10 Food Items to Always Have In Storage

It’s always a great feeling to be prepared when it comes to the food in your home. Whether you are bracing for a potential natural disaster or simply readying yourself for a hungry toddler, having these 10 food items always on hand will make your life easier and your house a little bit more self sustaining.

1. Honey
The best thing about honey is that it never goes bad. It can actually withstand broad temperature variations, and you can use it to sweeten just about anything. If it crystallizes, just reheat it, and it’s good as new.

2. Sugar, Salt, & Pepper
Although these items can cake up, they won’t go bad. Plus, you can use them to flavor absolutely anything. The best part is that in a pinch (get it? A pinch?) you can use salt for curing and medicinally.

3. Nuts, Nut Butter, and Trail Mixes
We always try to have trail mix on hand in my house because it is a fantastic source of protein and fat. You don’t have to refrigerate it, and it’s a good source of healthy energy too.

4. Canned Meat
You can get canned tuna, chicken, salmon, and turkey. Although they are not the healthiest choices and do expire eventually, they are excellent if you really need them.

5. Bottled Water
Sure it’s more of a beverage than a food item, but you still need about 1 gallon per person per day both for drinking and to help you maintain proper hygiene. 6. Rice and Pastas
Rice and pasta are both great sources of carbohydrates. They are really easy to prepare and have a very long shelf life.

7. Canned Fruit & Vegetables
Similar to canned meat, these are not always the healthiest choice because they have a lot of added sugar. However, you can them alongside of meat to create a well balanced meal and get much needed vitamins and minerals in your diet.

8. Flour and Dried Grains
Oatmeal, wheat, and cornmeal can all be used for baking. They are easy to prepare and contain may essential nutrients that your body needs

9. Dried Milk
Dried milk is actually not as bad as it sounds, and it works really well if you can’t get fresh milk. It has a long shelf life and can be used to drink or in baking.

10. Powdered Coffee, Tea, and Cocoa

These have always been staples in people’s kitchens. After all, how many people do you know who can barely start the day without their cup of coffee? They don’t provide much nutritional value, but the psychological impact is important too! Of course, if you want to be fully prepared, don’t forget to stock a can opener, a small camping stove, and emergency food for your pets as well just in case you need it.

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Ten Essential OTC Medications to Stockpile | Preppers Anonymous

Ten Essential OTC Medications to Stockpile | Preppers Anonymous Are over-the-counter (OTC) drugs really worth stockpiling? As a family physician my answer is a resounding yes. Most of the following were actually prescription medications when first released. (In higher dosages, several still are.) Although other OTC drugs are worth considering, these ten have been selected due to their ready availability, affordability, safety in both adults and children, and multi-use potential. Used alone or in combination, they can effectively treat dozens of conditions including: headache, fever, sore throats, ear ache, menstrual cramps, heartburn, arthritis, ulcers, diarrhea, allergies, hives, congestion, dizziness, mild anxiety, nausea, vomiting, poison ivy, athlete’s foot, ringworm, eczema, insomnia, backache, gout, diaper rash, yeast infections, and many more common illnesses. 1. Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)– Among the OTC anti-inflammatory medications, ibuprofen is probably the most versatile. Primarily indicated for pain and inflammation, it may also be used to relieve headaches, earaches, sore throats, sinus pain, stiff neck, muscle strains, menstrual cramps, arthritis including gout, and back pain. It is also effective at reducing fever and is generally safe for use in children. It is not advisable for most stomach-related pain, although may decrease the pain of kidney stones, kidney infections, and possibly bladder infections. The most common side effect is stomach irritation or heartburn. When combined with acetaminophen it is nearly as effective as codeine, tramadol, or hydrocodone in relieving more severe pain. 2. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)– Acetaminophen is the only OTC pain-reliever that is not an anti-inflammatory drug. It will not irritate the stomach like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen. It is useful for the same conditions as ibuprofen, though effectiveness varies according to patient. As mentioned above, it may be combined with ibuprofen in full doses for more severe pain. Side effects are very few, though in high dose, especially when combined with alcohol, it can lead to liver failure. It is available in several pediatric dosages, both for pain relief and fever reduction. 3. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)– An inexpensive antihistamine, diphenhydramine is primarily used for drainage due to respiratory infections and nasal allergies, in both adults and children. It is also indicated for hives and itching, including itchy rashes such as poison ivy. Although not all patients become drowsy when using diphenhydramine, many do so, making this medication useful for insomnia as well. Some people find the drug relieves nausea or mild anxiety. 4. Loperamide (Imodium)– The most effective OTC medication for diarrhea is loperamide, which is available both as tablet form and liquid for children. It is often useful for relieving intestinal cramping. 5. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)– Pseudoephedrine is effective at relieving congestion of both the upper and lower respiratory tract due to most common causes including infection, allergy, chemical irritation, and mild asthma or bronchitis. It frequently has a stimulatory effect, similar to caffeine. The most common side effects are those resembling a burst of adrenaline: rapid heart rate, palpitations, and increased blood pressure. Years ago this drug was used in young children, even babies, though now most pediatricians do not advise it in patients younger than about six years old. 6. Meclizine (Bonine, Dramamine)– This antiemetic drug is available both over the counter and by prescription. It relieves nausea, vomiting, motion sickness, and vertigo-like dizziness. For some patients it causes drowsiness, and therefore may be used as a sleep aid. It is related to medications for anxiety and may help with this as well. 7. Ranitidine (Zantac)– Although several medications are available OTC for the treatment of heartburn, ulcers, and other acid-reducing conditions, ranitidine is among the best-tolerated, is inexpensive, and is also useful for relieving hives. Doctors often advise an acid-reducing medication such as ranitidine for patients who experience stomach upset when taking ibuprofen, though this must be done with caution. 8. Hydrocortisone cream– The 1% version of hydrocortisone is the strongest steroid cream available over the counter. It is safe for use in both adults and children in treating inflamed and/or itchy rashes such as eczema, poison ivy, diaper rash, and other minor genital irritations. 9. Bacitracin ointment– This ointment is best used to prevent skin infections when the integrity of the skin has been breached, as by an abrasion, laceration, insect bite, or sting. It also may be used to treat a superficial skin infection such as a mildly infected wound or impetigo. It is less likely to produce a topical skin allergy than other topical antibiotic preparations that contain neomycin. It cannot be used to treat deeper infections, however, which generally require an antibiotic by mouth. 10. Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin)The same antifungal medication, clotrimazole, is contained in both Lotrimin and Gyne-Lotrimin. Gyne-Lotrimin may be used to treat both female yeast infections and any other yeast or fungal infection that Lotrimin would treat, including athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, diaper rashes, and skin fold irritations. Conclusion For under $50 total a good supply of all of the above can be purchased. Several of these medications are also available at higher doses by prescription, and may actually be less expensive if obtained from a physician (ranitidine, meclizine, loperamide, and diphenhydramine), even paying full price.

