Could You Purify Water in a Survival Situation?

No matter what type of crisis results in a survival situation, it’s likely the quality of available water will be compromised.

Most tap water already has contaminants in it. Whether it’s extreme weather, blackouts or an attack against infrastructure, clean water might be impossible to locate. You need to know how to purify water.

Nothing will make dealing with a disaster more challenging than getting sick from drinking impure water.

But if you can eliminate a vast majority of contaminants from the water you’ll use for drinking, bathing and cleaning, you’ll put yourself in a much better position to survive the crisis.

First you have to find it

Today I want to offer a variety of ways to make contaminated water drinkable. For the purpose of this communication, I’m going to assume that you will either have to bug out or that your home tap water will be contaminated.

The first thing you may have to do is find the water you will filter and purify. Here are a few tips:

Avoid water with a strange hue or film on it. And avoid water that is not clear.

Try to find moving water as opposed to still water.

Avoid water where there is active growth in it. Such as algae or scum.

Avoid water near roadways or pavement. It likely has oil and pollutants in it.

Stay upstream of industrial facilities, mines and construction.

Avoid water from farmland. It might have large amounts of fertilizer and pesticides in it.

Boil away pathogens

The most common way to rid water of bacteria is by boiling it. Humans have been doing this since the time of the ancient Greeks. And probably earlier.

I’m guessing your community has had a boil order at one time or another. They usually follow a contamination or possible contamination of the water supply. This can occur after an extreme weather event or a pipe or water main break.

Boiling water for about 10 minutes won’t eliminate heavy metals and some other contaminants. But it usually does a good job of destroying pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria.

Heat can destroy bacteria cells in water. It does this by damaging the structure of the cell’s proteins, altering the cell’s metabolic processes and striking its nucleus.

DIY filtering tactics

If you want to attempt a primitive DIY way to filter water, try the birch cone method. Cut a one-foot by one-foot square of birch, aspen or other paper-like bark from a tree. Roll it into a cone.

Place some small stones in the bottom to keep your material from falling out. Tie a couple of pieces of string around the outside to keep it in the cone shape. Now alternate placing layers of charcoal, grass and sand in it.

The sand and grass will filter the suspended solids in the water, and charcoal can filter bacteria. Run your water through the filter at least three times and keep changing the materials inside it for best results.

You can also use the earth to filter your water. Dig a hole next to a stream and let water filter through the sand and silt into your hole. This water will be reasonably clean, but may not be free of all bacteria.

Use the sun to distill it

Our old friend, the sun, has a great solution for us. A solar still works by causing water to first evaporate, then condense on a surface where you can collect it. Because 99 percent of solids and bacteria won’t evaporate with the water, the condensed water will be pure.

As far as purifying rainwater is concerned, follow these steps after conducting a “how-to” Internet search.

Install a downspout filter on your home’s roof drainage system. This will divert grime, insects and bird waste from your water supply.

Install a rain barrel below the downspout filter. Make sure you have a spigot and smaller water vessels so you can transfer your water inside.

Set up a simple gravity filtration system to clean the water.

Additional purification methods

Here are some other ways to purify water:

Solar cooker. This is another way to boil your water in order to remove pathogens and other harmful microorganisms that can make you sick. The solar ultraviolet light rays are converted into infrared light rays inside the cooker for purification. Water is contained in the “thermos” during the process. So you lose very little to evaporation.

Portable water filter. Often called straws, these lightweight, portable devices are highly effective at filtering out a vast majority of the contaminants present in water.

Bleach. After filtering the water to remove sediments and debris, a gallon of water can be disinfected with only eight to 16 drops of chlorine bleach. Use less for clear water, more for murky water. Shake the container well, then let it sit for about 30 minutes before drinking. If you keep bleach in your emergency supplies, rotate it every three to six months. Its potency will diminish over time.

Purification tablets. Filter the water first, then add iodine tablets per the instructions. One small tablet can purify approximately one quart of water. As with bleach, shake the container and let it sit for 30 minutes. Keep in mind that water treated with iodine is not safe for everyone. Particularly the elderly and pregnant women.

Patriot Pure Aqua-Bright

Two of the biggest needs you’ll have during a survival situation are clean drinking water and light. Wouldn’t it be nice to combine the solutions to those two issues in one lightweight, collapsible item?

Well, now you can with the Patriot Pure Aqua-Bright Water Bottle. It delivers safe and delicious drinking water by using powerful UV-C light to disinfect your water in only five minutes.

