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About and accountAbout Rob BensonWho I am, my mission, and where I post.CompoundsActivated CharcoalUltra-porous carbon that traps substances on its vast surface. Used to bind some swallowed toxins, as a traditional drawing poultice for bites and...RecipesActivated charcoal for poison ingestion or digestive illnessActivated charcoal works by trapping toxins in millions of microscopic pores before your body can absorb them.SuppliesAlcohol (Spirits)Alcohol (Spirits): real shelf life Indefinite when stored well.RecipesMemberAlcohol Stove and FuelAn alcohol stove is the simplest cooker there is: a small metal cup that holds alcohol and burns it as a ring of jet flames under your pot, with no...RecipesMemberAlkaline cleaning paste (borax, baking soda, washing soda)Baking soda is one of the gentlest abrasives available: hard enough to scour stuck-on food and grease, but soft enough that it will not scratch...Reference chartsMemberAll 33 compounds at a glance (quick reference table)Shelf life, the best container, and the main uses for every compound in the guide, each linked to its full chapter.RecipesMemberAll-Purpose Liquid Castile Soap from BarGrate a bar of castile soap into hot water and it melts into a soft, gel-like liquid soap for hands, dishes, laundry, and cleaning. It will not...RecipesAll-purpose surface cleaner (pine, cinnamon, vinegar)A vinegar-based cleaner infused with foraged evergreen needles and boosted with citric acid handles everyday cleaning without commercial products,...GuidesAmerican wild plum tree (Colorado wild plums)How to identify the American wild plum in Colorado by habitat, leaf, flower and fruit, and why not to eat the pits.SuppliesAmmunition by caliber (.22LR to .308)A reference to ten common calibers from .22LR to .308 with bullet weight, type, usage, velocity and energy, plus how bullet weight affects shooting.GuidesAmmunition storage for long shelf lifeHow to store ammunition so it stays reliable: temperature, humidity, metal vs plastic ammo cans, seals, desiccant packs, inspection and rotation.RecipesMemberAnimal pen and coop cleaner (vinegar)A diluted white vinegar cleaner for coops, pens, nest boxes, feeders and waterers that removes residue and ammonia odor without toxic residue.RecipesMemberAnt and Roach Bait Using BoraxA slow-acting colony killer that foragers carry back to the nest before they die.RecipesMemberAnti-Chafing and Rash Prevention PowderChafing starts as simple friction and quickly turns into raw, stinging skin that can slow you down and let infection in. A light dusting of plain...RecipesMemberAntifungal Foot SoakA warm boric acid soak makes the skin a hard place for fungus to grow, calming the itch and sting of athlete's foot while it keeps the feet clean...RecipesMemberAntiseptic Skin & Foot Soak (Condy's)When skin weeps, oozes, or blisters and will not dry out, a pale-pink potassium permanganate soak is the traditional remedy: it dries the weeping,...CompoundsAscorbic AcidVitamin C in shelf-stable powder form. A daily supplement that also stops cut produce from browning, preserves food, and removes the chlorine taste...RecipesMemberAscorbic acid dip to keep cut fruit and vegetables from browningThe moment you cut into an apple, pear, or peach, the exposed flesh starts turning brown.RecipesMemberAscorbic acid to dechlorinate water and supply vitamin CAscorbic acid powder gives you a shelf-stable vitamin C source and a simple way to neutralize chlorine in treated drinking water.
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GuidesBackup internet with Starlink Mini and portable powerA running list of ways to power a Starlink Mini off-grid, with plan costs, the Standby Mode downgrade, and runtimes from a pocket power station.CompoundsBaking SodaThe most versatile powder in the book: antacid, cleaner, deodorizer, leavening, fire suppressant, and the raw material for stronger washing soda.RecipesMemberBaking soda ant barrier and cockroach baitTwo uses of baking soda for insects: a dry line to disrupt ant trails and a 1 to 1 sugar or flour bait for cockroaches.RecipesMemberBaking soda bath for itchy, irritated skinWhen irritation covers large areas of skin, spot treatments are not practical.RecipesBaking soda deodorizer for enclosed spaces and surfacesWhen living spaces, stored gear, and clothing cannot be washed regularly, odor builds fast and affects morale, sleep, and comfort.RecipesMemberBaking soda drink for inflammation and joint painDosing for a baking soda and water drink used for chronic inflammation, joint pain and stiffness, with daily limits and who should avoid it.RecipesMemberBaking soda drink for urinary burning (temporary relief)A short-term baking soda drink that some people find eases mild urinary burning when medication or care is not available; it is a comfort measure...RecipesMemberBaking soda field scrub for body odorHow to use baking soda as a dry deodorant, a scrub paste or an oil-based deodorant cream when soap and showers are not available.RecipesMemberBaking soda foot soak for odor, itch and athlete's footFoot problems are common in extended outdoor or survival situations. This warm soak eases foot odor, itching, and the discomfort of athlete's foot.GuidesBaking soda for body care (pH, muscles, teeth, odor)Baking soda doses and methods for stomach acidity, muscle recovery, oral care and underarm odor, plus why it is not a joint pain remedy.RecipesBaking soda for heartburn and stomach acidityBaking soda is one of the fastest-acting antacids available because it neutralizes hydrochloric acid in your stomach almost instantly.RecipesBaking soda for small grease and electrical firesWater spreads grease fires and conducts electricity, making it dangerous for kitchen and electrical emergencies.RecipesMemberBaking soda for teeth and gumsBaking soda's mild alkalinity neutralizes the acids that mouth bacteria produce and soothes inflamed tissue, making it a workable stand-in for both...RecipesBaking soda leavening and baking powder substituteCommercial baking powder is just baking soda mixed with an acid and a stabilizer, and it loses potency within 1 to 2 years.RecipesMemberBaking soda paste, compress and soak for itching, rashes and bitesBites, stings, and contact rashes flare and itch for hours, and a baking soda paste is a reliable kitchen substitute when antihistamine cream runs...RecipesBaking soda surface cleaner and scrubHow to use dry baking soda or a baking soda paste to clean counters, cookware, sinks and other hard surfaces without harsh chemicals.GuidesBarter items to stockA category-by-category list of easy-to-trade goods to stock for a time when money loses value, from food and medical supplies to compounds.RecipesBattery terminal cleaner (vinegar)Leaking alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) deposit potassium hydroxide on terminals and contacts, creating a crusty white or blue-green residue...RecipesMemberBed Bug and Flea Treatment for Living SpacesBed bugs and fleas are notoriously resistant to chemical pesticides, but they have no defense against physical desiccation.SuppliesBeef JerkyBeef Jerky: real shelf life 2 years when stored well (Cool, dry).SuppliesBeef TallowBeef Tallow earns its shelf space by doing eight jobs. Shelf life: 1-2 yrs.SuppliesBeef TallowBeef Tallow: real shelf life 2-3 years frozen when stored well (Airtight; freeze to extend).GuidesBeef tallow and cayenne pepper: uses and storageCovers the food, skin and pain-relief uses of beef tallow and cayenne pepper, alone and combined, with storage methods and shelf life for each.SuppliesBeef tallow: uses, energy density and storageUses for beef tallow in cooking, pemmican, soap, skincare, candles and leather care, plus its calorie density and freezer and shelf storage.CompoundsBeeswaxA natural wax for candles, salves, wood finish, and waterproofing. It burns clean and keeps for years.RecipesMemberBeeswax Emergency CandlesBeeswax candles burn cleaner, with far less soot than paraffin, and the dense, high-melting wax makes them last two to three times longer, a real...RecipesMemberBeeswax Lip Balm and Skin SalveCracked lips and dry skin may seem minor, but in cold or windy conditions they become painful entry points for infection.RecipesMemberBeeswax Wood Finish and Furniture PolishThe oil soaks into the grain while the beeswax leaves a soft, water-repellent sheen on the surface, reviving tired wood and guarding it against...CompoundsBentonite ClayAn absorbent clay that binds some irritants in poultices and, with a coagulant, helps cloudy water settle. Internal use is limited, so read the...ScenariosBlackoutThe power is out and nobody knows for how long.GuidesBlackout guide: first 45 minutes, first 3 days, and beyondA step-by-step sequence for a long grid-down event at home: water and scope checks first, then food order, heat, power, comms and medical.GuidesBob's Red Mill vs Arm & Hammer baking sodaA factual comparison of the two baking soda brands covering the aluminum myth, natural vs synthetic sourcing, organic claims, purity and which to...GuidesBooks for self-reliance (print reference library)A list of print books to own for when the internet is down, grouped by navigation, tactical survival, homesteading, DIY, wilderness, medical and...CompoundsBoraxA naturally occurring mineral salt used for cleaning, laundry, ant and roach baits, mold control, and metal-working flux.RecipesMemberBorax Flux for Soldering and Metal JoiningMetal surfaces form invisible oxide layers that prevent solder from bonding, which is why joints fail without proper flux.CompoundsBoric AcidA mild antiseptic and a potent insecticide. Used in eye and foot washes and in roach and ant powders.RecipesMemberBoric Acid Eye Wash for Mild IrritationA 2 percent boric acid solution sits close to the salt balance of your own tears, which is what let it serve as a gentle eye rinse for over a century.RecipesMemberBoron Micronutrient Feed for Deficient CropsA pinch of borax corrects the specific starvation that shows up as hollow broccoli stems or brown-hearted beets, but boron is the one nutrient...GuidesBoroux Legacy gravity water filter: why I switchedMy review of the Boroux Legacy, the stainless gravity-fed water filter I now use every day and keep for emergencies, with a point by point...SuppliesBottled WaterBottled Water: real shelf life Indefinite if sealed when stored well (Cool, dark).GuidesBrands I use and discount codesThe brands I use and recommend, with my links and the discount codes that go with them: vacuum sealers, water filters and storage, fuel transfer,...SuppliesBread & Baked GoodsHow to check bread & baked goods for spoilage.SkillsBreak in a new wool blanketHow to soften a scratchy new wool blanket with a gentle cold wash, low-heat drying in short cycles, and an optional vinegar rinse.GuidesBug-out bag gear list (packs, medical, water, tools)Rob's bug-out bag gear picks built around three pack types, with trauma and first aid kits, water purifier, stove, knife, light, GMRS radio and...SuppliesButter & MargarineHow to check butter & margarine for spoilage.
