Daily Survival: 2024

Today, we’re diving into the world of reusing plastic Ziploc™ bags. I think a huge part of prepping is reusing what we have. I can’t tell you how many different Ziploc™ bags I have thrown away. However, a few years ago, I started to reuse them! I want to talk about how to reuse Ziploc™ bags properly.

Plastic as a significant environmental hazard is getting a lot of attention, and rightfully so. The global economy on our planet seems to rely so much on plastic packaging, and especially plastic storage bags. Most people view these bags as single-use plastic bags. Not only are landfills inundated with plastic shopping bags and plastic packaging, but they are also adversely affecting our waterways, lakes, and oceans. They harm ecosystems ranging from coral reefs, to commercial fisheries, to spawning grounds for numerous species. We need to figure out other ways to use these bags, and Ziploc brand bags are a favorite we all tend to use.

Why Reuse Ziploc™ Bags?

First things first, why bother reusing Ziploc™ bags in the first place? Besides the obvious benefit of reducing waste, it’s also a fantastic way to save cash. Those bags can add cost and clutter, so why not get the most bang for your buck? There are many ways to reuse Ziploc™ bags properly.

1. Cleaning and Maintenance

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about keeping those bags clean and in tip-top shape. After each use, please give them a good rinse with warm or hot, soapy water. Hot water with soap can help kill any bacteria, mildew, and mold that may be present in or on the bag’s surface. If they’re super greasy or sticky, you might need to break out the big guns and use some vinegar or baking soda squeaky clean. Be careful with greasy stuff. They rarely come out clean and leave a residue. I toss those. I never reuse bags where I have stored any raw meat; it’s not safe, in my opinion. 20 Easy Spring Cleaning Tasks You Can Do Today

You also need to consider people with allergies to things like peanuts. Allergy-triggering foods can be very dangerous, and it’s not worth trying to save money reusing the bag if it risks sickness. Also, make sure the bags are dry by using a dry rack to air dry the bag and to hold the bags open before any reuse.

If you smell any strange odors or if the bag still has stains, I’d be throwing that bag out!

2. Food Storage

One of the most obvious ways to reuse Ziploc™ bags is for food storage. Whether packing lunches, storing leftovers, or prepping ingredients for your next culinary masterpiece, these bags are kitchen essentials with lots of convenience built in. Just make sure to label them with the contents and date to avoid any mystery meals lurking in the back of your fridge or on your pantry shelf. Effective Ways To Prepare For Food Shortages

The sandwich bags can easily be used a number of times if used to hold dry foods. It may just take wiping them out with a cloth or paper towel to get any crumbs remaining.

Due to their strength, they make great freezer bags that aren’t prone to tear open easily. They are convenient to store things in your refrigerator for a few days. Just make sure they are tightly sealed and stored upright.

3. On-the-Go Essentials

Ziploc bags are also perfect for keeping your essentials organized when you’re on the go. Toss your phone, keys, and wallet into a baggie to keep them safe from spills or leaks in your purse or travel bag. Plus, they’re great for stashing snacks, hand sanitizer, or other adventure must-haves. What Are 20 Basic Items in an Emergency Kit?

4. Travel Companions

Speaking of adventures, Ziploc™ bags are a traveler’s best friend. Use them to separate your toiletries and prevent shampoo explosions in your suitcase. They’re also handy for packing snacks, storing dirty laundry, or keeping your passport and other important documents safe and dry. 35 Items Every Prepper Should Have When Traveling

If you have to travel with some prescription medications, you can use these bags to safely transport the meds. I’d plan to use small bags and keep the various prescriptions separate from each other. Their use makes drug administration during the day very easily accomplished. You could even do the same thing at home with the various bags kept safely in their child-safe container but stored in the bags in a convenient drawer.

5. DIY Projects

Get ready to flex those creative muscles because Ziploc™ bags are high-quality zip-top bags and are perfect for all DIY projects. Use them as piping bags for frosting cupcakes, make ice packs by filling them with water and popping them in the freezer, or get crafty and turn them into waterproof pouches for your phone on beach days. How to Reduce Waste as a Prepper

6. Gardening Expert

Believe it or not, Ziploc™ bags can be helpful in the garden. Use them to collect seeds, start seedlings, or protect delicate plants from frost. They’re a great way to store small tools or keep your gardening gloves clean and dry when not digging in the dirt. How To Improve The Soil In Raised Garden Beds

7. Arts and Crafts

Calling all crafters! Ziploc™ bags are a must-have for all your creative endeavors. Use them to organize beads, buttons, and other small supplies, or get messy and use them as paint palettes or small makeshift aprons for messy projects. The possibilities are endless! How to Use Chalk in Emergency Preparedness

8. Pet Palooza

Furry friends deserve some love, and Ziploc™ bags can help keep them happy and healthy. Use them to store pet treats, organize grooming supplies, or even make DIY ice packs for hot summer days. Just keep them out of curious paws’ reach to avoid accidental snacking. What to do With Your Pets in an Emergency

More Tips

Final Word

With a little creativity and a whole lot of Ziploc™ bags, you can reduce waste, save money, and keep your life organized and tidy. So, the next time you reach for that plastic baggie, think twice about tossing it in the trash and give it a second life instead. May God Bless this World, Linda

The post How to Properly Reuse Ziploc™ Bags appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

