BEING PREPARED
FOR AN EMERGENCY!
Dawn of a New Day, Could you be better Prepared for 2023 ?
Some of these tips could help you be better prepared.
A new day dawning 2022 from ISS
Be Prepared !
Sounds like the Boy Scouts have arrived. Well, in this case, that old Scouting Moto really makes good sense. Being prepared encompasses a lot of aspects...knowledge, skills and organization are the most important. Sure, you can go out and buy all kinds of stuff you see, hear and read about but do you know how to use it ? Like buying a tent and never setting it up, or having a gun and not sighting it in or knowing how to clean or load it. Or knowing how to field dress or clean a fish or animal, once harvested. Do you know how to start a fire, sharpen a knife or make temporary shelter ? It's a lot of little things like this that can make or break you, if you are ever put in any kind of an emergency situation. Having the peace of mind, knowing that you have the knowledge and skills it takes and applying them, when needed is just the start.
Organization is a big factor in an emergency. If you don't know where your supplies are or maybe they are scattered all over the house, garage and basement, they aren't serving you as effectively as they could or should. Having a plan for different situations and stockpiling supplies in several different safe locations for each scenario is a good idea. So as you go around the house, condo, dorm or apartment and you see something you think should be part of your supplies, grab it and store it in the new, central, location you've chosen and add it and go find more stuff.
The next time you go to the grocery store, dollar store or maybe even the hardware store, pickup a little something extra to add to your emergency supplies. It doesn't have to be expensive to work and add value to your plan and the supplies.
I've put together some helpful tips of things you might already have around your house, that you can gather and have ready, for whatever kind of an emergency you may have.
Sounds like the Boy Scouts have arrived. Well, in this case, that old Scouting Moto really makes good sense. Being prepared encompasses a lot of aspects...knowledge, skills and organization are the most important. Sure, you can go out and buy all kinds of stuff you see, hear and read about but do you know how to use it ? Like buying a tent and never setting it up, or having a gun and not sighting it in or knowing how to clean or load it. Or knowing how to field dress or clean a fish or animal, once harvested. Do you know how to start a fire, sharpen a knife or make temporary shelter ? It's a lot of little things like this that can make or break you, if you are ever put in any kind of an emergency situation. Having the peace of mind, knowing that you have the knowledge and skills it takes and applying them, when needed is just the start.
Organization is a big factor in an emergency. If you don't know where your supplies are or maybe they are scattered all over the house, garage and basement, they aren't serving you as effectively as they could or should. Having a plan for different situations and stockpiling supplies in several different safe locations for each scenario is a good idea. So as you go around the house, condo, dorm or apartment and you see something you think should be part of your supplies, grab it and store it in the new, central, location you've chosen and add it and go find more stuff.
The next time you go to the grocery store, dollar store or maybe even the hardware store, pickup a little something extra to add to your emergency supplies. It doesn't have to be expensive to work and add value to your plan and the supplies.
I've put together some helpful tips of things you might already have around your house, that you can gather and have ready, for whatever kind of an emergency you may have.
Prepared for Severe Weather ?
Hurricane over the Atlantic
With all this technology and advance warning for Tropical Storms, Depressions & Hurricanes either in the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean and heading north to the coast, we will probably still see images on the Nightly News of tens of thousands of people rushing to the store to "BUY" the simplest of supplies like bottled water before the hurricane hits. Maybe it's staged by the media or maybe it's old video stock but we keep seeing store shelves if not the entire store completely emptied.
I personally can't believe that anyone living in an area that could have hurricanes annually wouldnt be better prepared. Water should be the first thing to store and can be gathered when 2 liter bottles are emptied, rinsed out and filled with fresh tap water and stored in a cool dry place. Gas and propane can also be stored ahead of time and used when and if needed.. I definitely wouldn't be going out to buy any type of food needing refrigeration, when your area will probably have it's power knocked out for an undetermined length of time. That food will likely spoil and eventually be thrown away. I know breads don't store long in summer heat of Florida but there must be something like crackers and energy bars that can last a while. It's not a bad idea to have a bag of some sort packed in the car incase you need to leave. It's never too late to start being more prepared.
Who remembers the 5 day power outage Hurricane Ike caused in 2008 ? We had wind gusts up to 80 mph that caused a lot of tree damage and knocked out our power. Luckily the weather was warm and dry and the whole city wasn't affected. Home City Ice was still being delivered to Wal-Mart and those that had coolers could preserve some food supplies. Lots of our neighbors weren't prepared and lost a lot of food needlessly. Some neighbors didn't even have matches to light a candle in their home at night.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
WARNING Tornado Season is upon us Are you prepared ?
Tornadoes in the dark
The Ohio Tornado Season begins in April and goes till July (as it overlaps with Hurricane Season), even though we have had tornadoes in March before. Pay attention to the Weather Alerts and listen for the Severe Weather Sirens.
Do you have a plan for your family if one should come while you're home ?
It has been my experience that the majority of tornadoes occur in the early evening, overnight and the wee hours of the morning.
If your home has a basement, it can be used for emergency shelter in case of a tornado. Again, you can probably find space to store bottled water and food supplies.
I'm Old School so I'd also include a whistle, radio/cell phone (w/weather app), flashlight, spare batteries/cell phone charger and perhaps some candles, matches and or a lighter, in with your supplies. Bicycle, motorcycle or even construction type helmets can help protect your head from flying or falling debris. What's your plan?
Click here for WCPO Weather updates
http://www.wcpo.com/subindex/weather
A Tornado Warning is when one has been sighted in your area and you need to prepare yourself incase one ends up in your neighborhood.
A Tornado Watch is when conditions are right for tornados to form.
Do you have a plan for your family if one should come while you're home ?
It has been my experience that the majority of tornadoes occur in the early evening, overnight and the wee hours of the morning.
If your home has a basement, it can be used for emergency shelter in case of a tornado. Again, you can probably find space to store bottled water and food supplies.
I'm Old School so I'd also include a whistle, radio/cell phone (w/weather app), flashlight, spare batteries/cell phone charger and perhaps some candles, matches and or a lighter, in with your supplies. Bicycle, motorcycle or even construction type helmets can help protect your head from flying or falling debris. What's your plan?
Click here for WCPO Weather updates
http://www.wcpo.com/subindex/weather
A Tornado Warning is when one has been sighted in your area and you need to prepare yourself incase one ends up in your neighborhood.
A Tornado Watch is when conditions are right for tornados to form.
Being Better Prepared for an EMERGENCY
It doesn't matter if you live in a House, Apartment or Dorm Room, there are ideas here to be better prepared.
1. Don’t panic, have a plan & treat this like an adventure.
A. Whatever bad weather they may be predicting, have a plan and try to follow that plan to be better prepared. Being organized helps a lot.
B. In the event of a tornado or flat-line (straight-line) winds, move to a safe part of your home (like the basement or inner part of your home)
C. If your basement is your "GO TO PLACE" in an emergency, have tools like crowbar, pry-bar and sledge hammer to help get out if trapped there
D. Use bicycle or motorcycle helmets, if you have them, in your Tornado Kit, to protect your head and face, Stay away from windows
E. If it is a power outage have your emergency plan and supplies prepared (in either case)
F. Try to have your car's gas tank filled up before the storm and checkout the list below for other suggestions
G. Knowing in advance of a coming storm, try having your cell phone charged
H. What if your basement is flooding, does your sump pump work, do you have tools to help the situation & local water works phone number?
2. Have a 3 day supply of bottled water (or as much as you can store)
A. We use 2 liter pop bottles, cleaned (recycle) and filled with normal tap water & stored in a cool, dark place...not the garage
B. Each person in your household should have a gallon of water per day, to drink, use for cooking and hygiene according to the American Red
Cross and FEMA. (Do not re-use old milk or juice jugs or bottles)
C. You can never have enough water
1. Don’t panic, have a plan & treat this like an adventure.
A. Whatever bad weather they may be predicting, have a plan and try to follow that plan to be better prepared. Being organized helps a lot.
B. In the event of a tornado or flat-line (straight-line) winds, move to a safe part of your home (like the basement or inner part of your home)
C. If your basement is your "GO TO PLACE" in an emergency, have tools like crowbar, pry-bar and sledge hammer to help get out if trapped there
D. Use bicycle or motorcycle helmets, if you have them, in your Tornado Kit, to protect your head and face, Stay away from windows
E. If it is a power outage have your emergency plan and supplies prepared (in either case)
F. Try to have your car's gas tank filled up before the storm and checkout the list below for other suggestions
G. Knowing in advance of a coming storm, try having your cell phone charged
H. What if your basement is flooding, does your sump pump work, do you have tools to help the situation & local water works phone number?
2. Have a 3 day supply of bottled water (or as much as you can store)
A. We use 2 liter pop bottles, cleaned (recycle) and filled with normal tap water & stored in a cool, dark place...not the garage
B. Each person in your household should have a gallon of water per day, to drink, use for cooking and hygiene according to the American Red
Cross and FEMA. (Do not re-use old milk or juice jugs or bottles)
C. You can never have enough water
3. Keep a nice supply of canned & dry goods on hand
A. In a power outage, fresh & frozen items will spoil faster, canned foods have a longer shelf life
B. Stock cans of fruits, vegetables, unsweetened applesauce, soups & jars of peanut butter
C. Have a supply of dry goods like crackers, dry cereals, rice & pasta (Minute Rice takes less water and energy to make than regular rice or pasta)
but remember to rotate the crackers and cereals once a year (using the old stuff and replacing it with freshly bought)
D. Store your rice in cleaned out, totally dry, 2 liter pop bottles to keep your rice supply water proof (white rice stores longer than brown rice)
E. Keep cans or sealed pouches of meats like tuna, salmon, corned beef & beef jerky
F. Sealed snacks like chewing gum, trail mix, nuts, dried fruits packaged granola bars, filled snack crackers & hard candy can be a good idea
G. Have a manual (hand cranked) can opener handy (remember, if your power is out...the electric one won't work) or military P-38 (John Wayne)
H. Old Fashioned Oatmeal, original Cream of Wheat, white granulated sugar and honey are good items to put in your Emergency Food Supplies
I store mine in recycled, plastic bottles, like I do with the rice, to keep it fresh and water-proof
I. Tootsie Rolls are a good candy to keep in your supplies, they have a longer shelf-life than beef jerky and were put in GI's C-Rations in WWII
They are temperature tolerant (won't melt in heat and won't freeze in cold).
A. In a power outage, fresh & frozen items will spoil faster, canned foods have a longer shelf life
B. Stock cans of fruits, vegetables, unsweetened applesauce, soups & jars of peanut butter
C. Have a supply of dry goods like crackers, dry cereals, rice & pasta (Minute Rice takes less water and energy to make than regular rice or pasta)
but remember to rotate the crackers and cereals once a year (using the old stuff and replacing it with freshly bought)
D. Store your rice in cleaned out, totally dry, 2 liter pop bottles to keep your rice supply water proof (white rice stores longer than brown rice)
E. Keep cans or sealed pouches of meats like tuna, salmon, corned beef & beef jerky
F. Sealed snacks like chewing gum, trail mix, nuts, dried fruits packaged granola bars, filled snack crackers & hard candy can be a good idea
G. Have a manual (hand cranked) can opener handy (remember, if your power is out...the electric one won't work) or military P-38 (John Wayne)
H. Old Fashioned Oatmeal, original Cream of Wheat, white granulated sugar and honey are good items to put in your Emergency Food Supplies
I store mine in recycled, plastic bottles, like I do with the rice, to keep it fresh and water-proof
I. Tootsie Rolls are a good candy to keep in your supplies, they have a longer shelf-life than beef jerky and were put in GI's C-Rations in WWII
They are temperature tolerant (won't melt in heat and won't freeze in cold).
