Tag: bag

How to Prepare for the Next Inevitable Blackout

Sometimes a power outage occurs when you least expect it. Like on a perfectly sunny day or a calm evening. Often these types of blackouts are caused by an automobile accident, an animal or an equipment failure.

Other times an outage is no surprise at all. Such as when your area is experiencing severe thunderstorms or excessive heat. Or something even worse happens. Like a tornado or hurricane. Our aging infrastructure is no match for these types of weather events. 

There are even times when you’re absolutely certain a blackout will occur. Including when local officials have announced a planned outage to try to keep the electric grid from failing.

Regardless of which scenario leads to the next time your neighborhood goes dark and your food starts spoiling, there’s one common denominator. And that’s your need to prepare.

9 things to do

There are a number of things you can – and should – do to be as ready as possible for the next power outage. I’m going to give you 9 of them today. Plus a 23-item checklist and 4 additional tips and tricks.

And then I’ll let you in on a brand-new offer that might blow your mind but won’t blow your fuses.

The better prepared you are for a blackout, the greater the odds you’ll be able to handle it. Here’s what you can do prior to a blackout.

• Put together a supply of emergency food and water for your family. Start with 72 hours’ worth, then build it up.

• Build an emergency kit or bug-out bag. Store your kit in an easily accessible place. Consider having an additional emergency kit at your place of business in case a blackout occurs while you’re at work.

• Make a family communications plan and discuss it with family members. Conduct a dry run every few months to make sure everyone is ready to carry out the plan.

• Fill plastic containers with water and place them in the refrigerator and freezer. Leave an inch of space inside each one, as water expands as it freezes. This chilled or frozen water will help keep food cold during a temporary outage.

• Be aware that most medication requiring refrigeration can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist.

• Keep your car tank as full as possible. Gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. In addition to being your emergency transportation, your car could also be your charging system and the only air conditioning or heating you’ll have.

• Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it.

• Keep all your electronic devices fully charged. You may soon be counting on their batteries.

• Get a good supply of cash. Some stores may not be able to process credit card and debit card purchases. Cash machines may not work.     

Your blackout checklist

Here’s a list of items you should stockpile to be ready for a power outage. Hopefully you can ride out this crisis at home. But be prepared to bug out if necessary.

• Back-up power. A portable, solar-powered generator will help you keep some lights on and power some appliances. Power banks are perfect for smaller electronic devices.
• Nutritious non-perishable food with a long shelf life. Make sure to include plenty of variety, which is especially important in a longer blackout.
• At least 1½ gallons of water per person per day. And a water purification system.
• A hand-crank emergency weather radio
• Flashlights kept in various places in your home and extra batteries
• First-aid kit and instructions
• Personal hygiene items
• Special needs items for children, seniors and those with disabilities
• Pet supplies, including food, litter, etc.
• Manual can opener and cooking supplies, plus disposable utensils and dinnerware
• Warm clothes and rain gear for each family member. Blankets, pillows and sleeping bags.
• Heavy work gloves and boots
• Plastic sheeting, duct tape and a utility knife
• Tools, including a crowbar
• Heavy-duty plastic bags and a plastic bucket for waste and sanitation
• Whistle
• Dust masks
• Cash in small denominations. Banks could be closed and ATMs might not be working in a blackout.
• Photos of family members and pets for re-identification
• Contact lists with phone numbers
• Topographic maps of the area
• Books, games, playing cards and other items to keep you entertained during a blackout
• Surge protectors for when the power suddenly comes back on    

Tips and tricks for handling an outage

In addition to stockpiling the above items, here are a few tips for dealing with a blackout.

Using flashlights rather than candles will help reduce the risk of fire.

Unplug sensitive electronic equipment such as computers, televisions, stereos and printers. When the power comes back on, power spikes could damage delicate electronics.

Only open your refrigerator and freezer doors when necessary. Food will stay good for several hours after a blackout. But not if you keep letting warm air in. Keep a food thermometer handy.

Fill up your bathtub with water immediately after a blackout. Fill pitchers as well and place them in the refrigerator and freezer.

Backup power and emergency food

As promised, I’d like to tell you about a new offer. If you don’t own a Patriot Power Generator 1800, you know you need one. But if you’ve been putting off that purchase for one reason or another, I think I can convince you to delay no longer. 

Because for a very limited time – or until supplies run out, whichever comes first – 4Patriots is offering free gifts worth more than $1,000 with your generator purchase.

And those free gifts include a 3-Month Survival Food Kit. Have we lost our minds? Maybe, but we’ll do whatever it takes to make sure smart and proud Americans such as you have the peace of mind that comes from being prepared for the next inevitable blackout.

Our solar-powered Patriot Power Generator 1800 and 3-Month Survival Food Kit are two of the most popular items we sell. Toss in a convenient payment plan and a money-back guarantee and this becomes a no-brainer. 

Don’t Camp Without These Cookware Essentials

Summer is hot. The bugs can be pretty annoying. And it can get rather crowded at some camping grounds. 

But you know what? There’s never a bad time to go camping!

One of the most important items you can take with you on your next camping trip – regardless of the season – is non-perishable food. Hopefully with a long shelf life. 

But if you fail to include a variety of camping cookware, you may have a difficult time eating that food. Here are some items you’ll want to include on your camping excursions.   

Pots, pans & plates

First and foremost when it comes to cookware for your trip are the three P’s – pots, pans and plates. A store-bought mess kit will do just fine. They are usually designed for one, two or four people. 

You can find them in a big box store’s sporting goods department for a low price. They usually consist of a small frying pan and a plate on the outer shell. Plus a drinking cup or bowl and a boiling pot and lid.

Assuming they inter-stack and lock together into a compact unit, these mess kits are easy to carry, use and clean. And pack up again.

If you consider yourself more of an “upscale” camper, or just want more durability in your mess kit, you can go the stainless steel route. If you don’t want to pay for a mountaineering mess kit, you can assemble one yourself.