UV-C light can kill up to 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria. And it works quickly. Often in as little as 30 seconds.

This collapsible water bottle doubles as a lantern so you can light it up to brighten a campsite or use during a blackout at home. Take it with you to the gym or anywhere you go, including road trips. And when it’s empty, you can fold it up and carry it in your pocket.

And now is a great time to get some of these bottles for you and your family. That’s because we’ve got a Buy 4, Get 1 free offer going. In addition to free shipping, this deal includes a $25 off certificate for your next purchase and a free digital report.

Here’s how to get yours…

Summer Bugs Aim to Make You Miserable

Some of us aren’t too crazy about cold weather. Especially if we live in an area of the country where it seems like winter goes on far too long. But at least we don’t have to worry about backyard bugs when it’s cold out.

Well, winter is now a distant memory. But the reminder of a bug-filled summer is fresh in our minds as we see mosquitos and other annoying and potentially dangerous flying insects invade our backyards.

Many of these bugs have been in some form of hibernation since late last fall. Others may have been hanging out inside your attic or walls. Still others have migrated north as the weather warms.

Today I want to talk about the types of bugs we’re likely to see in the coming months. As well as the harm they can do and the importance of keeping them off our bodies.

No. 1 pest? The mosquito

First and foremost is the mosquito. Other than providing food for birds, it seems like they are a punishment for mankind. Not that we don’t deserve it.

Their bites cause our skin to swell up and result in considerable itching. And that’s if we’re lucky.

If we’re unlucky, they could spread serious diseases including West Nile virus, heartworm, malaria, dengue fever and chikungunya.

In a moment I’ll give you some advice for avoiding mosquito bites. These precautions are easy to follow and effective.

Bees, wasps & hornets

Other flying bugs include bees, wasps and hornets. As a general rule, they won’t bother you if you don’t bother them.

However, it’s easy to inadvertently bother them. Especially if you accidentally get near one of their nests.

Bee, wasp and hornet stings can be extremely painful. And if you’re allergic to them, they can be very dangerous. Some victims of these stings have died from their throats swelling up.

If you suddenly see a bee or wasp in your vicinity, try to hold still. Usually they will quickly discover you are not a flower and be on their way.

Ants range from meek to dangerous

Ants don’t fly, but this bug can put a damper on a picnic. The average ant doesn’t pose much of a physical threat, but fire ants certainly do.

If you’ve ever disturbed a large mound of fire ants, you know what I mean. They will latch on and sting, injecting a toxic alkaloid venom into their victims.

They’ve even been known to congregate in the hundreds or thousands to attack and sometimes kill small animals.

The crazy ant – which gets its nickname from its frantic and erratic behavior – can actually chew through electrical wiring.

More blasted bugs

Among other bugs you should watch out for – depending on which part of the country you live in – are the following:

Spiders. Black widows and brown recluses are particularly dangerous.
Bed bugs. Causing severe itchiness, they’re very challenging to get rid of.
Termites. Far more than a nuisance, they cause billions of dollars of property damage every year.
Ticks. They can spread Lyme disease so we need to check ourselves regularly after being on our lawns or in a wooded area.
Cockroaches. They prefer the indoors and are attracted to food that is left out.

How to avoid mosquito bites

Getting back to mosquito bites, you’re better off avoiding them than treating them. 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 it to exposed areas of skin. Focus on your feet, ankles, lower legs and wrists.

They’re 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. Make sure screens don’t have holes in them.

How to treat 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.

Nothing to see here, little bug… ZAP!

As we’ve seen, mosquitos and other bugs can be very annoying when we’re trying to enjoy the outdoors. And if that weren’t enough, they can also spread disease. Both to us and to our pets.

So, let’s keep them at bay this spring, summer and fall. My suggestion for accomplishing that task is the BugOUT Solar Lantern from 4Patriots. 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.

It features three different light settings and serves as a decorative light. You can take this compact and 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.

Protect yourself, your backyard guests and your pets with the BugOUT Solar Lantern. Here’s how to get yours…

Everything You Wanted to Know About Mosquito Bites

Will there be a special place in hell for mosquitos? In moments of weakness, part of me hopes so.

There are few insects more annoying and few as potentially dangerous. At least in most parts of America.

If mosquitoes were merely irritating, we could probably put up with them. But their bites cause welts and itching for days. And worse yet, some transmit diseases that can make us sick. Some diseases can even be fatal.