28 Really Interesting Facts About Bees

If all you’ve ever done is buy honey off of the grocery store shelf, you might not have a true appreciation for what it takes to get that delicious, golden stuff in that little bear-shaped bottle. Of course you know that bees make honey, but if you don’t know a lot about the day in ... Read more

28 Really Interesting Facts About Bees can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead https://ift.tt/gFemvdQ

28 Really Interesting Facts About Bees

28 Really Interesting Facts About Bees can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

Items I Stockpile Because I Don’t Trust the Government

It’s comforting to assume that government agencies on a federal, state and local level will swoop in to provide aid and assistance in a time of natural or manmade disasters. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case and even when they do the services and goods provided are often both limited and rationed. Hurricane Katrina continues […]

The post Items I Stockpile Because I Don’t Trust the Government appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

from Ask a Prepper https://ift.tt/XajT8SQ

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Get Rid of These 11 Things That Attract Flies – ASAP

There is nothing you are going through that cannot be made worse by the presence of flies. From common annoyances like house flies to the biting, blood-sucking horse fly to the congregating clouds of clusterflies: they’re all nasty, all aggravating, and can make your life and the lives of your animals hell. And getting rid ... Read more

Get Rid of These 11 Things That Attract Flies – ASAP can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

How to find civilization when you get lost in the wilderness

In my youth, I learned firsthand that getting lost in the wilderness is inherently terrifying. The situation can escalate quickly if you lack a sense of direction and know-how.

The post How to find civilization when you get lost in the wilderness appeared first on Survivopedia.

from Survivopedia

Very Basic Steps for Starting Emergency Prepping

Alrighty, buckle up because we’re diving into the world of emergency prepping! Whether you’re a hardcore doomsday prepper or just someone looking to be more prepared for life’s curveballs, getting started with emergency prepping doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s all about taking small steps to build your readiness and self-reliance over time. I want to talk about the fundamental steps for starting emergency prepping.

I’ve told my readers for years to start one can at a time. Don’t feel like you need to go into debt and buy pallets of food all at once. Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way as you develop your family emergency plan.

Assess Your Risks

First, consider the kinds of emergencies that could realistically happen in your area. Is your location prone to floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires, or blizzards? Maybe you live in a bustling city where power outages and transportation disruptions are more common. Understanding your risks will help you tailor your prepping efforts by gathering your resources to deal with the situations you will most likely encounter.

Make a Plan

Once you’ve got a handle on your potential risks, it’s time to make a plan. Sit down with your family or other household members and discuss what you would do in various emergencies. This might include where you would meet if separated or if you had to evacuate what your evacuation routes would be. You need to decide how you would communicate if cell service was down, and what supplies you would need to have on hand for food and water. Keep your plan simple and flexible, and don’t forget to practice it now and then so everyone knows what to do when the time comes. 10 Reasons Stockpiling Emergency Supplies Makes Sense

From time to time, you should review the plan and make any adjustments necessary due to changing circumstances. Being self-reliant means being flexible as you learn to deal with different scenarios. That doesn’t mean having to completely change your lifestyle, but it does mean setting priorities and trying to stick to them.

Build a Kit

Now comes the fun part: building your emergency kit or survival kit! Start by gathering basic supplies like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, and any prescription medications you might need. Think about what you would need to survive for at least three days without outside assistance. As you’re putting your kit together, don’t forget about your furry friends, make sure you have food, water, and supplies for those pets too! How to Create an Emergency Prepping Kit

Stay Informed

Knowledge is power when it comes to emergency preparedness, so make sure you stay informed about potential threats in your area. It would be good if there was a simple manual to read, but my book is one of the few I can recommend. Sign up for emergency alerts from your local government or download a weather app that will notify you of severe weather warnings. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to respond quickly and effectively when disaster strikes and you have to react in on a moment’s notice.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Finally, don’t just set it and forget it; practice your emergency plan regularly! Survival skills aren’t learned overnight. Hold drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency, and update your kit as needed to account for changes in your situation or new threats. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel in handling whatever comes your way.

Why should I bother prepping for emergencies?

Prepping for emergencies is all about being ready for the unexpected. Whether it’s a natural disaster, power outage, or some other unforeseen event, having a plan and supplies in place can help keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable until things return to normal.

The old adage that food, clothing, and shelter are the keys to survival still applies today. Being self-reliant can seem challenging, but take your time and initially take baby steps as you find your way. It’s more than gathering supplies, you need to consider flood insurance in some locations, and extra water in others. The need for proper nutrition is part of the planning process just as personal hygiene and hydration are.

How do I know what kind of emergencies to prepare for?

Start by considering the types of emergencies most likely in your area. Do you live in an area prone to hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, or blizzards? Consider the most common threats and tailor your prepping efforts accordingly. Will you need extra clothing, blankets, diapers, rain gear, and other items for cold or hot weather conditions?

What should I include in my emergency kit?

Your emergency kit should include basic supplies to help you survive for at least three days without outside assistance. These should include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, medications, and pet supplies. Don’t forget about items like a multi-tool, cash, and copies of important documents like insurance policies and birth certificates, too!

There has been a lot of talk about 72-hour kits, bug-out bags, and other grab-and-go options. They are important and should always be placed in a convenient place for easy access.

How much water should I store for emergencies?

