A Kinda Sorta Prepper Thread [Hosted by Jake Holenhead]

I want to thank Ace, Misanthropic Humanitarian, and the other Cobs for giving me this opportunity.

All Hail Eris deserves the credit for giving me the idea to ask AceCorp for this thread when a while ago in a comment she asked for a prepper thread, specifically for urban apartment dwellers.

This isn't going to be a prepper thread for coping with events that might take down the power grid for months or years, such as Coronal Mass Ejections (CME) or an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP),although both events have happened.

Having read many stand alone books and series about these and other events, I have no idea how I would really perform if they occurred. I don't have access to a mountain top bunker and am not part of a network of like minded people who discuss these things, or will gather at a predetermined and well stocked location.

But, having lived in an apartment on a barrier island in Florida for 36 years I do have experience preparing for and dealing with power and water outages, once lasting a week. Usually they are the result of hurricanes, but not always. Besides, how can you expect to cope with a really long power outage if you aren't prepared for a short one?

I will also go through my evacuation procedure and the items I carry in my car for normal and emergency situations.

So, what is a prepper?

Depending on the source a prepper is either someone with common sense, or dangerous and un-American. When I was in the Navy a bunch of us learned to scuba dive from a retired Chief Petty Officer Master Diver. He would always tell us to "plan the dive, dive the plan." So to me a prepper is anyone who plans and prepares for any activity or event, whether it's a life threatening sport, painting the inside of your home, or a hurricane. You plan, you prepare, you prep.

Stay, or Go?
Depending on the event, such as a hurricane, you can have days to decide, or as for some impacted by the California wildfires they apparently only had minutes. For hurricanes I have done both. If I go I have to decide where and for how long. I also have to have a return plan. One thing I always do is combine my evacuation with a road trip. Visit friends, go someplace I have been and enjoyed, or someplace I haven't been and then sightsee. Over the years I have equipped my car with a number of items I have found useful. Almost every item listed has been used at least once, if not by me then by someone in need.

Inside:
Multi tool for breaking the car windows and cutting a seat belt.
Leatherman tool.
Cell phone charging cord with car plug adapter.
Dash Cam.
Collapsible umbrella.
Small flashlight.
Small Folding knife.
Kabar 1210 Jim Bowie knife.
Emergency pee cup (soda cup w/plastic lid from a fast food joint).
Plastic funnel (the type used on oil cans). So a gal can use my pee cup.
Spare fuses.
Misc items: water bottle, map, small plastic cups, a big wad of napkins.

In the trunk:
Knapsack with clothes and a sturdy pair of shoes.
Full body rain gear.
Small folding shovel.
Tow rope (about 15 ft).
Jumper cables.
A device to charge from battery to battery using the car's accessories socket (when not in a hurry to charge a battery).
Small tarp.
Small air compressor (plugs into car's accessories socket).
Small dry chemical fire extinqisher.
Can of fix-a-flat.
Some towells and a roll of paper towells.
Gallon of water.
Several tools.

Staying for Hurricane Wilma
October 2005 Hurricane Wilma's forecasted track took it over South Florida. There were several reasons I chose to stay in my apartment instead of leaving. The main reason was it's track was SW to NE, so I knew the storm surge would be minimal. 9 am on Monday, October 24 power and water were lost. I won't bore y'all with the details, but for about 5 hours it was a bit exciting, and at times danged scary. At about 3 pm the winds had died down and I went outside to survey the damage and to check on several neighbors that also stayed. Power was off for a week and water almost as long. It was time to find out how well I had prepared.

Water
I was without running water for 2 days. The 3rd day the county connected generators to the sewage grinding and lift stations and restored water. Water was shut off daily from about 7 pm to 7 am. When available there was a boil water notice in place. But at least I had running water to flush the toilet (I did not and do not have a chemical toilet), take a cold shower, and replenish the water I had used for non drinking/cooking purposes.
Most have probably heard the "minimum of one gallon per day per person for drinking" recommendation. I think most people don't hear the "minimum" and "drinking" part, and it depends on the weather and what you are doing. A person might need more, or less. Fortunatly a cold front was behind Wilma so the temps and humidity was very comfortable.

Instead of buying cases of bottled water I used several 5-7 gallon water containers you see at job sites or outdoor gatherings. I filled them several days before the storm hit. When not being used they can be used to store various items and kept in a closet. Usually at the beginning of hurricane season I start to keep empty gallon jugs of milk or juice for extra storage. These I filled several days before the storm and kept them in the standup shower in one of the bathrooms in case they leaked. I think I had about 30 gallons when Wilma hit, so lack of water was never a problem.

Cooking and Eating
During hurricane season I keep very little in my refrig/freezer. This is a lesson I learned in 2004 when Hurricane Frances hit where I live. Power was out for about a week and everything in the freezer thawed. I had evacuated and returned a couple of days after power was restored. Even though everything had re-frozen the stink was enough to gag a maggot. Fortunatly I had put everything in freezer bags so no juices had gotten into the refrig/freezer. Using baking soda it took about 2 weeks for the stink to go away. One item that was sold out everywhere I went after I got back was baking soda. So now I keep a large box.

For cooking I used a 2 burner Coleman camp stove and an Optimus 8R backpacking stove out on my balcony. Both burn Coleman's White Gas. The few perishables I had were cooked up that first night. Several neighbors came by with their's and we had a cookout in my apartment. For the next week I ate canned soups, stews, rice and beans, pasta, veggies, plus a few MREs, and cereal with water. I tried some experiments. Because most soups and stews to me were too soupy, I would add rice or pasta, as well as crackers. To minimize the time using a campstove I would soak the rice or pasta in water to soften them. I think it took about 3 hours. I also took a can of soup and punched a small hole in the top and set it outside in the sun. After about an hour it was warm enough.

Lighting
At night I used several oil lamps that burn Lamp Oil as well as several different types of flashlights. One type of flashlight I didn't have then but do now is a headlamp. It has an elastic strap with 3 LED lights. A red light and a high and low beam white light. It's great for hands free activities. Plus, the front flips down. Very convenient for reading.

Neighbors
I think maybe a dozen people/couples stayed for Wilma. I never told anyone how I was prepared for Wilma, just that I was staying. Except for one couple most were fairly well prepared and never posed a problem of needing something. The one exception was a couple that were just parasites. It will probably come as a surprise, but both are hard core lefties.

Conclusions
I made out pretty well and had no serious issues. The cool weather and running water for part of the time certainly made it easier to cope without power, and I'm glad I stayed. I experienced a strong Cat 2 hurricane with all the bells and whistles, including the eye as it passed over me. But, once was enough.

After Hurricane Wilma cleared the coast about 98% of South Florida had lost power. Some didn't get it back for several weeks. There was a lot of stoopid behavior. Because few gas stations had power people were driving a 100 or more miles to get gas (after Wilma state law required backup generators). At intersections where lights weren't working you are supposed to treat it as a 4 way stop. But, from what I saw it was a free-for-all, or a demolition derby event.

I know everyone's situation is different, but hopefully some of what I've written can be helpful.

So, how prepared are you? Do you have a plan, and if you do, have you had to implement it? I consider myself "always a student" and would like to learn what others have done and do. Here's a few links.

Backdoors Survival
Urban Survival Site
City Prepping
The Prepared
101 Survival Guide
How To Prepare Your Household For a Power Outage
Step by Step Plan For How to Get Started Prepping
The Best Prepper Movie List

Posted by: Misanthropic Humanitarian at 12:10 PM

Comments

(Jump to bottom of comments)

1 Start with weapons and lots of ammo. The rest is easy.

Posted by: Puddin Head at December 31, 2017 12:07 PM (vV/gB)

2 Well MREs I got

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:08 PM (SjImc)

3 I'm surprised at how many people don't have ten or twelve cans of beans (or bags of dried) just sitting around the house at all times, much less batteries and a bit of water.

Posted by: Moron el-Robbie - Grammie Be A White Construct - Also, them Dawgs is hell don't they! at December 31, 2017 12:08 PM (ks6bw)

4 I've never understood why some people get upset with prepping. What cost is it to you if I decide to put up some food for hard times? How does my being ready to deal with a bad situation hurt you?

Posted by: Rob Crawford at December 31, 2017 12:10 PM (fVubI)

5 I am far enough inland that hurricanes are almost never a problem. Hugo was the sole exception to that but I had no major damage. Just lost power for a week. I could not leave at the time even if I wanted to because I was on the emergency team for the plant.

Posted by: Vic We Have No Party at December 31, 2017 12:10 PM (mpXpK)

6 I like your approach to water storage. The gallon jugs you get at the grocery store are more prone to leakage.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:11 PM (NWiLs)

7 And medicine. So long as it's not some strictly controlled substance, it's important to be sure you've got your medicines. My doctors have been happy to hear I was planning and making a "hurricane bag," and they were more than willing to write a one-month prescription for maintenance medicines that would be put in a backpack and forgotten about.

Turns out your doctors like to know you want to take care of yourself. Funny, that.

Posted by: Moron el-Robbie - Don't Look Now, But Grrl Power Types Are Mad at Men For Holding 80%+ of Bitcoin We at December 31, 2017 12:12 PM (ks6bw)

8 intersections where lights weren't working you are supposed to treat it as a 4 way stop. But, from what I saw it was a free-for-all, or a demolition derby event.

Hell, that's every day.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (NWiLs)

9 Hurricane prep:

Step one: Move to Nebraska.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (gC2IV)

10 Name test

Posted by: Moron el-Robbie - Don't Look Now, But Grrl Power Types Are Mad at Men Owning 80%+ of Bitcoin Wealth[ at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (ks6bw)

11 Well MREs I got

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:08 PM (SjImc)

Good! Bring them to my house. I have lots of ammo.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (wYseH)

12 I have found this store has good prices, their shipping costs are a little high, but they have a lot of shit.

http://tinyurl.com/yb8dchfr

Posted by: Geroge at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (tO9MX)

13 Hurricane prep:

Step one: Move to Nebraska.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (gC2IV)

Tornado prep:

Step one: Move from Nebraska.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 31, 2017 12:14 PM (wYseH)

14 I've been building up my preps for a few years - nothing extravagant, just buying extra food, ammo, basic medical supplies, etc. There are a million options, and everyone has some new gadget to sell you or opinion on the best survival strategy, but my one piece of advice would be to learn some basic first aid skills am carry a small trauma kit at all times. 10 years of canned beans won't be of much use when you're bleeding to death, and it's hard to pack a wound with all those 60 round mags you bought on sale.

Posted by: PabloD at December 31, 2017 12:14 PM (uoI82)

15 Consider stuff like forest fires, too. Have a hard drive full of photos and documents that you can grab and go.

If I've got more than a day, all the guns and sentimental/antique furniture is going with us.

Posted by: Moron el-Robbie - Grrl Power Types Are Mad at Men Owning 80%+ of Bitcoin Wealth at December 31, 2017 12:14 PM (ks6bw)

16 Ammunition is probably the most important for colander facemask days. With ammo, you can trade or take what you need.

Posted by: Moron el-Robbie - Grrl Power Types Are Mad at Men Owning 80%+ of Bitcoin Wealth at December 31, 2017 12:16 PM (ks6bw)

17 When Super Storm Sandy hit some people around me lost power for a week. My internet (and Netflix) were knocked out for an hour (the horror!)

I just take my chances.

Posted by: Ignoramus at December 31, 2017 12:16 PM (pV/54)

18 That's a good list, Jake, but I didn't see a barbed wire wrapped baseball bat anywhere.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:16 PM (gC2IV)

19 Well MREs I got

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:08 PM (SjImc)

Good! Bring them to my house. I have lots of ammo.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (wYseH)

deal. I'm stocking up on ammo also.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:17 PM (SjImc)

20 When we faced the wildfires in San Diego in 07, we had a bit of time to plan our evac. We took picks all over the house of our stuf for insurance. We got all our docs and valuables together. I packed bags fur hubby and me and 2 dogs for about a week worth of evac and had them at the ready by the door. Hubby packed our van with his photography stuff and his paintings.

Then we waited. When we saw the flames atop
the ridge behind our home, we took off for a friends home in LA. Got there late at night after much evac traffic.

Hubby asked, where did you pack our bags? I said, where did I pack them? Where did you pack them? Yep. We had left them by the door. So much for prepping!

Posted by: Russkilitlover at December 31, 2017 12:18 PM (99Nt9)

21 My meager contribution to the list: Ham radio license (the beginner Technician license is pretty trivial if you know basic electronics), 2M/440cm handheld transceiver, car charger, and cheapie mag-mount car roof antenna. You can add more license privileges and bands/power later. Even if you never transmit, the little handheld can pick up weather broadcasts, let you listen in on volunteer nets, catch scraps of news, stuff like that.

Posted by: hogmartin at December 31, 2017 12:18 PM (y87Qq)

22 Cheap mass water storage: two liter bottles, washed, and drops of bleach as indicated. Look up Water Bob for storing lots of water for staying put.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:18 PM (Dp6qK)

23 When it comes to water, fill your bath tubs up as the storm approaches and keep bleach handy for keeping the water safe from dirty microbes and democrats.

Food wise, Spam and canned goods are your friends until you use the can.

Always use the neighbor's who have bugged out property for a latrine area.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at December 31, 2017 12:19 PM (EoRCO)

24
Thank you, Jake.

When hurricane season begins, on our weekly shopping trips we buy a few items of non-perishable food (soups, stews, hash, etc.) and a six-pack of bottled water. That way by the peak of the season we have a good supply laid on for whatever may come and so there's no panic shopping and death fights over the last can of sardines in the store. At the end of the year the canned goods not used are donated to a local food bank.

We have both a 1500 and a 3000 watt generator and will be buying an 8000 next year so the AC in the kennel can keep running. Also on the list: water-filled bladders for doors and weep-hole plugs.

Harvey put a scare in us. We made good preparations; Nature didn't care. It was like Sinners In The Hands of An Angry God.

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 12:20 PM (MeA7y)

25 Mis Hum,

Thanks again!

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 12:20 PM (Kfmqy)

26 Hurricane prep:

Step one: Move to Nebraska.
Posted by: Duke Lowell

Tornado prep:

Step one: Move from Nebraska.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo

All-purpose weather prep:

Step one: You're fucked.

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 12:21 PM (lLeln)

27 Being more inland in FL I've luckily never experienced loss of water and sewer from a hurricane. Power outages, of course.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:21 PM (NWiLs)

28 Back to water: If you have prior notice or suspect that water will be out, fill up your bathtub(s). You can drink it, cook with it, or re-fill your toilets with it. You will probably need a flat, rubber stopper to make sure there is no leakage. Also, don't forget about your hot water tank. Turn off your burner and use the faucet at the bottom of the tank for non-potable water.

Posted by: WTBAL at December 31, 2017 12:21 PM (BkSP6)

29 You have to think in terms of 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months. Each has it's own peculiarities. After 3 mos. well that's a whole different ball game.

Posted by: Sennacherib at December 31, 2017 12:21 PM (Y+/Tj)

30 I am only half prepared if I look at my situation properly.

My worst experience was power/water out for 5 days. All in the area knew it was coming but only a few prepped for it. I, filled all the vehicles tanks, ran to the store and bought charcoal/canned goods. Had drinking water already in jugs, plenty of dry food and filled the tubs. I had a number of kerosene lamps with a good supply of fuel.

A few neighbors moved in with me due to safety concerns more than anything.

It wasn't too bad really - really just a week long camping trip at home. Biggest issue was keeping neighbor lady's insulin cool.

I do wonder though why the general public run out to stock up on bread and milk. Is everyone going to make french toast before the milk spoils?

I was the only one loading my grocery cart with charcoal and canned goods. Everyone else was buying perishables.

Go figure.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 12:22 PM (tr2D7)

31 29 You have to think in terms of 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months. Each has it's own peculiarities. After 3 mos. well that's a whole different ball game.
Posted by: Sennacherib at December 31, 2017 12:21 PM (Y+/Tj)

After 3 months, that's what the guns, ammo and colander face masks are for.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:22 PM (NWiLs)

32 >>>Emergency pee cup (soda cup w/plastic lid from a fast food joint).

Sounds too flimsy - might fall out of the cup holder. Empty quart plastic milk bottle would be safer and more voluminous.

Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:23 PM (/qEW2)

33 but I didn't see a barbed wire wrapped baseball bat anywhere.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:16 PM (gC2IV)

Heh, excellent idea.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 12:24 PM (Kfmqy)

34 In all seriousness, my gracious hosts for most of this year keep "bug-out" bags for them and their cats (they do not consider leaving them behind an option--something I suspect would come back to haunt them In The Event). They also have a destination in mind. Unfortunately they're in an apartment complex near main thoroughfares with one exit. And it's a bad area.

So they're up on me in prep, but I don't like their odds.

I need to work out an apartment dweller's plan, which will be most similar, except I'm in a nicer area, which will give me a slight edge on time till Pear Shaped. (But ONLY a slight one...)

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 12:24 PM (lLeln)

35 At intersections where lights weren't working you are supposed to treat it as a 4 way stop. But, from what I saw it was a free-for-all, or a demolition derby event.

One would think that would be a no-brainer. There are several 4-way stop intersections I use around here, and have never had a problem. Do they not have 4-way stops in Florida, so people aren't used to them?

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 12:25 PM (sdi6R)

36 Emergency pee cup (soda cup w/plastic lid from a fast food joint

Why are you saving pee?

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at December 31, 2017 12:25 PM (tnRJU)

37 A trick for your freezer is if you anticipate a power outage is to pack it with as much stuff as possible. Freeze partially-full plastic bottles of water, ice packs, whatever. It won't keep a hard freeze for very long, but it will slow down the thaw and will keep your fridge colder longer if you have a side-by-side.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:25 PM (NWiLs)

38 Also under misc: maybe wetnaps?

Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:26 PM (/qEW2)

39 >>>Emergency pee cup (soda cup w/plastic lid from a fast food joint).

Sounds too flimsy - might fall out of the cup holder. Empty quart plastic milk bottle would be safer and more voluminous.
Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear

Or, just get a male hand urinal from any major drug store. I started keeping one during my issues this year, found it handy for "three people, two bathroom" logistics, and also for "might not make it". With a little doing it should be car-compatible.

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 12:26 PM (lLeln)

40 Emergency pee cup (soda cup w/plastic lid from a fast food joint).

Sounds too flimsy - might fall out of the cup holder. Empty quart plastic milk bottle would be safer and more voluminous.
Posted by: Steve
---
Steve, perhaps the cup is needed due to the larger opening on top.

Just spitballing here. . . .

Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 12:27 PM (tr2D7)

41 38 Also under misc: maybe wetnaps?
Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:26 PM (/qEW2)

And hand sanitizer.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:27 PM (NWiLs)

42 Why are you saving pee?
Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at December 31, 2017 12:25 PM (tnRJU)

And what do you do, just... waste such a precious, precious commodity?