4. Camping Gear is Survival Gear in an Emergency
A. Sleeping bags can be un-zipped & used as comforters or zipped inside with blankets layered over (in cold)
B. Camp stoves & fuel can be used to make quick hot meals or heating water to wash with (always use in a well ventilated area, away from
flammables)
C. Tents can be used for temporary shelter outside or additional insulating barrier inside (if the tent is a free-standing model)
D. Folding camp saw, hatchet & machete can be used for cutting wood for fires to cook over and warmth
E. Flashlights, batteries, candles, matches and lighters should be kept and used sparingly (keep open flames away from flammable materials pets &
children)
F. Paper towels & plates have multiple uses and can all be burned in the fire when finished using
G. Don't forget coolers will not keep food frozen, they only keep food cool so it doesn't spoil as quickly (and only if you can get ice)
H. A pocket knife, survival-style sheath knives, Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman (multi-purpose) Tools are handy items to have around
and remember, you can never have too many knives.
I. Having a backpack packed with a change of clothes, spare socks, signal whistle, a small first-aid kit and necessary toiletries is a good idea.
J. Appropriate cookware for cooking over and open fire can range from a skewer to cast iron pots and pans.
K. Water bottles, canteens all the way down to aluminum foil to fashion a cup to hold water is a necessity.
L. Having a supply of wood, ranging from tinder, to kindling to logs if you ever need to build a fire for cooking and warmth.
M. Fishing tackle and some sort of boat will allow you to float out to a productive spot, catch fish to filet, cook and eat
A. Sleeping bags can be un-zipped & used as comforters or zipped inside with blankets layered over (in cold)
B. Camp stoves & fuel can be used to make quick hot meals or heating water to wash with (always use in a well ventilated area, away from
flammables)
C. Tents can be used for temporary shelter outside or additional insulating barrier inside (if the tent is a free-standing model)
D. Folding camp saw, hatchet & machete can be used for cutting wood for fires to cook over and warmth
E. Flashlights, batteries, candles, matches and lighters should be kept and used sparingly (keep open flames away from flammable materials pets &
children)
F. Paper towels & plates have multiple uses and can all be burned in the fire when finished using
G. Don't forget coolers will not keep food frozen, they only keep food cool so it doesn't spoil as quickly (and only if you can get ice)
H. A pocket knife, survival-style sheath knives, Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman (multi-purpose) Tools are handy items to have around
and remember, you can never have too many knives.
I. Having a backpack packed with a change of clothes, spare socks, signal whistle, a small first-aid kit and necessary toiletries is a good idea.
J. Appropriate cookware for cooking over and open fire can range from a skewer to cast iron pots and pans.
K. Water bottles, canteens all the way down to aluminum foil to fashion a cup to hold water is a necessity.
L. Having a supply of wood, ranging from tinder, to kindling to logs if you ever need to build a fire for cooking and warmth.
M. Fishing tackle and some sort of boat will allow you to float out to a productive spot, catch fish to filet, cook and eat
5. Emergency supplies
A. Weather-band radio or Weather Ap on your phone or watch.
B. First-aid kit with bandages, (assorted band-aids) anti-bacterial scrub, tweezers, scissors, Krazy Glue (stitches), bandana (sling or tourniquet)
paper towels, glasses repair kit & duct tape.
C. Packed bag with comfortable shoes & clothes (suggested, sweat pants & shirt, shorts, t-shirt, gym shoes & several pairs of socks)
D. Spare cans of gasoline for your car (maybe a couple of 5 gallon cans)
E. Spare tank or two of propane for gas grills
F. Extra matches, batteries & fuel for flashlights, lanterns and camp stoves
G. Steel wool & magnesium fire starters to start fires
H. Poncho, hat & gloves (depending on the weather)
I. Toiletries (bag with soap, toothbrush, tooth paste, dental floss, disposable razor, travel size shaving cream, folding scissors & shampoo)
J. Several bundles of rope, spool of string, duck tape and coil of stainless steel wire
K. Toilet paper & feminine hygiene products (for the ladies of the house)
L. Sledge Hammer, Shovel, Crow Bar, Pry Bar and Hand Saw (in case you have to dig out or in)
M. Add a whistle to your supplies (maybe one for each family member) in an emergency, they can be heard better than you screaming for HELP
and last longer than your voice would normally hold out for.
N. If in a quarantined like situation games of all kinds, cards, books and magazines could come in handy.
A. Weather-band radio or Weather Ap on your phone or watch.
B. First-aid kit with bandages, (assorted band-aids) anti-bacterial scrub, tweezers, scissors, Krazy Glue (stitches), bandana (sling or tourniquet)
paper towels, glasses repair kit & duct tape.
C. Packed bag with comfortable shoes & clothes (suggested, sweat pants & shirt, shorts, t-shirt, gym shoes & several pairs of socks)
D. Spare cans of gasoline for your car (maybe a couple of 5 gallon cans)
E. Spare tank or two of propane for gas grills
F. Extra matches, batteries & fuel for flashlights, lanterns and camp stoves
G. Steel wool & magnesium fire starters to start fires
H. Poncho, hat & gloves (depending on the weather)
I. Toiletries (bag with soap, toothbrush, tooth paste, dental floss, disposable razor, travel size shaving cream, folding scissors & shampoo)
J. Several bundles of rope, spool of string, duck tape and coil of stainless steel wire
K. Toilet paper & feminine hygiene products (for the ladies of the house)
L. Sledge Hammer, Shovel, Crow Bar, Pry Bar and Hand Saw (in case you have to dig out or in)
M. Add a whistle to your supplies (maybe one for each family member) in an emergency, they can be heard better than you screaming for HELP
and last longer than your voice would normally hold out for.
N. If in a quarantined like situation games of all kinds, cards, books and magazines could come in handy.
6 Protect, Defend & Hunt
You may have certain weapons in your supplies for hunting, protection and even defending yourself, your family and your cache of supplies if the SHTF. From primitive to modern and anything in between.
A. Stainless Steel Wire for snaring small game.
B. Slingshot, knives, pikes and spears
C. Bow and arrows
D. Tactical Tomahawk for CQB
E. Club (baseball bat)
F. BB or pellet pistol and/or rifle
G. Rimfire or centerfire pistols, rifles and shotguns (large & small game)
No matter what your choice of weaponry is, make sure to have plenty of ammo accessible and don't be wasteful.
You may have certain weapons in your supplies for hunting, protection and even defending yourself, your family and your cache of supplies if the SHTF. From primitive to modern and anything in between.
A. Stainless Steel Wire for snaring small game.
B. Slingshot, knives, pikes and spears
C. Bow and arrows
D. Tactical Tomahawk for CQB
E. Club (baseball bat)
F. BB or pellet pistol and/or rifle
G. Rimfire or centerfire pistols, rifles and shotguns (large & small game)
No matter what your choice of weaponry is, make sure to have plenty of ammo accessible and don't be wasteful.
What's Next ? (a rant or just me rambling)
Stockpiling essentials while prices are lower
During the Trump administration, gas was down to $1.87 and was never raised for some flimsy accuse during a Holiday weekend.
Our current administration shutdown our natural gas and oil pipelines and now we are more dependent on Russia, Iran and Venezuela, production for our fuel needs.
February 24th, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine.
Since the takeover of the current administration, we've seen our gas prices go immediately from $1.97 to $2.39.
Jan 2022 gas is $2.39
Feb 2022 gas goes to $3.79
Mar 2022 gas goes to $4.09
Apr 2022 gas goes to $4.15 May 2022 gas goes to $4.59 Jun 2022 gas goes to $5.09
July 2022 gas dropping to $3.95
Aug 2022 gas drops to $3.75
Sep 2022 gas drops to $3.49
Oct 2022 gas goes to $3.99
Nov 2022 gas drops to $3.49
Dec 2022 gas drops to $2.75
Jan 2023 gas goes to $3.19
In July we saw gas prices fall but prices are all over the place by area and station. Ranging from $3.95- $4.29 and still up to $4.59. At least during Obama's rein, the price of gasoline never went over $4.00. That was bad enough...now it's worse.
As of March 3rd. Some food prices have gone up 25-50%. Fast food has almost doubled in recent days. Some foods are periodically running out or low on the shelves.
I am watching everything that affects us and stocking up. Things we took for granted that were 10 for $10 are now 4 for $5, compared to yesterday. Kroger brand cereals have gone from $1.39 to $1.89 to $199. Now our store is running out of all types of Kroger brand cereals.
Kellogg's Cereals are $4.59 and up to nearly $6.00 a box.
Kroger's brand pre-cooked bacon has gone from 2 for $5.00 to a flat $4.19 per package.
Kroger's brand Ice Cream Sandwiches were on sale one week for $1.97, the next week the sale price is $2.97.
Kroger's canned vegetables were $2.00 for a 4-pak now on sale for $3.29 for the 4-pak
Kroger's brand canned vegetables individually are now $.79-$.89 per can, now $1.00 per can
Kroger's brand pastas were 10 for $10, went to $1.89 per box
Kroger's brand packaged deli meats (ham, salami turkey etc) could be found regularly 2 for $5.00 now more like 2 for $6.00, now $4.29 per pak.
Kroger's white bread went from a $1.00 a loaf to a $1.89 and seems smaller. Now $1.99 11/1/22.
Kroger's head of Iceburg Lettuce is $1.99 each.
Kroger's pancake syrup went from $1.39- $1.49 to now $1.99 for a regular size bottle. Now, in December it is up to $2.29 for the same bottle.
Crumb-dilly-icious Graham Crackers have gone from $1.29 to $1.89 per box at Kroger's
Barilla pasta could be found 10 for $10 and went to $1.89 per box
Wal-Mart Great Value canned vegetables were $.44 cents a can, then went to $.50 cents, then $.54, now $.58 cents per can. Corn & green beans down to $.50 per can
Wal-Mart items we use to see 10 for $10, now like Kroger's have gone to 4 for $5.00
Wal-Mart Minute Rice is $5.69 for a Large box (still holding steady on 5/20/22)
Dollar Tree, all items now $1.25 or more for all items
Little Ceasar's Pizza was $5.55 for a large hot n ready pizza but now is $6;49.
Cheap Bay Bridge Wine has gone up from $3.49 to $3.99
Baby Formula Shortages are happening nationwide, Gerber brand is $32.99 per can
Mini Pecan Pies (Joyce's favorite) have been out of stock for more than two months at both Wal-Mart & Kroger's. (now back in stock) and up to $1.59 each at Kroger's but only $.74 each at Wal-Mart.
Campbell's soups were a $1.00 per can now $1.89 a can at Kroger's and $1.18 a can at Wal-Mart
We saw DiGiorno's self rising crust pizzas on sale today for $7.29, they use to go on sale from $3.99 - $5.00
Pilsbury Freach Bread is now in a smaller package and has gone from $2.59 to $3.99 per tube.
Today I saw a 1.9 pound package of bacon that was originally priced for almost $18.00, reduced in the Manager's Special for $8.00 (still more than I'd pay).
Kroger's Extra Large Eggs are selling for $2.49 a dozen
Kroger's 10-pak of hamburger patties for $10.00 has gone up again , like it did during COVID days to $11.99 for 10-pak.
Country Crock Margarine is selling for $5.99 for the larger tub
Kroger's Fortify, Protein Drink is up to $8.99 per 6-pak. Compared to the Ensure 4-pak for $13.99, is still high but a better deal than the Ensure.
Meat prices are high even in the Manager's Special section. Chicken in the Deli is still a good deal, versus buying uncooked chicken and cooking it yourself. I'm watching for sales on simple things like hotdogs, Braunschweiger and packaged deli-style meats like sliced ham, salami or turkey.
Kroger's brand of brick or shredded cheeses in the 8 oz size can still be found on sale at a good price and made better when coupons are used with the sale price.
Trying to economize during this crisis is getting harder and harder. I'm trying to make sure we are both stocked up with our meds and vitamins...at least for the next 90 days.
I'm topping off with gas whenever I can find a cheaper price. I also have a couple spare cans of gas stored away, along with a couple extra tanks of propane for the grill. I'm imagining the worst-case scenario here. Maybe the grid going down, supply lines cut off or slowed or even rationed. My mind turns in strange ways, but I try to be prepared...even mentally. I'm going as far as making dental appointments before the SHTF, for both of us. They may say COVID is over or controllable but this maybe the next crisis the government will probably let us down on.