The general rule of thumb is to have at least one gallon of water per person daily for drinking and sanitation. So, for a family of four, you’d want to have at least 12 gallons of water to last three days. I believe 4 gallons per person per day is more realistic as you consider the need for hydration, cooking, personal hygiene, and limited laundry effort.

Where should I keep my emergency supplies?

Store your emergency supplies in a cool, dry place where they’ll be easily accessible in an emergency. Consider keeping a smaller kit in your home and a larger kit in your car or workplace. Emergency Supply Checklist We All Need

How often should I update my emergency kit?

It is a good idea to check and update your emergency kit at least once a year. Make sure your supplies are not expired, replace any items that have been used or damaged, and adjust your kit based on changes in your family’s needs or your local risks.

More Tips

Final Word

And there you have it, a crash course in emergency prepping for beginners! Remember, it’s all about taking small steps to build your readiness over time, so don’t stress if you can’t do everything all at once. Take it one step at a time; before you know it, you’ll be a bona fide prepping pro! What basic steps for starting emergency prepping do you have to share? May God Bless this World, Linda

The post Very Basic Steps for Starting Emergency Prepping appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

24 Ways Humans Totally Beat AI Every Time

The post 24 Ways Humans Totally Beat AI Every Time appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

21 Vital Tips for Securing Your Homestead Perimeter

The post 21 Vital Tips for Securing Your Homestead Perimeter appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

How to Store Food in a Hot Climate

[…]

The post How to Store Food in a Hot Climate appeared first on The Survival Mom.

from The Survival Mom https://ift.tt/U7Zys2W

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

When the West Was Young

I’m a big fan of the Western genre, especially the books by Louis L’Amour. Of all the western writers I’ve seen, I think he understands the times, the people and the places better than anyone else.

The post When the West Was Young appeared first on Survivopedia.

from Survivopedia

25 Items That Will Become Worthless in a Post-Apocalyptic World

The post 25 Items That Will Become Worthless in a Post-Apocalyptic World appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

Never Feed This to Your Chickens

Though our chickens roam the world and eat everything growing on it, there are some plants and food items that they really should avoid. In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the best things to avoid and why. Let’s get started. Vegetables Though most chickens love vegetables (especially colorful ones), there are a […]

The post Never Feed This to Your Chickens appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

from Ask a Prepper https://ift.tt/trwCiIP

Monday, April 29, 2024

Things to Stock Up On Before a Hurricane

While we should be prepared for when a disaster hits, we rarely are. I wrote this a few years ago when Hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas at a category 5 before scaling the Florida coast and causing quite a mess there.

Many people are not prepared for a hurricane, let alone a category 5 hurricane. When it comes to a hurricane, you need to make sure you are stocked to bunker down, as well as stocked to get out of town.

You never know when a category 1 could turn into a life-threatening category 5 hurricane. Below, you will find things to stock up on before a hurricane that will get you through the mild or severe!

Why Should You Be Prepared for a Hurricane?

Hurricanes and tropical storms pose three different hazards: wind, rain, and storm surge. Depending on the category of the hurricane, you could have minimal damage to less common catastrophic damage.

When you live in an area that often has the threat of a hurricane, you should have enough of everything listed to last you for 7-10 days at the least. Here is why you should be prepared for a hurricane based on each hurricane category:

Category 1

A category 1 hurricane is minimal; however, it can affect you for several days. It can cause some damage to houses, especially mobile homes, tree branches can be thrown or topple on your property, and powerlines can be damaged. Although these damages are minimal, here’s what could happen:

Power Lines are damaged which means you may not be able to use debit or credit cards at your local stores. You will need cash. You may lose the ability to communicate, cool your home, have lights, TV or other electrical appliances, etc.
Trees branches could cause severe damage to your home. You would need supplies ready during this time.
Stores, restaurants, and shops may be shut down due to power outages or property damage.

Category 2

During a category 2 hurricane, you’ll have stronger winds which can cause more damage than the category 1 hurricane. Here are some things that could happen:

Power outages that last more than a few days. You won’t have power in your home.
Power outages can cause stores, restaurants, banks, and shops to shut down for a few days.
You may not be able to pay for things like fuel, food, and water with anything but cash for a few days.

Category 3

Once a hurricane gets to a category 3, you are looking at substantial damage to trees and houses. Here are some reasons why you would want to be prepared for a category 3 hurricane:

It will take roofs off of well-constructed homes.
Knocks out electric and water systems for days or even weeks.
The roads will be blocked by fallen trees and poles.

Category 4

A category 4 hurricane is catastrophic to those who are in its path. You will be looking at more damage than with any of the other hurricanes. Here is why anyone should be prepared for this type of hurricane:

Affected areas may be uninhabitable for days or weeks afterward.
Most trees will have fallen and caused damage.
Most electric poles will have been damaged and fallen.
You will see catastrophic damage to most homes, even those that are well-constructed.

Category 5

A category 5 hurricane will need to be prepared for in a whole new way. Most people can not hunker down during a category 5 hurricane. In fact, you’ll want to be prepared to get out of Dodge. Recovery from this can take months.

Because hurricanes can be so destructive, it is important to be prepared. Below, you will find things you need to stock up on before a hurricane strikes.