101 Unique Items To Stock Before A Survival Situation

1. Shoe and boot laces – yes, you could use leather laces but why not stock some? 2. Fence posts – entirely too handy not just for fencing but for gardening 3. Barbed wire and chicken wire fencing 4. Cloth diapers – handy for so many things other than the obvious 5. Manual egg/batter beaters – whisks work, but the old-fashioned egg beater is hard to beat 6. Hoyle’s rule book for card games – lots and lots of entertainment in one simple book 7. Dice and dice games rulebooks – as above 8. Goggles – safety ones 9. A way to figure calendars into the future 10. Solar powered fencing – even if you don’t have livestock now, you may have it later. And it can be used as a “first line of defense” or used for parts for other uses 11. Canes – there will come a time when they are needed. Adjustable ones are better 12. Plant pots for starting seedlings. You’ll want various sizes 13. Metal rulers – because they last much longer. Different sizes 14. Rain gauge – for keeping track of rainfall 15. Barometer and something that tells you how to use it to get an idea of the weather 16. Candle molds and a double boiler for melting wax 17. Diaper pins – handy not only for the obvious but for securing lots of things 18. Kits to fix garden hoses – because you can stock 10 hoses but what happens when they break? 19. Cheesecloth – useful not just for cheese for all sorts of canning needs 20. Pea shellers, corn huskers, apple peelers and corers, etc. – all those “yankee tools” that our grandparents had but we no longer use. 21. Mimeograph machine and supplies – IF you can find one. 22. Chalk and blackboards. Blackboard paint isn’t a bad idea either 23. Goo remover aka Goo Gone 24. Eyeglass repair kits – they make handy little ones 25. Canoe – if you live near water or an inflatable raft if you’re not that close. If you get a canoe/raft, consider getting the big Duluth packs that outfitters use – they are waterproof (sorta) and good for packing 26. Oars/paddles – even if you don’t have one of the above, they can be handy for improvised rafts 27. Tire chains – if you live where it snows… 28. Swim goggles – not so much for recreational swimming, but for any time you might need to go into the water for whatever reason 29. Life preservers – if you need them, you need them 30. Reflectors and reflective tape 31. Pregnancy kits – I never see this on prepping lists, but it seems so basic… you want to know if you are so you can make sure to eat right, etc. 32. Neck and ankle braces 33. Canning funnel and jar lifter – often listed, but cannot have enough of these, in metal 34. Pack saddle for horses/mules 35. Liquid Smoke flavoring – my spouse swears by this stuff for nice flavoring 36. Powdered lemon and lime juice – an excellent way to store Vitamin C 37. Songbooks and simple instruments – for entertainment 38. Powdered buttermilk – useful for cooking 39. ClearJel canning starch – for canning pie fillings 40. Pet veterinary supplies – basic wound care is a must 41. Bottle corks of various sizes – for when you lose that bottle lid 42. Room thermometers 43. Bags/cloth to use to bag flowers for seed pollination 44. Clothesline and wooden clothespins 45. Clothes baskets that are actual baskets – they last longer and can be repaired 46. An inflatable kiddie pool – thousands of uses (okay, maybe I exaggerate, but useful nevertheless) 47. Lighter flints for refillable lighters 48. Fountain pens, inkwells and powdered ink – those Bic pens you stockpiled will run out eventually 49. UV window film – to help keep houses cool 50. Mailboxes – metal for all sorts of caches and other storage uses 51. Small paintbrushes – handy for many many things besides just painting 52. Pet carriers – one for each pet 53. Canvas shopping bags – handy for so many things 54. Posthole digger, manual – but try to get all your fencing done before … these things SUCK to use 55. Stovetop waffle makers 56. Wind vane 57. Spare glass bottles of various sizes 58. Mop wringer 59. Manual juicers – glass or metal will hold up better than the cheap plastic ones 60. Measuring cups – metal with engraved markings. Painted on markings will disappear with time 61. Measuring spoons – metal with engraved markings. The commonly used plastic ones with painted on markings will break and fade 62. Jar openers – the type that lets you get leverage on the lid 63. Stovetop popcorn popper – ‘cuz if the SHTF and the grid goes down, so does the microwave popcorn you have in the pantry 64. Leather punch and knife 65. Disposable ear plugs 66. Mechanical pencils and spare pencil lead – see above about pens. Pencil lead takes up a lot less space than traditional pencils 67. Folding cloth camping chairs – entirely too useful and easy to store 68. Microscope and slides 69. Old time photographic equipment – could be a new business! 70. Manual typewriter 71. Paper cutter 72. Manual hair clippers – human and animal 73. Steam juicers – stovetop variety 74. Slingshot and ammo 75. Hard hats 76. Sewing measuring tapes 77. Velcro 78. Sewing patterns – better to have them now … especially easy to sew shirts/pants/coats/outerwear 79. Window insulation foam – for keeping warm 80. Disguised safes – the “fake book” kinds 81. Nicorette gum and quit smoking supplies 82. Tomato powder – another good way to store Vitamin C 83. Citric acid, pectin, alum and Pickle Crisp for canning 84. Straight or safety razor for male shaving 85. Rennet tablets for cheese-making 86. Veterinary wrap – useful for not just animals, but people too 87. Autoclave or something that functions like one 88. Dental mirror 89. Walkers and toilet risers for the elderly and don’t forget bedpans 90. Carry yokes – the old fashioned water carrying yokes 91. CLR cleaner – or other lime/deposit/etc remover 92. Locks – combination, keyed, and other types as needed 93. Moth balls, cedar balls, and smelling salts 94. China markers/grease pencils – these are great for marking containers with what is in them 95. Safety vests 96. Fly paper – stores decently and is really handy. Researching a way to make this stuff is also probably a good idea 97. Foam camping pads for under sleeping bags 98. Winter scarves, gloves, mittens – its easy to forget these when it’s not winter 99. Wind up clocks – how else are you going to keep time if the grid goes down? 100. Tow strap for vehicles 101. Black and brown paint – useful for camoflage, hiding things, and making makeshift showers plus a myriad of other uses. 101 things that you probably already own but will not want to overlook in a SHTF situation. Some of these things you may own, but may not be “longlasting” varieties – perhaps you want to invest in ones that will last when you next purchase them? 1. Hot pads – Replace any worn out or not very thick ones. Mitts are probably best 2. Matches - 3. Playing cards 4. Scissors – heavy duty ones that can be re-sharpened would be best 5. Sewing needles, thread, thimbles, and pins – never ever have too many of these 6. Pet leashes – get good quality leather leashes and collars – easier to repair 7. Pet bowls – metal ones will last longer 8. Shoe laces 9. Garden hoses – good quality ones are best 10. Garden trowels and hand shovels – again – high quality metal ones are best 11. Hand axe 12. Ratchet set 13. Allen wrench 14. Spools of twine 15. Cargo straps 16. Duct tape – obviously you can’t have too much of this! 17. Hammer – is yours in good shape? 18. Screwdrivers – did you buy a cheap set or good quality drop forged steel ones? 19. Flyswatters 20. Bottle openers – thick metal is best 21. Manual can openers – don’t go cheap with this 22. Dish clothes – heavy cloth that will last is best 23. Corkscrew 24. Brooms – are yours good quality straw or cheap plastic? Are they in good shape? 25. Straws – they make glass reusable straws, these would not be bad to have on hand 26. Ice chests 27. Kitchen timers 28. Rubber bands 29. Safety pins 30. Magnifying glasses 31. Mortar and pestle 32. Staples and stapler 33. Life preservers 34. Garden hose nozzles – brass will last longest 35. Fingernail brushes – sanitation will be important 36. Key chains 37. Hair rubber bands and barrettes 38. Erasers 39. Garden sprayer 40. Outdoor thermometers 41. Folding chairs 42. Hangers – wire will last a lot longer than plastic. Wood is also good 43. Ice scrapers 44. Wall hooks 45. Windshield wiper blades 46. Aluminum foil 47. Safety pins – heavy duty 48. Eyedroppers of various sizes 49. Bobby pins 50. Rulers – metal will last longest 51. Three-in-one oil 52. Cargo straps 53. Nails, screws, bolts – making these by hand is a royal pain in the posterior. 54. Wheelbarrow – get a good quality metal or heavy duty plastic one 55. Twist ties – those bread/package ties will be useful – store them, don’t throw them away 56. Plastic bags – bread, ziplock, etc. 57. Maps – road atlases, road maps, etc. 58. Cotton balls – make excellent tinder as well as a thousand and one uses around the house 59. Note pads 60. Indelible markers (i.e. Sharpies) 61. Mechanical pencils 62. Dental floss 63. Pitchers – metal preferred 64. Goo remover (Goo-be-gone) 65. Scouring pads 66. Flower pots – various sizes 67. Vegetable peeler 68. Newspaper, old – keeping at least a couple of weeks old ones won’t ever hurt 69. Insect repellant 70. Sunscreen and aloe gel for when the sunscreen doesn’t work 71. Spare buttons 72. Nail clippers – both human and pet 73. Candle holders – metal or glass ones will last longer than plastic 74. Baby supplies – bottles, blankets, clothes, etc. If you’re like me, you still have baby stuff tucked away in your storerooms – even if you don’t have a baby after SHTF, you can always trade the stuff….. 75. Bicycles – are yours all set for hard use? 76. Metal garbage cans 77. Binoculars 78. Cloth napkins 79. Paper clips – not only useful for their normal function, but handy for other uses 80. Cold and hot packs – those lovely rubber bags 81. Lip balm 82. Utility knives – the kind that take the disposable blades or razor blades 83. Extension cords – indoor and outdoor 84. Air mattresses or cots – chances are good you’re going to have guests – where are they going to sleep? 85. Bay leaves – not just a spice, but useful to repel insects 86. Cellophane tape dispenser and tape – get a heavy duty one 87. Paper bags and manila envelopes – handy for storing things 88. Rubber boots 89. Knitting needles – learn to knit! It’s a great survival skill 90. Toothpicks 91. Kitchen utensils – you want metal ones or wooden, not plastic. 92. Barometer 93. Duffle bags – waterproof and with shoulder straps are best 94. Spare pill bottles – keep old prescription bottles 95. Tabasco sauce – along with other such condiments 96. All those takeout condiment packets – make great barter items as well as being generally handy 97. Bag clips - 98. Solar calculators 99. Board games 100. Dust pans – metal will last longer 101. Carmex (or other medicated lip balm) http://guideforpreppingandsurviving.com/101-unique-items-to-stock-before-a-survival-situation/

DOC K'S MEDICINE LIST (Very Exstensive List) The Best I've seen...