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CompoundsCalcium HydroxideA strong alkaline base, also called slaked lime. It preserves eggs, raises low soil pH, sanitizes with whitewash, and binds simple mortar and plaster.CompoundsCalcium HypochloriteCalcium hypochlorite, sold cheaply as pool shock, is the most powerful water treatment in this book. As a dry granule it carries 65 to 70 percent...CompoundsCamphorAn aromatic, volatile compound used in muscle and chest rubs, moth and pest blocks, and gear waterproofing.RecipesMemberCamphor blocks for tool and storage protectionCamphor slowly transitions from solid directly to vapor without melting, releasing fumes that repel insects and inhibit rust formation on metal...RecipesMemberCamphor muscle balm for sorenessRubbed on, camphor fires the skin warm and cool nerves at once, a mild tingling that masks the deeper ache and pulls fresh blood to the sore spot.GuidesCamping gear listA top 10 camping essentials list plus product picks for camp setup, kitchen, sleep, clothing, tools, hygiene and backpacking.SuppliesCanned BeansCanned Beans: real shelf life 5-10 years when stored well.SuppliesCanned BeefCanned Beef: real shelf life 5-10 years when stored well.SuppliesCanned FruitCanned Fruit: real shelf life 2-5 years when stored well (Cool, dry).SuppliesCanned GoodsHow to check canned goods for spoilage.SuppliesCanned Meat & FishCanned Meat & Fish: real shelf life 5-10 yr when stored well (Cool, dry).SuppliesCanned PumpkinCanned Pumpkin: real shelf life 2-5 years when stored well.SuppliesCanned SoupsCanned Soups: real shelf life 5-10 years when stored well.SuppliesCanned Tomato SauceCanned Tomato Sauce: real shelf life 2-5 years when stored well.SuppliesCanned TunaCanned Tuna: real shelf life 5-10 years when stored well.SuppliesCanned VegetablesCanned Vegetables: real shelf life 3-5 years when stored well (Cool, off floor).SuppliesCanned Veg & FruitHow to check canned veg & fruit for spoilage.SuppliesCARDNL Essential ElectrolytesCARDNL Essential Electrolytes: real shelf life 7-10 years sealed when stored well (Airtight, cool, dry).GuidesCar survival kit (two-bag setup)Packing lists for a large and a small canvas bag kept in the vehicle, with gear picks and uses for jump starters, tow straps and ratchet straps.CompoundsCastile SoapA gentle, concentrated plant-oil soap for body, hair, laundry, and gentle first aid. A little goes a very long way.RecipesMemberCastile Soap Wound WashCleaning a wound well is the single best way to prevent infection, and it takes little more than clean water and mild soap. The trick is knowing...RecipesMemberCastor oil and cayenne pepper salve for joint and muscle painA two-ingredient infused castor oil and cayenne salve for sore joints, muscles and cold hands or feet, with use and storage answers.SuppliesCayenne PepperCayenne Pepper earns its shelf space by doing eight jobs. Shelf life: 5+ yrs.SuppliesCereal & GranolaHow to check cereal & granola for spoilage.SuppliesCheeseHow to check cheese for spoilage.Field guidesChemical Compounds Field Guide33 homesteading and prepper compounds for water, health, cleaning, food & emergenciesGuidesChemical weapon types and their effectsOverview of the main chemical weapon categories, with example agents for each and how they affect the body.RecipesMemberChicken coop freshener powder (baking soda and DE)Ammonia from poultry waste causes respiratory problems in birds and reduces egg production.SuppliesChocolateHow to check chocolate for spoilage.CompoundsCitric AcidA mild food-grade acid. Despite its name, most is brewed by fermentation, not squeezed from citrus. It preserves food, strips rust and scale,...RecipesMemberCitric acid for canning and food preservationFresh lemon juice varies in acidity from batch to batch, but citric acid powder delivers precise, repeatable pH reduction every time you measure it.RecipesMemberCitric acid for mineral absorptionWhen your diet depends heavily on grains, beans, and preserved foods, you may be eating enough minerals but absorbing far less than you think.RecipesMemberClay Binder for Digestive UpsetBentonite clay swells in water and carries a negative surface charge, so in the gut it can bind some positively charged substances and irritants...RecipesMemberClay Mask for Oily Skin and Minor IrritationAs a bentonite clay mask dries, it absorbs surface oil, sweat, and grime, and its negatively charged particles bind impurities on the skin, leaving...RecipesMemberCleaning Around a WoundHydrogen peroxide is a useful disinfectant, but it does not belong in an open wound. It is an oxidant, and it kills the new cells that rebuild skin...RecipesMemberClearing and Clarifying Cloudy WaterCloudy water clears in stages: let the heavy grit settle, help the fine particles clump and drop, then filter and disinfect what is left. Bentonite...SuppliesCoconut OilCoconut Oil: real shelf life 5 years when stored well (Cool).RecipesMemberCognitive Support During Sleep Deprivation and High StressAfter 24 hours without sleep, your reaction time, memory, and decision-making deteriorate to levels comparable to being legally drunk.RecipesMemberCold Process Bar SoapSoap is the product of a simple chemical reaction between fat and lye that humans have used for thousands of years.GuidesColorado high-elevation vegetable gardeningHow to plan a vegetable garden for Colorado's short, high-altitude season: zones, weather, crop choices, site and soil prep, beds and frost dates.GuidesCommunicate without cell service or internet (GMRS radios)A plain guide to GMRS two-way radios for families: licensing, radio-to-radio range, repeaters, finding a repeater, and Rob's handheld pick.CategoriesCommunicationsRadios, satellite, and staying in contactCategoriesCompounds and CleaningClean, disinfect, and treat with a few stable compoundsTools and hubsCompounds: A to ZThe 33 long-term compounds: shelf life, storage, hazards, and every job each one does.SuppliesCondimentsHow to check condiments for spoilage.About and accountContactOne form for questions, orders, corrections, and working together.Reference chartsConversions and dosing: measure anything, even without toolsVolume, weight, and temperature conversions, dose-by-eye tricks for when there is no scale, solution strengths, the water treatment quick...CategoriesCooking, Fuel and FireCook a meal, make heat, and start a fireGuidesCooking, Fuel and Fire When the Power or Gas Is OffWhat to eat first, how to cook with no power or gas, where each stove is safe, how long fuels keep, how to make fire, and the safety gear and spare...SuppliesCooking OilCooking Oil: real shelf life 1-2 yr when stored well (Cool, dark).CompoundsCornstarchA fine, versatile starch: it thickens cooking, keeps skin dry to prevent chafing, works as a no-water dry shampoo, and cleans and deodorizes around...RecipesMemberCornstarch Thickener for Emergency CookingCornstarch turns thin, watery broth into a hearty, spoon-coating meal. Stirred into a hot liquid it swells and sets into a smooth gel, so a...SuppliesCorn SyrupCorn Syrup: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well.SkillsCrayon candle for emergency lightHow to stand a crayon upright and light its paper wrapper as a wick for a short-lived emergency candle.SuppliesCream of TartarCream of Tartar: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well.CompoundsCreatineA well-studied supplement that supports strength, recovery, and mental sharpness under stress and sleep loss.SuppliesCreatine for strength, endurance and mental clarityWhy to stock creatine: muscle preservation, energy and cognitive support when food is scarce, natural food sources, and pairing with electrolytes.SuppliesCreatine MonohydrateCreatine Monohydrate: real shelf life 10+ years sealed when stored well (Airtight + desiccant).SuppliesCured MeatsHow to check cured meats for spoilage.RecipesMemberCuring a Raw Hide with SaltSalt does not tan a hide. It cures one, which is a different and more urgent job: it stops the rot so the hide keeps until you can tan it properly....