Posted by: Rep. Pete Stark (D-CA) at December 31, 2017 12:28 PM (y87Qq)

43 You have to think in terms of 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months. Each has it's own peculiarities. After 3 mos. well that's a whole different ball game.

*****

That's the same approach I take with visits from the in-laws.

Posted by: Muldoon at December 31, 2017 12:29 PM (wPiJc)

44 We are making venison pepperoni today.

Fun times.

Posted by: Ann at December 31, 2017 12:29 PM (jtHQy)

45
If you keep gas for vehicles it needs to be rotated on a monthly basis. Unless it's ethanol free, then 3-4 months is fine. I use StaBil in all my 5gal cans as a precaution, regardless.

Posted by: irongrampa at December 31, 2017 12:29 PM (S/hVx)

46 Rather than using a fast food beverage container with a top as an emergency pee cup, I strongly recommend an empty plastic Gatorade or juice bottle with a screw on top. Label clearly and store SEPARATELY from beverages.

Posted by: Butch at December 31, 2017 12:29 PM (hXu8T)

47 My wife wants to know if we can bring a few china-men with us to keep her good on chinese food when we bug out?

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (SjImc)

48 The mentioned "group of like minded individuals" can be extremely important if it gets really bad.
People you really "know" well enough to trust your back to.

One thing that hit me a few years back to add to all the "normal" stuff is large zip ties.
A half gross went into each of my Alice packs.

Posted by: teej at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (BN/jk)

49 Hurricane prep:

Step one: Move to Nebraska.

A few years ago, power was knocked out all over Ohio by the remnants of a hurricane. We got the winds; Illinois got the rain.

Posted by: Rob Crawford at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (fVubI)

50 4 I've never understood why some people get upset with prepping. What cost is it to you if I decide to put up some food for hard times? How does my being ready to deal with a bad situation hurt you?
Posted by: Rob Crawford at December 31, 2017 12:10 PM (fVubI)

Because it's not fair for you to be prepared and self-sufficient, while others are not. When Communist countries suffer the inevitable shortages, they invariably make "hoarding" a crime and confiscate private stocks of goods.

The Holodomor was a rather extreme example of this phenomenon.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (sdi6R)

51 Yay! Prepper thread is a reality!

Thank you!

Posted by: Emmie -- please, no public display of insanity at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (/A+Cl)

52 My bugout bag contains a cell phone and Dad's credit card. What else would I need?

Posted by: Stupid hipster douchebag at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (gC2IV)

53 Sounds too flimsy - might fall out of the cup holder. Empty quart plastic milk bottle would be safer and more voluminous.

Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:23 PM (/qEW2)

I don't keep the pee, that's just silly. Cup gets emptied as soon as I'm done, then I replace it with a new one.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 12:31 PM (Kfmqy)

54 If I get hungry, I'll just order a pizza. Duh!

Posted by: Stupid hipster douchebag at December 31, 2017 12:32 PM (gC2IV)

55 personally i would like to know how to obtain anti biotics, because my spouse becomes ill with everything now. but His HC is managed. and so extra is a no go. so what do others do?

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:32 PM (t2Uf9)

56 A trick for your freezer is if you anticipate a power outage is to pack it with as much stuff as possible. Freeze partially-full plastic bottles of water, ice packs, whatever. It won't keep a hard freeze for very long, but it will slow down the thaw and will keep your fridge colder longer if you have a side-by-side.
Posted by: Insomniac
............
This works for a few days.. but it does work! We had some trouble with a Samsung refrigerator building up ice by the defrost fan.. the only solution (until we had that whole part replaced) was to defrost it by turning the unit off and opening up the fridge side.. the freezer stayed nicely solid frozen for 2 full days.

Posted by: Chi-Town Jerry at December 31, 2017 12:32 PM (5tSKk)

57 needy lefties wanting a gallon of water in post storm events, could be much less polite in some wider event, like an attack on our communications systems, or anything that interrupted our complex food delivery systems.

If enough implanted jihadists/antifa activists got that "go signal" they could paralyze a lot of systems. So far they are mostly incompetents and/or stupid kids.

A vacuum packed 5 gallon bucket of lentils (or macaroni?) might keep a long time, or 30 gallons in a bigger container. Hopefully we get some indications things are "going bad" a month or more in advance, but some prepping can be fun in any case.

Or all those millions of extra acres of parks ... maybe do the 40 acres and a mule thing again, and repopulate the west with people that would go through some training? Water is an issue out west where the land is ... but small gardens and a couple cows might work, idk.

Most will stay in the concrete jungles ... green acres is the place for me.

Posted by: illiniwek at December 31, 2017 12:32 PM (otAqJ)

58 Sounds too flimsy - might fall out of the cup holder. Empty quart plastic milk bottle would be safer and more voluminous.
Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:23 PM (/qEW2)

I would suggest something like a Sobe or Gatorade bottle. They tend to have more volume and a screw cap.

Gals, you are on your own on this one.

Having used a small soft drink cup in a heavy snow-storm traffic jam, I found that I was not finished peeing before I reached the spill zone of the cup because I had to hold it at an angle to use it.
Try stopping peeing in the middle to change or dump containers before you have to do it for reals. It avoids some of the anxiety.

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 12:32 PM (2K6fY)

59 Israel Says It Struck Gaza In Response To Friday Rocket Attack

They should just level Gaza.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:33 PM (SjImc)

60 9 Hurricane prep:

Step one: Move to Nebraska.
Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:13 PM (gC2IV)

One would think that Vermont would be safe from hurricanes, but one would be mistaken.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Irene#Vermont

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 12:34 PM (sdi6R)

61 44 We are making venison pepperoni today.

Fun times.
Posted by: Ann at December 31, 2017 12:29 PM (jtHQy)

Oh deer.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:34 PM (NWiLs)

62 There are water bags shaped and sized to fit in your bathtub to hold water, ~ $20 from Amazon a few years ago, and surely available from other sources too. Good point about a gallon per day being the *minimum* for *drinking*. Think of multiple options for storage, and purification, and more storage, and portable options... you can go without food for much longer than without water.

Posted by: Helena Handbasket at December 31, 2017 12:35 PM (/jJd8)

63 I haunt the clearance rack of stores sporting goods section. Everything is on sale eventually; I bought a full set of camping cookware, suitable for use on the propane grill- including coffee pot! Never make the mistake of panic buying in an emergency; purchase other people's panic buys after the emergency.

Posted by: yellacaster at December 31, 2017 12:35 PM (f9H2B)

64 I've looked into getting MREs but they're pretty damn expensive, especially if you get the mil-spec ones with FRHs included.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:36 PM (NWiLs)

65 Also under misc: maybe wetnaps?
Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:26 PM (/qEW2)

And hand sanitizer.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:27 PM (NWiLs)

I have wetnaps, just forgot to list it, but do not have hand sanitizer.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 12:36 PM (Kfmqy)

66 When we built in the woods next to cow pasture we knew power could be an issue. So we put in a generator. It's run by our 100 gallon propane tank. In 2 plus years we've lost power 5 times due to downed branches in the area. Our lines are all buried as is the tank. Best investment we made. Keeps the essentials going which includes the fridge and freezer.
Do need to keep more water and food on hand.

Posted by: never enough caffeine at December 31, 2017 12:36 PM (gDnuE)

67 A bad combination of optimism, laziness and lack of disposable income have left me totally unprepared. And I love in an earthquake zone. Maybe this year I can at least get some water stored.

Posted by: Max Power at December 31, 2017 12:37 PM (QCc6B)

68
You would think Ohio would be safe from hurricanes, but when we lived in Warren County the remnants of Ike came north and combined with a cold front, leading to 60 mph winds. We lost five huge trees and had the power out for nine days.

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 12:37 PM (JC4fG)

69 A new low in US-PA ties? PA recalls ambassador to US
PA foreign affairs chief orders top diplomat in US Husam Zomlot, back to Ramallah for 'consultations' following Jerusalem recognition.

These "people" a re suicidal. I almost feel sorry for them. Almost

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:37 PM (SjImc)

70
Leatherman tool.

*swoon*

Posted by: Shep Smith at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (oVJmc)

71 Up here in the cold north, I doubt we would last 3 days in weather like this.. summer would be a different story.. I keep an extra propane tank for the grill, so cooking would be possible..

But I cannot think what event would cause short-term outages up here.. if the shit hit the fan, it would be long term..

That said, I am making a list of stuff I want to start collecting and fill a big storage tub with out in the garage. one of these days..

The apply for an FOID and get some kind of protection for the house.. probably a shotgun.

Posted by: Chi-Town Jerry at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (5tSKk)

72 Remember, you have 40-80 gallons of stored water in your water heater. Just turn off the circuit breaker before you drain.

Posted by: yellacaster at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (f9H2B)

73
RULE OF 3's IN-LAW PREPAREDNESS GUIDE - a limerick

Three days is really a strain
By three weeks I'm totally drained
Now three months is too much
For the in-laws as such
So I'll need a place to hide their remains

Posted by: Muldoon at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (wPiJc)

74 I remember Ike, too.

How come I keep getting an internal server error when I try to post something with content? But not anything pasted?

Posted by: Marica at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM (pes9p)

75 Just call me All Hail Eris, Thought Leader!

Thanks Jake, this is well-timed as I need to go over my larder, bug-out bags and preps to update and purge. This winter may prove to be a doozy and I'll need bargaining power when I establish my Frazetta-inspired post-snowpocalypse feudal society.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM (qJtVm)

76 73
RULE OF 3's IN-LAW PREPAREDNESS GUIDE - a limerick

Three days is really a strain
By three weeks I'm totally drained
Now three months is too much
For the in-laws as such
So I'll need a place to hide their remains
Posted by: Muldoon at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (wPiJc)

Why waste a perfectly good food source?

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM (NWiLs)

77 Zip ties are a great to have as well as duct tape

Posted by: Max Power at December 31, 2017 12:40 PM (QCc6B)

78 Indispensable!
https://tinyurl.com/ybnlk7vm

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 12:40 PM (W+kMI)

79 Three days is really a strain
By three weeks I'm totally drained
Now three months is too much
For the in-laws as such
So I'll need a place to hide their remains
Posted by: Muldoon at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (wPiJc)

Why waste a perfectly good food source?
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM (NWi

you guys!

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:40 PM (t2Uf9)

80 I believe the most essential thing to have is a lot of well-stocked, but weak, neighbors to prey upon.

Posted by: Mr. Peebles at December 31, 2017 12:41 PM (oVJmc)

81 Also, don't forget a shovel, plastic sheeting, and Lyme for your neighbors.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (gC2IV)

82 i''l ask again, my spouse becomes easily now, has several bouts with cellulitis, but had c diff. and sepsis. So what do i do in those circumstances?

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (t2Uf9)

83 81 Also, don't forget a shovel, plastic sheeting, and Lyme for your neighbors.
Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (gC2IV)

Stock up on deer ticks?

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (NWiLs)

84 68
You would think Ohio would be safe from hurricanes, but when we lived in Warren County the remnants of Ike came north and combined with a cold front, leading to 60 mph winds. We lost five huge trees and had the power out for nine days.
--------
As a Moron who lives in Butler County none too far from you, I propose that the #1 prepper item is a Black Rifle with lots of ammo to prevent all the zombie hordes from Hamilton County from stealing what we have.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (W+kMI)

85 A new low in US-PA ties? PA recalls ambassador to US

PA foreign affairs chief orders top diplomat in US Husam Zomlot,
back to Ramallah for 'consultations' following Jerusalem recognition.

These "people" a re suicidal. I almost feel sorry for them. Almost

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:37 PM (SjImc)

Pennsylvania has an ambassador? Huh.

Posted by: thatcrazyjerseyguy at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (TPimP)

86 spouse becomes ILL easily*

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (t2Uf9)

87 I believe the most essential thing to have is a lot of well-stocked, but weak, neighbors to prey upon.
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at December 31, 2017 12:41 PM (oVJmc)

Yup and here in NJ, there are lot's of easy pickings since most have no weapons being left wingers and all

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (SjImc)

88 During my month and a half sojourn to South Florida recently, I had occasion to use the fire extinguisher supplied with the trucks we rent every year.

I was driving east into Jupiter, when people in a passing car told me my truck was on fire. Thankfully I was at a stop light right at the Chasewood Plaza. I jumped out and looked and sure enough, there was a big streak of flame coming out of my exhaust. I shut the engine down and grabbed the extinguisher and used it to put out the fire.

I was in the middle lane of traffic on a major thoroughfare, so I started the engine and got the truck off the road and into the parking lot just in time for the fire department to show up. The back of the large box truck was loaded with crates of "live" Christmas wreaths, so it could have been a really big deal.

How did the fire come to be, you might ask? When you rent these trucks, the fuel tanks are full, usually filled by the previous renter. Evidently, that person had filled the tank with regular gas instead of Diesel. The regular gas burns a lot hotter than diesel and that's what happened. I had melted one of the cylinders and the gas is what was burning out of the exhaust like flames from a jet fighter on afterburner.

Thankfully no one was hurt, although I took quite a bit of ribbing from my fellow co-workers. The good thing is we weren't responsible for paying for a new engine...the previous renter is and I imagine they are in for a big surprise when they check their credit card invoice.

Posted by: Traveling Man at December 31, 2017 12:43 PM (R5lpX)

89 Pennsylvania has an ambassador? Huh.
Posted by: thatcrazyjerseyguy at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (TPimP)

Only the ones from inner Philly

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:43 PM (SjImc)

90 I believe the most essential thing to have is a lot of well-stocked, but weak, neighbors to prey upon.
Posted by: Mr. Peebles at December 31, 2017 12:41 PM (oVJmc)

Yup and here in NJ, there are lot's of easy pickings since most have no weapons being left wingers and all
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (SjImc)

bastards.

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (t2Uf9)

91
I'll need bargaining power when I establish my Frazetta-inspired post-snowpocalypse feudal society.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes

Horned helmet, fur bikini and fur boots will increase your leverage.

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (JC4fG)

92 76
73

RULE OF 3's IN-LAW PREPAREDNESS GUIDE - a limerick

Three days is really a strain

By three weeks I'm totally drained

Now three months is too much

For the in-laws as such

So I'll need a place to hide their remains

Posted by: Muldoon at December 31, 2017 12:38 PM (wPiJc)

Why waste a perfectly good food source?

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM (NWiLs)

I don't recommend eating the bones of in-laws. Might make a good stock, however. YMMV.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (Dp6qK)

93 ok srsly does anyone have any answer?

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (t2Uf9)

94 Just call me All Hail Eris, Thought Leader!
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM (qJtVm)

No.

Bespectacled Smaugette.

Posted by: hogmartin at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (y87Qq)

95 Pennsylvania has an ambassador? Huh.

Posted by: thatcrazyjerseyguy at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (TPimP)

Only the ones from inner Philly

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:43 PM (SjImc)

LOL!!

Posted by: thatcrazyjerseyguy at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (TPimP)

96 I keep a couple of five gallon buckets made up with canned and packaged foods for about 4 or 5 days. They are my grab-and-go buckets. Food, utensils, a couple of sterno cans and matches, and vacuumed packed "condiment" bags of coffee, sugar, hard candies and other comfort stuff.

January is the month where I eat all the nearly expired stuff.

I also buy large amounts of rice, beans, red wheat, noodles, sugar and coffee and vacuum pack it and keep it in buckets. This is more of an economic thing than a prepper thing. I buy when it is cheaper if possible, and having it on hand, in smaller batches encourages me to use it. Eating beans or lentils and rice once a week doesn't hurt you (ate it twice a day for a year once) and it does save a bit.

I also encourage people to get pressure cookers since they cook better and use less energy to cook with. And you can use them to autoclave equipment

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 12:45 PM (2K6fY)

97 So I'll need a place to ~~hide~~ store their remains
Posted by: Muldoon

Why waste a perfectly good food source?
Posted by: Insomniac

******

Updated.

Posted by: Muldoon at December 31, 2017 12:45 PM (wPiJc)

98 I know it is FL, but winter survival gear also includes blankets in the car, and some kitty litter (cheapest there is) in the trunk if you get stuck.

Posted by: mustbequantum at December 31, 2017 12:45 PM (MIKMs)

99 82 i''l ask again, my spouse becomes easily now, has several bouts with cellulitis, but had c diff. and sepsis. So what do i do in those circumstances?
Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (t2Uf9)

I suppose you could ask your doctor for an emergency supply of antibiotics, but I'm not sure what else you can do, especially for sepsis which can require all manners of medical intervention not readily available at home.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:45 PM (NWiLs)

100 willow, I know that there are some pet and/or livestock meds that are the same as what humans get, but that's about all I know. Not sure about *which* or what dosage or other important stuff, sorry.

Posted by: Helena Handbasket at December 31, 2017 12:46 PM (/jJd8)

101 willow,

I wish I could answer your question, but I can't. Probably talk to your doctor and find out what he/she recommends.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 12:47 PM (Kfmqy)

102 Prepper Tip: Feed and balance the Type II diabetic in your group.
Lots of metformin and diabetes-friendly canned/dried food for me. If I don't get 3-4 properly spaced meals a day I get hungry. According to my friends I get a little scary if I miss a meal. Admittedly 1 king-sized Snickers bar and I can run for 3 hours straight...or lapse into glucose induced coma for 1. But yeah, feed me, or tell the hobos they shouldn't crash in the abandoned trailer next door.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 12:47 PM (W+kMI)

103 I think preppers are silly on the whole for their reasons (Obama is gonna take all our guns and outlaw truth!/Trump is gonna ban fun and put us all in camps!) but the idea of being ready for things to very wrong is simply reasonable and wise.

The very meaning of disaster is that it is something we do not expect and cannot plan for, so its simply good sense to be as ready for things to go wrong -- however it happens -- than not.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:48 PM (39g3+)

104 i''l ask again, my spouse becomes easily now, has several bouts with cellulitis, but had c diff. and sepsis. So what do i do in those circumstances?
Posted by: willow
...........
I've had two bouts of cellulitis that put me in the hospital.. one went sepsis and it was damn scary 8 days in hospital and two more weeks on IV antibiotics at home..

I don't know what I would do in a survival situation.. most likely die.

However.. Would hospitals close? Would not some sort of emergency care be available? I don't know.. I just hope so.

Posted by: Chi-Town Jerry at December 31, 2017 12:48 PM (5tSKk)

105 I bought a survival radio for y2k. Dynamo. Battery. Solar. My first prep purchase.

Posted by: Phildirt at December 31, 2017 12:48 PM (NZFll)

106 64 I've looked into getting MREs but they're pretty damn expensive, especially if you get the mil-spec ones with FRHs included.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:36 PM (NWiLs)

I have some. A case or two would last you a few days at least.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (sdi6R)

107 My wife wants to know if we can bring a few china-men with us to keep her good on chinese food when we bug out?
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:30 PM (SjImc)

Ummmmm...No. Get Koreans as they run the kitchens anyway.