I'm hoping to retire soon but I wonder if my Social Security check will even make it ? Where will we be in six months ? What will the country look like by then ?
Lately we have had reason to call both the local Police and Fire Departments. I have made sure I have their numbers not only in my cell phone but posted at each of our phones in the house. I'm keeping my cell phone charged and have chargers for both AC & DC power sources. It's the little things that add up that could help in troubling times.
Witnessed & Written by J.Scott Keniston
When is enough...enough ?
Prepping supplies
Yes, I like to think we are prepared more than some but maybe not as much as others but when is enough, enough? We each have backpacks with emergency essentials packed that we keep in the car and can grab and go if needed. I also have an EDC (Every Day Carry) Bag or Man Purse that has a lot of duplicate items in it, just like the backpack. I also have a couple different emergency kits under the seat of the car and in the glove compartment. My thinking of all these kits is, whatever the emergency, if we have to leave the car, whatever we can grab, is a start. The more time we have, the more we can grab and the better off we should be. Always thinking about Fire, Water & Shelter. Using items as simple as a poncho for shelter, a sheet of aluminum foil to fashion a vessel to hold and boil water in and at least matches to start a fire are the basic necessities and can be folded up and carried in a small container or bag.
My wife use to carry a purse with a lot of the basic essentials in it. Now a victim of Alzheimer's she has down-sized the purse and emptied it to hold nothing but her wallet. At this point it is useless to us but if there were a threat to us and a little time to prepare, I could re-outfit the purse very quickly, to be another source of necessities, for her to carry.
Practiced & Written by J.Scott Keniston
The Survival Rule of 3's for Prepping
There is some saying that goes along with "Prepping" about the 3's...meaning you can survive 3 minutes without air, 3 hours without shelter, 3 days without water and 3 weeks without food. But there is also the thought that you should have 3 ways of backing yourself up for a situation. Like , starting a fire, you would have a lighter, matches and maybe a magnesium fire starter and striker. Or water containers...a canteen, metal cup and maybe a large sheet of aluminum foil that can be shaped into a vessel to carry and purify water. These are just a couple of examples of the 3 theory .
Your home could also be broken down into 3 sections for different types of emergencies. For example...
Airborne Contamination
You'd need to seal yourself off from the air outside your house. You could use your master bedroom as the family gathering point and have plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal the windows, doors, registers, cold air returns and exhaust vents in the master bath. Roll up a towel to place at the bottom of the door, if needed. You can also stockpile a small amount of water and food supplies in your nightstands, closet or under the bed. (maybe enough for a week or two) I recommend canned foods you would normally eat and packaged snacks like granola or energy bars, crackers, candy and beef jerky. Don't forget to keep a manual, hand cranked can opener with your supplies. Because you're in the master bedroom/bath area, you probably already have a medicine cabinet that could be better equipped for first-aid. You also have a sink with fresh tap water...use it and save your bottled water supplies until absolutely necessary. You also have a toilet for sanitation but if you also have a tub, fill it with water and have a bucket handy to use to flush it, just in case ! And since you and your other family members are all in the same room together for an undetermined length of time, you may want to think about having some books, decks of cards and or board games to occupy your time.
Tornado or Severe Weather
If your home has a basement, it can be used for emergency shelter in case of a tornado. Again, you can probably find space to store bottled water and food supplies. Some basements have at least a half bath with a toilet and sink. This can be a good thing for sanitation reasons and also provide clean water (allowing you to save your bottled water supplies until needed). You might have a stationary tub as well. This can be filled up with water, like the tub and by using a bucket, help in flushing the toilet, if necessary. Have a whistle, radio, flashlight, spare batteries and perhaps some candles, matches and or a lighter, in with your supplies and don't forget a manual, hand cranked, can opener to open cans of food. You might be without power so your electric can opener that was on the kitchen counter isn't going to work or even be there for that matter, if your home was damaged by the tornado. I would also include a large tarp, 100 feet of rope and at least 4 tent stakes to your supplies in the basement. The tarp can be set up and used like a tent covering in case there is rain and your house leaks. A sledge hammer, crowbar, hammer, nails and duct tape would also be a good thing to have around, if you need it.
Power Outages
If you experience a power outage for any length of time during winter months, you might want to select a part of the house to congregate in, sealed off from the rest of the house to contain as much warmth as possible. If your home has a fireplace in the living room or family room, you might want to plan on sealing off that portion of the house by closing doors or putting up plastic sheeting to keep what heat you get from the fireplace, in that room. Have a plan prepared for sleeping arrangements. Don't sleep on the floor, try to at least sleep on a couch or drag a mattress or two down from the bedrooms and put on the floor with plenty of extra blankets and or sleeping bags to keep warm. Keep your doors and windows closed as much as possible and always keep a screen over the fireplace so sparks don't pop out and onto you or your blankets. Because it's only a power outage, you can still use your food supplies in the kitchen and maybe cook them outside on the gas grill or actually over the open flame in the fireplace. You can also use Mother Nature's refrigerator to keep food from spoiling by keeping it in a cooler, outside, during winter months, but take preventive measures to guard against critters getting into to it.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Your home could also be broken down into 3 sections for different types of emergencies. For example...
Airborne Contamination
You'd need to seal yourself off from the air outside your house. You could use your master bedroom as the family gathering point and have plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal the windows, doors, registers, cold air returns and exhaust vents in the master bath. Roll up a towel to place at the bottom of the door, if needed. You can also stockpile a small amount of water and food supplies in your nightstands, closet or under the bed. (maybe enough for a week or two) I recommend canned foods you would normally eat and packaged snacks like granola or energy bars, crackers, candy and beef jerky. Don't forget to keep a manual, hand cranked can opener with your supplies. Because you're in the master bedroom/bath area, you probably already have a medicine cabinet that could be better equipped for first-aid. You also have a sink with fresh tap water...use it and save your bottled water supplies until absolutely necessary. You also have a toilet for sanitation but if you also have a tub, fill it with water and have a bucket handy to use to flush it, just in case ! And since you and your other family members are all in the same room together for an undetermined length of time, you may want to think about having some books, decks of cards and or board games to occupy your time.
Tornado or Severe Weather
If your home has a basement, it can be used for emergency shelter in case of a tornado. Again, you can probably find space to store bottled water and food supplies. Some basements have at least a half bath with a toilet and sink. This can be a good thing for sanitation reasons and also provide clean water (allowing you to save your bottled water supplies until needed). You might have a stationary tub as well. This can be filled up with water, like the tub and by using a bucket, help in flushing the toilet, if necessary. Have a whistle, radio, flashlight, spare batteries and perhaps some candles, matches and or a lighter, in with your supplies and don't forget a manual, hand cranked, can opener to open cans of food. You might be without power so your electric can opener that was on the kitchen counter isn't going to work or even be there for that matter, if your home was damaged by the tornado. I would also include a large tarp, 100 feet of rope and at least 4 tent stakes to your supplies in the basement. The tarp can be set up and used like a tent covering in case there is rain and your house leaks. A sledge hammer, crowbar, hammer, nails and duct tape would also be a good thing to have around, if you need it.
Power Outages
If you experience a power outage for any length of time during winter months, you might want to select a part of the house to congregate in, sealed off from the rest of the house to contain as much warmth as possible. If your home has a fireplace in the living room or family room, you might want to plan on sealing off that portion of the house by closing doors or putting up plastic sheeting to keep what heat you get from the fireplace, in that room. Have a plan prepared for sleeping arrangements. Don't sleep on the floor, try to at least sleep on a couch or drag a mattress or two down from the bedrooms and put on the floor with plenty of extra blankets and or sleeping bags to keep warm. Keep your doors and windows closed as much as possible and always keep a screen over the fireplace so sparks don't pop out and onto you or your blankets. Because it's only a power outage, you can still use your food supplies in the kitchen and maybe cook them outside on the gas grill or actually over the open flame in the fireplace. You can also use Mother Nature's refrigerator to keep food from spoiling by keeping it in a cooler, outside, during winter months, but take preventive measures to guard against critters getting into to it.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Getting Onboard !
I guess I've always been some-what of a "Prepper". That's the term used these days for someone that prepares for an emergency.
It started with me at a very early age, I had to be a little more cautious and prepared than my friends. It turns out, I'm allergic to bee and wasp stings and had to be able to access my life saving medicine, within 30 minutes of being stung.
A little later in life, when I was seven years old, my Dad gave me a Barlow, Pocket Knife for Christmas and taught me how to use it and told me it was a tool, not a weapon. He told me he carried his knife in his pocket everyday, everywhere. From that day on, I was just like my Dad and carried my knife, everywhere, everyday. These days, they call this an EDC for Every Day Carry.
Not long after that Christmas, I got into scouting. Their moto is, " Be Prepared". This was just the thing for me. Plus, I picked up a Scouting Pocket Knife, with the can and bottle opener, screw driver, awl and a two and a half inch long knife blade. This was like the early version of a Swiss Army Knife ! All this and the fact that my family was getting into camping... I was learning all kinds of stuff and putting some of it to practical use, when we camped and even when we played outside, at home !
As time went on, for birthdays and Christmas's I received things like a fiberglass, re-curved bow and arrows, BB guns (pistol & rifle) and additional knives. By the time I was a freshman in high school, I had retired the BB guns and moved up to a 22 caliber rifle and started some serious target shooting.
By my junior year in high school, I bought a motorcycle and modified my tool kit to be able to hold my stuff for bee stings, a few band-aids and some cotton balls. My friends thought I was crazy, but it was something I had to do. We would take overnight trips on our motorcycles, with sleeping bags strapped to the fender and a small cooler strapped to the bag and primitive camp out in Indiana. In case of bad weather, we also carried a clear plastic sheet of plastic, that was rolled into one of our sleeping bags, to use as a tarp over our bikes, in case it rained. We built our campfires and cooked our meals over the open flame. These were all great learning experiences for camping and self-reliance.
Then in the Spring of 74, the "Great Tornado", that came up the backside of Bridgetown, Ohio happened and it was my Mother who called my Dad and me to come into the basement for safety. She hastily grabbed a flashlight, some batteries, and a radio to prepare us for whatever happened next ! At the time, we thought she was crazy and stayed out in the front yard, watching as the tornado looked like it was going past the Oak Hills High School, before lifting off the ground, over by the water tower. Her emergency supplies weren't needed that day but Mom had the right idea !
Then I joined the Navy and thus began a new chapter of being prepared. A lot was learned in basic training and more was learned while stationed in New Orleans and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba when we had to prepared 72 hours in advance for hurricanes and tropical depressions at both Naval Stations. That was some good practical experience. Plus, I saw first hand how the Navy stockpiled supplies in what they called the Hurricane Locker ! That was an eye opener!
In 1976, Fidel Castro began grumbling about wanting the base at Guantanamo Bay back from the U.S. Cuban troops and tanks began moving all along the fence-line, very menacingly. We were briefed and told that we only had to hold out for maybe 10 or 15 minutes before air support could be scrambled for a counter attack against the aggressing communist forces. We all had our packs, readied with what we thought we might need and a plan that included a secure hideout as our rally point, if we had to hide out, until the counter strike came. Well, as we all know, the base at Guantanamo Bay is still there, but the experience is still fresh in my mind. In todays media, our packs would be called Bug Out Bags or BOB's.
After I got out of the Navy, in the spring of 78, I bought a brand new pickup truck and had a fiberglass cap put on it. Hey, this was right after the BLIZZARD of 1977 and everybody was getting better prepared after that ! With the help of my friends, we made a false floor in the bed of the truck and created storage boxes over the wheel-wells. I had enough supplies and clothing packed in the back of that truck to hold out for more than a week or so, if needed. With storage for long items like fishing rods, rifle and shotgun under the floor and the smaller compartments used for clothing, ammo, toiletries and other camping supplies in the storage boxes over the wheel wells, everything was tucked away nicely, leaving enough room for two adults to sleep comfortably on the eight foot long bed, complete with sleeping bags and pillows. Today, they would call this a Bug Out Vehicle or BOV.