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RecipesDaily Strength and Recovery SupplementWhen you are hauling water, splitting wood, or digging for hours, your muscles burn through their burst energy in seconds, and creatine helps...SuppliesDark ChocolateDark Chocolate: real shelf life 4-5 years when stored well (Cool, dark).Reference chartsDegrease, descale, disinfect: match the cleaner to the jobCleaning comes down to three jobs: cut grease, dissolve mineral scale, or kill germs. The compounds for each are not interchangeable.RecipesMemberDeodorize and sanitize shoes without washingA two-step method using a vinegar mist, sun drying, and baking soda to cut odor and bacteria in shoes or boots when washing is not possible.RecipesDescale and disinfect kettles and coffee makers (vinegar)Vinegar dissolves the mineral buildup that insulates heating elements and slowly kills appliances.CompoundsDiatomaceous EarthFossilized silica powder that kills insects by drying them out and protects stored grain. Use food-grade only, and keep the fine dust out of your...GuidesDifference between straw and hayExplains what hay and straw are made of, what each is used for, and a list of uses for straw around the homestead and garden.RecipesDisinfect water barrels and cisterns with calcium hypochloriteBacteria, algae, biofilm, and mold spores colonize water storage containers faster than most people expect, even in sealed systems.GuidesDIY garden fence gate (wood and welded wire)Photos and build notes for a wooden garden gate with welded wire, plus a treated 2x4 chicken run door and what Rob would do differently.GuidesDIY garden fence to keep deer and rabbits outA photo walk-through of a 2015 garden fence build with 4x4 posts set in concrete, welded wire, and raised beds, plus lessons learned.RecipesMemberDIY Hand SanitizerThe best version leans on two of this book's own compounds: isopropyl alcohol to kill the germs, and a little glycerin to keep the alcohol from...RecipesMemberDIY Lye from Washing Soda & Pickling LimeWhen commercial lye runs out, two dry powders and water still make a real caustic soda solution, the strong alkali behind soap and heavy cleaning.RecipesMemberDIY Soda Bottle Water FilterA layered bottle filter clears cloudy water and cuts odor and taste, but it does not make water safe to drink. Always disinfect what comes out.RecipesMemberDrain and Pipe Clearing SolutionSodium hydroxide is one of the most effective degreasing agents available, dissolving organic blockages that baking soda and vinegar can't reach.RecipesMemberDrain Maintenance and Grease Clog TreatmentMost household drain clogs are organic: grease, soap scum, hair, and food residue layered over time.RecipesMemberDrawing poultice for bites, stings, and boils (charcoal and clay)A charcoal and clay poultice can soothe minor bites, stings, and small surface irritations by absorbing fluid and debris from the surface.SuppliesDried BeansDried Beans: real shelf life Up to 10 years when stored well (Airtight, cool).SuppliesDried Beans & LegumesHow to check dried beans & legumes for spoilage.SuppliesDried Herbs & SpicesDried Herbs & Spices: real shelf life Longer, but lose potency when stored well (Airtight, dark).RecipesMemberDry Shampoo for Extended Field UseWhen water is scarce, cornstarch buys a few more days between hair washes. Dusted onto the roots, it soaks up the oil and sweat that make hair look...
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SuppliesEggsHow to check eggs for spoilage.RecipesElectrolyte Rehydration and Physical Labor RecoveryPlain water hydrates poorly because your cells need electrolytes to absorb and retain it.CompoundsElectrolytesElectrolytes are the charged minerals that pull water into your cells, carry nerve signals, and keep muscles from cramping.RecipesMemberElectronics and Equipment CleaningFor electronics you want the strongest alcohol you can get, not 70 percent. The higher the grade the less water it carries, so it flashes off fast...GuidesEmergency backup laptop in a Faraday case (files to keep)Lists the threats a backup laptop or iPad needs protection from and the documents, maps, guides and media to load on it, with a Faraday bag pick.RecipesMemberEmergency Laxative for Constipation ReliefTaken by mouth, Epsom salt pulls water into the bowel and empties it, usually within half an hour to six hours. It is a real medicine with a real...Reference chartsEmergency scenarios: find your situation, fast37 situations across water, first aid, food, pests, garden, home, sanitation, and nuclear. Each names the compound and links straight to the recipe...RecipesMemberEmergency Smoke Signal or Ignition AidPotassium nitrate and sugar, mixed about three parts to two, burn together and throw off a thick white smoke, the makings of a homemade emergency...ScenariosEMPElectronics and the grid go down together.GuidesEMP (electromagnetic pulse) sources and effectsAn explainer on nuclear, non-nuclear and solar EMPs, what they do to grids, communications and the economy, and how the U.S. government has prepared.CompoundsEpsom SaltMagnesium sulfate. It is the traditional addition to a warm muscle soak, feeds magnesium to plants where a soil test shows a shortfall, and works...CompoundsEthanolHigh-proof grain alcohol. A disinfectant, solvent, and tincture base, and a clean-burning emergency fuel.GuidesEveryday carry tactical sling: my setup and what is insideThe everyday carry sling I use, an Eberlestock Fade Flex, and the five things inside it: a Hellcat 9mm, two spare magazines, a fixed blade, a...
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GuidesFaraday-protected emergency electronics: the sling bag and the grab-and-go kitWhat to pack in an EMP-protected electronics kit, small or full: Faraday bags and jackets, a sling bag or hard case, power bank, solar panel,...GuidesFEMA 2024 National Household Survey findingsSummary of FEMA's 2024 National Household Survey: how many Americans prepare, what they worry about, who they expect to help, and top barriers.RecipesMemberField Body Wash and ShampooCastile soap bars work in cold water, need no preparation, and last a couple of weeks of daily washing. One bar covers body, hands, and hair.Reference chartsFind a recipe by what you need to do (cross-reference index)All 206 jobs the 33 compounds can do, grouped by need: body and health, home and shelter, water and food, land, tools, and storage. Each links to...GuidesFire-starting methods without matches or a lighterOverview of hand drill, bow drill, flint and steel, magnifying lens, battery and steel wool, and potassium permanganate with glycerin.SuppliesFish & SeafoodHow to check fish & seafood for spoilage.GuidesFix-all repair kit: tapes, fasteners, plumbing and electrical bitsA checklist of tapes, fasteners and small plumbing and electrical items for a fix-all kit, with typical and improvised uses for each item.ScenariosFloodWater is rising, or the cleanup has begun.CategoriesFoodEat-now, cook-from, and long-term bulkRecipesFood storage chili (canned beef and beans)One-pot chili recipe made from canned ground beef, canned beans and tomatoes, and dried spices, with fresh substitutions.RecipesMemberFoot powder for moisture and friction (baking soda, cornstarch)Used to reduce foot moisture, friction, and odor in situations where hygiene is limited and foot care is essential, such as during long hikes,...Tools and hubsFormulas: A to ZOne compound doing one job: what you need, the steps, the warnings, and how long it keeps.SuppliesFreeze-Dried FoodsFreeze-Dried Foods: real shelf life 25-30 years when stored well (Sealed #10 can).RecipesMemberFreshen bedding and sleeping pads without washing (vinegar, sun)Foam pads, sleeping bags, and boots harbor bacteria in places you cannot easily wash with soap and water.SuppliesFresh Fruit & VegHow to check fresh fruit & veg for spoilage.SuppliesFresh MeatsHow to check fresh meats for spoilage.SuppliesFrozen FoodsHow to check frozen foods for spoilage.RecipesMemberFruit leather with ascorbic acid to prevent browningFruit leather turns a short-lived harvest into lightweight, shelf-stable food you can store for months without refrigeration or canning equipment.
