Chickens are often considered the gateway to self-sufficiency for those venturing into a preparedness lifestyle. Their minimal space requirements and relatively low maintenance make them an excellent choice for beginners. Besides, the financial investment needed—apart from the initial setup of a coop—is quite modest.

Even if you reside in an urban environment, you can likely raise a few hens in your backyard. Most municipalities have regulations permitting a small number of hens, though roosters are generally prohibited. It’s essential to check local ordinances, as they might dictate the number of hens you can keep and may require neighbor approval. Additionally, there could be specific guidelines regarding the type and style of coops and runs permitted.

In rural settings, the decision often boils down to whether you allow your chickens to roam freely or contain them within a run. A chicken coop doesn’t need to be elaborate. Its primary function is to safeguard the chickens from predators and harsh weather while providing easy access for egg collection and cleaning.

For those planning to house chickens, a general guideline is to allocate at least a 20″x20″ area per standard-sized chicken, along with 12″ of roost space per bird. Typically, one nest box can accommodate four hens, though chickens often favor one or two nests over others.

When it comes to bedding, pine shavings or straw are recommended, avoiding cedar. While the coop should be draft-free during winter, adequate ventilation is crucial in summer to ensure the health of your flock.

Depending on your location, free-ranging chickens in the summer can significantly reduce feeding costs. They can forage for grasses, seeds, and insects, largely sustaining themselves.

Incorporating chickens into your preparedness plans offers a practical and rewarding step towards self-sufficiency. They provide a reliable source of fresh eggs and, when managed well, can seamlessly integrate into both urban and rural settings.

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

Source

Flooding poses a significant risk to both life and property, often catching people off guard with its sudden onset and devastating impact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight that flooding is more deadly than any other thunderstorm-related hazard, with many fatalities occurring when vehicles attempt to cross hazardous floodwaters. However, proactive measures can help safeguard your family and home from such threats.

Begin by determining whether your home is located in a flood plain. This can be done by consulting the FEMA Flood Map or reaching out to your city’s Emergency Preparedness department. Keep in mind, though, that these projections might not always reflect real-time conditions during an actual flood event.

If your residence is within a flood-prone area, it’s crucial to understand the risks posed by heavy rainfall, particularly when coupled with a dam or levee failure. Long-time residents often have a sense of where water tends to accumulate, so it’s wise to identify evacuation routes that are less likely to be submerged.

To minimize potential damage, ensure that appliances such as water heaters and furnaces are elevated above ground level. Additionally, seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds to prevent seepage and avoid the nuisance of localized flooding during heavy rains.

Understanding the distinction between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning is vital. A Flood Watch indicates that flooding is possible, while a Flood Warning means flooding is occurring or imminent. This knowledge enables you to take timely and appropriate action to protect your family and property.

Preparedness is key, so ensure that your family’s 72-hour emergency bags are ready for immediate use, including provisions for your pets. Remember to include copies of immunization records for everyone in your household, pets included.

Important documents such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial records, and insurance policies should be stored securely. Consider using a safety deposit box or a fireproof and waterproof box located on an upper floor of your home.

For those new to the concept of disaster preparedness, this guidance aims to provide foundational steps to protect against flooding. Even seasoned preppers can benefit from revisiting these essential strategies.

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

Source

In recent times, there’s been a noticeable increase in crime rates, partly due to the diminishing police presence in some areas. This has left many homeowners seeking effective ways to bolster their home security. Whether you’re in a neighborhood affected by unrest or simply want to enhance your safety, here are five strategies to improve the security of your home.

First and foremost, doors are the primary access points for any home and often the initial target for burglars. To safeguard against unwanted intrusions, it is crucial to keep your doors locked at all times, even when you’re inside. Enhancing your door security with peepholes, deadbolts, and security chains can provide additional layers of protection.

“Multiple locking mechanisms make it more difficult for an intruder to kick the door open.” Incorporating hinge bolts can further fortify your doors, providing that extra degree of security.

Another often-overlooked method of securing your doors involves verifying the identity of anyone who knocks or rings the doorbell. Some intruders rely on the element of surprise, waiting for homeowners to open the door for them instead of forcing their way in.

For those new to the concept of preparedness, it’s essential to explore various strategies to protect your home from potential threats. Even experienced preppers can benefit from revisiting and reinforcing these basic security measures.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly enhance your home’s security and ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

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

Source