These days there are many different thoughts on "The End of the World", as we know it ! Some fear terrorists threats and attacks, others think the countries monetary system will fail, riots will break out and martial law will be imposed, while others fear a pandemic, earthquakes, solar flares and tidal waves that could take down our power grids, leaving us all in the dark, without heat or air conditioning or God forbid... the internet, cell phones and even the use of our cars!
Everybody has their own thoughts on this, but what about a good old fashioned ice storm ? Something in the middle of winter that could take down the power grid for an entire region ? What would you do then ? Do you have a plan ? Have you ever thought about this ? The only good thing about this happening in the middle of winter is, you sort of have a built-in freezer, just outside your door. Or if there is snow on the ground, you could use it to pack in your cooler. But really... have you ever given this any thought ? How would you and your family stay warm without electric heat ? What about in the heat of the summer ? No air conditioning !!! OMG !!!
We faired pretty well after the 80mph winds from Hurricane Ike, came thru Landen, back in September of 2008 and knocked out our power for a few days. That was easy ! That was in late summer, almost fall, when the temperatures outside were still comfortable, without the threat of rain, and all you really had to worry about was food perishing in your refrigerator and freezer and not being able to take a hot shower ! Luckily the entire region or city wasn't totally affected by these winds and we could drive out to get ice for the coolers, gas for the car and fast food to feed ourselves. We just stuck around the house and cooked our food over the fire pit or the gas grill and made the best of a bad situation. It was kind of fun and we were fine !
Some years ago, Joyce, began thinking about some of these different scenarios and thought it would be a good idea if we prepared ourselves a little bit better. She asked me if I would get onboard with this idea ? I smiled and told her, I was always prepared, and was glad she was ready to take a more active role with our preparedness ! I don't consider us extremists but we're a little better prepared than we were before and have learned a lot of new things from TV shows, YouTube videos, blogs and websites, concerning preparedness and self reliance tips.
We keep hearing commercials on radio and TV from the American Red Cross, FEMA and the CDC, advising everyone to be better prepared. It just makes me wonder, is something coming ? What do they know, that we don't ? You never know, do you ? But if you're better prepared, you can handle it better.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
It started with me at a very early age, I had to be a little more cautious and prepared than my friends. It turns out, I'm allergic to bee and wasp stings and had to be able to access my life saving medicine, within 30 minutes of being stung.
A little later in life, when I was seven years old, my Dad gave me a Barlow, Pocket Knife for Christmas and taught me how to use it and told me it was a tool, not a weapon. He told me he carried his knife in his pocket everyday, everywhere. From that day on, I was just like my Dad and carried my knife, everywhere, everyday. These days, they call this an EDC for Every Day Carry.
Not long after that Christmas, I got into scouting. Their moto is, " Be Prepared". This was just the thing for me. Plus, I picked up a Scouting Pocket Knife, with the can and bottle opener, screw driver, awl and a two and a half inch long knife blade. This was like the early version of a Swiss Army Knife ! All this and the fact that my family was getting into camping... I was learning all kinds of stuff and putting some of it to practical use, when we camped and even when we played outside, at home !
As time went on, for birthdays and Christmas's I received things like a fiberglass, re-curved bow and arrows, BB guns (pistol & rifle) and additional knives. By the time I was a freshman in high school, I had retired the BB guns and moved up to a 22 caliber rifle and started some serious target shooting.
By my junior year in high school, I bought a motorcycle and modified my tool kit to be able to hold my stuff for bee stings, a few band-aids and some cotton balls. My friends thought I was crazy, but it was something I had to do. We would take overnight trips on our motorcycles, with sleeping bags strapped to the fender and a small cooler strapped to the bag and primitive camp out in Indiana. In case of bad weather, we also carried a clear plastic sheet of plastic, that was rolled into one of our sleeping bags, to use as a tarp over our bikes, in case it rained. We built our campfires and cooked our meals over the open flame. These were all great learning experiences for camping and self-reliance.
Then in the Spring of 74, the "Great Tornado", that came up the backside of Bridgetown, Ohio happened and it was my Mother who called my Dad and me to come into the basement for safety. She hastily grabbed a flashlight, some batteries, and a radio to prepare us for whatever happened next ! At the time, we thought she was crazy and stayed out in the front yard, watching as the tornado looked like it was going past the Oak Hills High School, before lifting off the ground, over by the water tower. Her emergency supplies weren't needed that day but Mom had the right idea !
Then I joined the Navy and thus began a new chapter of being prepared. A lot was learned in basic training and more was learned while stationed in New Orleans and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba when we had to prepared 72 hours in advance for hurricanes and tropical depressions at both Naval Stations. That was some good practical experience. Plus, I saw first hand how the Navy stockpiled supplies in what they called the Hurricane Locker ! That was an eye opener!
In 1976, Fidel Castro began grumbling about wanting the base at Guantanamo Bay back from the U.S. Cuban troops and tanks began moving all along the fence-line, very menacingly. We were briefed and told that we only had to hold out for maybe 10 or 15 minutes before air support could be scrambled for a counter attack against the aggressing communist forces. We all had our packs, readied with what we thought we might need and a plan that included a secure hideout as our rally point, if we had to hide out, until the counter strike came. Well, as we all know, the base at Guantanamo Bay is still there, but the experience is still fresh in my mind. In todays media, our packs would be called Bug Out Bags or BOB's.
After I got out of the Navy, in the spring of 78, I bought a brand new pickup truck and had a fiberglass cap put on it. Hey, this was right after the BLIZZARD of 1977 and everybody was getting better prepared after that ! With the help of my friends, we made a false floor in the bed of the truck and created storage boxes over the wheel-wells. I had enough supplies and clothing packed in the back of that truck to hold out for more than a week or so, if needed. With storage for long items like fishing rods, rifle and shotgun under the floor and the smaller compartments used for clothing, ammo, toiletries and other camping supplies in the storage boxes over the wheel wells, everything was tucked away nicely, leaving enough room for two adults to sleep comfortably on the eight foot long bed, complete with sleeping bags and pillows. Today, they would call this a Bug Out Vehicle or BOV.
These days there are many different thoughts on "The End of the World", as we know it ! Some fear terrorists threats and attacks, others think the countries monetary system will fail, riots will break out and martial law will be imposed, while others fear a pandemic, earthquakes, solar flares and tidal waves that could take down our power grids, leaving us all in the dark, without heat or air conditioning or God forbid... the internet, cell phones and even the use of our cars!
Everybody has their own thoughts on this, but what about a good old fashioned ice storm ? Something in the middle of winter that could take down the power grid for an entire region ? What would you do then ? Do you have a plan ? Have you ever thought about this ? The only good thing about this happening in the middle of winter is, you sort of have a built-in freezer, just outside your door. Or if there is snow on the ground, you could use it to pack in your cooler. But really... have you ever given this any thought ? How would you and your family stay warm without electric heat ? What about in the heat of the summer ? No air conditioning !!! OMG !!!
We faired pretty well after the 80mph winds from Hurricane Ike, came thru Landen, back in September of 2008 and knocked out our power for a few days. That was easy ! That was in late summer, almost fall, when the temperatures outside were still comfortable, without the threat of rain, and all you really had to worry about was food perishing in your refrigerator and freezer and not being able to take a hot shower ! Luckily the entire region or city wasn't totally affected by these winds and we could drive out to get ice for the coolers, gas for the car and fast food to feed ourselves. We just stuck around the house and cooked our food over the fire pit or the gas grill and made the best of a bad situation. It was kind of fun and we were fine !
Some years ago, Joyce, began thinking about some of these different scenarios and thought it would be a good idea if we prepared ourselves a little bit better. She asked me if I would get onboard with this idea ? I smiled and told her, I was always prepared, and was glad she was ready to take a more active role with our preparedness ! I don't consider us extremists but we're a little better prepared than we were before and have learned a lot of new things from TV shows, YouTube videos, blogs and websites, concerning preparedness and self reliance tips.
We keep hearing commercials on radio and TV from the American Red Cross, FEMA and the CDC, advising everyone to be better prepared. It just makes me wonder, is something coming ? What do they know, that we don't ? You never know, do you ? But if you're better prepared, you can handle it better.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
A Few Little Items Like This In Your Car, Can Be A Great Help & Comfort
Personally, I would keep the gloves, poncho, flashlight, multi-tool, whistle with water-proof matches and maybe the emergency blanket in your glove compartment in your Car, SUV or Truck. They won't take up all the space but will be handy when needed. The tire jack should already have a storage location in your vehicle. Know how to get it out and use it. The other items like the Granola Bars, water, quart of oil, first-aid kit, compressor, tire plugs, jumper cables and tow strap could be put in a Rubber-Maid tub with lid and kept in the trunk or back of your vehicle. An entrenching tool and pedestal candle can be added during the winter months.
What kind of a disaster are you prepared for ?
Are you prepared to change a flat tire on your vehicle ? I know, I know...you have AAA or some other roadside service to come to your aid, but what if... they couldn't make it ? Is your spare tire inflated properly ? Do you know how to get it out of your car or out from underneath it ? Is the jack cleaned, lubed and working properly ? Do you know how to use the jack ? Are you physically strong enough to jack your car up and break loose the lugs nuts to change the tire ?
These are all important questions that you may not know the answer to. You may just want to try out these skills in your own garage or driveway ? Try taking your spare out and seeing if it is properly inflated. If you need to use a tire tool to lower the winch-like mechanism to get your spare out, make sure you know how that works and shoot some WD-40 on it to make it work more smoothly. If you're not strong enough to jack up your car or break the lug nuts loose, maybe you need to use a cheater to make a better lever to help in these tasks.
A cheater is a longer piece of steel pipe that you slip over your tire tool to give you better leverage. I know I'm not the greatest about checking my stuff out but I try to check my spare tire at least once a year and clean everything up and lube it for smoother action, whenever I may have to use it. Personally, I do not like the jack that came with my van and I purchased a better hydraulic jack to use if I have an emergency and need to change my tire. I also bought an inexpensive compressor that plugs into my cigarette lighter to fill a flat or low tire. One other thing I carry with me are tire plugs, to use if I run over a nail or something that punctures the tread of my tire, I have tools to help me remove the object from my tire and the plugs to insert to fill the hole and my compressor to fill the tire back to a proper level. Over the years I have plugged several of my own tires and helped friends fix theirs. You never know what kind of a disaster may happen, you just have to ask yourself...are you prepared for it ? Then take the necessary steps to be more prepared. Having a Survival Kit in the back of your car would sure come in handy in a case like this, if the weather wasn't exactly ideal for tire changing. Wouldn't it be nice if you had a poncho, if it were raining, or gloves to keep your hands clean or warm or even something warm to put on if it were colder outside, while you changed the tire ? It's all part of being prepared.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
These are all important questions that you may not know the answer to. You may just want to try out these skills in your own garage or driveway ? Try taking your spare out and seeing if it is properly inflated. If you need to use a tire tool to lower the winch-like mechanism to get your spare out, make sure you know how that works and shoot some WD-40 on it to make it work more smoothly. If you're not strong enough to jack up your car or break the lug nuts loose, maybe you need to use a cheater to make a better lever to help in these tasks.
A cheater is a longer piece of steel pipe that you slip over your tire tool to give you better leverage. I know I'm not the greatest about checking my stuff out but I try to check my spare tire at least once a year and clean everything up and lube it for smoother action, whenever I may have to use it. Personally, I do not like the jack that came with my van and I purchased a better hydraulic jack to use if I have an emergency and need to change my tire. I also bought an inexpensive compressor that plugs into my cigarette lighter to fill a flat or low tire. One other thing I carry with me are tire plugs, to use if I run over a nail or something that punctures the tread of my tire, I have tools to help me remove the object from my tire and the plugs to insert to fill the hole and my compressor to fill the tire back to a proper level. Over the years I have plugged several of my own tires and helped friends fix theirs. You never know what kind of a disaster may happen, you just have to ask yourself...are you prepared for it ? Then take the necessary steps to be more prepared. Having a Survival Kit in the back of your car would sure come in handy in a case like this, if the weather wasn't exactly ideal for tire changing. Wouldn't it be nice if you had a poncho, if it were raining, or gloves to keep your hands clean or warm or even something warm to put on if it were colder outside, while you changed the tire ? It's all part of being prepared.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Is your vehicle ready when you need it?
