Survival
In the face of COVID-19, riots, and
just about most "survival situations",
what I find even more amusing than
deniers are those who claim to be
survival buffs, but always lose
their shit when it happens.
Inventory & Prepping
One of the many things I love about living out in
the forest is how much it's taught me about truly
surviving rough situations.
Apart from COVID-19, riots, and idiots, I was inspired
to make this entry based on my active involvement with
my community's FB page. Every time someone new moves
up here, they want to know what they'll need in order
to live comfortably. I've learned a LOT over the past
2 years; not just from my own experiences, but the FB
community. Very helpful people, good advice.
First and foremost, the absolute BEST tool
you can ever invest in, is KNOWLEDGE. The
more you learn, the better off you'll be.
Because what's the point of having a lot
of survival gear if you don't know how
to or don't practice to use it (like a
flint stick).
Now, we may not be entirely off-grid; we still rely
on PG&E for power, and EID for water, though we do
have a septic tank which only needs to be emptied
roughly a decade at a time.
However, it's been good learning how to use a generator,
be handy when it comes to fixing minor home issues, grow-
ing my own fruits, veggies, nuts, and medicinal plants,
and all the other tricks to make a bad situation better.
When the big snow storms hit us, we can always use the snow
to cool our refrigerated items when power is out. We can use
our fire pit and all the wood around us to cook. We have pro-
pane and propane accessories to keep us warm, I tell ya h-wat.
We have shovels to clear snow, and all manner of other tools.
Sure, we may not have every single thing or home-enhancer, YET.
However, those are in the plans.
So long as you have the items listed above,
(generator, propane heat) you can do pretty well.
Just recently received a 47 piece medical bug-out-bag for
emergencies. It's a very nice handy kit, and I plan to buy
another; one for the house, one for the car.
Currently waiting on a tactical backpack, in which
I'll keep all manner of bug-out-bag supplies.
Another great item?
Don't forget to bring a towel!
That's right, both Towelie and
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
were right - a towel has so many
uses, you'd be silly not to have
one always packed.
Why?
Think about it - it can be used to keep you
warm, as shelter, as a sail, as a weapon, as
a carrying sack, as clothing, in medical em-
ergencies to stop your bleeding, as a mask
to filter most particles out, and of course
as kindling. Probably even more than that
if you're creative.
For a basic BOB, this video is amazing,
as is Dr. Emily Zarka's other videos on
monster phenomena:
Other good items:
Hand-crank and/or solar- and battery-powered multi-function radio.
Plenty of power banks - I prefer this one.
USEFUL SKILLS:
Basic first aid.
Hunting and fishing, of course.
Gardening - a MUST,
or at least hydroponics.
Cooking. REAL cooking.
Basic engineering.
Basic woodcraft.
Basic bushcraft.
Electronics!
You wouldn't think being handy with electronics would
serve well in a situation without "power", but anyone
with a decent understanding of engineering knows you
can do just about anything in a pinch as a substitute
for daily conveniences.
I love the YouTube Channel DIY Perks.
Example?
How about a DIY thermo-electric generator:
Apart from our generator (which thankfully is dual-fuel),
since we have a propane tank anyway, going to invest in
a tankless liquid propane water heater. Part is about
$1500, and labor to install plus the additional copper
piping will probably bring the total to $2000, but
will be worth it.
Also planning to invest in solar panels and a home
sized wind turbine. Along with one of my current
experiments - an algae-based green energy system.
The more sources of potential power generation,
the better off you'll be when the grid fails.
And during good times, the cheaper your energy
bill will be.
What could take the prepping to the next level?
Fallout shelter.
Here is a basic idea.
While I may not have one currently, it's in the plans.
No, really.
I've drafted blueprints.
Not sharing my specifics here, but you want to make
sure there's more than one way in/out. The more
concealed, the better.
Within the shelter itself will be 2-3 beds (bunk beds
and/or cot), the extra freezer currently in the garage,
a computer system which is hooked up to old webcams I
kept to keep an eye on everything outside, and plenty
of storage space, with of course hygienic amenities.
Speaking of visual security, might sound odd, but
another asset would be a camera drone, like this
one I bought made by Contixo.
To top it off, a hydroponic system with artificial
energy efficient lighting, so we can grow some
fruits, nuts, and veggies.
As for water, that'll be tricky.
Of course I'll have some large containers regularly filled,
but it's inevitable we'll need more at some point. Thank-
fully, we're not far from a few natural water sources.
And for that, it's always great to have a life straw,
and a way to purify the water when you return.
