If the power goes out, will you be prepared? Power outages can happen for a number of reasons. Blown transformers, strong winds, natural disasters, and other situations can cause widespread power outages.

The fact is that it doesn’t take much of a disruption to cause an unexpected power outage that affects thousands of people.

Most of us have been taught since we were young that it is important to have flashlights and candles available as light sources in case the lights go out. A lantern with a wide beam is good to have on hand to brighten up a room when the lights go out.

These light sources don’t work without their own fuel, so be sure you have extra batteries and matches available (or propane, if you have a propane lantern). These supplies will suit you just fine if the power goes out for just a few hours.

If you’re faced with a long-term power outage, you’ll need more than just light to make it through. You need to be able to stay warm, cook food, access fresh drinking water, and protect your family.

Make sure you have plenty of warm blankets, sleeping bags or comforters on hand. If the electricity goes out, the temperature in your home may quickly drop to an uncomfortable temperature. Long johns, winter jackets, warm hats and gloves are also good to have to keep you comfortable.

Read More: 3 Questions Every Prepper Should be able to Easily Answer

If possible, you should have a heat source in your home that does not require electricity. Wood stoves are excellent sources of heat, and most are designed with a stovetop you can use to cook food and boil water.

If you don’t have a wood stove, you should consider other options for cooking your food. Camp stoves, outdoor grills or fire pits are great options. Make sure you store extra fuel so you don’t run out just when you need it most.

Store plenty of foods that don’t need to be refrigerated. Peanut butter, crackers, canned tuna, granola bars and trail mix are excellent to have on hand because they don’t need to be cooked. Make sure you also store plenty of drinking water in case the water supply is affected.

To stay updated on the latest news, consider purchasing a battery-operated or hand crank radio. This radio may be your only source of information during a power outage.

If you’re serious about prepping for a power outage, you’ll want to invest in a quality generator. If you live in an area that experiences frequent power outages, you may want a generator that will automatically power your entire house when the power goes out. Otherwise, a portable generator is a less expensive option that will be adequate. Again, make sure you have stored plenty of fuel for your generator.

 

Don’t be a victim of a burglary or home invasion. The following tips will help you protect your house, whether you’re at home or away.

1 – Secure Your Doors

Doors are the entry point of your home, and are often the first target of a burglar. To prevent unwanted visitors, always keep your doors locked—even when you’re at home. Install peepholes, deadbolts and security chains on your doors for added protection.

Multiple locking mechanisms make it more difficult for an intruder to kick the door open. Hinge bolts also provide an extra degree of security.

An often-overlooked way of securing your doors is asking for the identity of anyone that knocks or rings the doorbell. Instead of smashing their way in, some attackers will simply be polite and wait for the door to open for them.

2 – Protect Your Windows

Windows are particularly vulnerable to burglars. In the summer months, many people like to open their windows to get some fresh air in the house. However, these open windows are an easy target for intruders. To prevent your house from unwanted attention, always keep your windows closed and latched. Keep items of value out of sight.

Install windows that are made of reinforced glass, polycarbonate or Plexiglas. These materials are much more durable and more difficult to break than traditional glass windows and provide your home with additional security. You can also install bars on your windows or use hurricane shutters to deter burglars.

3 – Install Security and Monitoring Systems

There are many excellent systems available today that can greatly add to your home’s security. Security systems can alert you if a door or window is opened. The presence of a security system is sufficient to deter most criminals. You can also install motion sensors and security cameras to monitor your property.

Investigate monitoring systems that operate wirelessly and allow you to view footage from your home security camera remotely. Some may even allow you to control the locks and various appliances from your phone or tablet.

4 – Get a Dog

Dogs are great at alerting their owners about a person’s presence on the property. A dog’s bark can also make a would-be burglar think twice about attempting to enter your home. A trained guard dog can also defend your home should an intruder make it inside.

It’s not always easy to train a dog to be comfortable with visitors, but also guard against trespassers. You may need to enlist the help of an animal behaviorist to help this aspect of training.