There are ways to treat mosquito bites, and I’ll mention a few near the end. But prevention is the best medicine when it comes to these hated pests.

What are they?

As all of us know, mosquitoes are small, flying insects. But not all of us know they have six legs and long mouthparts that feed on blood and nectar.

Did you know that only female mosquitoes feed off the blood of humans and animals? That’s because the females need the protein in their blood to develop their eggs. The males only need flower nectar.

Their bites result in usually small, raised bumps on the skin. If you’re allergic to mosquitoes, the bumps might get considerably larger. And you might experience hives, a swollen throat, faintness and wheezing.

The bump and itching will usually go away between three and seven days later. But it’s possible to experience more serious effects for a longer period of time.

Where are they?

The three types of mosquitoes – Aedes, Culex and Anopheles – can be found in most areas of the world.

They often congregate in areas near water. That’s because they lay their eggs in shallow water.

Such as what you find in ponds, lakes and marches. But also in kids’ pools, birdbaths and even the inside of tires.

They can even be found in the lower areas of a lawn following rain. Whatever you can do to keep standing water off your property will probably cut down on their population.

How do they do it?

The mosquito’s long mouthpart I mentioned earlier looks like a tiny needle. A mosquito will land on your body and pierce your skin with that mouthpart.

She will then suck your blood, which isn’t the worst part. More significant is that she will secrete saliva into your bloodstream.

OK, but why does that produce itching? Because your body recognizes mosquito saliva as an allergen. Your immune system then goes to work. It sends a chemical called histamine to the area where the bite occurred to fight that allergen.

The histamine is what causes the itching and swelling. It’s pretty much a no-win situation.

Why me and not them?

Have you ever been to an outdoor event where mosquitoes were bothering some people a lot more than others?

It’s not necessarily because some folks used a mosquito repellent and others didn’t. It might be because mosquitoes like certain blood types more than others.

We all have bacteria on our skin, and mosquitoes seem to be attracted to some types more than others. Body odor and skin temperature can also be factors.

One study found that people who’d recently consumed beer were more attractive to mosquitoes. They also seem to prefer pregnant women. Possibly because they have higher body temperatures and exhale more carbon dioxide.

Mosquitoes are also known for sniffing out lactic acid, ammonia and other compounds emitted in sweat. Exercise can increase the buildup of lactic acid.

Why are these bites dangerous?

Most mosquito bites are not dangerous. Many of us have been bitten by mosquitoes numerous times through the years and not suffered anything beyond itching.

But mosquitoes are vectors. Meaning they carry diseases between animals and humans. When that’s the case, the disease enters your bloodstream.

The most common mosquito-borne disease in North America is the West Nile virus. The CDC says it’s “the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States.”

We can blame the Culex mosquito for this one. Many people don’t get sick from it. But some people can have all sorts of problems with West Nile.

Including headaches and fevers. Plus stiff necks and confusion. It can also cause muscle weakness and even convulsions and coma.

Can I treat mosquito bites?

For some people, their only form of “treatment” is to scratch their mosquito bites. But this usually makes them itch more and longer.

And if you break the skin, you can expose yourself to an additional infection. So wash the area with soap and water and cover it with a bandage.

There are several better ways to treat a mosquito bite than by scratching. Ice will slow blood flow to the area, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling.

Applying aloe vera directly to the bite can relieve itching and discomfort. That’s due to the salicylic acid content of the plant’s leaves. You can also press a steeped chamomile tea bag to your bite.

Some people apply other items to their bites. Including honey, vinegar and even an oatmeal paste. Others like to use hydrocortisone cream or take an antihistamine.

Can I avoid mosquito bites?

It’s better to avoid mosquito bites than it is to treat them. Using mosquito repellent is one of the ways. There are over-the-counter sprays and rub-ons containing DEET. If you want to avoid that chemical, make your own concoction.

Apply it to exposed areas of skin. Mosquitos like thin-skinned areas because they can get to your blood easier. So focus on your feet, ankles, lower legs and wrists.

They are also attracted to dark colors. Wearing light-colored clothing when you’re outdoors could help. Long sleeves and pants can also be helpful for avoiding bites.

A thicker fabric with a looser fit is preferable to tight-fitting, thin fabrics.

And if you can avoid being outdoors around dawn and dusk, your blood won’t be available to them during their favorite parts of the day. When indoors, keep windows closed or make sure screens don’t have holes in them.

SunBuzz Solar Mosquito Lantern

My top recommendation for avoiding mosquito bites is the SunBuzz Solar Mosquito Lantern from 4Patriots.

