Cooking Food Without Electricity? No problem!
If we could bring our ancestors from the 1800s back to life, they’d be amazed at all the conveniences we enjoy. There would be so many things they could learn from us about modern-day life.
But there would also be things they could teach us. Including how to function during a power outage.
They lived without electricity their entire lives, so they would be much better equipped to handle a blackout than we are.
Well, we can’t bring them back to teach us, but there is something that will come back to us quickly during a power outage. And that’s our appetites. That’s why it’s essential that we include how to cook food without electricity in our survival plans.
Time to turn up the heat
That’s today’s topic. And with blackouts increasing in America – due to extreme weather, accidents, attacks on power stations, aging equipment, and more – this subject becomes more important than ever before.
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. Including survival food.
Trust me, you’ll get tired of eating granola bars and crackers pretty quickly during a blackout. Here are some ways to cook food without electricity:
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 at least 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 survival gear 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.
A device to help you 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, such as with your emergency food supply. It will save some money on your energy bills, and allow you to 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 batteries, cords, fuel, flames, or electricity needed.
Its parabolic mirrors trap the rays of the sun, which are then focused on the tempered-glass tube. It will get your water boiling in just minutes.
And that will provide you with water for drinking or warm food to eat. You can prepare coffee, prep a warm washcloth and administer first aid. And it will keep liquid hot for hours. All with the free power of the sun.
To be prepared for a crisis, every Prepper must establish goals and make both long-term and short-term plans. In this column, the SurvivalBlog editors review their week’s prep activities and planned prep activities for the coming week. These range from healthcare and gear purchases to gardening, ranch improvements, bug-out bag fine-tuning, and food storage. This […]
Survival Tools That Fit in Your Pocket
When you walk out your front door in the morning, what do you make sure you’re taking with you?
For me, there are three things I always check.
Did I bring my wallet? Check ✔️
Did I bring my cellphone? Check ✔️
Did I bring my keys? Check ✔️
For each of those items – and maybe you have one or two more you always carry with you – one could quote the American Express card motto: “Don’t leave home without it.”
These three items have something else in common. They can all fit in a pocket, whether it’s in your pants, shirt, or jacket. There’s just something safe and secure about a pocketed item. And you can tell it’s there without even having to look.
3 compact tools from 4Patriots
Now, most survival tools are larger than your wallet, cellphone, and keys. But thankfully there are some that are compact enough to fit in a pocket.
And if you think about it, that’s not a bad place to keep certain tools because you never know when you’ll need one of them.
Sure, you can also keep these items in a backpack or bug-out bag. And it’s not a bad idea to do exactly that with your backup items. But just knowing you can fit some crucial survival tools in your pockets is a good reminder that you should have them with you whenever possible.
Today I want to talk about three of these survival tools. They are a power bank, a tactical flashlight, a water filter, and a mini solar panel. And it just so happens that 4Patriots offers all of them at very affordable prices.
The Patriot Power Cell is a pocket-sized “power plant” that can keep your important electronic devices charged. Including your cellphone, tablet, GPS unit, and many others.
You can charge your power cell with a USB adapter and a wall outlet or with the free power of the sun, thanks to its five-inch solar panel. Once it’s charged, you can use it to power up two devices at the same time.
Despite its compact size, the Patriot Power Cell is powerful. It can recharge your smartphone up to six times before needing to be recharged. And its ruggedized exterior protects against drops. Plus, it features a bright flashlight and an SOS flasher.
Most of our customers buy four at a time. When you do, you get $5 off each unit. Here’s how to get yours…
You probably own at least one flashlight. But if they are not multi-purpose tactical flashlights, you’re depriving yourself of having something far superior. In addition to several light functions, the HaloXT has small solar panels so you can charge it with just the power of the sun.
As well as a glass breaker, a seatbelt cutter, and a compass. The HaloXT also has an anti-slip handle and an adjustable wrist strap. Despite its small size and lightweight, it’s extremely sturdy. That’s because it’s made from aluminum alloy. It can handle abuse.
