3,000 arrests were made. What’s more alarming was that the chaos wasn’t driven by hunger or necessity alone, but also by opportunity and mob mentality.

Firefighters battled more than 1,000 fires, and the city sustained damages estimated at $300 million (over $1.2 billion when adjusted for inflation to today’s rates). When the lights came back on, the city faced a harsh reality: the social fabric can be incredibly fragile during crises.

The 1977 NYC blackout is a stark reminder of the speed at which urban centers can devolve into chaos when resources are scarce or when law and order are temporarily disabled. It emphasizes the need for individual preparedness and community cohesion in face of unexpected adversities. 45 Years Ago tonight, A Blackout Struck New York City (The New York Times.)

Resource Grab Example #2: The 2020 Toilet Paper Rush

In the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, as the gravity of the situation started to hit the U.S., a rather unexpected shortage arose: toilet paper. Supermarkets and online stores ran out of stock almost overnight. The images of barren shelves, where once stacks of toilet rolls stood, quickly became symbolic of the panic and uncertainty that gripped the nation.

But why toilet paper? It wasn’t a direct necessity to combat the virus, like masks or hand sanitizers. Experts believe it was a mix of genuine concern over lockdowns, a herd mentality response to seeing others buy in bulk, and the psychological need to exert control over an uncontrollable situation. The rush became so extreme that there were reports of physical fights breaking out in aisles, leading some stores to limit purchases or increase security.

Beyond the immediate logistics, this rush signified a deeper issue: when faced with uncertainty, even in modern society, our primal instincts can take over, leading to irrational hoarding behaviors. The 2020 toilet paper frenzy serves as a reminder of how quickly “normal” can be disrupted and how vital it is to prepare rationally and maintain community solidarity during crises.

Misinformation: The Hidden Enemy Next Door

When disaster strikes, accurate information becomes as vital as food and water. However, in the chaos that ensues, rumors and false narratives can spread faster than verified facts. These can pit neighbor against neighbor, causing unwarranted panic or actions based on half-truths. While we’d like to believe that our close community would stand united, misinformation can quickly sow seeds of distrust, turning even the most tight-knit neighborhoods into battlegrounds of suspicion. Understanding the destructive power of misinformation is crucial in navigating the treacherous waters of a SHTF scenario.

Misinformation Example #1: The Spanish-American War and the “Remember the Maine!” Slogan

In 1898, the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor became a significant catalyst for the Spanish-American War. The immediate cause of the explosion remained unclear, yet American newspapers, particularly those owned by William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer, were quick to place the blame on Spain. Sensational headlines and exaggerated stories—known as “yellow journalism”—fueled American public opinion against Spain.

The slogan “Remember the Maine! To Hell with Spain!” became a rallying cry, and the U.S. declared war on Spain shortly after. Later investigations suggested that the Maine explosion was likely an accident, possibly caused by a coal bunker fire, and not the result of any Spanish interference.

This episode underscores the power of misinformation, especially when amplified by influential media outlets, to sway public opinion and even lead nations into war. It’s a testament to the necessity of rigorous fact-checking and the dangers of letting unchecked claims dictate major policy decisions. ‘Remember the Maine, to Hell with Spain!’ (U.S. Naval Institute.)

Misinformation Example #2: The 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing and the Reddit Detective Fiasco

In the aftermath of the tragic 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, the desire to identify the culprits ran high, not just among law enforcement, but also among citizens. This collective yearning for justice and closure led to an infamous incident on Reddit, where armchair detectives took it upon themselves to identify the bombers.

Utilizing available photos and videos of the event, Reddit users zeroed in on several individuals, most notably misidentifying a missing student named Sunil Tripathi as a suspect. This misinformation spread like wildfire across social media, leading to harassment and undue stress for the Tripathi family.

Ultimately, the real suspects were identified by law enforcement, and Sunil Tripathi was later found to have no connection to the bombing. This incident highlighted the dangers of crowdsourced investigations without checks and balances, as well as the rapid spread and deep impact of misinformation in the digital age. It serves as a stark reminder that in times of crisis, unchecked narratives can lead to harmful actions and deepen divisions in an already tense environment. Hey Reddit, Enough Boston Bombing Vigilantism (The Atlantic.)

Paranoia: The Silent Divider in Crises

Amidst any crisis, fear is an expected response. However, when that fear turns inward, morphing into deep-seated paranoia about those around us, it can fracture even the most cohesive communities. As resources become scarcer and uncertainty prevails, doubts about neighbors’ intentions might emerge, leading to heightened tensions and potential conflicts. Trust, once a given, becomes a luxury, and every interaction is viewed through a lens of suspicion. This section delves into the psychological quagmire of paranoia and how it can erode the very support systems we rely upon, highlighting the dangers of allowing unchecked fears to determine our interactions in a SHTF scenario.

Paranoia Example #1: The Los Angeles Blackouts and Neighborhood Chaos of 1992

The Los Angeles riots in 1992, which erupted after the acquittal of police officers on trial for the beating of Rodney King, was a perfect storm of societal frustrations, racial tensions, and systemic issues. But amidst the larger backdrop of this chaos, there were countless micro-stories of paranoia influencing neighborhoods’ actions.

When the city’s power grid was compromised due to fires and damages from the riots, vast areas experienced blackouts. The veil of darkness, combined with the already tense atmosphere, escalated the fears of many residents. People began boarding up their homes, not just in fear of rioters, but also wary of their own neighbors.

Stories emerged of communities setting up makeshift barriers and checkpoints, questioning anyone and everyone about their intentions. The absence of streetlights and the constant wail of sirens created an atmosphere where trust was the first casualty. In some neighborhoods, residents formed vigilante groups, challenging anyone they deemed “out of place.” There were reports of confrontations and accusations, often solely based on paranoid suspicions without any concrete evidence.

Such an environment underscores the fragile nature of community trust. In the face of widespread crisis and fear, even longstanding relationships can be strained or broken, replaced with doubt and suspicion. The LA Blackouts of 1992 highlight the severe implications of paranoia, reminding us that when the chips are down, the bonds that tie neighborhoods together can quickly unravel.

This song was about the same event:

Paranoia Example #2: The California Drought and Water Watch of 2015

California experienced one of its most severe droughts in history between 2012 and 2017, with 2015 being an especially critical year. The state imposed mandatory water restrictions, and communities were asked to reduce water usage drastically. As reservoirs dried up and once-lush landscapes turned brown, a new kind of neighborhood watch emerged: water vigilantes.

Residents began monitoring and even reporting each other for perceived water wastage. A neighbor washing a car or watering a lawn during restricted hours would quickly find themselves the subject of scrutiny. In some neighborhoods, anonymous notes would appear on doorsteps, chastising homeowners for their water usage. The state even launched an app where citizens could report wasteful neighbors, further intensifying the atmosphere of distrust.

This heightened state of surveillance caused a rift in many communities. Friends and neighbors who had once shared barbecues and block parties were now casting each other in roles of accuser and accused. The fear of being reported and the consequent hefty fines added to the general paranoia.

The California drought scenario underscores how quickly trust can evaporate in a community under external pressures. It served as a stark reminder that when resources become scarce, the bonds of neighborhood camaraderie can be strained, leading to an environment of suspicion and tension.

Putting Stress in Historical Context: Why It Is Important That Being Stressed Out Was Not a Way to Be a Person 2,000 Years Ago

Primal Urges: How History Reveals Our Raw Response to Crisis

Understanding stress in the context of survival is essential, especially when it comes to gauging reactions and strategies for a SHTF scenario. Looking back 2,000 years ago, our ancestors faced a very different set of stresses. Theirs were immediate and tangible: hunting for the day’s food, defending against predators or rival tribes, and seeking shelter from the elements. In those days, stress had a clear cause and a clear solution. But how does that primitive stress response affect our behaviors in modern crises?

Primal Reactions in Modern Settings

Our brains still carry the same fight-or-flight response mechanisms as our ancestors. When faced with an immediate threat, our bodies produce adrenaline, sharpening our senses and preparing us for action. However, in today’s complex societal structure, not every problem has an immediate solution. The result? Lingering stress and often irrational reactions.

In a survival situation, like when SHTF, those old primal instincts resurface, leading to behaviors that might seem out of place in a civilized setting. This includes an innate territorial instinct – the need to protect one’s resources, be it food, shelter, or family.

Your Neighbor’s Stress and You

So, when disaster strikes, your neighbors, just like you, will revert to their most basic survival instincts. Their brain will prioritize their family’s survival over anything else, including neighborhood alliances. They’ll be assessing their food stores, the safety of their shelter, their access to water, and more. In moments of scarcity, sharing might not be their first instinct.

Your amiable neighbor might become fiercely protective of a water source. Another might hoard essential supplies, fearing for the future. Some might even become confrontational if they believe you pose a threat to their family’s well-being. It’s not personal—it’s primal.

The Fragility of Trust Amidst Crisis

Merely depending on neighbors due to past acquaintances can be a treacherous bet in times of calamity. As tensions escalate and survival instincts kick in, trustworthiness should be scrutinized:

• Past Grievances: Historical disputes may unexpectedly reignite, potentially with lethal outcomes.
• Resource Disparities: Possessing more or less than those around you can render you vulnerable, either as a potential mark or as a reliant party.
• Skill Deficiencies: Not every neighbor possesses valuable expertise during crises. Such disparities can spark strain, especially when considering the dynamics of survival alliances.

How to Survive the Unthinkable

When disaster strikes, the unpredictable chaos can be overwhelming. Yet, in the midst of uncertainty, your preparation and strategy will be the anchor holding you steady.

1. Decipher Your Surroundings

To survive, one must first be aware. Knowledge of your environment, especially the people within it, becomes crucial. See your neighbors not just as acquaintances, but as potential variables in your survival equation.

• Neighbor Insight: Take time to understand the assets, limitations, and motivations of those around you. It’s not about judging, but about assessing risks and opportunities. In a situation where resources are scarce, recognizing potential threats early can save you from unforeseen troubles.

2. Design Multiple Plans

One cannot rely on a single strategy in a landscape that’s constantly shifting. The more adaptable you are, the better you’ll fare.

• Adaptive Blueprints: Don’t limit yourself to a singular plan. Think of various escape routes, multiple safe zones, alternative communication methods, and contingency plans for different scenarios. Preparing for multiple outcomes ensures you’re not caught off guard.

Your Strategy: The Beacon in Chaos

Remember, “failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” These steps aren’t just theoretical advice but essential tools in times of adversity. By truly understanding your surroundings and planning for a range of possibilities, you are arming yourself against the unpredictable. Your neighbors, regardless of prior relationships, may not be on your side. But with foresight and strategy, you can be on your own team, and that’s a winning start.

Conclusion: The Stark Reality of Trust in a Crisis

Crises strip away the veneer of societal norms and expose raw human nature. When the chips are down, the intricacies of trust, survival instincts, and stark self-preservation come sharply into focus. While your neighbors might have been friendly faces during the calm, they could swiftly turn into competitors, or even threats, during a storm. The most vital tool in your survival toolkit? Self-reliance. It’s not about isolation but about preparation. The reliance on your own skills, resources, and foresight not only increases your chances of survival but also ensures you won’t be caught off guard by misplaced trust. In the unpredictable whirlwind of a crisis, understanding and preparing for this complex dynamic is not just wise; it’s essential. Your survival might just depend on it.

See you soon!

The post When SHTF your Neighbors are NOT on your team. appeared first on Prepper Facts.

As temperatures rise and heatwaves become increasingly frequent, “Beat the Heat: A Survivalist’s Guide to Thriving in Summer” offers a lifeline for those seeking to navigate the scorching months ahead. Seasoned survivalists and outdoor novices alike can benefit from understanding how to maintain their safety and health despite the challenges of extreme weather conditions.

Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses

An essential first step to beating the heat involves recognizing the dangers of prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, can pose serious threats if they’re not promptly addressed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies key symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, a fast and weak pulse, and fainting. Awareness of these signs and how to respond can be a life-saving skill during the summer.

Heat-related illnesses can range from mild to severe. Here are the most common types, their symptoms, and how to prevent them:

• Heat Cramps: Characterized by painful muscle spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs. Often the result of intense exercise in high heat. Prevent them by staying hydrated and taking breaks to cool down.
• Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin, a fast but weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. Prevent it by drinking plenty of fluids, wearing lightweight clothing, and avoiding the hottest parts of the day.
• Heat Stroke: The most severe heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include high body temperature (103°F or higher), hot, red, dry, or damp skin, a rapid and strong pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Prevent heat stroke by taking all the precautions for avoiding heat exhaustion. Remember, heat stroke can occur without symptoms of heat exhaustion appearing first.
• Heat Syncope: A fainting episode or dizziness that usually occurs with prolonged standing or sudden rising from a sitting or lying position. Factors that may contribute to heat syncope include dehydration and lack of acclimatization. Symptoms might include fainting, dizziness, and a sudden collapse. It’s prevented by staying hydrated and avoiding standing for long periods in the heat.
• Heat Rash: Also known as prickly heat, is skin irritation caused by excessive sweating. It can occur at any age but is most common in young children. Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases. Prevent it by wearing loose, lightweight clothing and keeping the skin cool and dry.
• Sunburn: Sunburns are not only painful but also damaging to the skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Symptoms include red, warm, and tender skin, blistering, swelling, and in severe cases, fever and chills. Prevent sunburn by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

To prevent these illnesses, always stay hydrated, rest in cool places, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

How to React to Heat-Related Illnesses

Upon identifying the symptoms of a heat-related illness, immediate action is vital. First, seek a cooler location and lie down. Applying cool, wet cloths to as much of your body as possible and sipping non-alcoholic beverages are effective ways to lower body temperature. If vomiting occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Prevention, however, is always the best line of defense against these illnesses.

Heat Related Emergencies

Recognizing and Treating Sunburn

Sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes of sun exposure but can take several hours to appear visibly. Symptoms include red, tender, and warm-to-the-touch skin, and in severe cases, blisters, headaches, and a fever.

Identifying and Treating Sunburns: Steps to Soothe Your Skin

Sunburn is a common but harmful result of excessive sun exposure. Understanding how to recognize and treat it is crucial for maintaining skin health.

Recognizing Sunburn:

1. Redness and Discomfort: Sunburn usually appears as a reddening of the skin which is sensitive or painful to touch.
2. Swelling: In some cases, the affected area may swell.
3. Blistering: Severe sunburns can cause skin blisters.
4. Headaches, Fever, or Nausea: In extreme cases, sunburn can lead to symptoms like headaches, fever, or nausea, signaling sun poisoning.

How to Treat a Sunburn:

1. Cool Down: As soon as you notice sunburn, get out of the sun, and cool your skin with a damp cloth or cool (not cold) shower.
2. Moisturize: Apply a moisturizing lotion or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin and prevent peeling. Avoid petroleum or oil-based ointments as they can trap heat.
3. Hydrate: Sunburn can dehydrate you. Drink plenty of water to help rehydrate your body.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling.
5. Avoid Popping Blisters: If your sunburn has caused blisters, don’t pop them. They’re your body’s way of healing the skin.
6. Seek Medical Help: If your sunburn is severe (widespread blisters, severe pain, high fever, headache, confusion, or nausea), seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, prevention is the best approach to sunburn. Always wear sun-protective clothing, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours.

Hydration: The Lifeline of Summer Survival

Staying hydrated is crucial in hot weather. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other life-threatening conditions. It’s important to understand how much water you need, how to conserve it, and how to find and purify water in a survival situation. The CDC provides a guide to understanding the importance of hydration.

Maintaining Hydration: A Key to Your Health

Proper hydration is a cornerstone of good health, yet it’s often overlooked in our busy lives. Whether it’s due to frequent workouts, a hot climate, or simply the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our bodies can lose more water than we take in, leading to dehydration. The following steps provide an easy-to-follow guide to help you maintain optimal hydration, contributing to your overall wellbeing.

1. Monitor Fluid Intake: The recommended daily water intake varies depending on factors like age, sex, weight, activity level, and climate, but a general guideline is 3.7 liters for men and 2.7 liters for women.
2. Drink Regularly: Don’t wait to feel thirsty. Sip water or other non-alcoholic fluids throughout the day to maintain steady hydration.
3. Hydrate More During Exercise: When engaging in vigorous physical activity, drink more to compensate for the water lost through sweat.
4. Eat Hydrating Foods: Many fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelons are high in water content. Include them in your diet.
5. Stay Cool: In hot climates or intense workouts, the body sweats more. To counteract this, drink more fluids and stay in cooler environments when possible.
6. Pay Attention to Urine Color: Urine color is a good hydration indicator. Aim for pale yellow, a sign of proper hydration.
7. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Both are diuretics and can lead to dehydration. Drink them in moderation and compensate with additional water.

Remember, individual water needs can vary. Listen to your body’s signals and adjust your intake accordingly.

Food and Nutrition in Hot Weather

While hydration is important, the body also needs nutrients to function optimally. Opt for foods rich in water content, such as fruits and vegetables, to supplement your water intake.

During hot weather, it’s crucial to pay attention not only to what we drink but also what we eat. The right nutrition choices can help us stay hydrated, cool, and energized, while preventing heat-related illnesses.

Choosing foods with high water content is an effective way to support hydration. These include fruits like watermelons, strawberries, and peaches, and vegetables such as cucumbers, lettuce, and zucchinis. They provide substantial hydration and also offer essential vitamins and minerals.

Additionally, lean proteins like poultry, fish, and legumes can help maintain energy levels without causing a sense of heaviness that might accompany fatty meals. As metabolism heats the body, keeping meals light and balanced aids in staying cool.

Finally, it’s beneficial to include electrolyte-rich foods in your diet. Electrolytes help regulate body fluids and maintain hydration. Foods like bananas, avocados, and yogurt, or drinks like coconut water, are good sources of electrolytes.

Avoid excessively salty, spicy, and high-sugar foods as they can lead to dehydration. Also, limit alcohol and caffeine intake as they are diuretics, which means they promote fluid loss.

Hydrating Foods to Include in Your Diet:

1. Fruits: Watermelon, strawberries, peaches, oranges, pineapples.
2. Vegetables: Cucumbers, lettuce, zucchinis, bell peppers, tomatoes.
3. Protein Sources: Poultry, fish, legumes.
4. Electrolyte-Rich Foods: Bananas, avocados, yogurt, coconut water.

Remember, staying hydrated in hot weather isn’t just about what you drink but also what you eat. Make mindful choices for a healthier, cooler summer.

