Strategies for Conserving Water in an Emergency

Water is an essential resource that we often take for granted. However, during emergencies such as natural disasters or other unforeseen circumstances, a reliable water supply may become scarce. In these challenging situations, it becomes crucial to conserve water. I’d like to discuss effective strategies for conserving water in an emergency.

1. Prioritize Water Usage

In emergency situations, it’s essential to prioritize water usage. Allocate water for drinking and cooking, while minimizing usage for non-essential activities such as watering plants or cleaning. When you establish priorities for the water, you can ensure that the available water resources are used most effectively.

A good example is when washing your clothes. We’ve found that with the latest clothes washers, we can use a shorter cycle and less water and still achieve clean clothes. When things get really tough, you may have to learn to flush the toilets less often.

There’s an old saying, “If it’s yellow, let it mellow; if it’s brown, flush it down.” That may seem to be an extreme measure, but it may need to be your family’s motto at some point.

There are also more efficient toilet tank flushing units that use a liter of water rather than a gallon or more. Next time you replace your toilet, consider your options.

2. Store Water in Advance

One of the most effective ways to prepare for emergency situations is by storing an adequate supply of water in advance. The recommended amount is one gallon per person per day for at least three days.

Store water in clean, airtight containers away from direct sunlight to prevent bacterial growth. Remember to regularly rotate and replace stored water to maintain its freshness. Water Storage: How Much Do You Really Need?

I’ve been recommending to my readers for a long time that they consume four gallons of water per person per day. We not only need to stay properly hydrated, but also have access to water for cooking, doing minimal laundry, and performing limited personal hygiene tasks.

When it comes to hydration, consider keeping a larger container of water in the refrigerator for drinking purposes rather than running the kitchen tap and waiting for the water to get cold enough to drink.

3. Limit Non-Essential Water Usage

During an emergency, it’s crucial to minimize non-essential water usage. Take shorter showers and turn off the faucets in your sink or bathroom wash bowl while brushing your teeth or shaving. Use kitchen-efficient appliances and fixtures to reduce water consumption. Repair any leaks and slow drips promptly to prevent unnecessary water wastage. How to Prepare for a Drought

Faucets that have aerators installed tend to use less water. Also, when available water is a concern, consider throwing more items in the trash rather than using your garbage disposal and related water to dispose of them.

We all like clean cars, but we’ll need to cut back on the frequency of those driveway-based car washes. We can also use a broom to clear debris from sidewalks, patios, porches, or driveways, rather than using a hose.

When washing cars at home, don’t leave the hose running full-time. Have a hose with an effective shut-off nozzle so the water is only running when actually needed to rinse off the dirt or soap suds. Be sure to use less water than you would at a local commercial car wash.

4. Reuse Water

In emergency situations, every drop counts. Consider reusing water whenever possible. For example, collect and reuse water from washing dishes, laundry, or bathing to flush toilets or water-specific plants. Graywater systems can be employed to treat and reuse water for various purposes, reducing the strain on existing water supplies. Creative Water Storage Solutions for Emergencies 

When it comes to keeping your garden thriving, consider various irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation. Many communities are suggesting zero-scape landscaping where more small rocks take the place of lawns and flower garden beds.

If you feel strongly that you need the green stuff to stay, water less often or for shorter periods. Additionally, consider watering sections with sprinkler systems twice for shorter periods, allowing the water to soak in, which reduces overall water usage since there is less runoff.

You are also wise to use mulch in your gardens to help maintain a higher level of soil moisture. Using food waste materials in your compost pile can help reduce kitchen disposal and also minimize garden chemical usage.

5. Harvest Rainwater

Rainwater harvesting is an excellent method to supplement your water supply during emergencies. Set up rain barrels or collection systems to capture rainwater from roofs and gutters. This harvested water can be used for various non-potable purposes such as gardening or cleaning. How to Use Rainwater at Home

6. Efficient Cooking and Cleaning

During emergencies, efficient cooking and cleaning techniques can significantly reduce water usage. Opt for one-pot meals or use a pressure cooker to minimize water consumption during cooking.