This tactical flashlight will continue to perform perfectly. It’s weather-resistant, shock-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. It even includes a magnet so you can secure it to your car and use both hands to work.
And you can charge other devices with the HaloXT. Including your cellphone and Patriot Power Cell. Here’s how you can get yours…
PocketSun Solar Panel
Have you ever watched workers installing solar panels on the roof of a house or other building? Those bad boys are effective… but they are usually pretty large and heavy. And require at least a couple of installers. What if you could easily pull a compact solar panel out of your pocket and start charging one of your devices?
Now you can with the PocketSun Solar Panel. Just unfold it and set it down where the free energy of the sun can reach it. Then start charging your USB devices. Such as your phone and tablet.
Weighing less than one pound, this mini solar panel features two USB ports so you can power multiple devices at once. And it never needs batteries.
You can take this extra backup power wherever you go. Including when you travel, camp, and fish. It’s great for emergencies or everyday usage. Get yours here… [link]
Simple to use and perfect for gifting
In addition to fitting in your pocket, the three survival tools I’ve described above have something else in common.
They’re all easy to use and make great gifts. When you buy several, you can keep them in different places in your home and in your vehicle, and give a couple to family members and friends.
They’re also silent and safe, and don’t require the electricity you pay for to keep them charged.
As one of our customers, John C., said, “I cannot believe how many items this company has come up with for our comfort and safety in our survival. Every item has a lot of thought & energy involved in protecting us from just about anything.”
Thanks, John. That’s what we’re here for. Hope you don’t mind, but I printed your comment and carry it with me… in my pocket.
10 Emergency Supplies You Should NOT Waste Your Money On
We talk a lot about emergency supplies you should have on hand for when a crisis situation develops. We even provide extensive lists of these items from time to time.
I think it’s about time we tell you which supplies you should NOT waste your money on.
Because every supply you purchase that won’t do you much good represents money you could have spent on something that could do you plenty of good.
Not to mention the fact that those unnecessary items take up valuable space in your storage area or bug-out bag.
Limit your single-use items
The first things I’d look at when seeking to avoid unnecessary emergency supplies are single-use items. The more different uses you can get out of a single item, the better. (Later I’ll mention 10 great multi-purpose items.)
On the contrary, single-use items such as regular, disposable batteries are a waste of money and space.
Other types of items I keep out of my emergency supplies are those that are not weatherproof. A bug-out situation will require spending more time outdoors than normal. You don’t want too many items that will require staying dry to work.
Additional things to stay away from when it comes to stockpiling supplies for a crisis are those that require more supplies to function. A great example is a gas-powered generator. Gas is not only heavy to transport, but also can be dangerous.
Avoid these money and space wasters
What are some other supply items you shouldn’t waste money on, for one reason or another? Here are a few:
Mass quantities of paper products. Yes, it’s good to have a decent supply of toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, etc. But stockpiling tons of those items in anticipation of stores running out is probably a waste of money. And it’s unlikely you’ll be able to use them for bartering.
Food with high sodium levels. Some food producers load up their food with lots of sodium. They do it for taste and preservation purposes. But in addition to not being good for you, that sodium is going to make you thirsty. Which means you’ll need even more water than you planned on.
Non-solar electronic devices. The electric grid is often the first casualty when it comes to an emergency caused by extreme weather or other problems. You want to have electronics with solar panels so you can recharge them with the free power of the sun instead of watching them die a slow death.
Water in large containers. You’ve seen those five and 10-gallon containers, right? They’re nice to look at but virtually impossible for most people to transport. If you suddenly have to bug out, you’ll have to leave all that life-giving water behind. Stick to containers the average person can carry. Even a gallon of water is heavy.
Too many canned goods. I don’t think it’s a bad idea to have some canned food and beverages in your emergency supplies. The shelf life is not nearly as long as survival food, but canned items can sustain you for a while. However, they usually contain a lot of sodium and again, if you have to bug out, they can be very heavy to transport in larger quantities.
10 multi-use items
I mentioned that multi-use items are important to include in your emergency supplies. Here are a few you might consider adding to your stockpile, as well as some of their surprising uses:
Aluminum foil. Blade sharpener, meat wrapper, trail marker, grill cleaner, keep tinder dry.