Food Safety During the Summer

Summers present unique challenges when it comes to food safety. The warmer temperatures can cause food to spoil more quickly, leading to a higher risk of foodborne illnesses. It’s essential to keep your food properly stored and cooled, especially during outdoor activities. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides comprehensive tips for handling food safely outdoors.

Surviving the Heat: The Vital Role of Shade and Shelter

In the battle against the heat, understanding the importance of shade and shelter is essential. Direct sun exposure can cause heatstroke or sunburn, and maintaining a lower body temperature is key to preventing such conditions. A well-placed shelter, whether created from tarps, hammocks, or natural elements like trees, can make a significant difference in mitigating heat effects.

When the sun is at its fiercest, shade serves as a refuge. It shields you from direct solar exposure and creates a cooler environment where the body can rest and recuperate. Familiarize yourself with techniques to construct temporary shelters using materials found in your environment. Even the shade from a tree can considerably reduce UV exposure.

Harnessing the Power of Shade: Diverse Forms of Shelter

In the quest to stay cool and protected in hot weather, understanding the different types of shade and shelter can be key. These can range from natural sources to man-made structures, all providing respite from the heat. Here’s a list of diverse forms of shade and shelter:

1. Natural Shade: Trees, large rocks, and caves can all provide natural shade. Look for broad-leafed trees or dense canopies that offer extensive coverage.
2. Tarps and Tents: Lightweight and easy to set up, tarps and tents offer portable shade. Position them to maximize their shadow throughout the day.
3. Hammocks: Hammocks hung under trees or canopies can serve as a shaded shelter, keeping you off the hot ground and promoting air circulation.
4. Sun Umbrellas or Parasols: These portable devices provide immediate shade and can be easily adjusted as the sun moves.
5. Pergolas and Gazebos: These more permanent structures provide a good source of shade in gardens or patios. Vines or fabric can be added for extra coverage.
6. Awnings and Canopies: Attached to buildings, these structures provide shade to windows and doors, helping to keep the interior of a building cool.
7. Shade Sails: These are large pieces of fabric stretched between points to create a shaded area. They’re flexible and can be used in various locations.
8. Portable Shelters: Pop-up shelters and beach tents are lightweight, easy to carry, and provide excellent shade.

Selecting the right type of shade or shelter depends on your location, resources, and needs. Having an understanding of the diverse forms available will help you stay cool and protected in hot weather.

Keeping Cool In Extreme Heat – Ideas From Burning Man

Dress for the Heat

Clothing can play a critical role in your summer survival strategy. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes reflect sunlight, helping to keep you cool. Opt for materials that are breathable and wick moisture away from your skin. Hats with brims offer protection for your face, neck, and ears, which are particularly susceptible to sunburn.

The Science Behind Sun-Protective Clothing: Does it Really Work?

Sun-protective clothing is designed to shield your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. These garments are rated using an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), indicating the fraction of the sun’s UV rays that can reach the skin.

Here are key points based on scientific studies and guidelines:

• Effectiveness of UPF Clothing: A shirt with a UPF of 50 blocks 98% of UV rays, allowing only 1/50th to reach your skin. “Sun Protective Clothing- A Safe and Simple Way to Keep the Rays at Bay”(Skin Cancer Foundation.)
• Clothing vs. Sunscreen: According to a 2011 review in the “Journal of Skin Cancer”, clothing offers more reliable sun protection than sunscreen, often compromised by improper application.
• Factors Affecting UPF: The sun protection offered by clothing can be influenced by its weave tightness, fabric type, and color. Dark or bright colors reflect more UV radiation. Thicker, densely woven fabrics like denim or wool provide more protection. However, wetness and stretching can decrease UPF.
• Regular Clothing: If your clothing isn’t sun-protective, choose loose-fitting, dark, or bright-colored garments made of thickly woven fabric.
• Complementary Measures: Even with sun-protective clothing, other sun safety measures are necessary, such as seeking shade, avoiding peak sun hours, and using sunscreen.

In conclusion, sun-protective clothing does work and can be a vital part of a comprehensive sun-protection strategy.

Plan Your Activities

Time your activities to avoid the sun at its peak. The hottest part of the day is usually between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so try to schedule any strenuous activities for the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.

Smart Scheduling: Planning Activities Around the Heat and Sun

When the temperature rises, planning your activities intelligently can help you avoid discomfort, fatigue, or even heat-related illnesses. Here are some tips for scheduling your day around the heat:

1. Avoid Peak Hours: The sun’s rays are the most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to schedule outdoor activities outside these hours, especially strenuous ones.
2. Opt for Morning or Evening: Early mornings and evenings are usually cooler. Consider this for exercising or other physical activities.
3. Use the Shade: If you must be outdoors during peak hours, stay in shaded areas as much as possible.
4. Indoor Activities: Plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day. This could be a good time for chores, hobbies, or indoor workouts.
5. Stay Hydrated: Whatever your schedule, remember to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
6. Monitor Weather Forecasts: Pay attention to daily weather forecasts and heat advisories. Be ready to adjust your plans if a heatwave is expected.
7. Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Consider sun-protective clothing for extended outdoor activities.
8. Sun Protection: Even if you’re avoiding peak hours, use sun protection – a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Remember, it’s not just about avoiding the heat but also about staying safe and comfortable when the temperatures rise. Proper planning can make your summer days more enjoyable and safe.

Navigating Heatwaves

Heatwaves can be deadly and are a serious concern during the summer months. Knowing how to respond during a heatwave can make all the difference. It is essential to stay indoors during the peak heat, if possible, or find a shaded area if you must be outside. Regularly cool yourself down with water and stay hydrated. The CDC offers valuable tips on how to stay safe during a heatwave.

A Quick Guide to Surviving Heatwaves

Heatwaves can pose significant health risks, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here are key strategies to stay safe during these periods of extreme heat:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, but avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as they can dehydrate you.
2. Stay Indoors: Limit your exposure to the heat by staying indoors, preferably in air-conditioned environments. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider visiting public places like libraries or shopping malls that are.
3. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Postpone intense physical activities or perform them during the cooler parts of the day, early morning, or late evening.
4. Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Sun-protective clothing and a hat can provide additional protection.
5. Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, even if you’re only going out for a short while.
6. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly check on older adults, children, and individuals with chronic medical conditions as they’re more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
7. Use Fans or Cool Showers: If air conditioning isn’t available, use fans, cool showers, or baths to help lower your body temperature.
8. Never Leave People or Pets in Cars: Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rapidly reach dangerous levels.
9. Be Informed: Pay attention to local weather forecasts, heat advisories, and safety information. Recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

While heatwaves can be dangerous, taking these steps can help you stay safe and healthy. Always listen to your body and seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else shows signs of a heat-related illness.

How to Survive a Heat Wave, According to Science

Fire Safety in the Summer

Fire safety is particularly important during the summer months when the risk of wildfires is higher. Ensuring that you can quickly and safely put out fires that you’ve started is essential. Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher close by whenever you have a fire going. Regularly check for fire bans or restrictions in your area during particularly dry periods.

Fire Safety in the Summer: Staying Vigilant and Prepared

During the summer, the rise in temperature and dry conditions can significantly increase the risk of fires. Here are essential measures to ensure fire safety during these warmer months:

1. Maintain Your Grill: Ensure your barbecue is in good working order and cleaned regularly. Always check for leaks in gas grills. Keep grills away from the house, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
2. Monitor Open Flames: Be cautious with open flames, such as bonfires or candles. Never leave them unattended and always extinguish them fully before leaving.
3. Respect Fire Restrictions: Obey local laws regarding outdoor fires, including restrictions during periods of high fire risk. This includes the use of fireworks, which can be a fire hazard in dry conditions.
4. Secure Your Home: Clear your property of dry vegetation and other combustibles, especially if you live in a wildfire-prone area. Keep gutters, roofs, and decks clear of debris.
5. Use Equipment Responsibly: Refuel lawnmowers, trimmers, and other outdoor machinery away from open flames or sparks. Only use them in cooler temperatures, such as early morning or evening, to avoid sparking a fire in hot conditions.
6. Have a Fire Safety Plan: Ensure smoke alarms are working, and your family has a well-practiced fire escape plan. Keep fire extinguishers in accessible locations and know how to use them.
7. Teach Fire Safety: Teach children about the dangers of playing with fire, including matches and lighters.
8. Report Fires Immediately: If you spot a fire, no matter how small, report it to your local fire department immediately.

Taking precautions can significantly reduce the risk of fires, ensuring you and your family can enjoy a safe summer.

Wildfire Preparedness and Response

Wildfires are a serious threat during the summer months, particularly in dry, wooded areas. Understanding how to prepare for and respond to a wildfire can be lifesaving. This involves creating a defensible space around your home, having an evacuation plan, and knowing how to protect yourself if escape isn’t possible. Ready.gov offers detailed guides on wildfire preparedness.

Responding to Wildfires: A Guide to Staying Safe During the Summer

Wildfires can occur in the summer due to dry conditions and high heat. Here are key strategies for responding effectively:

1. Stay Informed: Keep track of local news and weather stations for real-time updates on wildfire activity. Use reliable sources like your local fire department or regional forestry office.
2. Prepare Your Home: Create a defensible space around your home by clearing dry vegetation and other combustibles. Install dual-paned windows and non-combustible roofing materials for added protection.
3. Evacuation Plan: Develop a wildfire evacuation plan. This should include a designated emergency meeting location, escape routes, and an emergency communications plan.
4. Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes essentials like food, water, medications, important documents, and supplies for pets.
5. When Evacuating: If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Follow the routes recommended by officials to avoid congestion.
6. Returning Home: Wait for the all-clear from officials before returning home. Be cautious of lingering hazards like hot spots, ash pits, and fallen power lines.
7. After the Fire: Document property damage with photos or video and contact your insurance company. Seek help from local disaster relief services and maintain communication with your community.

Remember, your safety and the safety of your family is the priority. Always heed the advice and instructions of local officials during a wildfire.

Weathering the Storm: Surviving Summer’s Fury

Summer’s weather extremes include not just heatwaves but also violent storms. Knowing how to prepare for and survive these storms can be lifesaving. The National Weather Service’s advice on surviving summer storms, including identifying safe shelter and basic first aid, is a crucial resource.

Mastering Summer Nights: Dusk Till Dawn Survival

Despite the daytime heat, summer nights can be chilly, posing a risk of hypothermia. Coupled with the increased activity of nocturnal predators and insects, understanding night survival tactics becomes essential.

1. Create a Secure Shelter: Set up a well-ventilated yet secure shelter before dusk to safeguard against weather changes and insects.
2. Prepare for Temperature Drops: Despite the summer, nights can be chilly. A well-managed fire can provide warmth, deter animals, and keep insects at bay. Always practice fire safety, extinguishing it before you sleep or leave.
3. Optimize Your Sleeping Area: Choose a flat, debris-free area for sleeping to ensure comfort. Use insulation, such as a sleeping pad, to shield against cold ground temperatures.
4. Stay Hydrated: Even at night, you can dehydrate in the summer heat. Keep water within reach and hydrate as needed.
5. Secure Your Food Resources: Store all food and waste away from your shelter to avoid attracting wildlife. Use appropriate containers or hanging techniques, especially in bear-populated areas.
6. Layer Your Clothing: Dress in layers to manage fluctuating temperatures. Extra clothing can be removed if too hot, or added if temperatures drop drastically.
7. Maintain Vigilance: Set up noise-making tripwires around your camp to alert you of approaching creatures. Always be aware of potential threats in your surroundings.
8. Keep Lighting Accessible: Have a flashlight or headlamp readily available to navigate after dark or to react to unexpected situations.
9. Plan Ahead: Use the tranquil night hours to strategize the next day’s activities or travel plans.
10. Promote Mental Health: Embrace the calmness of the night. Survival isn’t just physical; mental well-being is equally important.

With these steps, summer nights become less about survival and more about effective management and comfort, ensuring a beneficial and peaceful rest period that equips you for the next day’s challenges.

Dealing with Insects and Animals in the Summer: Risks and Safety Measures

Summertime often means an increase in insect activity, including mosquitoes, ticks, and bees. Use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and be aware of your surroundings. Also, be vigilant of larger animals which may be more active in the warmer months. Here’s how to handle common encounters:

1. Insect Bites and Stings: Mosquitoes, ticks, and bees are more active in the summer. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants in areas where these pests are common. Check for ticks after being outdoors. Be cautious of bees and wasps around food and drinks.
2. Disease Risk: Mosquitoes and ticks can transmit diseases like West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and Zika virus. Use EPA-registered insect repellents and keep up with vaccinations and preventative medications where applicable.
3. Snakes: Be mindful of snakes, especially when hiking or camping. Wear protective footwear and avoid tall grass and rocks where snakes might hide. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Wild Animals: Keep a safe distance from all wild animals, especially those with young. Don’t leave food outside that might attract them. Understand how to react to encounters with local wildlife, such as bears or mountain lions.
5. Pets and Pests: Protect your pets from fleas and ticks with suitable preventative treatments. Ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date, especially for diseases like rabies.
6. Allergic Reactions: For those with allergies to bites or stings, carry an EpiPen or other emergency treatment, and ensure companions know how to use it.
7. Home Infestations: To prevent infestations, seal any potential entry points in your home and eliminate food sources.

Remember, while enjoying outdoor activities in the summer, being aware of your surroundings and taking preventative measures can help avoid unpleasant encounters with insects and animals.

Nature’s Armor: Natural Insect Repellent Options in Survival Situations

In a survival situation, you may not have access to commercially prepared insect repellents. However, nature provides some alternatives:

1. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus: If you’re in an area with eucalyptus trees, you can crush the leaves to release the oil, which can repel mosquitoes.
2. Citrus Peels: Many insects, including mosquitoes, dislike citrus. If you have access to citrus fruits, rub the peels on your skin to deter bugs.
3. Garlic: Consuming large amounts of garlic can cause your skin to emit a scent that repels many bugs.
4. Natural Smokes: Burning certain materials like sage, pine needles, or cedar bark can create a smoke that deters insects. However, be sure to maintain fire safety while doing this.
5. Mud: As a last resort, covering your exposed skin with a thin layer of mud can provide a physical barrier against insects.
6. Plant-based Repellents: Some plants, like marigolds, lavender, and lemongrass, are known to naturally repel insects. Crush these and apply to exposed skin or place them around your shelter.

Remember, while these natural remedies can provide some protection, they may not be as effective as commercial insect repellents, especially against disease-carrying insects. Always try to use EPA-registered insect repellents when possible.

Bushcraft Mosquito Repellent | Feral Woodcraft

Preparing for Summer Survival: Adapt and Overcome

As the summer heat bears down, survival challenges transition from frigid conditions to beating the heat and securing hydration. This shift requires not only a change in your survival kit but also a refocus of your survival strategies and techniques.

Here is a comprehensive list of summer survival essentials:

1. Lightweight Clothing: Choose moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics in light colors to reflect sunlight and keep cool.
2. Sun Hat: Opt for wide-brimmed hats for effective face and neck protection from direct sunlight.
3. Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
4. Sunglasses: Choose polarized sunglasses for eye protection from UV radiation and glare reduction.
5. Insect Repellent: Apply during dusk and dawn to deter bugs when they’re most active.
6. Water Purification System: Essential for securing safe water sources. Options include purification tablets, a life straw, or a portable water filter.
7. Hydration Carrier: A hydration bladder or water bottle allows easy water transportation.
8. Multi-tool: A versatile tool serving various purposes, from food prep to shelter construction.
9. Portable Shelter: Lightweight tents or hammocks provide essential protection from the elements.
10. Sleeping Pad: Insulates you from the ground, which can become surprisingly cold at night.
11. Fire Starter: Waterproof matches or a magnesium fire starter can help in cooking and providing warmth.
12. First Aid Kit: Should contain bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, medical tape, aloe vera (for sunburns), and necessary personal medication.
13. Navigation Tools: Carry a compass and physical map of the area you’re traveling to.
14. Emergency Whistle: Helps in signaling for help when lost or in danger.
15. Light Source: Pack a LED flashlight or headlamp, and spare batteries.
16. Portable Solar Charger: Keeps electronic devices powered in the absence of electricity.
17. Food Supplies: Lightweight, calorie-dense foods like trail mix, energy bars, and dehydrated meals can provide energy.
18. Emergency Blanket: Also known as space blankets, they can keep you warm during cold summer nights.
19. Bandana or Buff: Versatile gear for sun protection, sweatband, potholder, or makeshift bag.

The list should be tailored based on specific needs, expected weather conditions, and trip duration, with necessities prioritized over comforts.

Physical Preparedness: Heat-Proof Your Body

Whether it’s endurance to withstand long hikes in the heat or strength to build appropriate shelters, physical preparedness is a key component of survival.

Heat-proofing your body, or acclimating yourself to hot environments, is a crucial aspect of surviving and thriving in the summer. The human body has remarkable capabilities to adjust to various environmental conditions, including extreme heat. Here are some strategies to heat-proof your body:

1. Gradual Exposure: Start by exposing yourself to warm conditions in small doses, gradually increasing the duration over time. This controlled exposure can help your body adapt and become more resilient to high temperatures.
2. Hydrate: Hydration is crucial in managing heat as it helps regulate your body temperature. In hot conditions, your body loses more water through sweat. Therefore, it’s essential to replace this fluid loss by drinking plenty of water and, if necessary, beverages containing electrolytes.
3. Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can also assist in heat-proofing your body. Many fruits and vegetables have high water content, contributing to your hydration, and essential nutrients to replenish what you lose through sweat.
4. Exercise: Regularly exercising in the heat can help your body adapt to hot conditions. However, it’s vital to be cautious and not overexert yourself. Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase the intensity as your body acclimatizes.
5. Clothing: Wear light-colored, loose, and breathable clothes to allow air circulation and prevent overheating.
6. Rest: Adequate rest is essential for your body to recover from heat exposure. Try to avoid peak sun hours (usually 10 AM to 4 PM) for strenuous activities and seek shade to rest when necessary.
7. Know your body: Pay attention to signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Symptoms include dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and nausea. If you start to feel unwell, immediately seek a cool place, hydrate, and rest.

Remember, acclimatization is a gradual process. It’s vital not to rush it and risk heat-related illnesses. It can take several weeks for the body to fully adapt to a hotter environment. Listen to your body and seek medical advice if necessary.

Tapping Into Nature’s Bounty: Summer Foraging

Summer is the season of abundance in nature. From ripe berries to nutritious greens, knowing what’s edible and where to find them is crucial. Remember, safety first: not all that’s green is good. “Foraging: Wild Free Food” (Homestead Lady.)