Things to Stock Up on Before a Hurricane

Because hurricanes can go from category 1 to higher categories, it is important to be prepared. You can be prepared by stocking up on the right things in your home. Here are some things to stock up on in case of a hurricane:

#1 Food

Even in a category 1 hurricane, machines at local grocery stores may be down. Buying food may be a challenge for a few days and the stores themselves may have difficulty getting inventory. I would recommend having at least 2 weeks’ worth of food, but at the very least, you need 3 days per person. If you aren’t sure what food to stock up on, here are some good options that include many non-perishable foods:

Cereal: a kid’s favorite in any situation
Dried fruit: like apricots, mango, peaches, and raisins
Soup in a can: I especially like creamed chicken and mushroom soups, but all are appropriate and inexpensive if purchased before the hurricane season. Look for canned goods case lot sales.
Canned vegetables: all provide some nutrients we all need. Look for items you can use in some of your favorite recipes, like green beans, corn, peas, and carrots.
Fruit in a can: just like veggies, you can get most of your favorite fruits in a can, like peaches, various berries, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and more.
Powdered or canned milk: many milk options are shelf-stable. If you have family members who are lactose intolerant, consider almond milk, soy milk, rice milk, coconut milk, Brazil nut milk, and cashew nut milk.
Peanut butter: like cereal, a favorite with the kids, but also adults. A versatile product with many uses.
Granola bars, energy bars, and other snacks
Saltine crackers
Trail mix
Canned meat like tuna, salmon, beef, sardines, and chicken
Pet food

#2 Water

Even though a hurricane is sure to dump a bunch of water everywhere, it is not drinkable. Water pipes and lines may be broken. This means you could be looking for another water source in place of running water. The CDC recommends storing 1 gallon of water per day per person for a 3-day supply.

However, I would recommend storing 4 gallons per person per day instead to cover hydration, cooking, some personal hygiene, and limited laundry. Don’t forget to include water for your pets. You will want to store enough water for at least 3-7 days.

#3 A First Aid Kit

Whether there is category 1 or a category 3 hurricane, you will want to always have your First Aid kit stocked. This could quite literally save your life in any situation, not just a hurricane. If you don’t have a First Aid kit, you can learn how to fully stock one in my First Aid for Kit for Survival post. There is more to a quality first aid kit than just bandages.

#4 Health Supplies

Usually, you know a hurricane is coming at least a week before it gets here. So, it may be easier to get your medications filled before it hits. However, there are other health supplies you will want to make sure you have such as:

Vitamins
Pain relief such as Ibuprofen
Anti-diarrhea medications
Your prescription medications (2 week supply if possible)
Insurance cards

#5 Toiletries

Most people think about stocking up on toilet paper, paper towels, and baby wipes, but there are a few other things you really need to keep stocked as well. These include:

Shampoo
Soap
Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Feminine hygiene products
Baby wipes
Diapers
Toilet paper
Sun screen

#6 Important Documents

When SHTF, you want to make sure you stored your important documents where you can easily access them. You’ll need copies of the following important documents:

Driver’s license
Social Security cards
Birth certificates
Insurance cards
Home and property insurance policies

Use my Important Documents Emergency Grab and Go Binder to make sure you have everything you need in one place.

#7 Other Important Things to Stock Up On Before a Hurricane

Additionally, you will want to make sure you are stocked up on some life-saving supplies. Here are some other items you should have stocked in your home:

Flashlights: One for each person along with extra batteries. I like my solar flashlights and keep them charged by storing them on window sills.
Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
Solar-powered chargers and equipment
Plastic grocery bags
Butane lighters and matches: store them in plastic bags to protect them
Portable cooler/ice chest
Portable barbecue grill or camp stove
Utility knife
Handheld can opener and eating utensils
Extra blankets and pillows in waterproof pouches
Bleach: you can use this as your cleaning agent for everything
Clothing: at least one extra set in a waterproof container
Sturdy gloves
Propane canisters or charcoal for BBQ’s using waterproof matches or a lighter
Fire extinguisher(s)

Things to Stock Up On in Your Car Before a Hurricane

Just as hurricane Dorian started at category 1 and reached a category 5 by the time it hit the Bahamas, you never know what could happen. Just in case, you should have your car stocked for a hurricane as well. This will help you if you need to evacuate as directed. Here is a list of items you will want to have in your car:

Extra blankets
1-set of extra clothes for each person
Water-3 days worth per person
Food-3 days worth per person as an emergency food supply
Paper maps
Full gas jug
Car charger
Important documents binder
Smaller first aid kit
An emergency car kit

Final Word

When it comes to a natural disaster, a hurricane generally gives you quite a bit of time to prepare. However, when it comes to getting things stocked, hurricane proofing your home, or needing to evacuate, you’ll want to be prepared before you even know a hurricane is coming. Not only are these things to stock up on before a hurricane, but they can be useful anytime you’re faced with an emergency situation.

Thanks again for being prepared for the unexpected. May God bless this world, Linda

Copyright Images: Hurricane with Man And Umbrella Depositphotos_11142502_S By Lucidwaters, Hurricane Irma Depositphotos_166696460_S By Felixtm

The post Things to Stock Up On Before a Hurricane appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

How to Make Pinecone Soda

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

The primary thing that defines a soda is carbonation. It’s a suspension of carbon dioxide bubbles held under pressure in liquid in a sealed container. The base for the liquid is usually water, and all types of flavoring give the soda its taste.

The tricky part is carbonating the water. There are mechanical carbonators that you can buy, but we’re going to take a pioneer approach and use fermentation to create our carbonation.