You can take this compact and portable lantern anywhere you go. It charges for free in the sun and is rainproof and water-resistant. Without using pesticides or chemicals, it stops flying insects in their tracks.

This lantern has three different brightness settings and serves as a decorative light.

When you purchase several of them, you can hang them on tree branches or string them up on a clothesline to zap bugs in different areas of your property or campsite.

Here’s how to get yours…

Camping Season Is Back!

Spring is here, which means people all over the United States are starting to spend time outdoors again.

This is especially true for those who’ve been spending more time indoors than usual due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Folks are starting to go camping, hiking, fishing… you name it – again. It’s a great way to spend your time until the weather gets cold again.

That said, camping comes with inherent risks that you need to be aware of.

Fire

Camping and fire go hand in hand. It not only provides heat for cooking and protection from wild animals – but is the perfect place for memorable conversations. It can also create problems if not done properly.

Before you even start gathering wood, ensure the area where you are camping is not under a fire restriction ban. You don’t want to be responsible for thousands of acres of destruction due to an out-of-control forest fire.

Ensure the area where you plan to build your fire is clear of dry brush and deadfall, both around and above.
Dig a fire pit at least one foot deep and ideally surround the perimeter with rocks. Again, this is to mitigate/control the fire from moving away from the intended location.
Don’t overfeed your fire. Less is more when you build a campfire. You can always add more fuel, but be conservative.
Never leave your campfire without thoroughly extinguishing with water and smothering with dirt. If possible, wait an additional 30 minutes – called reflash watch.

Water filtration

If you plan to drink from an outdoor water source (river, stream, lake) you need to make sure you are consuming “safe” water. That means no bacteria and particulates that can ruin your week.

I have personally dealt with giardia on two occasions and it is not fun.

The first time, my doctor failed to properly diagnose (didn’t request a gram stain lab) and he was convinced I had leukemia. And to be honest, I felt like I was dying. Nope, it was giardia and after a week of the antibiotic Metronidazole (Flagyl), I felt like a million bucks.

There are several ways to make water safe to drink:

Boil for at least 5 minutes.
Filtration pump – make sure it removes microorganisms (giardia).
Filtration straw – again, make sure it removes microorganisms.
Purification tablets, which are my personal preference due to their small size and weight. Get the type that is 2-stage. First tablet kills the bacteria and the second tablet removes the taste of the first. This entire process only takes 30 minutes.
UV water filtration (SteriPEN) only takes a few minutes. Just remember one of my favorite sayings: “If it takes a battery, it’s gonna crap out exactly when you need it.” Pack extras.

Flash flooding

With severe spring storms already in full swing, you need to consider the possibility that a nearby water source could turn into a deadly wall of water traveling at an incredible speed.

Take into consideration when you choose your campsite. Better to be on higher ground and walk to the water source than risk getting swept away. Get at least a 3-day weather forecast and always keep an eye on the sky.

In the summer of 1976, Colorado’s Big Thompson Canyon had a flash flood due to a severe thunderstorm higher up in the canyon. Twelve inches of rain fell in less than four hours. The victims, including 143 dead, had seen little or no rain when the flood rushed down the canyon in a wall 20 feet high.

Rule #1: Climb to safety whether on foot or in your car (get out), get moving and CLIMB!

If you find yourself swept up by these rushing waters, position yourself so you are on your back with your feet in front of you. If you hit rocks, they will absorb the impact much better than your head. Then swim like hell to the nearest shore.

Bug protection

The many bugs you are likely to encounter while camping are not just an annoyance. Some of them can actually make you sick. Mosquitoes in particular.

Mosquitoes can carry diseases. Here in America we’re mostly concerned about West Nile virus. The CDC tells us that it’s “the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States.”

Use mosquito repellent when you go camping. Look for an over-the-counter spray or rub-on containing DEET. Or make your own concoction.

Apply it to any exposed area of skin. Especially feet, ankles, lower legs and wrists. Mosquitos like those thin-skinned areas because they can get to your blood easier.

Dark colors attract bugs, so wear light-colored clothing when camping. Thicker fabrics with a looser fit are a better choice than tight-fitting, thin fabrics. And keep in mind that mosquitoes are at their worst around dawn and dusk.

SunBuzz Solar Mosquito Lantern

My choice for keeping mosquitoes and other airborne bugs at bay while camping is the SunBuzz Solar Mosquito Lantern. It’s rainproof and water-resistant, and it charges for free in the sun.