Baby powder. Grease stain remover, ant repellent, deodorant, dry skin soother, shoe freshener.
Baking soda. Brush your teeth, eliminate smells, bug repellent, gain traction, pain reliever.
Bandanas. Handkerchief, washcloth, forehead protector, tourniquet, cordage, blindfold, dog collar.
Honey. Digestion aid, energy booster, inflammation reducer, splinter remover, wound treatment.
Lip balm. Blister soother, sunscreen, knife rust preventer, glass cleaner, zipper lubricator.
Plastic grocery bags. Insulation, trail marking, food storage, trash holder, wet item separator.
Rechargeable batteries. The function of the batteries doesn’t change but the list of items you can power is endless.
Steel wool. Fire starter, garden tool cleaner, scissors sharpener, screw tightener, rust remover.
Super Glue. Fix broken knife grip, water bottle sealer, skin repair, backpack strap repair, cordage strengthener.
Emergency Supplies You Should NOT Waste Your Money On
We talk a lot about emergency supplies you should have on hand for when a crisis situation develops. We even provide extensive lists of these items from time to time.
I think it’s about time we tell you which supplies you should NOT waste your money on.
Because every supply you purchase that won’t do you much good represents money you could have spent on something that could do you plenty of good.
Not to mention the fact that those unnecessary items take up valuable space in your storage area or bug-out bag.
Limit your single-use items
The first things I’d look at when seeking to avoid unnecessary emergency supplies are single-use items. The more different uses you can get out of a single item, the better. (Later I’ll mention 10 great multi-purpose items.)
On the contrary, single-use items such as regular, disposable batteries are a waste of money and space.
Other types of items I keep out of my emergency supplies are those that are not weatherproof. A bug-out situation will require spending more time outdoors than normal. You don’t want too many items that will require staying dry to work.
Additional things to stay away from when it comes to stockpiling supplies for a crisis are those that require more supplies to function. A great example is a gas-powered generator. Gas is not only heavy to transport, but also can be dangerous.
Avoid these money and space wasters
What are some other supply items you shouldn’t waste money on, for one reason or another? Here are a few:
Mass quantities of paper products. Yes, it’s good to have a decent supply of toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, etc. But stockpiling tons of those items in anticipation of stores running out is probably a waste of money. And it’s unlikely you’ll be able to use them for bartering.
Food with high sodium levels. Some food producers load up their food with lots of sodium. They do it for taste and preservation purposes. But in addition to not being good for you, that sodium is going to make you thirsty. Which means you’ll need even more water than you planned on.
Non-solar electronic devices. The electric grid is often the first casualty when it comes to an emergency caused by extreme weather or other problems. You want to have electronics with solar panels so you can recharge them with the free power of the sun instead of watching them die a slow death.
Water in large containers. You’ve seen those five and 10-gallon containers, right? They’re nice to look at but virtually impossible for most people to transport. If you suddenly have to bug out, you’ll have to leave all that life-giving water behind. Stick to containers the average person can carry. Even a gallon of water is heavy.
Too many canned goods. I don’t think it’s a bad idea to have some canned food and beverages in your emergency supplies. The shelf life is not nearly as long as survival food, but canned items can sustain you for a while. However, they usually contain a lot of sodium and again, if you have to bug out, they can be very heavy to transport in larger quantities.
10 multi-use items
I mentioned that multi-use items are important to include in your emergency supplies. Here are a few you might consider adding to your stockpile, as well as some of their surprising uses:
Aluminum foil. Blade sharpener, meat wrapper, trail marker, grill cleaner, keep tinder dry.
Baby powder. Grease stain remover, ant repellent, deodorant, dry skin soother, shoe freshener.
Baking soda. Brush your teeth, eliminate smells, bug repellent, gain traction, pain reliever.
Bandanas. Handkerchief, washcloth, forehead protector, tourniquet, cordage, blindfold, dog collar.