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RecipesMemberGarden and Crop Fungicide DustSulfur has guarded crops from disease for more than 2,000 years: it coats the leaf, interferes with the fungus's respiration, and keeps new spores...CategoriesGarden and LivestockGrow and protect your own foodRecipesMemberGarden Fertilizer for Magnesium-Deficient PlantsWhen OLDER leaves yellow between the veins while the veins stay green, and a soil test confirms low magnesium, Epsom salt fixes what nitrogen and...RecipesMemberGarden Pest Control Using Diatomaceous EarthDiatomaceous earth kills insects mechanically rather than chemically, so pests do not build resistance to it the way they do to chemical sprays.RecipesMemberGarden Sanitizing, Fungus Gnats, and What Not to Do for Root RotRoot rot is a disease, not just drowning, and there is nothing you can pour on top that reaches it. Peroxide earns its place in the garden on pots,...Reference chartsMemberGarden uses: the right recipe for soil, plants, pests, and harvestA symptom-to-recipe chart, every garden task with its recipe, the key rates pulled from each one, the mistakes that ruin a crop, and what to do in...Tools and hubsGlossary233 terms in plain language, from the book and the field guides.CompoundsGlycerinA thick, sweet, non-toxic liquid that draws and holds moisture. Used for skin care, alcohol-free tinctures, and even as a matchless way to start a...RecipesMemberGlycerin tincture (glycerite) from fresh or dried herbsGlycerin pulls active compounds out of herbs and preserves them in liquid form for 1 to 2 years, giving you shelf-stable plant medicine without...GuidesGMRS vs FRS radios (power, range, license)Compares GMRS and FRS two-way radios on power, range, licensing, features and best uses, with a Rocky Talkies pick and an FAQ.GuidesGrab-and-go camp kitchen checklistA full item list for a camp kitchen packed in a hard case, covering stove, cookware, utensils, food storage and cleaning supplies.GuidesGrab-and-go preparedness kit (non-tool gear list)Rob's grab-and-go kit for vehicle or camp: product picks for water, fire and cooking, navigation, safety, communication and repairs, tools excluded.RecipesMemberGrain and Dry Food Storage ProtectantA single grain moth or weevil infestation can destroy months of stored food in weeks.SuppliesGrains & FloursHow to check grains & flours for spoilage.Tools and hubsGuides: A to ZLonger reads that tie the entries together.
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Reference chartsHandling and safety: gear up before you open a containerThe protective gear for caustic, oxidizing, and dusty compounds, the neutralizers to keep within reach, and what to do the moment an exposure happens.SuppliesHard CheeseHard Cheese: real shelf life 6-12 months when stored well (Refrigerated).GuidesHarvest Right freeze dryer: sizes, prices, and my experienceWhat I have learned from running a Harvest Right home freeze dryer since 2016, with the three sizes, prices, batch capacities, what comes in the...GuidesHatchet vs. axeCompares hatchets and axes by size, head shape, and use, with a short history and a part-by-part anatomy of an axe.RecipesMemberHerbal Liniment for Muscle and Joint PainHigh-proof alcohol pulls the pain-easing compounds out of herbs like arnica, cayenne, comfrey, and ginger, and the quick-drying liquid rubs them...GuidesHighland cow horns (purpose, growth and differences by sex)What Highland cattle horns are for, how they differ between cows, bulls and steers, how fast and large they grow, and why the author does not dehorn.Tools and hubsHomeThe field manual: search, browse by need, and the newest pages.GuidesHome backup power system (ETHOS battery and LUXPower inverter)Why Rob chose a BigBattery ETHOS 15.3kWh battery stack with a LUXPower 12kW hybrid inverter, what it powers, the equipment list and a cost...GuidesHome emergency readiness (power, water, comms, security)Walks through home readiness by area: backup energy, water and food, communication, home security, self-defense, community, drills and documents.RecipesMemberHomemade squeezable toothpaste (bentonite clay and baking soda)A squeezable toothpaste recipe using bentonite clay, calcium carbonate, baking soda, arrowroot and glycerin, with essential oil options.GuidesHome Security and Defense: Deter, Detect, Delay, DenyLayered home security from the property edge to the people inside: what to do when something feels wrong, what to build first, and how to store and...CompoundsHoneyA naturally antimicrobial sweetener that preserves dry foods, soothes coughs, and dresses minor wounds and burns. It keeps almost indefinitely.RecipesMemberHoney Cough and Throat SyrupA spoonful of honey coats and soothes a raw throat, and it quiets a cough about as well as the common over-the-counter syrups do. The good evidence...RecipesMemberHoney for Minor BurnsFor a small, shallow burn, cooling it well matters far more than whatever you put on afterward. Once it is cooled, a thin layer of honey keeps the...RecipesMemberHoney Wound DressingHoney fights microbes several ways at once: the sugar is concentrated enough to pull water out of bacteria, it is naturally acidic, and an enzyme...RecipesMemberHot degrease soak with washing sodaWashing soda is far more alkaline than baking soda, around pH 11 versus 8.3, which gives it the strength to dissolve baked-on grease, carbonized...Tools and hubsHow do IEvery question the site answers, sorted by need, straight to the answer.SkillsHow to get a GMRS licenseStep-by-step FCC process for getting a GMRS license, with cost, duration, family coverage, channels and power limits.SkillsHow to source, carry, and filter local fresh waterA system for hauling water from a local source with a frame pack and rigid containers, filtering and disinfecting it at home, and sanitizing the...SkillsHow to treat a deep cutSix-step wound care sequence for a deep cut: clean, disinfect with iodine, dry, apply antibiotic ointment, close the edges and cover, with a supply...GuidesHow water becomes unsafe (contamination risks)Explains seven ways water gets contaminated, how to spot problems in stored water, and good practices for storing water at home.CompoundsHydrogen PeroxideAn oxidizing disinfectant for skin, surfaces, and gear that breaks down to water and oxygen. Use it around wounds, not in them. The household...CategoriesHygiene and SanitationStay clean and contain wasteGuidesHygiene and Sanitation When the Water Is OffWhat to do when the water goes off: bucket toilet, hand washing, waste, body, teeth, laundry, dishes, disinfecting, and pests, with the shelf item...
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RecipesImprove the taste of treated or stored water (baking soda)Chemically treated water is safe but often tastes so unpleasant that people avoid drinking enough of it, and dehydration becomes a real risk when...RecipesMemberInsect deterrent spray (vinegar)Ants find food by following invisible scent trails, and wiping those trails away, with soapy water or vinegar, is what actually sets them back, at...RecipesMemberInsect Killing Powder for Indoor Pest ControlA roach picks up boric acid's fine dust as it crosses a treated crack, then swallows the powder while grooming itself, and the boron goes to work...SuppliesInstant CoffeeInstant Coffee: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well (Airtight).SuppliesIodineIodine earns its shelf space by doing eight jobs. Shelf life: 5-10 yrs.RecipesMemberIron, Manganese, and Odor Removal from WaterThe rust stains, black grit, and rotten-egg smell in well or stored water come from dissolved iron, manganese, and sulfur, and potassium...CompoundsIsopropyl AlcoholA fast-drying disinfectant and solvent for skin, surfaces, and equipment. It is flammable and weakens over time.