I love how compact and portable it is. You can easily take it anywhere. It stops flying insects in their tracks without any pesticides or chemicals. And it also serves as a decorative light.

This lantern has three different brightness settings. Get several of them and you can string them up on a clothesline or on tree branches to zap bugs in different locations around your campsite. Check ‘em out here.

Enjoy the great outdoors this spring and summer. Just be prepared for the life-threatening situations that can present themselves.

Be a survivor… not a statistic.

Cade Courtley

Former Navy SEAL / 4Patriots Contributor

Here’s Your Winter Camping Checklist

There are two kinds of campers in America. One can hardly wait until spring so they can start camping again after at least three months away from it.

The other kind of camper doesn’t care which season it is. Camping is a passion for them. They’ll camp in the winter just as often – and with as much enthusiasm – as they will in the spring, summer or fall.

Obviously, staying warm is a challenge with winter camping. But there are advantages to camping during this season. Including solitude, quiet, more unused camping locations and a lack of pesky bugs.

If you’re one of the latter group, or if you want to try winter camping for the first time, today I’m going to provide you with a checklist of items to include in your winter camping gear. And as I often do, I’m saving one of the most important items for last.

Staying warm… awake or asleep

First and foremost, include plenty of warm clothing. Focus on layers. That means t-shirts, flannel shirts, waterproof jackets and a water-resistant down coat. And plenty of extra long underwear and thick socks. Plus a warm hat.

Waterproof boots and gloves are also essentials, of course. Your sleeping bags will probably have down insulation. It’s more expensive but is lighter, lasts longer and compresses smaller.

Sleeping pads are also very important. They’ll put an extra layer between the cold ground and you. Many people prefer inflatable pads to foam pads.

Needless to say, you’ll want to include plenty of blankets and pillows. Do your best to keep them dry.

More essentials

Here are more items I haven’t mentioned yet. How many of these you take will depend on whether you’re roughing it or heading to a campground where some amenities are provided. It might also depend on how long you’ll be gone.

Four-season tent, with footprints, stakes and mallet/hammer
Ground cloth/tarp
Backpack
Headlamps, flashlights and extra batteries
Camp table and chairs (if the site doesn’t have them)
Lantern
Snowshoes
Toiletries
First-aid kit including prescription meds
Lip balm
Sunglasses
Bandanas
Survival knife
Multi-tool
Duct tape
Paracord or rope
Saw or ax for cutting firewood
Compass and GPS
Binoculars
Whistle
Walkie-talkies
NOAA emergency radio
Disinfectant wipes
Documents including vehicle registration, insurance, reservations, etc.

Food-related items

Perishable food packed in a cooler or ice chest
Non-perishable food for snacking
Plenty of bottled water and other beverages
Personal water purifier
Fire starters
Cooking, serving and eating utensils
Cooking pots, pans, plates and cups
Tongs and skewers
Oven mitts
Cutting board
Canteen/thermos
Coffee pot
Can opener
Heavy duty aluminum foil
Dishwashing liquid and sponges
Paper towels and napkins
Tupperware
Zip-top bags
Trash and recycle bags

StarFire Camp Stove

As promised, I saved one of the most crucial winter camping items for the end. It’s the StarFire Camp Stove from 4Patriots.

When you need to cook food or stay warm without electrical power and without gas or butane, this is your best choice. Made of stainless steel, it “runs” on twigs and leaves, which you can find for free just about anywhere.

This low-smoke device turns cold food into hot meals. It boils water in eight to 12 minutes. It can also provide light and warmth. And since it weighs only about one pound, it fits in just about any backpack or bug-out bag. That’s portability.

Best of all, if you purchase four, you receive more than $270 in free gifts. Including the Patriot Power Cell, two 72-Hour Survival Food Kits, a Freedom Flame Flexible Arc Lighter and more. Not to mention an easy payment plan if you want it.

Has the Armyworm Invasion Reached You Yet?

It’s natural for green lawns to turn different shades of brown over the winter. But if it’s been happening to your lawn this fall, it may be due to something other than cold weather.

Armyworms are marching and munching. And if you live in the Northeast, Midwest, South or Southwest, you may be seeing their effects on your lawn.

They might be small, but they are very hungry. And they can get from here to there very quickly.

In fact, they are known to cover 500 miles in a 24-hour period. How does a worm move that quickly? By getting themselves into a jet stream and then dropping down.