When washing dishes, fill a basin with clean, clear water for rinsing instead of running the tap continuously. Use biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaning products to minimize environmental impact. 25 Smart Ways To Save Money Cooking

It has been shown that modern dishwashers actually use less water than most families use when washing dishes by hand. Conduct research to discover the most effective way to utilize your dishwasher’s features.

7. Hygiene Practices

Maintaining personal hygiene is crucial, even in emergency situations. However, it’s essential to conserve water while practicing good hygiene. Consider using wet wipes or hand sanitizers when water is limited.

When bathing, use a damp cloth or sponge bath instead of a full shower. These small adjustments can lead to substantial water savings. You may consider washing your hair less often, as it requires a significant amount of water to wash and rinse.

8. Community Cooperation

During emergencies, communities can come together to maximize water conservation efforts. Collaborate with neighbors to share resources, such as water storage containers or rainwater harvesting systems. Implement community-wide water-saving initiatives, such as group laundry or communal bathing facilities, to optimize water usage.

What You Need In A Community To Survive: Share these water conservation tips with your neighbors and extended family members, since many may be unfamiliar with the steps that should be taken.

Why is conserving water in an emergency important?

Water is a vital resource for survival, and during an emergency situation, such as a natural disaster or water shortage, the availability of clean water may be limited. Conserving water helps ensure that everyone has access to the necessary amount for drinking, cooking, and sanitation purposes.

How much water should I have stored for emergencies?

It is recommended to have at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. This includes water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes. It’s also essential to store additional water for pets and any medical needs.

Are there any alternative sources of water during an emergency?

Yes, there are alternative sources of water during an emergency. These can include rainwater, water from natural bodies like lakes or rivers (if deemed safe), and melted ice cubes from the freezer. However, it is crucial to purify or treat these sources before using them for drinking or cooking.

How long can stored water be kept before it needs to be replaced?

Stored water should be replaced every six months for optimal freshness and quality. Mark your containers with the date of storage to keep track of when they need to be rotated. I recommend a product called Water Preserver, which, when used as directed, can keep your stored water safe for up to five years.

How can I conserve water during an emergency?

1. Limit shower time and use a bucket to collect water while it warms up.
2. Fix any leaks immediately.
3. Only run the dishwasher or washing machine with full loads.
4. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean outdoor areas.
5. Collect rainwater in containers for non-potable uses, such as flushing toilets or watering plants.
6. Reuse water whenever possible, such as using leftover cooking water for plants.

More Tips

• How To Store Water: Pros and Cons
• Water: Do You Have Enough Stored?
• Creative Water Storage Solutions for Emergencies 

Final Word

Conserving water in an emergency is a critical aspect of disaster preparedness and response. Feel free to use the strategies mentioned above to help determine the proper use of limited water resources. If you have additional ideas I can share with my readers, please add them in the comments section below. May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Water Bottles With Hand Truck Depositphotos_184996666_S by IgorVetushko, Water Bottles Being Delivered Depositphotos_184997244_S by IgorVetushko

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Build a DIY Canned Food Storage Rack

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

If you have a bunch of canned foods, you already know what a hassle they can be to store. Cans that are theoretically stackable end up sliding all over the place. And when you buy new cans that you need to put in the back, good luck sliding everything forward without causing an avalanche.

That’s exactly why you need to check out this DIY canned food storage. It’s incredibly space-efficient, cheap to build, and doesn’t require any fancy tools. With just a few materials and some basic woodworking skills, you can turn unused wall space into a vertical can dispenser.

This particular dispenser comes from the Youtuber, DIY Man. It only takes about four inches of wall depth, it’s sturdy enough to hold lots of weight, and it even accommodates smaller cans thanks to a custom gap at the bottom.