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RecipesMemberLaundry Booster and Fabric Stripping SolutionOver time, detergent residue, hard water minerals, body oils, and fabric softener build up invisibly in cloth fibers, trapping odors and reducing...SuppliesLentilsLentils: real shelf life Up to 5 years when stored well (Airtight, cool).RecipesMemberLime mortar and plaster (hydrated lime)Lime-based mortars and plasters predate modern cement by thousands of years and remain in use because they flex without cracking, breathe moisture,...RecipesMemberLime Treatment for an Emergency Toilet or LatrineWhen the plumbing stops, human waste becomes the fastest route to cholera and dysentery in a home or camp. A layer of hydrated lime over a bucket...RecipesMemberLimewash for coops, barns and latrines (hydrated lime)Limewash has been used for centuries to whitewash barns, outhouses, and food storage areas because it simultaneously kills microbes, reduces odors,...SuppliesLong-lasting sweeteners for food storageShelf life, storage and uses for long-keeping sweeteners: honey, white, brown and powdered sugar, maple syrup, molasses, corn syrup and a sugar and...CompoundsLugol's IodineAn iodine and potassium-iodide solution that disinfects wounds and water and, in the correct dose, blocks the thyroid from taking up radioactive...RecipesMemberLugol's iodine antiseptic for cuts and skin infectionsLugol's iodine is a broad-spectrum antiseptic that inactivates bacteria, viruses, and fungi with brief contact, useful when commercial wound-care...CompoundsLyeSodium hydroxide, a powerful caustic base for cold-process soap and clearing stubborn drains. It demands full protective gear every time.
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RecipesMemberMake an herbal tincture with alcoholAlcohol dissolves plant compounds that water alone can't extract, then preserves them indefinitely as the same alcohol prevents microbial growth.RecipesMemberMake Washing Soda from Baking SodaA plain box of baking soda becomes a stronger cleaner with heat alone. Baking breaks each bicarbonate molecule apart into sodium carbonate, the...SuppliesMaple SyrupMaple Syrup: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well (Cool, dark).RecipesMemberMattress, fabric and upholstery freshener (baking soda)How to use baking soda to pull odors and moisture out of mattresses, cushions, sleeping pads and upholstery when washing is not possible.RecipesMemberMeat Color and Freshness PreservationFreshly cut meat gradually turns brown as oxygen converts the red pigment oxymyoglobin into brown metmyoglobin, a process that becomes noticeable...RecipesMemberMeat Curing with Pink Curing SaltSaltpeter cures meat only after bacteria turn it into nitrite, and it is the nitrite that does the work: it blocks the deadly botulism bacteria,...RecipesMemberMeat Preservation by Salt Curing (Dry Method)Salt preserves meat by pulling water out until there is too little left for bacteria to live on. It is the oldest method there is and it still...CategoriesMedicalStop bleeding, treat wounds, and buy timeGuidesMedical Preparedness: First Aid Kits, Supplies, and 15 EmergenciesWhat to stock in a house, mobile, and vehicle medical kit, what to do first in 15 common emergencies, and how to store medicines and records so...GuidesMedications to stock for survival situations (top 10)Ten medications to stock, five antibiotics plus OTC and add-on drugs, with the conditions each one is used for.About and accountMembershipWhat membership opens, what it costs, and how to join.Tools and hubsMissing child information checklistA master list of information to compile ahead of time about a child or loved one, from identifiers and contacts to routines, devices, vehicles and...RecipesMemberMold and mildew cleaner (vinegar)Undiluted white vinegar kills many common molds on hard surfaces without the toxic fumes of bleach, though its effectiveness varies by species.RecipesMemberMold Control for Sprouted Grain FodderA peroxide soak gives sprouting fodder grain a cleaner start by knocking back the mold spores it arrives carrying. It reduces the surface load; it...RecipesMemberMold Prevention Spray Using BoraxBorax is a boron compound, and boron disrupts the enzymes that mold and decay fungi use to feed, so a dried borax residue on a surface keeps mold...SuppliesMREs (meals, ready-to-eat): contents, heating, shelf lifeWhat comes in an MRE, how the flameless ration heater works, calories per meal, and shelf life by storage temperature.GuidesMullein for lung support: harvest, dry and storeWhat mullein does for coughs and congestion, how to use it as tea, tincture, oil or steam, and how to harvest, air dry and store it.Tools and hubsMulti-use matrixTwenty items against eight jobs, to see your coverage and your gaps.RecipesMemberMuscle Soak for Soreness and RecoveryA warm soak eases sore, tense muscles after hard work. The warmth is doing the work: there is no good evidence the Epsom salt adds anything beyond...About and accountMy Account and My ManualYour field guide downloads and the manual you build from saved pages.GuidesMylar bags: which foods gain the most shelf life (ranked)Ranks foods in five tiers by how much Mylar and oxygen absorbers help, with moisture limits, bag thickness, absorber sizing and sealing.
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GuidesNatural remedies vs antibiotics for skin infectionsWhich natural remedies still help minor skin infections, the signs of MRSA, and why to stock antibiotics like doxycycline for serious infections.RecipesNeutralize small acid spills with baking sodaBattery acid and household chemical spills create dangerous surfaces that can burn skin and corrode materials on contact.Tools and hubsNever-mix checkerPick any two compounds or household chemicals and see if they are safe together.ScenariosNo doctor availableHelp is hours away or not coming.ScenariosNuclear and radiationFallout, a plant accident, or a radiological event.SuppliesNuts & SeedsNuts & Seeds: real shelf life 6-12 mo when stored well (Fridge or freezer).
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RecipesOatmeal packets for long-term food storage (3 recipes)Three dry oatmeal packet recipes to vacuum seal in pouches or Mylar, with cooking steps and shelf life for each ingredient.SuppliesOatsOats: real shelf life 2-3 years when stored well (Airtight).RecipesMemberOdor-Stripping Soak for Stinky ClothesClothes stink because bacteria feed on body oils trapped deep in the fibers, so the fix is a long soak that lifts those oils out and shifts the pH...GuidesOff-grid communication options (no cell service required)Rob's ranked rundown of ways to communicate when cell towers go dark, from satellite texting and Starlink Mini standby to Meshtastic, GMRS, ham,...GuidesOff-grid solar power setup under $850Recommends the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Classic power station with a Zoupw 400W solar panel, with specs, runtimes, and how to use them for backup.RecipesMemberOral Debriding Rinse for Sore Gums and Mouth UlcersDiluted peroxide is what the FDA calls an oral debriding agent: it cleans. The foam lifts debris and dead tissue off a sore or an inflamed gum...GuidesOvernight readiness pack loadout (Breakwater Fogland 25L)An item-by-item overnight pack loadout built around the Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L waterproof backpack, with the reason each item is carried.