Attacking at an ‘Unprecedented’ Rate

A number of states are reporting widespread and intense outbreaks of armyworms.

Due to current weather patterns, armyworms are attacking at an “unprecedented” rate. That’s according to The Smithsonian Magazine.

Rick Brandenburg is an entomologist at North Carolina State University. Here’s what he told USA Today.

“This year is like a perfect storm. In my 40 years, I have never seen the problem as widespread as it is this year.”

He added that in addition to North Carolina, other parts of the country are under attack. Such as Texas, Michigan and Northeastern states.

Rapid Reproduction Spells Trouble

Armyworms are seasonal. But their ability to reproduce quickly makes them a huge problem for lawns and plants. Every year there can be multiple generations produced.

According to Texas A&M University’s Aggie Turf website, female armyworms can lay up to 1,000 eggs on host plants or other surfaces.

Armyworms have four life stages. They are the egg, larva, pupa and adult moths. The development from eggs to full-grown larvae takes two to three weeks. The larvae then burrows in soil and emerges as adults up to two weeks later.

They both fly and mate at night. The worms are really more like caterpillars that grow up to two inches long. They’re green, brown or black, and usually have an inverted “Y” on their head capsules.

Two Strains, No Waiting

Once these pests start doing their damage, it looks like lawns are experiencing drought. They can resemble a barren wasteland.

What’s really happening is that the armyworm larvae are stripping tissue from turf grass leaves.

They attack a wide variety of plants. Especially when their other food sources are in limited supply. The corn strain of armyworms feeds on corn, sorghum and cotton. The rice strain devours rice, alfalfa and millet. Plus pasture grasses and lawns.

They are most active during early morning and late evening hours. And their destruction is usually very rapid. Sometimes overnight.

Untreated Grass Is Susceptible

Here are some comments from the Texas A&M website. “Damage may initially resemble drought stress. But (they) will progress to complete loss of foliage. If numbers are sufficient and the turf grass is left untreated.

“There may also sometimes be a distinct line between damaged and undamaged areas.

“Healthy and actively growing bermuda grass typically recovers after infestation and defoliation. (That’s) due to its aggressive rhizomatous and stoloniferous growth habit.” (Try saying that three times fast. Or even once.)

“However, newly established bunch-type grasses, such as ryegrass or fescue, may be stunted or killed by armyworm feeding.”

Laying Waste to Everything

Eric Rebek is an entomology professor at Oklahoma State University. In his state, armyworms have been devastating grass pastures and lawns this fall. Plus fields of peanuts, alfalfa and cotton. As well as double-cropped soybean and sorghum.

He says the unprecedented number of armyworms is also making its presence felt in Maryland, Kentucky and Tennessee.

“They just lay waste to everything in their path, moving through just like an army on the move,” Rebek said. “They can easily munch their way through whatever. Whether it’s a lawn or a park or a golf course.”

Grasses in warmer weather states have a better chance of regenerating. In cold weather states, the grasses can be permanently devastated.

Natural Deterrents Are Unreliable

So, what can stop these armyworms from attacking and destroying your lawn? Well, they do have predators, but there’s no guarantee they will show up for battle.

Parasites and diseases can also kill armyworms. But you can’t count on them to occur and do the job.

Some insecticides are more effective than others against armyworm attacks. But their chemicals present other problems. Including killing armyworm predators.

Plus, armyworms have tremendous resiliency. An attack against them right after their eggs hatch is the best timing. The eggs look like Styrofoam balls. They can be found stuck to the sides of buildings and patio furniture.

But, as the Smithsonian warns, “Your grass is pretty much a goner no matter what.”

Management, Yes; Control, No

Bethany Pratt is a Jefferson County horticulture education agent. She works for the University of Kentucky’s Cooperative Extension Service.

She says it’s more about managing than controlling.

“Nothing will ever do 100 percent control unless you’re also getting rid of your lawn, she said.

Fortunately, there is one surefire killer of the armyworm. That’s frost. But by the time Jack Frost makes an appearance, the damage has usually been done.

There’s another method that I use to get rid of other bugs and flying pests… It’s the BugOUT Solar Lantern.

It zaps bugs dead in their tracks, so you can enjoy a bug-FREE backyard. And, my favorite part… it’s self-cleaning.

It’s already Day 6 of the 12 Days of Christmas… so hurry & stock up on your BugOut Solar Lanterns today.

Give the gift of a bug-FREE backyard

Cade’s Corner: Basic Survival Go Bag

Today I want to take a few minutes to go over some important preparedness basics.