Want to save this post for later? Click Here to Pin It On Pinterest!

Wild Yeast is the Key

Wild yeast is everywhere, drifting through the air and descending onto just about everything. What’s important is to find wild yeast that has found a sweet spot that encourages it to thrive and grow.

This “wild” yeast often appears as a thin, dusty white film on plants and fruits. If you’ve ever seen white dust on grapes, you’re looking at wild yeast. The good news is that wild yeast thrives on things beyond grapes, and green pine cones are included in that group.

Pine Cone Varieties Matter

Before you go out and harvest every green pine cone you see, be forewarned. Some pine or “conifer” trees are toxic and will produce a soda flavor somewhere between turpentine and Pine-sol. You need to know your pines and select the right pine cones.

White pines are the most common tree for pine cone soda. The green cones from a White Pine produce a soda with some lemony flavor notes and a delicate pine scent.

Pinyon pine cones are actually the best pine cones for pine cone soda, but they grow in a limited range in the western United States. For those of us who don't live there, that leaves the White Pines, but Spruce can also work. Here’s the basic list of trees that are safe for pine cone soda:

Pines including white pine or pitch pine
Fir trees including Fraser fir, Douglas fir, or balsam fir
Spruce trees including Norway spruce, or white spruce

What’s important is to avoid pine cones from trees like cedar, cypress and yew.

The trees are toxic and parts of the yew are actually poisonous.

Collecting the Pine Cones

Spring into early summer is the best time of year to collect green pine cones. You’ll need to pick them directly from the tree. One challenge is the fact that many of these green pine cones grow towards the top of the tree, so you may need a ladder or fruit harvesting pole.

Green pine cones tend to be smaller in early spring and larger as you get into summer. Avoid any pine cones that have started to turn brown. They don’t have as much flavor or wild yeast, and can even impart an off-flavor to your soda.

The easiest way to pluck a green pine cone from a tree is to twist it off. With any luck, you’ll find some low-hanging branches that are easier to harvest. Just keep looking around the perimeter of the tree. Climb if you must.

Remember to wear gloves when harvesting green pine cones. They are often loaded with a sticky sap and can be a mess. The sap cleans off with hot water and soap, but gloves help when you’re harvesting.

You don’t need hundreds of green pine cones. Anywhere from a half-dozen large to a dozen smaller green cones will make a half-gallon of soda. Just make sure they’re green and don’t show any signs of bugs or other damage. You want clean cones. However, don’t wash them. That will wash off the yeast. Just make sure they look good.

Making Pine Cone Soda

It takes about a week to make pine cone soda, and it should be kept refrigerated and consumed in about a week. This isn’t about long term food storage; it’s just a way to create a carbonated beverage from available resources around you.

We’re going to cover the basics for making pine cone soda, and then go over a variation for pine needle soda.

The pine needle soda is a good option in fall and winter when green pine cones are few and far between, but you still want to make a pine soda.

Pine Cone Soda Recipe

Equipment:

A large, sterile glass container or crock with a fairly tight fitting lid. You want the lid to be somewhat loose so any excess carbon dioxide gases can escape.
A wooden spoon or some way to stir your mixture.
Empty and sterile plastic bottles, glass bottles or canning jars to store your pine cone soda. What’s important is a very tight fitting lid to hold in the carbonation.

Ingredients:

This is for a small batch. Double or triple the recipe if you want to make more.

2 quarts of water
6 to 12 green pine cones depending on size.
¾ cup of white or brown sugar ( You can substitute equal amounts of honey, molasses or maple syrup. They will impart a light, amber tinge to your soda similar to what you see in cream soda. The sugar is important to activate the yeast to release carbon dioxide for carbonation. You could add a cup and a half of sugar if you want to ferment your mixture into a light alcohol, but be sure you measure carefully with ¾ cup of any sugar if you’re making soda for the kids.)

Directions:

1. Add your pine cones to the jar.

2. Add ¾ cup of sugar.

3. Add 2 quarts of water.

4. Stir with the wooden spoon until the sugar is dissolved.

5. Place in a cool, dark place covered.

6. Shake or stir the mixture 2 to times a day.

7. After 2 or 3 days you’ll start to see bubbles forming.

8. Taste when the bubbles start to show up until you like the flavor and level of carbonation.

9. Carefully and slowly pour into your sterile containers and cap tightly.

Keep refrigerated and try to drink it within the next week.

Pine Cone Soda Fails

If the pine cone water turns cloudy, try filtering it through a coffee filter. It may just be a cloudy result from particulate matter adhering to the pine cones. If the pine cone water turns cloudy once again, smell it. If it has a septic or mildew odor, just discard it and start over. Lots of things can adhere to the surface of a pine cone besides yeast, and you may have a polluted batch.
If you never see any bubbles, that means the yeast isn’t growing. Capturing wild yeast is a bit of a hit or miss proposition, and it's possible you just happened to harvest some pine cones that had little or no yeast. This can happen if you are harvesting very early in spring. As time goes on, the higher the likelihood that your green pine cones will have a coating of wild yeast.
The soda goes flat. This is usually because of a packaging problem. Just make sure you pour the pine cone soda slowly into your container so you don’t release too many bubbles, and make sure it is sealed tightly to hold in the carbonation as much as possible.
It just doesn’t taste good. Hopefully you’ve tasted before bottling, and if it tasted good going in, it should taste good later. If it doesn’t, you may have a bad batch; it has become contaminated somehow, or you have a variety of pine cone that has partially toxic properties. Make sure you know how to identify your pines so you harvest the right pine cones.