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SkillsPack a backpack for weight distributionWhere to place heavy, mid-weight, light and quick-access gear in a backpack so the load stays balanced and comfortable.SuppliesPackaged SnacksHow to check packaged snacks for spoilage.CompoundsParaffin WaxAn inexpensive wax for candles, airtight jar seals, fire starters, and waterproofing cloth and gear.RecipesMemberParaffin Wax Fire Starters (Egg Carton Method)A wax fire starter is the difference between one match and a lit fire when your kindling is damp, cold, or marginal: it holds a slow, steady flame...RecipesMemberParaffin Wax Seal for Jars and BottlesA wax cap over a corked or capped bottle is a backup barrier and a tamper-evident finish: it slows air and moisture from creeping past the closure...GuidesParasite kit (ivermectin and mebendazole) for home medical suppliesWhy Rob keeps the Jase Medical Parasite Kit on hand, what is in it, how it is prescribed, and how long it may last in storage.GuidesParasite treatment options (Rx kit, herbal cleanse, bentonite clay)Outlines three layers for parasite readiness: the Jase Medical prescription kit, a wormwood-based herbal cleanse, and bentonite clay as support.SuppliesPastaPasta: real shelf life 2-3 years when stored well (Airtight).SuppliesPeanut ButterPeanut Butter: real shelf life 2-3 years when stored well (Cool, sealed).GuidesPersonal resilience checklist: privacy, money, records and securityA checklist of practical steps across money, digital privacy, records, legal awareness, medical, communication, home control and training to build...CompoundsPetroleum JellyAn inert, waterproof barrier. It protects and seals skin, keeps air and water off metal to stop rust, and makes reliable cotton-ball fire starters.RecipesPetroleum jelly fire starters (cotton balls)A single cotton ball worked full of petroleum jelly burns steadily for about 4 to 8 minutes, enough time to ignite even damp kindling.RecipesMemberPetroleum jelly for protecting metal, leather, and rubberRust needs three things at once: iron, oxygen, and a film of water. Take away any one and it stops. A wiped-on film of petroleum jelly takes away...RecipesMemberPetroleum jelly skin barrierPetroleum jelly doesn't heal wounds; it creates an occlusive barrier that locks in moisture and blocks irritants from reaching damaged skin.GuidesPickled eggs (refrigerator recipe)Recipe for up to 24 pickled eggs in a half gallon jar, with the vinegar brine, fridge storage times, how pickling works and common questions.GuidesPill bottle survival kitA contents list for a small survival kit packed in a pill or supplement bottle, with the use for each of the 16 items.RecipesMemberPine, cinnamon and citric acid vinegar cleanerRecipe for a white vinegar cleaner infused with pine needles and cinnamon sticks, finished with citric acid, with dilution, surfaces and shelf life.RecipesMemberPoison Ivy & Oak WashThe rash from poison ivy, oak, and sumac comes from an oil called urushiol, and washing it off fast with soap and water is the single most...GuidesPortable SSD backup for home inventory and documentsHow to document possessions for insurance and keep photos, records and emergency documents on a portable SSD, with Faraday protection and redundant...SuppliesPotassium iodide (KI) tablets for nuclear emergenciesWhat potassium iodide tablets do, which nuclear events call for them, when to take them, who needs them most, shelf life, and Rob's tablet pick.CompoundsPotassium NitrateSaltpeter. It cures meat, rots out tree stumps, feeds plants, and acts as a versatile oxidizer.CompoundsPotassium PermanganateA purple oxidizer that strips iron and odor from water (though it does not make it safe to drink), treats some skin conditions, and even starts a...SuppliesPowdered MilkPowdered Milk: real shelf life 2-10 years when stored well (Airtight, cool).SuppliesPowdered milk for food storageWhy powdered milk belongs in food storage: shelf life, nutrition, additives to avoid, bulk buying options, and how to mix it for drinking.RecipesMemberPowdery Mildew and Black Spot Leaf SprayA spoonful of baking soda and a little oil in a gallon of water makes a cheap protective spray that keeps powdery mildew and rose black spot from...CategoriesPower and LightKeep power and light when the grid is downGuidesPower outage gear checklistChecklist of what to have for an extended power outage, from cash and backup power to water, lighting, fuel and communication, followed by specific...GuidesPrefab metal barn kit: build experience and costsFirst-hand account of buying a 20x30 steel barn with two lean-tos from Big Buildings Direct and Eagle Carports: site prep, ordering, concrete slab...Tools and hubsThe preparedness logbookThe household record to fill in and keep on paper.Field guidesThe Preparedness LogbookYour household's vital records, plans, and supplies, written down in one place your family can reach when it matters mostRecipesMemberPreserving Dry Foods in HoneyHoney holds so little free water that microbes struggle to grow in it, so dry food tucked under the surface keeps without a fridge. Jars of honey...About and accountPrivacy, terms, and safety noticeWhat the site collects, the terms of use, and the safety notice.RecipesPurify water with calcium hypochlorite (pool shock)Makes creek, well, rain, or other untreated water potable when boiling isn't an option. It does not remove chemical pollutants, heavy turbidity, or...RecipesPurify water with Lugol's iodine (2%)When filters break and boiling isn't possible, a few drops of Lugol's solution can make questionable water safe to drink.
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RecipesMemberRaise soil pH with hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide)Most vegetables, legumes, and fruit trees struggle in acidic soil because critical nutrients become chemically locked and unavailable to roots.RecipesMemberReduce acidity in canned or preserved foods (baking soda)Years-old canned tomatoes, aging preserves, and vinegar-heavy stews can taste sharp, sour, or metallic, and a pinch of baking soda fixes that at...Tools and hubsReference charts: A to ZThe book's appendices, built for the screen: charts, conversions, lookups, and checklists.RecipesMemberReusable Beeswax Food WrapsA cotton cloth soaked in beeswax becomes a washable, moldable wrap that clings to bowls and food, replacing single-use plastic for months.RecipesMemberReusable survival torch (conduit, rope, petroleum jelly and wax)Build a reusable torch from 1/2 inch metal conduit, natural fiber rope and a melted petroleum jelly and wax fuel, with leftover fuel used for...SuppliesRice VinegarRice Vinegar: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well.ScenariosRising prices and shortagesShelves thin out and prices climb.RecipesMemberRodent bait (baking soda)Mice and rats cannot vomit or burp, and a baking soda bait turns that against them: eaten in a sweet or fatty food, the powder fizzes into gas they...RecipesMemberRust and scale removal with citric acidLimescale in kettles, rust on tools, and mineral buildup on cookware all reduce performance and shorten the life of your equipment.RecipesRust removal for tools and hardware (vinegar soak)Acetic acid converts iron oxide into soluble iron acetate, dissolving rust that would otherwise require power tools or abrasives to remove.
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RecipesMemberSaline Wound IrrigationSaline at 0.9 percent salt matches the salt concentration of body fluid, so it flushes a wound without the sting of alcohol or peroxide, which...CompoundsSaltTypes, uses, curing, brining, and long-term storage of the one mineral that does it all.SuppliesSardines (canned)Sardines (canned): real shelf life 5-10 years when stored well (Cool, dry).ScenariosScenariosWhat to do, hour by hour, when it happens.Tools and hubsSearchSearch every page, recipe, and field guide chapter.CategoriesSecurityDeter, protect, and stay awareRecipesMemberSeed Soak to Wake Old or Slow SeedA dilute peroxide soak can nudge tired, dormant, or hard-coated seed into sprouting faster and more evenly. It wakes seed that is old but still...GuidesShelf life of medications past the expiration dateSummarizes research showing most medications stay potent years past expiration, the exceptions, and why storage conditions matter.Tools and hubsShelf life tableHow long every food and supply really lasts, searchable.RecipesShelf-stable laundry powder (baking soda, borax, washing soda)The dry alkalis and soap in this formula keep for years on the shelf, giving you a laundry powder that does not lean on supply chains.About and accountSign inEnter your email and get a sign-in link. No password.Field guidesThe six field guidesPrintable PDF guides, also readable on the site for members.Tools and hubsSkills: A to ZThings you do with your hands, step by step.RecipesMemberSkin Prep and Wound Border DisinfectionAlcohol needs water to work. It kills by unravelling the proteins a microbe is built from, and that reaction needs water present, which is why 70...RecipesMemberSkin protectant and moisturizer (glycerin salve)Cracked hands, split heels, and raw knuckles slow you down and invite infection.CompoundsSodium NitrateA curing salt and fast nitrogen fertilizer that is also a strong oxidizer. It preserves meat and feeds plants.RecipesMemberSoil Acidifier for Acid-Loving PlantsWhen soil is too alkaline for acid-loving plants like blueberries, azaleas, and rhododendrons, elemental sulfur slowly lowers the pH into the range...RecipesMemberSoil Fertilizer for Nitrogen-Deficient GardensBecause sodium nitrate is already in the nitrate form that roots take up directly, it feeds plants the moment it dissolves, with no wait for soil...RecipesSoil pH quick test with baking soda and vinegarProfessional soil tests cost money and take time, but a quick two-ingredient home check can reveal whether your soil is strongly acidic, strongly...GuidesSolar power basicsA short primer on the parts of a solar power system: panels, charge controllers, battery bank, inverters and the tie-in to a home's breaker box.RecipesMemberSore Throat Gargle and Mouth RinseA salt gargle is a comfort measure, and a good one. What it will not do is kill whatever is making your throat hurt, and it does not need to: it...Reference chartsMemberSourcing checklist: match the grade, read the labelThe in-store checklist for buying compounds: match the grade to the job, look for the right markings, and steer clear of the wrong product.SuppliesSoy SauceSoy Sauce: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Adhesives, Sealants & TapeThe right glue or tape turns a broken thing back into a working one. Keep a few glues, a caulk, and a deep bench of tapes, since each tape does a...Field guidesSpare Parts and Repair Stock Field GuideWhat to keep on hand to fix your home and land when the supply chain breaksSpare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Appliance & KitchenBig appliances fail at small, cheap parts, a belt, a fuse, a gasket, a relay. Stock the common wear parts and you keep the fridge cold and the...