Honey. Digestion aid, energy booster, inflammation reducer, splinter remover, wound treatment.
Lip balm. Blister soother, sunscreen, knife rust preventer, glass cleaner, zipper lubricator.
Plastic grocery bags. Insulation, trail marking, food storage, trash holder, wet item separator.
Rechargeable batteries. The function of the batteries doesn’t change but the list of items you can power is endless.
Steel wool. Fire starter, garden tool cleaner, scissors sharpener, screw tightener, rust remover.
Super Glue. Fix broken knife grip, water bottle sealer, skin repair, backpack strap repair, cordage strengthener.
Severe Spring Weather: Car Safety Checklist
Of all the places you could be stuck during an extreme weather event, your vehicle is probably not the worst.
After all, you have shelter from the storm. As well as heat or air conditioning, as long as there’s enough gas to keep your vehicle running.
But it’s rather inconvenient for your biological needs. Including your need for food and water.
Many extreme weather events cause accidents. Some of which can block roads for hours at a time. Even if you’re “safe” in your stranded condition, you’re going to get hungry. And that half-eaten candy bar sitting on the back seat isn’t going to cut it.
Assume you’ll get stranded
Spring might be the most welcomed season of the year. Especially for those who just endured a rough winter.
But spring also brings severe weather in many parts of the country. Late-season snowstorms, tornadoes and heavy rainstorms producing flooding can wreak havoc on your travel plans.
Today I’d like to provide some advice about how to prep your vehicle to effectively deal with extreme spring weather.
As well as some suggestions about items to keep inside your vehicle. In case you get stranded by that weather.
Maintenance makes car sense
First let’s tackle how to prep your vehicle so that it’s ready for whatever types of extreme spring weather we get.
- Keep your vehicle’s gas tank as full as possible. Now, you don’t want to stop every few blocks to top off your tank. But never let it get below half full.
- Get regular oil changes. And keep a couple of unopened quarts of oil in your trunk.
- Check your fluid levels frequently. Windshield wiper fluid could actually save a life in a snow or ice storm. And keep an extra bottle of wiper fluid in your trunk. As well as antifreeze.
- Check your battery regularly. A dead battery is the most frequent cause of drivers getting stranded.
- Check your spark plugs and carry spares, along with fuses.
- Check your brakes periodically. No need to explain why.
- Check your tires’ air pressure and treads regularly.
Vehicle emergency kit items
Now let’s turn our attention to the items you should have in your vehicle’s emergency kit.
- Vehicle insurance card with roadside assistance phone number
- Power bank to charge your cellphone and other electronic devices
- Spare tire and jack. And know how to use them.
- Small but sturdy foldable shovel. It could help you dig out of snow or mud.
- Roadside flares or glow sticks
- Foam tire sealant for minor tire punctures
- Tactical flashlight
- Jumper cables
- First-aid kit
- Tool kit. Including screwdrivers, pliers, vise grips, wrenches, tire pressure gauge and a multi-tool.
- Car fire extinguisher
- Wool blankets and a sleeping bag
- Boots, wool socks, gloves and hats
- Towels (cloth and paper)
- Duct tape
- Rain gear, umbrella, snow brush and scraper
- Sanitary items. Including hand sanitizer, trash bags and wipes.
- Hand-crank radio
- Whistle
- Road maps
- Sand or non-clumping cat litter for tire traction
- Tow rope
- Fire starters
- Cash
- Notebook and pens
- Emergency contact information
- Reflective vest
- Pepper spray. In case of an unwanted approach from a human or animal.
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable food
Now is the time to prepare your car for an emergency. Because you never know when you’ll get stuck… But you can have peace of mind by being ready just in case.
Collecting Water in a Crisis? Let Me Count the Ways
We’ve all been taught the importance of storing water for an emergency. It’s kind of a no-brainer, if you think about it.
We know our main water source could be cut off following a disaster. Such as the one occurring recently in East Palestine, Ohio. That’s where 38 train cars derailed, including 11 carrying hazardous materials, threatening the quality of drinking water.
And we know we need water to survive. So, the more drinking water we have stored in a safe place, the better off we’ll be.