5 – Use Lighting to Your Advantage

Many burglars do their dirty work under the cover of night to reduce their chances of being seen. Use lighting to your advantage. Make sure you have functioning lights that illuminate your property, especially around potential points of entry. Keep lights on inside your home, even when you’re away. Consider using timing devices to give the appearance that someone is at home. A well-lit home will make a criminal think twice before attempting a burglary.

Living in a modern society, it is easy to take our easy access to clean drinking water for granted.

That means it is extremely important to be prepared if access to water is restricted. Here’s how to prepare for a water shortage.

Know Your Storage Options

If you don’t want to be stuck without water in an emergency, the best thing you can do is establish a water storage plan. You can purchase large storage barrels to store water in your garage, shed or elsewhere in your home.

If space is at a premium, you can store water throughout your home using a variety of storage containers. Get creative and fill your unused storage spaces with containers full of clean water. You can store the water under your bed, in the back of your closet, or under your stairs.

Act quickly if a disaster strikes while you still have running water. Fill up your bathtub, sinks, pots and other large storage containers with water.

Know Your Available Water Sources

There’s only so much water you can store, so in the event of a water supply disruption, you’ll need to focus your efforts on finding and acquiring water. If you have the space on your property, use rain barrels to collect rainwater.

Before an emergency strikes, you should be aware of local water sources in your area. Identify local rivers and ponds that would be good sources of water. Note that natural water sources are not safe to drink, so you will need to be able to purify it before you drink it.

Know How to Purify Water Once You Get It

Although we can only survive up to a few days without water, we might not even make it that long if we drink water that is contaminated. Natural water sources tend to have bacteria, viruses and other potential toxins that can make us sick.

There are many options available for purifying water. If you have access to a heat source, you can boil the water to kill the harmful bacteria. Water filters, steri-pens, and chemical treatments such as iodine and hydrogen peroxide can also be used to purify water. If you don’t have any of these purification tools available, you can create a solar still to collect safe drinking water.

 

If you want to survive long-term, you better know what it takes to store food.

If you have been stockpiling food as part of your emergency preparedness plan, you need to make sure you’re using techniques. If not, you could be in for a nasty surprise just when you need food the most.

The shelf life of food products is affected by the following six factors, often referred to as the enemies of food storage.

Temperature
Ideally, food should be stored in a location with cool and consistent temperatures. Temperatures ranging between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit are typically best for long-term storage. The quality of food suffers at temperatures that are outside of this range.

Oxygen
The presence of oxygen can be harmful for food storage. Oxygen can alter the flavor and consistency of your food. It can also cause food to become rancid. Oxygen-rich environments are conducive to the growth of bacteria and microorganisms that can be harmful to your health.

Moisture
Humidity and condensation can wreak havoc on your food supply. When stored food becomes damp, bacteria and mold can begin to grow, causing the food to spoil. Moisture can also cause some types of packaging to deteriorate. Proper packaging is essential to keep your food safe over a long period of time.

Light
Exposure to light can cause degradation of taste, appearance and nutritional quality of food. Fat soluble vitamins and proteins are most likely to be affected by light. Store your food in opaque containers.

Pests
Pests can be extremely destructive and wipe out vast quantities of your food supply. The types of pests you’re likely to encounter vary depending on your location.

Rodents are expert chewers and can make fast work of bags and other soft storage materials. When possible, use hard-sided containers such as aluminum, glass or other sturdy materials to keep the rodents from getting in. You can also put oxygen absorbers in your food to make it impossible for bugs and larvae to survive.

Time
The final enemy of food is time. Even foods that are packaged and stored under the ideal circumstances will be susceptible to degradation over time. There are some products that offer an extended shelf life and will stay edible for up to a few decades.

Food storage is sort of like an insurance plan to protect you in case the unthinkable happens. If you take the extra steps to ensure you’re protecting your food against these enemies of food storage, you will be well-prepared to survive in dire circumstances.