Silverware & aluminum foil

Enough silverware for each person in your party is also an essential. Again, the big box store sporting goods area should contain interlocking knife/fork/spoon sets.

To keep the weight of your supplies down, there might be a temptation to pack plastic or extremely lightweight utensils. Don’t. Pack ones that will stand up to some rough circumstances.

When we’re sitting around the dining room table, we rarely say, “Please pass the aluminum foil.” But when you’re camping, this is an item that will come in handy.

You can use aluminum foil to wrap vegetables, meat or fish when they are cooking over a campfire. As well as to carry cooked food when you go exploring.

Coffee & cooking pots

Not everyone will want to include a small coffee pot among their camping supplies. But I can’t imagine camping without one.

To really be efficient, you can keep small, clean clothing items inside it when you’re on the move.

A cooking pot with a lid is another necessity. You’ll be able to heat up larger quantities of food that way, including stew. 

And you can keep other items inside it when it’s in your bag. You might want to add a soft, lightweight, folding bucket for carrying water.

Canteen & water purifiers

Make sure you have at least one military grade canteen in your camping supplies. Some of the better ones also include a matching cup (which can double as a boiling pot). Plus an insulated carrier and a utility belt for transporting them.

The canteen should be able to hold at least one quart of water. Don’t skimp on this purchase. The better canteens will be able to keep beverages hot or cold for longer periods of time.

While you’re at it, make sure you include at least one personal water filter. And a small bottle of water purification tablets.

There’s nothing that spells disaster for a camping experience faster than drinking contaminated water.

Fire starters & dishwashing liquid

A fire starter does not qualify as cookware, but can you imagine trying to go camping without one? Or several? There are a number of different ways to start a fire for cooking food.

Bic lighters have served campers well for years. You’ll also want to carry waterproof matches. If you really want to rough it, you can rub two sticks together or use flint and steel. Or use batteries and steel wool or a magnifying lens over tinder.

In order to keep all your cookware clean, include a non-breakable, non-spill bottle of dishwashing liquid. Keeping cookware clean and germ-free is important.

Another usage for dishwashing liquid is coating the bottom and sides of your cooking pots and pans with a heavy film of dishwashing soap, prior to cooking over an open flame. It will make removing the black soot buildup a much easier task.

Serving utensils and stoves

Knives, forks and spoons are great for transporting food from your plate to your mouth. But when it comes to getting food from the pot or pan to your plate, items such as spatulas, ladles and meat forks are much more preferable.

Single or two-burner camp stoves can make your camping experience easier. And can replace a fire if it’s not convenient to safely build one.

Sometimes called “survival stoves” or “mini-folding pocket stoves,” they can really help warm you up in the cold at night when needed. And can boil water.

They can also serve to dry wet clothing. There are definitely downsides to these portable stoves, however. In addition to their size and weight, they require fuel, which can be bulky and hazardous. And which doesn’t last too long.

A much simpler and safer way to boil water and heat up food is a solar cooker. You won’t be surprised to learn I have just the one for you – the SunKettle from 4Patriots.

Once you’ve determined which cookware items you’ll need for your fall camping trip, pack them first. Your optional items can always fit in and around these “musts.”

Foraging 101 – Your First Day at Living Off the Land School

There are two good times to forage for food.

One is now, in order to collect food items you could use both now and during an emergency situation. The other is when you actually need those items due to a crisis. 

Regardless of when you do it, you’ll need to know how. And that’s what today’s communication is all about.

This is “Foraging 101,” and I’ll be giving you a test later. Not really, but Mother Nature might test you some day, so it’s best to be prepared.

Knowledge is power

The first thing you want to do is learn as much about foraging as possible. Hopefully this information today will help. But you should also consult online articles and books about the subject.

The most important things you’ll learn from these articles and books is which plants are safe to eat and which are poisonous to humans. As our friend and former Navy SEAL Cade Courtley says, “Knowing what you can and cannot eat could save your life.”

Look for field guides with detailed photos and descriptions so you’ll be able to identify the plants you are considering gathering and eating.

Among books you may want to check out are The Forager’s Harvest by Samuel Thayer, Food for Free by Richard Maybe, Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Plants in Wild (and Not So Wild) Places by Steve Brill and Idiot’s Guide to Foraging by Mark Vonderbruggen.

You might also want to keep a journal as you’re foraging, listing which items you’ve chosen to gather (and which ones you haven’t) and why. Try to list both the common names (such as hemlock) as well as the Latin names (such as Conium maculatum and Tsuga canadensis).

Where two or more are gathered…

Finding a foraging partner or two will also make the activity more enjoyable. I’m guessing you have at least one family member, friend or neighbor interested in preparing for the future.

Each of you will have a different skill set and knowledge base, so you can help each other out along the way.

Some of them might be able to guide you toward places where the gathering is good. And where it’s not. Or vice versa. Either way you’ll be gathering food that is healthier for you than what you’ll buy in stores. Not to mention free.

Eventually you’ll be able to get to the point where you can identify plants not only by sight, but perhaps by smell and feel as well. You’ll also learn that some plants are often found near others. For example, yellow dock and pokeweed are frequently located in the same area.

Once you’ve gathered items you want to cook and eat, swap recipes with your partners and maybe even enjoy a meal together. Many wild foods are much richer in essential vitamins and minerals than what you can purchase.

Start slowly and progress

Don’t try to do too much too soon. You want these foraging experiences to leave a good taste in your mouth – figuratively and literally – and that might not happen if you overdo it and come back exhausted and sore.

Start with the easy-to-find foods such as dandelions, berries and sagebrush. They’re easy to recognize.

Get to know the area where you’re foraging with several trips there before staking out new territory. There are many native edible plants in most areas. You’ll learn that certain parts of some plants are fine for eating, but others are not. 

Don’t forage for plants too close to busy roads. They may absorb lead and other toxins. Also avoid areas where pesticides have been sprayed. Try to learn the water source for the plants you forage. Stay away from plants too close to standing water. 