But no matter how much water we store, we could run out eventually. That’s why it’s crucial to know both where you can find water and how to collect it. There’s one more key component to this process – filtering that water – and I’ll get to that at the end.
In the meantime, let’s look at ways to find and collect the water we will need to survive if an emergency halts our normal access to water.
Collecting rainwater
First, it’s important to know in advance exactly where water sources near you are located. This could be a stream, river, pond, creek or lake.
But if rain is your only option for collecting water, there are ways to do that. Including developing a homemade system or purchasing a ready-made one.
The most simple DIY way is to cut one of your drain pipes and divert it to a large barrel. Make sure to have several barrels available so you don’t lose out during a heavy or extended rainfall.
An elaborate system features underground rainwater collection tanks. This is costly but does have the advantage of allowing you to collect water covertly.
Underground water still
Another option for collecting water is creating an underground still. First, choose a location that gets plenty of sun during daylight hours. And that is in a low-lying area.
Next, dig about 15 inches down. The sides of the hole should not be straight up and down. Rather, aim for a bowl shape.
Place your collection container in the center and cover the entire hole with plastic sheeting. Including the container.
Place a rock over the container and use other rocks to hold down the sides of the sheeting. Condensation will gather in your container. It might be difficult to collect more than one quart per day, but that’s better than nothing.
Swimming pool & hot water heater
Yes, I know what kids do in pools. But if you have a pool used by your children or grandchildren, you may need to access that water for survival.
Drain water from the pool into your barrels and other containers. Due to chemicals and other impurities that might be in the water, filtering is a must.
Another place from which to collect water is inside your home. You may have as many as 30 to 60 gallons in your hot water heater.
Most hot water heaters have a valve from which you can access the water. But you will need a hose or pump to make the collection easier.
Wells and cacti
If you don’t already have a well on your property, you might consider installing one. This water could become contaminated by whatever problem is affecting the general water supply. But perhaps not as quickly.
Some of you live in Arizona or other states containing cacti. Some types can be a source for water in an emergency. But some are poisonous.
There is an art to gaining water from a cactus. I’d recommend doing an Internet search if this is an option for you.
Whatever you do, don’t just hack away at it with a machete. You may wind up wasting what precious little water it contains.
Dew, transpiration bags & toilets
Early in the morning, tie one clean rag around each of your feet and walk through an area of grass where dew has not yet evaporated. Then squeeze the water from those rags into a bowl.
Another option is a transpiration bag. Tie a clear plastic bag around a branch with plenty of green leaves. Water should collect in it throughout the day.
I was hesitant to mention this ninth and final one because of how gross it is. But desperate times call for desperate measures.
Personally, I wouldn’t touch water in a toilet bowl unless I absolutely had to. But the six or so gallons in a toilet tank are somewhat cleaner.
5 more you can’t do
These next five methods of collecting water are impossible for the average person. I’m only mentioning them because I find them interesting.
One is catching fog. A large vertical mesh made of screen materials can intercept the droplet stream and collect it in a storage system.
A second is cloud seeding. This technology involves dispersing small particles into clouds. This has the potential of increasing the volume of water those clouds drop.
A third is minimizing evaporation. This can be accomplished through a catchment area in a small reservoir of a cultivated area.
A fourth is desalinating seawater. If this were easy and inexpensive to do, no one in the world would ever be thirsty. But they are making strides in this area.
A fifth is iceberg harvesting. Theoretically, it is possible to move an iceberg, although there are countless environmental concerns about it.
Act Now to Keep Your Yard & Garden Safe from Bugs
When we spend time in our backyards – and with spring approaching, it won’t be long until most of us will be able to comfortably start doing that again – we begin thinking about all the fun we’re going to have.
But there is a group that doesn’t want us to enjoy ourselves. In fact, they want to feast on you, your pets, and your garden.
I’m talking about bugs. Many bugs. Many different bugs. Right now, a lot of them are emerging from hibernation. A bunch of others are heading north toward us as our weather warms. And billions of them are just a twinkle in their parents’ eyes right now.
