Show Notes
This week I start the
show with the Pandemic Quick Kits review, then Blizzard Survival 20% Discount
Offer, Survival Weapons, The Ribzwear 30% Discount Offer, Emergency Essentials,
The Wilderness121 10% Discount Offer, Quick Fried Camp Squirrel, The Field
Leisure 10% Discount Offer, Being Prepared, The Buggrub 10% Discount Offer, Survival
Kit Preparation, The Hunters Knives 10% Discount Offer, Boiled British Freshwater Fish Recipes, Catapult Hunting and UK Law, Eating
Crows and Some Recipes, Bug-Out Checklist, DIY Survival Candles, The Best Meal of the Day, Common
Prepping Mistakes, Surviving in the Woods, The Bug out Week end is coming.
I have a request from
Chris T. on Twitter to promote a petition to demand the release of Marine
A. I have placed a link to the petition at the top of my blog please take the
time to sign it.
Pandemic Quick Kits Review
These handy Pandemic Quick Kits are designed for fast and
inexpensive protection from Contagions when you or your family members have to
leave your safe zone.
Simply discard the entire suit when you return to insure
that no contaminants enter your home. Not meant for close continuous patient
contact.
Contents:
Coveralls w/Zipper
Adhesive tape to seal ankles/wrists
Shoe Covers
Hair Net
Goggles - splash-proof and anti-fogging
N95 Medical Respirator
Latex Gloves 2-pair
Bio-Hazard Disposal Bag
PAWS Antimicrobial Hand wipes - 4
Buy our inexpensive Pandemic Quick-Kits by the bulk and
supply your family or even your entire neighbourhood.
Doctors, Dentists and Medical Technicians wear these
disposable Coveralls to protect their clothing from splash and bacteria.
We still recommend a complete Contagion Kit, but for fast,
everyday use, these packs are inexpensive to store and convenient to use and
discard.
As this life saving kit only arrived this Thursday I have
not had too much time to play with it, but I felt it was important enough to
open the pack and try on the contents.
Firstly it is obvious that whoever designed this kit knew
what they were doing as they have thought of everything in fact this is a
complete pandemic kit and you should all have one for each member of your
family or group as an aid to bugging out or to be worn if and when you have to
travel through an Ebola hotspot.
The one piece suit is a one size fits all and is very easy
indeed to put on, and with the shoe covers on and my ankles and wrists taped I
did feel protected and I have to say it was very comfortable to wear.
Now combine that with the goggles which are splash-proof and
anti-fogging the N95 Medical quality Respirator and the Latex Gloves of which
there are 2 pairs and I really did feel safe and confident that if I had to
enter an area where people had contracted Ebola or any other contagious disease
pre-or post SHTF that it would provide me with the protection I would need.
The kit also comes with a hair net to tuck away long hair
for example PAWS Antimicrobial hand wipes which kill 99% of germs on the skin
while removing dirt and debris.
I have no idea how they can produce such important and
necessary kit for such a low price and then offer discount for bulk orders.
This is just what we in the prepper and survivalist
community have been looking for, something that really works at an affordable
price.
At Just $11.95 each
which at today’s rate is £7.47 they are amazing value and top quality
I cannot recommend this kit highly enough and I must really
thank Todd West, GM
Of First Aid Global, LLC who pulled out all the stops to get
a Pandemic Quick Kit to me.
You can order yours directly from the company
Blizzard Survival 20% Discount Offer
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Survival Weapons
For some people, the idea of being in the wilderness without
a weapon is very scary. In fact, I am often asked, "How do you defend
yourself?" I find this question quite amusing because I am to "defend
myself against what?
Wild attacking rabbits, squirrels, or ducks?" Unless a
person is attempting to survive in a combat area, the actual need for a weapon
for personal protection varies. In most cases no weapon is needed at all,
unless it is being used to assist the survivor in getting something to eat or
in jobs around camp. I would say that in the UK the need to have a weapon for
protection against wild animals is not very great.
Most wild animals know man, and usually try to avoid
us. Now, if an animal is rabid though, anything is possible.
So, you feel the need for a weapon? I agree it is a good
idea to have one, but mainly to kill game caught in snares, traps, or cornered.
If you feel the need for safety and security and desire to have a large weapon,
you can make those as well.
A lot of the weapons you make will depend on how and where
you ended up in a survival situation. If you are a hunter and become lost, or
in some manner are faced with survival, you may have weapons with you. Or, you
may not. A lot of different situations can occur in the wilderness. Weapons can
be lost or broken.
If you are the survivor of a plane crash, a sinking or
overturned boat, (and the boat you were on washed up on shore, you will be in
luck.) or a stranded vehicle, you may have more materials to work with.
The wings of an aircraft will provide you with shade and
protection from the sun. But, vehicles can provide you with many items to make
tools, weapons, and other needed items. The weapons you can make from wreckage
or a stranded vehicle will be limited only by your imagination. Without any
wreckage the task of making weapons is harder, but not all that difficult.
Almost anything around you can become a weapon. Those of you
who have attended self-defence classes know that a pencil, car key, bottle,
book, comb, or even a thumb can become effective weapons.
Regardless of the type of weapon you may want, you will be
limited by the sources around you. In some areas you may not have many stones,
rocks, or even wood.
In other survival situations you may not even be on land,
you may be at sea. In all cases, look around and take inventory of all of your
equipment. Survivors have used the sharp edges from a ration can to make a
crude knife to gut fish with.
Others who used a sharpened belt buckle to cut with, and
still others who field dressed small game with their teeth. You have weapons
all around you, so look for them. Keep your imagination active at all times.
One of the most handy survival weapons is a simple club. It
is very useful in killing small game and for general camp use. It is simple to
make and can be constructed of many different materials. Using a forked piece
of green limb (hard wood works the best), a large rock or piece of bone, and
some vine, wire, or rope, you can make a club in next to no time.
Make sure the limb has a Y section on it and fit the rock
into this section, then secure the stone or bone in place using wire, rope,
cord, vine, or wet rawhide. Wet rawhide is the best because it will shrink as
it dries and holds the stone securely in place
A simple knife for stabbing with can be made from pieces of
bone or from an antler. Just break off or locate a piece that is large enough
to hold securely and has a sharp point. While you will not be able to cut with
it, it can be used to stab with. Or, you can use a sharp tipped piece of
wood.
If you need a knife to cut with, consider using sharp edged
bones, hard stone, metal from a wreckage, wood, or even glass for the blade. In
a survival situation you may have to use what you can find to make tools and
weapons with.
Almost any sharp edge from any hard material can be used. If
you want to take the time to make an affective knife. Find a piece of green
hard wood, split it slightly, insert your blade, and then wrap the handle tightly. Once again, wet rawhide
makes the best wrap because it shrinks when it dries and will hold the blade
firmly in place.
Another weapon that is easy to make is a spear. It is very
useful in killing any game you don't want to touch or get too close to.
It could be what I call an injury causing animal. With
injury causing animals remember horns, antlers, teeth, fangs, and hooves can
all cause injuries.
A spear can be made as simply as sharpening the end of long
green piece of wood and hardening it in a fire. Or, you can attach a blade
point using the same types of materials you used for your knife blade.
And, the spear point can be attached exactly like your knife
blade was, using wire, vine, string, cord, or wet rawhide. An easier way to
attach a point to a spear shaft is to simply tie it one. Place a knife parallel
to and tightly up against the shaft of the spear. Then lash it on securely.
Two more weapons that you can make, and use mainly against
small game, are the catapult and bola.