Thank you Doc K Posted on Self Reliant Network: April 11, 2012 The following posts are something I put together over the last few months in my (rare) spare time. I am often asked: What medicines should I have on hand at my house? Which medicines should I have for TEOTWAWKI? What medicines should I have that I can purchase without a prescription? What medicines should I have if I had access to any prescription medication? What I wanted to do was assemble a list of medications that are important in everyday life for me as a Family Medicine physician. Some are common. Some are not so common. Some are used to treat common problems. Some would only be used to treat rare problems. At this point all medicines listed are for adults. I will try and get to pediatric dosing next. I do not talk about life expectancy for any medication. The U.S. Military is currently conducting extensive testing with the FDA to examine the shelf life of medications. None of that data is public information. I have tried to gain access to the database for my own knowledge being in the military… I was denied. I think it is safe to say that most medications can be safely used after the expiration date. There are some notable exceptions that can be deadly. I do not know what all of these deadly exceptions are, so I will not elaborate. If in doubt, throw it out (or at least weigh the risks vs. benefits of using expired medications). This list is long but not exhaustive. I tried to be selective so as to not overwhelm someone trying to assemble a home pharmacy, but I also wanted to include commonly used (or commonly heard of) medications. Depending on where you live (in the USA or not), some medications may or may not be available or may be sold under a different trade name. I have medications listed by Major Category in each post. The medicines are listed by their generic name followed by the trade name if available or examples. The next line is the indication for the medicine (what it is supposed to be used for). Under this is the regular dosing of the medication and, if available, the maximum dose. **If you notice an error, please let me know so that I can check it and correct it if needed. If you notice a glaring absence of an important medication, please let me know so I can add it as well. KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS I tried to avoid using abbreviations as much as possible, but a few are so easy to use… PO = Per Oral (this means by mouth) OTC = Over The Counter (this means you can buy this without a prescription) OBLIGATORY COVER MY BUTT COMMENT: I have gone to school for many years and have trained for many years to prescribe medications. You most likely have not. This is not meant to insult, but to show the importance and potentially dangerous effects of using any and all medications. This list is only a list. This is not a prescription. This is not a diagnosis. I may have some errors in this list, although I have tried to be as accurate as possible. I am in no way responsible for the use or misuse of this list. This list should not be used in place of utilizing a properly trained healthcare practitioner. That would be foolish and potentially life-threatening. Use at your own risk. I do not knowingly own any stock or have any financial ties to any pharmaceutical or medication producing company that is or is not mentioned in this list. As always… Hope this helps, Doc K PAIN MEDICATIONS You should have the OTC meds at a minimum. If you have prescription strength pain meds, caution should always be used. Overdose is easy. I have included Migraine medications in this section as well. There are many Migraine meds out there; this is just a sampling. OVER THE COUNTER Acetominophen (Tylenol) Pain, Fever 500 mg - 1,000 mg PO every 3-6 hrs (max 4,000mg in 24 hrs) Ibuprofen (Motrin) Pain, Fever 400 mg - 800 mg PO every 4-8 hrs (max 3,200 mg in 24 hrs) Aspirin Pain, Fever 325 mg - 650 mg PO every 2-4 hrs (max 4,000 mg in 24 hrs); Heart attack: 325 mg chewed (edit: archer: added this from later in thread) Naproxen sodium (Aleve) Pain 200 mg PO every 8-12 hrs (max 600 mg per 24 hrs) PRESCRIPTION Naproxen (Naprosyn) Pain 500 mg PO initially, then 250 mg every 6-8 hrs (max 1250 mg per 24 hrs) Tramadol (Ultram) Pain 50 mg - 100 mg PO every 4-6 hrs (max 400 mg per 24 hrs; may need to titrate up) Tylenol-3 (acetaminophen 300 mg / codeine 30 mg) Pain 1-2 tabs PO every 4-6 hrs; with food (max 4,000 mg acetaminophen in 24 hrs) Percocet Pain Dosing varies Lortab Pain Dosing varies Darvocet N 100 (acetaminophen 650 mg / propoxyphene napsylate 100 mg) Pain 1 tab PO every 4 hrs (max 6 tabs per 24 hrs) Fentanyl Pain 50 mcg - 100 mcg IV/IM every 1-2 hrs Morphine sulfate Pain 2.5 mg - 10 mg SC/IM/IV every 2-6 hrs Ketorolac (Toradol) Pain 30-60 mg IM (max 120 mg per 24 hrs) Sumatriptan (Imitrex) - Oral Migraines Oral: 25-50 mg (with fluids); May repeat in 2 hours (max dose 200 mg in 24 hrs) Sumatriptan (Imitrex) - Intranasal Migraines Intranasal: 5-20 mg in one nostril; May repeat in 2 hours (max dose 40 mg in 24 hrs) Sumatriptan (Imitrex) - Sub Cutaneous Migraines SubQ: Up to 6 mg; May repeat in 1 hour (max dose 2 injections in 24 hrs) Rizatriptan (Maxalt) - Oral Tablet or Oral Dissolving Tablet Migraines 5-10 mg PO; May repeat in 2 hours (max dose 30 mg in 24 hrs) GI MEDICATIONS Lots of stuff in here from dehydration to heartburn to motion sickness. Note: Constipation is not a joke. It can make your life miserable and could lead to serious medical problems. If we ever have a TEOTWAWKI scenario, many people will get constipated from the drastic changes in everyday life. Be proactive and eat some fiber. 1-3 bowel movements a day is normal. 25-30 grams of fiber a day is your goal. Try to get there now… slowly. OVER THE COUNTER Oral Re-Hydration Salts (electrolyte replacement mix: Gatorade, etc.) Dehydration Use as directed on packaging Loperimide (Imodium) Diarrhea 4 mg PO x 1 dose; then 2 mg PO after each loose stool (max 16 mg in 24 hrs) Pepto Bismol Diarrhea CHEWABLE TABS: 2 tabs PO every 30-60 minutes (max 16 tabs in 24 hrs) Simethicone (Gas-X) Gas 1-2 tabs PO (max 6 tabs in 24 hrs) Calcium Carbonate (Tums, Rolaids, Maalox) Heartburn Tums: 2-4 tabs PO (Tums: Max 15 tabs per 24 hrs); Rolaids: 1-2 tabs PO (may repeat hourly if symptoms return) Ranitidine (Zantac) Heartburn/Reflux, Allergic Reactions 150 mg PO every 12-24 hrs (max 300 mg in 24 hrs) Famotidine (Pepcid AC) Heartburn/Reflux, Allergic Reactions 20-40 mg PO twice a day (max 80 mg in 24 hrs) Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia 400mg/5ml) Heartburn/Constipation LIQUID: Heartburn - 5-15 mL as needed up to 4 times/day; Constipation - 30-60 mL at bedtime Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia 311mg Tabs) Heartburn/Constipation TABLETS: Heartburn - 2-4 tablets needed up to 4 times/day; Constipation - 8 tablets at bedtime Docusate (Colace) Constipation 100 mg PO twice a day Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (Miralex) Constipation 17 g of powder (~1 heaping tablespoon) dissolved in 4-8 ounces of beverage, once daily; do not use for >2 weeks Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) Constipation ORAL: 5-15 mg PO at bedtime (max 30 mg per 24 hrs); RECTAL: 10 mg rectally one time Enema kit Constipation Use as directed on packaging Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) Nausea, Motion Sickness 50-100 mg PO every 4-6 hours (max: 400 mg in 24 hrs) Meclizine (Bonine) Nausea, Motion Sickness 25-50 mg PO (max 100 mg per 24 hrs) Prochlorperazine (Compazine) suppositories Nausea, Vomiting 25 mg rectally twice daily Promethazine (Phenergan) suppositories Nausea, Vomiting, Allergic reaction 12.5-25 mg rectally twice daily Activated charcoal Poisoning 25-100 g PO as a single dose Preparation H Hemorrhoids Use as directed on packaging PRESCRIPTION Esomeprazole (Nexium) Heartburn/Reflux 20 mg - 40 mg PO every 12-24 hrs; take 1 hr before meal (max 80 mg per 24 hrs) Ondansetron Oral dissolving tablet (Zofran ODT) Nausea 4-8 mg PO every 8 hrs (max 24 mg per 24 hrs) Scopolamine Patch (Transderm Scop) Motion Sickness Apply 1 patch behind the ear at least 4 hours prior to exposure and every 3 days as needed Dicyclomine (Bentyl) Abdominal Cramping / Irritable Bowel Syndrome 20-40 mg by mouth every 6 hours as needed for cramping (max 160 mg per 24 hours)« Last Edit: March 28, 2010, 06:01:17 PM by lvschant » Logged 'But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.' ALLERGY MEDICATIONS Allergies can range from annoying to life threatening. There have been other posts about alternatives to an Epi-Pen. I include Asthma medications in the Repiratory section. Also note that some of these medications are used for other purposes. Keep this in mind when stocking your pharmacy. If one drug can do more than one job, consider it strongly. OVER THE COUNTER Sinus Rinse (Neil Med) Allergies Use as directed on box (1-2 rinses per day) Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Allergic Reactions, Motion Sickness, Insomnia 25 mg - 50 mg PO every 4-6 hrs (max 100 mg per dose; max 400 mg per 24 hrs) Loratidine (Claritin) Allergies, Allergic Reaction 10 mg PO every 24 hrs (max 20 mg per 24 hrs for a few days) Ceterizine (Zyrtec) Allergies, Allergic Reaction 5-10 mg PO every 24 hrs (max 10 mg per 24 hrs) Ranitidine (Zantac) Heartburn/Reflux, Allergic Reactions 150 mg PO every 12-24 hrs (max 300 mg in 24 hrs) Epinephrine Inhaled (Primatene Mist) Allergic Reaction, Asthma One inhalation, may repeat after one minute; wait 3 hours before using again PRESCRIPTION Epi-Pen Anaphylactic Reaction (respiratory compromise) 0.3 mg IM x 1 dose; May repeat Epi-Pen Jr Anaphylactic Reaction (respiratory compromise) 0.15 mg IM x 1 dose; May repeat Epinephrine vials with needles Anaphylactic Reaction 0.1-0.5 mg (1:1000 soln) SC/IM every 5-15 minutes (Max 1 mg per dose) Epinephrine vials with needles Severe Asthma Attack 0.1-0.5 mg (1:1000 soln) SC/IM every 20 minutes - 4 hrs (Max 1 mg per dose) Prednisone Severe Asthma Attack; Many other reasons 40-80 mg PO every 12-24 hrs (max 80 mg per 24 hrs) RESPIRATORY MEDICATIONS The OTC meds are mainly for common cold issues. The prescription meds are Asthma medications. Antibiotics are addressed below. OVER THE COUNTER Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) Nasal congestion 30-60 mg every 4-6 hours (max 240 mg/24 hours) Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) Nasal congestion 10-20 mg every 4 hours Oxymetazoline (Afrin) - Decongestant nasal spray Nasal congestion 2-3 sprays into each nostril twice daily (not to exceed 3 days) Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Allergic Reactions, rhinorrhea 25 mg - 50 mg PO every 4-6 hrs (max 100 mg per dose; max 400 mg per 24 hrs) Loratidine (Claritin) Allergies, rhinorrhea 10 mg PO every 24 hrs (max 20 mg per 24 hrs for a few days) Guaifenesin (Mucinex) Cough, phlegm 600 mg tablets: 1-2 tabs PO every 12 hrs (Max 4 tabs per 24 hrs) Dextromethorphan (Robitussin) Cough 10-20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6-8 hours (max 120 mg/day) Cough Drops Cough varies Sore throat spray (Chloraseptic) Sore throat Use as directed on packaging Dayquil Cold/flu - combo of above meds Use as directed on packaging Nyquil Cold/flu/sleep - combo of above meds Use as directed on packaging PRESCRIPTION Albuterol Inhaled (Proventil HFA) Asthma wheezing (bronchospasm) 2 puffs inhaled every 4-6 hrs (max 12 puffs per day) Levalbuterol Inhaled (Xopenex) Asthma wheezing (bronchospasm) 2 puffs inhaled every 4-6 hrs (max 12 puffs per day)SLEEP MEDICATIONS I debated for some time about including sleep medications in this topic. However, I decided to put them in after all, because sleep is so important. Between simple things like travel and time zone changes, a person can easily lose focus and emotional stability without proper sleep. If you are not sleeping well, nothing seems right, and hope is low. So I included these medications. OVER THE COUNTER Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Insomnia - great place to start for insomnia 25 mg - 50 mg PO every 4-6 hrs (max 100 mg per dose; max 400 mg per 24 hrs) PRESCRIPTION Zolpidem (Ambien) Insomnia - best for sleep initiation problems 5-10 mg PO at bedtime (max 10 mg per 24 hrs) Zolpidem Continuous Release (Ambien CR) Insomnia - best for sleep maintenance problems 12.5 mg PO at bedtime (max 12.5 mg per 24 hrs) Eszopiclone (Lunesta) Insomnia - alternative to Ambien CR 2 mg PO at bedtime (max 3 mg per 24 hrs) Trazodone Insomnia 25-50 mg PO at bedtime (may gradually work up to max of 200 mg at bedtime) Tamazepam (Restoril) Insomnia - can be used with Ambien if needed 15-30 mg PO at bedtime Modafinil (Provigil) Fatigue / Narcolepsy 200-400 mg by mouth one time per day (max 400 mg per 24 hrs)TOPICAL SKIN MEDICATIONS There are a ton of medications for the skin. I only included ones that I commonly use or recommend. That doesn’t mean that others are not just as good. Specifically, I do want to mention the multiple antibiotic ointments (Polysporin, Neosporin). Recent research has shown that these are not as good as single antibiotic ointments (like Bacitracin). Also, Neosporin has a high rate of causing allergic-type skin reactions. OVER THE COUNTER Diaper Cream (Balmex, Desitin) Heat Rashes, Chaffing Apply topically to affected area 1-3 times per day Aloe Vera Burns, Sunburns Apply topically to affected area in thin layer 3-4 times per day Topical Benzocaine (Anbisol, Orajel) Cold sores, Stings, Burns, Sunburns Apply topically to affected area in thin layer 3-4 times per day Topical Lidocaine Sting/Burn Relief Sprays (Safetec, Solarcaine, etc.) Burns, Bites Use as directed on packaging Topical Antihistamines (Benadryl Cream) Itching Apply topically to affected area up to 3-4 times per day Hydrocortisone Topical Steroid 1% (Cortaid, Cortizone) Rash Apply topically to affected area 2-4 times per day Topical Antifungals (Tinactin, Lamisil, Lotrimin, Micotin) Ringworm, Athletes foot, Jock itch, etc. Apply topically to affected area 1-2 times per day Bacitracin (topical antibiotic) Topical antiseptic Apply topically to affected area 1-5 times per day Silver sulfadiazine 1% cream (Silvadene) Topical antiseptic, Burns Apply topically to affected area 1-2 times per day Zanfel Poison Ivy, Oak, Sumac Scrub onto affected area for 15 seconds, rinse with water; May repeat until no itching remains PRESCRIPTION Mupirocin (Bactroban) Topical skin infections (e.g. Impetigo) Apply topically to affected area 3 times per day - watch closely for worsening Topical Steroid (Multiple Higher Potency Meds Available) Rash Apply topically to affected area 2-4 times per day MISCELLANEOUS MEDICATIONS