To us, they are a pain somewhere to the south of our eyes. Their goal is to gain nutrition from our blood, the blood of our pets, and the plants in our garden. And I can’t ever remember any of them ever offering to pay for any of it.
Don’t provide a home where bugs can roam
There are many ways to try to keep ticks and mosquitos out of your yard. For one, take away their habitats.
Ticks love leaf litter, tall grass, and brush – so rake, mow and clear. Divide your lawn from any wooded area with a three-foot wide barrier of wood chips.
Mosquitos love standing water, where they can hang out and breed. So, drain those areas regularly. Including kids’ pools, flowerpots, buckets, wheelbarrows, and bird baths.
There’s nothing like a nice, shady area on your lawn where you can sit and relax. The problem is, mosquitos love shade too. Limit shady areas by cutting back trees and pruning hedges.
Bugs can carry dangerous diseases
Something we sometimes forget about when it comes to mosquitoes and ticks is that not only are they annoying and cause painful itching, they can also be dangerous to our health and that of our pets.
Some mosquitos carry diseases they can transmit to humans and animals. Including West Nile virus, heartworm, malaria, dengue fever and chikungunya. Ticks carry Lyme disease plus bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
And there’s no way to know whether a bug is dangerous. They don’t carry signs. Any bite could make you, your children or grandchildren, or your pets sick or worse.
Nobody wants something like that to happen, especially when we’ll look back and realize it was all so preventable.
Avoid mosquito bites
Before I get to a great way to avoid mosquito bites, let me first give you some good ways to avoid them, as well as some good ways to treat them when they happen.
Use a mosquito repellent. There are over-the-counter sprays and rub-ons containing DEET. If you want to avoid that chemical, make your own concoction.
Mosquitos aim for thin-skinned areas because they can get to your blood easier. Apply the repellent to exposed areas of skin. Focus on your feet, ankles, lower legs, and wrists.
Bugs are also attracted to dark colors. Wear light-colored clothing when you’re outdoors. Long sleeves and pants can be helpful for avoiding bites. A thicker fabric with a looser fit is preferable to tight-fitting, thin fabrics.
Avoid the outdoors around dawn and dusk. That way your blood won’t be available to them during their favorite parts of the day. When indoors, keep windows closed unless you’re sure there are no holes in your screens.
Treating mosquito bites
Scratching mosquito bites usually makes them itch more and longer. That’s not a good “treatment.”
If you break the skin while scratching, you can expose yourself to an additional infection. Wash the area with soap and water, then cover it with a bandage.
Ice will slow blood flow to the area, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling. Apply aloe vera directly to the bite to relieve itching and discomfort. Or press a steeped chamomile tea bag to your bite.
Some folks apply other items to their bites. Including honey, vinegar, and even an oatmeal paste. Others like to use hydrocortisone cream or take an antihistamine.
Hey, bugs… bug off!
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there were a clean, quiet, odor-free way to keep your yard clear of the annoying – and potentially dangerous – bugs who want to spoil your outdoor fun?
Fortunately, there is. This is the great way to avoid mosquito bites I mentioned a moment ago. The BugOUT Solar Lantern from 4Patriots features three different light settings and serves as a decorative light.
You can take this compact, portable lantern anywhere you go. It has a convenient handle so you can hang it on a tree branch at your campsite or on a clothesline in your backyard.
It’s lightweight (just one pound) but does the job. We call it the king of bug-zappers. With its solar panel, the BugOUT Solar Lantern charges in the sun.
And it’s rainproof and water-resistant. It both attracts and kills bugs. Without using pesticides or chemicals. And it cleans itself every 72 hours.
As great as this lantern is, it might not be enough to cover the entire area of your backyard or campsite. You may want to pick up several of them.
Protect yourself, your backyard guests, your pets, and your garden with the BugOUT Solar Lantern. It will keep your outdoor space safe by keeping bugs away.
4 Survival Communication Devices to Help You Stay Connected in a Crisis
In our digital world, it’s easy to stay up to date with text messages, phone calls, emails, and social media. But you can’t rely on all those communication methods in an emergency. Check out these four survival devices that can help you stay connected and find the right solution for your family.