How old is your car ? If it's newer, you probably don't worry much about it. Not concerned with the belts, hoses or different fluid levels and filters...it's all covered under your maintenance plan and warranty. But is that really an excuse not to get in better touch with your car ?
If you're not Motor-Head Savy, take out your Owners Manual, pop the hood and look up the different components of your engine. Find out where your dip sticks are for the engine oil and transmission fluid. See where your master cylinder is for your brakes. When the engine is cool, open your radiator cap and look inside to see the level of coolant. Fill your windshield washer reservoir, replace your own windshield wipers, buy a tire gauge and periodically check your air pressure in your tires, and make sure they are at the recommended amount, especially when the season's change. (most tires take 32 pounds of air) Look at the terminal posts on your battery and make sure they're clean. Wipe off your battery and find out where your air filter is and what type replacement filter it takes.
Now if you want to become a little more advanced, you could buy a floor jack, some jack-stands and an oil pan and get under your vehicle and change your own oil and filter. You'll also need a 3/4 inch wrench to take the drain-plug out of the oil pan, so you can drain the oil. You can pour your old oil out of the drain pan and into an empty oil jug and take your old oil to Wal-Mart for recycling.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
If you're not Motor-Head Savy, take out your Owners Manual, pop the hood and look up the different components of your engine. Find out where your dip sticks are for the engine oil and transmission fluid. See where your master cylinder is for your brakes. When the engine is cool, open your radiator cap and look inside to see the level of coolant. Fill your windshield washer reservoir, replace your own windshield wipers, buy a tire gauge and periodically check your air pressure in your tires, and make sure they are at the recommended amount, especially when the season's change. (most tires take 32 pounds of air) Look at the terminal posts on your battery and make sure they're clean. Wipe off your battery and find out where your air filter is and what type replacement filter it takes.
Now if you want to become a little more advanced, you could buy a floor jack, some jack-stands and an oil pan and get under your vehicle and change your own oil and filter. You'll also need a 3/4 inch wrench to take the drain-plug out of the oil pan, so you can drain the oil. You can pour your old oil out of the drain pan and into an empty oil jug and take your old oil to Wal-Mart for recycling.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Protecting yourself against Carjackings
Carjacking or robbery protection tips
Everyone should take 5 minutes to read this. It may save your life or a loved one's life. In daylight hours, refresh yourself of these things ...to do in an emergency situation... This is for you, and for you to share with your wife, your children, & everyone you know. After reading these 9 crucial tips, forward them to someone you care about. It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.
1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do :The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do so!
2. Learned this from a tourist guide. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you... Chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you, and he will go for the wallet/purse. THEN RUN LIKE HELL IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!
3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy.. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.
4. Women have a tendency to get into their car and just sit there, (checking or sending texts, listening to voicemail, making phone calls, applying makeup ect) maybe with the engine running. DON'T DO THIS! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your HEAD and tell you where to go.
AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE..
If someone is in the car with a gun to your head
DO NOT DRIVE OFF....... Repeat: DO NOT DRIVE OFF!!!!
Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car. Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it.
As soon as the car crashes......BAIL OUT AND RUN!!!! It is better than having them find your body in a remote location.
5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:
A.) BE AWARE... look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor and in the back seat.
B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door.
Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.
C.) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side.. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.
IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)
6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot.
This is especially true at NIGHT!)
7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; and even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN!!!! Preferably in a zig -zag pattern!
8. Women, we are usually sympathetic. It may get you raped or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next VICTIM).
9. Another Safety Point: Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last and because it was late and she thought it was weird..She called the police. The police told her 'Whatever you do, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR!
The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a windrow and she was worried that it would crawl to the street and get run over. The policeman said, 'We already have a unit on the way, whatever you do, do not open the door.' He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded and uses it to coax women out of their homes thinking that someone dropped off a baby.. He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls by women saying that they hear baby's cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.
10. Water scam! If you wake up in the middle of the night to hear all your taps outside running or what you think is a burst pipe...DO NOT GO OUT TO INVESTIGATE! These people turn on all your outside taps full blast so that you will go out to investigate and then attack. Stay alert, keep safe, and look out for your neighbors!
1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do :The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do so!
2. Learned this from a tourist guide. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you... Chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you, and he will go for the wallet/purse. THEN RUN LIKE HELL IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!
3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy.. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.
4. Women have a tendency to get into their car and just sit there, (checking or sending texts, listening to voicemail, making phone calls, applying makeup ect) maybe with the engine running. DON'T DO THIS! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your HEAD and tell you where to go.
AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE..
If someone is in the car with a gun to your head
DO NOT DRIVE OFF....... Repeat: DO NOT DRIVE OFF!!!!
Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car. Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it.
As soon as the car crashes......BAIL OUT AND RUN!!!! It is better than having them find your body in a remote location.
5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:
A.) BE AWARE... look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor and in the back seat.
B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door.
Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.
C.) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side.. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.
IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)
6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot.
This is especially true at NIGHT!)
7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; and even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN!!!! Preferably in a zig -zag pattern!
8. Women, we are usually sympathetic. It may get you raped or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next VICTIM).
9. Another Safety Point: Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last and because it was late and she thought it was weird..She called the police. The police told her 'Whatever you do, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR!
The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a windrow and she was worried that it would crawl to the street and get run over. The policeman said, 'We already have a unit on the way, whatever you do, do not open the door.' He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded and uses it to coax women out of their homes thinking that someone dropped off a baby.. He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls by women saying that they hear baby's cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.
10. Water scam! If you wake up in the middle of the night to hear all your taps outside running or what you think is a burst pipe...DO NOT GO OUT TO INVESTIGATE! These people turn on all your outside taps full blast so that you will go out to investigate and then attack. Stay alert, keep safe, and look out for your neighbors!
A Preparedness Plan
Water Storage Suggestions
Are you prepared for any kind of an emergency around your home, affecting you and your loved ones?
Water, warmth and shelter are most important. If your home or part of your home is intact after something like a tornado, this is good. Blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing would be good too.
Now for water. You don't need to go out and buy a ton of store bought, bottled water. You can easily take an empty water or pop bottle of any size, (we use 2 liter bottles) rinsed out and refilled with fresh tap water, screw the cap on tightly. This is the start of a basic plan. Store as much water as you can. The American Red Cross and FEMA say you should plan on having a gallon of water per person, per day. This is not only for your own personal hydration but cooking and sanitary purposes as well.
(Never re-use milk or juice bottles, only water or pop bottles)
Maybe a bag of spare clothes in the trunk of the car and possibly a spare 5 gallon can for gasoline (stored in a cool dry place). These are all steps in the right direction. What about a couple candles and matches and or lighter ? Do you have any of this stuff already around your house or apartment ? If so get them organized so you have them in one location when you need them.
From here you can add to the plan. Build a small supply of non-perishable foods that can be eaten without needing to be heated or cooked and store them in a cool dark place for long-term storage. Make sure you buy food that you will eat. It makes no sense to buy foods that you or your family don't like and will not eat. Having an escape plan and rally point for your family, in the case of fire, is a good idea. If you live in an area where tornadoes are possible, having a plan and a rally point for family members and a place to shelter with your food and water supplies in this type of an emergency, is a good idea and doesn't cost a lot of money. So... why aren't you prepared ? What's the plan ? Visit the Being Prepared section of this site for ideas to help you with your plans.
Water, warmth and shelter are most important. If your home or part of your home is intact after something like a tornado, this is good. Blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing would be good too.
Now for water. You don't need to go out and buy a ton of store bought, bottled water. You can easily take an empty water or pop bottle of any size, (we use 2 liter bottles) rinsed out and refilled with fresh tap water, screw the cap on tightly. This is the start of a basic plan. Store as much water as you can. The American Red Cross and FEMA say you should plan on having a gallon of water per person, per day. This is not only for your own personal hydration but cooking and sanitary purposes as well.
(Never re-use milk or juice bottles, only water or pop bottles)
Maybe a bag of spare clothes in the trunk of the car and possibly a spare 5 gallon can for gasoline (stored in a cool dry place). These are all steps in the right direction. What about a couple candles and matches and or lighter ? Do you have any of this stuff already around your house or apartment ? If so get them organized so you have them in one location when you need them.
From here you can add to the plan. Build a small supply of non-perishable foods that can be eaten without needing to be heated or cooked and store them in a cool dark place for long-term storage. Make sure you buy food that you will eat. It makes no sense to buy foods that you or your family don't like and will not eat. Having an escape plan and rally point for your family, in the case of fire, is a good idea. If you live in an area where tornadoes are possible, having a plan and a rally point for family members and a place to shelter with your food and water supplies in this type of an emergency, is a good idea and doesn't cost a lot of money. So... why aren't you prepared ? What's the plan ? Visit the Being Prepared section of this site for ideas to help you with your plans.
Remember to Rotate your Food Supplies
An example of Emergency Food Supplies
If you are building an Emergency Food Supply Cach'e, try to remember to buy food that you and your family will eat and rotate it into your normal food supplies maybe annually. You want canned and dry goods in your supplies.
Pictured to the left is a very good example of some types of canned goods and dry goods. Personally, I would put things like sugar, rice, beans, pasta and oatmeal into plastic containers to keep as much moisture away from them as possible.
Be sure to include a manual can opener, a small to medium cook pot and maybe a backpacking gas stove in with your supplies and extra fuel for the stove.
This winter, if we should experience an ice storm that would take out our power, remember you can store food outside in a cooler with our freezing temps and you can use your gas grill to cook on. We've even cooked frozen pizza on the grill before, closing the lid and keeping the temperature at 400 degrees.
Just don't bring the grill into the house to try and use its heat.
Pictured to the left is a very good example of some types of canned goods and dry goods. Personally, I would put things like sugar, rice, beans, pasta and oatmeal into plastic containers to keep as much moisture away from them as possible.
Be sure to include a manual can opener, a small to medium cook pot and maybe a backpacking gas stove in with your supplies and extra fuel for the stove.
This winter, if we should experience an ice storm that would take out our power, remember you can store food outside in a cooler with our freezing temps and you can use your gas grill to cook on. We've even cooked frozen pizza on the grill before, closing the lid and keeping the temperature at 400 degrees.
Just don't bring the grill into the house to try and use its heat.
A Women's Purse as a Survival Kit ?
Basic Purse
Pictured here is what I would call a sensible but practical purse. It's leather, it has at least 4 maybe 6 outer pouches, a large capacity bag and heavy duty hardware making up the handle of the bag itself.
Now lets look at what is usually carried in a purse/handbag.
I did my own independent study on what a lot of women carry in their purses. First and foremost, there is the wallet...always much larger than a mans wallet, filled with credit cards, cash and change. Joyce tells me women use to carry lots of photos of spouses, kids & grandchildren in their wallets, in the olden
days, but these days that is all on the cell phone...or as they say, there's an App for that ! Next would be a key ring, makeup, lipstick(s)hair brush, mirror, small, pen-lite flashlight, maybe a lighter or book of matches, a packet of tissues, pen or pencil, small note pad, lotions, moisturizers and don't forget the cell phone.
Joyce has a lot of these same things in her purse plus a few more things. On her key ring. She has a small Swiss Army Knife with a small but sharp cutting blade, tweezers, scissors, tooth pick, and fingernail file. Along with this she has a small, but very loud barrel whistle for signaling and a thermometer fob with a built-in compass. These items on her key ring plus what she carries
in the purse as her EDC (Every Day Carry)is a pretty nice start for a Survival Kit when you think about it.
There is the ability to make fire with matches or lighter and the use of note pad paper or tissue paper as fire starter and the wooden pencil can be crushed with your foot or whittled down with the knife blade and used as kindling to keep the fire going until more wood is added.