Just a couple of things that didn’t fit easily into any other category. Ammonia Smelling Salts Passing out Use as directed on packaging Clotting Agents (QuikClot Combat Gauze) Massive hemorrhage (bleeding) Unroll gauze and pack in wound; hold with pressure - GET TO HIGHER LEVEL OF CARE ASAP! Acetazolamide (Diamox) Acute Mountain Sickness Prevention 250 mg PO twice a day (24-48 hrs before ascent, 48 hours after arrival at altitude)ENDOCRINE MEDICATIONS I included the thyroid protection medication here for the almost impossibly needed use after radiation exposure. If you have Diabetes or Thyroid problems, make sure you have plenty of medications on hand. A short term disaster (e.g. a hurricane) can cause a city to shut down for a week. This can lead to death if a person is not prepared. OVER THE COUNTER Potassium Iodide (ThyroSafe = 65 mg Tabs, ThyroShield=65 mg per mL) Thyroid protection after radiation event Adults 130 mg (2 tabs) PO per day until significant radiation exposure has passed; Childrens Dosing: <1 month: 16.5 mg PO every 24 hrs (1/4 tab) 1mo-3yrs: 32.5 mg PO every 24 hrs (1/2 tab) 3-12 yrs: 65 mg PO every 24 hrs (1 tab) PRESCRIPTION Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levothroid) Thyroid hormone replacement Use as directed for Hypothyroidism Glucose tabs (many brands out there) Hypoglycemia 3-4 tablets PO as needed (Use as directed on packaging) Glucose paste (Glutose paste) Hypoglycemia Use as directed on packaging Insulin Diabetes glucose control Use as directed for Diabetes EYE MEDICATIONS Eye injuries and infections need to be evaluated quickly. If you are able, seek expert help. OVER THE COUNTER Rewetting Eye Drops Dry eyes, Eye irritation Use as directed on packaging PRESCRIPTION Erythromycin Ophthalmic 0.5% Ointment Bacterial eye infections Apply 1 cm ribbon of ointment to affected eye(s) 4-6x per day for 7-10 days Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Ointment Bacterial eye infections Apply 1 cm ribbon of ointment to affected eye(s) 3x per day for 2 days then twice a day for 5 days DENTAL MEDICATIONS Dental pain after a chipped tooth, cavity, or lost filling/cap can be very painful. These are great items to have on hand in a bug out bag as well as at home. OVER THE COUNTER Temporary Filling Material (Cavit) Loss of filling, crown, new cavity Clean tooth, dry tooth, pack with temporary filling as directed, seek higher level of care ASAP Temporary Filling Material (Intermediate Restorative Material) Loss of filling, crown, new cavity Clean tooth, dry tooth, pack with temporary filling as directed, seek higher level of care ASAP Temporary Filling Material (Express Putty) Loss of filling, crown, new cavity Clean tooth, dry tooth, pack with temporary filling as directed, seek higher level of care ASAP Zinc oxide powder Loss of filling, crown, new cavity Can mix with oil of cloves to make a paste to temporarily fill Paraffin (dental wax) stick Loss of filling, crown, new cavity Can muse to temporarily fill Oil of Cloves (Eugenol) Tooth pain from loss of filling, crown, or cavity Apply one drop of oil of cloves to affected tooth; cover with wax or temporary filling; Alternatively, soak a cotton ball with mixture of a few drops Oil of Cloves and cooking oil and place on tooth - Either one provides temporary tooth pain relief Kenalog in Orabase Oral ulcer or painful oral lesion Press a small dab (about 1/4 inch) to the lesion until a thin film develops - use only enough to coat the lesion with a thin film.ANTIVIRAL MEDICATION If there is going to be one huge worldwide event that leads to TEOTWAWKI, the most likely is a viral pandemic. There is not a lot you can do to treat a virus, but Elderberry has shown some promising results in recent research. I included treatment and prophylactic doses of the most common prescription anti-flu medications we have currently available. OVER THE COUNTER Elderberry Extract (Sambucol) Influenza prevention/treatment Use as directed on packaging PRESCRIPTION Zanamivir (Relenza) - TREATMENT Influenza Treatment Two inhalations (10 mg total) twice daily for 5 days. Doses should be spaced by ~12 hours. Begin within 48 hrs of signs or symptoms. Zanamivir (Relenza) - PROPHYLAXIS Influenza Prophylaxis Two inhalations (10 mg) once daily for 10 days. Begin within 36 hrs following onset of symptoms in index case; Community outbreak: Two inhalations (10 mg) once daily for 28 days. Begin within 5 days of outbreak. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) - TREATMENT Influenza Treatment 75 mg PO twice daily initiated within 2 days of onset of symptoms; duration of treatment: 5 days Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) - PROPHYLAXIS Influenza Prophylaxis 75 mg PO once daily; initiate treatment within 2 days of contact with an infected individual; duration of treatment: 10 days. Community outbreaks, dosing is 75 mg once daily. May be used for up to 6 weeksANTIFUNGAL MEDICATIONS “There is a fungus among us!” Keeping the area clean and dry goes a long way in prevention. OVER THE COUNTER Miconazole (Monistat) Vaginal yeast infections Suppository or Creams (Use as directed on packaging) Topical Antifungals (Tinactin, Lamisil, Lotrimin, Micotin) Ringworm, Athletes foot, Jock itch, etc. Apply topically to affected area 1-2 times per day PRESCRIPTION Nystatin (swish and swallow, cream, or powder) Thrush, Topical skin infections Oral Swish and Swallow formulation - 4 x per day; Cream - Apply topically to affected area 2-3 times per day; Use powder for moist areas Oral Antifungals Nail fungal infections, Severe fungal infections Use as directed (based on the medication); Should only be used if proper lab work is availableANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS I debated about putting this section in here. There are so many antibiotics on the market. Some are extremely expensive. All ones designed for humans are prescription only. I will not go into the use of antibiotics sold for animals… because I just don’t know enough about that to talk about it. I first list common infections and the antibiotics that can be used. The antibiotics are basically placed in order of preference/usefulness for that infection. Yes, you can treat many of these infections with other antibiotics. I tried to keep it simple, and I tried to keep it with oral antibiotics only. If you need IV antibiotics, you should be in a hospital or under the care of a professional. Following the list of infections, I have the actual antibiotics listed with the dosages following (for each specific infection type). Again, not all indications and dosages are listed. But this will give you a good start. INFECTIONS Strep Throat Penicillin V, Amoxicillin, Cephalexin, Azithromycin Pneumonia (mild to moderate, uncomplicated) Azithromycin, Amoxicillin, Augmentiin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin Pneumonia (severe, complicated) IV medication is needed Mild Skin Infections Cephalexin, Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin Moderate Skin Infections EITHER Clindamycin or Penicillin V potassium AND Doxycycline or Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole Severe Skin Infections If it is an extensive infection or very rapidly spreading, IV medication is needed Erysipelas (Skin Infection) Mild: Penicillin V potassium or Amoxicillin; Severe: IV medication is needed Bite Wounds (Mild): Animal Bites Augmentin; Doxycyline or Trimeth.-sulfameth. or Penicillin VK PLUS Metronidazole or Clindamycin Bite Wounds (Mild): Human Bites Augmentin; Doxycyline or Trimeth.-sulfameth. or Penicillin VK or Cipro. PLUS Metronidazole or Clindamycin Bite Wounds: Infected IV medication is needed; Surgery is likely needed Bacterial Inner Ear Infections Amoxicillin, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, Augmentin Bacterial Outer Ear Infections Cipro HC Otic (ear), Cortisporin Otic Suspension/Solution (ear) Bacterial Eye Infections Erythromycin Ophthalmic, Ciprofloxacin Ophthalmic Ointment Urinary Tract Infections Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Cephalexin, Doxycycline Kidney Infections Levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole PLUS Amoxicillin Travelers Diarrhea Ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, Azithromycin, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole Cholera Oral rehydration therapy and/or IV rehydration is first line; Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin Giardia Metronidazole Serious GI Infections Many of these infections will need IV medications; Milder cases may benefit w/ Augmentin, Ciprofloxacin, Metronidazole Tick-Borne Diseases Doxycycline Anthrax Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Clindamycin Plague Doxycycline, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, Tetracycline ANTIBIOTICS Amoxicillin (Amoxil) Community Acquired Pneumonia: 500-1,000 mg PO three times daily for 7-10 days Bacterial Inner Ear Infection: Mild-Mod: 500 mg PO twice daily or 250 mg PO three times daily; Severe: 875 mg PO twice daily or 500 mg PO three times daily Amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium (Augmentin) Bacterial Inner Ear Infection: 875 mg PO twice daily Acute bacterial sinus infection: Extended release Tablets: Two 1000 mg tablets PO twice daily for 10 days Community Acquired Pneumonia: Extended release Tablets: Two 1000 mg tablets PO twice daily for 7-10 days Skin abscess: 875 mg PO twice daily Bite Wounds (Human/animal): 875 mg PO twice daily or 500 mg PO three times daily Kidney Infection (uncomplicated): 875 mg PO twice daily or 500 mg PO three times daily Diverticulitis, Perirectal abscess: Extended release Tablets: Two 1000 mg tablets PO twice daily for 7-10 days Azithromycin (Zithromax) Mild-to-mod respiratory tract, skin, soft tissue infxns: 500 mg PO in a single loading dose on day 1 followed by 250 mg PO daily on days 2-5 Community Acquired Pneumonia: 500 mg IV daily for at least 2 days, then 500 mg PO daily to complete a 7- to 10-day course of therapy Bacterial Sinus Infection: 500 mg PO daily for 3 days Infectious Diarrhea - Traveler's Diarrhea: 500 mg PO daily for 1-3 days or 1 gram PO in a single dose STD Infections (Chlamydia, Chancroid, Gonorrhea): Chlamydia, Chancroid: 1 gram PO one time; Gonorrhea 2 grams PO one time Cephalexin (Keflex) Mild skin infection (small abscess, boils, etc.): 250 mg PO four times daily (max 4,000 mg in 24 hrs) Moderate skin infection (mastitis, cellulitis, etc.): 500 mg PO four times daily (max 4,000 mg in 24 hrs) Acute bacterial pharyngitis ("Strep throat"): 500 mg PO twice daily for 10 days Uncomplicated Urinary Tract (Bladder) Infections: 500 mg PO twice daily for 7-14 days Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) Anthrax (inhalational - prophylaxis): 500 mg PO twice daily for 60 days or 400 mg IV twice daily for 60 days Anthrax (inhalational, GI, skin - treatment): 400 mg IV twice daily initially then transition to 500 mg PO twice daily for total of 60 days Bone/Joint Infection: Mild: 500-750 mg PO or 400 mg IV twice daily for 4-6 weeks; Severe: 400 mg IV three times daily for 4-6 weeks Skin Infections: Mild: 500-750 mg PO or 400 mg IV twice daily for 7-14 days; Severe: 400 mg IV three times daily for 7-14 days Infectious Diarrhea - Travelers Diarrhea: Mild: 750 mg PO x 1 dose; Severe: 500 mg PO twice daily for 3 days Infectious Diarrhea - Shigella or Salmonella: 500 mg PO twice daily for 3-7 days Infectious Diarrhea – Cholera: 1 gram PO x one dose Abdominal Infections (Diverticulitis, Abscess, etc.): 500 mg PO twice daily or 400 mg IV twice daily for 7-14 days Lung Infections: Mild: 500-750 mg PO or 400 mg IV twice daily for 7-14 days; Severe: 400 mg IV three times daily for 7-14 days Typhoid Fever: 500 mg PO twice daily for 10 days Bacterial Sinus Infection: 500 mg PO twice daily for 10 days Urinary Tract (Bladder) / Kidney Infection: Mild: 250 mg PO or 200 mg IV twice daily for 3 days; Severe: 500 mg PO twice daily or 400 mg IV twice daily for 7-14 days Clindamycin (Cleosin) Anthrax: 900 mg IV every 8 hours with ciprofloxacin or doxycycline Bite wounds (canine): 300 mg PO four times daily; take with a fluoroquinolone (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) Skin infections: 150-300 mg PO four times daily; Use with Doxycycline or Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) Severe nose/throat infections: 150-450 mg PO four times daily for at least 7 days (max 1,800 mg per 24 hrs) Doxycycline Tick borne diseases: 100 mg PO twice daily for 14-21 days Infectious Diarrhea – Cholera: 300 mg PO as a single dose STD, Urinary Infections: 100 mg PO/IV twice daily for 7-28 days Lung infections: 100 mg PO/IV twice daily for 7-14 days Anthrax (inhalational - prophylaxis): 100 mg PO/IV twice daily for 60 days (PO preferred) Anthrax (inhalational, GI, skin - treatment): 100 mg PO/IV twice daily for 60 days (IV for initial treatment, then switch to PO) Levofloxacin (Levaquin) Skin Infections: Uncomplicated: 500 mg PO daily for 7-10 days; Complicated: 750 mg PO daily for 7-14 days Lung Infections (community acquired pneumonia): 500 mg PO/IV daily for 7-14 days or 750 mg PO/IV daily for 5 days Lung Infections (serious lung infections/pneumonia): 750 mg PO/IV daily for 7-14 days Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections: 250 mg PO/IV daily for 3 days Complicated: Urinary Tract /Kidney Infections: 250 mg PO/IV daily for 10 days or 750 PO/IV daily for 5 days Anthrax (inhalational): 500 mg PO daily for 60 days beginning ASAP after exposure Metronidazole (Flagyl) Bacterial Vaginosis: 500 mg PO twice daily for 7 days Trichomonas Infection: 250 mg PO three times daily for 7 days or 2 grams PO as a single dose Anaerobic GI Infection (Diverticulitis, Abscess, etc.): 500 mg PO/IV every 6-8 hrs (max dose 4 grams daily) Giardia Infection: 500 mg PO twice daily for 5-7 days Amoeba Infection: 500-750 mg PO three times daily for 5-10 days Penicillin VK (Penicillin V potassium) Acute bacterial pharyngitis ("Strep throat"): 500 mg PO 3-4 times daily for 10 days Skin infections (Erysipelas): 500 mg PO four times daily Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra) DOSING Single Strength (SS) Tablet: Sulfamethoxazole 400 mg and trimethoprim 80 mg Double Strength (DS) Tablet is 2 SS tabs in one tablet USE Urinary Tract /Kidney Infections: 1 DS Tablet PO twice a day for 3-5 days (Mild); for 7-10 days (complicated); for 14 days (Kidney Infection) Infectious Diarrhea - Travelers Diarrhea/Shigella: 1 DS Tablet PO twice a day for 5 days Skin Infections (including MRSA): 1-2 DS Tablets PO twice a day http://selfreliantnetwork11.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/doc-ks-medicine-list-very-exstensive.html