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Doors, Windows & LocksDoors, windows, and locks have small springs and seals that wear out and leave you stuck, drafty, or unsecured. Keep the hardware and the weather...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: ElectricalA blown fuse or a dead outlet can take out a whole circuit. Keep the connectors, protection, and fixtures to make basic repairs, and the tools to...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Fasteners & HardwareAlmost every repair needs a screw, a bolt, or an anchor. A graduated assortment in common sizes covers most jobs, and the bins pay for themselves...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Fencing, Gates & LandFences and gates fail at the moving parts and the connections. Keep wire, posts, and gate hardware to repair a run or hang a gate.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Firearms & MaintenanceA firearm is only as reliable as its upkeep and its spares. Most stoppages trace to a worn magazine, a tired spring, or a dry action. Keep the...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Fire, Smoke & SafetyCandles, wood heat, and fuel all raise fire risk exactly when the fire department is far away or not coming. Keep detection and a way to put it out.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Garden, Seed & IrrigationFood you grow is the one supply line no one can cut. Keep seed you can save and the parts that keep water on the garden with little effort.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Heating, Cooling & HVACHeating and cooling almost always fail at a handful of cheap parts, not the whole unit. Stock the wear parts for how you heat and cool, for a...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Lighting & Off-Grid UtilityWhen the grid goes dark, light and fire become daily work. The parts that fail are tiny and always forgotten. Keep them deep.Tools and hubsSpare parts lists: A to ZThe small, cheap parts that keep a home, a well, and a truck running.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Lubricants & ConsumablesThese get used up, not stored until failure. Keep deep stock, because they run out fast and touch nearly every job on the property.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Medical & First-Aid ConsumablesWhen a clinic is hours away or closed, you treat cuts, burns, and illness at home. Stock the consumables that get used up, and rotate them by date.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Pest & Rodent ControlRodents ruin more stored food than spoilage does, and they chew wiring and spread disease. Protecting the stores is part of keeping them.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Plumbing & WaterWater damage is fast and expensive. Most plumbing failures are a few dollars of rubber and plastic. Keep the fixture parts and a way to isolate and...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Power & BatteriesBackup power fails at the small connections and controls. Keep the batteries, terminals, and fuses that keep a bank or a solar setup alive.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Propane & Fuel SystemsFuel systems fail at a regulator, a hose, or an O-ring. These are cheap, and a bad one can stop a heater, a grill, or a generator cold. Use...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Raw Materials & StockBeyond named parts, keep a little raw material. Short lengths and scraps become brackets, patches, and braces for the repair you did not plan for.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Roofing & ExteriorA small roof leak becomes a rotted deck and a ruined ceiling. Keep the parts to patch fast and cover in a storm.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Sanitation & WasteIf the toilet will not flush, human waste becomes the fastest health threat on the property. Keep a way to contain and treat it, even if you are on...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Small Engine & EquipmentSmall engines strand you at a filter, a plug, or stale fuel. Match the model numbers of each machine and stock its wear parts.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Textile & Gear RepairGear that tears can be sewn or patched back to useful. A small repair kit keeps clothing, tents, and packs out of the trash.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: The Core Tool KitA shelf of spare parts does nothing without the tools to install them. These are the hand tools, testers, and a few specialty pieces that turn this...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Tools & Cutting ConsumablesTools last, but the parts that touch the work do not. A dull blade or a broken handle stops the job just as surely as a missing part.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Vehicle & RoadsideA car strands you at a belt, a battery, or a flat, usually far from a parts store. Match your vehicle and keep the wear parts, fluids, and roadside...Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Water Treatment & StorageWhen the tap or well is down, clean water is the first thing you run short of. Keep a way to store it and, more importantly, a way to purify more.Spare parts listsMemberSpare parts: Well, Pressure & Sump PumpsOn a well, one small part can leave you with no water at all, and a sump keeps a basement dry. Know your pumps and stock the failure-prone parts...GuidesSpoilage Cheat SheetA one-page recap. When something looks off, run these in order and trust the result.GuidesSpotting SpoilageMost spoiled food fails one of a few sensory checks. Learn these signs once and you can judge almost any item, no expiration date required. When a...GuidesStarlink Mini and Star-Batt: off-grid internet that travelsHow I pair a Starlink Mini on the Roam plan with a Star-Batt battery to keep internet running on the road, off grid, and through a power outage.RecipesMemberStart a fire with potassium permanganate and glycerinA pinch of potassium permanganate and a few drops of glycerin can burst into flame with no spark, battery, or friction, as long as you keep them...Tools and hubsStart hereWhere to begin, the order to build in, what I recommend, and how to use the site.GuidesStaying Warm and Sheltered When the Heat Goes OutWhat to do when the furnace or the grid is down: close off one room, layer, add safe backup heat, avoid carbon monoxide, protect pipes and roof,...GuidesStaying warm with limited gear (mild or warm climates)Ways to hold body heat outdoors and at home with little gear: block wind and drafts, insulate from the ground, use foil, warm water bottles, small...Field guidesStockpile Essentials Field GuideEverything to keep on hand, category by category, plus the versatile items that earn their shelf spaceReference chartsMemberStorage, shelf life and inventory: store it right, track it, know when it's spentHow to store each of the 33 compounds against its biggest enemy, the sign each one is wearing out, the inventory sheet with a free fillable...GuidesStoring and using propane for self-sufficiencyCovers propane vs wood for heat, where and how to store tanks, leak and explosion risks, tank sizes, and how much propane to keep.Reference chartsStoring your compounds: conditions, containers, packing and labelsThe conditions and containers that keep compounds good for years: temperature, light, and humidity targets, which container for which compound, the...RecipesMemberStump Remover and Land ClearingPotassium nitrate is what commercial stump removers are: drilled into a stump and watered in, it slowly nudges the wood toward rot and, more...SuppliesSugarSugar: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well (Airtight, dry).CompoundsSulfurA yellow mineral used as a garden fungicide, a scabies and skin treatment, and a fumigant for storage areas.RecipesMemberSulfur Ointment for Skin Conditions (Scabies, Fungal Infections)Rubbed on as a 10 percent ointment, sulfur turns into mite-killing compounds on the skin and sheds the outer layer the burrowing scabies mites live...RecipesMemberSulfur Smoke Fumigation for Storage AreasBurning a little sulfur fills a sealed room with sulfur dioxide, a sharp gas that reaches into every crack and knocks back mold, mustiness, and...RecipesSunburn relief with baking soda (compress or soak)Baking soda compress and bath amounts for calming mild to moderate sunburn, with an optional aloe vera addition.Tools and hubsSupplies: A to ZWhat to keep on the shelf, how long it really lasts, and how to tell when it has turned.RecipesMemberSurface and Equipment Disinfectant SprayAt about 70 percent, ethanol kills most bacteria, viruses, and fungi within seconds by unraveling their proteins and dissolving the membranes...RecipesMemberSurface and Tool SanitizerPeroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, so it leaves no residue and no fumes. That makes it the disinfectant for enclosed spaces, sickrooms,...RecipesMemberSurface Degreaser Spray and PasteA spray bottle of washing soda solution handles the grease you cannot soak: range hood filters too large for a bucket, engine bays, workshop...RecipesSurface disinfectant from calcium hypochlorite (pool shock)Used to sanitize hard surfaces, tools, containers, and cleanup areas in off-grid or emergency situations.GuidesSurvival bucket for under $300 from WalmartA 5 gallon bucket kit bought entirely at Walmart for under $300, covering water, cooking, shelter, tools, hygiene, sanitation and first aid, with...Field guidesSurvival Foods Field GuideStoring, extending, and using your food supply when it matters mostSuppliesSurvival spices to stock (10 picks with shelf life)Lists 10 spices to stock with flavor profile and shelf life for each, plus culinary and claimed health uses.GuidesSurvival supplies for flood victimsA list of supplies to have or donate after a flood, from water purification and food to generators, GMRS radios, boots, and tarps, with reasons for...GuidesSweden's "In Case of Crisis or War" pamphlet: key lessonsRecap of the Swedish government's household preparedness pamphlet: a week of water, food, heat, cash, communication backups, evacuation and...SuppliesSynthetic rope: nylon vs polyester vs polypropyleneCompares the three synthetic ropes found at most home supply and ranch stores by strength, stretch, water behavior and best uses, plus other...