Like the fella in the original "Manchurian Candidate", Ching Chang Choo or whatever his name was could broil up some nice steaks on demand.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (EoRCO)

108 Willow, talk to your doctor about prescriptions for his meds. Insurance may not cover it, but that doesn't mean you can't get it. You'll just have to pay out of pocket. Not so bad unless he's on something like Humira.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (gC2IV)

109 willow, I'd love to help but I'm no doctor.
Didn't even stay in a Holiday Inn last night.
Perhaps one of our resident physicians...

Posted by: teej at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (BN/jk)

110 i''l ask again, my spouse becomes easily now, has several bouts with cellulitis, but had c diff. and sepsis. So what do i do in those circumstances?
Posted by: willow
---
It is a real problem willow and perhaps cannot be adequately solved. Mrs. TP has a terminal diagnosis but currently being *managed* by meds. If real trouble hits, she's dead as the meds will not be available for long, if at all. I won't even be able to steal them at breached pharmacies.

Someone I think posted earlier about asking your husband's MD for ideas. There may be some option available to stock up.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (tr2D7)

111 Ah, yes, the Typical Hardcore Lefty Parasites of the species.

AKA "Food" or "Prey".

YMMV

Posted by: Sharkman at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (K2hsm)

112 93
ok srsly does anyone have any answer?

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (t2Uf9)

Befriend a prepper-minded doc who might be able to get you some emergency supply in a roundabout way? Dark web and buy Rx online, but I question the ethics and trustworthiness of the product. Trip to Mexico or Canada or some other locale that may have fewer reservations about supplying a bit extra for a bit extra?

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:50 PM (Dp6qK)

113 Emergency pee cup (soda cup w/plastic lid from a fast food joint).

Sounds too flimsy - might fall out of the cup holder. Empty quart plastic milk bottle would be safer and more voluminous.
Posted by: Steve
---
Steve, perhaps the cup is needed due to the larger opening on top.

Just spitballing here. . . .
Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 12:27 PM (tr2D7)

Pity the man who can pee into an empty ketchup bottle.

Posted by: BurtTC at December 31, 2017 12:50 PM (Pz4pT)

114 Living in FL it is possible to plant fruit trees ie: citrus , mango coconuts and banana that provide an abundance of sustenance with little or no maintenance or refrigeration. Citrus produce fruit twice a year and the others produce their fruit at different times..if you have access even a small patch of a back yard..

Posted by: Voter Dude at December 31, 2017 12:50 PM (U5Xeq)

115 77 Zip ties are a great to have as well as duct tape
===
You really are taking this "to serve man" thing to heart aren't you? That is just contingency planning. Honest.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 12:50 PM (W+kMI)

116 For those concerned about drugs talk to your doctor although you may have to bite the ugly bullet and pay full price for extra prescription fills if you are on a 1 or 3 month plan. Or ask about samples. We travel outside the country a lot and I always take my 2 drugs that I will need if my chronic condition flares up. In the past we've traveled right after a flare up and insurance covered the first prescription and I payed full price for the back up. Do keep in mind that you will need to replace them after a couple of years.

Posted by: never enough caffeine at December 31, 2017 12:50 PM (gDnuE)

117 For a long time now I've thought that if things go horribly wrong (meteor strike, nuclear war, EMP surge from the sun, vast plague, necromancer invasion) half the population will die from sheer ignorance, not the event. People who think that meat comes from the store in styrafoam packages, people who can't start a fire without a gas stove. Just starving and freezing out of total ignorance of how anything at all works.

The older I get, the more convinced I am.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (39g3+)

118 81 Also, don't forget a shovel, plastic sheeting, and Lyme for your neighbors.
Posted by: Duke Lowell at December 31, 2017 12:42 PM (gC2IV)
---
No, no, LIME and jerk seasoning. Don't forget the mango/habanero salsa, which can cover gaminess.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (qJtVm)

119 Few years ago after surgery, I subsisted on Honeyville freeze dried food. Their scrambled eggs and sausage were not bad at all.

Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (/qEW2)

120 I've looked into getting MREs but they're pretty damn expensive, especially if you get the mil-spec ones with FRHs included.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:36 PM (NWiLs)

I have some. A case or two would last you a few days at least.
Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 12:49 PM (sdi6R)

If you go on enough Military "Evolutions" you can pick up a real nice collection . LOL. I was the OIC of one and ended up with a whole case in car trunk.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (SjImc)

121 Its not fit for man nor beast outside

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (aC6Sd)

122 K or C ( never remember which) were pretty bad, had them a few times.

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 12:53 PM (aC6Sd)

123 103
I think preppers are silly on the whole for their reasons (Obama is gonna take all our guns and outlaw truth!/Trump is gonna ban fun and put us all in camps!) but the idea of being ready for things to very wrong is simply reasonable and wise.

The very meaning of disaster is that it is something we do not expect and cannot plan for, so its simply good sense to be as ready for things to go wrong -- however it happens -- than not.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:48 PM (39g3+)

Speaking of "something we do not expect and cannot plan for . . . ." Fortunately, many of the preps are similar, no matter the "disaster," as the thin veneer of society melts away in even the most expected of natural disasters.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:53 PM (Dp6qK)

124 Personally if things go horribly wrong I know I'll likely be dead within a few weeks because I just don't have what it takes to survive in a very tough situation and I cannot provide the basic needs and jobs people require in exchange for food or shelter. Eventually, people need things like thinkers and writers and artists and teachers, but that's down the road when just being alive the next day isn't such a pressing concern.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:54 PM (39g3+)

125
I asked a while ago what everyone's Every Day Carry (EDC) was. Nobody gave a shit, which led me to believe none of you were prepared for nothin.

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 12:54 PM (+iFQS)

126 You know besides those very useful items, Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy suggests a towel.

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 12:55 PM (aC6Sd)

127 103 The very meaning of disaster is that it is something we do not expect and cannot plan for, so its simply good sense to be as ready for things to go wrong -- however it happens -- than not.
=====
"For the day of the LORD shall come like a thief in the night." Or possibly like a hurricane on the Weather Channel.

Either way, those who have even a little basic preparation will do alright. those that don't, will have to rely on:
1. the charity of their neighbors (dicey)
2. the charity of FEMA (still waiting...)
3. the charity of The Humungous (get the gas Toady)

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 12:55 PM (W+kMI)

128 I asked a while ago what everyone's Every Day Carry (EDC) was.

A folding pocket knife, has scissors and a cork puller on it. I'm ready for any dining emergency

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:55 PM (39g3+)

129 Bespectacled Smaugette.
Posted by: hogmartin at December 31, 2017 12:44 PM (y87Qq)
----
Which reminds me -- have extra pairs of glasses, folks. If the air has particulate matter or is acrid, contacts can be extremely uncomfortable and you'll need to swap out for spectacles.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:55 PM (qJtVm)

130 Looks like I'll have an interesting thread to read once I get home from work.

Assuming the ice don't shut down roads and trap me at Wal-Mart...

Posted by: Anna Puma (HQCaR) at December 31, 2017 12:55 PM (Od2ky)

131
However.. Would hospitals close? Would not some sort of emergency care be available? I don't know.. I just hope so.
Posted by: Chi-Town Jerry at December 31, 2017 12:48 PM (5tSKk)

Hospitals are required to have all manners of disaster and emergency preparedness policies, procedures and equipment/infrastructure and would not shut down. If there's a disaster situation of such magnitude that hospitals ceased to function you're fucked anyway. The problem in a lesser disaster is communications going down and transportation routes being blocked.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:56 PM (NWiLs)

132 Well if your a pretty young girl and a good breeder, your probably in like flint in case of any emergency.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:56 PM (SjImc)

133 No, no, LIME and jerk seasoning. Don't forget the mango/habanero salsa, which can cover gaminess.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (qJtVm)

Tabasco Sauce. It's great for everything.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 12:56 PM (Kfmqy)

134 What are you prepping for?

Posted by: Cosmic Charlie at December 31, 2017 12:56 PM (PUmDY)

135 I can teach people how to survive, I know the hell out of wilderness survival, how to make weapons, shelters, get food, travel, what to watch out for, etc. I know how to build fires, collect and purify water, how to avoid danger, etc. I just don't have the strength to actually, you know, do all that stuff. Ain't nobody gonna drag me along for ideas.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (39g3+)

136 96
I keep a couple of five gallon buckets made up with canned and packaged foods for about 4 or 5 days. They are my grab-and-go buckets. Food, utensils, a couple of sterno cans and matches, and vacuumed packed "condiment" bags of coffee, sugar, hard candies and other comfort stuff.

January is the month where I eat all the nearly expired stuff.

I also buy large amounts of rice, beans, red wheat, noodles, sugar and coffee and vacuum pack it and keep it in buckets. This is more of an economic thing than a prepper thing. I buy when it is cheaper if possible, and having it on hand, in smaller batches encourages me to use it. Eating beans or lentils and rice once a week doesn't hurt you (ate it twice a day for a year once) and it does save a bit.

I also encourage people to get pressure cookers since they cook better and use less energy to cook with. And you can use them to autoclave equipment

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 12:45 PM (2K6fY)

In your experience, when are such things typically cheaper?

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (Dp6qK)

137 Imma go get my car bag. I wonder if the water bottle has frozen and exploded all over my emergency Sobranies *shudder*.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (qJtVm)

138
My EDC:

My debit card
My phone
My car
A powerful battery jumper pack/12V power supply
An AC 110 power inverter
An Air Compressor
Tools
Paper Towels
Weapons

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (+iFQS)

139 Tabasco sauce still can't kill the plastic taste of MRE scrambled eggs.

Ciao

Posted by: Anna Puma (HQCaR) at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (Od2ky)

140 What are you prepping for?
Posted by: Cosmic Charlie at December 31, 2017 12:56 PM (PUmDY)

If they try to take out MY PRESIDENT

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (SjImc)

141 125
I asked a while ago what everyone's Every Day Carry (EDC) was. Nobody gave a shit, which led me to believe none of you were prepared for nothin.

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 12:54 PM (+iFQS)

Wallet, keys, phone, Cold Steel Rajah III, Glock 23.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (NWiLs)

142 I've looked into getting MREs but they're pretty damn expensive, especially if you get the mil-spec ones with FRHs included.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:36 PM (NWiLs)

Dinty Moore and Armour have those ready in 60 seconds meals in the plastic trays. Those are essentially MR main dishes, just not in the milspec poches.
You can also get Indian food in pouches - I have Ashoka brand Palak Paneer in pouches that I picked up at the Grocery Outlet store. They sell pouches of rice as well. (go easy on the Indian food, it will melt your fillings)
They can all be heated up in boiling water.

As I said above, I make the accessory bags of coffee, sweets, and toilet paper on my own with a vacuum sealer

On the other hand you can get the individual serving cans and make your own C-Rats, which is what I do with the five gallon buckets, or you can do things like get minute rice and instant grits and seal them in the little 8 oz screw top plastic jars that you get cranberry juice in.

By the way, 2-liter soda bottles are teh bomb for storing elbow macaroni, beans, rice, corn, coffee beans, sugar or anything else that will flow through the neck.
They are sturdy, they are manageable, they are resealable, and even better there is huge numbers of options for storage.

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (2K6fY)

143

Vicks Vaporub (yes, the stuff in the small translucent dark blue jar).

If you have recurring athlete's foot, that you simply can't get cure, and are tired of having your feet crack to the point that walking becomes painful, try rubbing a very light coating of Vicks Vaporub on you feet before you go to sleep. This frequently cures the problem, and in 1 (one) application.

Do it again in the morning after showering and as part of putting your shoes on: just in case, plus it cleans up your shoes.

I think it's the camphor that does the job.

Posted by: Arbalest at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (FlRtG)

144 Well if your a pretty young girl and a good breeder, your probably in like flint in case of any emergency.

Preferably chubby, so you have extra energy in storage for lean times, and help keep your men warm at night.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (39g3+)

145
oh, and Flashlights

And Binoculars.

And Cash.

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (+iFQS)

146 I get the 5 gallon bottles of spring water delivered. One of them lasts me about two weeks for drinking, making coffee, and what little cooking I do. A few years ago I started ordering extra for a while in order to build up a backlog of bottles. I label them with the date I receive them and rotate my stock.

I also do the same with cases of beer. I don't know how well-prepared I am for anything else, but at least if I catch a cold I can drink plenty of fluids.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (sdi6R)

147 If you go on enough Military "Evolutions" you can pick up a real nice collection . LOL. I was the OIC of one and ended up with a whole case in car trunk.
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (SjImc)

Seems a bit of a draconian measure just to get some MREs.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (NWiLs)

148
Things like EMP are unlikely, but it's not silly to assume that if there's a flood, hurricane blizzard or (less likely) earthquake or fire you are on your own. Don't assume there's going to be someone around to help you. Figure out what the principal threat is and plan accordingly.

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (74s9E)

149
Oh, and a couple of Bic Lighters! (very important)

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 12:59 PM (+iFQS)

150
Yeah willow that is tough. We have been prepped for a decade for at least a one month downtime, but the one thing we can't is my wife's epilepsy meds. So a long term disaster is gonna be really hard on people with chronic conditions.

But we figured in our society more than one month disaster is gonna be dog eat dog and everybody is gonna be f'ed.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at December 31, 2017 12:59 PM (r+sAi)

151 104 i''l ask again, my spouse becomes easily now, has several bouts with cellulitis, but had c diff. and sepsis. So what do i do in those circumstances?
Posted by: willow
...........
I've had two bouts of cellulitis that put me in the hospital.. one went sepsis and it was damn scary 8 days in hospital and two more weeks on IV antibiotics at home..

I don't know what I would do in a survival situation.. most likely die.

However.. Would hospitals close? Would not some sort of emergency care be available? I don't know.. I just hope so.
===
I feel your pain, having a chronic health condition myself. It's something that has to be taken into account when planning to survive the Whatever Apocalypse. Be ready to handle things on your own, though. the hospitals will do their job as long as possible, but even before Obummercare they were operating on a slender margin. Expect hospitals post-apocalypse to be short on everything, and carrying out full triage with a ruthlessness that will make all the Millenials swoon.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 12:59 PM (W+kMI)

152 Hey, before I get back, somebody gimme a link to antibiotics for purchase. I've heard fish stuff is the same as people-biotics.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:59 PM (qJtVm)

153 Tabasco sauce still can't kill the plastic taste of MRE scrambled eggs.

Ciao
Posted by: Anna Puma (HQCaR) at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (Od2ky)

Skip breakfast, just go with the coffee. Throw the scrambled eggs into the afternoon stew. It all comes out in the end. Eventually

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:59 PM (SjImc)

154 Your car list doesn't include a pot.
I always have a 1.5 L stainless pot with lid, for quick boilups, use as bucket, etc.

BTW: the following url goes to a small business with very high quality outdoor gear. The kind you trust your life with, on expeditions and emergencies.

https://www.bensbackwoods.com

Posted by: pogomip at December 31, 2017 01:00 PM (kTfpI)

155
Oh, and bottles of water.

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 01:00 PM (+iFQS)

156 Smith and Wesson 38 snub with composite frame light enough for the wife small and reliable. Safe with an empty on the trigger.

Posted by: Catman at December 31, 2017 01:00 PM (KzK8d)

157 154 Your car list doesn't include a pot.
I always have a 1.5 L stainless pot with lid, for quick boilups, use as bucket, etc.

Willow's car list includes pot.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:00 PM (NWiLs)

158 If you go on enough Military "Evolutions" you can pick up a real nice collection . LOL. I was the OIC of one and ended up with a whole case in car trunk.
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (SjImc)

Seems a bit of a draconian measure just to get some MREs.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (NWiLs)

I'm there anyway.

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:00 PM (SjImc)

159 158 If you go on enough Military "Evolutions" you can pick up a real nice collection . LOL. I was the OIC of one and ended up with a whole case in car trunk.
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 12:51 PM (SjImc)

Seems a bit of a draconian measure just to get some MREs.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (NWiLs)

I'm there anyway.
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:00 PM (SjImc)

I mean for me.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (NWiLs)

160
I'm not prepared for the long haul.

But I am prepared for the short term, long enough to lay siege on others who have the supplies I need and want.

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (+iFQS)

161 Prep all you want, you're still fucked.

Posted by: Randall Flagg at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (gC2IV)

162 I plan on panicking. You can get away with anything after the fact if you were panicking.

Posted by: josephistan at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (ANIFC)

163
I mean for me.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (NWiLs)

Hey you can come as my guest. I got pull

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (SjImc)

164
We bought the fish antibiotics for storage, but I understand you can't over the counter them anymore. That may have changed since last I heard.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at December 31, 2017 01:02 PM (r+sAi)

165
Eventually, people need things like thinkers and writers and artists and teachers, but that's down the road when just being alive the next day isn't such a pressing concern.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor

Imagine being a Grievance Studies major during a disaster: "Will Discuss Intersectionalty For Food".

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 01:02 PM (74s9E)

166 117 For a long time now I've thought that if things go horribly wrong (meteor strike, nuclear war, EMP surge from the sun, vast plague, necromancer invasion) half the population will die from sheer ignorance, not the event. People who think that meat comes from the store in styrafoam packages, people who can't start a fire without a gas stove. Just starving and freezing out of total ignorance of how anything at all works.
=======
You don't have to be old to see it coming. Thanks to the growing Idiocracy rate about half the USA will die from their own incompetence and ignorance. Or die while sitting around waiting for The Government to rescue them.

Not getting flushed down the disaster drain with the sheeple will be one of the main goals of the prepper/survivalist.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:03 PM (W+kMI)

167 look up fishforte on amazon

www.inhousepharmacy.vu

Works and reliable

Posted by: Catman at December 31, 2017 01:03 PM (KzK8d)

168 125

I asked a while ago what everyone's Every Day Carry (EDC) was. Nobody gave a shit, which led me to believe none of you were prepared for nothin.

Posted by: Soothsayer SLX Pro Series II Platinum Turbo at December 31, 2017 12:54 PM (+iFQS)

We certainly weren't prepared to discuss at the time.

I have a nice little mini tool set, Leatherman Micra with scissors, LED pinch light, compass/thermometer, and I added a 16GB USB drive. That is along with my folder and CCW.