You’ll probably find great places to forage near your home. As the seasons eventually change, you’ll see new foods you didn’t see before. But remember not to uproot plants. In some areas this is illegal. Take only the flowers and leaves.

Freeze-Dried Berry Super Pack

Foraging is fun. Think of it as a combination of hiking and gardening. Get good at it and you’ll be able to live off the land.

Earlier I mentioned berries. They are a great source of tasty nutrition. Now, picking berries can be a lot of fun. But if you also want a one-stop shopping experience for berries, here it is.

It’s the Freeze-Dried Berry Super Pack from 4Pariots. It gives you 96 servings of freeze-dried blueberries and strawberries (48 servings of each) designed to last 25 years.

Packed in triple layer Mylar pouches, the freshness and flavor stays in. Eat them right out of the bag or combine them in your favorite recipes. To cook, just boil, simmer and serve.

Here’s how to get yours…

Summer Travel Tips… Just in Case You’re Out of Practice

Many of us have traveled less in the past 2½ years than we had at any previous time in our adult lives. The pandemic has not exactly been what I’d call travel-friendly.

For some of us, we’re just now getting back into the routine. Others will be traveling again this summer for the first time in quite a while.

When we were traveling at least semi-regularly, most of us established a routine of preparing for these vacations and business trips. We knew exactly what to pack and which bags to put it in. It became second nature to us.

But if we haven’t traveled for a while and are planning some time away this summer, preparing for those trips might take a little longer. And there’s a chance we might forget to pack something we always used to pack without thinking about it.

Don’t leave home without… sleep 

The first item that comes to mind for me that some folks forget to pack is back-up power. Or more precisely, a way to generate free electrical power.

I’ll give you my recommendation for an easy-to-carry and affordable way to do that in a moment.

First though, I’d like to provide you with some travel tips. Just in case you’ve forgotten them since the last time you packed your bag for a trip.

Regardless of how you’re traveling – air, auto, train or boat – get plenty of sleep in advance. Going into a trip in a tired state is a bad way to start. You won’t be thinking as clearly as you should be and your enjoyment level will drop off.

Travel by car

If you’re traveling by car this summer, make sure you put together an emergency supply kit to keep in the trunk. Here are five items I’d suggest including for a three-day trip. 

• Water. A no-brainer, right? Three gallons of clean drinking water should do the trick. If your water is in gallon containers, make sure you have plenty of smaller empty water bottles you can fill up and drink out of. 

• Non-perishable food. You could survive for three days without food if you had to, but why do that? During a crisis, your body will need strength, so pack some items with a high calorie content. Don’t worry about fat content right now.

• First-aid kit. This kit should include bandages, anti-bacterial wipes, burn salve and wound-closure strips. Plus over-the-counter painkillers and lip balm. As well as a three-day supply of any meds you take regularly.

• Clothing. Include any items you would take on a three-day trip. Including socks and underwear, pants and shirts. Plus sweaters, a windbreaker and a heavy coat. As well as gloves and hat. Don’t forget a pair of hiking boots.

• Outdoor kit. If you have to leave your vehicle at some point during a crisis, you’ll want some objects to help you survive. Including fire-starters, paracord and a flashlight. And a hunting knife, tent, poncho, compass and duct tape.

Make sure the bag itself is sturdy because you may have to lug it around. You don’t want anything falling through a hole or getting wet from the elements. It needs to be large enough to hold all but large water containers. But light enough to carry. 

Enhancing your road trip

Your longer auto trip could be enhanced by following the four tips listed below.

• Eat healthy snacks. You’ll probably stop for one or two good meals per day on your road trip. But you’ll also want to take along some in-between-meal snacks for nourishment and alertness. Make sure those snacks contain plenty of vitamins and nutrients. Nuts, fruits and vegetables will provide what you need.

• Stay hydrated. Although it will probably require an extra restroom stop or two each day, it’s important to keep yourself hydrated on the trip. Water and fruit juices are best. Caffeinated beverages should only be consumed if you need them to stay awake. They can be dehydrating.

• Plan interesting stops. There’s nothing that breaks up a long road trip like a few fascinating stops. It’s easier to stay upbeat when you have 100 miles to the next sight-seeing opportunity than 1,000 miles to your destination. Taking photos at each stop will enhance the vacation memory book you create. 

• Chew and smell. By chewing gum, your blood circulation will improve despite your sitting posture. There are plenty of sugar-free gum choices out there. Also, having a peppermint scent handy is a good idea. Just take a whiff if you feel you’re becoming more tired than you want to be. 

Travel by boat

Many people are taking cruises again. If you’re one of them, here are four tips to make your trip more enjoyable.

• Study the ship in advance. You might not be able to board a cruise ship in advance to check it out. But you can take virtual tours. Knowing where everything is on the ship ahead of time will save you considerable time in trying to find things. Especially if it’s a 15-deck ship.

• Know your ports. Knowing what a port offers in advance will go a long way to enjoying your eight hours or whatever it might be before you have to be back on the ship. Pick out three or four things you want to do at that port before you get there. Then make the most of your time. 

• Pack intelligently. Limit yourself to what you believe you’ll need, leaving room in your suitcase for items you’ll want to purchase to bring back home. Pack clothes for the weather at various ports. Don’t forget a poncho.  

• Check out alternative eating venues. Many folks on cruises – especially first-timers – automatically head to the main dining room or buffet each meal time. But many cruises have specialty restaurants you might enjoy. Especially during longer cruises when variety is more important. 

Travel by train

Some folks prefer to travel by train. Here are a few suggestions if you’re going that route.

• Watch for deals. As with other transportation businesses, the train industry likes to entice travelers with deals. Start your search for a deal well before your departure date, then lock it in. Acquiring your tickets in advance should save you money and take that task off your plate.