Deniers and Wannabes
Okay, so my last post was enough of a rant
on the COVID deniers. I mean, how stupid
do you have to be to act all tough until
a real situation comes up, only to be in
total denial of it?
And then there are the wannabes.
These idiots... /SMH.
These are the kinds of not even macho, purely
egotistical, lazy gamer who likes to mentally
masturbate to the IDEA of knowing how to sur-
vive an apocalyptic scenario because they play
a bunch of Call of Duty or some other game,
where they can just go back to their last
save point, but don't have a single clue
when it comes to actually being prepared.
I'm speaking of the average city-dwelling,
apartment-living, privileged consumer of
red white and blue bullshit that makes
them think they are awesome until the
real deal hits.
Sure, I admit my privilege to own a home,
and I use it. Also, no amount of privilege
checking will create food, water, or com-
fort in a dire situation... it will, how-
ever, offer yourself up as the next meal.
The last thing anyone wants to be during
an emergency is an annoying nag. So much
for the Coastal Californian population
in this situation.
Based on the reactions we've seen all over the
Un-tied States of Retardica, most people seem to
lose their shit when they can't go out for even
a MONTH or two. Based on that alone, how the hell
do they think they could survive not having power
for months on end in a level 3 emergency/disaster?
Add to that their resistance to wear protective gear.
So, Kyle, let me get this straight... you swing around your
pickup truck and tools and gun like you're some huge dooms-
day prepper, but you won't wear a mask because toxic mascu-
linity has programmed you to think it makes you look weak?
Well, if that's more important than how much worse you'll
feel when you're sick, then by all means... it's just too
bad you'll take down others with you, with your selfish
egotistical entitled attitude and wannabe mindset.
I also find it hilarious how X'ians preach all the time about
"having faith in what you cannot see with your eyes", but go
into total denial about microscopic organisms with real con-
sequences... and when they catch it, just blow it off as
"God's Will", because their ego can't take the hit enough
to admit their willful ignorance.
I don't know how these idiots expect a pandemic to play
out, unless they're basing it off unrealistic models;
as movies like Outbreak, or the Bubonic Plague and
have to SEE the boils or instant death to believe.
Even then, they'd still probably think "Well I'm
special, it won't happen to me!".
"An army that is well-fed can easily be starved."
~Sun Tzu, "The Art of War"
One of the many books I'm glad I read.
Tzu's philosophy has transcended centuries; the above
quote is why I'm glad I always wanted to get out of
city life. Because when shit hits the fan, it always
happens first and worst in large concentrations of
humans. The truth of the matter is, most will not
be prepared. They might have a basic plan, maybe
some supplies, but never follow through with the
actual preparing.
Yes, I admit, it takes privilege and disposable
income to properly prepare. Well, then what are
you doing? Sure, it sucks to work, and even have
a second or third job, but if you want to make
it, you have to sacrifice, and stop wasting
money on things like games/systems or your
Vin Diesel-wannabe car.
Instead, they lay back, get used to a sedentary routine,
and don't give a single thought about how it would be
without power, entertainment, or generally living in
a way different than they currently do. When SHTF,
they will panic, like the mass majority, and too
little, too late, venture out to their closest
supply areas, only to realize others got there
first, and cleaned house.
Most of these types will likely perish within the
first week or so. Especially if there's no running
water. Without electricity, their cold food will
go bad within 4 hours, maybe 6-8 depending on
how cold their refrigerator can remain.
If they have a car, others will likely have broken into it
for potential supplies, stolen it entirely, or be waiting
for you to come out with the keys so they can steal it at
gun- or knife-point. If by some chance their car is intact
and they don't get jacked, better hope they have at least
half a tank of gas - because no gas stations will be open,
let alone the traffic jams. A motor- or bicycle would be
the best bet.
The bottom line is, for all the countless scenarios, city-dwellers,
or those in major population centers, likely won't make it long, or
far. Humans are way too selfish to want to band together like you
see in the movies. They will be thinking more about how many extra
mouths they'll have to feed. And I'm sure many people's first tho-
ught would be a mall, grocery, or hardware store. Those who do ma-
nage to take and hold those spots will make it hell for anyone
else who wants in on supplies.
In which case - you better have something to barter with. Money
won't mean shit, so you better have either some alcohol, cigare-
ttes, weed, food, tools, lighters, batteries, firearms, gas, a
generator, or offer your own ass and/or mouth - or another
skill they don't have. Like mechanics, first aid/medical,
or even engineering or gardening (better already have
harvest ready to share).
just about most "survival situations",
what I find even more amusing than
deniers are those who claim to be
survival buffs, but always lose
their shit when it happens.