How To Recharge (Single Use) Alkaline Batteries

I knew this was kind of possible; as a kid we used to leave dead alkaline batteries out in the sunshine for a few hours, and this seemed to recharge them a little bit, so we could get a bit more use out of them… What I didn’t realize is that you can actually purchase specific battery chargers which are designed to recharge dead single use alkaline batteries. Now maybe everyone else knew this, but I certainly didn’t! This means that once you have purchased a battery charger, such as the: Maximal Alkaline, RAM, Ni-MH, Ni-CD, AA, AAA, C, D, N, 9V BatteriesPower FC999 Universal Rapid Charger, you then effectively have free batteries for life. Our local authority recycles dead batteries, they pick them up with the garbage once a month. If I went out into the neighborhood that day, I could literally collect 1000s of free alkaline batteries which could then be recharged and reused. Even if your local authority doesn’t provide this service, you could still get all the free batteries you need, by asking friends and family to save their batteries for you. You could also ask local stores and commercial premises if they could save their batteries for you. Just to note – the Maximal Power FC999 Universal Rapid Charger doesn’t just charge alkaline batteries, it also charges: RAM, Ni-MH, Ni-CD, AA, AAA, C, D, N, and 9V batteries, so it’s got you covered for everything. Additionally, you might also want to purchase a battery tester, to check batteries are dead and check how well they have recharged; this SE BT20 9-Volt Battery Tester costs just $3 (with free delivery). Anyway, this might not be news to some of you, but hopefully it is useful information and saves some money for people that didn’t know. All our flashlights, remotes and radios etc take batteries; not to mention, if you have young kids, you get through a huge amount of batteries with all their toys and games. If nothing else, it is for more eco-friendly to reuse old batteries, rather than just throwing them in the trash… http://knowledgeweighsnothing.com/how-to-recharge-single-use-alkaline-batteries/

How To Make Butter From Milk (Couldn’t Be Easier!)

by Knowledge Weighs Nothing - Yesterday I did the post: Make Mozzarella From Milk In Just 30 Minutes which was extremely popular! Given that so many of you liked the idea of making cheese out of milk, I am assuming that you will also like to know how to make totally delicious butter!This one I’ve got, as making butter from milk is easy! It’s even easier to make butter from cream, but I have said how to make butter from milk, so let’s stick with that for now.
How To Make Butter From Milk
■First things first – pour one gallon of fresh full-cream milk into a container with which has a mouth wide enough for you to be able to skim the cream from the top of the milk when it forms.
■Now put your container of milk into the refrigerator for 12 hours or so, overnight will do. ■Next carefully skim off the cream that has formed on the top of the milk. Once you get down through the main cream and it starts to get thinner and more milk like, stop!
■Now leave your cream (covered) out on the side, until the temperature is approximately 75 degrees and it starts to smell a bit off.
■Add the cream to a large jar, making sure not to fill it more than 40% full. Put the lid on tightly and shake vigorously for between 10-30 minutes, depending on how vigorous you are! Once you start to notice a distinct separation, with the beginning of the butter clumping together within the butter milk, slow the shaking right down, but keep going; within a minute or two your butter should start to turn yellow.
■Now strain the butter from the buttermilk through a colander (save the buttermilk for pancakes!) and rinse under the tap. Shake off as much water as possible and add the butter solids to a bowl and mix them together to form one large mass, if there is still excess water in the bowl, pour this out.
■Now it’s simply up to you to add some salt to your butter (to your taste), mix it all together, put the butter to a container with a lid, refrigerate and enjoy! There you go – you’ve turned milk into butter! As said, it is much quicker if you are already starting off with cream, but now you can pretty much make butter from either cream or milk. READ MORE HERE: http://knowledgeweighsnothing.com/how-to-make-butter-from-milk-couldnt-be-easier/

United We Fall - Full Film by Dan Dicks & Bryan Law

A film by Bryan Law and Dan Dicks "United We Fall" is a documentary about the North American Union that is being developed right now between Canada, the United States, and Mexico. For years this topic has been debated in the news and in political circles as being a possible future for North America. In recent years, the mood has shifted and a rift is developing between those who want a Deeply Integrated North American Community, and those who wish to retain their national sovereignty. This film takes a look at both sides by interviewing both insiders and activists who have been at the heart of this heated debate. The film also looks to the broader agenda of building a world government and its implications. Featured Interviews: Robert Pastor (Council on Foreign Relations) Allan Gotlieb (Trilateral Commission, Bilderberg) Herbert Grubel (Creator of the "Amero") John Manley (President of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives) Luke Rudkowski (We Are Change) Dan Dicks (Press For Truth) Vijay Sarma (Political Activist, Independent Journalist) Dr. Andrew Moulden (Canadian Action Party) Richard Syrett (Talk Radio Host) United We Fall Three Nations. Two Sides. One Union. Directed by Bryan Law Produced by Dan Dicks & Bryan Law Music by Dan Dicks United We Fall on DVD includes over two hours of special features such as deleted scenes, Director/Producer commentary, behind the music and more. Own your copy on DVD and then make copies and give them to your friends, family members and complete strangers. For more information visit: http://www.pressfortruth.ca/dvd_dtls....

Reasons Why You Should Stock Salt

Salt has been an integral part of civilization dating back as far as 6050 B.C. Salt has been such an important element of life that it has been the subject of many stories, fables and folktales and is frequently referenced in fairy tales. It served as currency at various times and places, and it has even been the cause of bitter warfare. Offering bread and salt to visitors, in many cultures, is traditional etiquette. Aside from all of the uses that salt performs in terms of baking, food flavor and food preservation, salt has a number of other uses that you may never have thought of: Remove Rust Make a paste using 6 tablespoons of salt and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Apply paste to rusted area with a dry cloth and rub. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Perk Up Coffee Flavor Add a pinch of Salt to the coffee in the basket of your coffeemaker. This will improve the coffee’s flavor by helping to remove some of the acid taste. Dispose of Disposal Odor To help remove odors from garbage disposals, pour 1/2 cup of Salt directly into the garbage disposal. By running the disposal following manufacturer’s directions, you’ll send those odors down the drain. Eliminate Fish Odors Removing fish odor from your hands is simple with Salt. Just rub your hands with a lemon wedge dipped in salt, then rinse with water. Cut Cutting Board Odors To help cut odors off of your wooden cutting board, simply pour a generous amount of Salt directly on the board. Rub lightly with a damp cloth. Wash in warm, sudsy water. Soothe Sore Throats To alleviate the discomfort of a mild sore throat, gargle several times daily with a mixture of 1/4 teaspoon Salt and 1/2 cup warm water*. It’s like taking a liquid lozenge. Treat your Tootsie’s To prepare a salt water bath, pour 6 quarts (1-1/2 gallons) warm water in a large basin. Mix in 1/4 cup Salt and 1/4 cup baking soda. Soak feet for up to 15 minutes. Boiling Water Salt added to water makes the water boil at a higher temperature, thus reducing cooking time (it does not make the water boil faster). Testing egg freshness Place the egg in a cup of water to which two teaspoonfuls of salt has been added. A fresh egg sinks; if it floats, toss it. Cleaning greasy pans The greasiest iron pan will wash easily if you use a little salt in it and wipe with paper towels. Cleaning stained cups Rubbing with salt will remove stubborn tea or coffee stains from cups. Save the bottom of your oven If a pie or casserole bubbles over in the oven, put a handful of salt on top of the spill. It won’t smoke and smell, and it will bake into a crust that makes the baked-on mess much easier to clean when it has cooled. Fend Off Fire From A Rogue BBQ Toss a bit of salt on flames from food dripping in barbecue grills to reduce the flames and calm the smoke without cooling the coals (like water does). Removing pinfeathers To remove pinfeathers easily from a chicken, rub the chicken skin with salt first. Preventing mold To prevent mold on cheese, wrap it in a cloth dampened with saltwater before refrigerating. Keeping milk fresh Adding a pinch of salt to milk will keep it fresh longer. Scaling fish Soak fish in salt water before descaling; the scales will come off easier. Non-stick pancakes Rub salt on your pancake griddle and your flapjacks won’t stick. Keeping cut flowers fresh A dash of salt added to the water in a flower vase will keep cut flowers fresh longer. Keeping patios weed-free If weeds or unwanted grass come up between patio bricks or blocks, carefully spread salt between the bricks and blocks, then sprinkle with water or wait for rain to wet it down. Killing poison ivy Mix three pounds of salt with a gallon of soapy water and apply to leaves and stems with a sprayer. Deodorizing shoes Sprinkling a little salt in canvas shoes occasionally will take up the moisture and help remove odors. Relieving bee stings If stung, immediately wet the spot and cover with salt to relieve the pain. Deter ants Sprinkle salt at doorways, window sills and anywhere else ants sneak into your house. Ants don’t like to walk on salt. Clean teeth Use one part fine salt to two parts baking soda–dip your toothbrush in the mix and brush as usual. Melt snow and ice Sprinkle salt on snow or ice to melt away. Removing soot Occasionally throw a handful of salt on the flames in your fireplace; it will help loosen soot from the chimney and salt makes a bright yellow flame. The term “worth one’s weight in salt” means that a person is effective and efficient or deserving of one’s pay. The list above shows just how versatile and useful salt is and only proves just how valuable salt is as a survival staple. So the next time that you sprinkle this over your french fries take a second and think about all the different uses this delicious, flavor enhancing rock can provide. READ MORE HERE: http://guideforpreppingandsurviving.com/reasons-why-you-should-stock-salt/