• Choose your accommodations carefully. Depending on how long your train trip will last, this is an important consideration. The longer the ride, the more comfort you will require. Maybe you can sleep one night in a coach seat, but any more than that and you should probably book a bedroom that includes a private toilet.

• Check a large bag, hold onto a smaller one. When you’re packing, put items that you won’t need during the ride in one large bag and then check it. That way it’s secure and you don’t have to worry about lugging it around each time you venture from car to car. Keep items you’ll need during the trip in a smaller bag. 

• Study your rest stops. Rest stops on train trips are great, as they give you a good chance to stretch your legs and see a few sights before re-boarding. Know where those rest stops are and what they offer in advance. That way you’ll know exactly where you want to head and what you want to see when you get off the train. 

Travel by plane 

As with other modes of transportation, it may have been awhile since you’ve flown. Here are a few reminder tips if you plan to get on a plane.

• Carry your vaccination card. If you’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19, be ready to prove it. Rules are changing all the time, and you never know when you may be asked to show it. If you’ve decided against vaccination, call ahead to the airline and any hotels where you’re planning to stay to see what their policies are.

• Keep a hand sanitizer in your carryon. In an airport and on a plane, you’ll be in close contact with many people. And you’ll be handling a number of things you don’t normally hold. Such as tray tables, beverage cups, etc. Use hand sanitizer whenever you feel the need.

• Don’t wear open-toed shoes. Even if you’re going somewhere hot, wear solid shoes that cover your toes on a plane. You’ll do a lot of walking in an airport and there are too many things inside a plane on which you could stub your toes. You can always change into more comfortable footwear when you arrive at your destination. 

• Avoid big crowds. Once you reach your destination, find things to do that don’t involve large crowds. Some of those things are the most rewarding. And if you do want to engage in a popular activity, consider going earlier or later than most folks do.

PocketSun Solar Panel

As promised, here’s information about that portable way to gain power you can share with your electric devices. Keeping electronics powered up is essential, no matter where you go or how you get there. 

The PocketSun Solar Panel is a micro-sized solar panel that can actually fit in your pocket. Just unfold the panels and start charging your USB devices (two at once if you want to) for free with the power of the sun.

It’s great for travel, camping, fishing or any road trip. Not to mention emergencies including power outages.

The PocketSun never needs batteries… ever. It’s our smallest solar panel yet, but it can deliver 10 watts of power to your small USB devices.

Here’s how to get yours…

Not Your Typical Survival Tips & Tricks

If I had a nickel for every survival tip I’ve ever heard or have communicated to others, I’d be a wealthy man. But I don’t, and I’m not. 

You may have heard some of these tips yourself. Either from us or from other sources.

So rather than provide you with a laundry list of survival tips in the hopes that a few might be new to you, I’m going to do something a little different today.

I’m going to give you survival tips I’m hoping you’re not familiar with. Yes, a few of them might be a little “out there.” And most you’ll probably never have the chance to use. But who knows? One or more of them might come in handy someday.

Animal instincts

If you get bit by an animal, first clean and bandage the wound. But next – and this is crucial – go to your doctor. If you get rabies from the bite, you might feel fine for a while. But by the time you have symptoms, you could get very sick and maybe die. 

Let’s say you’re suddenly confronted with a wild animal starting to come toward you. Running away will be your first instinct, but it could get you killed. The animal will probably catch you quickly. Instead, get behind or up into the nearest tree.

Now, if that animal is a bear and you have a choice of running uphill or downhill to get away, choose downhill. Because their front legs are longer than their back legs, they struggle with running downhill. They’ll catch you quickly if you run uphill.

Spider bites hurt, but their poison could hurt more once it gets fully into your bloodstream. Look to see if there is a red line running away from the bite toward your body. If so, find your way to the nearest emergency room asap.

Situational awareness

Anytime you enter a building you’re unfamiliar with, quickly familiarize yourself with as many of the exits as possible. You never know where you’ll be when an emergency might occur, but this way you’ll know where the nearest exit is.

The same is true with a hotel. Once you’ve checked into your room, find a diagram to determine several escape routes from your floor to the lobby or underground garage.

What would you do if you woke up in a coffin underground? The sides of a coffin are weaker than the top and bottom, so try to kick one of them out. Then take as deep of a breath as you can and start clawing your way up through the dirt. There will be plenty of time to hunt down your spouse later.

Always be aware of your surroundings and be ready to run if an attacker confronts you. But unless they have a weapon and you don’t, putting up a fight might buy you enough time to convince the assailant to flee.

Self-preservation

If you’ve ever been in a burning building, you know how petrifying it can be. Obviously you want to get out as quickly as possible. But if the smoke is getting thick, you’re better off crawling than running. The lower you are, the less smoke there will be.

Would you drive if you knew you were drunk? I certainly hope the answer to that question is a resounding “No!” But being overly tired is pretty much the same thing as being intoxicated. Pull over before you hurt yourself and/or someone else.

Anytime you’re going somewhere (camping, hiking, etc.) where cellphone service might be iffy, give your itinerary to family members and friends. If you get trapped somewhere, you’re going to need that person to alert someone who can find you.

You fall into a rapidly moving river. You should immediately try to swim to shore, right? Wrong. You could drown from hyperventilating. First focus on getting your breathing under control and floating. Then watch for something you can grab onto. 

Miscellaneous

Here are a few more…

• Always carry a lighter. Even if you don’t smoke (good for you), you may need to start a fire.
• Always carry a water purification device. Such as a straw or tablets. You might need them for drinking or washing a wound.
• If you get a bug bite and don’t have an anti-itch ointment, use toothpaste on it.
• If you have to sleep outdoors without a sleeping bag, use leaves for insulation. Sleeping on the ground will lower your body temperature.
•  If you’re caught outdoors in a lightning storm and can’t find shelter, get as low to the ground as possible and remove anything metal from your body, such as a belt buckle or jewelry.
• Never mix bleach and ammonia in the same room when cleaning. The vapors could make you sick or worse.
• If you have to break through a locked door, running into it could injure your shoulder. Instead, kick at its weakest point, which is next to the handle.
• When you call 911, first say where you are, then describe the emergency. If you get cut off, at least they’ll know how to find you.
• While camping, if you need to relieve yourself, do it at least 100 yards away and downwind from your campsite. Animals can smell that stuff.
• If you check into an Airbnb, ask if there are any hidden cameras in the room. They may not answer honestly, so shine a bright light at possible locations such as a smoke detector. A camera lens will give off a bluish reflection.  