Here are some tips to help you forage effectively:

1. Identify Edible Plants: There are many edible plants such as berries, nuts, and mushrooms, that grow during the summer. Learn to recognize them and be absolutely sure of their identification before eating. A local field guide or foraging class can be invaluable resources.
2. Avoid Poisonous Lookalikes: Many edible plants have poisonous doppelgangers. Accurate identification is essential to avoid consuming harmful species.
3. Check Legal Regulations: Some areas may have restrictions or require permits for foraging. Always check the regulations in your area before you start.
4. Practice Sustainable Foraging: Never overharvest a particular area or species. Always leave enough for the local wildlife and for the plant to regenerate.
5. Foraging Equipment: Bring a knife for cutting plants, bags for carrying your finds, and gloves for handling thorny or tough plants.

Here’s a brief list of commonly found edible plants during summer:

• Berries: Blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries are common in many regions. They can be eaten raw or used in cooking.
• Nuts: Hazelnuts, walnuts, and hickory nuts can be found in the summer. They need to be properly processed before consumption.
• Greens: Dandelion, purslane, and plantain are common edible greens. They can be used in salads or cooked as you would spinach or kale.
• Mushrooms: Summer is a good time for mushroom foraging, but be extremely careful as many are poisonous. Chanterelles and boletes are among the edible varieties.
• Herbs: Wild herbs like mint, rosemary, and thyme can add flavor to your meals.

Remember, if you are unsure whether a plant is edible, it’s better to leave it. A wrong identification can lead to severe poisoning or even death.

Gardening and Harvesting: Embrace Self-Sufficiency

Growing your own food is a powerful survival strategy. Knowing the crops suitable for your local climate and how to maximize their growth can provide a consistent source of fresh produce. The long, sunny days and the warmth of the season make it an ideal time for a variety of crops to thrive. Moreover, producing your own food not only gives you more control over your diet but also connects you deeply with the natural cycles of growth and sustenance.

Gardening for Survival

1. Choosing the Right Crops: Opt for heat-tolerant plants that can withstand the rigors of summer. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, and corn are all good choices. Consider growing high-yield plants for preserving or storing over winter.
2. Sustainable Practices: Implement practices such as composting, rainwater harvesting, and crop rotation to improve your soil’s health and yield. Encourage beneficial insects and use natural pest control methods.
3. Adapting to Climate: Every region has its specific climate, and your gardening efforts should align with it. For example, in hot, arid climates, consider xeriscaping or using plants adapted to drought conditions.

Harvesting Wisely

1. Proper Timing: Understanding the correct time to harvest is crucial. Too early, and the fruit or vegetable may not be ripe; too late, and it could be overripe or spoiled.
2. Preserving Your Harvest: Summer is the perfect time to preserve surplus produce for the less abundant seasons. Canning, drying, and pickling are all effective preservation methods.

Embracing Self-Sufficiency

1. Seed Saving: One of the key aspects of self-sufficiency is seed saving. By saving seeds from your plants, you ensure a continuous supply of food for the following years.
2. Raising Livestock: If possible, consider raising small livestock like chickens or rabbits. They can provide a source of protein through eggs or meat.
3. Learning Skills: Learn and practice skills such as cooking from scratch, repairing, and building. These can reduce your dependency on external sources.

Remember, the journey to self-sufficiency is a gradual process. Start small, maybe with a few plants, and then expand as you gain more experience and confidence. It’s about resilience, resourcefulness, and having a direct relationship with your sustenance.

Food Safety and Preservation: Secure Your Summer Harvest

After a successful harvest, the next hurdle is preserving your bounty. Techniques like canning, drying, and pickling extend the shelf-life of your produce, ensuring year-round availability. But remember, warmer temperatures speed up spoilage.

When it comes to handling garden harvests during the warm summer months, understanding food safety and preservation techniques can be crucial for maintaining nutritional value and preventing illness.

Food Safety:

1. Harvesting: Ensure your hands and all tools are clean before starting to harvest. Picking produce at the right time is important too; overripe produce may spoil faster and can attract pests.
2. Cleaning: Rinse harvested produce thoroughly to remove any dirt or small insects. Be careful not to damage the produce in the process as bruises can accelerate spoilage.
3. Storage: Keep the produce in a cool place to slow down ripening. Some crops like potatoes and onions require a dry, dark place, while others like most fruits prefer a cooler environment. Never store food in the same place as chemicals or harmful substances.
4. Cooking: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before cooking or eating. Cook foods to their proper temperatures to kill any potential pathogens.

Preservation Techniques:

1. Canning: This method involves placing foods in jars and heating them to a temperature that destroys microorganisms and inactivates enzymes. This heating and later cooling forms a vacuum seal. The seal prevents other microorganisms from recontaminating the food within the jar and also helps prevent the loss of nutritional quality.
2. Freezing: Fast and convenient, freezing slows the activity of destructive enzymes. Blanching (scalding vegetables in boiling water or steam for a short time) is often done before freezing to halt the enzyme activity and preserve flavor, color, and texture.
3. Drying: This preservation method works by removing most of the water from food. This inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Food can be dried using air and sun if the weather permits, or an oven or dehydrator.
4. Pickling: Pickling is another preservation method that can add a unique flavor to your produce. It involves preserving foods in vinegar or fermenting them, which increases their acidity and makes it harder for bacteria to survive.

Remember, each food has its best preservation method. Understanding these techniques can provide a reliable source of food long after your summer garden has ceased to produce. Properly preserved foods can last for months, or even years, and provide essential nutrients when fresh foods are not available.

Hydration and Water Security: Quenching the Summer Thirst

The scorching summer sun can rapidly deplete body water, making hydration a primary survival concern. Knowing where to find water and how to purify it is vital. Whether it’s collecting dew, purifying river water, or creating a solar still, my water purification guide below is an excellent resource.

Building Summer Shelters: Stay Cool in the Shade

Shelters during the summer should prioritize protection from the sun and promote ventilation. Constructing in a location that minimizes sun exposure and encourages airflow is key.

Stick Shelter for Summer Survival | Coalcracker Bushcraft

Navigating the Land: Charting a Path to Survival

A survival situation often involves navigation. Skills like map reading, compass use, and interpreting natural landmarks can be critical in locating water sources or finding shelter.

Here’s a simplified guide to help you get started:

1. Understand the Basics of Map Reading: A topographic map can show you the physical features and man-made structures of your surroundings. Learn to recognize contour lines, scales, and symbols. Remember that north is at the top of the map.

2. Learn to Use a Compass: A compass points to magnetic north. Understand the difference between magnetic north and true north (which is what maps are based on), and learn to adjust for this variation.

3. Familiarize Yourself with the Terrain: Look at your map and the area around you. Identify landmarks like hills, rivers, or buildings. Use these to orient yourself and your map.

4. Learn to Take a Bearing: This means determining the direction from your location to another point. It’s done by aligning your compass with the map, then transferring this direction to the real world.

5. Follow the Sun and Stars: If you’re without a compass, remember the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. At night, the North Star (Polaris) can help you find north in the Northern Hemisphere.

6. Make Use of Technology: If available, GPS devices and smartphone apps can be useful tools. However, always have analog backups like a physical map and compass as electronics can fail.

7. Practice Safe Traveling Techniques: Stay on established trails when possible. If you must go off-trail, mark your route to help you find your way back.

8. Remember the STOP Acronym: If you’re lost, STOP (Stop, Think, Observe, Plan). Don’t panic and rush. Instead, assess your situation and make careful decisions.

9. Create a Travel Plan: Always let someone know where you’re going, the route you’re planning to take, and when you’re expected to return. This can be critical if you get lost or injured.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Start by using these skills on small, safe excursions before relying on them in a survival situation.

Health Is Wealth: Prioritizing Wellness in Survival

Taking care of your physical and mental health is key to survival. Maintaining proper nutrition, hydration, sufficient sleep, and a positive mindset are crucial during the stressful summer months. For advice on how to stay healthy, visit my health and fitness survival guide below.

Conclusion: The Will to Survive

“Beat the Heat: A Survivalist’s Guide to Thriving in Summer” highlights the importance of understanding and adapting to summer conditions for survival. Regardless of the challenges that summer presents, a survivalist is someone who adapts, overcomes, and thrives. It’s not the heat, the dehydration, or the summer storms that are your greatest enemies. It’s the defeatist mentality. Remember, the body can stand almost anything; it’s the mind you have to convince.

Thank you for joining me today. See you soon!

The post Beat the Heat: A Survivalist’s Guide to Thriving in Summer appeared first on Prepper Facts.

Necessary Requirements for a fire

Before we talk about weird ways to start a fire it is important for you to understand how fires behave and why it can be so challenging to start one in the first place. Don’t skip this part! You’re life could depend on this quick science lesson.

A fire is a chemical reaction. It is the result of the right amount of the right ingredients at the right time. Every fire relies on the combustion triangle. Each side of the triangle represents one of the 3 required elements necessary for a fire to ignite. If you lack just one of those components your fire attempts could fail and you could freeze, starve, or become dehydrated.

Oxygen

Oxygen is readily available so you don’t have to worry about carrying oxygen tanks everywhere you go. As long as there’s 16% oxygen in the air, you’ll be able to start a fire. This is why blowing on a flame helps. You are breathing out carbon dioxide, but also enough oxygen to feed the fire.

Fuel

A fire will burn anything dry and flammable. You will probably be able to find fuel for a small fire even in the wettest conditions. If you can’t find sticks, check your pockets for receipts or even dollars. Imagine this is the end of the world (and you could freeze to death without heat), you’ll be better off bartering than giving up precious fuel for your fire. If you don’t have those items, you may need to get creative. Undergarments will burn with a little prodding, even if you’re not at a protest. This could mean life or death so don’t hesitate to “burn that bra”.

The myth stuck, but cotton briefs are better

For the record, they didn’t really burn bras at protests because starting a fire on the boardwalk was illegal. Instead, the feminists had a designated “Freedom Trash Can” into which they hurled mops, lipstick, high heels, and yes a bra. After that the myth stuck. In this case you really could use undergarments as fuel for a fire, but cotton briefs would be best.

Feminism F.A.Q.s: Did Feminists Burn Bras?

Heat

This is where most inexperienced rookies fail. They think that heat comes after the fire has started, but that’s wrong. The initial heat has to come from somewhere before a fire can make more of it. Getting that first spark can be challenging. A newbie can often make lots of sparks, but can’t sustain the heat in the right place long enough to start a fire. Don’t be like the newbie.

When all three ingredients are properly set in place, you can get a nice warm fire. I’m not going to discuss fire building in this article, but the video below will walk you through 6 different campfires.

6 Easy Campfires Everyone Should Know for Survival and Recreation

Survival tip

You can use your knowledge of the combustion triangle to stop a raging fire. Simply remove one of the three ingredients and the fire won’t be able to continue.

We made it through the mini science lesson! Thanks for sticking with me, now let’s talk about 5 weird ways to start a fire without a lighter.

5 weird ways to start a fire without a lighter

Every prepper and survival site will instruct you to start a fire with friction. If you rub two sticks together long enough and fast enough then you will eventually get enough heat for them to light.

This is effective, but not cool enough for my list of “weird ways” so we’ll skip that option. I’m also going to skip the talk about flint and steel because you probably already have those items in your bugout bag. This article is about weird and unusual ways to start a fire using everyday objects that you might find after a disaster.

1- Start a fire from water

I simply cannot stress enough the importance of having some clear plastic bottles of water. We usually associate water with putting out fires so this might be the most ironic ignition method of all. You can start a fire with water by using a clear bottle as a lens to concentrate sunlight. In fact, some roadside brushfires are actually caused by bottles filled with fluid that concentrated the sunlight’s rays.

The first thing that you should know about making a fire with a water bottle is that it is not easy. It takes some time and practice to learn this technique, but it’s worth knowing. This method is similar to making a fire with a magnifying glass. The water bottle serves as a lens that concentrates the sunlight into a super bright point which heats up the paper or tinder to the point of combustion.

You’ll need:

• A clear bottle (label removed) with a smooth, curved top, filled with clear liquid
• Tinder: paper with dark ink works best because it absorbs heat and ignites faster
• Full strength sunlight. If there are clouds or it is later in the day then your efforts could go unrewarded.

Instructions:

1. Tear two pieces of paper in half, fold, set aside.
2. Fold a third piece of paper in half 3 times. If your paper has dark ink, make sure that that it is visible along the longest unfolded edge.
3. Hold the bottle in such a way that the sunlight passes through the curved top and creates a focused beam on the paper.
4. Steadily hold the bottle until the sunlight burns a quarter-sized hole in the paper.
5. Set the bottle down and place a piece of the reserved paper over the burn hole.
6. Keep adding paper when the hole burns through until the paper ignites.

Start a Fire With a Water Bottle

2- Steel wool and batteries

You will often hear me say that you should always have steel wool nearby. Steel wool has tons of everyday uses, is lightweight, and is especially handy for survival. In this case you can use a battery and steel wool to start a fire. This method is straightforward, fast, and really cool to watch. The best part is that it can work in wet conditions as long as your tinder material is dry.

Many prepper sites will say that this isn’t really a survival technique because you’re unlikely to have steel wool and a battery with you. This is your sign from the universe to start carrying a little steel wool pad with you and to also have 9 volt batteries. You never know when those items will come in handy and they have multiple uses. In a real emergency, if you have a cellphone or any electronic device, then you already have a battery.

You’ll need:

• Steel Wool– To do this right, you need to start with the finest grade of steel wool that you can find. Search for 00-grade steel wool or 000-grade.
• Battery– Almost any kind of battery will work. You should try to go with at least a 9 volt battery to ensure that it has enough juice. If you don’t have a 9-v then consider bringing out the burner phones and using a cellphone battery or multiple smaller batteries connected together (two C’s or D batteries connected end-to-end.)

Instructions:

1. Pull apart the steel wool and fluff it up. You need plenty of surface area and oxygen, but don’t get carried away. The strands still need to be somewhat close in order to ignite each other. Make it a little fluffy and spread it out.
2. Collect tinder. Not the dating app. The material. Place your dry tinder in a location away from drafts.
3. Place the fluffy steel wool on top of the tinder. Create a little pocket by tucking the edges into and under your tinder pile. You want to make sure that your tinder is connected to the steel wool fluff, hence the tucking. If the steel wool isn’t tucked in, then it’s likely to burn out on top and leave your tinder untouched.
4. Connect both the positive and negative contacts of the battery to the steel wool. This will be easy if you’re using a 9 volt. Simply tap the contact end against the steel wool in multiple areas. Pull your hand back quickly because it will ignite instantly. Start adding small bits of tinder on top and feed the fire as you normally would.

Survival- Starting a Fire with Steel Wool & 9V Battery!

I found a ton of videos that demonstrate this process, but the “problem” is that they were all done with a 9 volt battery. That’s honestly kind of lame and might not be helpful if you don’t have a 9V. It’s a common misconception that this method will only work with a 9 volt battery and luckily that’s not true.

It may take a little more practice to use batteries with connections on opposite ends, but it still works! As long as both connectors touch the steel wool at the same time, you’ll still get lit.

3- How to make fire with glasses

I’m sure that we’ve all heard about kids burning ants with a magnifying glass. Maybe we were one of those kids. Starting a fire with the power of the sun is just like burning ants with a magnifying glass.

This method takes a lot of patience and chances are you won’t have a magnifying glass when SHTF so you will need to find other ways to reflect and magnify the sun’s rays.

You’ll need:

• A magnifying glass
• OR broken glasses will work
• Kindling: dry leaves or a piece of charred rope

Instructions:

1. Collect your kindling. Dry leaves or small sticks will work.
2. Place your kindling in a small pile.
3. Hold the lens perpendicular to the sun’s rays towards the kindling.
4. You should see a small, bright dot appear if you’re at the right height and angle. This is focused sunlight.
5. Hold this position for about 30 seconds and a small fire should start.

*This process will NOT work if there is no strong sunlight. Also glasses for farsightedness won’t work. Strong reading glasses will work the best.

How to make fire with reading glasses

Heaven’s knows that I’ve broken my fair share of glasses in various ways, but now I’ll hang onto those old rickety lenses and pack them in my bugout bag just in case.

4- Soda or beer can

In a perfect world, it would be challenging to find a soda or beer can. Sadly, humans can be filthy beings and you can find cans almost everywhere. Forests, cities, and suburbs are littered with these items. While this is annoying in everyday life, the litter could literally save your life in a survival situation.

Keep in mind that this method will only work in areas that get a lot of sunlight. It’s still a cool trick to learn regardless of your location. I would even try it in the Pacific Northwest if I was out of other options.

You’ll need:

• One aluminum can A soda or beer can will work for this. Make sure that the underside has an unpainted, domed, aluminum surface.

Instructions:

1. Polish the domed underside of the can. Use a wet cloth and some kind of polishing compound. Polish the domed underside of the can. Your goal is to make the bottom of your can as reflective as possible. Clay or even toothpaste will work well as a polishing compound. I would say try a paste made from wood ash, but we are still trying to figure out how to build a fire here!
2. Collect your tinder. Create a nice tinder nest and place it between you and the sun.
3. Position your tinder and the can. Hold a small amount of tinder in one hand. Now aim the polished side of the can directly at the sun. Place some tinder near the bottom of the can and feel for the hottest spot while searching for the smallest point of light reflecting on your tinder.
4. Wait. Be patient because this could take seconds or even minutes. As soon as you see the spark and smoke, place your tinder on the nest and gently blow.

HOW TO START A FIRE WITH A SODA CAN !

5- Plastic bags + water

Another must-have item for my survival kit /bugout bag is a handful of plastic bags. They have so many uses! Believe it or not, you can even start a fire with a plastic bag.

You’ll need:

• A clear plastic bag. A plastic zip-lock or sandwich bad will work really well for this. Make sure that it is as clean as possible.

Instructions:

1. Prepare a tinder bundle. Grind your tinder into a fine powder. Sprinkle tinder powder on top of a tinder nest or a base plate such as a strip of bark or wood block.
2. Fill your bag with water. Next, fill your bag half full of clean water, but don’t seal it.
3. Twist your bag and create a water sphere. Hold the bag by the top corner and slowly twist the top of the bag. Push the air out as you twist to create a tight water sphere within the bag.
4. Properly position the sphere. Carefully hold the sphere over the tinder powder taking extra care to not drip any water. Move the sphere until you find the most concentrated beam of sunlight coming through the bag. Now hold it steadily above the tinder.
5. Wait patiently. At this point, you’ll see smoke and you may get a flame. If you only see smoke and a blackened area, add more tinder to the burned spot and refocus the sphere. The will heat the tinder from the bottom and the top.