Whether you’re prepping for emergencies or just trying to make your kitchen more functional, this canned food storage rack is the perfect weekend project. You can learn how to make it by watching the video below, but I also typed up the instructions for those who prefer to read.

Materials Needed

• 1 pc 2×4 at 4 ft
• 1 pc 1×2 at 4 ft
• 1 pc 4×4 sheet of ½” plywood

Tools Recommended

• Drill/impact gun
• 18-gauge brad nailer
• Table saw
• Circular saw
• Miter saw
• Sander
• Wood glue
• Wood filler
• Paint (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cut the Plywood Frame

1. Cut four 3″ wide strips of ½” plywood, each 24″ long.
2. Cut two 3.5″ wide strips at 25″ long, and two at 26″ long.
3. Lightly sand all boards before assembly.

Step 2: Assemble the Frame

1. Attach the 26″ boards flush to the top and bottom of the 25″ boards using wood glue and finishing nails.
2. Flip the frame over and install the 3″ x 24″ boards across the middle with 5″ gaps between them, except the bottom one, which has a 4″ gap for smaller cans.
3. Ensure the tops of these shelves are flush with the top edge of the outer frame.

Step 3: Add the Backing

1. Cut a back panel from ½” plywood measuring 26″ x 24″.
2. Mark the center of each shelf to avoid missing with the nail gun.
3. Attach the backing with wood glue and nails into the center of each board.

Step 4: Create and Attach the Angled Base

1. Set your table saw blade to ¾” from the fence at a 30° angle.
2. Cut a 2×4 at this setting and then chop it into four 5″ pieces and one 4″ piece.
3. Attach these angled pieces to the bottom with glue and nails.

Step 5: Build the Bottom Lip

1. Reset the table saw blade to 1″ from the fence at 30°.
2. Cut a 1×2 laid flat on its side, then cut it to 27″ long.
3. Attach it to the bottom front edge of the rack.

Step 6: Install Internal Supports

• Cut six more pieces of plywood:
  • 4 pcs at 16.5″ x 3″
  • 2 pcs at 16.5″ x 1.25″
• Measure 4″ down from the top and attach:
  • Narrow strips flush left and right
  • Wider pieces centered between them

Step 7: Finishing Touches

1. Fill any nail holes or gaps with wood filler.
2. Sand it down.
3. Test fit cans to ensure everything slides correctly.
4. Paint if desired. He used a white oil-based paint.

Step 8: Mount to Wall

1. Secure the rack to the wall into studs for proper support.
2. The rack is designed to hold heavy cans, so hitting studs is critical.

This rack is perfect for pantries, prepper closets, or small kitchens. Each one takes up only about 4 inches of wall space, making it ideal for narrow spots where traditional shelving won’t fit.

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20 Medical Supplies You Forgot To Get

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Even if you’ve already stocked up on basic first aid supplies, there’s a good chance a few important items slipped under your radar. It’s easy to focus on the obvious supplies and forget about some of the lesser-known tools that can still make a big difference in a medical emergency.

Whether it’s something to help you move around, treat burns, or protect your eyes, these overlooked items could end up being just as critical as the standard gear in your first aid kit.

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1. Antibiotics

While you can’t purchase antibiotics over the counter in the United States, some online retailers will ship to your door. Antibiotics are a controlled substance due to creating antibiotic-resistant situations.

However, in an emergency, having penicillin on hand could be the difference between life or death. As always, choose what is best for your family and know the risks of abusing antibiotics.

2. Bandages

While you could make your own bandages out of torn fabric, it is always a good idea to have plenty of medical bandages on hand. Keep a wide assortment from small to large as well as trauma bandages as well. Band-aids can mean a world of difference when a finger or sensitive area is cut.

3. Burn Gel or Burn Dressings

Burns are a common injury in off-grid or emergency scenarios, especially when cooking or using improvised heating methods. Having burn gel or sterile burn dressings on hand can reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote healing.

These specialized treatments offer much more relief and protection than a basic bandage and should be part of any complete medical kit.