A personal locator beacon (PLB) is a portable device that will transmit your location in case of an emergency so that rescue crews will be able to find you.  A personal locator beacon must be activated manually, and it transmits data to a satellite system, allowing rescuers to track your location within about 2-3 miles. Some PLBs allow integration with GPS units, which can dramatically improve the ability to track your location.

Until 2003, PLBs could only be used in Alaska as part of an experimental program. After the experiment proved successful and helped save hundreds of lives, the FCC approved the program for use nationwide.

Alerts Rescuers to Your Location

If you spend a lot of time out in the wilderness, it is a good idea to carry a PLB for your safety. You are highly unlikely to ever need it, but a PLB is good to have with you in case you have exhausted all other methods of self-rescue and have run out of options. When activated, it will alert rescuers to your location, no matter how remote. It takes less than an hour for your location to be identified with a PLB. If your PLB is integrated with a GPS, it will take about five minutes to identify your location.

Initiates Search and Rescue Procedures

Personal locator beacons transmit powerful signals at 406 MHz, a distress frequency that is monitored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC). When activated, PLBs communicate with a network of satellites that relay your information to AFRCC, which will initiate the search and rescue procedures.

Long-Lasting Battery

Each PLB has a long-lasting lithium battery that remains dormant until the PLB is activated. The batteries will typically last at least 24 hours, although the battery life may be somewhat diminished in cold temperatures.

No Recurring Fees

You must register your PLB with NOAA, but you do not have to pay any recurring fees to maintain your PLB. You will be given a Unique Identifying Number that is linked to your personal information including your name, phone number, address and any medical conditions rescuers should be aware of.

Only Use as a Last Resort

A personal locator beacon should only be used as a last resort when all of your other attempts to be rescued have been exhausted. Your survival kit should include equipment to help rescuers find you, such as a signal mirror, fire-starting tools, a whistle and an emergency blanket.

Are all 7 of these essential skills in your survival inventory? Taking some time to see if you’ve safely covered all of the essential elements of survival skills.

1 – Find and Keep Clean Water Water is critical to our survival and is a top priority if you’re faced with a natural disaster or other emergency situation. While it’s a good idea to stockpile plenty of water, there’s only so much you can pack with you if you have to leave your home. Learn how to identify water sources and purify the water so it is safe to drink.

2 – Find Sustainable Food Sources Growing your own food in a garden is a great way to ensure you will be able to feed your family if the food supply is affected. If you have to leave your home, or if you need supplemental food supplies, it is essential that you are able to hunt and gather food outdoors. Hunting and fishing are excellent ways to supplement your food supply. Learn to identify edible plants and bugs to supplement your meals.

3 – Start Fire Fire-starting is one of the most important skills you can learn. Fire gives you the ability to cook food, boil water and stay warm. Make sure you include fire-starting tools in your survival kit. Learn how to build a fire in wet and dry conditions.

4 – Use First Aid Techniques Every survival kit should include first aid supplies, but they don’t do much good if you don’t know how to use them. It is important that you learn basic first aid skills such as CPR, cleaning and dressing wounds, making splints or slings and treating shock.

5 – Master Simple Sewing Many people fail to consider sewing when thinking about survival skills. However, this skill is one of the most important skills you can learn. This skill allows you to repair clothing, blankets and other fabrics that you will need to survive.

6 – Use Self-Defense Techniques In a true emergency, you may be required to defend yourself from desperate people or hungry wildlife. It will be up to you to defend yourself and your loved ones. Take self-defense classes and learn how to use a firearm. Make sure you have a quality knife in your survival kit.

7 – Develop a Survival Mentality When you’re faced with an emergency situation, it is important that you stay mentally strong. Survival training teaches you how to deal with a variety of possible scenarios so that you will be prepared when disaster strikes. With proper training and preparation, you will be ready to face any situation that may arise.

If you want to be prepared, do an inventory of your survival skills and start practicing the elements that need work.

A day hike nearly turned deadly for an Idaho man who fell down an icy slope on Indian Mountain in Southeast Idaho.