Treat Migraines with an Herbal Tincture at Home ~ A Recipe

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) abounds in my garden! It is one of the most easy to grow medicinal herbs and has some pretty amazing healing properties…making it a great addition to the home pharmacy. Historically, lemon balm has been used to treat all kinds of nervous system ailments and is known for it’s ability to: ■calm an irritable child. ■act as an antiviral in treating cold sores due to the herpes virus. ■heal wounds and protect the skin. ■treat the symptoms of the common cold and flu when combined with other medicinal herbs. ■relieve the symptoms of migraine headaches, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Likewise, feverfew is unbeatable when it comes to treating the common headache, migraines, stress/tension headaches, and those headaches associated with PMS symptoms. It truly is a wonder herb and a must in the garden of those who suffer these ailments. Note: Please see my How to Make a Tincture at Home video for more helpful information regarding making a tincture. Migraine Tincture ~ A Recipe Supplies needed -Solvent (i.e. 100 proof alcohol or vegetable glycerin) -quart sized glass mason jar -4 oz. fresh or 2 oz. of dried herbs Ingredients -3 parts lemon balm -2 parts feverfew -100 proof vodka to fill Method 1. Measure your herbs depending on whether you are using fresh or dried herbs. 2. If using fresh herbs, chop until fine. 3. Add herbs to glass jar. 4. Pour solvent over herbs to fill the jar. The solvent should rise 1-2 inches above the herbs. 5. Place the lid on the jar and shake until the herbs are well combined. 6. Label jar with contents and date. 7. Set in a warm, sunny window and steep for 2-6 weeks, shaking daily. 8. Strain with a cheesecloth, compost the plant material, and place tincture in dark colored bottles for storage in a cool, dark place. The tincture should keep for up to 5 years. Adult Dosage At the sudden onset of migraine symptoms, begin taking 1/4-1/2 a teaspoon of the tincture every 30 minutes to an hour until symptoms subside. Feel free to print this recipe and add it to your herbal journal: Migraine Tincture Recipe (131kb PDF) Looking for the raw materials mentioned in this post? Check out the good people over at Mountain Rose Herbs and Bulk Herb Store…they are the go-to for all my dried herb and medicinal herb seed needs! I do have a limited quantity of these available in my little Etsy Shop Click here to see the listing. Have the ULTIMATE healing experience…get the Feverfew & Lemon Balm Herbal Tea too! Thank you for your support of The Marketplace. Be sure not to miss a single post in the series…click this link and subscribe to the blog. Disclaimer: Please understand that this information is for educational purposes only. The statements made here have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and they are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure or prevent any disease. Don’t take my word for it…you should always engage conventional wisdom and consult with your medical professional to determine potential drug interactions and safety of use. READ MORE HERE: http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/05/how-to-treat-migraines-with-an-herbal-tincture-at-home-a-recipe/

28 Amazing Benefits and Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide By Andrea Harper

Hydrogen peroxide is the only germicidal agent composed only of water and oxygen. Like ozone, it kills disease organisms by oxidation! Hydrogen peroxide is considered the worlds safest all natural effective sanitizer. It kills microorganisms by oxidizing them, which can be best described as a controlled burning process. When Hydrogen peroxide reacts with organic material it breaks down into oxygen and water.

1. Whiten Clothes – An Alternative to Beach
Add a cup of Peroxide to white clothes in your laundry to whiten them. Peroxide is great to get rid of blood stains on clothes and carpets. If there is blood on clothing, just pour directly on the spot, let it sit for about a minute, then rub and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.
2. Health
Your body makes Hydrogen peroxide to fight infection which must be present for our immune system to function correctly. White blood cells are known as Leukocytes. A sub-class of Leukocytes called Neutrophils produce hydrogen peroxide as the first line of defense against toxins, parasites, bacteria, viruses and yeast.
3. Rejuvenating Detoxifying Bath
Use about 2 quarts 3% Hydrogen peroxide to a tub of warm water. Soak at least 1/2 hour, adding hot water as needed to maintain a comfortable water temperature.
4. Foot Fungus
To cure a foot fungus, simply spray a 50/50 mixture of Hydrogen peroxide and water on them (especially the toes) every night and let dry.
5. Douche
Add 2 capfuls of 3% Hydrogen peroxide in warm distilled water once to twice a week to remove even chronic yeast infections.
6. Colonic or Enema
For a colonic, add 1 cup (8 ozs.) 3% H202 to 5 gallons warm water. (Do not exceed this amount) For an enema, add 1 tablespoon of 3% H202 to a quart of warm distilled water.
7. Infections
Soak any infections or cuts in 3% for five to ten minutes several times a day. Even gangrene that would not heal with any medicine has been healed by soaking in Hydrogen peroxide. Put half a bottle of hydrogen peroxide in your bath to help rid boils, fungus or other skin infections.
8. Bird Mites Infections
Patients infected by tiny mites report that hydrogen peroxide effectively kills the mites on their skins. They spray it on their skin a couple of times (with a few minutes in between the applications) with amazing results.
9. Sinus Infections
A tablespoon of 3% Hydrogen peroxide added to 1 cup of non-chlorinated water can be used as a nasal spray. Depending on the degree of sinus involvement, one will have to adjust the amount of peroxide used.
10. Wound Care
3% H2O2 is used medically for cleaning wounds, removing dead tissue, and as an oral debriding agent. Peroxide stops slow (small vessel) wound bleeding/oozing, as well.
11. Mouthwash
Many people don’t realize that hydrogen peroxide makes a very effective and inexpensive mouthwash. Use 3% H202 – add a dash of liquid chlorophyll for flavoring if desired.
12. Toothpaste
Use baking soda and add enough 3% H202 to make a paste.
13. Toothbrush
Or, just dip your brush in 3% H202 and brush. Soak your toothbrush in Hydrogen peroxide to keep them free of germs.
14. Tooth Ache Hydrogen peroxide is not a pain killer; however, as an anti-viral, antibacterial and anti-fungal agent, it is effective at treating the pathogen that is causing the infection.
15. Tooth Whitening
Having used 3% Hydrogen peroxide as a mouth wash for sometime ago, I am thrilled to note that my teeth have been beautifully and effortlessly whitened. I used to pay so much for professional whitening, those silly strips and uncomfortable trays. Live and learn.
NOTE: Do not swallow any peroxide. When the peroxide rinse is done, be sure to rinse out your mouth with water.
16. Hair Lightening
Peroxide is a bleaching agent and is used for lightened hair. Dilute 3% Hydrogen peroxide with water (50 / 50) and spray the solution on your wet hair after a shower and comb it through. You will not have the peroxide burnt blonde hair like the hair dye packages, but more natural highlights if your hair is a light brown, faddish, or dirty blonde. It also lightens gradually so it’s not a drastic change.
17. Contact Lenses
Hydrogen peroxide is used as a disinfectant in CIBA Vision’s Clear Care no rub contact lens cleaning solution, due to its ability to break down the proteins that build up on the lense from the eye’s immune response, resulting in increased comfort for those with sensitive eyes.
Sanitizing / Disinfectant / Cleaning 18. Straight or Diluted Hydrogen Perioxide
Clean your counters and table tops with hydrogen peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe, or spray it on the counters. Use hydrogen peroxide to clean glass and mirrors with no smearing.
Keep a spray bottle of 3% (straight) to disinfect the interior of the refrigerator and kids’ school lunch boxes.
19. In the Dishwasher
Add 2 oz. of 3% Hydrogen peroxide to your regular washing formula.
Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of 3% Hydrogen peroxide and water and keep it in every bathroom to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour or spray hydrogen peroxide (and then vinegar) on it to kill salmonella and other bacteria.
I use peroxide to clean my mirrors with, there is no smearing.
Combination of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide make a cheap, effective and non-toxic disinfectant agent and is said to be more effective at killing pathogens than bleach. As it is non-toxic, you can use it to disinfect fruits and vegetables, as well as pet toys, equipment and cages. In tests run at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, pairing Vinegar and Hydrogen Peroxide mists, kills virtually all Salmonella, Shigella, or E. coli bacteria on heavily contaminated food and surfaces.
Directions You need TWO spray bottles. DO NOT MIX the solutions together. Put straight vinegar in one and straight Hydrogen peroxide in the other spray bottle.
NOTE: Light destroys peroxide rather quickly. It’s best to leave it in its original bottle and screw in a spray head.
DO NOT DILUTE THEM.
Remember for any sanitizer to work properly, the surface has to be clean before you use it.
20. Mold
Clean with Hydrogen peroxide when your house becomes a biohazard after its invaded by toxic mold, such as those with water damage.
21. Humidifiers/Steamers
Use 1 pint 3% Hydrogen peroxide to 1 gallon of water.
22. Laundry / Stain Removing
Stain Remover
3% Hydrogen peroxide is the best stain lifter if used fairly soon – although blood stains as old as 2 days have been successfully lifted with Hydrogen Peroxide.
23. Washing/Laundry
You can also add a cup of hydrogen peroxide instead of bleach to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them. If there is blood on clothing, pour directly on the soiled spot. Let it sit for a minute, then rub it and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.
Peroxide is a perfect alternate solution to keep those clothes white. Also, when chlorinating clothes, they tend to wear out faster – peroxide won’t do that.
Food Preparation
24. Vegetable Soak
Use as a vegetable wash or soak to kill bacteria and neutralize chemicals. Add 1/4 cup 3% H202 to a full sink of cold water. Soak light skinned (light lettuce) 20 minutes, thicker skinned (like cucumbers) 30 minutes. Drain, dry and refrigerate. Prolongs freshness.
25. Meat Sanitizing
You can also use it to rinse off your meat before cooking.
26. Leftover tossed salad
Spray with a solution of 1/2 cup water and 1 Tbsp. 5%. Drain, cover and refrigerate.
27. Marinade
Place meat, fish or poultry in a casserole (avoid using aluminium pans). Cover with a dilute solution of equal parts of water and 3% H202. Place loosely covered in refrigerator for 1/2 hour. Rinse and cook.
28. Sprouting Seeds
Add 1 ounce 3% Hydrogen peroxide to 1 pint of water and soak the seeds overnight. Add the same amount of hydrogen peroxide each time you rinse the seeds.
READ FULL ARTICLE HERE:
http://wakeup-world.com/2012/07/09/27-amazing-benefits-and-uses-for-hydrogen-peroxide/

March 6, 2013 by Zombease - Forever Food: Miracle Munchables That Never Spoil

Posted on March 6, 2013 by Zombease
We’ve all heard of the amazingly long-term shelf life of most canned or dried goods when stored properly, but even these will eventually lose their nutritional value and spoil… though it may not be for 5+ years or longer. What a lot of people don’t realize is that a handful of foods/sauces actually boast a shelf life of forever. These 16 shelf stable staples are enough to get you through just about any food shortage or emergency situation you may find yourself in, including a Zombie outbreak or attack.

16 Foods That Last Forever: Just like anything, these foods will only last forever when properly stored and cared for. That means keeping them in well sealed containers stored in cool dry places whenever possible, as well as keeping up routine inspection and rotation. Always supplement meals with fresh and varied ingredients whenever possible, a well-rounded healthy diet is extremely important for truly long-term survival.

Cornstarch – This gluten free forever food is most commonly used as a thickening agents for sauces, stews, and syrups, but it can do a whole lot more than that. Cornstarch is great for treating blood stains, detangling and cleaning hair, soothing rashes and sunburns, and it can even be eaten straight out of the box for a kick of starch when needed.

Corn Syrup - One of the most common substitutes for sugar, corn syrup is used in everything from baked goods to canned foods, candy, soft drinks, and more. Dried Beans – If left properly sealed and stored in a cool dry place, dried beans will never spoil.

Dried Pasta - Kept free of moisture and insects, dried pasta will last you more than a lifetime… unless you eat it all of course.

Extracts - All liquor based extracts like vanilla, orange, almond, mint, etc. last a lifetime or longer… as long as you get the real stuff and not the cheap “flavored” kind. Useful in beverages, baking, and even as a mild deodorant, extracts are great to have on hand.

Hard Liquor - The uses for this valuable staple go beyond the occasional escape from reality or use for celebration during times of duress, it’s also a highly valuable commodity for barter and even medical treatment and sterilization in some cases. Shelf stable even after being opened, hard liquor will be there as long as you need it to, and as long as you can resist downing a whole bottle at a time.

Hardtack – A simple mixture of flour and water, forming a hard dense cracker that can literally last for decades, hardtack has been used the world over as a dietary staple and supplement during times of disaster and war. While it might not be the most flavorful food, hardtack can keep you going when times get rough.