Bear-ly surviving

I saved what I think is the most interesting one for last. Can you tell the difference between a black bear and a grizzly bear? Being able to do so could save your life.

Grizzly bears have a pronounced shoulder hump and black bears don’t. Grizzlies have a concave facial profile, smaller ears and larger claws than black bears, which have a “Roman nose” profile.

Why does this matter? If you think a grizzly bear may attack you, leave your backpack on, lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck and play dead. If you absolutely have to fight to survive, try to hit the bear in the face with your backpack or fists. 

If you think a black bear might attack you, don’t play dead. Apparently they like that. Try to escape downhill. Again, if you have to fight, aim for the bear’s face with punches and kicks. Apparently they don’t like that.

I’m willing to bet you have some weird survival tips and tricks up your sleeve. Feel free to share them in the comments section. Stay safe out there.  

11 Survival Uses for Leaves

Many of us have trees on our property. Isn’t it beautiful when the buds start appearing in the spring?

It’s also lovely when green leaves fill these trees during the summer. And gorgeous when those leaves turn different shades of yellow, red and brown in the fall. 

But then in the mid- to late fall, suddenly the sight is not so appealing anymore. All those beautiful leaves are now covering your lawn. 

For many of us, the process of raking and bagging those leaves – and perhaps driving them to the nearest waste disposal area – is not fun. In fact, it can be exhausting. 

Foot blister protection

But those fallen leaves – and others you can obtain – don’t have to be a source of aggravation. Actually, they have some interesting survival uses you might want to check out. We’ll call them “leaf hacks.”

Here’s a great example. In a survival situation, you’ll probably be spending more time on your feet than normal. You’ll do more standing and walking, including on uneven terrain.

And that means inevitable blisters will form on your feet. Unless, that is, you can cushion your feet. One way to do that is by placing leaves from the mullein plant inside your shoes.

In addition to being soft and absorbent, these leaves have an antibacterial quality. And if necessary, they could also be a substitute for napkins and toilet paper.

Padding and bandaging 

If you’re forced to sleep outdoors during a survival event, fallen leaves could be a great source of both insulation and padding. 

Leaves can serve as insulation at the bottom of your tent. And a pile of leaves can act as padding between the ground and your sleeping bag.

Some leaves will give you additional protection. Cuts are inevitable when bugging out. But leaves from the plantain herb have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chew up one of the leaves and spread it on the cut or scrape. Then use another leaf as a bandage to hold it in place.

Cooking and eating 

You’re going to have to eat while trying to survive. Leaves may be the only food source you have at first.

There are a number of wild leaves that are perfectly safe for consumption. They include leaves from dandelions, chickweed, clover, mallow and plantain. They can be eaten raw or cooked. Or crushed and used to brew teas. 

Some leaves can also be used in the food preparation process. Pack food into a wrap of burdock leaves to hold over a fire. The leaves will help contain juices you don’t want to lose while cooking.

Basswood leaves can be used as makeshift plates for your food. They will help keep dirt and other contaminants away from your food. And, you can eat these leaves if you want to.  

Composting

If you’re able to hunker down at home during an emergency, or you’re able to settle down somewhere else, you’ll want to have a garden to grow your own food.

Leaves come in very handy here because they make a great addition to a compost pile. That compost can be used in your garden to help improve the soil.

The nice thing is, you don’t have to “treat” these leaves. Just let them naturally rot for a few months. They have double the amount of nutrients found in manure. The leaves of one large tree are worth as much as $50 worth of plant food and humus.

You can speed up the process by shredding those leaves. Then sprinkle them into your compost pile in layers.

The best leaves for a compost pile come from trees that are high in nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and more. Such as maple, elm, ash, cherry, willow, poplar and linden trees.

Mulching

Another way to use leaves in your garden is as mulch. This is also a fertilizer treatment. But all you have to do is place them on the soil surface.

Over time they will decompose and add their nutrients and other organic matter to the soil. In fact, you may not need another fertilizer for your plants.

Another benefit to using dead leaves as mulch is that it helps maintain soil humidity. This is especially helpful in dry areas of the country.

Because it acts as a temperature buffer, mulch can keep your plants cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. And mulch helps limit weed growth.

Other uses

Other ways leaves can help you in a survival situation include when you use them as tinder. They catch on fire easily.

Some bowl-shaped leaves – the long, sturdy green ones, for example – are ideal for harvesting water.

Large, durable leaves can also serve as shingles for a lean-to you’ve put together. When woven together, they will offer some protection from the weather. 

Certain leaves can be used for cordage. Especially the fibrous ones when tied together. This “rope” could help you set up a shelter.   

Dead leaves are a seldom-used natural resource we should take advantage of in a survival situation. Whether we bug out or hunker down. Money might not grow on trees, but leaves do. Let’s “spend” them wisely.

StarFire Camp Stove

Here’s another great way to use leaves for survival. The StarFire Camp Stove from 4Patriots is a low-smoke stove that cooks food and never needs gas.

All you need are sticks, twigs, leaves or paper to build a roaring fire. Lightweight (1 pound) and portable, it boils water in 8 to 12 minutes.

Enjoy a skillet breakfast or use it to cook soups, stews, vegetables and meats. It can also roast marshmallows or hotdogs, and provide light.

And with a purchase of the StarFire Camp Stove, you also get 11 FREE bonuses. They include some of our top-rated survival items.