For the catapult you start by cutting a Y shaped piece of
green wood, cutting two strips of rubber (from a tire or rubber tubing) about
eight inches long, and a pouch that can be made from cloth or leather.
Secure the two strips of rubber on both sides of the Y on
the wood near the top, tie the pouch to the open ends of the rubber strips, and
you now have a weapon. You can use small pebbles as ammo. And with practice you
can procure a bird or rabbit for dinner. A hint here, use two or three small
pebbles when you shoot (makes it more likely to hit the target).
The bola is much more difficult to use but is simple to
make. Tie all three ends of the pieces of string or cord parachute 550 cord is
best together at one end. At the other ends, tie a stone on each piece of line.
You now have three cords with a stone on each end that meets
and is secured at the other end. To use the bola, grasp the tied end, twirl it
over your head, release it toward your target. Once you release the bola, it
opens up and covers a very wide path.
While it is very effective against birds, it can also wrap
around the legs of larger game and trip it. Then, using your newly made spear
and knife, you can kill it and process the meat.
While the making and using of primitive weapons takes some
time, it can be done. I suggest using your spear to stab with, not throwing. If
you only have one spear and your throw it, what do you do if the animal turns
on you? Do not throw the only weapon you have available, keep it in your hands.
Plus, depending on the type of blade your spear has, you may
break it. These same weapons were used by early man many years ago and they
were deadly in the hands of a person who knew how to use them. The Native North
Americans kept their families alive with such weapons by providing both food
and protection. If others can do it, so can you.
There are unlimited sources around most survivors to use as
weapons. Keep in mind that some of these sources may not be recognized as such
by most survivors. Bone, glass, and rough metals, stones, antlers, horns, and
other materials can be modified for use as weapons. Keep your survival mind
active and evaluating all material at hand.
I realize there may be many more different types of weapons
made from natural materials, but as usual, my purpose is to get you thinking.
I want you to think about making weapons from materials you
have on hand. Some of the weapons I have explained can of course be made in
many different, and perhaps better ways.
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A front pack is a pack or bag that allows for access of
equipment from the persons chest. Front packs first and foremost allow for easy
access of gear without the removal of any equipment.
In many adventure outdoor activities it can be critical to
the sport to have the ability to reach essential gear fast without the removal
of a backpack. Simplicity is the foremost purpose of the front pack but there
are many additional benefits as well.
In all there are unlimited uses for the front pack. Front
packs are the best compliment to any outdoorsman’s gear when accessibility,
functionality, mobility and simplicity are required. From horseback riding,
long distance biking, motorcycling and kayaking.
All sports where fast and easy access of gear is essential,
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Emergency Essentials
Even though emergency situations don't happen very often,
when they do, they impact our lives to a great extent. To minimize or eliminate
the negative effects of a certain emergency, you need to be prepared and have
the emergency essentials, in terms of knowledge, food, water, shelter, and an
escape plan.
When disaster strikes, we are caught by surprise and usually
unprepared. But emergencies sometimes have a similar pattern and cause the same
problem even if they're different in nature, therefore the steps to prepare for them is the same, for
example stocking food and water are steps that can help you in most national
emergencies, and that's what we will discuss now.
Imagine there is an emergency in your city, or country,
people will scramble to the shops, there will be a panic, looting, and so on
will result, if you still decide to go to the store, you will find empty
shelves or even closed shops. Wouldn't it be better if when there is such an
emergency, you sit with your family, and use the food and water you have
stored? You bet it would be.
As you stock food, take into account your family’s unique
needs. Try to include foods that they will enjoy and that are also high in
calories and nutrition. Foods that require no refrigeration, water, special
preparation, or cooking are best. Take into consideration individuals with
special diets and allergies such as babies and the ill. Make sure you have a
manual can opener and disposable utensils. Don’t forget non-perishable foods
for your pets.
Keep food in a dry, cool dark area if possible.
Open food boxes and other re-sealable containers carefully
so that you can close them tightly after each use.
Wrap perishable foods, such as cookies and crackers, in
plastic bags and keep them in sealed containers.
Empty open packages of sugar, dried fruits, and nuts into
screw-top jars or air-tight canisters for protection from pests.
Inspect all food for signs of spoilage before use.
Throw out canned goods that become swollen, dented, expired,
or corroded.
Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh
supplies, dated with ink or marker. Place new items at the back of the storage
area and older ones in front.
The following list shows the rough expiration dates of many
types of food. So make sure to replace the easily perishable food more often.
You should use the following within six months:
Powdered milk - boxed
Dry, crisp crackers
Potatoes
These foods should be used within one year, or before the
date indicated on the label:
Canned condensed meat and vegetable soups
Canned fruits, fruit juices, and vegetables
Ready-to-eat cereals and uncooked instant cereals
Peanut butter
Jelly
Hard candy and canned nuts
Vitamins
These foods however may be stored indefinitely (in proper
containers and conditions):
Wheat
Vegetable oils
Dried corn
Baking powder
Soybeans
Instant coffee, tea, and cocoa
Salt
Noncarbonated soft drinks
White rice
Bouillon products
Dry pasta
Honey
Powdered milk – in nitrogen-packed cans
Having an ample supply of clean water is a top priority in
an emergency. A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts (half
gallon) of water each day. People in hot environments, children, nursing
mothers, and ill people will require even more. You will also need water for
food preparation and hygiene.
Store at least one gallon per person, per day. Consider
storing at least a two-week supply of water for each member of your family. If
you are unable to store this quantity, store as much as you can. If supplies
run low, never ration water. Drink the amount you need today, and try to find
more for tomorrow. You can minimize the amount of water your body needs by
reducing activity and staying cool.
If there is an emergency, and you used up all the water you
stocked in your home, try the following. Safe water sources in your home
include the water in your hot- water tank, pipes, and ice cubes. You should not
use water from toilet flush tanks or bowls, radiators, waterbeds, or swimming
pools/spas.
You will need to protect the water sources already in your
home from contamination if you hear reports of broken water or sewage pipes, or
if local officials advise you of a problem. To shut off incoming water, locate
the main valve and turn it to the closed position. Be sure you and other family
members know beforehand how to perform this important procedure.
To use the water in your pipes, let air into the plumbing by
turning on the tap in your home at the highest level. A small amount of water
will trickle out. Then obtain water from the lowest tap in the home.
To use the water in your hot-water tank, be sure the
electricity or gas is off, and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start
the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve at the tank and turning
on a hot-water tap. Refill the tank before turning the gas or electricity back
on. If the gas is turned off, a professional will be needed to turn it back on.
Wilderness121’s 10% discount
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Quick Fried Camp Squirrel
INGREDIENTS
One to two squirrels
2 to 3 cups flour (bread crumbs)
3 to 4 whole eggs
Some seasoning if you wanted to spice it up.
A tablespoon or two of white wine.
Directions
Place pan on High.
Add spices to the eggs.
Dip squirrel into the eggs until fully covered.
Next place into the four or bread crumbs.
Place into the pan turn the heat down to medium high.
Add white wine just before adding the squirrel.
Cook the squirrel for roughly 3 to 5 minutes or until golden
brown.
Then serve.
When preparing game birds, you can cook young birds by
broiling, roasting, or in any of your other favourite recipes. But older birds
should be stewed or braised to tenderize them. Or if you wish, you can try a
commercial tenderizer.
Just sprinkle the
tenderizer in the body cavity of the bird and let the bird stand in the refrigerator.
The amount of time the bird needs to remain in the refrigerator depends on the
size of the bird. For example, a large bird such as a turkey will need 12 to 24
hours for the tenderizer to work.