Herbs and Spices - Everything from garlic powder to cumin, basil, oregano, black pepper, cinnamon, mustard seed and more, will last you well into twilight ages of the world… Low-quality herbs and spices often come with microscopic mold/mildew contamination that can lead to spoilage (not to mentioned illness) over time.

Instant Coffee - Not everyone needs a boost to the system all the time, but a little coffee can go a long way to making a bad situation a little more bearable. Raw Honey - This eternally shelf-stable delicacy is one of the best survival foods to have around. Literally lasting forever, honey crystallizes as it ages but never spoils. )

Salt – The only exception to this rule is with seasoned salts. These often contain ingredients that spoil within a year or so. Soy Sauce - Stored in a well sealed container and left unopened, soy sauce will last forever.

Sugar - Over time both white and brown sugars will clump together and harden, no matter how you store them, but that doesn’t mean they’ve spoiled. In fact, just like honey, this cane-based sweetener and ingredient for many baked goods has a literal shelf life of forever, and can even be applied medically. (see also: Sugar Antiseptics)

Uncooked White Rice - Unlike naturally oily brown rice, uncooked white rice can last forever as long as you keep it away from moisture and invasive critters like moths and other small insects.

White Distilled Vinegar - Found in most stores and even some quick-stops, this highly versatile Forever Food isn’t just great for pickling, canning, sauces and preservation, it’s a powerful cleaning agent, washing liquid and deodorizer as well. Stored in a cool cry place, a gallon of this can go a long way.

Wine - When properly produced and stored wine only gets better with age, and that makes it a highly valuable resource for barter and survival.

Read More Here:
http://zombease.com/2013/03/06/forever-food-miracle-munchables-that-never-spoil/

20 Items For Your Preparedness List - 14 Survival Tools for Your Bug Out Bag

# There’s many survival prep items that can stored ahead of time, for your use during and after a survival, emergency, or disaster situation, or even SHTF situation. Here are 20 items or categories you should take advantage and stock up on. Also, this list is intended to be fun, and to help get you thinking outside-the-box about your personal prepping needs. Please, feel free to comment below with any other items you may think of, so that over time we can continue to make this list grow.
1.) A stapler with plenty of staples and/or paper clips to seal off small items and fastening paper such as a package of survival seeds.
2.) Paracord, fishing line, and/or string. There are many uses you can use with any string type item.
3.) Toilet Paper, and other toiletries such as feminine hygiene products, diapers (for babies) and, etc. These should be mass stored if possible.
4.) Shovels. All sizes from small garden type to those used for digging. Very important to have after a disaster.
5.) Paper to write on.
6.)Pens and Pencils, so you can write on the paper.
7.) Rubber bands and hair bands. Used to keep items organized and from flying apart.
8.) Duct Tape and any other kinds. There are many things you can use duct tape for
9.) Sewing Kits. This one should be self explanatory lol.
10.) Matches, lighters, and fire starters. Faster and easier to help start a fire.
11.) Salt. It has many uses, especially for medicinal purposes.
12.) Candles, and flashlights. Need light don’t you?
13.) Manual Can Opener. Without one of these, have fun trying to open up all that canned food.
14.) Hammers, screwdrivers, saws, axes, utility knives, scissors.
15.) 5-Gallon Gas Cans. These can be used for gas or other fuels, and water collecting, just make sure there was no gas in the can before you collect water with it.
16.) Magnifying Glass. These can be used to help start a fire.
17.) First Aid Kit. Most items such as bandages, gauze, tweezers, nail clippers, scissors, wrapping tape, etc. can be stored without rotating. Keep more first aid supplies than you think, because they can get used up very quickly (extra gauze – 4×4′s, 2×2′s for changing dressings).
18.) Newspaper. Use it for tinder when building a fire.
19.) Tarp. Tarps can be used for multiple things, such as shelter, and water collecting.
20.) Hand Crank Radio. Instead of having to waste batteries for power, just crank the radio a couple of times, and you can stay informed on any updates and whatnot, via the radio. Navigation- GPS is great, but eventually all batteries die. Have a map and compass as back up… If you can’t get newspaper, collect dryer lint. It can be condensed down to almost nothing and ignites in a heartbeat.
Along with cordage, I would recommend small gauge wire. It can be use like cordage and also is better for setting Snares. Also it could be used to make loops for storage containers and signal disc. I like the 5-gallon buckets. They can be used for all sorts of things… Knowledge may not be an actual item, but learn how to use manual tools instead of battery operated. So many people have gotten used to using electric drills/ saws and such, when there is no way to charge those items manual tools will be your only choice. Manual tools, there’s your item.

Three Things For Your Bug Out Bag

A lot of the comments concerning the individual Bug Out Bags are great. I do have one concern about most; they are talking going as light as possible on the Bug Out Bag, but then list a lot of gear. I have a lot of gear and carry more than my fair share when doing something. The rule we use is, “Mission Dictates”; which is why I really like the new MOLLE system of pouches and gear. I am military, so most of my serious gear issues deal with more of a combative survival situation, but I grew up in the woods, so hunting, fishing and camping were obvious past times. One of the first “survival myths” that needs to be addressed and eliminated, IMHO, is the equation that web gear and assault pack constitute a 3 day load out, a ruck gives you 7 days and a duffle bag gives a 14 day load. This equation, for lack of a better word, was developed on the military logistical model and incorporates resupply in the formula. If a true disaster or emergency happens; resupply may be a pipe dream. Your safe zone will be a supply point/cache, but you will not have the logistical support the military has available.
Here are 3 items I see as extremely vital to reduce weight and yet keep you prepared to meet many obstacles that you will face in a disaster. First is the E-tool (entrenching tool) or a digging tool. I wouldn’t leave home without one if possible. I prefer the Russian Spetsnaz e-tool to the American trifold version, but that is a personal preference. The Spetsnaz has a square blade and straight wooden handle which gives it better ability as a weapon if the need arises. Normally one edge is sharpened and can be used as a make shift axe. There are known cases of enemy combatants losing their head, literally, from an E-tool encounter. I carry stainless steel bowls in a butt pack on my MOLLE vest, as they are multi function and reduce weight. I can eat from a bowl, cook, and dig if need be and instead of packing 3 things to accomplish these tasks, I need only one. My E-tool is attached to my ruck, which is vehicle and/or home secured. My MOLLE vest is what most call my GHB (Get Home Bag) I suppose, but I can survive with just its contents for as long as necessary. The E-tool serves as a weapon, will help secure food by digging roots or bait for fishing, can be used as a medium usage pry bar, hatchet, machete, and serves to further personal hygiene. For those who read and follow the Bible, it was even told to carry a spade with you and bury your excrement. I will not quote verse, just give the gist.
In a survival situation this has dual purpose;
1) you keep insects and the stench down,
2) if hiding, you do not want to leave any tell all sign that someone inhabits the area. Anyone who hunts knows to watch for scat to locate the prey. I carry the military poncho(s) for my shelter, as well as weather gear. I can create a few different shelters with a poncho and by adding natural vegetation; it becomes a more acceptable inclement weather shelter. I personally carry 2 ponchos, as they are extremely light weight and very useful. A single can be used to form a good lean to, 2 make a tent, or one as a lean to and the second as a ground cloth. The versatility and combinations are only hindered by your imagination. They fit well in a “SAW mag pouch” or even a triple mag pouch for the M16 if folded or rolled tight. This will keep one with you at all times. Again, 1 item, several uses, from weather protection, shelter, bivy sack, and improvised stretcher. I am also a firm believer in the nets. I carry the IMPs nets personally, but there are several options for these. They become a hammock to sleep off the ground in a swamp or marsh, or even in snake infested areas. The nets are a superb fishing tool but can also be used to trap small animals in an emergency. For fishing with the net, you have a couple options which most are aware of, so bear with me. You can attach improvised weights and by attaching 550 cord, you have a small casting net or you can employ them across a stream or creek and “drive” the fish into the net.
If you must cross a swamp or any wetland, a hammock will save precious time and even more importantly energy than constructing a sleeping platform. This will allow you to get much needed sleep and be able to keep you and your gear dry. You can also use the net to form an improvised “bear bag”, thus keeping food stuffs out of reach of scavengers or gear in an innocuous cache which will require less time to prepare and retrieve than burying it if the need arises to stash your main ruck and move quickly but not completely abandon everything “willingly”. Remember, most people, unless threatened or trained, do not look up as much as they look to the sides, forward or down (where they may discover the disturbed earth where you dug the pit to cache your goods). Nets can also be used to improvise a backpack or carry-all. They are actually very useful in a maritime environment where the items you scavenge or food you gather is wet and will soak your normal pack. You can pre-make 550 cord loops that a carabineer can be clipped to and then attached to your vest, H-harness, or a ALICE pack frame. They can also be used for camouflage and the making of a ghillie suit. Another single object, with multiple functions, and weighs less than 1 pound. I can carry everything I need for my BOB on my MOLLE vest and by adding a small backpack, can greatly enhance my abilities and capabilities depending on the situation. My true fast exit is just my MOLLE vest and that will get me to the rest of my gear.
I also have children (4 ages 5-20), so setting up a BOB for them, weight is an even a greater consideration, without giving up the necessary gear they will need. Forget creature comforts and stick with gear that works and will produce. I suggest looking at your survival kit like a business investment and determine the ROI (Return On Investment) for anything and everything being carried. Books, except the possible pocket field manual, games and other perks need to be pre-staged at your BOL (Bug Out Location), as they are extra weight, which burns energy, which reduces the chance of survival in a drawn out situation or crisis. These are just a few things I feel are extremely important with their multiple uses and ROI. I carry more than just this, but I ensure my kids have at least this much.
I have E-tools that are about 1/3 the normal size and even my 3 year old daughter can carry it easily. They aren’t the sturdiest, but they have worked for small digging chores thus far during family outdoor excursions. I am military, US Army Reserves, and have 2 years previous experience in SAR (Search and Rescue) as a civilian working with the USAF. My gear reflects the combative arena of survival at most times because that is where my needs normally arise. Even deployed, with the military logistical support in place, OIF 02/07-05/08,
I carried pemmican and chia seeds as my survival food. Chia seeds will provide all the nutrients a body needs for a day in a tablespoonful. Some of the best warriors of guerrilla tactics, the Apache, utilized this light weight, nutritious staple for the war trail. They will also help your body retain water and be absorbed slowly thus adding to your survival chances because of dehydration. Pemmican (true Pemmican and not store bought jerky) is light weight, high in protein and will “keep” for years (some was found to be dated over 500 years old and still edible. It was stored in a rabbit stomach pouch) and is “trail food”. Trail food is what you can eat while moving easily. In the military, you are taught to eat your entrée first, then the sides and save the snacks or other foods that can be eaten while walking (M&Ms, Skittles, bread, crackers, combos, etc). This will ensure you get some food in case of an attack or other reason for having to move out suddenly and thus saving food that you can eat while marching in case you need to recoup some of the calories you have burned. The same should be thought of when packing your BOB and MOLLE. Carry what you can eat while on the move on your vest and stow a couple primary meals in your pack.
In summary, the military load bearing system is set up in a “3 day (web gear), 5-7 day (rucksack), and 14 day (duffle bag/footlocker)” mentality; which seems to be how others seem to think of their packing from previous tours of duty or old military field manuals. This system is based and geared towards a normal and steady logistical system in place. There was palpable panic at the base I was based out of in Iraq because supply lines were interrupted and all they had was a 3 day supply of MREs and was serving hot dogs for all meals in the DFAC (Dining Facility/chow hall). In a true survival situation, you have no resupply being brought in; unless you are hunting, fishing, gardening, gathering or bartering for goods or trust in FEMA to “save you”. I can live off my web gear, which the military views as a 3 day set up, for 2+ weeks (longer if need be but plan is for 2 weeks), providing I do not have a serious firefight to expend ammo (which is another topic). I figure my rucksack will keep me going for a month. My duffel/footlocker is my home or base camp position, which gives me everything I will have without bartering, hunting, fishing, growing or gathering, for the duration of my time. I am NO expert, nor a complete survivalist, but feel some things are being made more difficult than they need to be. This is just my humble opinion, but I have seen so many in the “survival/preparedness” movement use the acronym K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Stupid), then they have a list that looks like a family camping trip to the “wilds” of an amusement park.
Regulator5 US Army Vet. I'm from the Lower Great Lakes area and spent a good deal of my youth in South Florida along the Sun Coast. My hobbies are hunting, trapping, fishing, camping, hiking, SCUBA, history, and just being with family. I also study Native American Culture and implement their culture into my plans. History has provided the tools and skills to survive an emergency, all we must do is learn from it. We have the benefit of using modern materials to make gear lighter, more durable and safer. All disaster plans you create, should include plans to rebuild after the event. We survive to exist, we rebuild to LIVE. Remember the Rules of 3; core temp- shelter, clothing, fire; water-water filter, purification tablets, stainless water bottle or canteens; food- ability to gather, prepare, dehydrated, MRE, snacks, etc. IMO, a good flashlight, headlamp with red night navigation LEDs, full tang, fixed blade knife, folding knife, multi-tool, firesteel, waterproof matches, magnifying glass/fire lens, snares (learn to use properly), rat traps (learn to use properly), 110 body grips (if know how to use properly and weight can be carried), field guide to edible plants, compass, map, hatchet, first aid kit (as extensive as your skills and knowledge allow), fishing kit, hygeine products. This is in no way an all inclusive list and each person’s abilities, skills, and location will greatly effect what needs to be carried. I will work on a better list and get it published as well. It will be a general purpose, not specific items.
Paul, Money is the biggest obstacle to many I think. My supplies have built over time. One thing alot of people do not realize is how much they already have. It may not be the newest sleeping bag, but you probably already have blankets. Add a couple heavy duty garbage bags and you actually have a relatively waterproof bivy sack that the blankets can insulate. A paring knife doesn’t come with a sheath but one can easily be fashioned from carboard and ducttape to protect your pack and they will clean fish and small game very nicely. A butcher knife can work on processing large game. There are alot of other items that can be made at home relatively easily and cheaply with just some time devoted, candles for warmth and light, small pouches from scrap blankets or other material, etc.
This was pretty helpful and just curious what do u guys think of have a gas mask tucked away? If you have one and or can get one I see valid reasons to have it. With the threat of a terrorist attack, many thugs having CS gas, etc anything you can have that will help you is a benefit. Ensure the mask fits correctly and also ensure you get filters that have not expired. Many you find in surplus stores are there for a reason. Also, look at getting the test kits and other CBRNE items/gear as well, as you can afford it. Like everything else in your kit, once the list is made, prioritize it according to your most likely threat and purchase in order to ensure you are covered for the most likely to the least likely. Great idea.
My solution for the weight issue is to have 2 identical stashes in two seperate locations buried in 4 20 liter drums. Tools are oiled, wrapped in cling film and buried as well. I am part of a group who will work together and share resources. http://guideforpreppingandsurviving.com/20-items-for-your-preparedness-list/
http://guideforpreppingandsurviving.com/three-things-for-your-bug-out-bag/