The 16GB USB drive is getting a Linux Lite installation that will allow me to use on any computer that will boot USB, contain current pics of loved ones and encrypted text files of important info and scans of important docs, etc.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 01:03 PM (Dp6qK)

169 But I am prepared for the short term, long enough to lay siege on others who have the supplies I need and want.

Probably the best approach. if its not a really awful disaster, you can survive until things get back on their feet. If everything goes pear-shaped, huge stocks of supplies just make you a target for the most powerful and well-organized.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:03 PM (39g3+)

170 Hey you can come as my guest. I got pull
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (SjImc)

If I'm every up NJ way I'll be sure to let you know!

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:04 PM (NWiLs)

171 If the last few days have taught me anything it's to have a white box truck, a bag of golf clubs and a case of Valurite.

Posted by: Fritz at December 31, 2017 01:04 PM (bJ0w+)

172 When we had that Antrax thing soon after 9/11, I bought a shit load of ciprofloxacin ( in the wife's orders) and it was expensive and of course it was never used and got so old I dumped it

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (SjImc)

173 First aid kit - when the hurricanes hit you end up working outside to clear debris and make repairs. Cuts and abrasions happen. A good battery powered drill with a variety of screws along with various 1x2, 2x4, etc. and a chainsaw come in handy. Duct tape, 550 cord, tarps also nice to have.

Posted by: Uncle Si at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (sQyD6)

174 Probably the best approach. if its not a really awful disaster, you can survive until things get back on their feet. If everything goes pear-shaped, huge stocks of supplies just make you a target for the most powerful and well-organized.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:03 PM (39g3+)

A la Negan and the Saviors.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (NWiLs)

175 152
Hey, before I get back, somebody gimme a link to antibiotics for purchase. I've heard fish stuff is the same as people-biotics.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:59 PM (qJtVm)

Sounds fishy.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (Dp6qK)

176 Well when shit goes sideways all you guys can come to WeaselAcres and live among the pine trees.

Posted by: Weasel at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (Sfs6o)

177 130 Looks like I'll have an interesting thread to read once I get home from work.

Assuming the ice don't shut down roads and trap me at Wal-Mart...
=======
Anna invokes the "survival in big box store" trope here, pretty good on the spot resources. Just watch out for the crazy lady and the know-it-all with his head up his ass.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:06 PM (W+kMI)

178 176 Well when shit goes sideways all you guys can come to WeaselAcres and live among the pine trees.
Posted by: Weasel at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (Sfs6o)

We can go all Euell Gibbons and eat bark.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:06 PM (NWiLs)

179 Anna invokes the "survival in big box store" trope here, pretty good on the spot resources. Just watch out for the crazy lady and the know-it-all with his head up his ass.
Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:06 PM (W+kMI)

And the rogue security guard. That fucker's nuts.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:06 PM (NWiLs)

180 If you like korean food I will always have a ready and live source of protein! A whole facility full..

Posted by: Catman at December 31, 2017 01:07 PM (KzK8d)

181
In your experience, when are such things typically cheaper?
Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (Dp6qK)

Near the end of the year and the retailer is looking at paying taxes on current stock, when the new crop comes in, when the market blips, and periodic sales.
I do keep an eye out at the Cash and Carry for sales.

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 01:07 PM (2K6fY)

182 Of course it is not going to be this cold when we have to bug out right? I mean it's fuckin frigid out there

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:07 PM (SjImc)

183 182 Of course it is not going to be this cold when we have to bug out right? I mean it's fuckin frigid out there
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:07 PM (SjImc)

Of course not. Disaster only strikes when it's 73 degrees and sunny.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:08 PM (NWiLs)

184 I do keep about 12 gallons of water on hand to clean the fish tank, but could also be used for non fish tank purposes should the need arise. i always have a mutlitool & flashlight with me - small ones on the keychain, full size ones in my attache (NOT a man purse!)

Posted by: josephistan at December 31, 2017 01:08 PM (ANIFC)

185
We can go all Euell Gibbons and eat bark.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug!

North Koreans are preppers!

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at December 31, 2017 01:09 PM (IqV8l)

186 Cuts and abrasions happen.
Posted by: Uncle Si at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (sQyD6)

Gloves - $3 suede garden gloves or knock-off Mechanix work gloves - are often underrated and overlooked.

Posted by: hogmartin at December 31, 2017 01:09 PM (y87Qq)

187 If circumstances warrant don't forget the 40 or so gallons of water in your hot water heater.

Posted by: Weasel at December 31, 2017 01:09 PM (Sfs6o)

188 What are you prepping for?

Zombie or Socialist Apocalyptic

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:10 PM (aC6Sd)

189 You know how in that new movie the Washington Post is the brave hero who saves the world? Well, the real life Post is a grinch:

On Dec. 18, the Post published an editorial titled "Did Historical Jesus Really Exist? The Evidence Just Doesn't Add Up." The author, Raphael Lataster, is a lecturer in "religious studies" at the University of Sydney and the author of "There Was No Jesus, There Is No God."

And, therefore, there is no Christmas. It is fantasy.

-
Well, I'm g!ad we got that settled.

Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, The Persistence! at December 31, 2017 01:10 PM (+y/Ru)

190 There's a surprising amount of food all around you, but the problem is you can't survive long on that. You can get a few weeks on gathering and hunting, but you'll tap out that eventually and have nothing. The only way to survive long term is to have gardens and livestock/move around hunting areas until they are clear/kill others and take what they have.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:10 PM (39g3+)

191 144 Well if your a pretty young girl and a good breeder, your probably in like flint in case of any emergency.

Preferably chubby, so you have extra energy in storage for lean times, and help keep your men warm at night.
======
Don't count on it. Pretty young breeders are gonna get demoted back to the Viking Age of "walking currency" if things don't get back on keel. SJW-level delusions will be an early casualty of any prolonged disaster.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:11 PM (W+kMI)

192 If circumstances warrant don't forget the 40 or so gallons of water in your hot water heater.
Posted by: Weasel
---
Weasel Dude!

It's WATER heater.

As a Platinum level member you know better than this.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 01:11 PM (tr2D7)

193 Im not sure where it is since we moved, but we had a small swimming pool, so I kept a camping water filter on hand, which I figured we could use for drinking water for a few days if needed.

Harvey was predicted to possibly hit San Antonio, so I filled our freezer with ice and water bottles. Nothing happened here, but I took some of that frozen water when we went to check our condo on the coast that had taken a direct hit.

The island residents who had lost their homes had selfishly taken up all the hotel rooms on the coast, so we made a series of day trips to deal with the condo. The first time we were allowed onto the island, we didn't know exactly what we'd find, but we knew water, electricity and cell were out. So I took a makeshift potty made out of a five gallon bucket with screw on top, lined with garbage bags and disposable diapers to soak up the fluid.

Luckily we didnt have to use it. There were a few port o cans and we were only there for a few hours. There were already church volunteers there with free bottled water and ice for whoever needed it, and this was the second day people were allowed onto the island. Good people really stepped up to help, which was heartening to see.

Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 01:11 PM (6HFDU)

194 I do have a first aid kit in my truck but need to see what has been taken and replace those items

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:11 PM (aC6Sd)

195 So my older daughter and her boyfriend went out to dinner last night and he was not wearing any gloves. So I gave him mine in case the car broke down. LOL.

They are fuckin 30 years old. Sigh

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:11 PM (SjImc)

196 181

In your experience, when are such things typically cheaper?
Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 12:57 PM (Dp6qK)

Near the end of the year and the retailer is looking at paying taxes on current stock, when the new crop comes in, when the market blips, and periodic sales.
I do keep an eye out at the Cash and Carry for sales.

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 01:07 PM (2K6fY)

Thanks. I am on the lookout for deals on pintos and rice to buffet longer-term storage.

Short-term storage (good shelf life typically 5+ years) items, besides SPAM, are tuna, Dinty Moore Beef Stew, Chili, SPAM, Corn Beef Hash, SPAM, and SPAM.

Posted by: flounder, rebel, vulgarian, deplorable, winner at December 31, 2017 01:12 PM (Dp6qK)

197 In the wiki article on MREs, it says,
In December 2006, comedian Al Franken (on his 8th USO tour at the time) joked to troops in Iraq that he had had his fifth MRE so far and "none of them had an exit strategy".

Yes, that USO tour. Good thing his tongue had an entry strategy.

Posted by: Steve and Cold Bear at December 31, 2017 01:12 PM (/qEW2)

198 thanks for ideas. yeah i cannot get them on his managed plan because of the c diff. although after any antibiotics we do flagyl and pro biotics which has been effective for now. . They now put him in the hospital as soon as they face any bacterium or suspected virus.

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 01:12 PM (t2Uf9)

199 On Dec. 18, the Post published an editorial titled "Did Historical Jesus Really Exist? The Evidence Just Doesn't Add Up."

Yeah, a reprint from several years ago, believe it or not. Its a level of scholarship akin to flat earthers, incredibly poor, idiotic, and incompetent. No serious historian remotely doubts the historical existence of Jesus Christ. There's far more support for it than even historical figures such as Mohammed or Julius Caesar, for crying out loud.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:13 PM (39g3+)

200 Great thread topic

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:13 PM (aC6Sd)

201 192 If circumstances warrant don't forget the 40 or so gallons of water in your hot water heater.
Posted by: Weasel
---
Weasel Dude!

It's WATER heater.

As a Platinum level member you know better than this.
Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 01:11 PM (tr2D7)
---------
I have again shamed myself and my ancestors.

Posted by: Weasel at December 31, 2017 01:14 PM (Sfs6o)

202
Gloves - $3 suede garden gloves or knock-off Mechanix work gloves - are often underrated and overlooked.
Posted by: hogmartin at December 31, 2017 01:09 PM (y87Qq)

Yes, and rubber gloves for flooding. Also, hand wipes or hand sanitizer.

Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 01:14 PM (6HFDU)

203 Well if your a pretty young girl and a good breeder, your probably in like flint in case of any emergency.
---------------------------------
Preferably chubby, so you have extra energy in storage for lean times, and help keep your men warm at night.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 12:58 PM (39g3+)

Lesson learned from the siege of Leningrad, which lasted almost 3 years: Fat people died of starvation first.

Posted by: BurtTC at December 31, 2017 01:14 PM (Pz4pT)

204 so i guess i am back to hoping a disaster that is long term starts with a nuke right on top of my pointy head.

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 01:14 PM (t2Uf9)

205 In SoCal earthquake is the main apocalyptic scenario. Wildfires, as noted in the post, can mean instant evacuation from limited areas, so not really analogous.

Of course it won't always be like this, but in San Diego's last big wildfire crisis (2007), the main center for free services to the displaced (the stadium) had sushi, massages, and other ridiculous frills beyond the basics. So wildfire evacuation is all about a "go bag" with valuables and documents, not surviving.

For earthquake, water in bottles, canned food, plus all the dry food and frozen/refrigerated food - removed and immediately cooking on the gas grill the perishable stuff once your 24-72 hours of "leave it closed, it stays OK" run out (and extra propane tank for the grill). Should be plenty. Batteries, flashlights, good emergency radio. Done.

Only concern is that others aren't even doing these small basics. Been meaning to ask the two elderly neighbors if they have stocked up at least 2 weeks' worth of water and non-perishable food.

Guns and ammo - um, enough to last the First Belorussian Front at least a few hours during a typical assault, none of which is for "survival" purposes (just cheaper and easier to buy bulk, and now with the new CA ammo law, the tanks are all topped up with things I don't reload - component supply would get the Soviet formation through a few more days).

Posted by: Farshimmelt Alte-Kocker, AKA rhomboid at December 31, 2017 01:14 PM (Dhcvl)

206 If the power went out for any significant period of time, that would truly suck because I would probably have to go buy a generator.

3000W or 7000W?

Posted by: Fritz at December 31, 2017 01:15 PM (bJ0w+)

207 188 What are you prepping for?

Zombie or Socialist Apocalyptic
=========
It's the same thing, really.

I should remind people to get lots of battery-powered stuff, and lots of batteries for them. If the power grid goes, and it probably will, things will get VERY difficult.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:15 PM (W+kMI)

208 Heard a radio program very recently that the historical evidence of the bible and include the New Testament is verifiable.

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:16 PM (aC6Sd)

209 Haven't read the whole comment thread, so apologies if this has been said:

Op-Sec. Be very judicious about telling others you're prepared. Most people will not be and will be panicking. They will then resort to any behavior to save themselves and their loved ones. The difference between civilization and barbarism is seven days of food and water.

Posted by: RS at December 31, 2017 01:16 PM (CNQqJ)

210 I like Tuna better as a stored meat than Spam: it costs a fraction as much, for one thing.

Pretty young breeders are gonna get demoted back to the Viking Age of "walking currency" if things don't get back on keel.

Sure, but they are fed and sheltered no matter how they're treated. Its a choice between dying out in the wild and surviving at that point, and pretty girls win.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:16 PM (39g3+)

211 Venezuela is having a Socialist Apocalypse as we comment now

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:17 PM (aC6Sd)

212 The longest I have been without electricity was three days after Hurricane Sandy. But my old gas range with pilot lights still worked fine. Whoever said to keep the freezer full made a good point. I was cooking more back then so I had a freezer full of slowly thawing leftovers that I heated up for meals. I never had to dip into my canned food or MREs at all. When the power came back on the remaining leftovers were still good enough to keep.

One thing I bought at the time was a battery-powered headlamp. I can't recommend that highly enough for power outages. It's much handier for reading and cooking than juggling a flashlight, and I could make my way throughout my darkened house without having candles burning all over the place.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 01:17 PM (sdi6R)

213 Christopher, I put stuff up ahead, that was how I was raised.

When I got fired and seriously hurt and laid up for a good six months I ate on my stores, and was not in concern for the first year out of work about food. I did have money put aside for emergencies, and that sufficed for the mortgage, but the rest: underwear, shoes, socks, toilet paper, all I had bought up ahead.

Prepping is not just for the next Carrington event, it is also for being laid up or out of work for a while.

Oh, and get out of debt if you can do it.

Posted by: Kindltot at December 31, 2017 01:18 PM (2K6fY)

214 Venezuela is having a Socialist Apocalypse as we comment now
Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:17 PM (aC6Sd)

Yup....you'd think they would have learned a thing or two from the Detroit Socialist Apocalypse.

Posted by: Hairyback Guy at December 31, 2017 01:18 PM (EoRCO)

215 Friggin' lefties....

Posted by: Deplorable Ian Galt at December 31, 2017 01:19 PM (8iiMU)

216 anyway i think we have enough gross but edible food /water storage for appx 6 weeks or so, if he doesn't become ill.

so i wonder why even bother.

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 01:19 PM (t2Uf9)

217 >>> Of course it is not going to be this cold when we have to bug out right? I mean it's fuckin frigid out there

Those of us in the Northeast will most likely have a weather related disaster in the fall. Right now it would suck to have a wind storm blow branches through a window.

Posted by: fluffy at December 31, 2017 01:20 PM (cHbmY)

218 Leningrad is a facinating read, animals went first, pets next, dead relatives after that.

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:20 PM (aC6Sd)

219 Jambalaya MRE was my favorite. Not bad cold - though they were hardly "cold" where I got to enjoy them. Of course they were an occasional indulgence, didn't have to have them very often.

Taste tested the HDRs (humanitarian daily ration - the universally culturally acceptable MRE developed in the wake of '91 in the mountains of Iraq, where the Kurdish displaced had MREs dropped in).

Quite good, which makes sense. Basically lentil stews and other central/south Asian staples, which lend themselves to an MRE format, and are often good unheated. If any of those are available, and one has a space set aside for MRE-type rations, consider adding a few to the mix.

Posted by: Farshimmelt Alte-Kocker, AKA rhomboid at December 31, 2017 01:21 PM (Dhcvl)

220 i do imagine being in the city will make our chances nil after a couple of weeks anyway.

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 01:21 PM (t2Uf9)

221 I'm curious for the details on what, exactly, the parasitic lefty couple did that got them labeled as such.

Posted by: lauraw at December 31, 2017 01:21 PM (D+nQH)

222 209 Haven't read the whole comment thread, so apologies if this has been said:

Op-Sec. Be very judicious about telling others you're prepared. Most people will not be and will be panicking. They will then resort to any behavior to save themselves and their loved ones. The difference between civilization and barbarism is seven days of food and water.
Posted by: RS at December 31, 2017 01:16 PM (CNQqJ)

What's the saying, mankind is only nine meals away from anarchy?

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:22 PM (NWiLs)

223 We always keep our cars' gas tanks at least half full, so at the very least we can use them to charge phones or enjoy a hit of AC, and of course bug out if we need to.

Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 01:22 PM (6HFDU)

224 210 I like Tuna better as a stored meat than Spam: it costs a fraction as much, for one thing.

Pretty young breeders are gonna get demoted back to the Viking Age of "walking currency" if things don't get back on keel.

Sure, but they are fed and sheltered no matter how they're treated. Its a choice between dying out in the wild and surviving at that point, and pretty girls win.
======
This is true, at least. The cuties will survive to some extent while the autistic shrieking uggos will not last. Just don't want the cuties to get the idea that they will all become Strong Independent Women. Prob'ly quite the opposite...

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:23 PM (W+kMI)

225 Just wanna get thru this week without main waterline freezing up.

Posted by: Political hacks posing as the FBI at December 31, 2017 01:23 PM (4u7kU)

226 About three weeks ago at the height of the recent California wildfires, the state issued a "High Fire Risk" warning for any areas where there would be high reverse-direction winds and near open areas. THat included the neighborhood where I live.

One of my neighbors, who is a prepper type (his greatest fear: Earthquakes) absolutely went into hysterical panic mode about this fire risk warning, and produced a "WHAT TO DO!!!" flyer which he personally took around to every house, pounding on doors and refusing to go away until everyone took one from him. He was deadly serious that WE ALL GONNA DIE unless every single person on the street did exactly as he instructed.

I can't remember it all, but the list went on and on with incredibly detailed commandments:

"ALL CARS MUST BE PAKRED POINTED DOWNHILL! People making U-turns in a panic will block the street!

HAVE ESCAPE CLOTHES FOLDED NEATLY NEXT TO YOUR BED AT ALL TIMES! Trying to untangle your clothes as the fire licks at your windows will cause you to die!

RECHECK YOUR FLASHLIGHT'S BATTERIES EVERY FOUR HOURS! A flashlight that doesn't work could be a death sentence!

REMOVE ALL VALUABLE FROM YOUR HOME RIGHT NOW and store them at a relative's! Trying to rescue valuables will slow you down and not only kill you but kill all the people trying to rescue you!

PLACE ALL PETS IN KENNELS IMMEDIATELY! Otherwise, they'll roast to death!

Etc. etc. for two pages.

Needless to say, there was never a fire in our area. Just a vague warning that there was a risk for one, a warning that was canceled the next day.

I didn't see a single neighbor obeying even one of his commands.