Most people understand that being prepared can make all the difference in the event of a crisis or emergency situation.

And by now, with all the crazy things happening in this world, nearly everyone understands it CAN happen to you – and at some point it likely will.

But here’s the simple fact. Most people also haven’t started.

So whether that’s you, or you’ve already taken some steps to be ready in an emergency, this will be a good overview.

Let me quickly show you how to put together a survival kit, or “go bag.” The basics.

This isn’t intended to be comprehensive. And your own personal situation may require items specific to you or your family, like medications. But the point here is to take the first step, get the basic materials together…

And then make it better.

So I’m going to show you a bare bones version. Which – let’s face it – is better than nothing, and something you can put together TODAY.

Plus, I’ll share some simple ways to make it even better – without spending a fortune to do it.

Ok, let’s get started.

For your basic survival kit, hurricane box or go bag, you’re going to need something to hold your gear. A backpack is ideal, because you can pick it up and go and keep your hands free if you’re on the move.

But in a pinch, any duffel, cinch sack or even a trash bag will do the job if it’s all you’ve got. Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good enough, at least for now.

That means get it together now, and make it better as soon as you can.

Now, let’s talk about food.

In an emergency, no matter what it is, you’re going to need something to eat. You can start with non-perishable, portable foods like granola bars, beef jerky or packs of crackers.

For a quick & dirty version of a kit, having something – anything to eat – beats the alternative.

But this is something you’ll want to upgrade soon. Because when it comes to food, you can’t be complacent.

These quick things you can pull together here don’t last forever, and they aren’t meals. So upgrading to shelf-stable meals like a 4Patriots 72-hour Survival Food kit makes total sense. You get significantly more calories and you will be a lot more satisfied. And you don’t have to worry about rotating your food every few months.

A pack of 4Patriots Emergency Food bars is another great option, because these bars last 5 years, and can withstand extreme temperatures. So stashing them in your car or garage isn’t going to be a problem.

Next comes water. At the very least, I’d suggest some bottled water and a canteen or refillable bottle. Again, this is the bare minimum.

To make your kit better, you have a few options. A Patriot Pure Personal Water Filter makes virtually any freshwater safe to drink. It’s portable, lightweight and very functional. Or you can even get a collapsible water bottle that will not only treat waterborne contaminants, but also functions as a rechargeable lantern.

It’s upgrades like this – things that serve multiple functions – that’ll take your kit to the next level.

I’d also suggest you assemble options for light. Seeing your way in the dark, during a storm or power outage, or making sure others can see and find you, is a must.

So a well built flashlight should definitely be in your bag.

But if you’re going to pack a regular flashlight, you’re going to need to include batteries too. That’s why a HaloXT is a great upgrade choice. It’s rechargeable via solar, can offload power to juice up your phone in a pinch, and has other life saving tools that make it perfect for stashing in your car.

You’re going to need fire too, for cooking and warmth, so some lighters or waterproof matches are a must.

To upgrade here, a rechargeable, flameless lighter like a Firebolt is smart. Because it can help you start a fire even when it’s windy, and it has a built-in flashlight function. Plus it never needs fuel.

Again, multi-functional wins the day.

Once you’ve covered the basics with your kit – food, water, light, and fire – you can customize it with all kinds of items. Spare clothes, items for shelter, first aid and more.

Just be careful not to pack too much. I’ve seen some folks pack 50-60 pounds of stuff together and they can hardly lug it out the door. This is a go bag, not a “drag bag.”

Remember, it doesn’t need to be perfect out of the gate. But you do need to start to get prepared, and the time to start is now.

Even a very basic kit puts you ahead of most of your friends and neighbors, believe me.

You definitely don’t want to wait until a storm is bearing down on you, or you have to leave the safety of your home quickly, to start thinking about these things.

I want you to be a survivor, not a statistic. So do yourself a favor, and commit to getting a kit together as soon as possible.

Don’t Forget Backup Power on Your Camping/RV Checklist

There are few worse feelings in the world than remembering that you forgot something. Especially if it happens at a time when you can’t un-do your forgetfulness.

Like when you’re well on your way toward a vacation destination. Or when you’re in your RV, traveling to that special cabin in the woods. Or after you’ve arrived at a campsite.

In fact, I hate that feeling so much that I always put together a comprehensive essentials checklist in advance of my trips. And I literally check off each item after it’s packed.