If you're not sure how many servings you'll get from each
bird this may help you:
1 serving = 2 quail
1-2 squab
2-3 doves
1 small duck.
You can figure on at least 2 servings from 1 pheasant or 1
large duck.
A 4-6 lb. goose should feed 4-6 people.
Rabbit Stew or Pheasant Stew
1 or 2 rabbits or
pheasants
Salt, pepper and paprika to taste
1 c. sour cream
1 c. cream of
mushroom soup
1/4 tsp.
Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp. chopped
onions
Preparation:
Season cut up meat. Mix sour cream, soup and Worcestershire
sauce. Add chopped onions. Cook in slow cooker on low for 8 hours. Or on the
edge of a camp fire stirring regularly and moderating the heat.
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Being Prepared
A popular misconception about being prepared is that you are
preparing for a total, catastrophic meltdown that throws us all back to the
Stone Age.
One minute we're living, the next we're running around in
chest rigs and getting into fire fights with those who would take what we have.
SHTF event can be anything from an aggravating
annoyance to what I have just described.
Anyway you can move, or leave, if it's a localized event so
it's not SHTF
There are any number of scenarios where this simply isn't
true.
Medical issues, family responsibilities, jobs, resources,
quickness of weather events, etc can all conspire to prevent you from dashing
off to safety.
And even if you could, I can't think of a worse case of the
poop hitting the ventilation than having my home destroyed or a family member
killed.
Minor things like
flat tires are so easy to deal with that they aren't SHTF events
Really? Your car gets a flat in a coned off work area on the
motorway, it's hanging out into a lane of traffic and the flat tire is on the
traffic side.
As those cars whiz by
your head please explain to the class how you aren't in a bad situation.
Take it a step further. Now it's your wife or daughter. When
they call you on the phone in hysterics just tell them to suck it up and how
"minor" the situation is.
Let me know how it
turns out.
You break your leg. Not a SHTF event right? What if you just
started a small cleaning business? You have three contracts at different
apartment complexes and are a one-man operation.
Now you can't work, can't bill and can't make money. Oh yea,
your apartments will likely replace you with someone else.
Call me crazy, but something like that seems pretty bad no?
Because a situation is minor for you doesn't mean it will be
minor for all in your care.
Furthermore, any number of circumstances can ambush you to
turn a minor event into a full blown catastrophe.
If there aren't
zombies it's not SHTF
Are you 5 years old? Forget the zombies for a minute.
You go out to dinner with the family. You round the corner
on the way home to find your house has burnt to the ground.
A chemical truck spills and releases toxic gas into the air.
You have to leave and leave right now.
You have just enough time to grab your family but have to
leave your dog standing on the front porch.
A major blizzard snows in your elderly father. His power
goes out and he needs his insulin to survive.
There is no way for him to leave, and very little chance of
someone getting to him.
You move into a dream home for which you have saved your
entire life. Six months later an earthquake damages it beyond repair.
You then find out your cut-rate insurance doesn't cover the
damages and you don't have the money to fix your house.
You are on the way to take your oldest son to college. As
you pull out of the driveway the phone rings. It's your boss and you've just
been fired.
Now sure, those are fabricated situations. But you can't
deny that in each one of them some level of crap has solidly hit the fan.
If I prepare for Mad-Max I'm prepared for all of the smaller
things that could happen
People who focus on Mad-Max also tend to focus a lot on
MRE's and guns.
They also tend to overlook little things like tire repair
kits, quality footware, cooking equipment, how they will take care of bodily
waste, etc etc.
While you are planning for your trip to live in the woods,
did you remember to buy rock salt so when your driveway is a sheet of ice you
can get out?
You know what else
they tend to overlook?
Training. Yes. Really important to know how to do stuff, not
just have kickass Condor and Uncle Mikes gear.
It’s just too easy to get wrapped up in the fantasy land of
becoming a wandering one-man army in your brand new Multicam kit and your 1000
yard rifle when all you think about is SHTF.
Trust me, it will
cause you to overlook a simple preparation along the way.
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Survival Kit Preparation
The best way to survive a disaster or emergency situation is
to be prepared for it. People have known this for years; it’s the reason our
society has storm cellars and fire extinguishers.
Outdoor enthusiasts, however, face a more challenging
obstacle when trying to prepare for an unfortunate camping, hiking, hunting, or
fishing emergency.
Or preppers and
survivalists training for a SHTF event out in the woods, or even Bugging Out
for real.
The sheer number of different types of disasters that can
happen to an even seasoned outdoor enthusiast makes it especially hard to
prepare essential tools and supplies before leaving on an adventure.
You might think did I forget something? Do I have too much
of one item? Not enough? Putting together a survival kit for you can be
frustrating, time-consuming, and costly. Luckily, many outdoor supply companies
carry pre-assembled survival kits, or can at least help you put yours together.
But first, you’ll want to understand the specific types of
dangers your outdoor activity presents and the best ways to protect yourself
against them.
Different outdoor activities present different physical
challenges to enthusiasts. These different challenges require different types
of survival kits.
The camping or hiking enthusiast will most likely be more
concerned with reliable navigation tools, such as maps and compasses, and
making sure he or she has plenty of provisions.
The hunter, however, might be more concerned with his or her
protection against potentially dangerous animals, while those who fish will
obviously want to bring plenty of dry clothes.
It’s important not to get too caught up in the niche of your
specific outdoor activity, however. Just because the main point of your trip
may be camping doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring along a hunting knife or fishhooks.
The prepper and
survivalist must plan for all these eventualities while either training or
seeking a covert life style.
Another important aspect of your adventure to consider when
deciding on a survival kit is the climate and terrain of where your outdoor
activity is taking place. Different weather extremes can cause problems for
outdoor enthusiasts, even on a single trip.
Hikers traveling through the cool lowland lakes area can
still experience heat exhaustion, especially in the summer, just as desert
campers can easily freeze at night despite the daytime heat.
Get a professional opinion of what you should include in
your survival kit if you are unfamiliar with the climate and weather patterns
of the area you’re exploring.
Of course, there are basic items that are essential to any
survival kit, no matter what your outdoor activity of choice. The most
important components of a survival kit are ones that satisfy the following
needs: protection against the elements, or, shelter; first aid or medical supplies;
food, water, or the tools needed to procure them; ways to signal rescuers; and
finally, tools to help guide outdoor enthusiasts back to familiar territory.
The duration of your outdoor adventure will determine how
thoroughly you should pack your survival kit, but here are a few essentials.
The best way to keep warm and protect your from the elements
is by packing lightweight, water-resistant clothing and blankets. Reflective
aluminium blankets help retain body heat and act as signals to rescuers.
Waterproof ponchos are an effective way to stay dry in wet
climates, as well as being lightweight and easy to pack.
Mosquito nets are
another easy-to-pack, effective protection method against nasty elements.
You will probably want to start a fire, so include in your
survival kit tools that will help you do so. Waterproof matches and lighters
are easy and convenient, but if you happen to be in an outdoor setting for long
you run the risk of running out of matches or fuel for your lighter.
Do-it-yourself tools, such as fire steel, can help provide
you with warmth longer and with greater reliability.
Making sure you keep
your physical body healthy is essential for outdoor enthusiasts.
Any good survival kit will include first aid supplies meant
to treat a wide variety of health problems or accidents.
Bandages, sterile pads, gauze, and disinfectant are crucial
if you happen to experience a flesh wound while aspirin, antacids, and allergy
medication will help with internal afflictions.
Other first-aid items you will want to include are insect
repellent, lip-balm, sunscreen, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, and a
large supply of any prescription medication you take.