The fire can be used for signaling, warmth and even insect and pest repellent if stranded in a remote location. The whistle, mirror and flashlight can also be used for signaling for help. The sound of a whistle carries further than you screaming for HELP ! Don't forget the cell phone ! But what if the battery is low...always try to keep a charger in your car or purse...but what if there is no signal ? Then you can rely on your other, previously mentioned signaling devices.
I saw a YouTube video on how to make a compact Survival Kit in an Altoids Tin that is small enough to keep in a purse or glove compartment of your
car. So, I made a couple for us to have in our cars. Some of the items are duplicated from what is already in the purse but I think in this case, it's okay. Better to have a little more, if needed, than not enough.
The kit includes a couple of carpet knife blades taped to the lid of the tin, water-proof matches and striker, a mini BIC lighter, 15 feet of nylon string, some ordinary birthday candles, a folded up zip-lock plastic bag (to carry water) a 12 inch square of tin foil (to fashion into a pot to boil your water for purification), a folded up paper towel (to use as dressing for a wound), 3 feet of duck tape rolled around a section of drinking straw (to use for first-aid and holding the dressing to the wound), I added a length of fishing line, some sinkers and hooks and a slim-line knife to the kits (in case you needed to catch fish to survive and clean them). A kit this size can easily be carried in a purse.
Three more things I would add to the purse would be packaged space blanket (that can either be used for warmth or shelter), a packaged poncho with hood, (that can be used to keep the weather off you or as shelter or ground cloth) and some sort of better pocket knife. I'm kind of fond of the OTF (Out The Front) type blades that only requires one hand to open and use but any kind of pocket knife will do. These last three items can be easily found in the camping section of our local retailers and can be obtained rather inexpensively for your kit. Don't confuse this with your emergency gear bag
that you already have packed in the trunk of your car, but it does make a great companion piece to it and may provide better peace of mind if your
world is suddenly turned upside down. If you have any other ideas, drop me a line and let me know.
Here is a link to the YouTube video on how to make the Altoids Tin Survival Kit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYl8lh_5EZY
Written by J.Scott Keniston
EDC Bag or Man Purse
EDC Shoulder Bag
If you are building an Every Day Carry (EDC) Bag, here are a few Ideas of what all you might keep in it.
1. Wallet with cash, credit card, a credit card size folding knife
credit card size 12 function survival tool & an optic fire
starter (magnifying glass)
2. Cell Phone with charger, note pad & pen
3. An assortment of folding & fixed blade knives, & 8 function
multi-tool
4. Poncho, gloves, Emergency Blanket, para-cord & whistle
(3 blasts on a whistle means you're in trouble)
5. Water-proof matches, disposable lighter & Wet-Fire
6. First-Aid Kit with band-aids, gauze bandages, tweezers,
fingernail file, eye glasses repair & un-lubed condom (for
water carrying) alcohol wipes, Chap-Stik, dental floss,
headband, duct tape, folding scissors, water purification tablets & tooth-picks
7. A couple small flashlights, a large piece of heavy duty
Aluminum Foil (for water carrying) & a bundle of rope
8. There is a concealment pocket for a handgun and ammo
if you need it
If anything forces you from your car and this bag is beside you and it's the only thing you're able to grab, you at least have the basics to survive. The poncho or emergency blanket can make shelter, ground cover or wear to keep you dry. You have means to make a fire and stay warm and ways to gather and purify water for drinking. You also have a small first-aid kit for minor cuts and knives for all purposes including protection.
1. Wallet with cash, credit card, a credit card size folding knife
credit card size 12 function survival tool & an optic fire
starter (magnifying glass)
2. Cell Phone with charger, note pad & pen
3. An assortment of folding & fixed blade knives, & 8 function
multi-tool
4. Poncho, gloves, Emergency Blanket, para-cord & whistle
(3 blasts on a whistle means you're in trouble)
5. Water-proof matches, disposable lighter & Wet-Fire
6. First-Aid Kit with band-aids, gauze bandages, tweezers,
fingernail file, eye glasses repair & un-lubed condom (for
water carrying) alcohol wipes, Chap-Stik, dental floss,
headband, duct tape, folding scissors, water purification tablets & tooth-picks
7. A couple small flashlights, a large piece of heavy duty
Aluminum Foil (for water carrying) & a bundle of rope
8. There is a concealment pocket for a handgun and ammo
if you need it
If anything forces you from your car and this bag is beside you and it's the only thing you're able to grab, you at least have the basics to survive. The poncho or emergency blanket can make shelter, ground cover or wear to keep you dry. You have means to make a fire and stay warm and ways to gather and purify water for drinking. You also have a small first-aid kit for minor cuts and knives for all purposes including protection.
SURVIVAL KIT for your car
Survival Bag
Whatever you want to call it, the EMERGENCY SURVIVAL KIT, BUG OUT BAG, or GET HOME BAG, it may be just what you need to make a bad situation more bearable. An EMERGENCY Preparedness Bag could come in handy. You don't need a special backpack, maybe just an old book bag or a small suitcase, duffel bag, heavy duty garbage bag or stuff sack will do just fine. Just something to hold your stuff, keep it clean and dry and keep in the back of your car. Here are some items I would suggest having in your special BUG OUT BAG.
1. One set of warm clothing like sweat pants & sweat shirt
2. At least one change of underwear & cheap poncho
3. A couple pairs of socks, gloves & comfortable pair of shoes
4 One set of light clothing, like shorts, T shirt & ball cap
5. A small bag with soap, travel shampoo, deodorant,
toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss tweezers & razor
6. Flashlight, whistle, knife, rope, candle, lighter, matches
& multi-tool
7. Simple First-Aid Kit, bandana, paper towels & duct tape
8. Water bottle (filled), sheet of aluminum foil & steel cup
9. Water purification device & purification tablets
You can add as much as you want and get very creative but this is the very least, I think a person should have in the trunk of their car. You could keep a warm coat and pair of boots in addition to your bag, in the trunk. I'd put the coat, spare pair of shoes and boots in a heavy duty garbage bag and zip tie it shut to keep them clean and dry. I'd do the same thing with a blanket or sleeping bag,(or both) keeping the BUG OUT BAG for your clothes and supplies. If you had to sleep in your car, at least you could keep warm using the sleeping bag or blanket and candle for warmth. I'd keep a few Power or Granola Bars, chewing gum and a couple of bottles of water too...just in case ! Some people keep a little stash of CASH in their Bug Out Bags...just in case of an emergency !
You probably have a lot of stuff to create your own BUG OUT BAG, around the house. Other specialty items can be purchased inexpensively at places like Wal-Mart, Dollar Stores, DEALS & Harbor Freight. Don't get caught with your guard down !
.
Checkout this link on how to make a portable survival kit in an Altiods tin. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYl8lh_5EZY
Whatever you want to call it...this is what I carry
You may call it a Bug out Bag or a Get Home Bag or just that emergency pack in the back of your car, SUV, van or behind the seat of your truck but whatever you want to call it, this is what's in mine.
1. 50 feet of 550 paracord & other lengths of nylon rope
2. Waterproof matches, Wet Fire, lighters & magnesium fire starter
3. USMC KaBar sheath knife & a smaller sheath knife with 5 inch blade
4. 3 different types of flashlights
5. Military poncho
6. Web belt
7. 2 folding, lock-blade pocket knives & a Gerber Nautilus Knife w/sheath
8. 2 SOL Survival Blanket & 1 Ozark Trail Emergency Blanket
9. 3 Un-lubed condoms, a large sheet of heavy duty aluminum foil & a
stainless steel cup (for water gathering & boiling)
10. First-Aid Kit, lip balm, dental floss, toothbrush & paste, folding
scissors, nail clipper, disposable razor, lotion, oral-gel, krazy glue
bandana, dust mask, toilet paper, ear plugs & duck tape
11. 1 pair of sweat pants, sweat shirt, 3 pairs of socks & knit hat
12. 1 pair of shorts, tee-shirt, ball cap & swim suit
13. 4 hand warmers & 2 pairs of gloves
14. 2 water bottles (filled)
15. Mosquito netting (already purchased)
16. Tootsie Rolls, hard candies, mints & gum (maybe beef jerky later)
I keep a bag each of us in my vehicles. I also have spare shoes, warm coat, blankets, beach towels and other items you might expect me to have ...because the vehicle is never too far away from me. Then I have a smaller version of this bag. It's my EDC (Every Day Carry) bag.
1. 50 feet of 550 paracord & other lengths of nylon rope
2. Waterproof matches, Wet Fire, lighters & magnesium fire starter
3. USMC KaBar sheath knife & a smaller sheath knife with 5 inch blade
4. 3 different types of flashlights
5. Military poncho
6. Web belt
7. 2 folding, lock-blade pocket knives & a Gerber Nautilus Knife w/sheath
8. 2 SOL Survival Blanket & 1 Ozark Trail Emergency Blanket
9. 3 Un-lubed condoms, a large sheet of heavy duty aluminum foil & a
stainless steel cup (for water gathering & boiling)
10. First-Aid Kit, lip balm, dental floss, toothbrush & paste, folding
scissors, nail clipper, disposable razor, lotion, oral-gel, krazy glue
bandana, dust mask, toilet paper, ear plugs & duck tape
11. 1 pair of sweat pants, sweat shirt, 3 pairs of socks & knit hat
12. 1 pair of shorts, tee-shirt, ball cap & swim suit
13. 4 hand warmers & 2 pairs of gloves
14. 2 water bottles (filled)
15. Mosquito netting (already purchased)
16. Tootsie Rolls, hard candies, mints & gum (maybe beef jerky later)
I keep a bag each of us in my vehicles. I also have spare shoes, warm coat, blankets, beach towels and other items you might expect me to have ...because the vehicle is never too far away from me. Then I have a smaller version of this bag. It's my EDC (Every Day Carry) bag.
Airborne Contaminant Preparedness
An illustration of how to seal off a room
Joyce and I were looking over some of the supplies we have for different types of emergencies. The one we were checking out today was our Airborne Contaminant Preparedness Supplies. In the event we have any type of emergency like this we have chosen our master bedroom to be our rally point. We are prepared to seal off the room from the outside contaminants and hold out for a week or so, if need be. We have put together the following supplies to aid us in this situation.
1. Sheet Plastic for covering windows and vents
in the room.
2. Duct Tape to secure the sheet plastic over the
windows, vents and sealing around the door
frame.
3. A supply of dust masks for the two of us
4. A towel to roll and use at the bottom of the
door.
5. A supply of bottled water to use if our home
water supply becomes contaminated or cut off
6. A soft sided cooler filled with dry and canned food supplies, such as canned fruits, vegetables & tuna. Plus dry goods like packets of Lipton Noodle
Soup. A manual can opener, a portable stove, assorted knives, fork and spoon, matches, lighters and fire starter, 550 paracord, a stainless steel cup
and pot for cooking (if need be)
7. Because we are in the master bedroom, we have access to the master bath with toilet and water supply, our medicine cabinets are well stocked.
8. We have our bed, pillows and blankets for all seasons. We should and could keep a couple decks of cards, maybe some books and board games to break up the time spent in the room during this type of an emergency.
In the bottom of our nightstands we have a 2 liter bottle of white Minute Rice, applesauce, peanut butter, saltine crackers, salt, sandwich crackers and fuel for the portable stove in the kit.
1. Sheet Plastic for covering windows and vents
in the room.
2. Duct Tape to secure the sheet plastic over the
windows, vents and sealing around the door
frame.
3. A supply of dust masks for the two of us
4. A towel to roll and use at the bottom of the
door.
5. A supply of bottled water to use if our home
water supply becomes contaminated or cut off
6. A soft sided cooler filled with dry and canned food supplies, such as canned fruits, vegetables & tuna. Plus dry goods like packets of Lipton Noodle
Soup. A manual can opener, a portable stove, assorted knives, fork and spoon, matches, lighters and fire starter, 550 paracord, a stainless steel cup
and pot for cooking (if need be)
7. Because we are in the master bedroom, we have access to the master bath with toilet and water supply, our medicine cabinets are well stocked.
