Preparedness
Security Secrets To Safeguard Your Home and Family

While we’d like to think of our homes as sanctuaries removed from societal dangers, the reality is quite different. The U.S. Department of Justice highlights that “Property crime is actually more likely in rural areas than suburban areas.” This increased risk is often due to the remoteness and slower police response times associated with rural living.
To safeguard your property and family, proactive measures are essential. One of the most straightforward and effective deterrents is having a dog. The presence of a dog, whether large or small, can discourage potential intruders. Sometimes, even a “Beware of Dog” sign can be enough to make a burglar think twice.
Lighting is another crucial element of homestead security. Motion-activated lights positioned near entryways and pathways can startle intruders and animal predators alike, providing protection for both your family and your livestock.
Investing in a security system is a wise choice for any homesteader. These systems come in various price ranges, catering to different needs and budgets. For those with limited funds or unreliable internet, battery-operated door and window alarms offer a practical alternative. Video surveillance, too, acts as both a deterrent and a means of gathering evidence should an intruder make their way onto your property.
Perimeter fencing is indispensable. It serves as a physical barrier, keeping animals in and unwanted visitors out. To enhance its effectiveness, ensure gates are lockable. A gate at the end of your driveway requiring visitors to buzz in can add an extra layer of protection.
In a charming anecdote from the Daily Yonder, Donna Kallner recounts, “[Our security system] was never quite as effective as my grandparents’ rural security system: Their farm was at the end of a gravel lane that had to be more than a half-mile long. About halfway down it, there was a big tree where a flock of guinea fowl perched. Any time a vehicle got that far those birds kicked up a ruckus.” While not everyone has guinea fowl, a driveway alarm with wireless monitoring can serve a similar purpose by alerting you to approaching visitors.
Complacency can lead to security oversights. It’s tempting to leave keys in tractors or garages, but this can make expensive equipment easy targets for theft. Ensuring your garage doors are secure is a worthwhile investment, as it prevents costly replacement of stolen items.
A safe is a must-have for any homestead, particularly a fireproof one for safeguarding important documents and valuables. To enhance door security, consider additional measures like deadbolts or door chain stoppers, offering extra time to react in case of an intrusion.
Strategic planting can also bolster security. Thorny plants around the perimeter and spiky bushes beneath windows create natural barriers that deter intruders. Additionally, using pea gravel on walkways can alert you to movement with its distinctive crunch underfoot.
Clear signage is vital, especially in areas frequented by hunters. Posting property markers and signs indicating video surveillance can discourage trespassers. Maintaining an appearance of occupancy is another effective strategy. Keeping a vehicle in the driveway, setting lights on timers, and ensuring the lawn is mowed can all suggest that someone is home.
Finally, fostering a good relationship with neighbors can be invaluable. They can help maintain your property’s appearance when you’re away and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
Incorporating these strategies into your homestead security plan can make a significant difference in protecting your property and loved ones.
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Preparedness
Essential OTC Medications Every Prepared Household Needs

When preparing for emergencies, having a well-stocked home pharmacy is as crucial as any other survival gear. While prescription medications are essential, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can address a wide range of common ailments and should be part of your preparedness plan. Here’s a guide to stocking your home pharmacy with essential OTC medications.
First, evaluate the specific health needs of your household. Consider whether any family members have allergies to medications, require infant or child formulations, or have chronic conditions that necessitate special care. It’s also important to think about seasonal allergies and pain management needs. Your stock should cater to everyday requirements, not just emergencies.
Once you’ve assessed your family’s needs, ensure that your medications are stored correctly. “Generally, medication will store best in a cool, dry, dark location in the original unopened packaging.” The bathroom medicine cabinet is not ideal due to heat and humidity, and all medications should be stored out of children’s reach.
Safety is another consideration. With the prevalence of drug addiction, it’s wise to store prescription medications in a locked safe or well-hidden location to protect both the medications and those who might misuse them.
It’s crucial to keep your medications fresh, but understanding the actual shelf life can be important in a crisis. “You should expect a gradual loss in potency over time for OTC medication,” but if the appearance and color of the pills remain unchanged, they are likely safe to use. Be aware that liquid preparations typically have a shorter shelf life than tablets and capsules.
For pain relief, consider keeping aspirin, Tylenol, Aleve, Advil, and Excedrin on hand. Each of these medications targets different types of pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, and inflammation. Orajel is useful for dental pain, while Midol and AZO Urinary Pain Relief can address specific needs like menstrual discomfort and urinary tract pain.
For allergy relief, options include Allegra, Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec. Each works differently, so it’s important to find out which is most effective for you. Cold and flu symptoms can be managed with Dayquil, Nyquil, Mucinex DM, and Robitussin, among others.
Digestive issues are another concern during emergencies. Alka-Seltzer, Dulcolax, Imodium, Milk of Magnesia, and Gas-X can help manage symptoms ranging from indigestion to constipation and diarrhea.
For skin issues, Aspercreme, Cortizone 10, Lotrimin, and Technu are useful for treating conditions like itching, burns, and fungal infections. Triple Antibiotic Ointment is essential for preventing infections in minor cuts and wounds.
Additional useful items include activated charcoal for poison absorption, Dramamine for nausea, Epsom salt for muscle relief, and potassium iodide tablets for radiation emergencies. Don’t forget electrolytes for hydration, QuikClot for bleeding, and multivitamins to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
Remember, this information is not a substitute for medical advice. “I encourage you to do your own research and talk to your doctor to make sure you’re not allergic to any of these medications and to make sure they won’t interfere with any other medications you’re taking.” Your home pharmacy should be tailored to your family’s unique needs, ensuring you are prepared for whatever comes your way.
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Preparedness
Choosing the Right Generator for Ultimate Preparedness