Posted by: zombie at December 31, 2017 01:23 PM (42M22)

227 Here in Los Angeles, earthquakes can strike with literally zero warning. Because of that, there's a strong possibility that if a major earthquake (i.e. one big enough to actually cause major traffic disruptions in Los Angeles) hits, I'll be stuck quite a ways away from home. As a result, I keep water and some very basic food (power bar-type stuff) in the trunk of my car. Assuming my car isn't trapped in a collapsed parking structure, I should at least have enough food and water to last for a little while.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:23 PM (+fHsM)

228 @ 211

And Venezuela is utterly unprepared for ANY upsettlement.

Posted by: irongrampa at December 31, 2017 01:24 PM (S/hVx)

229 Have told this before, but when we went to the banya (public bath-house) in Leningrad when I spent time there, the old ladies were shocked at the skinny American girls, and asked them why they "had nothing for the bad times". This was the 70s, so these women had probably lived through the siege.

And while not bad, the girls in the group were hardly USC cheerleaders. Just incredibly skinny by Soviet standards. I fear today's college honeys, on average, would give the Soviet women less concern ..... few look like they've missed any meals.

Posted by: Farshimmelt Alte-Kocker, AKA rhomboid at December 31, 2017 01:24 PM (Dhcvl)

230 always a good re-read:

http://theplacewithnoname.com/blogs/klessons/index.html

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:25 PM (yM/Yl)

231 I always figured if I have enough ammo I can get the other things I need.

Posted by: jsg at December 31, 2017 01:25 PM (gSwpy)

232 Ok, haven't read all the comments yet so if not already mentioned,

A crank type radio
A manual can opener
Paper plates, cups plastic utensils so you need not use your water supply.
Always have a spare 12 or 24 pack of toilet paper
Hormel/Dinty Moore/Mary Kitchen products have a 20 year shelf life

Posted by: cfo mom at December 31, 2017 01:25 PM (RfzVr)

233 For an intermediate, short term situation I recommend keeping cash around (particularly in 5s and 10s). Back when lived in NYC, including during blackout and 9-11 it was instrumental to getting stuff, including a ride out of town to the in-laws outside the City.
Now in a somewhat different situation, but I think cash is always helpful (at least until people start running out of food).

Posted by: xnycpeasant at December 31, 2017 01:25 PM (W/SyC)

234 I fear today's college honeys, on average, would give the Soviet women less concern ..... few look like they've missed any meals.

Posted by: Farshimmelt Alte-Kocker, AKA rhomboid

I suspect the hot, young chicks will find a way to get fed.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:26 PM (yM/Yl)

235 Wow is it cold out. I hope I never have to hit the road on foot in this weather.

So here's what's in Eris's Magic Bug-Out Bag (Car):

Paper/pen
Terlit paper (in sealed plastic bag)
Protein bars (rock hard - it's cold!)
Atlas
Face masks (not colander, just paper filter style)
Bag of holding
Nat Sherman Black & Golds
I bottle of water (frozen solid)
Soap
Hand sanitizer
Kleenex
Thick socks
Small bottles of Grey Goose
One metal tin containing: bandaids and ointment, knife, vitamins, tweezers, chapstick, water purifier pills, flashlight (dead battery), rubber bands, aspirin.
Another tin with: rubber gloves, wet ones, camp matches, Mag-Lite (dead)

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:26 PM (qJtVm)

236 And I love in an earthquake zone.
Posted by: Max Power at December 31, 2017 12:37 PM (QCc6B)

So do I.

I feel the earth move under my feet; I feel the sky tumbling down, a-tumbling down ....

Posted by: Emmie -- please, no public display of insanity at December 31, 2017 01:26 PM (/A+Cl)

237 @231 jsg

So, murder and robbery suddenly become OK?

Posted by: RS at December 31, 2017 01:27 PM (CNQqJ)

238 206
If the power went out for any significant period of time, that would
truly suck because I would probably have to go buy a generator.

If the power is out for any length of time, generators are the first to go around here. I have a 6500 watt Predator from Harbor Freight that sits in a cheap little plastic shed I bought for it. Haven't had to use it since I got it in 2012.

Posted by: dartist at December 31, 2017 01:27 PM (nisXv)

239 226 About three weeks ago at the height of the recent California wildfires, the state issued a "High Fire Risk" warning for any areas where there would be high reverse-direction winds and near open areas. THat included the neighborhood where I live.

One of my neighbors, who is a prepper type (his greatest fear: Earthquakes) absolutely went into hysterical panic mode about this fire risk warning, and produced a "WHAT TO DO!!!" flyer which he personally took around to every house, pounding on doors and refusing to go away until everyone took one from him. He was deadly serious that WE ALL GONNA DIE unless every single person on the street did exactly as he instructed.

I didn't see a single neighbor obeying even one of his commands.
====
As the prophet Jeremiah said, zombie, "I told you so!" You can advise, plead, lecture, and shout, but a lot of people live for today, not for tomorrow. Those people would never live to see another tomorrow if the wheels came off modern civilization, but they can't say they weren't warned.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:28 PM (W+kMI)

240 I'm curious for the details on what, exactly, the parasitic lefty couple did that got them labeled as such.
Posted by: lauraw at December 31, 2017 01:21 PM (D+nQH)

Details might be interesting, but without them, I think we can guess.

Posted by: BurtTC at December 31, 2017 01:28 PM (Pz4pT)

241 One metal tin containing: bandaids and ointment, knife, vitamins, tweezers, chapstick, water purifier pills, flashlight (dead battery), rubber bands, aspirin.
Another tin with: rubber gloves, wet ones, camp matches, Mag-Lite (dead)
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:26 PM (qJtVm)

Get a solar-powered flashlight.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:28 PM (NWiLs)

242 A critical piece of information for you stay or go decision is the capability of your local water supply company to provide water - not necessarily for drinking, but for sanitation. If you live on a city sewer, chances are you and your neighbors don't have a enough space for outdoor disposal. Might be ok if everyone else leaves - but you can't count on that.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:28 PM (yM/Yl)

243 So, murder and robbery suddenly become OK?
Posted by: RS at December 31, 2017 01:27 PM (CNQqJ)

OK has nothing to do with it

Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (SjImc)

244 I think water is the important thing. The body can go for a while without food. Water? about 3 days and then things get nasty.

Don't want to spend a lot of money or storage space on empty containers? And don't want to fill with water to find it gone bad when you need it?

Get the 5 gal buckets at home depot. You can buy a lid for them. It's not water tight but it will keep out debris and critters while you've got water in them.

Then when the crisis is over just empty them (or use the water) and then nest them together stacking their lids alongside.

Next important thing is a means of cooking. Eating cold stuff is just uncomfortable for most folks. Plus if the temp is low it will help warm you up.

Get a portable hibachi or similar and charcoal. Keep it handy. Maybe even use it now and then. But keep the charcoal stocked up. Also a gasoline campine stove is good and of course a propane one.

Beyond that use your imagination and to your taste.

Water and fuel. Oh and a firearm in case there's assholes about.

Posted by: jakee308 at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (BgY3o)

245 I didn't see a single neighbor obeying even one of his commands.
Posted by: zombie
---
But it did identify the lunatic to be avoided/eliminated if TSHTF.

So, not a bad exercise overall.

Posted by: Tonypete at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (tr2D7)

246 You can get a cheap solar panel at Harbor Freight. That would help with charging a phone. I keep meaning to grab one but always remember when I'm halfway home.

Posted by: jsg at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (gSwpy)

247 Lesson learned from the siege of Leningrad, which lasted almost 3 years: Fat people died of starvation first.

Sure, if you're dealing with actual starvation, all the rules go out. But in times of low food, when people are going hungry because of a reduction in intake or a short lag while hunters are out hunting, being fat can give you a buffer against starving.

Just don't want the cuties to get the idea that they will all become Strong Independent Women. Prob'ly quite the opposite...

The natural state of humanity is brutal and struggling to survive, and women largely being chattel. That's not the proper state of humanity, its just how things end up if everything goes back to the bulk of human existence.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (39g3+)

248 And, its good to know the elderly around you.
In other than a worst case scenario you can be a tremendous help to get them through a few hard days.
Obviously you need to take care of yourself and your own first, but in all but the most desperate situations you can still be a decent human being, and who knows but even then.

Posted by: xnycpeasant at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (W/SyC)

249 243 So, murder and robbery suddenly become OK?
Posted by: RS at December 31, 2017 01:27 PM (CNQqJ)

OK has nothing to do with it
Posted by: Nevergiveup at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (SjImc)

Neither does KS.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (NWiLs)

250 At least this thread so far has lots of good suggestions

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (aC6Sd)

251 What is a good long term water storage system? I'm in SoCal so fresh water is going to be the limiting factor in most situations, and will disappear almost instantly when the SHTF. Without worry of extreme temperatures, how can you store 100+ gallons without risk of bacteria?

Posted by: wooga at December 31, 2017 01:30 PM (n5VsB)

252 Here's a link to the FM 21-76 Army survival manual. Great info for a lot of different emergencies including medical.

https://preview.tinyurl.com/6m579bu

$11 From Amazon.

https://preview.tinyurl.com/ybnzzv2x

Posted by: X-ray at December 31, 2017 01:31 PM (QQ4UP)

253 Well, this is cool! Been out shoveling snow but going to read the whole thing (now that I realize it's not a movie review).

Posted by: Peaches at December 31, 2017 01:31 PM (14URa)

254 Oh. And go camping at least once with your gear and see how it all works and what works best and what don't. Then when the SHTF you will be calm and cool while others are losing their rabbit ass minds.

Posted by: jakee308 at December 31, 2017 01:32 PM (BgY3o)

255 Get a solar-powered flashlight.
---
Good idea.

Unless it's nuclear winter!

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:32 PM (qJtVm)

256 237 @231 jsg

So, murder and robbery suddenly become OK?
===
Part of the fun in the zombie apocalypse is seeing what people are REALLY like when the crisis hits. If there are no sheepdogs present, the wolves and foxes will inevitably move in on the flocks and henhouses. Not to mention the usual goblin scum who were already thinking murder and robbery are OK and will shed no tears over the breaking of society.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:32 PM (W+kMI)

257 If an EMT event happened it would be a small area near a nuclear blast.

The idea that nearly every electronic device would be made useless in the entire United States is too silly even for SciFi. Unless the entire US has also been wiped out by a nuclear Armageddon

Posted by: Apache at December 31, 2017 01:32 PM (uc45P)

258 Pretty great...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJIZSG4nKdk

Posted by: Cosmic Charlie at December 31, 2017 01:32 PM (PUmDY)

259
We have a well for our water. Need to get a water service out to figure out how to hook it up to a generator so the pump works.

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 01:33 PM (74s9E)

260 So, murder and robbery suddenly become OK?
Posted by: RS at December 31, 2017 01:27 PM (CNQqJ)

To trade.

Yeah, that's the ticket.

Posted by: jsg at December 31, 2017 01:33 PM (gSwpy)

261 223 We always keep our cars' gas tanks at least half full, so at the very least we can use them to charge phones or enjoy a hit of AC, and of course bug out if we need to.
Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 01:22 PM (6HFDU)

I used to let my gas tank get almost empty before filling up, but several years ago I started filling it up when it gets down to 1/2 full. There is no point taking chances.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 01:33 PM (sdi6R)

262 I think water is the important thing. The body can go for a while without food. Water? about 3 days and then things get nasty.

Better to invest in very fine water filtration units than have stockpiles of water. Lots, and lots of them.

However, the priority list goes like this, with the rule of 7s:

Shelter (7 hours in bad weather before you kick it)
Water (7 days in best conditions before you die)
Food (7 weeks in best conditions before you die)

Mind you, that's an absolute; people usually die long before that 7. And the last few units are going to put you into a condition where you'll need others to help you survive. You can go about 3 days without water before you start to become worthless, even if you manage to technically live until the 7th day.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:33 PM (39g3+)

263 My wife wants to know if we can bring a few china-men with us to keep her good on chinese food when we bug out?
Posted by: Nevergiveup

Sure, if you get a few Philapina nurses

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:33 PM (yM/Yl)

264 Lesson learned from the siege of Leningrad, which lasted almost 3 years: Fat people died of starvation first.
-------------------------
Sure, if you're dealing with actual starvation, all the rules go out. But in times of low food, when people are going hungry because of a reduction in intake or a short lag while hunters are out hunting, being fat can give you a buffer against starving.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:29 PM (39g3+)

I just don't think that's true. I think that was the lesson, even BEFORE things got really bad, the fat people were getting sick and dying, while the thin people were still relatively unscathed.

Posted by: BurtTC at December 31, 2017 01:34 PM (Pz4pT)

265 I'm curious for the details on what, exactly, the parasitic lefty couple did that got them labeled as such.

Posted by: lauraw at December 31, 2017 01:21 PM (D+nQH)

lauraw,

The second day they came by my apartment asking for some water. They must have heard from some neighbors that were in my place the first night that I had a lot water in jugs. I think I gave them 2 jugs. The wife said, 'That's all!? The next day they came by and asked for more water and some food. I told them sure, but y'all will have to pay for it. They were pissed. I found out they had been asking others for stuff as well. That's why I called them parasites.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 01:34 PM (Kfmqy)

266 255 Get a solar-powered flashlight.
---
Good idea.

Unless it's nuclear winter!
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:32 PM (qJtVm)

Goes great with a water-proof towel. Although there are solar chargers for flashlights, and there are those hand-crank flashlights as well that don't need batteries.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:34 PM (NWiLs)

267 Jean you're right about sanitation. One thing I didn't mention but try to be ready for. Substantial supply of wipes and gel hand cleaner kept in stock.

Have a backyard with ample places to dig a pit for disposal. Actually one missing thing is lyme - for sanitation/smells it is a good solution to pit disposal. It's available - but only in 50-lb bags, and I don't want anything like that amount to store. Maybe should just get one anyway, seal it well in plastic trash bags, store outside instead of garage.

And I don't think 10% of the people living here who have, in fact, given much thought to this topic and given any thought to the sanitation angle.

Posted by: Farshimmelt Alte-Kocker, AKA rhomboid at December 31, 2017 01:35 PM (Dhcvl)

268 If an EMT event happened it would be a small area near a nuclear blast.

The main fear is a solar EMT, which would be global. It wouldn't literally fry everything everywhere, but it would do severe damage to a lot and basically end electrical delivery for at least a few weeks.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:35 PM (39g3+)

269 It is kinda a movie review, everything these apocalypse movies characters should do but do

Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:35 PM (aC6Sd)

270 After Irma, my city of 800,000 didn't have working traffic lights for several days. It was complete and total anarchy on the road.

Posted by: JoeKenHa at December 31, 2017 01:36 PM (asGM3)

271 An inverter and an extension cord long enough to reach your sump pump is also a good idea; if you have a sump pump and no generator.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:36 PM (yM/Yl)

272 Where I live we lots of snow, but ice storms are the biggest headache. I lost power for 2 weeks, another storm 1 week etc. I have natural gas so my fireplace works minus fan. Kerosene heaters with a slightly open window, smelly, but provide heat and light. Emergency food kit, comes in a 5 gallon pail. But of course if the fat one drops a bomb, or the Yellowstone volcano goes off, not sure.

Posted by: Colin at December 31, 2017 01:36 PM (rgpGL)

273 @218 Leningrad is a facinating read, animals went first, pets next, dead relatives after that.
---------------

There's an unusual game called "This War of Mine". Apparently the developers of the game lived through the Siege of Sarajevo, and were inspired to create the game as a result.

The game is set in an unnamed Slavic city in a country currently undergoing a civil war. The government is fighting against a group of anti-government guerillas, and has cut off all entry and exit to the city. Or in other words, no supplies are getting in. You play a group of unrelated survivors living in a wrecked, abandoned house that they've taken over. At night, a survivor can visit one of a number of different locations in the city, and during the day they craft items and food that will hopefully help them to get through the siege.

And as one person once said about the game, just when you think you've got everything under control, winter hits, and the temperature drops to sub-zero levels.

For understandable reasons, the makers are strongly anti-war, so keep that in mind. I've ignored the expansions for the game (the first added kids, and they've released the first of what are supposed to be a series of more focused "narrative" expansions). But the core game itself is an interesting experience, and should definitely scare anyone who starts to get a bit too blas� about what might happen to them in the event that society breaks down.

The game includes nicotine addiction and caffeine addiction in its survivor traits. It doesn't model what eventually happens when you've got a mixed gender group that has lots of time on its hands.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:36 PM (+fHsM)

274 If the municipality lost water pressure, I'd be down there after 24 hours, beating on the door to see if there was anything I could do to get their shit back online.

Posted by: Fritz at December 31, 2017 01:36 PM (bJ0w+)

275 I know that you can buy a plastic bag that sits in your tub and you fill up the bad with water and you can cap off the bag. Some come with a pump so you can get the water out of the bag.

I know Truck stops sell the food that heats itself.

Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at December 31, 2017 01:36 PM (dKiJG)

276 ... when I establish my Frazetta-inspired post-snowpocalypse feudal society.
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 12:39 PM

One item you won't need is a lot of clothing.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at December 31, 2017 01:37 PM (DMUuz)

277 weather related disaster in the fall. Right now it would suck to have a wind storm blow branches through a window.
Posted by: fluffy

I was in a small city for the Ice Storm of 1998.
No power for 8 days, in January. Transformers make fireworks when they blow.

http://bangorinfo.com/Focus/
focus_ice_storm.html

Posted by: pogomip at December 31, 2017 01:37 PM (kTfpI)

278 I live in a heavily wooded area with above-ground cables due to high water table. I lost power for four days this last February.

I never touched the canned food except peaches and pears. I put my frozen foods in a cooler on the back deck (cooler to protect from animals). My gas stove and water heater kept working, so there was no need for campstove cooking or spong baths.

My black-out kit includes a solar-powered reading lamp, hand-cranked lantern and radio, batteries for clock and normal radio and flashlights, and emergency candles.

I have a body heat-retaining blanket and a sleeping bag for low temperatures. I'd like to get an indoor heater, but everything is so big, I wouldn't know where to store it.

Posted by: NaughtyPine at December 31, 2017 01:38 PM (G8B7r)

279 So here's what's in Eris's Magic Bug-Out Bag (Car):

Small bottles of Grey Goose

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:26 PM (qJtVm)

The most important item in your bag.

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 01:38 PM (Kfmqy)

280 If an EMT event happened it would be a small area near a nuclear blast.

The main fear is a solar EMT, which would be global. It wouldn't literally fry everything everywhere, but it would do severe damage to a lot and basically end electrical delivery for at least a few weeks.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor

It wont be for a few weeks, look at South Africa. The supply, and ability to manufacture, line and step-down transformers is very limited. We have no idea if the Carrington Event represents a common event in either a temporal or intensity measure.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:39 PM (yM/Yl)

281 even BEFORE things got really bad, the fat people were getting sick and dying, while the thin people were still relatively unscathed.