8. We have our bed, pillows and blankets for all seasons. We should and could keep a couple decks of cards, maybe some books and board games to break up the time spent in the room during this type of an emergency.
In the bottom of our nightstands we have a 2 liter bottle of white Minute Rice, applesauce, peanut butter, saltine crackers, salt, sandwich crackers and fuel for the portable stove in the kit.
Thinking outside the box, bag or bottle !
Vending Machines, a good source of emergency food and water supplies if the SHTF.
I know, I for one never even gave a second thought to the snacks, food and beverages that might still be in vending machines around lots of local businesses and social establishments.
As someone who is prepared for some or most emergencies, you think first of your own supplies that you have already gathered and stored, then you might think of going to the grocery stores, like everybody else around your neighborhood and finding the shelves emptied of most of the bare essentials, but did anyone think of looting the vending machines ?
If this possibility ever presents itself to you, you might want to have a couple heavy-duty canvas bags with you to lug the items you scored, back to your stash.
Bottles of water are going to take up a lot of bag space and the weight is something to think about too ! Candy bars and bagged snacks aren't so bad and are going to be safe to hoard then say, food items from other machines that could be spoiled, since the power and refrigeration might have been or is off.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Alternate modes of Bugging Out or transporting supplies
If we have a major power outage and gasoline runs short you can use several different methods of walking or pedal power to do your hunting and gathering for supplies. Pictured below are just a few examples. You can get very creative. Transform an old golf cart, wheelbarrow or dollie to haul supplies if needed. Carrying backpacks or canvas sacks of supplies in a stroller or over the frame of a bicycle is a lot easier than on your back.
Possible Emergency Shelter
Cold Weather Preparedness Tips
Ice Storm
1. Survival Kit & Tips for the Car, SUV, Van etc.
A. Never use hot water to clear a frozen windshield
B. Use an anti-freezing windshield washer fluid to keep
spray nozzles from freezing and clearing windshield
C. Keep a blanket, gloves, hat, boots, flashlight, candle, matches or
lighter, shovel, bag of sand or kitty litter, bottled water, gum, snacks
and jumper cables in your car
D. If stranded and using the car for warmth, make sure
the exhaust pipe isn't clogged with snow & ice
E. Have your cell phone charged & have plug-in charger,
make sure to have Police, Fire & Insurance numbers
pre-loaded in your phone (double check to make sure
they didn't get deleted when you updated to a new
phone)
F. Never leave your car unless other shelter is visible
G. Try to have a full tank of gas before heading out
H. Be sure to have a good scraper and scrape ice & snow
off your head and tail lights.
I . Front-Wheel & All Wheel Drive vehicles don't require
added weight over the rear axle, your engine sits over
your drive wheels.
J. Squirt WD-40 or graphite into car door locks
K. Fill a spray bottle with 2/3's white vinegar and 1/3 water to make a de-icer for your windshield.
L. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, cold temps cause
tire pressure to drop by almost half what they should be.
M. Have a map of your state handy or even an Atlas.
N. Always let a car that has been sitting outside all night in freezing and sub-zero temps, warm up before driving.
2. Be prepared in the event of any type of storm
A. Have prescription medicine handy in the event you have to leave your home in a hurry (make this part of an evacuation plan)
B. Re-fill prescriptions if yours are low, before a storm
C. Fill your bath tub with water and have a bucket to use to make the toilet flush, if necessary (in the event of a power outage)
D. Have your chimney cleaned and maintained periodically and have a fire extinguisher handy if needed
E. Top off your car's gas tank before a storm hits your area, in case you HAVE to leave
F. If you have to be outside, dress in warm layers and wear a hat to keep your head dry and retain your body heat
G. Have your heat pump & furnace serviced regularly, during warmer months
H. With all the media coverage for upcoming weather (TV, radio, social media, & weather APPs on your phone), it shouldn't come as a surprise to you
and maybe you need to pickup some last minute items from the store a couple days ahead of time. Having a pretty well stocked pantry helps a lot
too. In most cases you might need to hold out for 2-3 days and you're better off staying off the streets anyway.
I. If you have a fireplace but don't use it, make sure the flu is closed and seal off the opening of the fireplace so no cold drafts come in your house.
J. If you use your fireplace or want to use it in the event of an emergency, you might want to, or probably do have a supply of good wood to burn
stockpiled close by. Not all woods are good to burn. Hickory, Oak, Walnut, Maple & Apple are good, just make sure they're well seasoned (dried)
3. Conserving your heat during a power outage
A. Close off sections of the house not used (harder to do with homes having an open floor plan)
B. Try to live around the room that has the fireplace in it (if you have a free standing tent, it could be set up to add another barrier of insulation adding 10-15 degrees more warmth) Mattresses, blankets and pillows can be put inside to keep you off the floor and staying warmer
C. Close window shades & curtains for insulation, caulk around windows leaking cold air.
D. Use mattresses off beds to stay off cold floors (or use the couch if you're comfortable sleeping on one)
E. Close cabinet, cupboard & closet doors when not in use
F. Keep outside doors closed as much as possible and seal air leaks with insulation tape
G. Keep your garage door down as an additional insulating barrier
H. When sleeping in cold weather do not cover your nose and mouth to use warm breath to warm yourself. The moisture of your breath will cool
quickly and chill you faster
I. Check under sinks and around pipes for cold air and fill cracks with insulation or caulk
J. If re-modeling the kitchen, put insulation between new cabinets and the wall
4. Stuff around the house
A. Use your grill or fire pit for cooking over (always keep them outdoors)
B. Use your fireplace for warmth and cooking
C. Keep a screen up in front of your fireplace to keep sparks from popping out and burning you or the house down
D. Keep your refrigerator & freezer door closed as much as possible (if frozen or refrigerated foods begin to thaw, they can be cooked and eaten later)
E. Leftover cooked foods will last longer and will not go to waste, unlike uncooked foods allowed to thaw and spoil
F. A wok and pair of oven mits work well for stir-frying most meats and vegetables over an open fire, quickly
G. Cast Iron Cookware, like skillets & dutch ovens work well for cooking over open fires and using the hot coals too
EXTRA WINTER TIPS
In a cold weather emergency, you can layer the light weight clothing under the heavier weight clothing to keep warm. Also, a medium size tin can, could act as a holder for your candle and provide heat in side your vehicle if stranded. Remember to keep a window cracked a little, on the down wind side, to allow fresh air in to circulate.
In the event we have frigid temperatures for prolonged periods of time, we run the risk of having our water pipes freeze. If your electric service is still functional, you can do several things to help keep them from freezing. Open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks and let the heat from your home warm the pipes. If you have power you can use a flood light, type, fixture and aim the 60 watt light bulb at your pipes and the heat from the light will help them not to freeze. Allow your faucet to trickle slightly to keep the water lines open. You can also wrap towels around the pipes to add insullation. Keep in mind that the pipes on the outside walls of your home are at greatest risk (usually the kitchen, sometimes a master bath). DO NOT try heating the pipes with a torch.
I've owned Ford Areostar vans since 1989 and the kayak is the same age. We've been thru a lot together. Not exactly a Bug Out Vehicle with 4 wheel drive or pre 1980 without all the engine electronics that would be susceptible to an Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP), but it is very dependable, and now, in this age of preparedness, I've adapted it as an emergency shelter...of sorts. If something happened to our house, I wouldn't want to abandon it for looters to rummage thru. So I figured we'd need a better type of temporary shelter, other than camping in the front yard, in a tent, on the ground . By laying down the back seats of the van and having a pre-cut piece of half inch plywood to lay over the seats, I've created an inexpensive insert to be used as a sleeping platform for at least one, maybe two. With the aid of a couple of the Worlds Thickest Pool Floats, from FrontGate to use as mattresses, this makes for a more comfortable sleeping surface. We will cover the pool floats with a zippered, sheet or existing sleeping bags to keep your body off the vinyl-clad float. Sleeping bags and blankets can be added as needed. In warmer seasons, the windows could be opened and screening added to the outside of each window and attached with magnets and or Duck Tape. There is plenty of storage under the seats for your "Prepping" necessities. Maybe during the day the sliding, side door could be opened and a tarp could be secured to the luggage rack and extended out with poles and ropes to create a small covered area to sit out during high sun or light rain showers. I figure the van could be used for Spring, Summer & Fall but maybe if things got really bad for an extended length of time, maybe some sort of heating source could be rigged up for heat during winter months. I would hope things didn't get that bad but... One never knows!
The kayak on top of the van has multiple functions. The first thought is to have it to navigate the lake and fish or hunt out of, but while not in use and strapped to the top of the van, it can be used as a water collection device. Catching rain water in larger amounts to use for all our needs. It can also be put on the ground between two trees with a tarp strung between them and over the kayak to create a dry sleeping area, covered by the tarp. The tarp can be rigged in several different ways to cover the kayak and also catch rain water and pour into other containers for storage. Finally, I have a 2 wheel cart assembly that can be strapped to the kayak to transform it into a sort of wagon for carrying whatever we need, if we become more nomadic.
I'll have more pictures to post of this project as the weather gets better. Stay tuned !!
Written by J.Scott Keniston
The kayak on top of the van has multiple functions. The first thought is to have it to navigate the lake and fish or hunt out of, but while not in use and strapped to the top of the van, it can be used as a water collection device. Catching rain water in larger amounts to use for all our needs. It can also be put on the ground between two trees with a tarp strung between them and over the kayak to create a dry sleeping area, covered by the tarp. The tarp can be rigged in several different ways to cover the kayak and also catch rain water and pour into other containers for storage. Finally, I have a 2 wheel cart assembly that can be strapped to the kayak to transform it into a sort of wagon for carrying whatever we need, if we become more nomadic.
I'll have more pictures to post of this project as the weather gets better. Stay tuned !!
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Tips for Living out of your Vehicle
Back in the day, I worked about an hour from home, my work place had a nice shower facility and I had a Ford F-150 Pickup Truck, complete with cap and custom built storage in the pickup bed. We worked a lot of long hours and I decided to spend the nights, sleeping in the parking lot, at work and save myself a couple hours of drive time and use that time for sleeping. This was the early 80's and cable TV and cell phones weren't all the rage yet. I stocked my truck with enough clothing and toiletries to last me a week or more, I ate at local fast food chains, had a sawed off shotgun and 357 revolver for security and slept very comfortably in the 4x8 foot bed. I had a little TV that pugged into my cigarette lighter, for entertainment and life was good ! I was saving gas and getting more, much needed sleep.
If something happened and I found myself out of work and homeless, I could employee a lot of my same tactics but in a newer model, Ford Areostar Van. I have some emergency cash and could get a membership to a local fitness center and use their showers to keep myself clean and groomed for $45-60 dollars a month. I could use local laundry mats to clean my clothes and store simple cookware and food supplies in the van. with the aid of a cooler and a supply of ice. This plan could work for maybe up to 7 months out of the year. I wouldn't want to live out of the van during an Ohio winter. I think I would have to modify the plan to include migrating to some southern states for the winter months. I don't think I'd worry too much about setting up a post-office box for mail. I might instead buy a newer phone with chargers that can plug into a cigarette lighter or regular outlet and depend on surrounding WI-FI for communications and email while looking for work.
You'll notice the thick pool floats I use as mattresses on the plywood decking, I employed over the folded down seats. These not only work for bedding but you can also use them for floating a river, creek, pond or lake for fishing. They're a thick, vinyl-clad foam pad that never sinks and doesn't absorb water...plus the built-in pillows. We could make a sheet to zip over the foam to make a more comfortable sleeping surface. Sleeping bags, blankets and pillows, along with a bag of clothes, spare shoes, fishing tackle and perhaps a firearm or two would round out my supplies.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
If something happened and I found myself out of work and homeless, I could employee a lot of my same tactics but in a newer model, Ford Areostar Van. I have some emergency cash and could get a membership to a local fitness center and use their showers to keep myself clean and groomed for $45-60 dollars a month. I could use local laundry mats to clean my clothes and store simple cookware and food supplies in the van. with the aid of a cooler and a supply of ice. This plan could work for maybe up to 7 months out of the year. I wouldn't want to live out of the van during an Ohio winter. I think I would have to modify the plan to include migrating to some southern states for the winter months. I don't think I'd worry too much about setting up a post-office box for mail. I might instead buy a newer phone with chargers that can plug into a cigarette lighter or regular outlet and depend on surrounding WI-FI for communications and email while looking for work.