4. Crutches

It is common for members of the family to have leg issues in an emergency situation. Scrambling to safety can often mean a twisted ankle or knee. Sometimes a more severe condition, like a broken leg, can create a big problem.

After addressing the issue, it is crucial that the person can still get around without bearing weight on the damaged area. Storing a pair of crutches in your stockpile can be quite helpful.

5. Eye Wash

No one thinks about just how important their eyes are in an emergency. You only have two of them, and if they are damaged, it dramatically reduces your chances of survival.

Keep a solution of eyewash in your stockpile to use for eyes contaminated with many of the possible liquids or smoke that could be used in an emergency situation. Keeping your eyes clean and clear is a vital part of survival.

6. First Aid Books

Even if your family doesn’t have any emergency medical issues, there are other normal ailments that you may need to know about. Storing a good medical book or two can be the difference between life and death when there is no chance of getting to a medical facility. Reading through the books is also an excellent way to pass the time.

I highly recommend The Survival Medicine Handbook by Joseph Alton MD.

7. Goggles

Another overlooked medical supply is plastic goggles. Having a pair of clear goggles for everyone in the family can help protect against any kind of smoke or agent in the air. Again, your eyes are very important in an emergency, and wearing a pair of goggles is a small task to protect yourself. 

8. Head Lamps

Battery-operated headlamps are beneficial in an emergency situation. They help illuminate the area and can be vital when someone has a medical emergency. Consider storing solar-powered headlamps that can be set out in the sunlight during the day so that you don’t need to worry about storing extra batteries.

9. High Filtration Mask

While we all are pretty familiar with masks nowadays, it is essential to get a high filtration mask for each person in your family. These heavy-duty masks are those that have filters included inside the mask that help filter the air. Hopefully, you never need them, but it is important to have them ready to go on hand if you do.

10. Instant Ice Packs

Refrigeration may not be possible in an emergency. Stock up on instant ice packs that can be activated when needed. Ice is an essential medical supply that helps focus the body’s attention on a specific area.

It reduces swelling, numbs pain, and can be a big asset for medical issues. Instant ice packs aren’t activated until shaken, so they can store well in a stockpile.

11. Iodine

As a natural disinfectant, iodine is a critical component of doing any kind of medical procedure in an emergency. Use iodine to disinfect the body of either a cut or if you need to close a wound. Iodine stores well in dark areas, and you can’t have too much in your emergency stockpile.

12. IV Bags

While IV bags are hard to find in America, there are some options that pertain to pets. Storing a few IV bags with some saline solution could help in a dire situation. Educate yourself on how to place an IV but hope that you never need to use it. 

13. Magnifying Glass

It may seem like an odd supply, but a magnifying glass has many different uses in an emergency. You can use the magnifying glass to take a closer look at an area that is wounded.

A magnifying glass can also be used to refract sunlight to start a fire. This is quite helpful for creating a heat source and boiling medical items to disinfect them.

14. Medical Scissors

Keep a pair of medical scissors nearby your emergency stockpile to use quickly in an emergency. Also called trauma scissors, they are designed to make quickly cutting away fabric or clothes. Medical scissors can also be used to cut bandages and other medical supplies.

15. Pedialyte

Known as a product primarily for young children, Pedialyte is often used to help combat dehydration in adults as well. It is a great product that helps heal the body with water and electrolytes.

Pedialyte helps replenish the body after sweating and urinating, which can help in an emergency. You can find plastic jugs of it at any local grocery store for easy storage.

16. Rubbing Alcohol

On the slim chance that you would need to perform a surgery, hard alcohol can be used to help dull the senses to reduce pain. Alcohol is also a natural disinfectant when needed, and it has many other uses as well. Store bottles of alcohol in a cool and dry place and hide them if necessary to keep them for emergency purposes only.