14 Simple But Essential Survival Tools for Your Bug Out Bag

Most people new to the survival and prepping community often face one of two challenges in building their first bug out bag; they either try to pack far too much equipment and end up with a bag they can’t carry, or they become so overwhelmed with the task that they don’t build one at all. Opinions differ on what belongs in a bug out bag, but ultimately, each bag is as individualized as the person carrying it because each person has different needs. There are several tools that are necessary for every bug out bag, leaving plenty of space for any individualized equipment, supplies, and medicine that you may need. The most obvious thing needed for a bug out bag is, of course, a pack. Many will recommend a heavy-duty military-style backpack, and while this thinking has merit, it also has drawbacks. In a true SHTF scenario, who do you think is going to draw more unwanted attention from two-legged predators and/or over-zealous law enforcement personnel; the guy with an ALICE pack or the guy with a colorful civilian backpack? Personally, I have both styles, but in most cases, the civilian models will be more appropriate. The key is selecting a reliable manufacturer, and you can’t go wrong with packs from Northface. I suggest selecting an average-sized pack—an extremely large pack is going to make you a target because it’s obvious that you are well-equipped. Also, the larger the pack, the more gear you’ll tend to carry—unless you are in excellent physical condition and accustomed to hiking with a heavy pack, you’ll quickly wear yourself out. Nearly everyone who talks about survival usually starts off talking about a firearm for self-defense. Look, I am 100% pro-2nd amendment and believe that almost every adult should be armed at all times, but the fact of the matter is that you’re far more likely to encounter a first aid situation than a self-defense situation. Handling that requires first aid knowledge and supplies. Even with formal first aid training, I’ve found it far easier to buy a prepackaged ">first aid kit; it might cost a few dollars more, but the time you save allows you to focus on other more important things than pinching pennies. There are nearly unlimited used for 550 cord (AKA—Paracord), the same cordage used to attach a parachutist to their parachute. A single cord has a tensile strength of 550 pounds (I know, who would have guessed, right?) and consists of a heavy outer sheath surrounding seven two-ply yarns. You can use this as-is for securing gear, suspending an improvised shelter, making a rifle sling, and anything else that requires strong cordage, or you can separate the individual strands to sew torn clothing and/or gear, improvise fishing line, create a snare, and anything that requires thinner cordage. 550 cord is lightweight, inexpensive, and takes up little space in your bag. An easy way to prevent hypothermia is to wrap up in a mylar blanket; it’s lightweight and has multiple uses. It keeps you warm in all but the most extreme environments, can be used to as an improvised shelter, can reflect heat and sun, can be used as a signaling device, or even to build a solar still. I recommend the ones manufactured by SOL because they are thicker than most and the backside is high-visibility orange. Your bug out bag should contain at least two, because Mylar is easily torn and melted. If you’re carrying gear for multiple people, such as small children, pack at least two per person. Even if you’re accustomed to working in the dark, a flashlight can come in very handy but a headlamp is better because it frees your hands while providing plenty of illumination. Most models these days use ultra-bright LEDs which offer superior battery life and produce no heat. One of the biggest advantages of a headlamp over a hand-held flashlight is that the area you’re looking at is always illuminated, reducing your chances of tripping over obstacles or stepping unto holes at night. As with the Mylar blankets, if you’re carrying gear for multiple people, pack one headlamp per person. Packing an extra set or two of batteries is a good idea too. I carry a small clip-on knife every day, but sometimes you need more than a blade, such a screwdriver, can opener, or pliers, so I pack a Leatherman in my bug out bag. It’s small, lightweight, and has multiple uses—I can’t tell you how often this single tool came in handy in the field during my time in the Marine Corps. And today’s Leatherman tools are built far better than in the past, so they stand up to serious abuse and even come with a 25–year warranty. It’s one hell of a product at a great price with superior customer service—you can get knock-offs for a little cheaper but I wouldn’t risk it. Carrying water sucks; it’s heavy, takes up a lot of space, and sloshes around unless your container is completely full. That’s why I prefer the ability to filter water on the go. Products like the Seychelle Straw help me keep my pack light because I can simply filter any water I find, eliminating the need to haul it around. I’ve looked at various systems, and this is by far the best I’ve found yet. It removes 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, contaminants and pollutants found in drinking water, while most competing filters are unable to remove viruses and pollutants, such as gasoline and other hazardous chemicals. And if you really want to cover all your bases, they even offer a version that filters radiological contaminates, but that’s overkill in my opinion. Circumstances may not permit you to sit around casually sucking water from a stream, so a Nalgene bottle or two is the perfect companion to your Seychelle straw because you can collect 32–ounces (1 quart) per bottle and drink from them through your filter straw on the go. Nalgene is one of the most reliable brands of water bottles available today; they are BPA-free, impact-resistant, and can be microwaved and frozen with no damage. They’re also sized perfectly to fit the outside pockets of most civilian backpacks. I recommend always selecting the wide-mouth models because it allows you to break up the ice that forms at the neck. You can’t do this with a canteen or narrow-mouth bottle. The ability to start a fire can be the difference between life and death. I advise everyone to have multiple means to do so, but a strike fire starter is one of the best options, because it lasts nearly forever, is almost impossible to break, and works even when wet. I produced a video showing a similar product (different manufacturer) being used to ignite a fire starting gel—but it can be used just as easily to ignite any source of tinder. When you run the scraper, a knife blade, or other metal object along the ferrocerium rod, it produces a shower of hot (5,432° F) sparks that rain down on your tinder. Trapping is a great way to efficiently gather protein and calorie rich food without attracting unwanted attention or expending precious energy. All it requires is a few snares and some basic trapping knowledge. If you live in a suitable area, I also recommend supplement your trapping kit with a fishing kit. This will give you two automated means of catching food while you focus on other tasks. As with any other survival skill, this requires first-hand experience, so practice in the field before your life depends on it. But be sure to check with your local laws and regulation first. Your knife and other edged tools will inevitably become dull over time. At home it’s easy to grab another one out of the drawer, but in the field or on the move you won’t have that option, so it’s critical that you know how to properly sharpen them. Using a wet stonewet stone is far from rocket science, but it is more complex than just rubbing your blade across it a few times. Everyone should own a quality wet stone; ideally, a set of wet stones because there are varying grades of abrasiveness and you need to work your way from coarse to fine for an ideal edge. This ensures a long life for your edged tools. Also, while it may seem counter-intuitive, a sharp blade is safer than a dull one because it requires less effort to use properly. Trapping, fishing, and even foraging are valuable skills, but they take time and energy. Ripping open prepackaged food, however, takes almost no time or effort. Depending on the type of food, it’s either ready to eat immediately as in the case of MREs, or requires little more than reconstituting with water, as is the case with freeze-dried foods. Rotate your emergency food to ensure it doesn’t go out of date, and only buy what you actually enjoy eating. A common mistake people make is to buy cheap food they don’t enjoy, thinking they’ll eat it in an emergency–they won’t. Whether you’re stuck in the desolate Alaskan wilderness, a mosquito-infested Florida swamp, or your own home, with the roof recently torn off by a hurricane, something about a warm meal in your belly always makes you feel a little better. This of course requires cookware. At home, I love using my big, heavy cast iron skillets, but I’m sure as hell not hauling them around in my pack. Lightweight aluminum is ideal, preferably anodized so your food doesn’t stick to it. A nested cook set gives you multiple options depending on what you’re cooking, while not taking up any extra space than a single pot. It’s a lot easier to cook if you have a stove. I avoid the type that use compressed fuel like propane because they can easily break, and the fuel cans take up valuable space, add weight, and once they run out, your stove becomes nothing more than dead weight. They are also more expensive, especially over their lifetime. I prefer the type of stoves that use naturally available fuel, such as wood, animal dung, and even dried grass. They are lighter, reliable, compact, and rather than packing and carrying fuel, you can collect it as needed. The construction of your stove is important; avoid aluminum and instead opt for heavy-duty steel or titanium. Excellent items. I have a life straw as well as water bottles that filter the water. I also keep with mine Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets in the event I have to treat the water. Without water everything else is irrelevant. As for fire, I always have handy, 5 different ways to start a fire. Waterproof matches, flint, magnesium, even a magnifying glass, lighters etc. You are right, having a fire could be the difference between life and death.