Can You Start a Fire with a Sandwich Bag? (Cool Survival Hack)

Bonus item: How to start a fire with a flashlight

Even if you’re missing your bugout bag, I have a feeling that you’ll at least have a flashlight. Possibly in your pocket or on a keychain or in a work bag (note to self, put a backup headlamp in my purse.) Flashlights are prepper gold so even if you don’t have one, someone nearby is bound to have a light.

Don’t worry if your flashlight’s lens isn’t intact because it can still start a fire. This method is similar to the soda can process. It utilizes refracted light to focus heat. The main difference in this case, is that the tinder inside, rather than in a pile. This means that the light needs to go inward, not outward.

You’ll need:

• A flashlight. You really only need the reflective cup from inside the lens of the light. Even a non-functioning flashlight can provide this. Don’t attempt this with a very small pen light because a larger reflective cup is necessary.

Directions:

1. Disassemble the flashlight. Unscrew the head of the flashlight and remove the silver cone around the bulb.
2. Place tinder in the reflective cup. Place some tinder in the hole at the bottom of the cup. This is easiest if you push it into the hole from the bottom instead of shoving it down from the inside of the cup. You only need a tiny bit to poke up.
3. Position the cup. Aim the inside of the cup towards the sun. At this point, you should see light bouncing throughout the cup. Position it so that most of the light is aimed directly at the tinder.
4. Transfer the lit tinder in the cup to a larger tinder pile. Once the tinder lights, gently poke it out of the cup and blow on it. Then add it to your tinder pile.

Can You Actually Start Fire with Flashlight?

Conclusion

Now it is time for you to practice these fire-starting methods! They can take a little bit of practice, but it’s worth-it to learn these skills so that you have them when you need them. There are many different ways to refine your techniques. Try different types of tinder in different environments.

I know that when the time comes, you’ll be able to use your best judgement to figure out which method to use. Now you can start a fire without matches or a lighter, even without your bugout bag or the perfect bugout location! A little planning and practice could save your life in the future!

Do you know of any creative ways to start a fire? Have you tried any of these techniques or which of these methods are you most interested in? Comment below to share!

I hope that you enjoyed this article and that you learned something.

See you soon!

The post 5 Weird Ways to Start A Fire Without A Lighter appeared first on Prepper Facts.

Money will be worthless post-collapse

A lot of us are brainwashed into thinking that our currency will always have value. Just because the government says that the dollar is worth a dollar, who says that it really is? Also, what would happen to the dollar if the government collapsed?

I think that an item is only as valuable as the material it is made from or the use you can get out of it. Imagine a world without cash and credit / debit cards. How would get you what you need without currency? The answer is that you need to have skills or items of value that you can trade and barter with.

Barter Safely

There are important safety rules and precautions you should take when bartering. The sad truth is that when you offer items to trade, you are exposing yourself and putting a target on your back.

1. Don’t flaunt your wealth. It may be tempting to talk about how prepared you are, but please keep this confidential. If people know that you have the best stuff you will be a tempting target and that’s not the kind of attention that you want.
2. Switch your location every time. The key is to be unpredictable. This will conceal your location and make it more difficult for bandits and looters to predict your timing and movements.
3. Always keep a low profile. It is best to fly under the radar. You don’t want people to suspect that you’re hiding more than you let on. Be modest and never hint, boast, or threaten anyone.
4. Bring different items every time. Part of keeping a low profile is to be unpredictable and as anonymous as possible. You don’t want to be known as the “water guy” or the “egg chick.” When people get desperate for those items they may come looking for you and take what you have by force.
5. Never ever share the location of your supplies. It is imperative that you keep your location confidential. You don’t even want to share it with your most trustworthy friend. You might be able to trust them with your secret, but the desperate guy that happens to overhear your conversation may not be trustworthy. It’s not worth the risk.

17 of the Absolute Best Bartering Items

If you want to not just survive, but also thrive after the next big disaster, you will need to start planning now.

1- Water

Water is the most valuable barter item on this entire list. In ideal conditions, the average human can last about 3-5 days without water. Each person’s limit will be determined by factors like climate and physical fitness. The main point is that all humans require water to survive.

Desperate people will be willing to trade just about anything for a single swallow. You will have to decide whether you want to barter sips, ounces, or bottles of water just make sure that you have plenty of water that way you are never on the wrong side of the table.

In addition to water itself, you should also have anything that can contain, locate, and purify water. You can barter filters, purification tablets, or even instructions on how to locate water. It is also super valuable to teach other survivors how to purify their own water.

2- Food

The 2nd most important bartering item you can collect is food. As with water, every human also needs food to survive. The biggest issue with food is spoilage so don’t waste time thinking about milk, dairy, and fresh greens.

Concentrate on acquiring protein, calorie dense, and processed foods that can last for years. Canned, dehydrated, freeze-dried, and smoked foods will command a nice price. Save lots of room for beans, protein bars, protein powders, and MREs.

I really like ReadyWise Emergency freeze-fried food supplies. This kit has a variety pack of 104 servings and a shelf life of 24 years (Amazon Link.)

If you have the space, ability, and the way to conceal and defend your ground, then you can attempt to grow fresh foods. Potatoes, carrots, and wheat store the longest and have multiple uses. Consider saving and bartering your seeds rather than offering your precious veggies and fruits. If you have space for livestock, chickens are an excellent option. They are surprisingly loyal, hardy, and expert foragers and composters. When they stop laying eggs, you can make chicken soup! Eggs and chicks are invaluable bartering items.

3-First Aid and Medical Supplies

Medical supplies are a must because accidents, injuries, and illnesses happen and every person will need some kind of aid at some point. It is much better to be prepared than to do without. As humans we are vulnerable and it is only a matter of time before someone needs antibiotic ointments, burn salve, or some kind of pain reliever for a pesky headache.

Don’t focus solely on consumable first aid supplies. Make sure that you have plenty of room in your stash for bandages, gauze, medical tape, alcohol wipes, examination gloves, and other personal protective equipment (PPE.)

Your First Aid Kit SUCKS // This One is Better

4- Heat source or light

Heat and light sources will be on many wish lists when it comes time to barter. Non-preppers never have enough candles, flashlights, lanterns, and fire-starters. Thankfully we know better.

Visit this article to learn 7 ways to make emergency candles.

The Ultimate Home Blackout Kit for Emergency Power Outages ⚡ 11,623 Hours of Illumination!

5- Floss and Hygiene Products

You will hear me stress over and over again, the importance of stashing lots of floss. It’s one of those things that we don’t think about until we need it so here is your reminder: PACK LOTS OF FLOSS! Hygiene products are vital to have especially in a survival situation where bathrooms with hot running water are a thing of the past. Search for items that can store for a long time without degrading. Baby wipes and wet wipes will be in demand, but they don’t store as long as dry paper products. You will want to trade those items first.

Toilet paper will become a sought after luxury. Hang onto it as long as you can so that you can get the best trades later. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, FLOSS, and mouthwash will store for a few years. Stock up on these items for a good return later.

6- Feminine Hygiene Products

Feminine products are universally useful. Female preppers and survivalists aren’t generally the delicate and dainty type, but we still want to be healthy, fresh, and clean. I know that I would trade some of my valuable items if I were in need of feminine products. They also work really well as bandages in a pinch and a tampon can serve as a candle wick in a variety of ways.

Tampons may not be useful for everyone because not all women use them, but they are compact and you can store them for every so it’s worth it to have a few boxes in your stash.

Emergency Preparedness: Feminine Hygiene

7- Tools

After the world collapses it will need to be rebuilt and this cannot be accomplished without tools. You should have a wide variety of tools in your stash. Pack screws, screwdrivers, nails, hammers, adhesives, wrenches, and saws (to name a few.) You should skip electric tools even the battery powered ones. People won’t want to waste time and power on a drill when they can use a regular screwdriver. Plus hand tools are lighter and easier to pack.

8- Alcohol

You can accomplish more with alcohol than just getting tipsy. Many preppers keep a nice stockpile of their favorite top-shelf liquors for drinking, painkiller, wound care, and fuel.

Alcohol Bartering

9- Condoms

Let’s just be honest. Nobody wants a pregnancy of a baby in the midst of a catastrophe. That would take a lot more extra planning and supplies. Stockpile this little treasures and they will be sure to pay off at your next trade.

They last for ages and even if the expiration date passes, a condom is better than no condom.

10- Sugar, salt, herbs, and spices

Sugar, salt, herbs, and spices will be sought after luxury items. As people run through their food supplies, they will be stuck with dry and flavorless foods to sustain them and they will be craving some spice in their lives.

If you store salt in sugar in waterproof airtight containers (separately of course) they can last indefinitely. Spices and herbs have a shorter shelf life, but even if they lose flavor and potency people won’t really care. Some spice is better than no spice. Some good options are chili powder, Italian seasoning blends, and granulated garlic.

11- Honey

Honey can literally last longer than you can. I’m not joking. It will crystallize and change color and texture over time, but it never spoils. And when it does crystallize, simply put the container in some hot water and the crystals will dissolve.

Long after everybody else’s sugar supply runs out, you can roll out your golden jar of honey and reap the sweetest of rewards. On top of being delicious, it is a nutrient dense energy source that has many uses.

12- Hunting and Fishing Gear

Hunting and fishing supplies last forever, are easy to store, and you can trade them for high value items. Savvy preppers will want to snatch up your gear the minute they see it because it allows them to procure their own food.

Survival Hunting Kit

13- Entertainment

Entertainment will be much rarer than you think. We will be left with no internet, no devices, and no emails to write. At this point a good book and a deck of cards will be super appealing.

Be sure to store notebooks, pens, pencils, and board games in waterproof containers. You will be delighted by the offers that you get in return.

14- Duct Tape

Duct tape is a very versatile bartering item. It can last for years without degrading if you store it properly and it has many uses. Most people don’t store a lot of duct tape and they end up swiftly depleting their supply during a disaster. This is why duct tape will hold its value in the post-apocalyptic world.

10 Genius Uses For Duct Tape In a Survival Situation

15- Plastic Bags

Plastic bags and sheeting are easy to stash and pack. They take up very little space and have a plethora of practical uses in survival situations such as: quick shelters, sanitary disposal, water collection, and much more.

15 Trash Bag uses for Survival

16- Clothing

Clothing is a lot more valuable than people realize. You shouldn’t avoid donating your old clothes, but I do think that you should hang on to a few select items for your stash. There is always a need for coats, gloves, socks, hats, and pants especially when the grid goes down and the temperature drops. This is another reason why I can’t recommend the Big Island of Hawaii enough. You can survive outside even in the winter.

17- Your skills

You can work what you got and barter your skills and services! Many people underestimate the value of skills, but in a SHTF scenario, the knowledge and know-how is invaluable.

If you take the time to learn valuable skills now, then you will have amazing bargaining chips when it comes time to trade. Water purification / collection, hunting, fishing, gardening, farming, building shelters, carpentry, welding, foraging are all skills that people are willing to pay for.

It’s not all about survival either. People will get bored and if you can sing, play an instrument, or tell stories then people will pay well for your time and talent.

20 Items Every Prepper Should Stockpile (Food Shortage Preps) Barter Items

These are all items that you can easily get at a store.

Why didn’t coins and precious metals make the list?

The honest truth is that coins aren’t much better than paper money, and they are heavier. Very few people will be able to turn them into usable materials. Many people may disagree with me, but this also applies to gold and precious metals. As far as I’m concerned, if you can’t eat them, build with them, or use them as tools then they are worthless. Gems and precious metals are ornamental and do not offer intrinsic value to nomads and preppers.

If you want to stockpile gold and precious metals for when SHTF then go for it. Just make sure that it is well hidden so that your stash doesn’t get raided.

What about weapons and ammunition?

Would you rather be well armed or responsible for arming the weirdo on the street? I would rather keep the biggest and best weapons and ammunition for me and my family in a post-apocalyptic world. I’m not about to barter away my weapons and ammo. Keep your weapons for yourself if you hope to live to see the world rebuild itself one day.

Should you BARTER Ammunition? | What to Consider Before Bartering Ammo

Conclusion

This was not a comprehensive guide or an exhaustive list. I wanted to arm you with the bartering items that would bring you the most value. Everything on the list is either cheap or easy to acquire today. Most of the items are easy to store and will last for a very long time.

Now go spend your someday-worthless-dollars on some key items that will be worth a lot when society collapses.

What do you plan to barter with when SHTF? Comment below to share the items that you would share and the prized items that you cannot live without.

See you soon!

The post 17 of the Absolute Best Bartering Items appeared first on Prepper Facts.

10 supermarket foods that have a super long shelf life

1- Honey

Though it may crystallize with time, raw honey will keep almost indefinitely. In fact, archaeologists in Georgia unearthed the world’s oldest honey in a 5,500 year old Egyptian tomb. Honey contains a high acid level and is less than 18 percent water. This environment makes it undesirable and most bacteria and microbes cannot grow or reproduce in honey.

Honey has more uses beyond being a nice sweetener. It often helps allergy sufferers and can be used to treat wounds and burns. If it does crystallize, simply place the container in some warm water and the crystals will disappear. Ideally, honey should be stored below 80 degrees with a humidity level less than 70%.

I love to use manuka honey to make skin products / salve.

2- Salt

If it is properly stored, salt can last indefinitely. It can add flavor to your food, including the popcorn we listed above and it is perfect for preserving meat. You can create an electrolyte drink by mixing salt, sugar, and water. Additionally, salt works well as a cleaning agent and can clean many surfaces.

This mineral is one of the most useful to have on hand. The best way to store salt is in a clean and dry two-liter soda bottle. You can put salt in a 5 gallon bucket, but it will weigh around 50 pounds and this would be heavy to carry if you need to move it.

3- Rice

You will want to skip brown rice because it has a high oil content that will eventually cause it to go rancid. Luckily, most types of rice will last nearly forever when properly stored. In fact, archaeologists found the oldest farmed rice in Korea. 15,000 years old and it is still edible. Can you imagine that? The key to storing rice forever is to keep bugs out of it.

You can buy specialty buckets for storing rice, but if you’re thrifty like me then head to your local hardware store and buy some 5-gallon buckets with tightly fitting lids. Each bucket will fit around 32 pounds of rice. Take the rice out of the bags and put it into mylar bags. It is a good idea to add an oxygen absorber then seal the bag with a hot iron before putting it into the bucket. Put the tight lids on the buckets and store them at least 3 inches off the ground (pallets work well for this) in a cool, dark place.

The Ultimate Survival Food: Rice in Mylar 101 | Canadian Prepper

4- Granulated Sugar

You can still feed your sweet tooth while you are running from zombies, hiding from radiation, and escaping a hurricane! Granulated sugar will last at least 30 years when properly stored and IF you can keep it from turning into a rock. At that point, it can morph into a weapon. As soon as you purchase your sugar, you need to immediately take it out of the thin paper sack that it comes in.

Store your sugar in glass canning jars and make sure that you tightly screw on the lids. As long as the lids are secure, your sugar will be protected from moisture in the glass jars. If you want to diversify your sugar sources: confectioner’s sugar will last for about 18 months and brown sugar about a year before they both harden.

How We Store Sugar For Our Prepper Pantry ~ Easy Long Term Storage!

5- Beans

Beans are an outstanding protein source and they can be prepared in a variety of ways. You can easily stock up on your favorite variety of beans at the grocery store or grow your own. In an emergency, you can even grind beans to make your own flour.

While beans will store for more than 30 years, their vitamin giving qualities will start to fade after about 5 years. Luckily, they will still fill you up and provide protein so they are worth stocking up on.

Dry Canning Beans And Rice For Long Term Storage (How To)

6- Pasta

You can make endless delicious dishes with pasta. The problem with pasta is that it can quickly become contaminated with bugs. It has the potential to last for up to 30 years (10 years for whole wheat pasta), but in its original packaging, you would be lucky to get 3 years. Instead, use the same mylar bags + 5 gallon bucket storage technique that we used for the rice. That way, you can be sure that your pasta will be preserved and ready to provide some much -needed energy in an emergency. Try to store your pasta in a location that stays under 70 degrees.

7- Rolled Oats

In an emergency, probably won’t have much time for food prep because campfires may give away your location to and call unwanted attention to your hideout. Rolled oats + oxygen absorbers, stored in mylar bags in 5- gallon buckets could be the perfect solution. You will want to store your oats in the darkest place possible. When stored in the dark, rolled oats are more likely to last up to 30 years. Additionally, you can grind your oats into flour if you like.

Oats: A Sensational Survival Storage Food

8- Popcorn

If stored in ideal conditions (away from moisture and light), popcorn can last up to 30 years. The kernels have a very hard shell which makes them impervious to pests and vermin. Archaeologists even discovered ancient popcorn that is over 5,500 years old and still safe to eat.

Don’t buy the popcorn with butter or flavorings because it doesn’t store well. If your popcorn doesn’t come in a good long term storage container, you can store it in a clean milk jug or 2-liter plastic soda bottle. Did you know that you can grind popcorn into flour?

How to Store Popcorn Long Term Food Storage

9- Powdered Milk

The amount of vitamin A and Vitamin D in powdered milk will begin to decrease by 20% per year after 5 years, but you can store powdered milk for over 20 years so it is worth adding to your pantry. Do not put it in plastic bags because it will take on the plastic flavor. Instead, store it in glass jars.

Milk For Long Term Food Storage

10- Potato Flakes

Dried potato flakes are an excellent food source for the modern-day prepper. Potato flakes need to be stored in sealed mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. Storing them in this way means they will last 10 to 15 years.

Potato Flakes: Super Scrumptious Survival Food Storage Staple

Remember to pack multivitamins!

Make sure that you include multivitamins in your emergency supply stash! Unfortunately, this is often overlooked. If you ever have to depend on emergency food for a prolonged period of time, you may have gaps in your nutrition. You should do your best to store foods that have nutritional value, but this can be challenging especially since many of those foods expire.

The easiest way to fill in those nutritional gaps is to include a daily multivitamin. Avoid gummy vitamins or gel caps because they expire sooner than tablets. It is usually safe to consume vitamins beyond their expiration date, but their potency may be reduced.

Conclusion

These 10 foods are affordable, last for at least 10 years, and are available at your local supermarket. If you’re looking to create and nice little stockpile, these are the foods that I would start with. Which prepping foods are your favorite? What are your tips and tricks? Comment below to share!

See you soon!

The post 10 Supermarket Foods that Have a Long Shelf Life appeared first on Prepper Facts.