Pine Needle Soda Recipe

By late summer and going into fall and winter, green pine cones can be hard to find. They might still be out there, but by then most have turned brown, opened to release their nuts, and either stay on the tree or fall to the ground.

The good news is that pine trees are evergreens which basically means that they are green all the time. The pine needles maintain their color and moisture year-round, and the same wild yeast that dusts the green pine cones also coat the needles.

The same trees that you harvest for green pine cones can be harvested for their needles to make pine needle soda. You should also avoid those trees we mentioned when harvesting pine cones. These include cedar, cypress and yew

The flavor of pine needle soda is less intense than pine cone soda with a lighter lemony flavor with some mild hints of ginger flavor notes. It is also a clear soda color and will often be much clearer than some batches of pine cone soda.

Equipment:

2-pint bottles with a cap or lid (flip tops are best to release any excess carbon dioxide gas while the soda ferments but the caps should be able to be sealed tight for final bottling)

Ingredients:

4 cups of Water (filtered water with some minerals is best, don’t use tap water because it may contain chlorine which will kill the wild yeast).
8 Tablespoons of Sugar (you can substitute brown sugar, honey, molasses or maple syrup in equal measures)
2 cups of long White Pine needles (White pine needles grow in bundles of 5 or more needles. You can use equal amounts of other pine varieties we’ve already identified).

Directions:

1. Collect pine needles from white pine trees or other edible conifers. Remove the woody ends from the pine needles. Do not wash or rinse the pine needles. You will lose the wild yeast.

2. Pour 4 tbsps. of sugar into the bottle or substitute an equal amount of brown sugar, honey, molasses, or maple syrup.

3. Place the pine needles in bottle. Make sure they don’t protrude above the top where you partially seal the lid.

4. Fill the bottle with filtered or bottled water. Avoid chlorinated tap water.

5. Close the lid and give the bottle a good shake until the sugar or other sweeteners are dissolved and equally distributed.

In cold weather, you can put the bottle by a window but keep it out of direct sunlight. The UV rays from the sun could kill the will yeast. If outdoors and in hot weather, keep the bottle in the shade and out of direct sunlight.

6. Shake the bottles 2 or times a day and make sure the lid can vent excess carbon dioxide. Taste as you go and when it suits your taste, tightly cap it.

7. Refrigerate and drink within a week. If you have any doubts about the purity, filter it and rebottle.

8. To serve, fill a cup with ice cubes and a few slices of lemon. Open

the bottle and pour the pine needle soda over the ice cubes. Stir and enjoy. Maybe add a few pine needles as a garnish.

It Could be a Regular Thing

Nothing’s getting cheaper these days, and the ability to make something as fun and refreshing as your own soft-drinks kind of makes sense. The only downside is there’s still sugars in the beverage, but the sugars are necessary to activate the yeast. You also might want to think about filtering and purifying the final result because washing the pine cones or pine needles removes the wild yeast. That’s up to you.

After a few trial runs making pine cone and pine needle soda could become a regular thing. It’s fun and easy to do and kids would no doubt enjoy the process. In time it may become the only way you drink soda.

Like this post? Don't Forget to Pin It On Pinterest!

You May Also Like:

The post How to Make Pinecone Soda appeared first on Homestead Survival Site.

from Homestead Survival Site https://ift.tt/DuTzUiX

The 11 Most Profitable Crops You Can Grow and Why

Lots of homesteaders turn to growing crops not just to feed themselves and their families, but to make or supplement a living. This starts off well enough, but as soon as you realize that an entire acre of corn or wheat will sell for about $1,000 bucks or even less, it will quickly douse your ... Read more

The 11 Most Profitable Crops You Can Grow and Why can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

Which States Have the Most Homeless? Every State Ranked

The post Which States Have the Most Homeless? Every State Ranked appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

13 Lost Survival Skills Your Ancestors Had

The post 13 Lost Survival Skills Your Ancestors Had appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

16 Urban Survival Skills You Need to Master Today

The post 16 Urban Survival Skills You Need to Master Today appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

Places to Avoid After an EMP Strike

In a world characterized by increased reliance on electronic systems, the potential of disruption to our daily lives due to a failure of these systems seems an ever more likely and inevitable event. Electronic systems are not impervious, and we often see the devastating results that hackers can have on computer-controlled operations. EMPs are a […]

The post Places to Avoid After an EMP Strike appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

from Ask a Prepper https://ift.tt/K1cXz4l

Sunday, April 28, 2024

Your Car Needs Emergency Items For Survival

Your car needs emergency items for survival because, as you know, Mother Nature can come up with some real surprises. Years ago we heard about Hurricane Matthew and how it was a huge concern for millions of people in the path of this horrific storm. I have been posting for years on Facebook and Instagram to keep your gas tanks above 3/4 full instead of my usual above 1/2 full in case you need to evacuate.

When a storm like that hits, or even with wildfires or severe snow storms, on the news we can see miles of cars lined up outside gas stations and hear that gas stations are empty all over the area. It’s often said on the news that water was the first thing that became scarce in grocery stores during these kinds of emergencies. What To Do If There’s No Gas in a Hurricane

Why does your car need emergency items?