Food and water are essential safety kit items but are
unfortunately difficult to pack in bulk. It is recommended to have at least
three gallons of water – a three to six day supply – on hand for any outdoor
trip, unless you plan to filter your drinking water un-route.
Ready-to-eat or canned foods are great but take up a lot of
space in a kit. High-energy foods, such as chocolate, nuts, and dehydrated
fruits, are a better bet; they are more compact and are easier to ration,
making them last longer.
Multi-vitamins are
also a good idea; in an emergency situation you may not be getting all the
nutrients your body needs to stay healthy.
Finally, you will want to pack items that will help
search-and-rescue workers find you more easily. Lightweight LED flashlights and
lanterns are perfect. They have long battery lives and can be spotted from
quite far away.
Flares are attention-grabbing, yes, but are single-use and
carry the risk of starting an unwanted fire. A good compass can help you find
your way back to more familiar areas or, at the very least, get you comfortable
with the terrain you’re currently in.
Many outdoor supply
companies sell multipurpose tools that have miniature compasses built in.
These are very handy
and they reduce the number of items you have to carry in your survival kit.
There may be, of
course, other items you deem essential to your specific outdoor adventure.
While it is important
to be prepared, you don’t want to over pack and weigh yourself down
unnecessarily.
Survival kits should be helpful, not burdensome. Wherever
your enthusiasm lies – camping, hiking, hunting, fishing – a well-packed,
well-prepared survival kit will add peace of mind to your adventure, even if
you never have to use it.
Nigel at www.hunters-knives.co.uk has offered
you dear listener 10% on all his products simply by using the code PREP10.
Boiled British
Freshwater Fish Recipes
These can be cooked
using foraged greens or taken home and given the chief treatment.
Boiled Tench
Prepare the tench by
scaling, gutting, removing the gills then washing and patting dry.
Place in a large pan
then pour over just enough water to cover. Add 25g of salt per 1l of water
added then bring to a simmer, cover and cook gently for about 10 minutes, or
until the fish is cooked through.
Transfer the tench
to a warmed serving plate and garnish with parsley. Accompany with melted
butter.
Boiled Trout
This is a
traditional British recipe for a classic dish of boiled trout that's filleted
and served topped with a truffle, garlic, vinegar, lemon juice and olive oil.
Ingredients: 2 medium trout, cleaned and scaled 2 summer truffles 2 garlic
cloves 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil juice of 1 lemon
sea salt, to taste
Method
Bring a pan of
lightly-salted water to a boil. Add the trout and cook for about 20 minutes, or
until done through. Remove the fish then take off all the skin and fins.
Take the fish and
carefully remove the flesh as four fillets (discard all the bones). Arrange
these fillets on a serving plate. In the meantime, place the truffles and
garlic in a mortar and crush to a paste.
Add the vinegar and
lemon juice and mix thoroughly to combine. Place the oil in a pan, add the
truffle mixture and heat gently over a low flame (this should be just heated
through, do not allow the sauce to fry). Take off the heat and season to taste.
Pour the sauce over the fish and serve.
Feed the 5 thousand
A fish boil is a
fun, low-maintenance way to feed a large group of people -- and although it is
traditionally served outdoors, you can also bring the party inside. Whether
you're planning an outdoor picnic or a big family get-together, a fish boil
provides a nutritious, low-calorie meal for the entire family.
Step 1
Fill a large pot
about three-quarters of the way up with water. Bring the water to a boil,
either on your stovetop or outside on an open fire.
Step 2
Add the potatoes and
1 pound of salt for every 10 people, and then bring the liquid back up to a
boil. Cook for 8 minutes, then add the onions to the pot.
Step 3
Add 2 pounds of
peeled baby carrots, if desired. Wait until the water comes back to a boil, and
then cook another 2 minutes. Double these cooking times for every 10 people you
are serving.
Step 4
Add the whitefish and
cook for 14 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to test the centre of the
fish. If the fish reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the centre, it's done.
Step 5
Place one piece of
fish, three onions and two potatoes on each plate, then add a pat of butter and
spoon some of the broth over the fish. Serve with a wedge of lemon.
Catapult
Hunting and UK Law
It is completely
legal to shoot rabbits with a catapult with the intention to kill. So if you
are looking for dinner you can use a catapult, it is legal.
However you must:
Have permission from
the landowner to do so first!
Be proficient enough
to be able to kill, and must use suitable projectiles to ensure this! For
example steel ball bearings.
Intend to kill.
It is also important
to note: The Wild Mammals Protection Act 1996 which makes it an offence to
injure, maim, beat with sticks, torment or burn wild animals etc.
In other words not
to kill but merely to cause suffering. Therefore if you are seen shooting at a
rabbit time and time again without killing or stunning the rabbit only hitting
it, this could be seen as contrary to this act, and would need to answer for
it, possibly in court.
Therefore power,
accuracy, using adequate and suitable projectiles, and at a range whereby an
accurate shot will kill, is vital to be and be seen to be within the law.
Anyone hunt with a catapult?
When I was younger I
used to make my own catapults and hunt rats, squirrels and pheasants with steel
bearings.
Using the Survival
Slingshot I was amazed that I was back to grouping bearings in a 1.5 inch group
at 20 yards again in no time. Having not really used a catapult for many years
it just shows that practice really works and I feel like a hunt on the tree
rats around here.
SIMPLE CATAPULT PLINKING:
Use an old cardboard
box, full of crumpled papers such as computer paper, newspaper etc., and take a
couple of drawing pins, staples or tape etc. and fasten a target on the box -
and shoot away. At the end of the session, you can take out the papers and
shake them lightly, recovering your ammo - for your next volley.
Be sure to try
various distances, and various sizes of ammo, and varying weights - practice as
much as you can before actually going out hunting.
I usually like a bull’s
eye of about two inches square, with the target placed about 10 feet away to
start, and then extend my distance out to twenty five yards.
SIMPLE CATAPULT HUNTING:
Firstly, be ethical,
and practice at home with your catapult before venturing out in to the field to
hunt for rabbits, grouse, pheasants, pigeons, squirrels etc. We want good clean killing shots. As well, be
ethical, and take only shots at close range, learn how to hunt various animals,
so that you get very close to them before taking your shot.
Nearly any 'small
game' can be shot and killed effectively at close range with a catapult, but
rabbits & pheasants are likely the easiest because they often ‘stand still’
and will allow a catapult hunter to get within several feet allowing for an
excellent shot.
Often these animals
will hold tight for a second and even a third shot if need be. Your adrenaline will be surging - and you
will experience 'buck fever' so - beforehand - practice, practice, practice!
Get as close as you
can to your quarry, and by using the same
catapult draw technique that you use for target shooting, but with the
heavier hunting ammo, draw back, taking aim at the head of your target/quarry,
and let fly!
Pigeons, especially
in barns can also be great sport, in that one usually has an excellent shooting
opportunity, and you won't put holes in the roof, either. Most farm folk don't
like pigeons in their barn: pigeons are carriers of much disease!
Small glass marbles
(like you played marbles with, as a kid!) work well for this plinking, and is a
cheap source of ammo that is obtainable by all. I don't recommend using them
for hunting purposes.
So pop along to www.survivalslingshot.com and get yourself one of these silent killers
they are really great fun to use and will bring home the bacon time after time.
Eating Crows
and Some Recipes
I think most people
have a natural prejudice that has prevented most crow hunters from even
considering this bird as wild game.
My experience is
that the mere mention of dropping these birds on the menu brings a series of
comments from my mates as if I had just suggested stir frying up a batch of
common sewer rats.