The Berkeley Composting Method, a sophisticated technique in organic waste recycling, has revolutionized the way we approach composting. This innovative process, also known as ‘hot composting,’ combines the intricacies of microbiology with the practicality of everyday waste management to deliver nutrient-rich compost within a surprisingly short timeframe. Originating from the University of California, Berkeley, this method has won accolades for its efficiency and effectiveness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the Berkeley composting method, its benefits, challenges, and provide a detailed step-by-step process on how to implement it in your backyard.

What is the difference between hot and cold composting?

Composting is a process that converts organic waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments, and it can be done through either hot (thermophilic) or cold (mesophilic) methods.

Here’s how the two methods differ:

1. Temperature: The key difference between hot and cold composting lies in the temperature of the compost pile. Hot composting involves maintaining a high temperature (between 55-65°C or 131-149°F) which speeds up the decomposition process. Cold composting, on the other hand, is done at lower temperatures and decomposition occurs at a slower pace.
2. Speed of Decomposition: Hot composting can produce finished compost in a few weeks to a few months, depending on how actively it’s managed. Cold composting takes significantly longer, usually between six months to two years, as the lower temperatures slow down the microbial activity.
3. Maintenance: Hot composting requires more active management. The compost pile needs to be regularly turned to maintain the high temperatures and ensure even decomposition. It also requires a balanced mix of ‘green’ and ‘brown’ materials to keep the composting process efficient. Cold composting is a more passive process where materials are simply added to the compost pile and left to decompose naturally over time.
4. Volume of Material: Hot composting typically requires a larger volume of material to start with, as the mass contributes to the heating of the pile. Cold composting can be done with any amount of compostable material, as heat generation is not a concern.
5. Pathogen and Weed Seed Destruction: The high temperatures in hot composting are effective at killing off weed seeds and disease-causing organisms, which is not the case with cold composting.

In essence, while hot composting demands more effort and materials, it produces compost more quickly and is more effective at eliminating pathogens and weed seeds. Cold composting, though slower and less thorough in destroying undesirable elements, requires less work and is more suited to casual or small-scale composting.

Composting: Hot vs Cold | UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento

Why should you consider composting?

Composting has several significant benefits for both the environment and personal gardening endeavors. Here’s why you should consider composting:

1. Waste Reduction: Composting transforms kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill into valuable soil amendments. This not only reduces the volume of waste going to landfills but also lessens the production of harmful greenhouse gases like methane, which is released when organic matter decomposes in an oxygen-poor environment such as a landfill.
2. Soil Health: Compost enriches soil by adding nutrients and improving its structure. It increases the soil’s ability to retain water and makes it more resistant to erosion. Compost also introduces beneficial microorganisms that promote healthy plant growth.
3. Sustainable Gardening: Using compost reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, promoting healthier and more sustainable gardening practices. Compost not only feeds your plants but also helps the soil sequester carbon, contributing to efforts to mitigate climate change.
4. Cost Savings: Composting can save you money on garden soil amendments and fertilizers since you’re creating your own nutrient-rich compost for free.
5. Education: Composting is a great way to learn more about the cycle of life, the importance of healthy soil, and the impact of waste on the environment. It’s an excellent activity for kids and adults alike to gain a deeper appreciation for nature and sustainability.

In sum, composting is a small act with profound implications. It promotes a sustainable lifestyle, enriches your garden, and helps protect the environment.

The Science Behind the Berkeley Composting Method

To fully appreciate the Berkeley composting method, we must first understand the science that drives it. This method primarily involves aerobic composting, where oxygen is a vital ingredient. The compost pile is managed in a way that fosters the growth and activity of beneficial aerobic bacteria. These microorganisms play a crucial role in breaking down organic materials into simpler forms, a process that eventually leads to the formation of compost. Compost Physics (Cornell Composting Science and Engineering.)

This composting method is distinguished by its high-temperature feature. This characteristic not only accelerates the composting process but also works effectively in eliminating weed seeds and pathogens, making your compost safer for garden use.

The secret behind the Berkeley method’s speed lies in the high temperature it attains. By maintaining temperatures between 55-65°C (131-149°F), it provides an optimal environment for thermophilic bacteria. These heat-loving bacteria tirelessly work to decompose organic matter into nutrient-rich compost within a mere 18 days. The Rapid Composting Method (Robert D. Raabe, Professor of Plant Pathology, Berkeley).

The Essentials: Preparing for Berkeley Composting

To kickstart your Berkeley composting journey, you need:

• Browns for Carbon: These are carbon-rich materials and they can include:
  • Dry leaves
  • Straw
  • Wood chips
  • Shredded newspaper
• Greens for Nitrogen: These are nitrogen-rich materials such as:
  • Fruit and vegetable scraps
  • Coffee grounds
  • Fresh grass clippings
  • Manure
• Water: This adds the necessary moisture to the compost pile.
• Air: This provides the oxygen that’s essential for the composting process.

Striking a balance between the browns (carbon-rich) and greens (nitrogen-rich) materials is vital for an effective compost pile. The Green, Brown, and Beautiful Story of Compost (National Geographic.)

In the Berkeley composting method, the recommended carbon to nitrogen ratio is approximately 30:1.

This implies that for every bucket of green material, you should add about 30 buckets of brown material. However, don’t get too caught up in the numbers as composting is more art than science. As you gain experience, you’ll be able to instinctively know when to add more greens or browns to your compost pile.

The video below is similar to the approach I like to use. I create a pile on the ground.

How to Make Hot Compost Complete Guide | Daisy Creek Farms

Building Your Berkeley Composting Pile: A Step-By-Step Guide

Now that we understand the essentials and scientific underpinnings, let’s dive into creating a compost pile using the Berkeley Method. This step-by-step guide will provide detailed instructions for both newcomers and seasoned gardeners interested in this composting technique.

Step 1: Site Selection

Your composting site should be chosen with care. It should ideally be an open area with good drainage and easy access to water. The site should also be fairly level and have enough space to accommodate a compost pile that can be up to 5 feet in height and width. Hot Composting: Step-By-Step Guide (Treehugger).

Step 2: Gathering Materials

Begin by gathering your composting materials. Remember, you need a mix of browns for carbon and greens for nitrogen. Collect enough material to create a pile about one cubic yard in size. Smaller piles may not generate enough heat, and larger piles may be challenging to manage.

Step 3: Layering Your Compost Pile

Start with a layer of browns on the bottom, and add a layer of greens on top. Add a sprinkling of garden soil or finished compost to introduce beneficial microorganisms. Continue layering until your pile is about one cubic yard in size. Try to maintain a ratio of 30 parts carbon (browns) to 1 part nitrogen (greens). How to make compost in less time (The Spruce).

Step 4: Watering Your Compost Pile

As you build your compost pile, add water to keep the materials moist but not soaked. Your compost pile should feel like a wrung-out sponge. If it’s too dry, decomposition will slow down. If it’s too wet, it can lead to anaerobic conditions and foul odors.

Step 5: Turning Your Compost Pile

With the Berkeley composting method, turning your compost pile is an essential step. Regular turning allows for even decomposition, oxygenation, and helps to maintain high temperatures. Use a pitchfork or compost turning tool to mix the materials. Turn the pile every other day for the first two weeks, and then every third day thereafter.

Step 6: Monitoring Your Compost Pile

Keep an eye on your compost pile’s temperature. The pile should heat up within a day or two and reach temperatures between 55-65°C (131-149°F). Use a compost thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature.

Step 7: Finishing Your Compost

After about 18 to 21 days, your compost should be ready. It will look like dark, crumbly soil and have a pleasant, earthy smell. The original materials should no longer be identifiable. Allow the compost to cool down before using it in your garden.

Benefits of the Berkeley Composting Method

There are several reasons why the Berkeley composting method is held in high regard by gardening enthusiasts and sustainability advocates. Let’s explore some of the significant benefits it offers.

Speedy Composting Process

The most impressive advantage of the Berkeley composting method is the speed at which it works. Traditional composting methods can take anywhere from a few months to a year to fully decompose organic waste. In contrast, the Berkeley method can deliver high-quality compost in as little as 18 days.

Pathogen and Weed Seed Elimination

The high temperatures reached during the Berkeley composting process effectively kill pathogens and weed seeds. This means you won’t have to worry about spreading diseases or unwanted plants when you use your compost. How to Make Compost in 18 Days Using the Berkeley Composting Method (Deep Green Permaculture).

Can I Compost Weeds? Gardens that Matter

Environmentally Friendly

By converting organic waste into valuable compost, the Berkeley composting method supports waste reduction and recycling. This helps in reducing the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment (EPA).

High-Quality Compost

The compost produced using the Berkeley method is rich in nutrients, making it an excellent soil amendment for gardens. It can improve soil structure, enhance water retention, and provide essential nutrients for plant growth (Gardening Know How).

Challenges with the Berkeley Composting Method

Despite its numerous benefits, the Berkeley composting method does come with a few challenges. Understanding these can help you better navigate the composting process and improve your outcomes.

Maintenance and Monitoring

The Berkeley composting method requires a more hands-on approach compared to other composting methods. Regular turning and monitoring of the compost pile can be labor-intensive, especially for large compost piles.

Temperature Regulation

Maintaining the high temperatures necessary for quick composting can be a challenge. If the temperature drops too low, it may slow down the composting process. Conversely, if the temperature gets too high, it can kill the beneficial microorganisms in your compost pile.

Material Requirements

The Berkeley composting method requires a large quantity of organic materials to begin with, which can be a challenge for some individuals. If you don’t produce enough organic waste at home, you may need to source additional materials.

Odor Management

If not properly managed, the compost pile can produce unpleasant odors. This usually happens when the compost pile becomes too wet or lacks enough oxygen, leading to anaerobic conditions. Regular turning and proper layering can help mitigate this issue.

5 Hot Composting Mistakes to Avoid | Epic Gardening

Overcoming Challenges and Maximizing Success

While the Berkeley composting method can seem challenging, these hurdles can be easily overcome with proper understanding and technique. Here are a few tips to maximize your success:

• Maintain a Balanced Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio: Achieving a proper balance between browns (carbon) and greens (nitrogen) is crucial. Aim for a 30:1 ratio. If the pile emits an ammonia smell, you have too much green material – add more browns to rebalance. If the pile isn’t heating up, add more greens.
• Turn Regularly: Consistent turning is crucial to promote aeration and ensure uniform composting. Be careful not to turn too often, as this can cool down the pile and slow the composting process. Follow the recommended turning schedule for best results.
• Keep the Pile Moist: The compost pile should have the same moisture content as a wrung-out sponge. If the pile is too dry, add water. If it’s too wet, add more browns to absorb the excess moisture.
• Use a Compost Thermometer: Keeping track of your compost pile’s temperature is key for successful hot composting. A compost thermometer can help monitor the temperature, making sure it stays within the optimal range for thermophilic bacteria.

Conclusion: Embrace the Berkeley Composting Method

The Berkeley composting method may demand additional effort and comprehension compared to conventional composting strategies, yet it brings several benefits to the table. From its quick decomposition process and capability to eradicate pathogens and weed seeds, to generating a rich, fertile compost, it’s a compelling option for gardening enthusiasts and sustainability advocates.

As with any skill, mastering the Berkeley composting method takes time and practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. Remember that composting is as much an art as it is a science. As you gain more experience, you’ll get better at judging when your compost pile needs turning, water, or adjusting the green and brown materials.

Embrace the Berkeley composting method, and you’ll not only reduce your household waste but also enrich your garden with homemade, nutrient-dense compost. Plus, you’ll be playing an active role in creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world. There we have it, an extensive look into the Berkeley Composting Method. This in-depth guide should equip you with the knowledge and skills to start your composting journey using this efficient technique. Enjoy the process and the wonderful rewards it brings to your garden and the environment. Happy composting!

The post Berkeley Composting Method appeared first on Prepper Facts.

You should never feel ashamed of being prepared

Disasters frequently happen with no warning and especially in our ever-changing, turbulent world, preparedness is never something to be ashamed of. Having a supply of water, food, toiletries, fuel, and other necessities is a really great start, but serious preppers will want to have at least two good Bug Out Locations (BOL) to head to when “SHTF.”

You should have more than one BOL because different disasters will have different safety requirements. For example, high ground is the perfect location for flood-prone areas, but being underground is best for avoiding the radiation of a nuclear war. Also, high ground is not the best for wildfire-prone locations.

BOL Essential Requirements

1- The Physical Location

• With in the range of a short hike or one tank of gas.
• Multiple access points available.
• Quick escape routes available.

The first step is choosing your location. It is important to look at simple logistics from the beginning. A good bugout location will be within hiking distance or well within one tank of gas. The farther away your retreat is from home, the less time you will be spending there. You might set the intention to make the 5 hour drive and 2 mile hike to work on setting up your bug out location at least once a week. And for the first few weekends, you might actually do it, but over time, you may get busy and run out of the motivation to make the trek. Also, if the worst does come to pass, if might be very difficult to reach your location especially if you have to travel miles on foot to get there.

Imagine the potential disasters that could take place. Is it easy to get to your bug out location? If the answer is no, then it’s not a good BOL. Make sure that you have multiple access points and quick escape routes.

2- Knowledge of Your Location

• Make sure that you can easily access your location without a map.
• Have a good understanding of the climate and weather patterns.
• If there are neighbors nearby, get to know them.

You must know the ins and outs of your location. Your BOL will be useless if you can’t find it or if you get lost on your way there. Take the time to visit your site often, thoroughly explore and hike the surrounding areas. I like to make sure that I spend all 4 seasons in an area. This doesn’t mean that you have to live there full time, but make sure that you visit the location a few times during each season during the day and also at night. A location might transform in darkness and it’s good to be familiar with all the subtle nuances. This is also a good time to plan where you will set up traps, hunt, and possibly store some food for a rainy day.

3- Seclusion

• A remote area that is difficult for outsiders to get to.
• Accessible year round, yet inconvenient to get to.

You don’t want your location to be easy to find. It should be off of the main roads and have plentiful tree coverage. You want to be properly concealed so that anyone who is passing through the vicinity would not even know that your place exists during the day or at night. Try to be invisible. This means that you don’t want your lights to be seen.

The goal is to be completely concealed from all senses. You will need to take special care if you build a fire because the smoke from a fire is visible from a long distance so it is best to do that at night. You should only cook at night and because cooking smells can travel up to half a mile.

4- Shelter

• The presence of cabins, caves, or cellars
• Something to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• Will withstand common natural disasters for the area

You will need a cabin, camper, tent, cave or other shelter that will keep you safe during the worst kind of emergency. What do you plan on living in? Keep in mind that it may take you longer than a day to reach your bug out location. Make sure that you are prepared to camp regardless of the season. If you can purchase a property that already has a house or cabin that would be great (the Big Island of Hawaii is ideal because it is remote and has a good climate year round). However, to get something remote enough to serve as a bug out location, you may need to buy land and build on it.

Prepare for a long-term stay

A root cellar type shelter is an excellent low cost alternative for creating shelter. It is a cheap, but labor intensive process that will benefit you in many ways. I like it because it is very easy to disguise and camouflage and it will stay cool during the summer. It is safe in most weather conditions except flooding.

5- Accessible water sources

• Potable water is an absolute must. Make sure that there are nearby lakes, rivers, wells, or other water sources that are available year-round.
• Must have necessary water purification supplies

Dehydration is deadly and happens quickly after a disaster and access to clean, drinkable water is an absolute must. There is no way of knowing how long you will need to stay at your bug out location so it is vital to have water sources nearby. You may be there for weeks, months, or longer and stored water bottles will only last for so long.

Make sure that you have supplies for purifying water in addition to a good cast iron pot, fire pit, and strainer to ensure that you can always provide clean water for your family. You will also want access to a place for bathing and washing dishes and clothes especially if you have to bug out for a prolonged period of time.

6- Available supplies

• Have the ability to stock your BOL before SHTF
• Your BOL needs some kind of secure storage.

You will need to stock up on supplies until you have a complete store of necessities at each of your bug out locations. If you cannot safely store supplies then you will need to find a solution. Can you safely conceal a bug out bag or install some shelving? Or build an in ground root cellar that is connected to your shelter? It is important to have a secure way to conceal your supplies.

7- Self-sufficiency / renewable food sources

• Game rich lands for hunting or lakes for fishing
• A food garden
• Good soil quality, sunlight, and irrigation source for growing food.
• A source of electricity (solar, wind, and/or water)
• A source of firewood
• Space and resources for livestock

Keep in mind that you might be at your bug out location for an indeterminate amount of time. You will no longer be able to rely on the power-grid and you won’t be running to the store every time you need to restock your pantry. We can only store so much emergency food at any given location. If there is a place nearby for hunting, trapping, fishing, and foraging, you will be much better prepared for a potential long-term stay. Self-sufficiency will be vital. You must have everything that you need on your property or be able to produce it.

8- Security

• Have at least one vantage point and one natural barrier.
• Good locations for alarms, traps, and weapons are a must.

In the worst of times, unprepared people will try to take from the people who have things. It will be important for you to have a place that you can easily defend. If your bug out location is well-concealed then you are well on your way to having a secure place. However, you need to make sure that it is not only concealed, but also difficult to access.

Be inconvenient and inaccessible

No one should ever be able to approach your bugout location without you being aware of it. Make sure that you know which roads and paths lead to your property and monitor them at all times. Is there a waterway that will lead to your location?

You need to have an intimate understanding of the strengths and vulnerabilities of your property that way you can plan an offensive that will keep you concealed while you defend what’s yours.

PRO TIP: Get yourself some sentry alarm mines then load them with .22 blank ammo and attach them to a trip wire.

9- Beware of Natural Threats

• Understand the potential natural threats of your area
• Plan accordingly

When it comes to the location of your BOL make sure that you understand the potential natural hazards and threats of the area. Is the area prone to flooding, earthquakes, forest fires, hurricanes, or tornadoes? Do your best to find a location that is as safe from natural threats as possible.

Sadly, not all of us have access to regions that are free of hazards so you need to assess the threats in your area ahead of time and prepare accordingly. For example, if your area is prone to forest fires then clear the areas around your structures so that the fires cannot easily burn them down.

10- Red Tape

Make sure that you know the requirements and government regulations. Does your property have specific zoning? What kinds of permits do you need to build on or alter your property? Once SHTF this will probably not be an issue, but you’ll want to deal with the red tape before that happens.

11- Storage

• Storage solutions should be secure and safe
• Have multiple storage locations. Just in case.