According the the Idaho State Journal, the hiker has been identified as Gary Fitzgerald Jr. He was hiking alone on March 2 when he fell about 200 feet down the icy slope. He says his backpack helped slow him down as he fell down the slope.

“My backpack is what actually stopped me from going all the way down,” Fitzgerald said.

He sustained knee and shoulder injuries during the fall.

“I had a lot of pain in my knee and I was just trying to figure out what to do next,” he said.

Thankfully, he was within cell phone range and was able to call 911.

However, he was trapped on the slope for nearly five hours before rescuers were able to get to him. Meanwhile, the temperature was dropping quickly and Fitzgerald did what he could to stay alive.

“I knew it was going to take a while for them to get to me,” Fitzgerald stated. “I hunkered down by a bush and did what I could to make a small fire.”

Due to the rugged terrain, the Portneuf Medical Center helicopter was unable to land on the ridge. The pilot circled around and made the decision to land below Fitzgerald.

Members of the Search and Rescue team used 4-wheelers to get close to Fitzgerald, but they still had to hike for half an hour to reach him. It was close to 9 p.m. when the rescuers finally got to him. According to the Idaho State Journal, the rescuers used a stretcher and ropes to lower Fitzgerald to the waiting helicopter.

Fitzgerald was airlifted to the Portneuf Medical Center, where he was treated for injuries that were not life-threatening.

Rescuers say he would have likely frozen to death if he didn’t have cell phone reception.

The situation could have turned out much differently for Fitzgerald, and he is lucky to be alive.

His story serves as a reminder that it is important to be prepared for the unexpected, even if you’re just going on a short day hike.

Before you head out on a hike, familiarize yourself with the area. It is easy to get disoriented in the wilderness, especially if you take a tumble down a slope and you’re unable to find your way back to the trail. Carry a GPS, map and/or compass to help you get your bearings if you get lost.

Let your friends or family members know where you’re planning to hike and how long you’ll be gone. Pack a survival kit that includes a knife, fire-starting tools, an emergency blanket, a first aid kit and a signal mirror. These basic supplies will provide the tools necessary to help you survive if you’re faced with unexpected circumstances.

Photo credit: skoeber via VisualHunt.com / CC BY-NC-SA

The desert climate is unforgiving. If you’re stranded on a roadside or lost in the wilderness, you run the risk of heat stress or dehydration.

Without proper intervention, these conditions can cause serious health problems. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can damage the brain and other vital organs. In severe cases, heat stroke can be fatal.

Before you head out in the desert—even if you’re just planning on driving through—remember these tips to stay hydrated.

#1 – Pre-Hydrate. It is a good idea to drink plenty of water anytime you are planning to be in the desert (even if you’re just planning on driving through). Start drinking plenty of water the night before so you don’t start the day dehydrated. Remember—if you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.

#2 – Pack Water. You do not want to find yourself stuck in the desert without water. Whether you’re planning on hiking, biking or you’re just driving through, pack plenty of water. It is recommended that you keep two gallons of water per person per day in your vehicle. If you’re hiking, you should carry at least a gallon of water for each day you plan to be out (although two gallons is safer).

#3 – Electrolytes. Hydration is important, but it’s also necessary to replenish the electrolytes that are lost through sweat. Pack salty snacks like pretzels or electrolyte powders you can put in your water.

#4 – Find Shade. The desert heat can be brutal. Conserve your energy and prevent heat stress by taking frequent breaks in the shade.

#5 – Identify Water Sources. Although the desert is hot and dry, you can find water sources if you know how to look for them. Talk to rangers or other knowledgeable folks about rainfall and watering holes before you head to the desert. Scan your surroundings and look for patches of green vegetation.

Cottonwoods and other trees need may indicate that a water source is present. The presence of animals and insects may also indicate that water is near. Use a water filter or another water purification system to treat the water before you drink it.

#6 – Soak Your Shirt. If you find a water source, you can soak your clothing in it to help you stay cool and prevent heat stress. Your clothes will dry quickly in the desert climate.

Surviving deadly desert heat isn’t easy, but with the right planning and practice it can be done. Know before you go, and you’ll get out alive.