And if you ever make
the mistake of sharing these thoughts with a non-hunter, be prepared for the
same reaction. This is a shame since, properly prepared, the members of the
Corvid family are as tasty as most other game birds and even tastier than some.
Besides, with crow
populations as high as they are, what an untapped resource we have at our
disposal.
Historically, crows,
as well as other non-songbird species have been common fare. Remember
"four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie"? Our revulsion seems to
centre on the fact that the crow and its close relatives are scavengers and
therefore unfit to eat.
Well, as far as pigs
and chickens are concerned, you just wouldn't believe what these supermarket
critters will stick in their mouths.
Seafood? You
honestly don't want to know what goes into shellfish before it ends up on that
expensive seafood platter. I suppose the same goes for lobsters. The list goes
on.
In short, it's
really just our cultural prejudice that limits our possibilities. You know,
maybe crow meat just needs some clever marketing terminology. Look what they
did for Sweet Breads and Escargot...
Field Preparation
It will come as
little surprise to anyone that even the biggest crow doesn't make much of a
meal. However, the fact that it is often possible to take large numbers at a
time can compensate for this.
Since a morning
shoot can easily net from 10 to 100 birds, you want to limit the amount of time
necessary to clean each bird. Put out of your head any idea of plucking a crow
like you would a goose or duck.
Besides the breast
meat, there just isn't enough edible meat on a crow to make it worthwhile.
Using the technique described below, you can extract the best meat of a crow
within a minute or two with very little mess.
Lay the crow on its
back in front of you with its head pointed to the right.
Take a finger and
locate where the breast bone meets the upper abdomen.
With a sharp knife,
make a cut across the crow (wing to wing) below the breast bone. Don't be
concerned about cutting too deep, no edible meat will be damaged with this cut.
Holding the bird’s
feet with your left hand, place 2 or 3 fingers under the skin where the cut was
made and pull in opposite directions. The skinless breast meat should now be
exposed.
Take the knife again
and separate each breast half away from the bone starting in the middle and
working outward. You should end up with 2 lime sized pieces of crow breast.
Discard the remains properly.
The meat can now be
frozen, marinated or freshly prepared.
Recipes
Below are some
recipes. Feel free to try these or to experiment with your own creation. There
is no reason why any recipe for dove, quail or grouse to be found in a wild
game cookbook would not work just as well.
Then you can decide
whether to tell your guests what went into the recipe before or after they have
finished. Bon Appetite!!
Pre-Cooking Preparation
Preparation
You can use this
method with crows, coots, diver ducks and just about any fowl that may have a
strong flavour.
Use as many breasts
as you decide to grill and soak them from 2 hours to overnight in salt water
then thoroughly rinse and dry the breasts.
Then use your
favourite brand of Italian dressing and put enough to coat the bottom of a
container you can put a lid on and put a layer of breasts, a layer of dressing,
and keep layering till all the breasts are in the container. Finally, top off with
dressing and put in fridge overnight. The next day they will be tender and
tasty.
Summer Crow Layers
Ingredients
16 pieces of crow
breast meat (no bones) (8 crows)
16 pieces of green
pepper
16 cherry tomatoes
8 button mushrooms
8 ears of sweet corn
1 1/2 cups of
Teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup melted
butter
8 kabob skewers
Preparation
Cut each piece of
crow in half and place in a covered bowl with the Teriyaki sauce over night.
Clean and cut each ear of corn into 3 pieces. Cook in boiling salt water for 10
minutes.
Alternately put corn
(3 pieces), green peppers (3 pieces) and cherry tomatoes (3) along with 4
pieces of crow meat on each skewer. Use 1 mushroom to top each skewer. Brush
with melted butter and place on preheated grill for about 4 minutes. Flip, butter
again and place back on grill for another 4 minutes. Repeat one last time for a
total of 12 minutes or until they appear done. Serves four adults.
Country "C" Medallions
Ingredients
24 pieces of crow
breast meat (no bones) (12 crows)
2 medium onions (chopped)
6 tblsp of oil
5 slices of bacon
(chopped)
1 big or 2 small
turnips (peeled & chopped)
1/3 of celery root
(peeled & chopped) - note: substitute with celery
3 tblsp wet mustard
1 tblsp lemon juice
Salt, pepper to
taste
Dash of paprika
2 bay leaves
2 juniper berries -
note: substitute with allspice
1 tblsp Majorjam
(crushed)
1 heaping tblsp of
mayonnaise
Water
Preparation
Sauté onions and
bacon in oil until golden. Add meat, spices and sauté some more. Add vegetables
and the rest of the ingredients except mayonnaise. Add enough water to keep the
meat almost covered. Cook in a slow cooker on medium
In about 3 hours you
will see that the meat is soft enough to cut with a fork. Take the meat out and
place on heated platter or dish to keep warm. Remove the bay leaf and put all
the gravy (about 2 cups) in a blender and blend. When thoroughly blended, add
mayonnaise and blend shortly.
Add gravy to meat
and serve over rice with a winter salad. Serves four adults.
Pan Fried Crow
Ingredients
2 eggs
seasoned bread
crumbs or flour
oil or bacon grease
Preparation
Remove breast meat
from as many crows as desired. Beat with meat mallet (for tenderizing). Dip the
pieces in beaten egg and then in bread crumbs or flour. Fry in oil in hot
skillet. Leave inside a tad pink if you like that sort of thing.
Bug-Out Checklist
What exactly do you need to take with you if you need to leave home in a
rush? Perhaps a disaster is coming your way and you need to get out before it
hits, or something has already happened and the world is falling apart around
you and you need to get to somewhere safer.
What would you take with you?
Most people don’t even know where to start. So here is a checklist of the
things you will you need to bring if you need to get out quickly:
Survival Kit/
Bug-Out Bag
You basically need the essentials to survive.
Water - Water storage as well as filters.
Food - Ideally enough to last you for at least 3-5 days.
Clothes - Staying warm is a top priority.
Shelter - You need sleep, without it you can’t think or act as well.
First-Aid - Just the basics to help patch up injuries.
Medicines - Prescription and over the counter.
Weapons - Lethal and non-lethal weapons for protection and hunting.
Others - General supplies for cooking, fire making, lighting, hunting/fishing,
trapping etc.
A Survival Knife - The most important and useful tool that you can have.
Important
Documents
Make sure you have all of the paperwork you may need for you and your
family.
Identification
Insurance Information
Legal Documents/deeds
Any Important Contacts
Medical Records and Information
Family & Pet Information
Copies! - Have a backup in a safe place in case anything happens to the
originals.
Weapons
Guns / Ammo
Non-Lethal Protection like pepper spray, tazers, stun guns, etc.
Walkie Talkies (mobile phone service may go down)
Wind-up/solar Radio / Wind-up/solar torch
Camera - It might be a good idea to document some of what is going on to
try to share with the outside world.
Laptop - Keep up to date on news and what is happening. Assuming you can
get internet service.
Mobile Phone - Again, don’t count on this for communication as service
either goes down or is totally overwhelmed by volume in a severe crisis.
Food
You should have at least 3 days of food in your Bug-Out Bag.
Load up whatever extra food you can carry.
Hopefully you have stored food in your house so it is easily accessible.
Have a plan for when your food runs out (Hunting, fishing, growing.)
Water
Water Storage Containers
Water Filters
Bring as much water as you can carry. This is more important than food.
Make sure your water containers are easy to carry with you and can be
easily refilled.
Water filters should work easily and provide good, clean water.
DIY Survival Candles
Candles are an easy-to-use source of emergency lighting and a little bit
of heat. I'm shocked to see some of the prices that are charged for long
burning candles sold for survival or emergency preparedness - if you want to
buy a dozen or so candles, the cost really starts to add up.