You will need to keep your food and munitions dry and organized. It is absolutely necessary for you to be able to access your supplies from within your shelter. A root cellar that is located within your shelter may be great for storing food, but the damp conditions are poor for storing anything made of metal. Consider dedicating a dry room to storing your weapons.

Remember to stash a few around the land and in multiple locations just in case you are caught unaware. It’s also good to have an additional stash / bugout bag to grab if you have to make a swift getaway.

12- Bathroom “facilities”

• This is a necessity. Make sure that you have one ready before SHTF
• Your bathroom “spot” needs to be a safe distance from your food and water source.

Again, this is a topic that people don’t really want to think about, but you need to figure out how to deal with bodily waste if you BOL doesn’t have a septic tank. Bodily waste is a smelly bio-hazard material that can give away your presence if it is dumped in the same place over a span of time.

If you’re prepping for a long-term bugout a compost toilet is the way to go. It is easy to use, traps odors, and provides needed nutrients for your garden. Talk about not wasting your waste and making it work for you!

CAUTION: Never dump stool into a stream or close to your food. It will contaminate food and water and potentially spread disease.

Proximity: How close should your bug out location be?

In an emergency services and supplies will be limited and most people will try to escape at the same time. Keep this in mind when you are selecting your location. Ideally, you want your location to be no further than what one tank of gas and a short hike can take you. You also want to be able to get there within one daylight period.

Plan for the harshest situations and inclement weather such as extreme heat, ice/snowstorms, and flooding. Are you able to climb that steep bluff in the pouring down rain or in the snow? Is that windy road accessible during the December blizzards? Would you be able to make that river crossing during a flood? Take all of these different scenarios into consideration and plan for them.

When selecting your location, keep the proximity close and accessible in all weather conditions.

Supplies to stash at your Bug Out Location:

You should tailor your supplies to meet the specific needs of your family, but there are some basic essentials that should be present at every survival retreat. Here are some ideas.

10 Foods with the longest shelf life:

Available at your local supermarket. The listed shelf lives on the chart below are approximate estimations.

Water

• Large and small containers of purified water prepared for long term storage.

Clothing and Bedding

I prefer synthetic clothing because it is easy to wash and dry. Cotton panties will stay wet for a very long time and this can get uncomfortable. The list below is obviously a list for a fully stocked bugout location. I would never bring all of these items with me if I were on the run or backpacking.

• Shirts
• Pants
• Underwear
• Wool socks
• Belts
• Jacket
• Coat
• Coveralls
• Boots
• Hiking Boots
• Hat
• Earmuffs
• Sleeping bag, sheets, blankets, pillow cases
• Laundry detergent to wash your clothing and bedding

Toiletries (Bring LOTS of Floss! This is something people don’t talk about)

• Start stocking up on floss right now. I don’t believe in stockpiling a lot of items, but floss is something that I will stock.
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Mouthwash
• Comb/brush
• Dry body brush (useful if a shower or bath is unavailable)
• Hand and body soaps
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Lotion
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Deodorant
• Hair elastics, clips, headbands

Kitchen Supplies

• An aluminum or teflon pot (for boiling water, soups, and pasta)
• Cast iron skillet (ideal for grilling, meats, eggs, veggies, and toasting bread)
• A cast iron dutch oven
• Can opener
• Cooking utensils such as tongs, serving spoons, spatula, knives, ladles, etc.
• Plates, bowls, cups, forks, spoons
• Reusable food storage: mason jars, bowls with lids, tupperware, etc.
• Matches or lighter
• Fuel for fire such as cardboard, camp wood, charcoal, axe / hatchet to access more wood

First Aid Kit

• Insect Repellent
• Sunscreen
• Acetaminophen
• Allergy medicine
• Aspirin
• Tums
• Any prescription medication that you or your family requires
• Bandages
• Burn cream
• Ointment / healing gels
• essential oils
• Arnica
• Epsom salt
• Anti-bug sting cream

Weapons:

• Bear spray (works really well on people too)
• Pepper spray
• Guns
• Ammunition
• Bow and Arrows
• Rope
• Fire Extinguisher

Gardening Supplies:

• Loppers
• Shovel
• Buckets
• Seeds
• PVC pipe (if you need to create an irrigation system)
• Pruners

Fishing and Hunting Supplies:

• Fishing Poles
• Extra string
• Long-lasting bait (or the ability to dig up your own bait)
• Additional leads, bobbers, hooks, and sinkers
• A good knife (for filleting, field dressing, and skinning)
• A strong pair of shears
• Trash bags (for meat)
• Ziploc bags (for innards, liver, heart, and other organs you want to save)
• Hunting rifle
• Rope
• Cooler

Bug out location checklist:

1. Easy to access in all weather.
2. Well concealed, off the highway, maybe on a dirt road that you haven’t talked about on Facebook.
3. Multiple access points.
4. Multiple escape routes.
5. Property touches or is near state or public land.
6. Has a sufficient shelter.
7. Has at least one lookout /vantage point.
8. At least one natural barrier such as a cliff, mountain, river, etc.
9. Lots of storage.
10. Storage can be stocked before a natural disaster.
11. Has a water source nearby such as a stream, lake, or well.
12. Available renewable food sources such as fishing, hunting, foraging, or available farming.
13. Access to a latrine.
14. You are very knowledgeable of the area and can access the location without a map.
15. The location is at a low risk or highly prepared for a natural disaster.

Buying a Bug Out Location

There are a number of ways to find a good bug out property. Talk with a local real estate agent and search for wooded lots or fishing or hunting cabins nearby. These cabins would be well equipped with some of the aspects we discussed above and additional features like access roads, cooking equipment, and septic / toilets.

Make it a point to personally visit any potential property. Bring a real estate agent or someone that you trust. You need to make sure that it is exactly what you expect and if someone is selling it for a good price you need to know why. There might be a negative aspect that you cannot see online. It is best to buy your land in cash and keep it a secret.

If there are no cabins nearby, you can also look at public land. National forests are better than national parks. Get some topographical maps and look for secluded areas that have good access to water.

Where can you find your perfect BOL Getaway?

1. Craigslist is a great place to find listings that aren’t real estate agent’s sites. There are listings that often include very remote plots of land.
2. Word of mouth. Speak with locals in the area that you plan to bug out. Of course you shouldn’t talk about your specific bug out plans, but you can chat with them about different areas and lots that might be fore sale.
3. Survival Realty. This might be the best place to find your BOL. They work nationally with both real estate agents and owners who are selling very remote properties.
4. Land.com boasts that it is America’s number one source for off-grid properties, farms, and ranches.
5. Survivalist.com lists isolated areas for sale across America.
6. United Country Real Estate offers land for sale in the US, Mexico, and Panama.
7. You can also search nationwide real estate websites like Zillow, Redfin, Realtor, and Trulia.

A good bugout location is accessible all year round and easy for you to find, well-hidden and difficult for others to detect. Keep it a secret so that others don’t show up during a disaster and raid your stash.

Conclusion

Just imagine the sense of peace and reassurance you will have once you have a bugout location that meets all of these requirements. What do you look for in a bug out location? Would you stay close to home or completely relocate? Comment below to share!

Thanks for joining me today!

The post How to Find the Best Bug Out Location (BOL) appeared first on Prepper Facts.

Urine is not completely sterile as some folks suggest. It contains toxins and bacteria that were already present in your body before being flushed out. While these contaminants are unlikely to directly harm you by themselves, they can put additional strain on your kidneys and immune system. This may eventually lead to health complications. If survival is your goal (as it should be for everyone), before you take a sip of the golden brew (ew), let’s take a closer look.

Can you drink urine?

Technically yes, but you should abstain in most cases (I’m not suggesting that it’s enjoyable… Not all golden things are good.) You may find websites and people who praise the magical qualities of drinking your own urine to treat or prevent issues. Remember to take everything that you hear or read on the internet with a grain of salt. Even medical professionals tend to agree that it’s not a good idea. The Army Field manual (PDF) for Survival, Evasion, and Recovery specifically lists urine on it’s “DO NOT DRINK” list followed by fish juices, blood, seawater, and alcohol.

This advice would be very easy to heed for people who carry jugs of water everywhere they go, but what if (heaven forbid)you find yourself in a survival situation where consuming pee is your only option? The “good news” is that it might work as a last ditch effort, but the bad news is that the benefits wouldn’t last for long.

It’s not without it’s risks

There are stories of survivors who have survived horrendous accidents and have said that they drank their urine to survive. This includes American mountaineer and mechanical engineer, Aron Ralston, who amputated his own arm in 2003 to escape a boulder in a Utah canyon. However, this practice is not widely advised as a survival technique. Think about it, how many articles have you read about the lasting effects on those survivor’s bodies? Probably not many because people don’t want to talk about the possible repercussions of drinking pee. I have to admit that I was even personally apprehensive to write this article at first. I’m glad that I decided to proceed with my writing because I think that it is important to talk about it since I plan on covering ALL aspects of prepping and survival.

Drinking urine can be especially risky for survivors of crashes or crushing injuries. When the muscle fibers are damaged, the cells can start leaking phosphorous and potassium into the bloodstream. Even a survivor with healthy kidneys may not be able to flush out the dangerous build-up. Someone who has been drinking their own urine would be at an even greater risk. For this same reason, a person who drinks urine should stay away from high potassium foods like bananas.

Is it safe to drink urine for survival?

As a super short term solution and absolute last resort, yes. Keep in mind that drinking urine for an extended period of time is a bad idea. The whole purpose of your kidneys is to filter waste products from your body then excrete them through urine. Your pee is composed of 95% water which sounds great when you’re dying of thirst, but the remaining 5% has the potential to kill you in slow and painful ways.

What is urine composed of?

• Sodium
• Urea
• Nitrogen
• Potassium
• Creatine
• Ammonia
• Hormones

That’s the short list, but the full list has over 3,000 compounds! Every individual person has their own unique recipe based on their overall health and what they put into their bodies. This stuff could be harmless in small doses. The problems start creeping up after the prolonged consumption of urine and it becomes more concentrated with each trip through your kidneys.

If you’ve reached the point where you are considering urine as a hydration option, then you are probably extremely dehydrated and your kidneys won’t be able to process the minerals in such concentrated amounts. In addition to the growing danger of bacterial infections, subsisting on your own urine for a prolonged or even abbreviated stretch of time can cause catastrophic damage to your kidneys.

Wait, isn’t urine sterile?

I hate to kill this myth and crush the hopes of all the pro-pee peeps out there, but urine is not sterile. You should NOT use it to dissolve sea urchin quills, treat jellyfish stings, rub it in your wounds, or use it to clear your sinuses. Sorry, not sorry (I usually hate this phrase, but it feels appropriate here.) ??

Is It Safe To Drink Your Urine? | Seeker

This bad information was unintentionally spread in the 1950’s during a study of urinary tract infections (UTIs.) Samples that had no UTI bacteria were labeled as “negative.” That label only referred to UTI bacteria, but not all bacteria. Unfortunately enough people assumed that “negative” meant sterile, hence the myth. Yikes!

Your bladder and urethra are lined with bacteria so when urine passes through your system it picks things up along the way. Where do you think all the bacteria goes when you drink your pee? It’s probably worth noting that while urine isn’t sterile, the bacteria is generally harmless to you. As with any “harmless substance,” bacteria can multiply and become too difficult for your immune system to fight. That coupled with dehydration, malnutrition, and exhaustion really works against your survival.

Is it safe to drink other people’s urine?

I never thought that I would be asking and answering these kinds of questions, but here we are. There aren’t huge differences between drinking your urine and someone else’s, but there things to keep in mind. When you pour from your own source, you’re reintroducing waste and bacteria that already existed in your body. You’re unlikely to contract a new disease by drinking your own fresh urine, but aged urine is another story.

However, if you drink someone else’s urine, you will be exposed to their unique blend of toxins, waste, and bacteria. What is harmless to your friend may be harmful to you. Before taking of sip of your friend’s urine ask them ask them if they have already been drinking their urine and for how long. As we discussed earlier, urine becomes more concentrated every time the kidneys have to filter it. If they have been drinking urine for 3 or more days, skip it because you won’t be getting 95% water. Instead, it will be recycled waste products that have been concentrated into something toxic and dangerous.

Beware the Presence of Prescription Medications

Preppers are known to keep a supply of medications in their stash. This means that even 5 days into a disaster they will likely still be taking their prescription meds. Prescriptions like heart medicine are necessary for their survival, but they could kill you.

Will it make you sick?

If you drink urine for survival you could get very ill. Whether it be from the buildup of concentrated minerals that your kidneys cannot filter or a growing colony of bacteria, you could end up worse off than if you never drank urine in the first place. At the same time, if you cannot find any other source of water and you risk dying from dehydration, then it might be worth the risk of infection, to survive another day.

What are the side effects of drinking urine?

Now that we’ve made it this far, let’s talk about the side effects.

• Dehydration- Drinking urine can be just as bad as drinking seawater. With each pass through your kidneys, the urine contains more sodium and less water. High sodium levels can make dehydration symptoms worse or trigger more symptoms sooner.
• Gastrointestinal issues- Drinking urine can cause mental and physical reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, and a general feeling of illness. There isn’t much you can do about the mental yuck-factor, but the real danger is in dehydration. If you are vomiting and have diarrhea then dehydration is inevitable especially if you don’t have a water source.
• Infection- Infection can occur when bacteria is introduced to existing bacterial colonies. This reintroduction could encourage them to grow far beyond normal proportions. It could also spark infections in other areas of the body. This is especially dangerous if you are suffering from injuries or mouth sores brought on from dehydration and malnutrition.
• Heart Attack- Continually drinking your urine can elevate your potassium to a dangerous level and cause a heart attack. This is less likely if you are healthy, but too much potassium is bad for everyone.
• Kidney Failure- Kidney failure is the biggest issue that could result from drinking urine. Once your kidneys go, there isn’t much you can do to reverse the damage especially in a survival situation where you can’t access medical care. Kidney failure happens when the toxin level gets so high that your kidneys can no longer function.

This all sounds really awful, but don’t lose hope. It is definitely not ideal to drink urine, but if you have no other option then there are some steps you can take to make urine safer to drink.

Does it help to boil urine?

Again? I never thought that I would be thinking about this, but there is some “good news.” Yes, boiling urine can make it safer to drink, but only if you distill it. This means that you will need to capture the vapors and condense it back down to a liquid.

Distilling almost any water-based liquid can save your life. American astronauts drink recycled water which includes condensation from their sweat, breath, shower steam, and urine. While it may not be as cool and high tech as NASA’s methods, boiling urine the old fashioned way and collecting the steam works just as well.

It’s important to distill it

If you were to boil urine and drink it without distilling it, then you would be drinking a more concentrated and dangerous solution than what you started with. If you decide to do this, make sure you follow the distillation process.

Will water filters work?

Water filtration systems and purification tablets will not work for urine. Water filters are rated in microns and a filter rated at 0.1 microns can filter out bacteria and parasites, but bacteria isn’t the major issue here. Also, many of the waste products in urine are too small to be filtered with those methods.

Activated charcoal is slightly better, but still not perfect. It can remove organic chemicals, but it will not remove sodium and sodium is what is going to cause or worsen dehydration. If you can’t boil and distill urine, but all you have is a water filter or purification tablet, then it can’t hurt to use what you have. Just know that you won’t have pure water and be prepared for the side effects of extra sodium and minerals.

When should you drink urine?

It’s hard to recommend a time that would be good to sip on pee. However, we are talking about survival here so I would say that if I have no other source of water and I can distill it in some way then I would take a sip after that. Another thing I never thought I would ever say.

If I have no way of distilling urine and have to drink it straight… I would wait until it was my absolute last resort. And hopefully we will be properly prepped and able to prevent this kind of situation. Only you can decide when the time is right.

It’s more important to consider the times when you shouldn’t drink urine

• People with crushing injuries should avoid drinking urine at all costs. Damaged muscle cells will release phosphorous and potassium into the bloodstream. Your kidneys already work hard to remove these substances, but if you add urine to the mix then you could quickly overtax them and cause kidney failure.
• If you’re already dehydrated then drinking pee isn’t going to help. You would put more sodium into your system and this would only make matters worse.

Properly prepare and avoid this situation

The best way to avoid the kind of situation that would put you in the position to have to decide whether or not to drink urine is to always have access to drinkable water. Plan ahead and prepare, stay hydrated, and make sure that you have a good grasp on several different water purification methods.

How long can you survive drinking urine?

There is no hard and fast rule. It is always better to err on the side of caution and use this as a last resort because urine becomes more concentrated over time. On the first day, you probably won’t have ill side effects beyond stomach upset and the yuck factor. You might even be okay after the 2nd day, but after that you could be at risk of getting kidney failure and other complications from dehydration.

It should always be your number one priority to find a source of fresh water because you can’t live on urine alone for any meaningful amount of time.

The end is here!

At this point, I hope you can understand how essential it is to have a reliable source of potable water. I thought that this would conclude my “water series, ” but I think that I also need to write an article about safe water storage methods and options. More than anything I hope and pray that neither of us will ever end up in such a desperate survival situation, but I’m glad to know that we are equipped with options.

What are your thoughts on all of this? Would you drink urine if your survival depended on it? Comment below to share if you dare.

See you soon!

The post Is it safe to drink urine for survival? appeared first on Prepper Facts.

Living in an era where the only sure thing is uncertainty, we are faced with the necessity of equipping ourselves with robust survival skills. Amongst these, the role of health and fitness often gets overlooked, even by experienced survivalists. “Your Survival Guide: The Critical Role of Health and Fitness” will delve into the vital significance of maintaining health and fitness as pivotal elements in your overall survival strategy.

The Unforgiving Quake: A Tale of Survival and the Role of Fitness

In a world where the unexpected can happen at any moment, physical fitness often plays a critical role in determining survival outcomes. It’s a truth we seldom confront until the need arises. This narrative unfolds the chilling tale of Jake, an ordinary man living in San Francisco, who found himself caught in the devastating grip of a massive earthquake. As Jake’s story demonstrates, the fundamental principles of health and fitness can play an unexpected and decisive role in our survival when faced with the harshest of realities.

Let’s begin with a vignette.

In the year 2025, a massive earthquake had struck the city of San Francisco. The tremors were so severe that the city’s infrastructure crumbled like a house of cards. Among the chaos was Jake, a 45-year-old man who lived in a suburban neighborhood.

Jake was an office worker, living a sedentary lifestyle with little time for exercise or physical activity. While he was not seriously overweight, his physical conditioning was poor due to years of neglect. When the earthquake struck, Jake found himself in an unprecedented survival situation.