Here’s how to get yours…

Can You Cook Food With No Electricity?

Violent storms have knocked out electricity for many Americans this spring. Summer is almost here, but all that means is more extreme weather is headed our way.

Depending on where you live, that could mean hurricanes or tornadoes. Or perhaps heavy thunderstorms.  All three can produce plenty of flooding.

But an even greater common denominator is power outages. Blackouts are on the way, so it’s important to know how to cook food without electricity.

We’re accustomed to modern-day electronic devices and appliances. Many of us don’t know what we’d do without electricity for a week, let alone a month.

In an extended outage, you and your family members will want food requiring heating. Granola bars taste great, but you’ll tire of them. Here are some other ideas:

Solar ovens

This is a great option in warmer, sunnier climates. The solar oven cooking method works by converting sunlight to heat. The trapped heat is used to cook food. 

You can bake, boil, steam, stew and even dehydrate food. This is a safe option without flames. No fossil fuels are required and no air pollution is produced.

This method is portable and low maintenance. Food almost never sticks or burns. Most meals don’t require much stirring during cooking.

If you’re new to solar oven cooking, choose recipes that do well with slow cooking. Such as stews and casseroles.

Portable gas stoves

These are best used as an outdoor cooking method. The two best options with portable gas stoves are butane and propane.

Butane stoves are portable and can generate enough heat to do most cooking. However, butane canisters can be pricey and hold a limited amount of fuel.

Propane is a highly dependable fuel at freezing temperatures and high altitudes. The tanks, however, are thick-walled. They’re too heavy to easily carry.

Smaller stoves in this genre are single-burner stoves. But there are also two-burner stoves. If portability is not an issue, larger camper stoves with legs are effective.

Wood and coal-burning stoves

Wood-burning and coal-burning stoves are convenient for use in the winter when you can cook and heat your home simultaneously. But they’re also great in warmer months.

If it is flat enough, you can cook on top of it. The fire should be going strong before you start cooking. It’s best to use cast-iron cookware. It conducts heat, but does not retain it. 

Frying time is similar to using a conventional gas or electric stove. But cooking time is longer.

If your food is cooking too quickly, turn down the drafts. Transfer food to a cooler part of the stovetop. If it’s cooking too slowly, open the drafts and add wood to the fire.

Grills and open-fire cooking 

If you’re able to hunker down at home – or you have one of these grills at your bug-out location – it will come in handy. They use gas or charcoal. 

This is a great way to grill various meats and fish. As well as large vegetables. Grills have an advantage over open-fire cooking because their lids trap more heat.

Open-fire cooking is a simple outdoor solution during a crisis. Set a barbeque grill plate over an open fire and cook. 

Another option is using a large, flat rock. Place the rock over the fire. Once the rock is hot, put your pan or pot on top. The harder the rock, the less likely it is to crack.

Fireplace and fondue pot  

If you’re hunkering down, a fireplace is not a bad choice. Use logs rather than charcoal, which can produce carbon monoxide.

Add a little vegetable oil, salt and pepper to your food before wrapping it in aluminum foil. Then cook it over the flame. Use tongs and rotate the food often. Use a meat thermometer for meat to make sure the inside is 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 

You can use a fondue pot to cook a small meal. Make sure your fuel is approved for indoor use.

Stainless steel is the way to go here. Both for cooking and for cleaning up afterwards. Make sure the handles are strong and the base is wide.

Canned heat and engine cooking 

The canned heat method is safe, inexpensive and easy. You’ve probably seen this flaming canister used by caterers to keep food warm.

The no-spill, gel-like fuel is simple to use and can burn for several hours. Canned heat can be used with a chafing dish, fondue pot or certain stoves and grills.

Engine cooking uses excess heat from your car or truck engine. It’s a last-resort cooking tactic.

Identify a hotspot such as the exhaust manifold. Wrap your prepared food in several layers of foil. Secure the food with a steel wire and make sure it’s not touching any moving parts. Close the hood and let your food cook.

Bug-out bag musts

Because cooking without power might have to be done outdoors, include the following items in bug-out bags.

• Pots, Pans and Plates. A store-bought mess kit will do just fine. You can find them in a big box store’s sporting goods department. Because they inter-stack and lock together, they’re easy to carry, use, clean and pack. 

• Silverware. The big box stores should sell interlocking knife/fork/spoon sets. Don’t choose plastic. You don’t know how long you’re going to be using these utensils.

• Aluminum Foil. Use aluminum foil to wrap vegetables, meat or fish when they are cooking over a campfire. As well as to carry cooked food when you start moving again.

• Coffee Pot. Lash a small percolator to the outside of your bag to keep it from banging around or breaking. To really be efficient, keep small, clean clothing items inside it when you’re moving.

• Cooking Pot. Include a large cooking pot with a lid in one of your bags. You’ll be able to heat up larger quantities of food that way, including stew.

• Serving Utensils. When it comes to getting food from the pot or pan to your plate, items such as spatulas, ladles and meat forks are much preferable to knives, forks and spoons.

• Canteen. Make sure you have at least one military-grade canteen in your bug-out bag. The better ones also include a matching cup (which can double as a boiling pot), an insulated carrier and a utility belt for transportation.

• Water Purifiers. Carry a personal water filter and a small bottle of water purification tablets. Nothing spells disaster for a bug-out experience faster than drinking contaminated water.

• Dishwashing Liquid. To keep your cooking utensils clean, include a non-breakable, spill-free bottle of dishwashing liquid.

Don’t wait to experiment 

You don’t have to wait for a tragedy to experiment with cooking without electricity. It can be a fun activity to practice.

Why not give it a try, save some money on your energy bills and become well-versed in cooking without power. You’ll be happy you did.

In fact, my top recommendation for cooking during a blackout is by using the 4Patriots Sun Kettle™ Personal Water Heater.

Using the power of the sun, this incredible device will boil water and cook food. No fuel, flames, or electricity needed.

