When disaster strikes, it’s often unexpected, leaving many unprepared and scrambling for essentials. One crucial aspect of preparedness is having a backup plan for your emergency supplies. Disasters have a knack for obliterating whatever stands in their way, including your meticulously gathered emergency provisions. This situation creates a dual problem: the financial burden of replacing those supplies and the immediate lack of essentials when they are most needed.

Fortunately, there’s a solution that many preppers already have in place, albeit sometimes without fully realizing its potential: the bug-out bag. This humble pack can serve as an invaluable lifeline during a shelter-in-place emergency.

A common strategy among seasoned preppers is to distribute emergency supplies throughout various locations in the home. This tactic ensures that if one area is compromised, supplies in other areas remain accessible. However, if this isn’t feasible, or if you simply haven’t had the time to implement it, a well-stocked bug-out bag kept in an easily accessible spot, like under the stairs or near the main exit, can be a lifesaver. It provides a fallback option when your primary supplies are inaccessible.

“During most major emergency events, there’s a strong chance you’ll be alone the first few days waiting for even the slimmest rescue assistance,” according to insights from disaster survivors. A bug-out bag equipped with 72 hours’ worth of food can bridge the gap until help arrives or until you can secure a more sustainable food source. While a two-week food supply is ideal, as even FEMA suggests, having three days’ worth of provisions can help you endure the immediate aftermath of a disaster.

Water is another critical component. A bug-out bag should include a 72-hour supply of water, which can sustain you until you locate a more substantial source. Moreover, if your bag includes a reliable water filter, you have a tool to stay hydrated for extended periods. With access to a basic water source, even a dirty one, you’re equipped to make it through challenging times.

In less severe situations, like short power outages or boil advisories, having a 72-hour water supply can prevent you from tapping into your long-term reserves prematurely. This foresight can save you from unnecessary stress during minor emergencies.

Power is another area where bug-out bags shine. “Lack of power is common among both” bugging out and bugging in scenarios. Therefore, it’s wise to include power sources such as batteries and solar chargers in your bag. These can keep essential devices like flashlights and chargers operational during the initial days of a disaster. A flashlight is indispensable for preventing injuries in the dark, while a charged device ensures you can maintain communication and access information.

Power outages are almost guaranteed in disasters, whether caused by earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfires, or blizzards. When the electricity fails, it could be down for days, if not longer. This is where the light sources in your bug-out bag become crucial. Having an extra flashlight or two ensures you’re prepared for any eventuality, whether a device fails, runs out of power, or additional help is needed for others.

In conclusion, while we often consider bug-out bags as tools for evacuation, their utility in shelter-in-place scenarios cannot be overstated. They provide a practical and effective backup plan, ensuring that even if your primary supplies are compromised, you have the essentials to weather the storm.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source

If you’re already familiar with the basics of canning, you’ve likely ventured into preserving jams, jellies, or perhaps even some fruits and vegetables. But have you considered the potential of canning entire meals? This technique not only maximizes your canner’s utility but also proves to be a tremendous time saver.

Canning complete meals follows a process similar to traditional canning, but with the added benefit of having ready-to-eat meals that can be stored for years. One of the significant advantages is that these meals “last five times longer than frozen foods.”

While canned meals are a fantastic addition to your pantry, it’s advisable not to rely solely on them in emergencies. A well-rounded emergency supply should include a mix of canned, freeze-dried, and dehydrated foods, as these can offer longer shelf lives and potentially better nutrient retention.

For those new to canning, it’s wise to start with simple recipes. Begin with basic, one-to-two-ingredient items to gain experience and learn from any mistakes before moving on to more complex meals, such as those involving meat.

There are two main methods for canning whole meals: using raw ingredients or pre-cooked ingredients.

When canning with raw ingredients, you prepare them as if cooking on a stove or in an oven. Stack them in jars, leaving an inch of headspace for expansion. Fill the jars with the required liquid, such as hot water or broth, and then process them in a pressure canner, which cooks the food.