In the realm of disaster preparedness, having a reliable power source can make a world of difference. Whether you opt for a solar or fuel generator, each has its unique advantages and challenges.
Solar generators, for instance, are celebrated for their silent operation. This means you can rest easy at night while your portable power station quietly supplies energy. Additionally, these generators are generally lighter than their gas-powered counterparts, with the main component being a battery. This makes them more manageable in terms of transport and setup.
Maintenance is another area where solar generators shine. They are known for their reliability in tough situations and require minimal upkeep. Over time, they prove to be cost-effective as they don’t require fuel, saving you money in the long run. However, the power output of solar generators isn’t as consistent as gas generators. Charging times can be lengthy, particularly when the sun is obscured by smoke or clouds.
On the other hand, gas generators boast consistent power output. As long as you have fuel, they will keep running, regardless of weather conditions, except in extreme cold when fuel might gel. These generators can power a wide range of equipment, making them versatile for home or travel use.
However, gas generators can be quite noisy, potentially attracting unwanted attention. They also come with a host of parts that require regular maintenance to prevent failure. This upkeep, coupled with fuel costs, can add up over time, making them a more expensive option.
When choosing between solar and gas generators, understanding their ratings is crucial. For gas generators, the focus is on their Wattage (W) rating, often expressed in Kilowatts (kW). It’s important to ensure the generator can handle the initial surge of power required by some devices. For instance, a dishwasher might run at 1200W but need 3000W to start.
Solar generators, in contrast, are rated by Amp hour (Ah), which measures how much electricity can flow from the battery over a period, typically 20 hours. Calculating the total Amps needed involves adding up the Amp rating of all devices you plan to run simultaneously.
For those with modest power needs, such as charging a laptop or phone, a full-scale generator might be unnecessary. Alternatives like solar power banks or combo solar/hand-cranked radios can provide sufficient energy while remaining portable and easy to use.
Ultimately, the choice between solar and fuel generators depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Each type offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks, but both can provide essential power when you need it most.
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Preparedness
Master Home Defense Without Breaking the Bank

Creating a secure home environment doesn’t require an extravagant budget or a fortress-like structure. For most of us, enhancing home security involves strategic planning and implementing multiple layers of defense. These layers are designed to deter or delay potential threats, providing crucial moments to respond effectively.
The first line of defense starts with remote surveillance. This could involve radio communication with individuals outside your immediate vicinity or utilizing drones to monitor the area. Community awareness is also vital. Building strong relationships with neighbors and understanding who might pose a potential threat adds an additional protective layer.
Early warning systems, such as driveway sensors, can alert you to approaching threats. These sensors can be strategically placed to provide advance notice, especially in a long driveway scenario. However, in extreme situations such as a “the-end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it” (TEOTWAWKI) event, extending these systems to public roads might be necessary.
Signage plays a psychological role in deterring intruders. Warning signs about surveillance systems or guard animals, whether you have them or not, can make potential intruders think twice. Motion sensor lights are another effective deterrent, illuminating the area when movement is detected, which can discourage both human and animal intruders.
Fences and obstacles are practical barriers. They should be designed to maintain visibility while preventing easy access. “Thorny shrubbery that does not block your line of sight is great to plant under windows to slow or stop someone from attempting to gain access there.” Additionally, strategically parked vehicles or obstacles like downed trees can block driveways or roads, hindering unauthorized entry.
A robust surveillance system and alarms are essential. Doorbell cameras allow you to monitor activity without approaching the door. Hardwired systems are more reliable than wireless ones, especially during power outages. Ensure you have a backup power supply to maintain this line of defense.
Door locks and barricades are fundamental. Reinforce doors by replacing standard screws with longer ones to enhance their strength. Installing solid doors with deadbolts in key areas like the master bedroom can further delay entry. Window films can also reduce the risk of breakage.
Guard dogs serve as both an alert system and a physical deterrent. Even small dogs can provide early warnings, while larger dogs can protect their family if trained and bonded properly.
Ultimately, you are the final line of defense. If firearms are permitted in your area, ensure you are proficient in their use and practice regularly. Train responsible household members in self-defense techniques.
In situations where you are outnumbered or outgunned, remember that retreating is a viable option. “There is no shame in retreating. If you are outnumbered and outgunned it might just be time to put your escape plan into play even if it means leaving all of your preps behind.” Prioritizing safety over possessions is crucial in such scenarios.
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Lorin
January 22, 2025 at 12:20 pm
We live out in in a rural area. One night, walking our puppy, I heard music suddenly playing from a cell phone on the other side of the truck, no more than 100 ft away. I was armed and made sure it was obvious. I backed into the dark garage while they ran. Turns out hey had stolen the fuel from our neighbor’s vehicles. I was fortunate they were not violent criminals and they were fortunate I showed restraint.