That was due to other factors I'd guess (like lack of sanitation, forced exercise, previous lifestyle etc). Fat by definition is a biological system by which you store energy for times when you aren't getting as regular and reliable amount of food. That's what its for.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:39 PM (39g3+)

282 Keep a cooler in your car for food items. It will moderate the temperature swings and keep stuff longer. Even MRE degrade in a trunk.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:40 PM (yM/Yl)

283 As for my own prepping preparations:

In truth, just as a normal way I live, I always have tons and tons of food stored away in drawers and larders and pantries in my house. At any given moment, I have enough food in my house to survive for at least a month, and probably a lot more. (I work in the food industry, so I get a lot of "samples" for various reasons). I actually rarely have to shop for "dry goods" -- only for fresh vegetables and dairy products. I got pasta and beans and PowerBars and cans and bottles and grains and pre-made exotic foreign dishes in vacuum-sealed bags and drinks and chocolate and oatmeal and olives and peanut butter and dried fruit and on and on -- none of which require refrigeration -- stowed all around my house. (One of my struggles is getting the "rotation" right - -always eating the oldest stuff first and putting any new acquisitions at the back of the queue).

As a result, in a major emergency, trust me, neither I nor my family will ever starve to death.

I don't do this as a "prepper" -- it's just the way my life got arranged by accident.

As for water -- well, I have enough liquids stored away for that too, but in a super-duper emergency, there's actually a lake nor too far away that would be a source of water for a very long time, if needed.

I'm set.

Posted by: zombie at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (42M22)

284 I've bookmarked this thread. This sort of thing is on the "to-do" list, and I could use the references.

Mind you, I suspect many of the SHTF scenarios end with me in a shallow grave, but I can at least put that ending off a while with proper planning...

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (lLeln)

285 wooga I just use plastic bottles (the large-ish ones, come in cartons of a dozen or so) for water storage. No long-term storage issue in most cases (that was discussed here once not long ago). Depending on your situation, water heater has 40+ gallons. Toilet tanks have a few gallons of fresh water.

Best to assume city water goes immediately in an earthquake, or becomes non-potable (backflow).

For that reason, instead of a filter, I got some calcium hypochlorate (powder, doesn't go weak like Clorox over time), thanks to the advice of some here. In SoCal there is no water when the power goes or the mains break, so purification really is only a question if you have intermittent or interrupted city water, which usually means non-potable due to sewerage backflow.

Have at least 2 weeks' supply of bottled water, more if possible, and wipes/gel cleaner for hand sanitation, since no water can go to that purpose.

Posted by: Farshimmelt Alte-Kocker, AKA rhomboid at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (Dhcvl)

286 One of the first things that happens often when things go horribly and terrifyingly wrong is execution of long grievances. People you don't like and have always annoyed you suddenly become reasonable targets for violent and permanent solution. Its kind of a priority list of self justification: who is okay for me to remove and take their stuff? Criminals, monsters, people that piss me off, strangers, locals I don't care about, family members I never liked....

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (39g3+)

287 Mine and my wife's EDC in our vehicles are several bottles of water, first aid kit, some none perishable food, a small pack with essential items like a life straw, toilet paper, waterproof matches, Flint and steel fire starter and clothes. Our pistols with extra mags and ammo are things we take everywhere we go, even if it's just to the local grocery store less than a mile from home.

As far as what we have home, well, we have been prepping since before Y2K. As someone else mentioned earlier, Honeyville has some really good freeze dried foods that are good for several years. They often have sales. The freeze dried Strawberries are particularly good. Just add water or not, they are good as is right out of the can. Buy them buy the case and they let you mix and match case lots. Just Google Honeyville.

Posted by: Traveling Man at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (R5lpX)

288 If an EMT event happened it would be a small area near a nuclear blast.

The main fear is a solar EMT, which would be global. It wouldn't literally fry everything everywhere, but it would do severe damage to a lot and basically end electrical delivery for at least a few weeks.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor

Big Buddy heater, shares gas with a stove. Much safer than others. It's not that big.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (yM/Yl)

289 even BEFORE things got really bad, the fat people were getting sick and dying, while the thin people were still relatively unscathed.
--------------------------------
That was due to other factors I'd guess (like lack of sanitation, forced exercise, previous lifestyle etc). Fat by definition is a biological system by which you store energy for times when you aren't getting as regular and reliable amount of food. That's what its for.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:39 PM (39g3+)

Nope. You're trying to logic your way out of the facts.

Here's the truth: If you are fat, you don't have nutrients in your body. You have fat. You can't live on fat. And it appears in times of lean, having more fat means you have more NEED for nutrients, because you have greater body mass.

Posted by: BurtTC at December 31, 2017 01:42 PM (Pz4pT)

290 We all wants to wish Presdent and Micheal Obama a Happy New Year and keep up the fight to stop Global Warming....

Posted by: Mary Clogginstien at December 31, 2017 01:42 PM (u54O2)

291 If the power went out for any significant period of time, that would truly suck because I would probably have to go buy a generator.

Posted by: Fritz at December 31, 2017 01:15 PM (bJ0w+)

If the power is out for any length of time, generators are the first to go around here.

Posted by: dartist at December 31, 2017 01:27 PM (nisXv)

Dartist has it right. You will likely not be able to find a generator after disaster strikes. You need to have it, and gas, beforehand.

We had an ice storm in 2008 that knocked out power for over two weeks. You couldn't find a generator within 150 miles, even though Home Depot and Lowe's did an admirable job of rushing them in by the truckload.

Posted by: cool breeze at December 31, 2017 01:42 PM (2cg7P)

292 @282 Keep a cooler in your car for food items. It will moderate the temperature swings and keep stuff longer. Even MRE degrade in a trunk.
------------------------------

Either that, or regularly rotate any emergency food that you keep there.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:43 PM (+fHsM)

293 Oh, and fun fact -

I was informed by someone living in the Tri-Cities area in Washington State that after Mt. St. Helens erupted, traffic in and out of the area was disrupted. So no food shipments to the supermarkets. The first two things to disappear off the store shelves were beer and potato chips.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (+fHsM)

294 Mind you, I suspect many of the SHTF scenarios end with me in a shallow grave, but I can at least put that ending off a while with proper planning...
Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 01:41 PM (lLeln)

Or at least make sure you have plenty of company.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (NWiLs)

295 Good grief, I'm halfway through the post and, well, I'm gonna die.

Posted by: Peaches at December 31, 2017 01:45 PM (14URa)

296 there's a formula of bleach per gal of water that will kill bacteria.

Just a few drops. Google is your friend.

Best is if you have forewarning you can fill buckets or containers prior.

And even after ward if you live on city water then it's supplied by gravity and if you are quick you can still get water for a while after the pumps shut down.

Posted by: jakee308 at December 31, 2017 01:45 PM (BgY3o)

297 Hey, I watched the Survivors on TV, I know everything now....

Posted by: Colin at December 31, 2017 01:45 PM (rgpGL)

298 Here's the truth: If you are fat, you don't have nutrients in your body. You have fat. You can't live on fat. And it appears in times of lean, having more fat means you have more NEED for nutrients, because you have greater body mass.

That's interesting, but again it assumes a time without any food input and hence utter starvation which is not what I was talking about.

I'm not using logic, I'm simply noting basic human biology. Its like a bear hibernating. Fat is your body storing up energy for emergencies, period. That's not some theory, its not some guesswork, that's 100% undisputed scientific fact.

Leningrad was a very interesting and useful study, but not exhaustive or exclusive. People starving has been happening for as long as humanity has existed, from death camps to sieges to famines, and the overall information does not indicate that having a layer of fat does not help you against low food incidents. Historically, across the data we have, its helpful in tough times.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:45 PM (39g3+)

299 It always comes down to eating people at the end.

Posted by: Monk at December 31, 2017 01:46 PM (g4lFK)

300 What are you prepping for?
Zombie or Socialist Apocalyptic
Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:10 PM

Doesn't zombie live in the epicenter of the soon-to-be Socialist Apocalypse?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at December 31, 2017 01:46 PM (DMUuz)

301 Jesus the Browns are hapless. I mean, I knew they were hapless but I didn't realize they were HAPLESS. SMH.

Posted by: joncelli, Deplorable Yet Fuzzy at December 31, 2017 01:46 PM (1FhAQ)

302 I was informed by someone living in the Tri-Cities area in Washington State that after Mt. St. Helens erupted, traffic in and out of the area was disrupted. So no food shipments to the supermarkets. The first two things to disappear off the store shelves were beer and potato chips.
Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (+fHsM)
---
Ha!

Didn't the ashfall wreak havoc on car engines?

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:46 PM (qJtVm)

303 OK, which one of you guys wrote this one?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FXZOMG/ref=rdr_kindle_ext_tmb

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:48 PM (W+kMI)

304 There is no reason for anyone not to have a good supply of canned food. Things like soup, chili, baked beans, vegetables, tuna, Spam, etc. They're cheap and all you have to do to "prep" is buy an extra can of something each time you go to the store and put it away. Before you know it, you'll have a stockpile that you could live on for weeks.

They don't go bad, either. I've eaten canned food that was years past the expiration date and it was perfectly good. The only way they would go bad is if the seal on the can was defective, and in that case they would spoil before the expiration date.

Since I live by myself, I always buy the smallest size can I can find. The jumbo cans don't do you any good if you have no way to keep the leftover portion from spoiling.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 01:48 PM (sdi6R)

305 295 Good grief, I'm halfway through the post and, well, I'm gonna die.
Posted by: Peaches at December 31, 2017 01:45 PM (14URa)
---
Run to your local biker bar, stat. Join a gang of roving marauders.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:49 PM (qJtVm)

306 Didn't the ashfall wreak havoc on car engines?

I don't recall any particular problems other than needing to replace filters.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:49 PM (39g3+)

307 @302 Didn't the ashfall wreak havoc on car engines?
----------------------

It's possible. The woman who told me about the eruption didn't mention that, though.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:49 PM (+fHsM)

308 after Mt. St. Helens erupted, traffic in and out of the area was disrupted. So no food shipments to the supermarkets. The first two things to disappear off the store shelves were beer and potato chips.
Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (+fHsM)
in aos terms that should have been beer and popcorn.

Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 01:49 PM (t2Uf9)

309 300 What are you prepping for?
Zombie or Socialist Apocalyptic
Posted by: Skip at December 31, 2017 01:10 PM

Doesn't zombie live in the epicenter of the soon-to-be Socialist Apocalypse?
------
Run, zombie, run!

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:50 PM (W+kMI)

310 Run to your local biker bar, stat. Join a gang of roving marauders.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:49 PM (qJtVm)
My main fear is that, since this place is ALL electric, a power failure would be really tough. Yet another reason to never let the jeep get below half a tank.

Posted by: Peaches at December 31, 2017 01:50 PM (14URa)

311 >>>Didn't the ashfall wreak havoc on car engines?

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes<<<

And paint jobs and siding. On the bright side, the street gutters were scrubbed clean.

Posted by: Fritz at December 31, 2017 01:50 PM (bJ0w+)

312 Reading a book right now which talks about the Warsaw ghetto and what happened. The SS and German army provided very little food for all of the
Jews in that place. Rats and other rodents was the meat that most ate.
I had hoped if Hillary's camps were set up they would have plenty of rats.

Posted by: Colin at December 31, 2017 01:50 PM (rgpGL)

313 @304 There is no reason for anyone not to have a good supply of canned food. Things like soup, chili, baked beans, vegetables, tuna, Spam, etc. They're cheap and all you have to do to "prep" is buy an extra can of something each time you go to the store and put it away. Before you know it, you'll have a stockpile that you could live on for weeks.
-----------------------

Also, #5 cans of dried goods. Think things like dried strawberries, etc... If you've got any LDS neighbors, they can probably hook you up quite inexpensively if you ask nicely. The schedule of what's available to purchase any given month might not be up to them, though.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:51 PM (+fHsM)

314 Ah, my Mag-Lite is working fine now. I guess the extreme cold was causing shrinkage?

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:52 PM (qJtVm)

315 301 Jesus the Browns are hapless. I mean, I knew they were hapless but I didn't realize they were HAPLESS. SMH.
-----
Well, as I, the faithful Bungles fan must say, there will always be next season.... But yeah, the Browns have had all the bad breaks in the season, and then some.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:52 PM (W+kMI)

316 http://bit.ly/2C3YXXS

New cable shows New York Times "reporter" Scott Shane handed over Cablegate's secret country by country publication schedule to the US government giving the State Department (then headed by Hillary Clinton) up to a week in advance to spin the revelations or create diversions.

Posted by: MISH McConnell at December 31, 2017 01:52 PM (y3aQB)

317 We are probably better prepared around here than most. Because earthquakes.

At the very top of our kit is a bottle of Bushmill's.

After a biq quake the urge to toast survival is irresistable.

Posted by: San Franpsycho at December 31, 2017 01:52 PM (EZebt)

318 @312 Reading a book right now which talks about the Warsaw ghetto and what happened. The SS and German army provided very little food for all of the
Jews in that place. Rats and other rodents was the meat that most ate.
---------------------

In the game I mentioned above, "This War of Mine", one of the first things that a smart player will do is build at least a couple of rat traps. Then you bait them with random stuff, and wait. Eventually, a couple of pieces of meat will appear in the trap. You put one of the pieces of meat into your food storage, and the other is used to bait the trap again.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:53 PM (+fHsM)

319 Communism and socialism are superior economic systems compared to capitalism, because capitalism promotes the oppression of fat people and the tyranny of healthy eating.

A PSA from

Posted by: The Brattleboro Wymyn's Health & Resource Center, and Department of Herstory, Gender & Sexuality Stu at December 31, 2017 01:53 PM (DMUuz)

320 Cans have the advantage of not being vulnerable to critters. I like dried foods a lot, particularly base materials like flour and pasta, beans, that kind of thing. But they have to be stored very well to protect them from critters, and some like flour are already carrying the eggs that eventually hatch. Having mice nibble into your rice and eat it all is very annoying. Those big cans are pretty critter-proof, just gotta keep them dry and reasonably controlled temperature so they don't rust or burst.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:53 PM (39g3+)

321 305 295 Good grief, I'm halfway through the post and, well, I'm gonna die.
Posted by: Peaches at December 31, 2017 01:45 PM (14URa)
---
Run to your local biker bar, stat. Join a gang of roving marauders.
----
Especially Lady Eris the She-Wolf's band of merry marauders. They will have chainmail bikinis and Grey Goose.

Posted by: exdem13 at December 31, 2017 01:54 PM (W+kMI)

322 312 Reading a book right now which talks about the Warsaw ghetto and what happened. The SS and German army provided very little food for all of the
Jews in that place. Rats and other rodents was the meat that most ate.
I had hoped if Hillary's camps were set up they would have plenty of rats.
Posted by: Colin at December 31, 2017 01:50 PM (rgpGL)

===

There was a great deal of smuggling over the wall.

Posted by: San Franpsycho at December 31, 2017 01:54 PM (EZebt)

323 The big story here was the blizzard of '93.

Before things got better, there were people burning furniture for heat. in a few cases, people carried those who had died outside, because there was no way for the bodies to be picked up by ambulance services, an no certainty when they would be able to.

Some folks were without power for weeks. Everything was down. The local amateur radio club was pressed into service for the hospital's communications. A member with a handi-talkie accompanied all of the key personnel.

In our house, hot-water heating system pipes froze.

It was bad. For those who missed it:
https://preview.tinyurl.com/qxar7dm

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 31, 2017 01:54 PM (y3sT9)

324 261 223 We always keep our cars' gas tanks at least half full, so at the very least we can use them to charge phones or enjoy a hit of AC, and of course bug out if we need to.
Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 01:22 PM (6HFDU)

I used to let my gas tank get almost empty before filling up, but several years ago I started filling it up when it gets down to 1/2 full. There is no point taking chances.
Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 01:33 PM (sdi6R)

Which reminds me, gas shortages can happen because of panics and hoarding too. A week or two after Harvey hit, San Antonio, which sustained zero damage from the storm, suffered a panic that caused gas stations to run out and huge lines to get gas. Some pipeline or something had been damaged by Harvey, and when people heard that they started hoarding gas.

Ironically, in my runs to the coast to check on Harvey damage, I was able to fill up there (not on the island where the gas stations were destroyed, but a little inland) and on the way back to San Antonio, so I didn't have to deal with gas shortages IN San Antonio.

Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 01:54 PM (6HFDU)

325 Re: the "head lights", I have a ballcap that has a pair of LED lights, switch, and battery in the bill. Not as good as the strap-on light (wait for it...) but has its uses. I recommend having one in each vehicle and in the house.

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 01:55 PM (lLeln)

326 We keep all our old quilts and such stashed and have a couple heavy duty staplers in case we need to block off our living area to a smaller space in the event of a heating emergency in weather like this. We have natural gas and I'm not worried so much about supply disruption as I am about a possible furnace malfunction.

Posted by: cfo mom at December 31, 2017 01:55 PM (RfzVr)

327 There was a great deal of smuggling over the wall.

There were people in there like the Eagle Pharmacy where a non Jew stayed in the ghetto and did business there, smuggling in supplies and medicine to help people as well.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:56 PM (39g3+)

328 . Not as good as the strap-on light (wait for
it...)
Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 01:55 PM

Cut. Jib.

ETA for the light?

Posted by: Lena at December 31, 2017 01:57 PM (DMUuz)

329
Marvin Lewis's continued employment as Bengals coach means he has some kind of blackmail over Mike Brown.

Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at December 31, 2017 01:58 PM (g1Dwc)

330 MRE? Malamutes Ready to Eat? Wonder how many of those I can fit in my trunk.

Posted by: Barack H Obama at December 31, 2017 01:58 PM (/qEW2)

331 Marvin Lewis's continued employment as Bengals coach means he has some kind of blackmail over Mike Brown.

Or maybe the ownership realizes that at least sometimes the coach is not the one to blame for a team's poor performance. Something the Yankees would do well to learn.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 01:59 PM (39g3+)

332
I've got a fair amount of prepper-type stuff and supplies here in the apartment. But my biggest problem is that it's not organized AT ALL. Like the high-end flexible solar panel, smart battery charger and boxes of multiple types of rechargeable batteries? I know it's all here somewhere, but I haven't the slightest frickin' idea where.

Posted by: IllTemperedCur at December 31, 2017 01:59 PM (eXA4G)

333 I've got a fair amount of prepper-type stuff and supplies here in the apartment. But my biggest problem is that it's not organized AT ALL. Like the high-end flexible solar panel, smart battery charger and boxes of multiple types of rechargeable batteries? I know it's all here somewhere, but I haven't the slightest frickin' idea where.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur
-------------

You'll have time on your hands later.

