As we navigate through a tumultuous period marked by a resurgence of economic instability, and ongoing civil unrest, it’s becoming increasingly evident that shortages may become a regular occurrence. The vulnerability of our national supply chain to disruptions is a pressing concern.

Reflecting on recent history, particularly the shortages experienced back in March, can provide valuable insights. Some regions are currently facing sporadic shortages, with certain items missing from shelves, while others remain fully stocked, at least for the time being.

In states like Ohio, there is speculation about potential lockdowns, with only essential businesses operating and restricted movement for non-essential workers.

In areas affected by civil unrest, venturing out to grocery stores can be risky, and the situation appears to be deteriorating.

Adopting a “wait-and-see” attitude could leave you and your family without essential supplies. “The only time it is too late to start preparing is after the crisis has happened.”

To avoid this scenario, start by assessing your current stock. Identify any gaps in your supplies. Consider when you last replenished basics like toilet paper, shampoo, toothpaste, trash bags, and non-perishable foods, as well as baking essentials like oil and yeast.

If venturing to the store is a concern, explore online shopping options such as Boxed, Amazon, and Walmart. Many local stores also offer delivery or curbside pickup services.

Given the unpredictability of the current climate, now might be the ideal time to invest in long-term storage food. Companies like MyPatriotSupply, BePrepared, and Augason Farms provide options with a 20-25 year shelf life, ensuring you’re prepared for any future crises.

Water is another critical resource to consider. If your water source relies on electricity, it’s wise to stock up. The recommended amount is one gallon per person per day for drinking, excluding water for cooking or hygiene. While water storage can be cumbersome, even a minimal two-week supply is preferable to none. Ensure your water is safe to consume by boiling it or using filtration systems like the Alexapure.

Consider the potential impact of civil unrest on your neighborhood. Reflect on how your community responded to previous quarantines. If tensions were high, relocation might be a future consideration. For now, reinforce entry points to make them less vulnerable.

Taking proactive steps towards preparedness can alleviate some anxiety. “Knowing that you have food and water set aside as well as items for hygiene can take some of the worry out of the uncertain future we all face.”

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The allure of homesteading lies in its promise of a self-sufficient lifestyle, a dream many Americans cherish. However, the reality of these “Little House on the Prairie” aspirations is often dictated by the homesteading laws and restrictions in your area.

The positive news is that homesteading is permissible in every state, though the level of support varies. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that state approval doesn’t guarantee acceptance in your county, city, or neighborhood HOA. For instance, New York restricts homesteading to specific boroughs, and numerous HOAs impose limits on small livestock.

Before embarking on your homesteading journey, it’s important to pause and investigate the local laws and restrictions that will shape your experience. A fundamental understanding of homesteading is essential. As The History Channel notes, “The 1862 Homestead Act accelerated settlement of U. S. western territory by allowing any American, including freed slaves, to put in a claim for up to 160 free acres of federal land.” This act required settlers to reside on the land continuously for five years, build a home, farm the land, and make improvements.

Although the Homestead Act was repealed in 1976 with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the spirit of homesteading endures. Modern homesteaders focus on self-sufficiency, often through sustainable practices like growing their own food. Homesteading can occur in both rural and urban settings, from off-grid living on acres of land to urban beekeeping and micro gardens.

The type of homestead you can establish is largely influenced by local laws. Many states offer homestead rights through a Declaration of Homestead. Mother Earth News describes it as “a simple legal document which can help to protect your house and property in times of economic hardship.” While the specifics vary by state, the intent is to safeguard family homes from creditors.

State homestead protection laws allow property owners to declare part of their property a “homestead,” shielding it from creditors. These exemptions differ by state, often providing greater protection for rural properties due to their agricultural use. For example, Indiana allows individuals to claim up to $10,000 of their property as a homestead, with no maximum size limit, ensuring full protection from creditors.

Beyond state laws, local restrictions can significantly impact your homesteading plans. Deed restrictions, for instance, can limit what you can do with your property, such as prohibiting fences or certain animals. Zoning regulations may also restrict the sale of goods produced on your homestead, often forbidding commercial activities at residential addresses.

Building codes present another challenge. As GOKCE Capital explains, “Even if a parcel of land has no HOA or zoning restrictions, the local municipality or county may still require you to build according to their local building code.” This means obtaining permits and potentially facing limitations on building materials.

Access rights, such as easements for utility workers, must also be respected. You cannot obstruct access to essential services like gas lines or sewers. Livestock laws are another area of complexity. While state and county laws may permit raising chickens, city ordinances or HOA rules might not. Additionally, restrictions often apply to the number of animals you can keep and may require licenses for activities like stocking a pond with fish.

For those looking to sell homemade goods, understanding cottage food laws is crucial. As Countryside points out, “New cottage food laws allow the sale of items made within home kitchens, but details vary by state.” These laws typically restrict certain foods to prevent consumer harm.

Wildlife laws can also affect homesteaders, as animals like deer and raccoons may target your crops. Protections for wildlife vary, so it’s important to be aware of local regulations. Surprisingly, some areas prohibit edible gardens in front yards, so check local ordinances before planting.

Beekeeping is popular among homesteaders, even in urban areas, but it comes with its own set of regulations. Local laws may limit the number of hives you can maintain. Similarly, rainwater harvesting laws differ widely. In Texas, it’s encouraged with tax incentives, whereas in Colorado, it’s illegal.

Navigating the intricate web of homesteading laws requires careful research and planning. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, you can better realize your dream of a self-sufficient lifestyle.

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Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of bones, teeth, and muscles by regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body. Without sufficient vitamin D, individuals may face bone deformities like rickets in children or osteomalacia in adults, both of which can lead to bone pain and an increased risk of fractures.

The U.S. National Academy of Medicine suggests that most people need between 600 and 800 IU of vitamin D daily. However, the U.S. Endocrine Society advises a higher intake of 1,500 to 2,000 IU each day. While many grocery store staples such as milk, yogurt, orange juice, and cereal are fortified with vitamin D, and supplements are readily available, these options may not always be accessible. In scenarios where these resources are depleted or unavailable, understanding natural sources of vitamin D becomes essential.

Sunlight is a natural and effective way to produce vitamin D. When the skin is exposed to the sun’s rays, it initiates the production of this vital nutrient. Importantly, one does not need to tan or burn to achieve adequate vitamin D levels. “The body will make all the vitamin D it needs for a day in about half the time it takes the skin to burn.”

Several factors influence the amount of vitamin D synthesized from sun exposure. The time of day is significant, with midday being the most effective period for vitamin D production due to the sun’s position. Additionally, the amount of skin exposed plays a role; for instance, exposing the back results in more vitamin D production than just exposing the hands and face.

Geographical location is another critical factor. Individuals living closer to the equator, such as those in the southern United States, can more easily meet their vitamin D requirements through sun exposure compared to those in northern regions. This is particularly challenging during winter months when the sun’s angle is lower. “Basically people living north of the 37-degree-latitude line — roughly the imaginary line between Philadelphia and San Francisco will have a hard time meeting their vitamin D needs through sunshine alone especially in the winter months.”

While moderate sun exposure is beneficial, it is important to be cautious as prolonged exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Thus, balancing sun exposure with protective measures like sunscreen and hydration is essential.

Incorporating natural vitamin D sources into a preparedness plan is vital for both novices and seasoned preppers. Understanding how to harness sunlight effectively ensures that even in the absence of fortified foods and supplements, one can maintain adequate vitamin D levels crucial for overall health.

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