In addition to the Hurricane Matthew-type disaster, this type of emergency can happen where you live. It may not be a hurricane causing all the problems. Recently, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the main freeway had an accident involving a semi-tanker full of dangerous chemicals and the main freeway was closed for hours on end. Emergency Items That Will Disappear First

The accident that triggered the tanker to roll resulted in the freeway being shut down and backed up for miles. The TV channel showed people parked and walking around their cars. Without a few extra diapers in the car, getting water, food, snacks, using the bathroom, or changing a diaper was impossible.

Emergency Items for Your Car

There have been car and truck accidents, snowstorms, ice storms, etc., and traffic is at a standstill, literally. I put this list together quite some time ago, but we all need a nudge to remind us to put a few things in a car should an emergency happen.

I am also putting together a “food-water” container. This can be called a Car Emergency Kit, emergency car kit or even a roadside emergency kit. Please tell me any ideas/items you would add to this list. We are here to help each other be prepared for the unexpected. Food Storage Moms Car Emergency Kit list (printable). Please remember your important documents and pet vaccinations. You will need them, I promise.

Emergencies or disasters can strike at any time, so having certain items in your vehicle can be lifesaving. Place items in a regular pack, backpack, gym bag, or other container. Be careful about storing items that may be damaged or compromised in extreme heat situations. This is what I have in the back of my Honda CRV. It’s secured and ready to use.

Car Emergency Items

Names and phone numbers of who to contact in an emergency
Battery-powered or crank-powered portable radio/extra batteries
Flashlight/preferably one with solar/crank/LED
Compass and maps: not everyone has GPS in their car or on their cell phones
Can of motor oil
Fire Extinguisher (5-pound ABC type)
Road Flares and/or orange cones Collapsible Pop up Traffic Cone
Rags/paper towels
Shovels – snow shovel and small spade to clear debris
Pocketknife
Tire pressure gauge
Toolbox/toolkit – be sure to have some screwdrivers, pliers, tow straps, and other basic tools
Window ice scraper and snow brush for your windshield and side windows
Tow rope
Duct Tape
Bungee cords
Waterproof matches
Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor
Car battery charger, jumper cables to jump-start your car, lug wrench to fit your car’s lug nuts, fully inflated spare tire, and a seatbelt cutter

Necessities for survival:

Water – snacks
Blankets – boots – warm socks – work and winter gloves
Jackets /sweaters
Emergency cash: approximately $50.00 in small bills
First Aid Kit
Extra antifreeze
Cell phone charger
Kitty Litter or sand for tire traction
Baby Wipes
Hand Sanitizer
Scissors/pens/pencils (not crayons-they melt)
Emergency toilet (#10 can, toilet paper, disposable bags, and tissues

Why do I need emergency items in my car?

Emergencies can happen unexpectedly while you’re on the road, such as getting stranded due to car trouble, stuck in a ditch, or being stuck in heavy traffic in severe weather conditions. Emergency items can help ensure your safety and well-being until help arrives.

What are the essential emergency items I should keep in my car?

Essential items include water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, a multi-tool or Swiss army knife, a blanket or emergency sleeping bag, a reflective vest, jumper cables, a portable phone charger, and a roadside assistance kit.

How much water should I keep in my car for emergencies?

It is recommended that you keep at least one gallon of water per person daily for drinking and sanitation purposes. I prefer 4 gallons per person per day. It would be best to have at least a three-day emergency water supply for each person in your vehicle. Water Storage: How Much Do You Need?

What type of non-perishable food is best for emergency kits?

Choose foods with a long shelf life that don’t require refrigeration or cooking, such as granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, canned goods (with a can opener), and meal replacement bars. Make sure to check and replace expired items periodically.

How often should I check and replenish my emergency kit?

It’s recommended that you check your emergency kit every six months to ensure that all items are in good condition and haven’t expired. Replace any expired items and replenish supplies as needed. What Are the 20 Basic Items in an Emergency Kit?

Do I need to customize my emergency kit based on location and climate?

When assembling your emergency kit, consider your location and the climate. For example, if you live in a cold environment, include extra blankets, warm clothing, and hand warmers. In a hot climate, include sunscreen, hats, and additional water.

Should I include any specific items for medical emergencies?

A first aid kit should contain basic medical supplies such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, tweezers, scissors, and pain relievers. In case you’re caused to be away from home for a few day, have any necessary prescription medications. Consider any specific medical needs you or your passengers may have.

Final Word

Please pray for the world right now and the situations going on everywhere. Please pray for our country and the people around the globe. May God bless you for being prepared for the unexpected. May God Bless this World, Linda

Prepare Your Family for Survival

Copyright Images: Car Maintenance Supplies AdobeStock_43619196 By Saracin, Car Breakdown Supplies AdobeStock_281295360 By SpeedShutter

The post Your Car Needs Emergency Items For Survival appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

What Vegetables Shouldn’t Be Planted Near Each Other

If you’ve been gardening for any length of time, you’re probably familiar with the concept of companion planting. These are plants that can help each other, even directly support each other, in a mutually beneficial way. Usually, one plant will require lots of one type of nutrient that the other doesn’t, or it can improve ... Read more

What Vegetables Shouldn’t Be Planted Near Each Other can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

Freeze-Dried Cheese: How to Use It (Recipes & Video Demonstration)

[…]