I’ve been told I’m anal-retentive. But I’d much rather be called that than suddenly realize I had forgotten to pack something after it’s too late to remedy the situation.

Fall camping is fun

The fall is a great time for camping. Whether you’re driving there in your car, truck or RV. The weather is not too hot and not too cold. To quote Goldilocks, it’s just right.

And if you have all the stuff you might need, you can fully relax and enjoy your time away from the busyness of everyday life.

Today I want to provide you with a list of camping essentials that I use. I’ve tried to include everything, but you probably won’t need it all. Just pick what works for you and your family or companions.

The last time I compiled a list like this for you, I emphasized food items. They’re still very important, but today I want to single out backup power. It always comes in handy.

I’m also adding items for those of you using an RV for the first time, or one of the first times.

Don’t over (or under) pack

One of my family members likes to say, “If you’ve got it, pack it.” I’m not too crazy about that idea. I want enough but not too much for a camping trip.

To me, camping is about getting away from the rat race. I want a different kind of routine when I’m away from home. It’s a nice change of pace to see, use, wear and eat different things than normally.

You can make do with less on a camping trip by reducing the clutter. At the same time, you can still take all the essentials.

So, here’s the promised list of camping items. How many of these you pack could depend on whether you’re roughing it or heading to a campground where some amenities are provided. It might also depend on how long you’ll be gone.

Tent, with footprints, stakes and mallet/hammer
Ground cloth/tarp
Sleeping bags
Sleeping pads
Backpack
Blankets and pillows
Headlamps, flashlights and extra batteries
Camp table and chairs (if the site doesn’t have them)
Mini-grill or camping stove
Lantern
Clothesline with clips
Toiletries
First-aid kit
Prescription meds
Sunscreen and protective hats
Insect repellant
Lip balm
Rain gear
Extra clothing, including several pairs of socks and underwear
Hiking boots
Bandanas
Survival knife
Multi-tool
Duct tape
Paracord or rope
Saw or ax for cutting firewood (if needed)
Compass
Binoculars
Field guides for flowers and insects
Whistle
Walkie-talkies
NOAA emergency radio
Disinfectant wipes
Documents including vehicle registration, insurance, reservations, etc.

Food/food-related items

Perishable food packed in a cooler or ice chest
Non-perishable food for snacking
Plenty of bottled water and other beverages
Personal water purifier
Fire starters
Cooking, serving and eating utensils
Cooking pots, pans, plates and cups
Tongs and skewers
Oven mitts
Cutting board
Tablecloth with clips or tape
Canteen/thermos
Coffee pot
Can opener
Heavy duty aluminum foil
Dishwashing liquid and sponges
Paper towels and napkins
Tupperware
Zip-top bags
Trash and recycle bags

RV Essentials

During the worst of the pandemic, sales of RV campers skyrocketed. Many people who traditionally vacationed in popular and often crowded places decided to limit their contact with strangers.

RVs are a great way to travel and camp. But it’s best to know what to take with you in order to handle potential problems with a new-to-you vehicle. Here are plenty of items to consider, taken from a variety of sources:

Your RV manual
Drinking water hose
Sewer kit including hose
Surge protector
Generator
Electrical adapters
Water pressure regulator
Tire pressure gauge
Emergency road kit
Extra motor oil and fluids (washer, transmission, brake)
Fire extinguisher
Wheel chocks
Rubber gloves
Emergency brake cable
Tire iron
Tire patch
Jack
Leveling blocks
Emergency warning light
Fuses
Well-stocked tool box
Jumper cables

Stay powered up

As mentioned, I want to remind you of the importance of backup power when you’re on a camping trip. There are plenty of reasons for needing backup power. They include charging up your…

Cellphones
Emergency radio
Mini-fridge
Electric blanket
Blender
Hotplate
Lights inside a tent
Outdoor security lights
Laptop or tablet
Coffee maker
Toaster oven
CPAP machine and other medical devices
Handheld electronic games
Boombox
Electric razor
Mini-TV
Blow-up mattress pump
GPS unit

Without backup power, any one of the things listed above could prove useless to you on a camping trip. Yes, you could get by without some of them, but what if you had to make an emergency phone call?

What if an unexpected storm was headed your way and you needed information about it quickly? What if your perishable food started to go bad? Worst of all, what if you needed to power up crucial medical equipment?

Camping trips are a lot of fun and a great way to unwind with family or friends. They’re good for your body, mind and soul.

Just make sure you don’t forget to pack any of the essentials before you leave home.

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