17. Suture Kit

While you probably aren’t a surgeon in real life, it is highly possible that you would need to close a wound in an emergency. Suture kits are vital in closing an area that would otherwise get infected. Consider adding a small card to the suture kit showing different kinds of stitches and closures to help aid you when needed.

18. Syringes

Storing a box of syringes is a good idea in an emergency. Needles can be used to administer medicine as well as used as a vacuum to remove excess fluid. Having a good amount of syringes on hand is best so that you don’t reuse syringes that can be contaminated.

19. Tongue Depressors

Often forgotten but surprisingly versatile, tongue depressors can be used for more than just checking the throat. In an emergency, they’re ideal for splinting fingers, applying ointments, mixing medications, or even improvising a small brace. Lightweight and cheap, these wooden sticks take up almost no space but can serve dozens of functions in a medical emergency.

20. Trash Bags

Storing a roll or box of trash bags is always helpful in an emergency. The trash bags help keep your area clean of used medical equipment and are suitable for other things as well. Use trash bags as a makeshift poncho to keep out the rain, as well as an extra layer of protection to keep bodies warm. 

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How to Make Your Home Bulletproof

Let’s not sugarcoat it, folks. The world is getting more dangerous by the day. We’ve seen the breakdown of civility in major cities, we’ve watched riots, looting, and violence play out in real time on our screens, and it doesn’t take a genius to see where this is all heading. If you’re like me, you’ve […]

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Butter: Everything You May Not Know

Butter is one of the most popular dairy products available in grocery stores. It’s a kitchen staple that millions of people use to create hundreds of different meals. You can spread it on your toast, add it to your corn on the cob, incorporate it into your mashed potatoes, or even melt it before using it to make cookies and cakes. Butter comes in handy when used as an ingredient in dozens of different recipes.

However, there are some things you might not know about butter. If you’d like to learn more, check out these interesting facts about butter that many people may not know. In case you missed this post, Easy To Make Dinner Rolls For Two

Butter: Everything You May Not Know

Where Does Butter Come From?

You might already know that butter comes from traditional cow’s milk. The cream of the milk gets churned and eventually turns into butter. Unsalted butter is the way it traditionally tastes, without any additives. I never buy unsalted butter; I only purchase salted. It has always worked in recipes calling for unsalted butter.

However, many recipes call for salted butter, which tends to have a richer flavor. If you’re making something sweet, you’re more likely to use unsalted butter compared to using salted butter when preparing something savory.

Butter is semi-solid. While you can buy it at the store in solid form, it’s easy to turn it into a liquid. If you ever want to use liquid butter instead of a stick of butter, add the stick to a microwave-safe container, heat it for about 30-45 seconds, and then remove it from the microwave.

When you pull the container out of the microwave, you’ll quickly see that it’s melted and ready to use. Many people use melted butter on their popcorn, corn on the cob, potatoes, vegetables, and other foods. 

Are Butter and Margarine the Same Thing?

Butter and margarine aren’t the same thing. While they may look alike, they don’t contain the same ingredients, and the taste is much different. Don’t be fooled by brands that will claim that you can’t taste the difference.

Anyone who enjoys fresh, real butter will quickly identify the difference in taste between a traditional stick of butter and a spoonful of margarine.

Modern margarine products contain vegetable oils. In addition, traditional butter typically consists of dairy fat, whereas margarine does not include any dairy fat.

Which Is Better to Use, Butter or Margarine?

There is a great debate over which of the two to use as an ingredient in various recipes. However, it all depends on your personal preference. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative, margarine is a good option. However, if you want that true, authentic butter taste, you need to stick with the real thing. No brand of margarine can compare to the fresh taste of butter.

When Did Butter Become an Ingredient Used by People?

It’s believed that butter has been around since 2000 BC, which is a very long time ago! It’s hard to say who originated the idea, but we know it’s been around for ages and is unlikely to go anywhere anytime soon.

You may have thought it was a kitchen staple created in the early 1900s or the late 1800s, but researchers believe butter existed way before then, allowing individuals to add flavor to their foods.