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 31, 2017 02:00 PM (c/EDo)

334 My main fear is that, since this place is ALL electric, a power failure would be really tough. Yet another reason to never let the jeep get below half a tank.
Posted by: Peaches

Harbor Freight has wool blankets, $12 or so.
I've got 4 rolled up with closed cell foam pads in the back of the truck.

Posted by: pogomip at December 31, 2017 02:01 PM (kTfpI)

335 55 Antibiotics are available as pet medicine

Posted by: MAxIE at December 31, 2017 02:01 PM (9TR2V)

336 Baby butt wipes are essential when unable to shower every few days. A basic camp shower with a black bag to warm up the water can be a luxury. An old style camping coffee percolator for the Coleman stove is a winner.

Posted by: Uncle Si at December 31, 2017 02:02 PM (sQyD6)

337
Unless my house is rendered unusable I am staying put in case of disaster.

Flooding is not happening, wind damage is possible but not TOO likely, that leaves snow accumulation, another possible but not very plausible.

Got a generator that will run the water system and heating plant. so I think for a month or two it's okay.

Posted by: irongrampa at December 31, 2017 02:03 PM (S/hVx)

338 I'm prepping to never be President. *hic*

Posted by: Ready For Hillary!!11!! at December 31, 2017 02:04 PM (Tyii7)

339 Last year I bought one of those 5 gallon pails of emergency rations. I have tried several of them, and actually not bad...In the army during field exercises we would have to eat field rations sometimes. (used to be called C or K rations, now MRE's) It was the army's way of getting rid of older almost expired food. I found them okay, but of course some always complain about everything.

Posted by: Colin at December 31, 2017 02:04 PM (rgpGL)

340 You can line your bathtub with visqueen and have many gallons of water available.

Posted by: Grump928(C) at December 31, 2017 02:05 PM (WbIyz)

341 It was bad. For those who missed it:
https://preview.tinyurl.com/qxar7dm
Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 31, 2017 01:54 PM (y3sT9)
---
I remember this one. I was in the Navy at the time and I was livid that the military folks still had to slip and slide their way into work (only to be sent home a few hours later) while the civvies got to phone in for leave. I got a call from a GS-15 who said "Sorry, 'vette don't so snow!"

A Canadian soldier said there was a big scandal in his home town that folks were stealing any generators that weren't chained down, including that of an elderly neighbor lady.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 02:05 PM (qJtVm)

342 My neighbor tossed out some solar powered walkway lights. I immediately snagged them. As I suspected, the batteries had simply gone bad.

I replaced the batteries and leave the lamps on a window sill, switched off. If the power abruptly fails, they are always at hand. In pitch black darkness, they actually provide plenty of portable or fixed light.

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 31, 2017 02:05 PM (9tO1t)

343 I think there's a different category than prepping in just car safety. If you live in blizzard country, then having water, blankets, etc in your car is not some kind of emergency planning but avoiding being an idiot.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 02:06 PM (39g3+)

344 You can't go wrong with butt wipes.

Posted by: Hope's Rolo at December 31, 2017 02:06 PM (Tyii7)

345 Regarding canned food: I have several manual can openers I inherited from my parents. But if I ever misplaced them:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oH2NahLjx-Y

Crazy Russian Hacker has a number of videos that are relevant to this thread.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 02:06 PM (sdi6R)

346 DO snow.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 02:06 PM (qJtVm)

347 Fishflex for instance is known as Keflex for human consumption.
A clever prepper always considers the needs of the pets.

Posted by: MAxIE at December 31, 2017 02:09 PM (9TR2V)

348 I have several of those little can openers that I first saw in the military. Your can put them on your key ring and they open just about anything.

Posted by: Colin at December 31, 2017 02:09 PM (rgpGL)

349 This is going to sound heartless, but pets in a desperate, awful disaster turn into a burden unless they can work or provide food. I love my kitty but he's gonna have to fend for himself if I'm starving. When everything goes horrendously wrong, if you don't work you don't eat.

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 02:11 PM (39g3+)

350 I replaced the batteries and leave the lamps on a window sill, switched
off. If the power abruptly fails, they are always at hand. In pitch
black darkness, they actually provide plenty of portable or fixed light.

I do the same thing, they're bright as can be. I like these because they're solar and can be charged via USB.

http://tinyurl.com/jqv5xux

Posted by: dartist at December 31, 2017 02:11 PM (nisXv)

351 I know this isn't a gum thread, but Ruger just announced a new 9mm carbine that's just right for preppers.

It accepts Ruger pistol magazines, but includes a module to allow the use of Glock magazines. I assume other modules will be sold later.

It also breaks down for easier transport. This gun makes so much sense, Ruger's going to sell a blue million of them.

It's just being released now, but it's available for pre-order for $520.

https://tinyurl.com/y8jeordu

Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at December 31, 2017 02:12 PM (398bZ)

352 Prep, I believe, should also take into account the area in which you live.

For instance, in the upper midwest, access to water probably isn't going to be an issue, but clean water might be. Probably need to plan accordingly.

Where I live, water is always an issue. Which is why I refuse to get freeze dried food. I can't see getting food that has to be reconstituted with water before eating. So, I go with canned food.

Also, I am against the large water storage units, because you're one leak (bullet hole) away from loosing all of your water. Best to have a bunch of smaller containers.

Also, my dogs are my early warning system, so, I try to make sure I've the food I need to keep the dogs fed.

One final thing: I never let my vehicle drop below half a tank because if I need to get out of Dodge, I probably won't have time to stop for gasoline.

Just a few of the things I've done.

Most of all, though, I've thought about "grid down" and recognized the possibility and taken some basic steps. Just the fact one is thinking about these kinds of things puts you well ahead of the average person.

Posted by: Blake at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM (WEBkv)

353
Something else to keep in mind, especially if you have to move (like you get caught away from home during the disaster) is the Gray Man Concept.

Basically, it's about being virtually invisible, not attracting any attention. It's one thing to have prep materials/clothes, it's another to have them not draw attention. The classic example is the 5.11 Concealed Carry Vest, also known as the "shoot me first vest".

Yes, I own one. No, I've never worn it.

Posted by: IllTemperedCur at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM (eXA4G)

354 This is going to sound heartless, but pets in a desperate, awful disaster turn into a burden unless they can work or provide food. I love my kitty but he's gonna have to fend for himself if I'm starving. When everything goes horrendously wrong, if you don't work you don't eat.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor

This depends on specifics. Cats can help keep down on vermin. Dogs have millennia of traditional ways to be of help. If your animal can be of help, find that way.

Otherwise, don't be shocked if they get viewed as "emergency meat supplies".

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM (lLeln)

355 A clever prepper always considers the needs of the pets.

Always stock the right marinade.

Posted by: Grump928(C) at December 31, 2017 02:15 PM (WbIyz)

356 power went out for any significant period of time, that would truly suck because I would probably have to go buy a generator.

3000W or 7000W?
Posted by: Fritz at December 31, 2017 01:15 PM (bJ0w+)

I have a Whole house generator 20kw and it even runs my AC for the house, it cost me 5 grand to install but it's worth it. It kicks on in 12 seconds when the power goes out.

My house is 3500 square feet I got it because the cost of getting a backup sump pump was costly but would eventually run out of battery. And at the time we were doing Fertility treatments and the drugs were needed to be in the refrigerator so that's how I got my HOA to let me install it.

You can get smaller House generators but then you have to choose what you want power to. You want your freezer and Refrigerator, Heater but you don't want your washer dryer on the circuit.

Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at December 31, 2017 02:15 PM (dKiJG)

357 I love my kitty but he's gonna have to fend for himself if I'm starving. When everything goes horrendously wrong, if you don't work you don't eat.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 02:11 PM (39g3+)
----
You'd better sleep with one eye open. Cats gotta eat, same as people.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 02:17 PM (qJtVm)

358 354
This depends on specifics. Cats can help keep down on vermin. Dogs have millennia of traditional ways to be of help. If your animal can be of help, find that way.

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM (lLeln)

That's a good point. Dogs and cats were helpful to humans long before they became regarded as pets.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 02:17 PM (sdi6R)

359 I bought a trifuel generator. Have tested and then drained the gasoline function. But I always have several backup propane tanks for the grill so beyond propane never gumming up. I can switch back to gasoline if it is easier to find. Have not bought the parts to hook it to the natural gas pipe at the house.

Posted by: X-ray at December 31, 2017 02:19 PM (QQ4UP)

360 Has anyone ever bought those USB Fire stoves that can charge your phone or batteries. It doubles as a stove or kettle depending on what you buy.

Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at December 31, 2017 02:19 PM (dKiJG)

361 Otherwise, don't be shocked if they get viewed as "emergency meat supplies".
Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM

* shocked face *

Posted by: Chinese Restaurant Assoc. at December 31, 2017 02:19 PM (DMUuz)

362 352
Just the fact one is thinking about these kinds of things puts you well ahead of the average person.
Posted by: Blake at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM (WEBkv)

Great point.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 02:20 PM (sdi6R)

363 I've got a fair amount of prepper-type stuff and supplies here in the apartment. But my biggest problem is that it's not organized AT ALL. Like the high-end flexible solar panel, smart battery charger and boxes of multiple types of rechargeable batteries? I know it's all here somewhere, but I haven't the slightest frickin' idea where.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at December 31, 2017 01:59 PM

I keep my emergency supplies and camping tools in my guest room. The chargeable flashlight is plugged in near the door, so I can see into the closet. The solar lamp is on the windowsill always ready.

Everything else is with the everyday items, The first aid kit is with toiletries in the bathroom. The sleeping bag with the blankets and linens. The filter masks, hatchet, and the like near my toolbox.

Posted by: NaughtyPine at December 31, 2017 02:22 PM (G8B7r)

364 I'd probably defend the pupster like I'd defend my kids.
He's my adopted baby now.
Nobody's making a Barack lunch special outta him.

Posted by: @votermom @vm pimping great books usually free or sale at December 31, 2017 02:23 PM (hMwEB)

365
I have a Sharper Image solar charger for my cellphone. Works remarkably well on sunny days. Not so much at night. About an hour to charge a phone under optimum conditions.

In the fat vs lean argument when the SHTF I'd think the lean person had the advantage. Lower caloric requirement to still feel energetic. Ability to walk around and do things like forage for food without exhaustion. This assumes a more rural environment.

Posted by: Acme Trucking Enterprises, White Truck Division at December 31, 2017 02:23 PM (2FqvZ)

366 I'm just gonna wing it

Posted by: Liberal in Cali at December 31, 2017 02:24 PM (gSwpy)

367 55 personally i would like to know how to obtain anti biotics, because my spouse becomes ill with everything now. but His HC is managed. and so extra is a no go. so what do others do?
Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017 12:32 PM (t2Uf9)

Aquarium supplies. Stuff like erythomicin, ampicillin, sulfa.

Posted by: Iron Mike Golf at December 31, 2017 02:24 PM (di1hb)

368
351 I know this isn't a gum thread, but Ruger just announced a new 9mm carbine that's just right for preppers.

It accepts Ruger pistol magazines, but includes a module to allow the use of Glock magazines. I assume other modules will be sold later.

It also breaks down for easier transport. This gun makes so much sense, Ruger's going to sell a blue million of them.

It's just being released now, but it's available for pre-order for $520.

https://tinyurl.com/y8jeordu
Posted by: Cloyd Freud, Unemployed at December 31, 2017 02:12 PM (398bZ)

Bringing back the old PC9, but upgraded. I approve.

That's going to be a great basic defense rifle for folks in the non-free states. And with the take-down action, a great trunk gun.

Now if they also come out with a 45 Auto version, that would be tits.

Posted by: IllTemperedCur at December 31, 2017 02:24 PM (eXA4G)

369 341 It was bad. For those who missed it:
https://preview.tinyurl.com/qxar7dm
Posted by: Mike Hammer

Ah yes. Thundersnow! Heck of a blizzard. I was on a winter camping trip. Snowshoes.

Posted by: pogomip at December 31, 2017 02:25 PM (kTfpI)

370 Farm prep supplies- 3 goats, 2 females, one male. They provide meat / milk and can survive on anything. Short gestation period and don't take up much space. They don't drink much water either.

Posted by: Ben Had at December 31, 2017 02:26 PM (Wtpev)

371 We have a smallish 3500 Watt generator, strictly for emergencies. My primary concern is the circulator pumps for the boiler, everything else is secondary. Hot water is gas fired (with pilot light!).

After hurricane Ivan came through, we were without water for 3 days, and without power for 5. While the neighbors were in darkness, we were watching TV with the lights on. I keep 15 gallons of gasoline on hand, which I rotate through the mower, weed eater, etc.

Having Mike Hammer's Cat, we buy litter in the ~3 gallon plastic jugs. I have thoroughly washed out 10 of the empties, and keep them stored in the event that we need to build a supply of water.

Everyone should read up on purifying water for drinking purposes. Plenty of filters out there, but I just keep bleach on hand.

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 31, 2017 02:26 PM (cp1if)

372 Basically, it's about being virtually invisible, not attracting any attention. It's one thing to have prep materials/clothes, it's another to have them not draw attention. The classic example is the 5.11 Concealed Carry Vest, also known as the "shoot me first vest".

Yes, I own one. No, I've never worn it.

Posted by: IllTemperedCur at December 31, 2017 02:13 PM (eXA4G)

Shoot me first vest. Heh. I was at an event once where Secret Service was present, including in the crowd. They were trying to blend in, I guess, but I IMMEDIATELY spotted one of them because he was wearing one of those vests. I further confirmed it by spotting the earpiece and the bulge from his sidearm.

Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 02:27 PM (NWiLs)

373 Have not bought the parts to hook it to the natural gas pipe at the house.
Posted by: X-ray
---------------

Yes, dammit. I've been meaning (for years) to get a natural gas carb for my generator.

Posted by: Mike Hammer, etc., etc. at December 31, 2017 02:30 PM (cp1if)

374 364 I'd probably defend the pupster like I'd defend my kids.
He's my adopted baby now.
Nobody's making a Barack lunch special outta him.
Posted by: @votermom @vm pimping great books usually free or sale at December 31, 2017 02:23 PM (hMwEB)

I think there was an apocalyptic novel I haven't read that had a part where people were eating their pets, or each other's pets.

I would defend my kitteh against anyone else, and if it was just the two of us, I guess we'd starve together. Especially since I don't know the first thing about butchering animals.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 02:30 PM (sdi6R)

375 I have no delusions as to my fitness for survival in the long term. I will have purpose either as labor or as food.

I would pair me with an insouciant fruit-focused red like a Cote du Rhone or perhaps a smoky Malbec.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 02:32 PM (qJtVm)

376 Be sure to pick up a copy of Pow Wow Chow.

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at December 31, 2017 02:32 PM (IqV8l)

377
I understand and mostly have all the prepper items listed (and more) but,

Why the dash cam?

Posted by: Spun and Murky at December 31, 2017 02:37 PM (4DCSq)

378 A small container of pool shock will keep for a very long time in your garage and would purify a massive amount of water in an emergency.

Posted by: Grump928(C) at December 31, 2017 02:37 PM (WbIyz)

379 Why the dash cam?
Posted by: Spun and Murky at December 31, 2017 02:37 PM (4DCSq)

For entertainment purposes?

Posted by: Traveling Man at December 31, 2017 02:38 PM (R5lpX)

380 It's not just pets that would be under the bus in an End of the World as we Know It scenario; it would also be the elderly and those with serious long term health problems.

That's why I'll never bother to plan for that. I wouldn't survive it no matter what. My planning is only for regional and short term disasters.

Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 02:40 PM (6HFDU)

381 How to Use Pool Shock to Purify Water

http://bit.ly/2lsHhi5

Posted by: Grump928(C) at December 31, 2017 02:43 PM (WbIyz)

382 Y'all have given me some great ideas. Thanks!

Posted by: Jake Holenhead at December 31, 2017 02:43 PM (Kfmqy)

383 A small container of pool shock will keep for a very long time in your garage and would purify a massive amount of water in an emergency.

Posted by: Grump928(C) at December 31, 2017 02:37 PM (WbIyz)

Agreed. You can make an incredible amount of bleach from one of those bags. I buy them at Lowe's year round. Most hardware stores may have put them 'in the back' right now but you can still buy them.

I'm thinking of making my own still. I'm sure somebody on the internet has some ideas. Distilled water, distilled spirits. If the SHTF could be a good barter opportunity.

Posted by: Acme Trucking Enterprises, White Truck Division at December 31, 2017 02:45 PM (2FqvZ)

384 A couple of things to add to your trunk:

1) Some kind of medical kit.
2) A small, fold-up camp shovel.

You may need to dig yourself out of something, or bury a body.

Posted by: Mr_Fastbucks at December 31, 2017 02:45 PM (4xZi9)

385 Nood, although I guess most of you figured it out since it got quiet in here.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 02:45 PM (sdi6R)

386 2) A small, fold-up camp shovel.
---
Yep.

*shift eyes*

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 02:47 PM (qJtVm)

387 We have an ideal bug out location, that will eventually be our full time home. Defendable hilltop, hard to locate, livestock, water source, space for food storage, lots of firewood.
Besides an adequate source of medicine for long term, the biggest problem is getting there when SHTF. I've had to do a lot of scouting for off the main path routes, and none will be easy. Can't wait until the day comes when we live there year round.

Posted by: That Deplorable SOB Van Owen at December 31, 2017 02:50 PM (gRjxh)

388 380 It's not just pets that would be under the bus in an End of the World as we Know It scenario; it would also be the elderly and those with serious long term health problems.

That's why I'll never bother to plan for that. I wouldn't survive it no matter what. My planning is only for regional and short term disasters.
Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 02:40 PM (6HFDU)

--------------------------------------

Same here.

Posted by: Blake at December 31, 2017 02:51 PM (WEBkv)

389 For someone in an urban apartment I think the smartest option for the medium term is to shelter in place. Top floor of a high rise is best with access to the roof for water collection. Easily defensible once you get control of the floor. (Pro tip: store enough food/weapons for your neighbours so they can become your militia rather than your enemies.)

The building will empty out rapidly once water runs out and you're not a visible target from the street. After the first few weeks, no one is going to climb 23 floors on spec, especially if the lower levels are already picked clean.

To me this makes more sense than holing up in a rural compound which essentially means putting a target on your back.

Posted by: Haithabu at December 31, 2017 02:51 PM (xs0Zq)

390 That's why I'll never bother to plan for that. I wouldn't survive it no matter what. My planning is only for regional and short term disasters.
Posted by: stace at December 31, 2017 02:40 PM

I plan for the same. In a country-shaking disaster, the only long-term survivors in my area will be the Amish and people with survivalist houses. Ironically, my most frothing Trump-hating friend has a house like that which she bought from a family headed to South Dakota. Her dad also taught her to shoot and she inherited a rifle or three. Perhaps she'll let me live with her and tend the gardens and gather seeds!