Here’s how to learn more and get yours…

How to Save Money While Stockpiling

Have you ever seen a photo of a family sitting comfortably in their underground bunker with big smiles on their faces? Those types of images would show up in TV ads back in the Sixties from time to time.

The family’s living space might be a tad cramped. But it looks like they have several years’ worth of non-perishable food and other items at their fingertips. Including every form of entertainment imaginable.

I’m guessing these families did not do their prepping on a tight budget. But some of us have to. I’ve heard people say, “I wish I could prepare for an emergency. Unfortunately, I can’t afford it. I live paycheck to paycheck.”

But proper budgeting would enable many of us to have at least a small amount of income available to prepare for an uncertain future. And it’s not like it all has to be done at once. It’s an ongoing process. Slow but steady progress will get the job done.

Look for long shelf lives

Today I want to talk about the importance of stockpiling healthy, nutritious food for an emergency. It doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to do this. There are some simple and inexpensive things we can do to get ready for a crisis.

Following an emergency, it’s likely the electrical grid will not be functioning properly. If at all. So you want to make sure a vast majority of your food items are non-perishable.

In addition, we don’t know how long an emergency will last. So it’s best to have as much food stockpiled as possible. And make sure most of it has a long shelf life. For items that don’t, rotate them out periodically so they don’t go bad. 

If you’re not already in budget mode, try to get there. That means always thinking about how you can spend less and save more. Among the philosophies that must become part of your daily life regarding food are the following:

• Never pay full price for anything. Always look for bargains. You’re better off spending time than money.

• Buy items in bulk at places such as Sam’s Club or Costco. Or when they’re on sale in regular stores.

• Cut and use coupons.

• Find and use in-store-only offers.  

• Grow your own food and preserve it. There are tremendous savings in growing fruits and vegetables. And storing some of them for the colder months of the year.

• Watch for the best deals on websites such as Amazon. They could have exactly what you’re looking for, at a price much less than what you’d spend at a local store.

Tips and tricks 

One of the first places you want to look at to save money is your weekly grocery bill. If you’re not paying attention, it can really add up. The average couple spends up to $500 or more a month on groceries. Let’s look at a few simple ways to save. 

Make a list. Grocers know how to position products so shoppers will purchase them. If you have a list, you know just what you need (and what you don’t).

And of course, if you avoid shopping when you’re hungry, it’s that much easier to resist tempting displays.

Also, choose foods that your family will eat. Variety is important, both physically and psychologically. But you could buy some of the healthiest food in the store, and if your family won’t eat it, you’ve thrown your money away.

Buy store brands. Buying store brands alone can take a huge chunk out of your grocery costs. Sometimes there will be a brand name item or two that you can’t do without. But more often than not you won’t notice the difference. Except when it’s time to check out.

Use digital coupons. Many stores offer digital coupons not available in the weekly newspaper. To acquire these savings, you’ll likely need to set up an account and check off the coupons you wish to use each time you shop.

Doing this ahead of time as you scan the weekly circular can help you write your shopping list around items with the biggest savings. 

Stick to the store perimeter. Center aisles have many expensive, processed foods full of salt, sugar and other additives. The outside ring of the store is where you’ll find more foods such as produce, meat and dairy.

You’ll still need to visit the center aisles for a few things. But focusing on the perimeter will give you more bang for your buck. Try leaving your cart at the end of the aisle, and just dash in for the item you need.

Freeze meals. If you’re buying in bulk, you’ll want to make sure things don’t go to waste. You can freeze many items including bread, milk and chopped vegetables, as well as whole meals. Just remember your power could go out in a crisis.

Use fewer ingredients. Sometimes the simplest food tastes best. But you wouldn’t always know it looking at some of the complicated recipes out there.

Sites such as Allrecipes (AllRecipes.com) are great for finding different options for your favorite recipes. And usually the top reviews will include tips on how to make them even easier.

Buy in bulk. I saved one of the best ones for last. We’re not talking here about warehouse stores, which have membership fees. And usually a minimum price tag of $10 per item. Even in a regular grocery store, you don’t want to buy large amounts of just anything on sale.

It’s about buying more of things you already use often when there’s a significant sale. If it means you shop less often, this can add up to even more savings.

Another item to purchase in bulk is produce. Onions, potatoes, apples and lemons are almost always cheaper when you buy the bag. Just make sure you actually use them so they don’t go to waste. 

Buying beans and grains in bulk can also stretch your dollars while providing hearty, healthy meals. 

3-Month Survival Food Kit

Speaking of buying in bulk, here’s a great idea. Get yourself a pre-made 3-Month Survival Food Kit from 4Patriots.

Our 3-Month Kit comes in two water-resistant, stackable totes. Inside, each food item uses top-of-the-line Mylar pouches – the same material used in NASA’s space suits – to keep air, moisture and light out. So your food stays fresh. 

And this is the perfect time to purchase our 3-Month Kit because it’s back in stock. It’s bigger and better than ever. With tons of variety. This is the “done-for-you” solution to your survival food needs. 

Designed to last 25 years, this Kit features 688 family-favorite servings for breakfast, lunch and dinner. That’s 135,440 total calories.

Plus free gifts including a 72-Hour Survival Food Kit and a Meal Planning and Recipe Guide, free shipping, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Here’s how to get yours…

Gardening 101 = Preparedness 101

If you’ve been gardening for years, you may find today’s communication rather rudimentary. On the other hand, perhaps you’ll be reminded of a few things you’ve forgotten.

But if you’ve been thinking about planting a backyard garden for a while and just haven’t gotten around to it yet, you may find this information very helpful. 

There are many excellent reasons for having a garden. One, the fruits and vegetables you grow will taste better than anything you buy at the grocery store. Two, you’ll be able to use the seeds from this year’s crops for next year’s planting.

Three, in trying times like these, you need to know how to grow your own food. Especially with all the food shortages and high prices going on around the world.  Including here in America.