You'll notice the thick pool floats I use as mattresses on the plywood decking, I employed over the folded down seats. These not only work for bedding but you can also use them for floating a river, creek, pond or lake for fishing. They're a thick, vinyl-clad foam pad that never sinks and doesn't absorb water...plus the built-in pillows. We could make a sheet to zip over the foam to make a more comfortable sleeping surface. Sleeping bags, blankets and pillows, along with a bag of clothes, spare shoes, fishing tackle and perhaps a firearm or two would round out my supplies.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
Mosquito Netting, a MUST HAVE item, forgotten in most Preparedness supplies !
I have seen a lot of lists of what other "Preppers" and Survivalists have put together in their Bug Out Bags and posted for everyone else to follow but I've never seen any of them include Mosquito Netting in their "prepping supplies. Because you never know when you might have to bug out, I think mosquito netting should be included with the inventory. I know I've added it to ours ! If you've ever been plagued by mosquitoes at night, just imagine trying to sleep, with them flying all around you and in your ears. I know some pack mosquito repellent in their bags but the netting will last longer...the repellent will run out. I could see using the repellent during the day, if hiking thru mosquito infested areas but using the netting at night to sleep. Personally, I wouldn't want to put repellent on my face or around my eyes. Just say'n !!!
Re-Purpose old Fishing Tackle Boxes
Plastic or metal, large or small, old tackle boxes that you've out grown, and aren't using anymore can be re-purposed into Grab n Go, First-Aid Kits or Gun Cleaning Kits. I've done both with mine. I have other, smaller tackle boxes that I'm thinking about turning into First-Aid kits for our vehicles.
The Gun Cleaning Kits has everything I need to take care of all my guns from 22 cal, 30 cal. up to 12 ga. shotgun and everything in between. Different sized cleaning rods and the assorted jags/tips and brushes, cleaning solvents, lubricants, patches, bore lights, small hand tools and silicon cloths all tucked away nicely and portable. I use to keep all my supplies on a shelf, in a closet in one of the spare bedrooms, but since I've organized everything in an old tackle box, I can take the kit to wherever the guns are or wherever I want to clean my guns ! Like in front of the TV during a game !!!!
The First-Aid Kit has scissors, tweezers, Ex-acto-like razor knife (to use like a scalpel), spare blades, assorted bandages, cloth tape, band-aids, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, cotton balls, good, old fashioned oral thermometer, Duct Tape, small flashlight, headlamp, spare batteries, dust masks, maxi-pads (for dressing large wounds), gauze pads, bandanas, mirror, disposable gloves, toothbrushes, tooth paste, dental floss, Oral-Gel, Super Glue ( for emergency stitching of a large wound), matches, lighters, utility knife, good sheath knife, petroleum jelly, aspirin, Aleve (for pain), multi-vitamins, lip balm, sun screen and anything else you may think of. Sure, we have our medicine cabinet in the master bedroom but we also use our basement as our Emergency Shelter, for tornados and such...so we have a nicely equipped First-Aid Kit there as well.
The Gun Cleaning Kits has everything I need to take care of all my guns from 22 cal, 30 cal. up to 12 ga. shotgun and everything in between. Different sized cleaning rods and the assorted jags/tips and brushes, cleaning solvents, lubricants, patches, bore lights, small hand tools and silicon cloths all tucked away nicely and portable. I use to keep all my supplies on a shelf, in a closet in one of the spare bedrooms, but since I've organized everything in an old tackle box, I can take the kit to wherever the guns are or wherever I want to clean my guns ! Like in front of the TV during a game !!!!
The First-Aid Kit has scissors, tweezers, Ex-acto-like razor knife (to use like a scalpel), spare blades, assorted bandages, cloth tape, band-aids, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, cotton balls, good, old fashioned oral thermometer, Duct Tape, small flashlight, headlamp, spare batteries, dust masks, maxi-pads (for dressing large wounds), gauze pads, bandanas, mirror, disposable gloves, toothbrushes, tooth paste, dental floss, Oral-Gel, Super Glue ( for emergency stitching of a large wound), matches, lighters, utility knife, good sheath knife, petroleum jelly, aspirin, Aleve (for pain), multi-vitamins, lip balm, sun screen and anything else you may think of. Sure, we have our medicine cabinet in the master bedroom but we also use our basement as our Emergency Shelter, for tornados and such...so we have a nicely equipped First-Aid Kit there as well.
Re-Purposing a Pool Float !
Yes...the model is very pretty but I want you to look at the vinyl clad, foam, pool float she is floating on ! We have a couple floats like this at our house and have used them for much more than tanning, pool-side. My wife and I have used them for cushioned bedding in the back of my van when traveling & camping and have also used them to float the Little Miami River, using either our hands to paddle of bring our kayak paddles along with us. Either way, it's a unique way to float a river. You wouldn't believe how skinny of water I can float over, going down the rapids, without scrapping bottom. You also don't tip over in fast water. I could easily bring a pack rod and reel with a small soft-sided tackle system with a nice selection of lures, for a day's fishing, maybe a couple packets of snack crackers and a bottle of water and stuff them in the molded pillow, until needed. Just put several packages of crackers in a zip-loc bag to keep them water-proof. The rod and reel can also stuff into the pillow but I prefer keeping it in my lap on a lanyard, around my neck, so I don't lose it. River's aren't your thing, they also work well in ponds and lakes ! You can also get a small water-proof box to hold sun glasses and sun screen...nothing too big, you don't want to tear the vinyl and expose the foam to water.
Yes, inflatable pool floats work too but are very susceptible to punctures.
Yes, inflatable pool floats work too but are very susceptible to punctures.
Survival Shotgun, a pretty slick setup !
If I needed to buy a shotgun and wanted it to be outfitted for survival, this is the way I'd go. This is Creek Stewart's (of Willow Haven Outdoors of Indiana) Survival Shotgun. He started with a Mossberg 500 12 gauge shotgun and watch what all he has done with it.
Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86o8tN0wszc
Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_POBNi91UM
Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86o8tN0wszc
Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_POBNi91UM
Creating a Survival Cache
There are all types of survival caches you can make for yourself. Try making up an ammo/survival cache for different parts of the house where your guns are stored. 50cal ammo cans work well but are heavy to carry. You could store 2 boxes of shotgun shells, a brick of 22cal., 2 boxes of 357mag. and a couple boxes each of 5.56 & 7.62 in each can, for example. In with the ammo you can have a couple knives, matches & lighter.
You could also make a tubular type cache to bury in a secret hiding place.
Do something along the line of what you see in the photo. A Shotgun & handgun with a box of related ammo for each. A Llifestraw to provide a safe, clean water source, multi-tool, a few assorted knives, flashlight, matches & lighter, paracord, a survival blanket, maybe a piece of heavy duty foil (like from the Honey Baked shop) folded up to use to make a vessel for carrying and heating water if needed. A few packets of tuna, chicken, jerky,, salt & pepper, maybe a ARMY Surplus style canteen (that sits inside a kind of pot and has a lid that can be used like a little stove and a metal strap that keeps it all together and makes a handle for the pot or cup as needed). A boonie hat and hopefully a poncho might fit too.
You could use a Ruger 10/22 takedown model rifle and have a 22 pistol to reduce the weight of carrying two different types of ammo. You would want to try to make this as light as possible and fashion a sling so it can be carried over the shoulder if needed.
You could also make a tubular type cache to bury in a secret hiding place.
Do something along the line of what you see in the photo. A Shotgun & handgun with a box of related ammo for each. A Llifestraw to provide a safe, clean water source, multi-tool, a few assorted knives, flashlight, matches & lighter, paracord, a survival blanket, maybe a piece of heavy duty foil (like from the Honey Baked shop) folded up to use to make a vessel for carrying and heating water if needed. A few packets of tuna, chicken, jerky,, salt & pepper, maybe a ARMY Surplus style canteen (that sits inside a kind of pot and has a lid that can be used like a little stove and a metal strap that keeps it all together and makes a handle for the pot or cup as needed). A boonie hat and hopefully a poncho might fit too.
You could use a Ruger 10/22 takedown model rifle and have a 22 pistol to reduce the weight of carrying two different types of ammo. You would want to try to make this as light as possible and fashion a sling so it can be carried over the shoulder if needed.
Hammered vs Hammerless !
It has probably been argued since the beginning of time of the controversy or preference of the invention of double or single-action, hammered or hammerless revolvers ... Everybody has an opinion and this is mine.
I've conducted several studies just between hammered and hammerless revolvers. Testing with young and old groups alike and when it came down to putting your first shot on the mark, my test results show that 100% of my test subjects preferred the single-action method of shooting a hammered revolver over double-action trigger pulls. With a hammerless revolver, you don't have the option of shooting single or double action but with the hammered style you do. Older test subjects said their hands didn't hurt when they squeezed the trigger and their shots were much more accurate. The tests were done using 357mag, 22cal. & 38 Special ammo and it didn't matter what caliber, they all liked using a single-action style of shooting that first shot. Some of the test subjects already owned hammerless revolvers and now wished they'd bought a hammered version of the same gun ! If you're a woman, looking to buy a gun for defense and you walk into a gun shop, don't be surprised if they start showing you pink, hammerless revolvers that won't get snagged in your purse...don't fall for that old line, check them both out and make your own decision.
Again, this is just my opinion... I like semi-auto pistols, I just don't care for them as my first line of protection around the house. I prefer the element of surprise but who or what is going to be surprised ? It's crazy to have a semi-auto loaded and a round chambered, right? I know lots of people out there like the GLOCKS but there isn't a safety mechanism and I would worry about accidental shootings. On the other hand, a semi-auto that is loaded with a round in the chamber with the safety on, may be forgotten in a panic situation...then who is surprised ? Another situation would be if the semi-auto was loaded and a round wasn't in the chamber. Pulling the trigger before cocking or even remembering to cock the pistol may just be the cause of you to lose your edge or element of surprise. The single click of bringing a hammer back on a revolver may not be heard by a would be intruder....thus increasing your element of surprise and the smooth, gentle squeeze of the trigger will probably result in a more accurate shot.
Written by J.Scott Keniston
I've conducted several studies just between hammered and hammerless revolvers. Testing with young and old groups alike and when it came down to putting your first shot on the mark, my test results show that 100% of my test subjects preferred the single-action method of shooting a hammered revolver over double-action trigger pulls. With a hammerless revolver, you don't have the option of shooting single or double action but with the hammered style you do. Older test subjects said their hands didn't hurt when they squeezed the trigger and their shots were much more accurate. The tests were done using 357mag, 22cal. & 38 Special ammo and it didn't matter what caliber, they all liked using a single-action style of shooting that first shot. Some of the test subjects already owned hammerless revolvers and now wished they'd bought a hammered version of the same gun ! If you're a woman, looking to buy a gun for defense and you walk into a gun shop, don't be surprised if they start showing you pink, hammerless revolvers that won't get snagged in your purse...don't fall for that old line, check them both out and make your own decision.
Again, this is just my opinion... I like semi-auto pistols, I just don't care for them as my first line of protection around the house. I prefer the element of surprise but who or what is going to be surprised ? It's crazy to have a semi-auto loaded and a round chambered, right? I know lots of people out there like the GLOCKS but there isn't a safety mechanism and I would worry about accidental shootings. On the other hand, a semi-auto that is loaded with a round in the chamber with the safety on, may be forgotten in a panic situation...then who is surprised ? Another situation would be if the semi-auto was loaded and a round wasn't in the chamber. Pulling the trigger before cocking or even remembering to cock the pistol may just be the cause of you to lose your edge or element of surprise. The single click of bringing a hammer back on a revolver may not be heard by a would be intruder....thus increasing your element of surprise and the smooth, gentle squeeze of the trigger will probably result in a more accurate shot.
Written by J.Scott Keniston