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RecipesMemberTallow and beeswax paste for gear, fire starting and skinRecipe for a beeswax and tallow paste that waterproofs cloth, leather, rope and wood, works as a fire starter and doubles as a hand or lip balm.SuppliesTea BagsTea Bags: real shelf life 2-3 years when stored well.RecipesThyroid blocking with Lugol's iodine (radiation exposure)Saturating your thyroid with stable iodine before or shortly after a nuclear release prevents your thyroid from absorbing radioactive iodine.RecipesMemberTick Removal and Bite CareAlcohol does not remove a tick. Fine tweezers do that; alcohol is for afterward, to clean the bite and to preserve the tick so a doctor can tell...Reference chartsMemberTincture herbs: a grouped quick reference for 23 useful herbs23 herbs grouped by use, each with the part to use, alcohol strength, how well it works as a glycerite, a starting dose, and the cautions.Tools and hubsToolsThe interactive tools in one place.Reference chartsMemberTools and equipment: what to gather, and what each is forA plain-language guide to the 36 everyday tools the recipes call for, with the safety gear marked.CategoriesTools and RepairCut, fasten, patch, and fixTools and hubsTools: A to ZInteractive and printable tools: the audit, the logbook, the charts.RecipesMemberTraditional Meat Curing Salt BlendSodium nitrate is the slow half of a cure: bacteria turn it into nitrite over weeks, and it is the nitrite that guards the meat, which is why...RecipesTurkey shepherd's pie with Keystone canned turkeyShepherd's pie recipe built on one 28 oz can of Keystone turkey, canned corn and green beans, beef tallow gravy and a mashed potato topping.SuppliesTurpentine vs. mineral spiritsA comparison of turpentine and mineral spirits: origin, odor, evaporation, cost, toxicity, flammability, shelf life, storage and uses.GuidesTwo-rifle starter setup (.308 Win and .22LR) with caseA beginner two-rifle setup for large and small game, with scope advice for the .308, a Pelican V800 double rifle case and how to cut its foam.
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GuidesVacuum-sealing medications for long-term storageHow to vacuum-seal medications in their original containers with a chamber sealer, control temperature, and organize a medical kit in a Packout box.SuppliesVanilla ExtractVanilla Extract: real shelf life Indefinite when stored well.CompoundsVinegarDilute acetic acid. A cleaner, descaler, deodorizer, weed killer, and food acidulant, all from one inexpensive bottle of about five percent acid.RecipesMemberVinegar deodorant and fabric freshener sprayVinegar's acetic acid kills the bacteria that produce body and fabric odor, making it a practical substitute for commercial deodorants and fabric...RecipesMemberVinegar Shrub (Drinking Vinegar)Before refrigeration, a shrub was how you caught a fruit harvest before it spoiled: steeping fruit in sugar and vinegar draws its juice out into a...
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Tools and hubsWalk-around preparedness auditScore 15 systems from 1 to 5 and get an action plan for the weak ones.Field guidesWalk-Around Preparedness AuditA hands-on walk-around of your home and land that finds the weak points in your preparedness before an emergency doesRecipesMemberWarm Soak for Splinter RemovalA warm soak softens tough skin so a shallow splinter is easier to reach. That is all it does. The soak is preparation; the tweezers do the work,...CategoriesWarmth and ShelterStay warm and dryRecipesWash and disinfect produce (baking soda or vinegar)Fresh produce carries pesticide residues, wax coatings, and surface bacteria that plain water does not fully remove.RecipesMemberWash hair without shampoo (baking soda)For days when hair smells off and a full shampoo isn't an option, or as an occasional rescue between regular washes.CompoundsWashing SodaA strong alkaline cleaner that cuts grease and softens hard water. You can make it from baking soda in the oven (Recipe 9.21).CategoriesWaterStore it, purify it, and prove it is safeRecipesWater glassing eggs with hydrated lime (long-term egg storage)Before refrigeration existed, water glassing was how families kept eggs edible for over a year.ScenariosWater outageThe tap is dry, or the water is no longer safe.GuidesWater purification methodsAn overview of making water safe: calcium hypochlorite treatment, well water risks, water testing tools, and what to do when city water is cut off.GuidesWater: Storage and PurificationStore one gallon per person per day, half for drinking and half for hygiene, and aim for at least a two-week supply at home. When stored water runs...RecipesMemberWax-Dipped Matches for WaterproofingOrdinary matches fail exactly when you need fire most, when damp air, rain, or a sweaty pocket has spoiled the heads. A thin coat of paraffin seals...RecipesMemberWax waterproofing for canvas, tarps and rope (paraffin and camphor)Wax fills the gaps between fabric fibers where water would soak through, and the camphor adds some insect and mildew resistance.SuppliesWD-40 uses, shelf life and storageLists general and emergency uses for WD-40, its hazards, shelf life and storage, and whether to stock small or large cans.GuidesweBoost Cabin signal booster: my before and after numbersMy install of the weBoost Cabin cell signal booster at home, with field test readings before and after, what comes in the kit, and how the setup went.GuidesweBoost Drive Reach Overland: the cell booster on my truckWhy the weBoost Drive Reach Overland vehicle cell booster is permanently mounted on my truck, how it tested in a weak signal area, and how I...RecipesWeed killer for paths and driveways (vinegar)Acetic acid destroys the plant cell membranes it touches, drying out and browning the foliage within about a day, though only the growth it...GuidesWhat to look for in an off-grid propertyA checklist of 15 criteria for choosing off-grid land, with detail on sunlight exposure, water access and rights, and climate.GuidesWhat to stock: the long shelf life master listEvery item from my Stockpile Essentials checklist, the 33 compounds, and the long-keeping foods, sorted by need, with the real shelf life of each,...SuppliesWheat BerriesWheat Berries: real shelf life Up to 30 years when stored well (Mylar + O2, cool).GuidesWhen the Power Goes OutCold food is safe only while it stays cold. Keep the doors shut, know your timelines, and eat down the fridge before you open the freezer.SuppliesWhite RiceWhite Rice: real shelf life 10-30 years when stored well (Mylar + O2, cool).GuidesWhy bugging out early is a mistakeWalks through seven phases of a disaster and explains why staying home is usually safer than leaving until you are forced out.GuidesWilderness survival basicsBasic wilderness survival steps: fire, shelter, the rule of threes, finding water and food, hygiene, staying calm, signaling and first aid.ScenariosWildfire and evacuationYou have minutes to leave and may not come back soon.GuidesWinter immune supplements: vitamin D3/K2, vitamin C, zinc, magnesiumExplains four winter supplements, when and how to take each for best absorption, Rob's product picks, food sources and common questions.SkillsWinterize an RV water systemA 13-step sequence for winterizing an RV water system: drain the tanks and lines, bypass the water heater, pump antifreeze through and protect the...ScenariosWinter stormCold, ice, closed roads, and often no power.GuidesWood stove installation through a ceiling and roof (DIY)A first-hand DIY wood stove install: choosing the stove, every 6 inch stove pipe and chimney part needed inside and outside, the ceiling support...SuppliesWool for survival clothing and blanketsWhy wool suits survival clothing and blankets: insulation, moisture handling, odor and fire resistance, durability, plus its drawbacks and...
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