The quake had brought down the apartment complex he lived in, trapping him and other residents within the rubble. While some were able to move through the debris and find their way out, Jake found himself struggling with the physical exertion. He felt his breath shorten and his heart pound as he tried to lift fallen pieces of concrete and make his way through the destruction.

After hours of struggling, Jake managed to get free from the immediate rubble, but the city was a disaster zone. Public services were not functioning, and the streets were in chaos. His home and most of his neighborhood were in ruins, and he realized he would need to walk several miles to the city’s designated disaster relief area.

All transportation and services were cut off.

With no transportation available, Jake had no choice but to make the journey on foot. The journey was difficult, navigating through uneven terrain, fallen buildings, and the wreckage left by the quake. With each step, his energy waned and his heart pounded harder.

The journey that should have taken a few hours turned into a grueling trek lasting the whole day. Jake was not accustomed to such physical exertion and soon found himself on the brink of collapse. He was dehydrated, his legs were shaking, and he felt a crushing pain in his chest.

Just a few hundred yards away from the disaster relief area, Jake’s heart couldn’t handle the strain. He collapsed from exhaustion, his heart racing then suddenly quiet. Despite the rescue teams’ best efforts, they couldn’t revive him. Jake, like many others, had become a casualty of a disaster that required more than just mental will to survive.

His story served as a chilling reminder of the importance of physical fitness in survival scenarios. His heart, unaccustomed to such stress and strain, had given out when he needed it the most, highlighting how critical it is to maintain a decent level of fitness, not just for daily life but also for unexpected situations where survival is at stake.

The Importance of Physical Fitness for Survival

Physical fitness is not merely about maintaining an appealing physique or achieving personal records in athletic pursuits. It’s a cornerstone of survival, ensuring the body’s capacity to cope with demanding circumstances, stress, and adversity—integral parts of any survival scenario. Physical fitness provides the stamina necessary to deal with both acute and long-term survival situations. Some of these may include enduring extreme weather conditions, moving heavy objects, or trekking long distances when needed “Physical Activity for Survival: A Systematic Review“. Therefore, incorporating fitness into your survival plan is non-negotiable.

Fit to Survive: The Essential Reasons for Prioritizing Health and Fitness in Your Survival Plan

1. Physical Stamina: In a doomsday scenario, you may need to travel long distances, often on foot. Good fitness levels will allow you to endure such strenuous activities without collapsing from exhaustion.
2. Strength: You might need to lift heavy objects, climb obstacles, or even defend yourself. Strength training can prepare you for these tasks.
3. Agility and Flexibility: These attributes can help you navigate through tricky terrains, jump over obstacles, and reduce the risk of injuries.
4. Food Procurement: Hunting, fishing, or gathering food often requires a combination of stamina, strength, and agility.
5. Immune Function: Regular exercise contributes to improved immune function which can be crucial when facing potential disease outbreaks or lack of medical resources.
6. Mental Resilience: Fitness contributes to better mental health, enabling you to handle high-stress situations, make quick decisions, and maintain a positive outlook.
7. Healing and Recovery: Physically fit individuals typically recover faster from injuries, a key advantage in a survival scenario.
8. Survival Tasks: Building shelters, making fires, and performing similar survival tasks require a certain degree of physical fitness.
9. Endurance: In a doomsday scenario, you may face extended periods of physical exertion with little rest. Good fitness can help you cope with such demands.
10. Coping with Starvation: Fitness, particularly muscle mass, can help your body cope better during periods of food scarcity.

Fitness Components Crucial for Survival

When considering fitness for survival, it’s important to focus on developing strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility. These components form the basis of physical resilience and will enable you to withstand and quickly recover from strenuous situations. “Quantity and Quality of Exercise for Developing and Maintaining Cardiorespiratory, Musculoskeletal, and Neuromotor Fitness in Apparently Healthy Adults: Guidance for Prescribing Exercise”.

The 4 Fundamental Pillars of Survival Fitness: Strength, Stamina, Flexibility, and Speed

Survival fitness is about more than just cultivating an aesthetic physique. It’s a multi-dimensional approach to physical preparedness, equipping you with the skills you need when disaster strikes. Looking good may be a welcome side effect, but the primary focus here is performance and functionality.

It’s important to understand that even those with impressive physiques may lack the essential elements to handle emergencies, both large and small. However, by focusing on the following four fundamental pillars of survival fitness, you can enhance your disaster readiness:

1. Strength: Necessary for heavy lifting, carrying others, self-defense, or even escaping a dangerous situation.
2. Stamina: Key to enduring long periods of exertion, such as bugging out into the wilderness with a hefty backpack. Without stamina, even a short trek can leave you breathless and vulnerable.
3. Flexibility: This can prevent injuries and increase your mobility, enabling you to respond swiftly and effectively to sudden threats or emergencies.
4. Speed: Crucial for those moments when immediate action is required, whether it’s running to safety or neutralizing an imminent threat.

By steadily improving each of these core components, even if just incrementally each week, you’ll boost your survival odds significantly within a year. This is survival fitness – your ultimate ally in times of crisis.

Building Strength for Survival

Strength training is not just for bodybuilders. It plays an essential role in survival scenarios by building your ability to perform physically demanding tasks without undue exhaustion “Strength training builds more than muscles”. Activities such as lifting, pulling, pushing, or carrying can be vital for survival, and you never know when you might have to move a heavy object or carry a pack for a long distance.

Action Steps to Build Survival Strength:

1. Resistance Training: Incorporate resistance training into your routine to develop muscular strength. Activities like weightlifting, bodyweight exercises (push-ups, pull-ups, squats), and using resistance bands can effectively build strength.
2. Functional Exercises: Prioritize exercises that mimic real-world movements and strengthen multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Examples include deadlifts, lunges, kettlebell swings, and farmer’s walks.
3. Consistency: Strength building is a gradual process. Consistently working out at least three times a week is crucial to seeing results.
4. Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or resistance over time to challenge your muscles and stimulate growth.
5. Recovery: Allow your muscles time to rest and repair. Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep and nutrition for optimal recovery and growth.
6. Nutrition: Consume a balanced diet with plenty of protein to support muscle growth and recovery.
7. Regular Check-ins: Monitor your progress regularly and adjust your workout plan as needed. This can help keep you motivated and allow you to address any weaknesses or imbalances.
8. Professional Guidance: If possible, consider seeking the guidance of a fitness professional. They can provide personalized advice and ensure you’re performing exercises correctly and safely.

Remember, building strength for survival isn’t about becoming a bodybuilder. It’s about enhancing your ability to perform essential survival tasks and improving your resilience to injuries or physical strain.

The Value of Endurance

Endurance, on the other hand, relates to your ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort. This could include anything from hiking for miles to escape a danger zone, to staying mentally sharp during a crisis situation. Effects of Physical Exercise on Cognitive Functioning and Wellbeing: Biological and Psychological Benefits”. Regular cardio exercises like hula hooping, walking running, swimming, or cycling can enhance your endurance.

How to Boost Endurance for Survival: A Structured Approach

1. Aerobic Exercises: Begin with low-intensity, long-duration activities such as brisk walking, hula hooping, cycling, or swimming. These are great to start building your cardiovascular endurance.
2. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Once you’ve built a basic level of endurance, incorporate HIIT into your routine. This involves alternating between high-intensity exercise and recovery periods.
3. Long Distance Running: Gradually build up to longer distances. Start with a mile and add half a mile every week until you can comfortably run 5-10 miles.
4. Cross-Training: Vary your workouts to challenge your body in different ways and prevent boredom. You might cycle one day, hula hoop the next, and then go for a hike.
5. Consistency: Endurance is built over time through consistent effort. Dedicate at least 3-4 days a week to endurance training.
6. Rest and Recovery: Allow your body time to recover. Incorporate at least one rest day in your weekly schedule.
7. Proper Nutrition: Fuel your body with complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats to sustain energy levels during endurance workouts.

Here is a sample weekly schedule to start with:

• Monday: 30-minute brisk walk/jog
• Tuesday: 30-minute cycling or swimming
• Wednesday: Rest
• Thursday: 30-minute brisk walk/jog with some sprint intervals
• Friday: Cross-training activity of choice (hiking, rowing, etc.)
• Saturday: Long distance run/walk, starting from 1 mile and increasing each week
• Sunday: Rest

Remember to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and frequency of workouts according to your fitness level. It’s essential to progress gradually to avoid injury and overtraining.

Flexibility and Agility: An Underrated Asset

While strength and endurance are often emphasized in fitness conversations, the importance of flexibility and agility should not be overlooked. These attributes contribute to your body’s ability to move quickly and efficiently, helping to prevent injuries and enhancing balance and stability—a must for navigating uneven terrains or tight spaces.

Flexibility and Agility: Your Secret Weapons for Survival

1. Start with a Warm-Up: Always start your flexibility and agility training with a light warm-up. This can be a brisk 5-minute walk or a light jog to increase your body temperature and make your muscles more pliable.
2. Stretch Regularly: Dedicate at least 15-20 minutes each day to stretching exercises. Focus on all major muscle groups and hold each stretch for 30-60 seconds.
3. Yoga: Incorporate yoga into your routine. It can significantly improve your flexibility, balance, and agility while also promoting mental wellness.
4. Agility Drills: Add agility drills to your routine. These can include ladder drills, zig-zag runs, or plyometric exercises like jumping and bounding.
5. Consistency is Key: Like strength and endurance, flexibility and agility take time to develop. Make sure you’re consistent in your practice.

Here’s a beginner-friendly weekly schedule:

• Monday: 20-minute total body stretch session
• Tuesday: Basic yoga routine (many beginner routines can be found online)
• Wednesday: Rest or light activity like a walk
• Thursday: 20-minute total body stretch session
• Friday: Agility drills. Start with simple exercises like side-to-side hops or forward-and-backward jumps.
• Saturday: Basic yoga routine
• Sunday: Rest or light activity like a walk

Ensure to listen to your body during these exercises. Never force a stretch, and make sure all movements are controlled and deliberate. Over time, you’ll notice improvements in your ability to move with ease and react quickly – two crucial factors for survival.

Nutrition: Fueling Your Survival

Fitness does not exist in a vacuum; it’s tightly interwoven with nutrition. Consuming a balanced diet ensures your body gets the necessary fuel to perform, recover, and thrive. Without the right nutrients, even the fittest individuals will find their performance and recovery compromised, and survival scenarios can become considerably more challenging “Nutrition: A Primary Component in Survival”.

Primal Nutrition for Survival: Shifting Focus from Carbohydrates to Proteins and Fats

While carbohydrates are a common source of energy, they aren’t a necessity for survival. Shifting to a more primal nutrition approach, focusing on proteins and fats, can provide sustainable energy and have numerous health benefits.

A primal diet often includes lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. These foods are naturally available through hunting and foraging – two skills valuable in a survival scenario.

1. Protein-Rich Foods: Hunting for meat provides a rich source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, and critical for body functions like hormone and enzyme production.
2. Fruits and Vegetables: Foraging for fruits, vegetables, and edible plants can provide an array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting overall health and boosting your immune system.
3. Nuts and Seeds: These can be a valuable source of healthy fats and fiber, providing long-lasting energy and supporting heart health.

Shifting to this style of eating helps your body become more efficient at fat burning, a state known as ketosis. This adaptation can be beneficial in survival situations where food access may be limited.

Remember, changing dietary habits should be done gradually. Before implementing any significant dietary changes, consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure you’re meeting all nutritional needs.

Hydration: The Silent Pillar of Health and Fitness

In the world of health and fitness, hydration can sometimes be an overlooked aspect. Yet, maintaining proper hydration is crucial for numerous bodily functions, including nutrient transportation and temperature regulation. In survival scenarios, where physical exertion and potential exposure to the elements are expected, hydration becomes even more critical.

Water is undeniably the essence of life, playing a pivotal role in survival situations and health and fitness at large. Not only is it crucial for maintaining bodily functions, but it also impacts physical performance, cognitive ability, and overall well-being.

1. Maintaining Bodily Functions: Water serves many functions in the body, including maintaining body temperature, aiding digestion, transporting nutrients, and facilitating various biochemical reactions.
2. Physical Performance: Even mild dehydration can lead to diminished strength, stamina, and coordination, impacting your ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
3. Cognitive Function: Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining concentration, alertness, and short-term memory. In a survival situation, these cognitive functions can be the difference between life and death.
4. Thermoregulation: In strenuous activities or hot conditions, the body loses water through sweat, which can lead to overheating if not replenished. Water intake aids in thermoregulation, preventing heatstroke and exhaustion.
5. Preventing Dehydration: In a survival scenario, dehydration can become a serious concern. Regular consumption of water, even when you don’t feel thirsty, is essential.

Remember, access to clean drinking water should be a top priority in any survival situation. Techniques such as boiling, filtration, and purification tablets can help make water safe for consumption.

In terms of fitness and health, aim for a daily water intake of about 2-3 liters, adjusting based on physical activity levels and environmental conditions. Hydration is a key pillar of survival and overall health.

Mental Fitness: A Key Component of Survival

When we discuss the critical role of health and fitness for survival, it’s not just physical wellness that counts. Mental fitness, the capacity to handle stress, adapt to change, and maintain a positive outlook, is equally significant. In survival scenarios, mental resilience can often be the difference between success and failure.

Fortifying Your Mind: The Role of Resilience in Survival

Resilience can be defined as our ability to bounce back from adversity. It’s the mental toughness that allows us to adapt and thrive amid challenges, to keep going when things get tough, and to recover from setbacks with renewed vigor. It’s not just about enduring, it’s about growing stronger through the trials we face. Resilience is one of the key factors that can determine our ability to survive in difficult situations.

In the following section, we will delve into the importance of mental fitness and resilience in survival situations. We’ll explore actionable steps you can take to build your resilience and ensure that you’re mentally equipped to handle whatever comes your way. Let’s begin by understanding what resilience is and why it’s so crucial for survival.

How to Build Resilience and Mental Fitness:

Survival is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Mental fitness and resilience can influence our ability to handle stress, adapt to change, and make sound decisions under pressure.

1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Regular mindfulness and meditation can improve focus, reduce stress, and promote a positive outlook. Start with 10 minutes a day and gradually increase the duration.
2. Stress Management: Learn to identify and manage stress triggers. Techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or even a simple walk can help diffuse stress.
3. Positive Thinking: Cultivate an optimistic outlook. Practice gratitude, visualize success, and challenge negative thought patterns.
4. Physical Fitness: Regular exercise is not just good for the body, but also the mind. It can enhance mood, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety.
5. Stay Connected: Foster strong, supportive relationships. In times of crisis, a sense of community can be an enormous source of resilience.
6. Continuous Learning: Keep your mind sharp. Learn new skills, pursue hobbies, and embrace opportunities for growth.

Resilience Training Plan:

1. Week 1-2: Start daily mindfulness and meditation practice for 10 minutes a day. Identify personal stress triggers.
2. Week 3-4: Add stress management techniques to your routine. Begin a daily gratitude journal to cultivate positive thinking.
3. Week 5-6: Implement a consistent exercise regimen. Reach out to friends or family members to strengthen your support network.
4. Week 7 onwards: Start learning a new skill or hobby. Increase meditation duration.

Remember, building mental resilience is a lifelong journey. It requires continuous effort, but the rewards are immense and vital for survival.

Coping Mechanisms and Stress Management: Game Changers in Survival

In a survival scenario, one’s ability to manage stress effectively and use coping mechanisms can be the difference between success and failure. High levels of stress can lead to impaired judgment, reduced concentration, and decreased physical performance, all of which can be fatal in a survival situation. On the other hand, being able to manage and reduce stress can enhance decision-making, boost morale, and improve overall resilience.

Coping mechanisms refer to the strategies we use to deal with stress and adversity. These can range from problem-solving and seeking social support, to practicing mindfulness and maintaining a positive mindset. Developing and honing these coping mechanisms can equip you with the mental strength to navigate through challenging times effectively.

Additionally, stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet can help in lowering the body’s stress responses, thereby allowing you to stay calm under pressure.

Remember, survival is not just about physical prowess and tactical skills, but also about mental fortitude. Investing time in building effective coping mechanisms and mastering stress management techniques can greatly enhance your capacity to survive and thrive, regardless of the challenges you face.

Rest and Recovery: A Critical Aspect of Fitness

Survival isn’t just about action. It’s about knowing when to rest, too. Adequate sleep and recovery time are fundamental to maintain both physical and mental fitness. It helps to replenish energy, repair muscle tissues, and consolidate memory “10 Reasons Why Good Sleep Is Important”.

Here are some action steps to promote better sleep and facilitate effective rest and recovery:

1. Establish a Routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to regulate your body’s internal clock.
2. Create a Sleep-friendly Environment: Make sure your sleep environment is dark, quiet, and cool. Consider using earplugs, an eye mask, or white noise machine if needed.
3. Mind Your Diet: Avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime as they can interfere with your sleep cycle. Also, try to finish eating 2-3 hours before bed.
4. Embrace Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga can help relax the mind and body, promoting better sleep.
5. Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Try to turn off these devices at least an hour before bed.
6. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.

By prioritizing rest and recovery, you not only improve your physical performance but also enhance your mental clarity and emotional stability, all of which are key components for survival. Remember, surviving is not just about constantly pushing forward, but also knowing when to pause and recover.

How to Implement Fitness into Your Survival Strategy

Now that we’ve understood the importance of health and fitness for survival, the next step is incorporating these elements into your survival strategy. This doesn’t necessarily mean spending countless hours at the gym; it’s about creating a balanced, sustainable routine that caters to your needs and circumstances “Exercise: 7 benefits of regular physical activity”.

Integrating health and fitness into your survival strategy is essential for ensuring your preparedness in the face of any challenge. Here are practical ways to do so:

1. Consistent Exercise: Prioritize regular physical activity that focuses on endurance, strength, flexibility, and agility. Even simple tasks like walking, lifting heavy objects, and doing bodyweight exercises can make a significant difference.
2. Outdoor Training: Make the most of your surroundings. Outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, climbing, and running not only provide excellent full-body workouts, but also simulate real-world survival scenarios.
3. Skill Training: Incorporate survival skills into your fitness routine. Practice things like setting up a shelter or starting a fire as these can serve as functional fitness activities.
4. Balanced Diet: Opt for a balanced, nutrient-dense diet that aligns with your physical demands. Learn about edible plants, hunting, and fishing to supplement your nutrition in a survival scenario.
5. Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink consistently throughout the day. In a survival situation, learn how to purify water from natural sources.
6. Rest and Recovery: Ensure adequate sleep and take active rest days for your body to recover and adapt to physical demands.
7. Mental Fitness: Incorporate mindfulness and stress management practices into your daily routine. They can enhance mental clarity, focus, and resilience, key components for survival.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you are taking an active step toward ensuring your readiness for whatever comes your way. Survival fitness isn’t just about physical strength or endurance; it’s about a holistic approach to health that readies your body and mind for any challenges you might face.