Don’t worry! You can make your own survival candles at home very cheaply,
using high-quality, long burning soy wax. It's an easy project - the materials
are easy to buy and you won't need any specialized tools.
The materials
you will need are:
Soy wax flakes. These are commonly used in making scented candles and are
sold in craft stores or Amazon and Ebay. I bought a 5 pound bag from Amazon for
12.79 delivered.
You can use other wax, but soy is affordable, typically has a longer burn
time than other waxes and has some other beneficial qualities (all-natural,
renewable, etc.).
I purchased a dozen 8 ounce jars from my local pound shop for £2.40. If
you have jars around the house, no need to buy 'them.
You can use jars from jams, sauces and so on for candles in the past.
You can find wicks on Amazon, eBay and at your craft stores. You'll want
your wicks to be a bit longer than your candle holder is tall. I found 100 nine
inch wicks on eBay for About £5 total.
The tools you
will need are:
Scissors: For cutting the wicks to size
Double Boiler: For melting the wax. I don't have an actual double boiler,
so I just get a large pot, fill it about 1/3 to 1/2 of the way with water, and
then nest a slightly smaller pot inside.
A Pouring Device: I use a pyrex measuring cup.
Protective Gloves: We'll be using boiling water and hot wax, so you want
to keep your hands safe.
The steps are
simple.
First, you'll want to get your wicks ready. If your wicks are way too
long for your container, you'll want to trim them down to approximate size. I
had 9" wicks here. Put your wicks in the jars. Don't worry if they're not
centred - we'll fix that after we pour the wax.
Now it's
melting' time!
Carefully transfer the melted wax into your pouring container. Then, pour
away! Don't worry about the container - soy wax is all natural, non-toxic and
cleans up fairly easily. Beware if you have a soy allergy, though.
Don't fill the jar up the whole way - leave some room between the wax and
the top of the container. You'll want to centre the wicks at this point. Then,
take a break and let the wax cool and harden up.
Almost done!
Last step. After the wax has cooled, trim the wicks as needed--you want
the wick to be about 1/4" above the wax. Then, screw the lids on and
you're ready for storage!
While some advertise 70+ hours of burn time for 8 ounce candles like
this, they're more in the ballpark of 40 to 50 hours, and you'll get the most
life out of them if you burn the candles four hours at a time.
Since you would only use the candle for about 4 hours every evening, a
single candle should last for around 10 days of regular use.
Not bad! You can of course use different sized jars--bigger for longer
burn time, or multiple wicks for more light.
Including the purchase of new jars, my cost per candle is around £80p.
With recycled jars, it's around 35 to 40p.
These aren't crap materials, either--these are the same quality of
materials used for high-end aromatherapy candles that sell for £12 each.
Another plus - the combination of soy wax's lower melting point and the
protective glass jar make this a safer source of light when compared to other
candles, oil lanterns and so on.
One modification that I plan to make it to include a booklet of matches
inside of each jar – it’s cheap and makes sure you've got a way to light the
candle if it's pulled out of storage during a power outage, etc.
The Best Meal
of the Day
Breakfast is
considered the most important meal of the day.
This is especially
true for backpackers, survivalists and preppers on exercise. A healthy
breakfast is responsible for replacing the glucose stores depleted each night
and for providing the body with the nutrients it needs for jump-starting the
day.
The consequences of
skipping breakfast -- a drop in blood sugar levels, fatigue, poor
concentration, irritability and lethargy -- can manifest themselves throughout
the day, making hiking a miserable experience.
Energy Requirements
Backpackers commonly
burn anywhere from 3,000 and 6,000 calories a day and have to consume between 2
and 3 lbs. of energy-dense food each day to meet their energy requirements.
Breakfasts are
typically a backpacker's biggest meal, accounting for 25 per cent of the day's
required calories and nutrients.
A healthy breakfast
that contains a balanced ratio of protein, fats and complex carbohydrates can
provide a backpacker with the energy needed for a successful hike without the
blood sugar crash that accompanies the consumption of simple sugars.
Along with complex
carbohydrates, fats are the preferred fuel for muscles. Calorie- and
nutrient-dense, fats are typically a lightweight, trail-friendly food that
provides the body with a reliable source for long-term energy.
Fats are typically
found in oils, nuts, avocados, fish, meats, butter and cheese. Roughly 35 to 40
per cent of the calories in a backpacker's breakfast should come from fat.
Fats are especially
important for backpackers on long, strenuous treks or those in colder climates.
Complex Carbohydrates
Complex
carbohydrates refer to the starches found in the whole grains, cereals, fruits
and vegetables that contain glucose. As the body's main source of energy,
glucose provides an immediate supply of energy that replenishes glucose stores
and jump-starts the body.
An important
component of a backpacker's diet, roughly 50 per cent of a breakfast's calories
should come from complex carbohydrates. As the brain's sole source of energy,
glucose is also important for maintaining mental focus and boosting mood.
When combined with
fibre, complex carbohydrates can help stabilize the body's blood glucose levels
and prevent fatigue and hypoglycaemia during a morning hike.
Protein
While complex
carbohydrates provide the body with an immediate source of energy, protein
provides the body with longer-lasting energy stores. Since proteins take longer
to digest then carbohydrates, they can stop hunger throughout the morning and
provide the body with a sustained energy source.
However, since
proteins are not as energy-dense as fats or carbohydrates, they should only
make up 10 to 15 per cent of a trail breakfast.
Protein sources like
dried eggs, peanut butter, fish, beans, nut, legumes, whole grains and meats
are healthy, trail-friendly protein choices.
Weight and Bulk
It is not uncommon
for the majority of a pack's weight and bulk to be food. However, unlike fresh
ingredients, dehydrated, freeze-dried and powdered foods do not spoil and can
cut down on weight and bulk.
When planning a
trail breakfast, it is important to consider weight, preparation and energy
requirements.
Granola and oatmeal
with nuts, seeds or dried fruit are common trail-friendly breakfasts since they
are calorie-and nutrient-dense, easy to pack, and quick to cook.
Breakfast and cereal
bars can also be a good source of energy, unless they are contain large amounts
of refined carbohydrates.
Common Prepping
Mistakes
With the abundance
of bad info out there, it’s easy for new preppers to make a lot of mistakes.
I, myself, when I
was a new prepper made many mistakes and I’m sure I’ll make more, but that’s
part of the learning process.
To help you speed up
this process, here are some common prepping mistakes you’ll want to avoid:
Not having a
survival library. Books are less common these days because we do so much
reading on the Internet and Kindles. But if the power goes out, having a good
collection of survival books could save your life.
They’ll give you
something to read when you’re bored, and will have important instructions on
things like purifying water, building fires, and medical care.
While you want to
learn as much of this info as you can ahead of time, no one can know
everything, and there are bound to be times when a survival library will come
in handy.
Focusing on supplies
instead of skills. Of course, just because you have all the best books on
survival doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bother to learn survival skills. It’s
possible your books will be destroyed or you won’t be able to get to them.
The same rule
applies to your survival food and gear. What if you’re at work when your home
is destroyed by an explosion, earthquake or some other disastrous event? Would
you still have the skills to survive, or are you completely dependent on your
food and gear?
Not having enough
water preps. I cannot overemphasize the importance of water. There are many
survivalists who have six months of food and only two weeks of water on hand.
Considering that you
can survive without food about ten times as long as you can survive without
water, you’d be better off with two weeks of food and six months of water.
Don’t do that either
by the way, but at least make sure your water will last as long as your food.