A few tips can enhance your raw ingredient canning experience. Layer each ingredient separately, such as beef, onions, and carrots in a beef stew. If you choose to add herbs and spices, “make herbs and spices your top layer” to avoid issues like gumming or burning. Be cautious with strong herbs like sage or oregano, as they can become bitter over time. Sometimes, seasoning with just salt is best, allowing you to add spices when you serve the meal.

If your recipe includes potatoes, remember to peel them to avoid having root vegetable skins in your jar.

Alternatively, you can pre-cook your meals before canning. This method is ideal for dishes like chili or spaghetti sauce, which benefit from simmering to blend flavors. Similar to raw canning, leave an inch of headspace, seal the jars, and process them in a pressure canner.

Ensure there are no air bubbles in the jar by using a wooden or plastic tool to gently stir the food around the jar’s circumference.

Not all foods are suitable for canning, so be mindful of what you choose to preserve. Carefully selecting ingredients will help ensure your meals last for years.

Embark on the journey of canning your own meals, and experience the convenience and satisfaction it brings. Let us know how your canning adventures unfold!

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source

While the Homesteading Act has long since been retired, the dream of acquiring free land in the United States is still very much alive. In recent years, numerous rural areas have opened their doors, offering free land to encourage growth and development. These opportunities often come with specific requirements, but they are generally manageable. Let’s explore three states where you can still find free land today.

Minnesota stands out as a prime location for those seeking free land. Known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota offers a unique blend of affordability and natural beauty. The state’s cost of living is relatively low, making it an ideal place to build a home on free land. Minnesota is rich in outdoor activities, with ample opportunities for swimming, canoeing, fishing, and ice skating, depending on the season.

Currently, two towns in Minnesota are offering free land: Claremont and New Richland. In Claremont, the homesteading program is targeted toward individuals with an income below $84,200 or families of three or more earning less than $98,830. Meanwhile, New Richland, a more developed town with golf courses and extensive hiking and biking trails, requires recipients to build a home within 12 months of acquiring the land.

Nebraska is another state where you can find free land, and it’s renowned for its friendly communities and strong family values. The state boasts the lowest unemployment rate in the country, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle down. Additionally, Nebraska offers low-cost healthcare, which is particularly appealing for retirees or families with young children.

Two towns in Nebraska currently provide free land opportunities. Curtis, a city located 40 minutes from five lakes, is known for having some of the best-tasting water in America. The free lots in Curtis come with amenities such as paved roads. Elwood, another charming town, markets itself as “one of the nicest towns in Nebraska.” It features a country club, reservoir, and plenty of hunting opportunities. To secure free land in Elwood, a $500 payment is required for the deed, and the home built must be at least 1,400 square feet on a foundation.

Lastly, Kansas offers affordable living and is famous for its Kansas-style barbecue. The state ranks well for low gas costs and home prices, making building a new home financially feasible. Kansas also offers exciting sports culture, particularly in college basketball, with two world-class programs in the state.

Three cities in Kansas currently offer free land. Plainville, a town equipped with essential amenities such as a hospital, schools, and various businesses, requires a $500 deposit for the land, refundable upon completion of the lot transfer. Construction must be completed within 18 months, and mobile homes are not permitted. Mankato, a small town with approximately 800 residents, offers a school, hospital, restaurants, and a shopping center. Building must commence within six months, with a two-year deadline for completion. The home must measure a minimum of 1,200 square feet. Finally, Lincoln, known as the “post rock” capital of Kansas, provides well-developed free lots with streets, gutters, and curbs, ready for new construction.

These states present unique opportunities for those looking to embrace a homesteading lifestyle, offering a chance to build a new life on free land. Whether it’s the lakes of Minnesota, the community spirit of Nebraska, or the affordability and culture of Kansas, each state has its own distinct advantages for prospective settlers.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source