Posted by: NaughtyPine at December 31, 2017 02:53 PM (G8B7r)

391 Well, plenty of ammo here. Usual outdoor/sports gear for hunting.

60-80 lbs of propane on hand at any time. 5-10 gal of kerosene.

Toilet flushing water is 1/4 mile down the road (flood control dam with lake). Lake and a park pond are stocked. Plenty of fowl (permanent resident Canadian geese. 100+ flock hang out at the lake). Whitetail in the park behind my property. We keep 10-20 gal of water in milk and OJ jugs. Rotated in and out by using it for the pup's drinking water.

I should get a 7-10 kw generator to power fridge and freezer, but we could get by for a good while.

Not set for a bug out. No need at the moment, weather-wise where we live.

Posted by: Iron Mike Golf at December 31, 2017 03:03 PM (di1hb)

392
302 I was informed by someone living in the Tri-Cities area in Washington State that after Mt. St. Helens erupted, traffic in and out of the area was disrupted. So no food shipments to the supermarkets. The first two things to disappear off the store shelves were beer and potato chips.
Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (+fHsM)
---
Ha!

Didn't the ashfall wreak havoc on car engines?
Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 01:46 PM (qJtVm)

Recommendation was put pantyhose over the air intake or around air filter and clean regularly. Being cheap, asked various women for donations. Asking strangers not recommended.

Posted by: Headless Body of Agnew at December 31, 2017 03:11 PM (e1mEI)

393 This is going to sound heartless, but pets in a desperate, awful disaster turn into a burden unless they can work or provide food. I love my kitty but he's gonna have to fend for himself if I'm starving. When everything goes horrendously wrong, if you don't work you don't eat.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor

This depends on specifics. Cats can help keep down on vermin. Dogs have millennia of traditional ways to be of help. If your animal can be of help, find that way.

Otherwise, don't be shocked if they get viewed as "emergency meat supplies".
Posted by: Brother Cavil

Sheep to manage the firebreak are dual purpose.

Posted by: Jean at December 31, 2017 03:11 PM (yM/Yl)

394 I live in Alaska. We routinely run out of availability of stuff. Not to worry--we manage our life like preppers as routine.

Sometimes the barges don't make it up from Seattle. Sometimes an avalanche shuts down the only highway in or out.

We hunt, we fish, we smoke meat and fish and can it. We can go for a very long time without. We cut wood and keep the fireplaces clean.

We also keep part of the yard away from the dogs, in case we need to melt snow.

Gotta think ahead. Not too much of a problem.

Posted by: tcn in AK at December 31, 2017 03:16 PM (NXsWM)

395 Damn, I'm late to the party here. I'll drop a few links, though:

If you're thinking about putting together a bugout bag (which I highly recommend) one of the considerations you need to make is the possibility that you might have to get out on foot. Ergo, weight is a consideration. Here's a site where you can put together the items you want and it calculates the weight of everything: http://www.ebugout.com/

Yes, you can buy all the items through them (it's just an Amazon store someone set up), but obviously their build a bag tool is handy and you can buy elsewhere, at your leisure.

The other link speaks to the networking and learning side, specifically for those of you in the Southeast (others are, of course, welcome to join us): seprepnet.com

Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:16 PM (yzxic)

396 If you have a septic system, that's where the slit trench goes.

Carry a 6x6x2 zippered bag on the belt. Contains fire,meds,knife,flashlight,firstaid and energy bars. Still looking for dehydrated water to add.

Posted by: Headless Body of Agnew at December 31, 2017 03:17 PM (e1mEI)

397 Way late to this thread, maybe there's a new post above it already, but:

Here in the Spokane/Cd'A area, the likely emergencies are a power outage, maybe for a week or more, and a catastrophic urban fire (seriously, extension agents I've talked to regard that as a real threat).

For an evacuation, I don't have a plan. I should but I just haven't gotten around to it yet. First thing, I'd grab my rucksack and as many family as are home. The rucksack is the one I carry while fishing or going for day-long walks in the woods.

Everyday carry: keys, 1 or 2 flashlights (a tiny one and a "combatlight"), 1 or two knives (1 folder, one fixed), phone, wallet, one or two bandannas, pencil, pen, notepad. All this goes in trouser pocket and in my vest (Summer) or coat (Winter).

Shelter in place: some water, some food, much wood for the woodstove, and lots of the sundries that I have for everyday living but would be essential in an emergency, such as duct tape, cable ties, plastic sheeting, non-electric hand tools, etc.

Work takes me into the woods, so I carry the tools I need for what I'm doing that day. I also carry a tourniquet, Israeli bandage, and some QuickClot in a "blowout" kit. If I only need a bandage then I'll get one when I get to the truck. If a tree falls on me then I'm SOL. If I get hurt badly, then maybe the blowout kit will get me to the truck and my phone.

Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at December 31, 2017 03:17 PM (iMO2e)

398 Has anyone ever bought those USB Fire stoves that
can charge your phone or batteries. It doubles as a stove or kettle
depending on what you buy.

Posted by: Patrick From Ohio at December 31, 2017 02:19 PM (dKiJG)

I haven't bought one, but I have seen one in action at our last Southeast Preppers campout. It seems to work pretty well, but I'm not sure how packable it is; it seems a little bulky if you're planning one carrying it in a bugout bag.

Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:22 PM (yzxic)

399 Go to inhousepharmacy.vu. They have antibiotics. I get prednisone from them. Many of the meds are from NZ or Australia. They are reliable to order from. Our government blocks the use of debit/credit cards but they do electronic checks.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at December 31, 2017 03:24 PM (Lqy/e)

400 Some other thoughts:

1: I need to write more for my blog.

b) Maps! Have multiple routes planned out in advance. I get my maps from mytopo.com, as you can customize the areas they cover and get them in water resistant form.

Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:25 PM (yzxic)

401 Does anyone keep Iodine or something to take in case if a Fukuoshima or Chernobyl event? I have iodine fir water purification but I read that protecting your thyroid calls for a special kind.

Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at December 31, 2017 03:26 PM (iMO2e)

402 A Canadian soldier said there was a big scandal in
his home town that folks were stealing any generators that weren't
chained down, including that of an elderly neighbor lady.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 02:05 PM (qJtVm)

I heard of that happening during Katrina. Guy went to bed with his generator running. Woke up and could hear it running, but no power. Went outside to see what the problem was and discovered his generator gone and an old lawnmower sitting in its place and running.

Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:28 PM (yzxic)

403 Does anyone keep Iodine or something to take in case
if a Fukuoshima or Chernobyl event? I have iodine fir water
purification but I read that protecting your thyroid calls for a special
kind.

Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at December 31, 2017 03:26 PM (iMO2e)

I keep a supply of this on hand: https://tinyurl.com/y9bfa45h

Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:30 PM (yzxic)

404 178 176 Well when shit goes sideways all you guys can come to WeaselAcres and live among the pine trees.
Posted by: Weasel at December 31, 2017 01:05 PM (Sfs6o)
We can go all Euell Gibbons and eat bark.
Posted by: Insomniac - Bah humbug! at December 31, 2017 01:06 PM (NWiLs)

That's funny but it reminds me. Around here the "starving time" is after the winter's food stores run out, but before the new spring forageables are ready. That's about the same time the sap rises in the conifers, and the bark slips off the wood easily for a week or two. There's enough human-digestable calories in the cambium to keep body and sould together for a little while, at least. It's true for Doug-fir, Larch, Ponderosa pine, and a few of the other species in the Northwest.

Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at December 31, 2017 03:31 PM (iMO2e)

405 I heard of that happening during Katrina. Guy went to bed with his generator running. Woke up and could hear it running, but no power. Went outside to see what the problem was and discovered his generator gone and an old lawnmower sitting in its place and running.
Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:28 PM (yzxic)
---
Bastards. Why can't they channel that kind of cunning into something productive instead of stealing other people's stuff?

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at December 31, 2017 03:32 PM (qJtVm)

406 Thanks for sharing your ideas. This was particularly useful to me because I also live near the coast in South Florida and went through Frances, Jean and Wilma.

Honestly, the worst part of being out of power in South Florida is the heat and humidity. It's unbearable. In the future, I'll just go stay with relatives or friends outside the cone.

Posted by: girldog at December 31, 2017 03:34 PM (g5YYQ)

407
"By the way, 2-liter soda bottles are teh bomb for storing elbow macaroni, beans, rice, corn, coffee beans, sugar or anything else that will flow through the neck.
They are sturdy, they are manageable, they are resealable, and even better there is huge numbers of options for storage. "

This is only an option for about a year, two at the most. Pinto beans in particular turn into little rocks and cannot be soaked, pressured cooked or in any other way be made edible. Rice will get stale. TRUST ME!! The plastic bottles admit air. Air is the enemy. For any extended storage, you have to use mylar bags with O2 absorbers. Don't try to mylar anything that contains any fat, or any baking powder.
I'm a survivor of both Camille and Katrina, and I take this stuff seriously. Things happen. Be ready.

Posted by: Miss Sippi at December 31, 2017 03:37 PM (STXB7)

408 Another thought: short term cold storage.

Rotomold coolers are great. Yeti is the best-known yes, they are extremely pricey. However, there are knock-off brands that work just as well. I got one of these several months ago because I was tired of running out of ice after two days while camping: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071GD8FBW/

Sucker held ice for five days, even with me getting into it several times a day to retrieve items.

Posted by: Country Singer at December 31, 2017 03:38 PM (yzxic)

409 Ash got in through the air filters. Over time, it ground down the cylinder walls. Some people did have to replace engines. I was due south (and worked in the red zone). We didn't get ash that bad. Game wardens in the area turned a blind eye to poaching for a few weeks after. The deer coming down had lungs full of ash and would have died anyway.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at December 31, 2017 03:52 PM (Lqy/e)

410 Does anyone keep Iodine or something to take in case
if a Fukuoshima or Chernobyl event? I have iodine fir water
purification but I read that protecting your thyroid calls for a special
kind.

Posted by: The Inexplicable Dr. Julius Strangepork at December 31, 2017 03:26 PM (iMO2e)

I bought a couple 14 packs of iosat to put in my emergency med bag. Most everything like the QuikClot and Tourniquets I hope I never need.

Posted by: X-ray at December 31, 2017 03:54 PM (QQ4UP)

411 Utah is prepper land, so it feels normal out here. Tons of stores specialize in it, and freeze drying food or canning is huge. There are several companies, like Shelf Reliance or Thrive Life, that cater to Mormons who feel like a full pantry with a year's worth of food storage, plus cleanliness, is close to godliness.

My mom gifts a prepper item every year for Christmas. I've gotten from her over the years a 72 hour kit in a backpack for my house, a 72 hour kit for work in a mini duffel bag, a full emergency first aid kit, food etc. Very thoughtful! This year was freeze dried meals.

In general for my apt, I have gallons jugs of water, extra canned or boxed food in pantry, my 72 hour kit from momma, emergency stuff in trunk of car, extra blankets, etc. Never figured out prepper stuff for pets, but hopefully the cat can fend for himself till I do.

Posted by: LizLem at December 31, 2017 03:58 PM (079lL)

412 Amusingly, food nood up.

Posted by: Brother Cavil, this space for rent! Call 1-800-MORON-AD for details! at December 31, 2017 04:00 PM (lLeln)

413 Biggest thing I worry about in Utah is flooding and earthquakes. All of the main valleys here in the north used to be the bed of a giant ocean. They claim if we have a big enough earthquake, the valley floors will turn into giant beds of quicksand. Yeah I'm not sure how to prep for that contingency

Lots of rope and a dread pirate nearby?

Posted by: LizLem at December 31, 2017 04:07 PM (079lL)

414 Dr Julius I use Lugol's iodine, if that helps!

Posted by: LizLem at December 31, 2017 04:08 PM (079lL)

415 161 Prep all you want, you're still fucked
Posted by: Randall Flagg at December 31, 2017 01:01 PM (gC2IV)

Ultimately, everybody is.
It doesn't mean you quit.
Especially if there are people depending on you.

Posted by: rayj at December 31, 2017 04:21 PM (qyUzy)

416 293
I was informed by someone living in the Tri-Cities area in Washington State that after Mt. St. Helens erupted, traffic in and out of the area was disrupted. So no food shipments to the supermarkets. The first two things to disappear off the store shelves were beer and potato chips.
Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (+fHsM)

During Hurricane Katrina, when the city of New Orleans opened the Superdome to flood victims, they were told to bring their own food as none was available inside the Superdome. Apparently a lot of them showed up with a bottle of soda and a bag of chips.

Posted by: rickl at December 31, 2017 04:22 PM (sdi6R)

417 the stuff for radiation is KI tablets
if you live near a nuclear plant you can get them from local gubmint

Posted by: @votermom @vm pimping great books usually free or sale at December 31, 2017 04:39 PM (hMwEB)

418 Kind of overlooking the emergency bourbon ration, aren't we?

Posted by: Sam Adams at December 31, 2017 04:41 PM (VDbGO)

419 302
I was informed by someone living in the Tri-Cities area in Washington
State that after Mt. St. Helens erupted, traffic in and out of the area
was disrupted. So no food shipments to the supermarkets. The first two
things to disappear off the store shelves were beer and potato chips.

Posted by: junior at December 31, 2017 01:44 PM (+fHsM)

---

Ha!

Didn't the ashfall wreak havoc on car engines?

Most cars back then had carburetors instead of fuel injection.
Took the air filter off my Ford E-150 van, put a half dozen big coffee filters over it, and put the air filter housing back on.

Had to drive slow because the filters limited the air intake, and had to stop every ten miles or so to empty the trapped ash that went into the layers of filter. But it worked just fine, and changed the oil the following week. Ran the van for nearly 200,000 miles after that.

My brother was attending Washington State University, located downwind from the Tri-Cities. When the mountain blew and the press first said "O NO, STAY INDOORS OR YOU WILL DIE!!!, like you can imagine, he got 3 friends to borrow as much cash as they could and bought out the beer from grocery stores, taverns, etc as they could before it hit.

They then sold it for 10x what they paid for it. Some students bitched as they handed over their money, most of it wasn't even cold any more.

It paid for a semester of tuition, as well as a multi-day drink fest for free.

Posted by: LeftCoast Dawg at December 31, 2017 05:37 PM (UsCnO)

420 All these are wonderful and practical ideas if you survive the roving hoards that will kill you for what you have.

Posted by: David Brown at December 31, 2017 05:58 PM (z2vlJ)

421 A roll of Flex Seal, it aint no joke, and a set of Goodyear AT Kevlars with the F250 6.7L diesel 4wd attachment

Posted by: roger smith at December 31, 2017 06:46 PM (Hf+YX)

422 Surprised nobody talked about Boy Scout skillz. The BSA can help prepare people for much of this stuff, since you are basically talking about camping.

Wife went a bit nutty and bagged up a few 5 gallon food grade buckets with beans and rice and such, just in case.

We could outfit a few families with tents and sleeping bags and stoves.

Plus, if you are into tailgating you already have a full kitchen ready to go plus a generator.

I just need to buy more ammo. That stuff aint' cheap...

Posted by: Special Ed at December 31, 2017 07:22 PM (28ug+)

423 Regarding your hurricane prep gallon water jugs: we fill them and put them in the freezer ahead of time. If/when power goes out they will help keep the freezer temperature at freezing so we don't lose food. Minimize opening the freezer door, and your 5-7 jugs will be good for keeping food frozen for several days easily without power.

Additionally, we looked into getting a tank-less water heater, but decided against it because (a) the energy savings are just barely there, since insulation of the tank systems nowadays is much improved, and (b) it's a source of 60 gallons of potable water that you don't have with a tank-less system.

Posted by: LCMS Rulz! at December 31, 2017 07:41 PM (o7l6R)

424 82 i''l ask again, my spouse becomes easily now, has several bouts with cellulitis, but had c diff. and sepsis. So what do i do in those circumstances?
Posted by: willow at December 31, 2017

You might get a bottle of nano (non-colloidal) silver and see if it helps any of all that, before TEOTWAWKI. I like using it as a face and foot spray, and find that it's pretty useful for heading off bad reactions to food that is maybe not as fresh as is ideal. And it stores well (if kept out of the sun).

Look up St George Nano Silver.

Posted by: FeatherBlade at December 31, 2017 08:16 PM (lIX99)

425 they were told to bring their own food as none was available inside the Superdome. Apparently a lot of them showed up with a bottle of soda and a bag of chips.

"They knew they were going to just eat other people"
--Shep Smith

Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at December 31, 2017 08:53 PM (39g3+)

426 We missed a global Carrington -type event by two weeks in 2012. The event happened, but it went through earth orbit two weeks from where the earth was.

Much of the US grid could be taken out with little effort.Test runs have been made on a few substations. Some key transformers are no longer made in the US, and have an 18 month lead time.

A Carrington-type event is estimated to cause a 90% die-back in North America over three years.

When the burning times come, lot of folks will head for the pharmacies. If you need stuff, head for the Vetrinary offices instead.

Don't get your survival books on Kindle

Posted by: Old Toby at December 31, 2017 09:50 PM (W+I/H)

427 i'm a Boy Scout leader with a garage full of camping gear, stoves, fuel, lanterns, etc. Also an emergency generator and a well that I can run off the generator. As well as means to hold off anyone less prepared who decides that he will survive by taking my preparations from me.

Posted by: RonF at December 31, 2017 10:22 PM (28zW2)

428 A hint for drug storage. Take a jar that seals well (e.g., a glass jar with a metal top and a functioning gasket. Put about a 1" - 2" layer of calcium chloride deicing pellets in it. Put the drug containers in it. Put it in your freezer. The drugs inside will degrade a LOT more slowly than at room temperature and humidity.

Posted by: RonF at December 31, 2017 10:26 PM (28zW2)

429 If you haven't been to the dentist in a while, and even if you don't have any noticable problems, go now. Toothaches are crippling during the best of times and you don't need that during troubled times. Plus mouth infections can make the entire body septic.

Posted by: Mongerel at January 01, 2018 06:10 AM (QkRei)

430 Recent weather in the Deep South was our last emergency we got an unheard of measured 12 inches of snow. This area has NO SNOW PLOWS is rural and we spent three days at the house. Lucky we never lost power.
But all the camping gear was out waiting if it did.
The Daughter in law had nothing no power stuck in house no emergency supplies. Two adults, six kids and a collection of salt water fish.
The kids under 12 four exactly were adventurous but cold, the kid 12 and older were cold and bored.
No cell service, internet no land lines and the eight tropical fish all died.
She has been advised before to take steps.
Maybe four days without will change her views.

Posted by: obsidian at January 01, 2018 12:51 PM (ARK2U)

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