You Can’t Always Rely on the Grid
A natural disaster or other crisis can have wide-reaching effects, including downed cell towers and power outages. Without Wi-Fi or cell service, the communication devices we’ve come to depend on become obsolete. Having an alternative communication system during a disaster is almost as important as stocking up on enough food.
There are two types of communication you need to keep in mind when looking for devices:
- One-Way Communication allows you to receive important information and updates from local authorities. You will be unable to communicate back, though.
- Two-Way Communication is for both sending and receiving information. This will allow you to talk with friends, family, and other community members. You can share information with each other and ask for help.
1. Walkie-Talkies
Walkie-talkies are one of the most basic bug-out bag communication devices. They are compact, perfect for stashing into a go-bag, and easy to use. While walkie-talkies have a limited range compared to other two-way communication devices, a lot of people tend to own them. You may be able to contact others outside your immediate circle if needed.
Quality matters when it comes to walkie-talkies. You don’t want to go with a cheap set that resembles a children’s toy. Talk-N-Go Rechargeable Walkie-Talkies are great to have in your emergency kit or even while camping. They have a range of up to three miles and feature a “secure mode” for when you don’t want others to come across your conversation. Plus, they’re easy and quick to recharge with a solar power bank, so you don’t have to worry about your walkie-talkie dying on you.
2. CB Radio
You’ve probably seen truckers in real life or on television use citizens band (CB) radios to communicate with each other. CB radios offer more range than walkie-talkies, but you’ll still be limited in distance. If your friends and family live within a close range, you could each set up a radio in your home so you have a quick and reliable way to communicate. It’s unlikely your neighbors will also have CB radios, so they can offer more privacy. However, you will have difficulty reaching out for help with one.
While walkie-talkies run on batteries, CB radios require a power source. If you choose to go the CB radio route, make sure you’re equipped with a solar generator for electricity.
3. HAM Radio
Amateur (HAM) radios will give you a larger range than CB radios and walkie-talkies. A HAM radio will be the better option if you’re hoping to stay in contact with those living farther from you or if you want to increase your chances of reaching people outside your social circle.
Unfortunately, HAM radios require a license to transmit. In a crisis, you might not be too worried about following regulations, but HAM radios have a bit of a learning curve. You’re going to want plenty of practice before the real deal happens. Practicing with your HAM radio will also give you a chance to get to know other HAM radio owners who may be able to help when disaster strikes.
Like with CB radios, you’ll need an alternative electricity source like solar power if the grid goes down. Luckily, many HAM owners are dedicated and will also have invested in alternative power, so you’ll be in good company if a crisis happens.
4. Solar Radio
Walkie-talkies, CB radios, and HAM radios are all great for interacting with other people, but they don’t lend themselves much toward receiving essential news and updates. When it comes to one-way communication devices, you can’t go wrong with a simple solar-powered radio.
The Liberty Band® Emergency Solar Radio is a best seller, and for a good reason. This radio relies on the sun for power, so you don’t have to worry about switching out batteries or finding a power source. You can even use it to charge other devices via USB, and it features a convenient flashlight. The Liberty Band® includes five different modes so you can listen to weather forecasts, stay up to date on national news, and even jam out to your favorite FM station. Its lightweight, compact design makes it perfect for taking on camping trips or stashing in your bug-out bag.
Stay Prepared for Any Crisis With 4Patriots
4Patriots is here to help you and your family prepare for unexpected disasters. From emergency walkie-talkies to survival food kits, you’ll find exactly what you need to complete your emergency kit. Don’t find yourself unprepared. Order the emergency supplies you need today.
How to Make Your Fruits & Veggies Last Longer
Just about everybody loves fruits and vegetables. And knowing how good they are for us adds another positive dimension to eating them.
But there is a downside. If you don’t eat fresh fruits and vegetables during the first few days after you buy them, they usually go bad.