If you don’t have enough room for that much, there are many ways to collect and
purify water.
Not having enough
variety in food supplies. Too many new preppers buy nothing but rice, beans,
flour, salt and sugar. If that’s all you have to eat after a disaster, you’re
going to be miserable.
Your body will have
trouble adjusting to the new bare-bones diet and you’ll suffer from food
fatigue, where your survival food won’t be appetizing even when you’re very
hungry.
Make sure you buy
the ingredients for a variety of possible meals so you’ll feel satisfied every
time you eat.
This leads to my next point…
Not eating what you
store. This was the first mistake I made when I started stocking up on food. I
bought all kinds of food, sealed it up, put it in the cupboard, and forgot
about it.
Inevitably, some of
my food went bad and I had to throw it out. It’s important you store what you
eat and eat what you store.
I’m a mate of
rotate, in other words rotate your food and water supplies
If you’re not sure
how to cook meals from the basic ingredients, I’d recommend getting some cookbooks
and a guide like Emergency Food Storage & Survival Handbook 10 Common
Prepping Mistakes which has a lot of great recipes.
Not having enough
vitamins. Personally, I think everyone should be taking multivitamins since
most modern diets don’t provide the nutrition we need, but this will be even
more important in a survival situation.
The stress of having
your life turned upside down, constant threats to you and your family, and
manual labour will take a lot of energy and tax your immune system. Vitamins
will help keep you strong and healthy, especially Vitamin C.
While the last few
points have been about food, don’t forget all your other survival needs. When a
lot of people think of prepping, the first things they think about are food and
water and they proceed to stock up on them while neglecting healthy and beauty
supplies, first aid kids, bug out bags, cooking implements, clothes, weapons
and other important items.
While food should be your first priority, don’t forget
your other priorities.
Relying only on an
arsenal. At the other end the spectrum, there are some preppers who focus all
their attention on guns and ammo. The reasoning is that not only will they be
able to protect themselves, they’ll be able to hunt their food and trade ammo
for other supplies.
This is unrealistic,
especially if you’re in or near a city. The little bit of wildlife in your area
will be picked clean by others, and most people won’t be interested in your
ammo as they, like you, will be looking to trade for food and other vital
supplies. Sure, have some weapons for self-defence, but don’t go overboard.
As much as we all
love our pets, for some reason it’s easy to forget that they need preps,
too.
Animals require more than just food and water.
Planning on bugging
out. Although having a bug out bag and a vehicle survival kit is important,
unless you have advance warning of a disaster it will be very difficult to get
from your home to your bug out location.
The streets will be
congested, roads and entire areas could be inaccessible, and fuel could become
unavailable.
That’s why I think it’s so important to be ready to
Bug-in.
BREAK
You are listening to the UK preppers Radio network on
KPRNDB-UK I’m your host Tom Linden
Surviving in
the Woods
Ever been on a hike
admiring the wild flowers, gazing up at the tips of the trees--and suddenly
found yourself completely alone and lost?
No of course you
have not, but what if? What would happen to you if you couldn't find your way
back to safety? While being lost in the woods can be a frightening experience,
surviving alone in the wild is generally a matter of common sense, patience,
and wisely using the gifts that nature provides.
To survive in the woods, you must use these guidelines
and tips.
Plan ahead. Don't
just trek off into the wilderness; do some research first. There are a lot of
resources regarding survival, both online and in libraries, but warning: many
of the techniques used are sometimes wrong or incomplete.
Knowledge of the
local plants and animals can save your life! If you need any medication or
injections, bring them along – even if you don’t plan to be gone for long enough
to need them.
Every time you go
into the wilderness, make sure someone knows where you are going and how long
you intend to be gone. That way someone will realize that you are missing,
quickly alert rescuers, and be able to tell them where to start looking for you
(much like a “flight plan,” which pilots always file before leaving).
Similarly, don't
forget to call the person(s) you notified to tell them when you are back. Like
the boy who cried wolf, a false alarm wastes rescue resources and may be.
Bring survival gear.
Basic survival tools such as a knife, a fire steel (metal match), some matches
(in a waterproof canister), some cord (550 paracord is best), a Whistle, a
space blanket, a signalling mirror, water purifying tablets, a compass, etc. this can mean the difference between life and
death.
However if you
decide to bring something like a knife make sure you have permission and don't
give people the wrong impression. Even if you are only out on a day hike, be
sure to bring the essentials.
Having all this
equipment is nothing if you cannot use it properly. Make sure to practice many
times in a safe environment before venturing into the wilderness, somewhere
like your back garden also, know how to catch and cook fish if the need arises.
Forget about
catching game; this is a painstakingly slow, energy-consuming process that will
divert your attention from your real goal, trying to get home.
Learn how to use a
compass. If you have a map and can spot a few prominent landscapes, you can
actually use the compass to triangulate your position and, from there, figure
out where you need to go.
When choosing a
space blanket (a light, thin sheet of extremely reflective Mylar), spend a
little extra to buy a larger, more durable model.
A space blanket can
be used to block wind and water, wrapped around the body prevent and counteract
hypothermia, or even placed behind you to reflect a fire’s heat onto your back,
but none of this is useful if the blanket is too small or tears the moment you
unwrap it.
Bring a means of
communication. A mobile phone with spare battery or a portable CB radio can be
your best, quickest means of rescue if you are truly lost or injured.
A mobile signal may
only be obtainable from a hill or tree (be safe if contemplating a climb) but
is better than nothing.
Don't panic if
you’re lost. Panic is more dangerous than almost anything else, because it
interferes with the operation of your single best, most useful and versatile
survival tool: your mind.
The moment you
realize that you are lost, before you do anything else, stop. Take a deep
breath and stay calm. Even if you're hanging from a rope halfway down a
mountainside with a broken leg, remind yourself that people have survived
exactly this situation.
Stand still and look
around carefully! Wherever you are will become your "point zero."
Find a way to mark it using a spare piece of clothing, a pile of rocks, a sheet
of paper, or anything else easily visible from a distance.
Stay in one place.
This not only increases your chances of being found, but also reduces the
energy your body expends and the amount of water and food you will need. Hunker
down and stay put.
Chances are that
someone will be looking for you, especially if you let someone know your plans
Build a good-sized
fire with sufficient coals to stay hot for many hours, and make sure that you
have plenty of extra dry wood.
Start the fire
before you think you need it, even if the weather is warm; fires are easier to
make under stress less conditions than in a panic as the sun sets – to say
nothing of the fact that having a fire nearby will give you a sense of comfort
and safety as you get your bearings.
A good rule of thumb
is to gather wood until you think you have enough to last the night, then
gather three more piles of the same size, after which you might have enough to
get through the night.
In the wilderness,
you should have access to dry wood in the understory of the forest. You can
also use bark or dried dung.
If you build a fire
that is hot enough, you can also burn green wood, brush, or tree boughs to make
a signalling fire (one that makes a lot of smoke).
The best wood for
maintaining a fire is dead wood that you pull off a standing tree. Regardless
of what type of woods you are in, there will certainly be some dry wood available.
Remember that a
small fire is easier to keep burning than a big fire, though, because it
requires less fuel. Once you have sufficient embers, keep the fire to a
manageable size so you don't spend too much time looking for fuel.
Don't build a fire in
an area where it is unsafe to do so. Your fire should be well away from
flammable trees and brush, preferably in a clearing. Be careful with your fire.
While you want to feed it, you shouldn't overdo it.
Consider the weather
and other factors and remember, a forest fire is a lot harder to survive than
just being lost!