The world is an unpredictable place, and seems to be growing more tumultuous every day. It is natural to prepare for the worst. Maybe you’ve stockpiled food, water and fuel and you feel like you’re prepared.

That’s a good start, but are you prepared for these four realistic threats that could affect your health, safety and finances?

#1 – Unexpected Loss of Income
 If you’re laid off or fired, or if a health condition makes you unable to work, your income will quickly take a hit. Therefore, it’s important that you prepare yourself in case you experience an unexpected loss of income.

Create an emergency fund that ideally contains enough to cover several months of expenses.

#2 – Criminals
 No one wants to be a victim of a crime. However, the truth is that there are criminals out there and they are a threat to your physical safety. Make sure you are trained in some form of self-defense. Consider carrying a gun for your protection, and make sure you are trained in how to use it safely and confidently.

Know how to defend yourself and your home in case of a home invasion.

#3 – Natural Disasters
No place is completely safe from natural disasters. Earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes and wildfires are frequent threats around the globe. Keep plenty of emergency supplies including food and water at home. Put together a bugout bag that’s stocked with tools that will help you survive a variety of situations.

Make sure you come up with a good evacuation plan in case of an emergency. Conduct regular drills at home to prepare your family for survival and come up with ways to improve your strategies.

#4 – Terrorism/Mass Shootings
 If you’re faced with a terrorist threat or a mass shooting while you’re away from home, do your best to stay calm and assess your options. If you’re not in a position to stop the threat, try to get away from the dangerous situation. Look for the safest exit option and move to a safer location if you can.

Seek cover from gunfire. If you’re hiding from an attacker, silence your cell phone.

It’s impossible to predict every situation that could occur, but it is possible to take steps to prepare yourself and your family for these realistic threats. With proper planning, training and tools, you will be well-equipped for survival against the odds.

Have you wondered what you would do if you were faced with a massive disaster such as a terrorist attack, natural disaster, widespread blackout, or other situation?

If the thought of surviving such an event is frightening and overwhelming, you’re not alone. Obviously, it’s impossible to predict the future to know exactly what type of situation may arise. However, there are a number of steps you can take to help you survive against the odds.

1 – Water

Water is absolutely necessary for survival. In case of a disaster, the water from your tap may no longer be safe to drink. In your home, you should store large drums of water and have several bottles of water you can easily grab should you need to evacuate. A good rule of thumb is to have one gallon of water per person per day.

Three days’ worth of water is usually recommended, but if you truly want to be prepared for a catastrophe, you’ll want a whole lot more.

In addition to storing plenty of water, identify water sources that can serve as a long-term water supply. Purchase a high-quality water filter and/or some iodine drops so that you can purify any water that you find.

This long-term water supply is your only chance of survival if the damage from the catastrophe lasts several weeks, months, or years.

2 – Food

Although you can survive for a while without food, you’ll need food on hand to keep your energy up when faced with a disaster. In an emergency situation, you may not have access to a grocery store or convenience store – or the shelves may have already been emptied of food.

Keep a supply of filling, shelf-stable foods on hand. Freeze-dried foods are an excellent option.

When you head to the grocery store each week, purchase a little extra of the foods you already eat such as spaghetti, pasta sauce, coffee, and canned tuna and soups. This habit will build up your food supply so you won’t have to be one of the desperate masses flocking to the grocery store to buy whatever is left on the shelves.

3 – Self-Defense

In a true disaster, you’ll need some form of self-defense to keep you and your family safe. The ability to defend your loved ones and your property will be essential.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. Dehydrated, hungry and injured people may do anything to get the supplies they need—and you need to be prepared.

Create a home defense plan, which should include a firearm and ammunition.

4 – Survival Kit

Put together a bag of supplies that you can have on hand—or that you can quickly grab and take with you in case you need to evacuate. At minimum, this bag should include flashlights, a quality first aid kit, fire starting tools, a survival knife and an emergency blanket. Don’t forget to include packable food and bottled water in your kit.