We promise ourselves we won’t let it happen again, but a week later we look in the fruit bowl and see dark brown bananas or soft oranges. Or we open the veggie drawer in the fridge and smell something we know doesn’t belong there.
Today I want to provide you with two valuable pieces of information. The first is tips on how to make your fresh fruits and vegetables last longer. The second is an easy way to always have delicious and long-lasting fruit on hand and ready to eat.
Let lettuce leaves go AWOL
If you buy bagged salad at the grocery store, you know how great it looks when you place it in your refrigerator. But after it’s opened and you use some of it, watch out. The lettuce will start wilting quickly.
A good way to avoid this is by removing the lettuce leaves from the rest of the salad items, washing them off, and placing them in an airtight, zippered bag.
If instead you purchase a head of lettuce, remove the individual leaves and soak them in a bowl of cold water for a couple of hours.
Then rinse them off and put them in an airtight, zippered bag, then place it into the fridge. Your lettuce leaves will stay crisp and fresh much longer this way.
Onions, asparagus & herbs
Onions are another item that can go bad, sometimes even before you use them. To avoid this, chop them up when you get home from the store, put them in a resealable bag, and place them in the freezer.
Remove the bag and grab what you need next time you’re preparing a salad, then return the bag to the freezer.
One of the reasons other vegetables such as asparagus start wilting too soon is because they lack hydration. To offset this, store them upright in a glass with about an inch of water in it. Or, wrap a damp paper towel around the base of the asparagus.
You can do the same thing with herbs including parsley, basil, coriander, dill, mint, and others. If you want to be frugal, you can store leftover herbs in an ice tray in your freezer and pour water over them. Other herbs such as rosemary and thyme can go in an airtight bag in the fridge.
Fruitful strategies
If you’d like items such as tomatoes, apples, pears, melons, avocados, and mangoes to ripen because you want to use them in the next day or so, leave them in a bowl on a countertop where you’ll see them and not forget about them.
But items such as grapes, berries, and citrus should be refrigerated so they don’t deteriorate too quickly.
If you cut fruit and only use some of it for a meal, protect the remainder from softening too quickly with an airtight seal.
Then place that bag or container in the fridge. This will help your fruit last much longer.
Bacteria-fighting vinegar
One thing to keep in mind when ensuring that fruits and vegetables last longer is not storing them together in the same bag or container.
Some fruit produces ethylene gas, which can make vegetables (and other fruit, for that matter) ripen too quickly.
When you get berries and other fruits back to your home from the store – or from picking them outdoors – wash them in a 3-to-1 or 4-to-1 ratio of water to vinegar. The vinegar will help kill any bacteria found on fruits.
Let them dry on parchment paper, then store them in a container with the paper. But leave the lid slightly open to give moisture a chance to escape.
A few more tricks
- For fruit that has not ripened yet – such as apples and peaches – put them in a paper bag and place it on a windowsill.
- You don’t need to wait until you’re ready to eat your fruits and vegetables to wash them off. Do it as soon as you return from the store or your garden and they’ll be ready to eat as soon as you want them.
- Most fruits will last longer in a fridge than in a bowl on a table or countertop. Including apples, berries, grapes, apricots, pears, peaches, nectarines, and cherries.
- But some fruits will do better at room temperature. Such as bananas, oranges, grapefruit, cantaloupe, watermelon, lemons, and limes.
- If you wait a little too long to eat fruit but you’re still not ready to eat it, chop it up, place it in airtight bags, and toss it in the freezer. You’ll want to use it later for smoothies.
Utilizing these tips and tricks to making fruits and vegetables last longer will reduce food waste and help you save money by preserving precious resources.
Freeze-Dried Berry Super Pack
A moment ago I mentioned berries. They are among the many fruits that are both tasty and nutritious. Picking your own berries while hiking is a fun activity – as long as you know which ones are safe and which ones aren’t.
But if you’d prefer a one-stop shopping experience for berries, I’ve got one for you. It’s the Freeze-Dried Berry Super Pack from 4Patriots.
It gives you 96 servings of freeze-dried blueberries and strawberries (48 servings of each) designed to last 25 years under proper storage conditions.
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.