Inventory & Prepping
One of the many things I love about living out in
the forest is how much it's taught me about truly
surviving rough situations.
Apart from COVID-19, riots, and idiots, I was inspired
to make this entry based on my active involvement with
my community's FB page. Every time someone new moves
up here, they want to know what they'll need in order
to live comfortably. I've learned a LOT over the past
2 years; not just from my own experiences, but the FB
community. Very helpful people, good advice.
First and foremost, the absolute BEST tool
you can ever invest in, is KNOWLEDGE. The
more you learn, the better off you'll be.
Because what's the point of having a lot
of survival gear if you don't know how
to or don't practice to use it (like a
flint stick).
Now, we may not be entirely off-grid; we still rely
on PG&E for power, and EID for water, though we do
have a septic tank which only needs to be emptied
roughly a decade at a time.
However, it's been good learning how to use a generator,
be handy when it comes to fixing minor home issues, grow-
ing my own fruits, veggies, nuts, and medicinal plants,
and all the other tricks to make a bad situation better.
When the big snow storms hit us, we can always use the snow
to cool our refrigerated items when power is out. We can use
our fire pit and all the wood around us to cook. We have pro-
pane and propane accessories to keep us warm, I tell ya h-wat.
We have shovels to clear snow, and all manner of other tools.
Sure, we may not have every single thing or home-enhancer, YET.
However, those are in the plans.
So long as you have the items listed above,
(generator, propane heat) you can do pretty well.
Just recently received a 47 piece medical bug-out-bag for
emergencies. It's a very nice handy kit, and I plan to buy
another; one for the house, one for the car.
Currently waiting on a tactical backpack, in which
I'll keep all manner of bug-out-bag supplies.
Another great item?
Don't forget to bring a towel!
That's right, both Towelie and
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
were right - a towel has so many
uses, you'd be silly not to have
one always packed.
Why?
Think about it - it can be used to keep you
warm, as shelter, as a sail, as a weapon, as
a carrying sack, as clothing, in medical em-
ergencies to stop your bleeding, as a mask
to filter most particles out, and of course
as kindling. Probably even more than that
if you're creative.
For a basic BOB, this video is amazing,
as is Dr. Emily Zarka's other videos on
monster phenomena:
Click to viewOther good items:
Hand-crank and/or solar- and battery-powered multi-function radio.
Plenty of power banks - I prefer this one.
USEFUL SKILLS:
Basic first aid.
Hunting and fishing, of course.
Gardening - a MUST,
or at least hydroponics.
Cooking. REAL cooking.
Basic engineering.
Basic woodcraft.
Basic bushcraft.
Electronics!
You wouldn't think being handy with electronics would
serve well in a situation without "power", but anyone
with a decent understanding of engineering knows you
can do just about anything in a pinch as a substitute
for daily conveniences.
I love the YouTube Channel DIY Perks.
Example?
How about a DIY thermo-electric generator:
Apart from our generator (which thankfully is dual-fuel),
since we have a propane tank anyway, going to invest in
a tankless liquid propane water heater. Part is about
$1500, and labor to install plus the additional copper
piping will probably bring the total to $2000, but
will be worth it.
Also planning to invest in solar panels and a home
sized wind turbine. Along with one of my current
experiments - an algae-based green energy system.
The more sources of potential power generation,
the better off you'll be when the grid fails.
And during good times, the cheaper your energy
bill will be.
What could take the prepping to the next level?
Fallout shelter.
Here is a basic idea.
While I may not have one currently, it's in the plans.
No, really.
I've drafted blueprints.
Not sharing my specifics here, but you want to make
sure there's more than one way in/out. The more
concealed, the better.
Within the shelter itself will be 2-3 beds (bunk beds
and/or cot), the extra freezer currently in the garage,
a computer system which is hooked up to old webcams I
kept to keep an eye on everything outside, and plenty
of storage space, with of course hygienic amenities.
Speaking of visual security, might sound odd, but
another asset would be a camera drone, like this
one I bought made by Contixo.
To top it off, a hydroponic system with artificial
energy efficient lighting, so we can grow some
fruits, nuts, and veggies.
As for water, that'll be tricky.
Of course I'll have some large containers regularly filled,
but it's inevitable we'll need more at some point. Thank-
fully, we're not far from a few natural water sources.
And for that, it's always great to have a life straw,
and a way to purify the water when you return.