Signal your location
to maximize the odds that someone finds you. Make noise by whistling, shouting,
singing, or banging rocks together. If you can, mark your location in such a
way that it's visible from the air.
If you're in a
mountain meadow, make three piles of dark leaves or branches in a triangle. In
sandy areas, make a large triangle in the sand. In a forest, you might want to
prepare three small fires ready to ignite at a moment's notice, with heaps of
wet leaves nearby in order to make smoke.
Three of anything in
the wilderness is a standard distress signal. The space blanket can also be
used as a signalling device.
Start scouting your
area, carefully keeping track of your location. In your immediate area, make
sure you look around carefully for anything useful. You could find things
someone left there before, be it a tin can or small lighter, it can be helpful
significantly.
Be sure you can
always find your way back to your "point zero" as you search for
water, shelter, or your way home.
Find a good source
of water. In a survival situation, you can last up to three days without water,
but by the end of the second day you're not going to be in very good shape;
find water before then.
The best source of
water is a spring, but the chances of finding one are slim.
A running stream is
your next best bet; the movement of the water reduces sediment. Be advised that
drinking water from streams can lead to some sicknesses, but when you're in a
life-or-death situation, the risk of illness is a secondary consideration and
anything you may get can be treated when you return.
Purify your water. A
crude method of water purification is to take your handy pot and heat the
water. For this to effectively kill bacteria, it must be at a rolling boil for
at least a minute.
You can also put
(clear) water in a clear plastic bottle and set it in the sun for six hours to
kill most of the organisms.
However, if the
water is so full of sediment that the sun can’t penetrate it, this method will
not work. If you have any, add a pinch of salt to the water to try to bring the
sediment to the bottom.
Find or create
shelter. Without adequate shelter, you will be fully exposed to the elements
and will risk hypothermia or heatstroke, depending on the weather.
If you are not
properly dressed for the conditions, finding shelter is all the more important.
Luckily, the woods are filled with tools and resources to make both shelters
and fires (for warmth, safety, and signalling purposes).
Here are some things you can use:
Look for a fallen or
leaning tree. You can build an A-frame shelter by stacking branches along both
side a fallen tree, then over the branches with brush, palm fronds, leaves, or
other plants.
Use brush or green
branches (boughs) from trees to repel water, block wind, keep out snow, or
create shade.
Use a tarp to seal
yourself in from the elements.
The Bug out
Week end is coming.
Community of UK
Preppers on FB are having a (Bug out weekend)
So why not join them on the 2nd to the 4th may 2015 to share and learn ideas with other like-minded people
So why not join them on the 2nd to the 4th may 2015 to share and learn ideas with other like-minded people
Location
The location on the East coast of Humberside
Available Spaces
All spaces are designated specific areas of the Bug Out Weekend location that are suitable for that type of bugging out system as the location is a wild managed area and has a range of different types of ground.
All the places listed here are for the tree covered areas of the location.
1. Hammocks: ---------------------15 spaces.
2. Tarps and tents----------------10 Places
3. 4x4 and off road vehicles----20 places.
4. Campervans and trailers----15 places
There is a large open ground area of the location for the Bug Out Weekend to use whatever system you choose, but I will be limiting these spaces to 40 spaces.
Admission Fee
£20.00 for adult over 16 years
£10.00 for child under 16 years
Free for child under 10 years
Traders and promoters are welcome for no extra cost to the entrance fee
Anyone who says they are going to the event must pay a non-refundable £5.00 deposit per person to secure their place.
How to make deposit payment.
Only if you wish to attend say you are going and I will message you and give you the Paypal address with a payment reference number.
Once payment has been made i will send you your payment receipt reference number. This number is to be presented on entry to the Bug out Weekend where the deposit will be deducted from the admission cost.
Arrangements
Please arrange any train Tickets to Scunthorpe as soon as possible (ASAP) as this will save you money and could be cheaper than your own car.
We can arrange to pick you up from Scunthorpe Train Station and drop you back off for a fee of £3.00. Please let me know as soon as possible if you require this service.
Facilities
There will be a toilet facility in place.
There will be ranges for Archery, Crossbow, Air rifle, live round rifles and shotgun too.
There will be a solar Shower available with hot water available if needed..
There will be a Marquee set up in case of any wet weather so it won't stop people who want to do a bit of socialising
There will be a BBQ for anyone who wants to have a good old meat feast at the cost of £5.00 per head
UK Firearms Licensing Act
For anyone who wishes to bring along a gun or rifle that requires to be licensed under the UK Firearms licensing act 1968.
It is every owner’s responsibility to ensure they are covered under the Uk Firearms licensing act and proof of cover for any such firearms must be shown before you are allowed entry to the Bug out Weekend meeting.
The organisers or associates will not be held responsible for any transportation of unlicensed Firearms to or from the Bug Out Weekend.
See the link below
https://www.gov.uk/firearms-licensing-police-guidance
Ranges
Strict safety rules and timing guidelines at the range points must be followed at all times.
Disclaimer
All guidelines and disclaimers will be presented on entry to the Bug Out Weekend meeting by security staff.
All guidelines and disclaimers must be read and understood before entry to the Bug out Weekend.
The location on the East coast of Humberside
Available Spaces
All spaces are designated specific areas of the Bug Out Weekend location that are suitable for that type of bugging out system as the location is a wild managed area and has a range of different types of ground.
All the places listed here are for the tree covered areas of the location.
1. Hammocks: ---------------------15 spaces.
2. Tarps and tents----------------10 Places
3. 4x4 and off road vehicles----20 places.
4. Campervans and trailers----15 places
There is a large open ground area of the location for the Bug Out Weekend to use whatever system you choose, but I will be limiting these spaces to 40 spaces.
Admission Fee
£20.00 for adult over 16 years
£10.00 for child under 16 years
Free for child under 10 years
Traders and promoters are welcome for no extra cost to the entrance fee
Anyone who says they are going to the event must pay a non-refundable £5.00 deposit per person to secure their place.
How to make deposit payment.
Only if you wish to attend say you are going and I will message you and give you the Paypal address with a payment reference number.
Once payment has been made i will send you your payment receipt reference number. This number is to be presented on entry to the Bug out Weekend where the deposit will be deducted from the admission cost.
Arrangements
Please arrange any train Tickets to Scunthorpe as soon as possible (ASAP) as this will save you money and could be cheaper than your own car.
We can arrange to pick you up from Scunthorpe Train Station and drop you back off for a fee of £3.00. Please let me know as soon as possible if you require this service.
Facilities
There will be a toilet facility in place.
There will be ranges for Archery, Crossbow, Air rifle, live round rifles and shotgun too.
There will be a solar Shower available with hot water available if needed..
There will be a Marquee set up in case of any wet weather so it won't stop people who want to do a bit of socialising
There will be a BBQ for anyone who wants to have a good old meat feast at the cost of £5.00 per head
UK Firearms Licensing Act
For anyone who wishes to bring along a gun or rifle that requires to be licensed under the UK Firearms licensing act 1968.
It is every owner’s responsibility to ensure they are covered under the Uk Firearms licensing act and proof of cover for any such firearms must be shown before you are allowed entry to the Bug out Weekend meeting.
The organisers or associates will not be held responsible for any transportation of unlicensed Firearms to or from the Bug Out Weekend.
See the link below
https://www.gov.uk/firearms-licensing-police-guidance
Ranges
Strict safety rules and timing guidelines at the range points must be followed at all times.
Disclaimer
All guidelines and disclaimers will be presented on entry to the Bug Out Weekend meeting by security staff.
All guidelines and disclaimers must be read and understood before entry to the Bug out Weekend.