The Different Ways to Use Butter

Did you know that you can fry a stick of butter? While it’s not the healthiest thing to do, there are times when people can buy this concoction at festivals and fairs. Before frying, a cold stick of butter is tossed into an egg wash and then dipped in flour or another type of breading.

It is then placed in hot oil, where it sits for a few minutes. It sits in the oil long enough for the flour to create a crisp coating around the butter, but not long enough to cause the butter to melt. It’s unusual to think that something like that exists, but it does, and people love it. I do not recommend doing this at home.

Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

If you’re not frying your butter, don’t feel like an outcast. You’re not the only one who isn’t preparing it that way! However, you may use butter to prepare other things. For example, butter is an excellent addition to homemade macaroni and cheese.

You can prepare a roux for your macaroni and cheese using flour, butter, cheese, and spices. After you’ve prepared the roux, you can pour it over the boiled pasta that you’ve drained, creating a delicious stovetop macaroni and cheese for the family.

Cakes and Crusts

When you want to make something sweet instead of savory, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar to create a homemade crust for pies, cheesecakes, and other delicious desserts.

You can also combine melted butter, eggs, milk, and a boxed cake mix to prepare a cake that tastes as if it came from a bakery. You can impress your loved ones with an incredible boxed cake that doesn’t taste like it came from a box at all, with a bit of melted butter as the secret ingredient.

Toast

When you’re not feeling well, there is nothing quite as settling for the stomach as a piece of toast with some butter spread on top. Some people like to spread the butter first and then add a bit of jam or jelly on top. So, whether you prefer strawberry jam, grape jelly, or any other flavor, you can enjoy it to the fullest with a bit of butter on a crispy piece of toast.

You can do so much more than these things with butter. Whether you’re baking a cake, making cookies from scratch, preparing a pasta dish, or even boiling some corn, butter is a great ingredient to have in the fridge. You never know when you’ll need it next.

Have long does butter last?

I quote the USDA, “Butter and margarine are safe at room temperature. However, if butter is left out at room temperature for several days, its flavor can turn rancid, so it’s best to use whatever you can within a day or two. Margarine, especially soft tub margarine, can separate into oil or water and solids when not kept refrigerated, although it will be safe.”

Do Butter Bells work?

Yes, they do, but you need to change the water every three days or the butter will get too warm and sink to the bottom. In other words, the butter goes for a swim, so to speak. To use a Butter Bell, you need to have soft butter to squeeze or press down into the bell part.

My Butter Bell suggests 1/3 cup of fresh, cold water every 3 days to be filled in the lower section of the bell. Butter Bell Crock: It holds 1/2 cup (125 grams) of butter.

The water makes an airtight seal that keeps oxygen away from the butter (oxygen is what turns butter rancid or sour and not tasty or safe). The butter will be fine for a week or two IF you change out the water every 2-3 days. When in doubt, throw it out.

Can I freeze butter?

Yes, you can. When butter goes on sale, I stock up in a big way. Why, because butter is expensive, and I never want to run out of this precious commodity. I freeze it. I like to have at least twenty pounds in the freezer at all times. The USDA states butter is good in the freezer for 6-9 months.

What kind of butter does not need to be refrigerated?

I quote Healthline, “Unsalted, whipped, or raw, unpasteurized butter is best kept in the fridge to minimize the chances of bacterial growth ( 4 ). Salted butter does not need to be stored in the fridge since the risk of bacterial growth is so low.”

How can I tell if my butter has gone bad?

• If you see any mold, discard it all. Better safe than sorry and sick.
• If it smells sour or rancid, discard the entire batch.
• When in doubt, throw it out.

Final Word 

Don’t settle for imitation butter when preparing a variety of foods. If you want the quality taste that comes from butter due to the churning process, skip the margarine and opt for butter during your next grocery store visit. You won’t regret choosing butter over margarine! It tastes better, lasts longer, and is far more versatile. May God bless this world, Linda.

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