Creative Strategies for Bridging Fitness with Survival Skills: Beyond the Ordinary

While any form of exercise can contribute to your survival fitness, practical training methods – those that simulate real-world survival situations – can be particularly beneficial. Activities like hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and even practicing survival skills can help prepare your body and mind for potential survival scenarios.

Merging fitness with survival skills requires creative thinking and an adventurous spirit. Every day is a chance to prepare and enhance your capabilities for potential survival scenarios. Let’s explore some inventive ways to fuse fitness with survival skills:

1. Embrace the Wilderness: Turn nature into your personal gym. Activities such as rock climbing, river swimming, or trail running not only bolster your fitness but also help you adapt to various environmental challenges.
2. Task-Based Fitness: Incorporate survival tasks into your fitness regime. Actions like chopping wood can amplify your strength, while carrying water from a source to your campsite can foster endurance and balance.
3. Scenario Simulations: Make survival scenarios a part of your workout sessions. Imagine you’re evading a threat while hiking, or time yourself when setting up a shelter to add a stress management component to your training.
4. Survivalist Sports: Engage in sports that teach survival skills and promote physical fitness, such as archery or orienteering. Consider self-defense classes such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Krav Maga, which not only keep you fit but also equip you with crucial self-defense skills.
5. Collective Training: Join group survival workshops or training camps. They can provide physically demanding activities while allowing you to learn from the collective wisdom and skills of others.

By integrating these creative strategies into your daily routine, you weave the journey to survival readiness into your everyday life. It’s about transcending the conventional, challenging your limits, and preparing for the unpredictable, all while building robust physical and mental resilience.

Preparation and Adaptability

In the realm of survival, two principles reign supreme: Preparation and Adaptability. Like the two sides of a coin, these twin pillars create a comprehensive approach to survival that optimizes readiness and response to any situation.

Preparation: This is the groundwork upon which survival is built. Preparation encompasses everything from physical conditioning and skills training to gathering supplies and developing contingency plans. By preparing, you equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and resources to handle unexpected scenarios. Regular fitness workouts, learning survival techniques, understanding your environment, and equipping yourself with necessary survival gear are all integral parts of the preparation process. But preparation extends beyond the physical aspect; mental preparation, such as building resilience, managing stress, and making swift decisions under pressure, is equally essential.

Adaptability: Despite the best preparations, survival situations often present unforeseen challenges. This is where adaptability comes into play. It’s about your ability to adjust to new conditions, improvise with available resources, and make swift decisions based on the situation at hand. It involves being flexible and innovative, making the most out of what you have, and turning challenges into opportunities. For instance, if you lack certain equipment, adaptability is about using your survival knowledge to fashion tools out of whatever is available.

In essence, Preparation sets the stage for survival, while Adaptability choreographs the dance of survival, adjusting the steps as the rhythm of the situation changes. Together, they form the backbone of survival, each complementing and reinforcing the other. Both physical fitness and mental fortitude play critical roles in embodying these principles, emphasizing the intertwined relationship between health, fitness, and survival.

Remember, in the world of survival, preparation equips you for the journey, and adaptability ensures you can navigate any twists and turns along the path. By honing these twin pillars of survival, you’re not just surviving, you’re thriving, no matter what life throws your way.

Jake’s Second Chance: Surviving an Earthquake Through Health and Fitness Mastery

Let’s return to Jake’s story, this time painting a different picture — one where health and fitness play a central role in his life before the catastrophic earthquake. The day begins much like the one in our previous tale. Jake, a middle-aged office worker, finds himself in the heart of a devastating earthquake. But in this version of the story, Jake is different. He’s been regularly working out, eating a balanced diet, and practicing mindfulness to manage stress.

Strength in Action

As the shaking begins, Jake finds himself trapped under his desk. However, his consistent resistance training and functional exercises pay off. His developed strength allows him to push the heavy debris off him. He emerges unscathed, ready to tackle the next challenge.

The Test of Stamina

Jake needs to move swiftly through the wreckage and debris to get to a safer location. Thanks to his regular cardiovascular and endurance training, he is able to maintain a steady pace without getting too winded. His stamina supports him in this crucial moment, allowing him to navigate through the debris-strewn streets without exhaustion slowing him down.

The Role of Flexibility and Speed

In his journey, Jake encounters physical barriers — collapsed structures, uneven terrains, and narrow passages. His regular yoga sessions and agility drills come to his aid here. He moves with ease and agility, swiftly overcoming the obstacles in his path. His flexibility helps him squeeze through confined spaces, while his speed allows him to evade sudden aftershocks swiftly.

Nutrition and Hydration to the Rescue

Hours into his escape, Jake begins to feel the pangs of hunger and thirst. But he’s prepared. He has been following a primal diet and his body efficiently utilizes fats and proteins for energy in the absence of carbohydrates. He’s also packed a water purifier in his survival kit, mindful of the importance of hydration.

The Mental Game

Throughout his ordeal, Jake’s mind remains clear and focused, a testament to his mental resilience training. Despite the surrounding chaos, he is able to manage his stress, stay optimistic, and make sound decisions.

Survival Skills in Practice

Finally, as night falls, Jake uses his survival skills to find shelter, start a fire, and gather food. His knowledge and preparation, coupled with his physical fitness and mental resilience, have seen him through the day’s harrowing challenges. He goes to sleep, tired but alive, his mind already planning for the days ahead. In this version of Jake’s story, his dedication to health and fitness proves vital, turning a potential tragedy into a tale of survival and resilience.

Conclusion: The Intersection of Health, Fitness, and Survival

Survival is an art that transcends merely acquiring skills and knowledge. It’s a comprehensive approach that involves the harmonious intersection of physical and mental fitness, nutritional balance, and social collaboration. Your Survival Guide: The Critical Role of Health and Fitness is not just about preparation—it’s about forging a lifestyle that optimizes your health, fitness, and survival capabilities in harmony.

Whether you’re a seasoned survivalist or a newcomer to the practice, understanding and implementing the principles of health and fitness into your survival strategy can make a significant difference. After all, survival isn’t just about living through a challenging event—it’s about coming out of it stronger and more resilient.

Remember, your greatest survival tool is your body, and taking care of it is a non-negotiable aspect of your survival strategy. Health and fitness don’t merely contribute to your survival—they could very well be the deciding factor in your survival journey.

Continue to learn, adapt, and grow, for that is the essence of survival.

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Is there water in the desert?

Yes, of course there is water in the desert! Since you cannot see puddles, lakes, and other water sources, one might assume that the desert is a barren and dry wasteland. Thankfully, water does exist even if you can’t see it at a glance.

Animals and plants that live in the desert need water just like any other living thing. Even the smallest plants growing out of the parched cracks in the landscape need water to survive.

Follow the animals

A seemingly obvious way to find water is to follow the animals to their water source. While this may sound like a reasonable tactic in most survival situations, the problem is that larger desert animals don’t come out in the blistering heat of the day. In fact, you should avoid the blistering heat, too.

Tracking an animal at night in any condition is challenging, but it’s a nightmare in the dessert because it is cold, hard to see, and you are probably lethargic from dehydration. You can still follow creatures to water sources, but you will need to think smaller.

Flying Insects

We often ignore or try to repel insects. If you have the kind of blood that doesn’t make you popular, consider it a blessing because mosquitoes and bugs love to feast on me. I try to repel them because they carry diseases and can give bites that can get infected, but they are great water detectors. In the desert I would allow the flying insects to lead me to water. If you see them, there’s a good chance that there is water nearby. Bees are an especially lucky find because they tend to fly directly from their hives to the water. This means that you will spend less time searching.

Ground Insects

Ground insects are more challenging to find because they have excellent camouflage and they hide when they feel the vibrations from your footsteps. They must conserve energy because they lack the advantages of wings and light bodies. This means that they tend to stay closer to the water source. A one-off bug isn’t an indication of water, but if you see several bugs in a small radius, it could mean that water is near.

Snakes and Lizards

Snakes and lizards can set you on the path to water. It is easy to spot their trails in the sand and they often burrow or sun themselves near insect nests or high activity areas. And as we mentioned earlier, insects stay close to water. so if you find snakes and lizards, it’s only a matter of time before you will be able to locate water.

Birds

Birds are able to fly long distances and may hunt further from home, but they are still a good way to find water. They spend a significant amount of time hunting insects, lizards, and small desert rodents that live near a water source. Birds are like the desert’s billboards. If you see a bird circling high in the air, take it as a sign that water is nearby. The best time to find a flock of birds is in the early morning or right before the sun goes down.

Landscape features can help you find water

Search for dense, green plant life

Just a single plant is a sign that there is water. Of course, the more vegetation you can find, the better your chances of finding water, but you’re more likely to see a single plant first. Search for vegetation that gets thicker and greener. If you follow the signs, you might get lucky and find a lush greenbelt or an underground water source.

A Tree -any tree

Since trees take a long time to grow, you can be almost certain that water is nearby if you spot a large tree. Cottonwoods and willows are especially nice to find, but any broad leaf tree is a treasure because they often have water at their bases. If you don’t find a spring or watering hole near the tree, trying digging a hole near its roots and the hole should fill with water. Another nice bonus is the shade that a large tree can provide for you in the desert.

Check downed trees and stumps

Downed and dead trees often absorb and hold water. If you get lucky and see insects going in and out of a stump or hole in a tree, there may be water stored inside. Don’t reach in! That’s the type of thing that nightmares are made of. Instead, tie a piece of cloth to the end of a long stick and poke the inside of the tree. If it comes out wet, then you’ve hit the jackpot! Squeeze the water into a container then go back for a few more rounds.

Search around rocks

A rock is generally impermeable to water so you can often find small amounts of water hiding in and around rock formations. Look for dividing lines between rock formations and in any natural dips or chips. You can also check the ground below where the rock slopes into the sand or soil. Water may have settled underground near the rock’s base.

Dig in dried riverbeds and ponds

If you come across a dried stream, riverbed, or pond, you may be able to find water just below the surface. The surface water might have evaporated, but if you find damp sand a few inches below the surface, it means there is more water to be found. Keep digging. The best place to start digging is right in the bend because this is where the water has eroded the bank and probably got stuck and settled into the bed. Once you have a deep hole that appears to be moist, cover it (so critters don’t contaminate your water hole) and wait a few hours. When you return, the hole will hopefully be full of water.

Search for desert trails

Search for desert trails created by animals, dried up running water, or other survivors. It’s a good sign if a trail is well worn because it is likely that you’ll find water at the end of it. Make sure that you follow the trail cautiously because you never know what could be waiting for you around the bend. Animals, other survivors, or a dramatic drop into the sandy abyss could cramp your style.

Look around the hills

Water will always rest at the lowest point of the landscape. This means that if you see hills, you may find water at the base. The hill is still a wonderful tool even if you don’t find water. Climb to the top for a view of the surrounding area. Search for signs of water like trees, birds, greenbelts, dried rivers, or ponds.

Search North-Facing Canyons

Canyons are the lowest point and tend to fill up with water when the rain falls. North-facing canyons are an ideal place to search because they get the benefit of the shade throughout the day which slows the evaporation of water. If you happen to find water in a canyon it will probably be stagnant and mucky from sitting for a prolonged period. Make sure that you purify the water you find before consuming it.

Other Water Sources

Collect moisture from plant leaves

You can collect a few sips of water from a plant’s natural vapor. Simply place a plastic bag over a plant. Next, place a small pebble into the bag to create a dip for the water to collect in and tie the bag snugly around the stem. Check on the bag at the end of the day. While this isn’t a quick fix and you won’t get a ton of water this way, you could get a few sips to wet your whistle in the blistering desert heat.

How to Collect Clean, Drinkable Water from Plants

Can you drink cactus water?

I hate to tell you that Hollywood fooled us into thinking that the desperate cowboy could simply cut into a barrel cactus and drink water from it. This is a dangerous lie because it turns out that barrel cacti are NOT big, friendly barrels of water waiting to re-hydrate you. While, you can find some moisture inside of a cactus, it is difficult to get and it is not water. The liquid you could get from mashing cactus flesh could greatly tax your kidneys and increase your suffering. As a result, you could end up vomiting during a time where you need your fluids more than ever.

There is only one type of barrel cactus that won’t inflict torturous suffering. The Fishhook Barrel Cactus(Ferocactus wislizenii) can still cause some gastric upset and it tastes super bitter, but it is not toxic like the others. It lives in Northern Sonora, Mexico and South-central Arizona. You can also find them in New Mexico and Texas. This cactus can be identified by its thick (2 foot diameter), barrel shaped body, and long hooked spines. Its red / yellow flowers always grow at the top of the plant.

What about cactus fruit?

Once upon a time, in my early 20’s, I lived in the Bay Area of California and was thrilled to find ruby colored prickly pears adorning a giant cactus. I reached out to grab some and was able to fill a shopping bag of cactus jewels, but I quickly learned the prickly lesson of glochids and the reason why they are called PRICKLY pears.

Cactus fruit can provide hydration and some nutrients and is less likely to make you ill. As I learned, the hard way, the spines and prickly hairs can cause injuries and much discomfort. Quickly burn those off with a few seconds in a fire or flame. If you don’t have a fire, you can peel the spines away with a knife. It is honestly a long and arduous process that may not be worth-it if you have access to other water sources.

If you do opt to choose cactus fruit for hydration, they are easy to spot with their vivid red and yellow colors. I think that prickly pears are the best because they are easy to identify and grow well in a variety of climates. They are a staple in Central American diets and also found in the Southwest of the US, Australia, The Galapagos Islands, and in Northern Africa. They have also been spotted as far north as British Columbia.

How to Pick and Eat Prickly Pear Fruit

How to collect dew in the desert

Morning dew is often an overlooked desert water source. An individual droplet may not seem like much, but collecting morning dew could save your life. There are a few proven methods for collecting dew, but don’t be afraid to experiment with new methods along with the tried and true.

• Method #1: Hang clean clothing on a stick, plant, or rock overnight. It’s as simple as that. The clothing will absorb the morning dew and you can wring it into a cup, bowl, or right into your mouth in the morning. Be sure to rise early and wring the water out before the sun gets too hot, otherwise, the water will evaporate.
• Method #2: If you happen to have mesh inside of your backpack, clothing, or other gear, you can use it to collect dew. Remove the mesh from your selected source and stretch it between two sticks, trees, or rocks. Tip at a steep angle and stick the bottom of the mesh inside of a canteen, bowl, or other clean container. The mesh will collect fog and dew like a spider’s web. Gravity will help to guide those dew drops into your collection container. Additionally, you can use a cloth to absorb the dew from the dew catcher.
• Method #3: Cactus spines are not only designed for protection. They also catch water from the rain and fog and direct it towards the base of the plant. You can use a little cloth to absorb dewdrops from cactus and other desert vegetation. Squeeze the cloth into a container or into your mouth. This is a long and slow process, but it can keep you alive if you can’t find water anywhere else.

Use a stick to find water (Dowsing)

The ancient practice of “dowsing” has gone by a variety of names. Twitching, water witching, or simply “the gift.” It’s all about using a stick or other small object to find water. I haven’t personally used it, but I know other preppers who swear by it. It’s because of them and some interesting research that I have decided to include dowsing in this article. If I’m ever stuck in the desert with no water and no other options, I won’t allow skepticism to be the death of me.

Most experts believe that dowsing is a pseudoscience or old wives’ tale, but there was a German study that attracted some interest. In the 1990’s over the course of a decade, researchers had dowsers and geologists work together in several dry locations to test the accuracy of dowsing. Those researchers discovered that dowsing was surprisingly accurate. Additionally, well-drillers were able to find water 96% of the time thanks to dowsing techniques. Those techniques not only predicted where the water would be, but also told drillers the depth and how much water there would be.

If you’re curious and would like to give dowsing a shot. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Find a Y-shaped stick (think sling-shot.) The ideal sticks are 12 to 16 inches long.
2. Hold the short ends (the top of the Y) with one tine in each hand. Use an underhanded hold (palms up) where the palms and heels of your hands are facing the sky. Face the long end of the stick (the tail) directly in front of you.
3. With a loose grip, slowly move around the terrain.
4. Concentrate on the dowsing rod and when you feel it tug downwards, it means that you are close to water.

Some dowsers claim the tug is hard to miss and you need to tighten your grip as you get closer to water otherwise the stick will drop.

Do you know how to find water with a dowsing stick?

Drink your urine

I covered the topic of drinking your own urine for survival in great detail in a previous article. I know that it’s gross, but it is worth mentioning here. You can drink your urine for survival, but it should be your absolute last resort and you should take the time to distill and filter it. If your only option is to drink it straight from the tap with no filtration, make sure that you have exhausted all other hydration options first. Once you drink your urine, it is only a matter of time before it becomes dangerous and puts significant strain on your kidneys. Eventually, it will further dehydrate you. Drinking urine can buy you a few extra days in a tight situation.

Dig holes for water

You can dig a hole in any area where you believe there may be some moisture below the surface. Generally, the deeper you dig, the more moisture you’ll find. This is probably the most reliable way to locate water. Utilize the information to identify an area with moisture then start digging!

• If you don’t have a shovel, use a sturdy stick or a flat, broad rock.
• If you don’t have a shovel, stick, or rock, wrap your hands in your shirt to protect them.
• Dig approximately 1 foot. If the soil or sand is still dry after 1 foot, find a different location. If it’s damp, it means that there is water deeper down. Keep digging!
• Sand can swiftly fill your watering hole so scoop it out and push it away from the edge.
• Pat the sides of your hole to shore up the edges and prevent caving.
• If you don’t have a bottle, cup, bowl, or container, use your shirt or other clean fabric to soak up water from the source and wring it into your mouth.
• Always filter your water. Underground water sources are less likely to be contaminated by parasites or animal feces, but that doesn’t mean that it’s safe.
• Be patient. It may take a few hours for your hole to fill with water.

Finding Water in the Desert | Primal Survivor

Conclusion

If you ever find yourself in the desert with no water, don’t give up hope. With this guide and a little determination and perseverance, you will be able to find enough water to survive while you work your way out of the hot zone. Do your friends (and me) a favor and share this article so that they will be equipped with this knowledge too! You might save a life!

Now I would love to hear from you! Do you have some strategies for finding water in the desert? Please comment below to share!

See you soon!

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