Having your own garden will provide you with an endless supply of nutritious vegetables and fruits for you and your family – now and in the future.

A garden could be your lifeline

Planting a backyard garden is an activity fully in keeping with the preparedness spirit. It is a step toward self-sufficiency and independence. It’s economical and healthy, and can be a fun family activity.

If you’re considering starting a garden, don’t decide beforehand that the work will be too difficult. Or claim you don’t have a “green thumb.” Growing food is a process that can be learned by anyone. And it can be adapted to fit individuals and available land.

By starting small and learning from experience – instead of letting goals define your success – you can become a fine gardener over the course of only a few growing seasons.

This may be the perfect time to do it. Summer is only two weeks away.

Never lose sight of the fact that this garden may save the lives of you and your family someday. It could be your lifeline when everything around you is falling apart. Let’s break the process down into manageable chunks.

The site

Pick a sunny location. Most vegetables need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The more sunlight, the better the harvest and flavor. Protect your crops from wind damage by placing the garden in the shelter of a nearby building or fence.

Make sure there is a convenient water supply. But rain must neither pool nor run off too quickly to soak into the soil.

A good-size beginner vegetable garden is about 16 by 10 feet. It should yield enough vegetables to keep a family of four from buying produce for a summer. In a good year, there will be extra for canning, freezing and sharing with neighbors. 

Raised garden beds are a great option for starting small, with fresh soil and mulch. Large plant pots are a fine way to start herbs outdoors and bring them into an indoor window garden for winter.

The seeds 

Buy good seeds. A few extra dollars spent in spring will be more than recovered when seeds germinate well and yield a greater harvest. Avoid genetically-modified seeds. 

Growing food is what the earth naturally does. High-tech interference isn’t needed. More on this in a moment. 

The soil

Plant roots need soft soil. Hopefully there’s been enough rain in your area this spring to take care of that. Mix in untreated lawn clippings and leaves for compost. Mix the soil again before planting to blend in the biodegradables. This softens the earth and adds nutrients.

Rent a rototiller for the best results. Although a little muscle and a garden spade and steel rake can also do the job. 

Soil that is ready is easily shoveled and crumbles nicely in your hand. If there is too much clay, it may be necessary to create a new top layer of soil, mulch and compost to the depth of the mature plant’s roots. 

Consider testing the pH level of the soil. Home kits are available at building centers. Or you can send a sample to your local cooperative extension service. They are also a great free resource for identifying crops that will grow well at your soil’s pH level.

The professionals at your local garden center are another great resource for finding plants that will do well in your area. 

The crop selection 

Research the crops you are considering to make sure they are suited to your climate and growing season. The Farmer’s Almanac, gardening books and plant guides will help. They can be found at your local library. 

There are many popular plants that perform well for new gardeners. They include tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, cabbage, green beans, carrots, radishes, beets and cucumbers. Leafy greens are also very popular and delicious.

When planning your garden layout, think about the size of the plants when fully grown.

Place the tallest plants at the back of the garden. They should be descending in size to the front to keep taller plants from blocking the sun on smaller plants.

Don’t overcrowd. Plant so that your crop grows into the available space. If planting in rows, allow enough space to keep plants away from your footpath. 

The maintenance 

Consistent maintenance is just as important to a garden’s success as the planning and planting. Water often, with a good soaking at least once a week. You’re watering the roots, not just wetting leaves.

Water more during hot spells. Particularly early in the day before the sun heats things up. Watering in the evening can promote fungus. Keep weeds in check and use mulch to ensure that soil stays moist. 

Keep an eye out for infestations so they can be handled before they become destructive. When harvest season arrives, pick ripened product frequently to make sure plants produce. Preserve your crop by freezing, canning and dehydrating. 

The patience

Gardening is not about instant gratification. Don’t over-fuss in the garden to rush results. Harvest comes in its own time. There are off years and there are great years. It’s worth investing the time to experience both.

The tools

Here is a list of the tools and accessories you may wish to have handy to help with the process:

Gloves — Gardening might mean thorns, splinters, scratches and blisters from digging. Get a durable pair of gloves that fit well and allow mobility and dexterity. If you brush them off and dry them properly before storing, they’ll last the whole season.

Hand trowel — The “go-to” tool for planting, shaping holes and eliminating weeds. Stainless steel is best if your budget permits.

Spade — These short-handled, square shovels are great for digging holes and moving mounds of dirt. Look for a strong steel head and a thick fiberglass handle. A good one will last forever.

Rakes — A steel rake is great for breaking lumps of soil and sifting out rocks and bits of stick. A fan rake whisks away leaves and plucked weeds to keep your garden tidy and attractive.

Hoe — Great for breaking up soil, turning it and creating rows ready for planting.

Hose and adjustable nozzle — Your hose must be able to reach every part of the garden. An adjustable nozzle or rain wand lets you control the reach and pressure of the water stream to avoid battering plants. 

Loppers – This is the perfect tool for pruning bushes and tree branches up to two inches in diameter. Great for shaping these plants and keeping them from shading the garden. 

Wheelbarrow — Simply the best tool for moving hundreds of pounds of material such as soil, mulch and stone without much strain. Handy for transporting trays of new plants and tools. A good wheelbarrow will last a lifetime.

We’ve barely scratched the surface here. There’s so much more to discuss. But hopefully you are now interested in starting your own garden. And you understand that with some work, you can do it.

Gardening Tool & Storage Set

Above I listed a variety of tools you could use for working in your garden. Here’s a way to get five durable hand tools in one set. Plus gloves, a spray bottle and a kneeler pad.

The Gardening Tool & Storage Set from 4Patriots has just about everything you need for a beautiful garden in one handy place. Regardless if you’re new to gardening or if you’ve had a green thumb for many years.

All of the tools come in a convenient, spacious and secure storage bag. And in addition to two FREE digital reports, you get our 100% risk-free, money-back guarantee. You can’t lose.

Here’s how to get yours…    

There Are Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Produce