Deniers and Wannabes
Okay, so my last post was enough of a rant
on the COVID deniers. I mean, how stupid
do you have to be to act all tough until
a real situation comes up, only to be in
total denial of it?
And then there are the wannabes.
These idiots... /SMH.
These are the kinds of not even macho, purely
egotistical, lazy gamer who likes to mentally
masturbate to the IDEA of knowing how to sur-
vive an apocalyptic scenario because they play
a bunch of Call of Duty or some other game,
where they can just go back to their last
save point, but don't have a single clue
when it comes to actually being prepared.
I'm speaking of the average city-dwelling,
apartment-living, privileged consumer of
red white and blue bullshit that makes
them think they are awesome until the
real deal hits.
Sure, I admit my privilege to own a home,
and I use it. Also, no amount of privilege
checking will create food, water, or com-
fort in a dire situation... it will, how-
ever, offer yourself up as the next meal.
The last thing anyone wants to be during
an emergency is an annoying nag. So much
for the Coastal Californian population
in this situation.
Based on the reactions we've seen all over the
Un-tied States of Retardica, most people seem to
lose their shit when they can't go out for even
a MONTH or two. Based on that alone, how the hell
do they think they could survive not having power
for months on end in a level 3 emergency/disaster?
Add to that their resistance to wear protective gear.
So, Kyle, let me get this straight... you swing around your
pickup truck and tools and gun like you're some huge dooms-
day prepper, but you won't wear a mask because toxic mascu-
linity has programmed you to think it makes you look weak?
Well, if that's more important than how much worse you'll
feel when you're sick, then by all means... it's just too
bad you'll take down others with you, with your selfish
egotistical entitled attitude and wannabe mindset.
I also find it hilarious how X'ians preach all the time about
"having faith in what you cannot see with your eyes", but go
into total denial about microscopic organisms with real con-
sequences... and when they catch it, just blow it off as
"God's Will", because their ego can't take the hit enough
to admit their willful ignorance.
I don't know how these idiots expect a pandemic to play
out, unless they're basing it off unrealistic models;
as movies like Outbreak, or the Bubonic Plague and
have to SEE the boils or instant death to believe.
Even then, they'd still probably think "Well I'm
special, it won't happen to me!".
"An army that is well-fed can easily be starved."
~Sun Tzu, "The Art of War"
One of the many books I'm glad I read.
Tzu's philosophy has transcended centuries; the above
quote is why I'm glad I always wanted to get out of
city life. Because when shit hits the fan, it always
happens first and worst in large concentrations of
humans. The truth of the matter is, most will not
be prepared. They might have a basic plan, maybe
some supplies, but never follow through with the
actual preparing.
Yes, I admit, it takes privilege and disposable
income to properly prepare. Well, then what are
you doing? Sure, it sucks to work, and even have
a second or third job, but if you want to make
it, you have to sacrifice, and stop wasting
money on things like games/systems or your
Vin Diesel-wannabe car.
Instead, they lay back, get used to a sedentary routine,
and don't give a single thought about how it would be
without power, entertainment, or generally living in
a way different than they currently do. When SHTF,
they will panic, like the mass majority, and too
little, too late, venture out to their closest
supply areas, only to realize others got there
first, and cleaned house.
Most of these types will likely perish within the
first week or so. Especially if there's no running
water. Without electricity, their cold food will
go bad within 4 hours, maybe 6-8 depending on
how cold their refrigerator can remain.
If they have a car, others will likely have broken into it
for potential supplies, stolen it entirely, or be waiting
for you to come out with the keys so they can steal it at
gun- or knife-point. If by some chance their car is intact
and they don't get jacked, better hope they have at least
half a tank of gas - because no gas stations will be open,
let alone the traffic jams. A motor- or bicycle would be
the best bet.
The bottom line is, for all the countless scenarios, city-dwellers,
or those in major population centers, likely won't make it long, or
far. Humans are way too selfish to want to band together like you
see in the movies. They will be thinking more about how many extra
mouths they'll have to feed. And I'm sure many people's first tho-
ught would be a mall, grocery, or hardware store. Those who do ma-
nage to take and hold those spots will make it hell for anyone
else who wants in on supplies.
In which case - you better have something to barter with. Money
won't mean shit, so you better have either some alcohol, cigare-
ttes, weed, food, tools, lighters, batteries, firearms, gas, a
generator, or offer your own ass and/or mouth - or another
skill they don't have. Like mechanics, first aid/medical,
or even engineering or gardening (better already have
harvest ready to share).