The post Freeze-Dried Cheese: How to Use It (Recipes & Video Demonstration) appeared first on The Survival Mom.

from The Survival Mom https://ift.tt/OmGj8LB

Saturday, April 27, 2024

38 Must-Have Prepper Items That Aren’t Food, Water, or Weapons

The post 38 Must-Have Prepper Items That Aren’t Food, Water, or Weapons appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness

Friday, April 26, 2024

The Top 10 Largest Duck Breeds in the World

With any livestock, picking the right breed is important for your happiness and also for your success, whatever it is that you might be doing. This is certainly true for ducks. If lots of meat is what you’re after, or you just enjoy having bigger birds around in your flock, you’ll be best served by ... Read more

The Top 10 Largest Duck Breeds in the World can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead

20 Genius Ways to Communicate When You Can’t Rely on the Usual Channels

The post 20 Genius Ways to Communicate When You Can’t Rely on the Usual Channels appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/Nu2vMeL

Every State Ranked: Discover America’s Most Popular Hunting Hotspots

The post Every State Ranked: Discover America’s Most Popular Hunting Hotspots appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/vbmxDEZ

27 Emergency Foods You Can Forage in the City

The post 27 Emergency Foods You Can Forage in the City appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/5Nl3AYQ

12 Quick Ways to Camouflage Your Shelter in the Wild

The post 12 Quick Ways to Camouflage Your Shelter in the Wild appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/ocW0emt

Cheap and Easy DIY Fire Starters That Every Prepper Should Know

Most people understand that the ability to get a fire going is one of the most fundamentally important survival skills to learn. But far fewer people actually understand how to build a fire or the different options for building one. To build a fire, there are three distinct steps you need to follow: You need […]

The post Cheap and Easy DIY Fire Starters That Every Prepper Should Know appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

from Ask a Prepper https://ift.tt/WALMv6U

Thursday, April 25, 2024

21 Realistic Things to Expect During a Global Economic Collapse

The post 21 Realistic Things to Expect During a Global Economic Collapse appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/9kCvNP0

Survive & Thrive: 15 Crucial Tips to Keep Your Family Safe in Any Emergency

The post Survive & Thrive: 15 Crucial Tips to Keep Your Family Safe in Any Emergency appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/HayoTQ1

14-14-14 Fertilizer: When and How To Use It

If you’re growing crops, a garden full of fruits and veggies or you’re just trying to keep your lawn the envy of the neighborhood, you’ve got to get your precious plants plenty of water and plenty of food. And when it comes to food, that can be a tricky puzzle. There are tons of different ... Read more

14-14-14 Fertilizer: When and How To Use It can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!

from New Life On A Homestead https://ift.tt/l09mDUR

MacGyver Would Be Proud: 15 Ways to Transform Everyday Items Into Survival Tools

The post MacGyver Would Be Proud: 15 Ways to Transform Everyday Items Into Survival Tools appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/95Mp0eD

24 Things That Really Happen During an EMP Attack

The post 24 Things That Really Happen During an EMP Attack appeared first on Simple Family Preparedness.

from Simple Family Preparedness https://ift.tt/bJZEWso

Have You Been Using Fake Honey?

If you think honey is your health’s ally, today’s article might come as a shock to you. Do you know those little plastic honey bear recipients on supermarket shelves? They might contain nothing but high-fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors and colors, industrial-grade glucose, and other horrifying compounds that could be damaging your internal organs. I […]

The post Have You Been Using Fake Honey? appeared first on Ask a Prepper.

from Ask a Prepper https://ift.tt/ZNrRFzB

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

How to Make the Perfect Chicken Dust Bath

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Have you ever found yourself staring at your chickens and wondering if there was something missing in their life? If they don't have a dust bath, then there is something missing!

Chickens need a good spa day just like the rest of us, and there's no better way to give them what they need than by providing them with a dust bath.

In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to make the perfect chicken dust bath that will have your chooks rolling around in pure delight. Let's get started.

Want to save this post for later? Click Here to Pin It On Pinterest!

What is a Chicken Dust Bath?

Are you a proud chicken owner or looking to become one? Either way, you may have heard of a chicken dust bath. But what is it exactly?

First, it's important to understand chickens don't actually take baths like we do, in water. They prefer to clean themselves with dust and dirt. They literally roll around in dirt, sand, or other fine materials.

Why do chickens do this? It turns out that a dust bath is actually an essential part of a chicken's hygiene routine. By rolling around in the dirt, a chicken is able to help remove excess oil, dirt, and parasites from its feathers and skin.

The importance of dust baths for chickens cannot be overstated. As they scratch and dig their way into the dirt, they create a small depression that becomes their personal spa spot. They flap their wings, roll around, and cover themselves in dust, creating a cloud that might make us humans sneeze but leaves the chickens feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Chickens need access to a dust bath all year round, regardless of the temperature or weather conditions. When it's cold outside, chickens will often huddle together inside the chicken coop, but they'll still need to be able to access their dust bath area.

Why Do Chickens Need a Dust Bath?

Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider adding a dust bath for your chickens if you haven't already.

To Control Oil

Chickens naturally produce oil on their skin and feathers, called sebum. Too much sebum can lead to clogged pores, and this can negatively impact the chicken's skin and feathers' health.

A dust bath, however, can help chickens keep their sebum levels in check. When they roll around in the dust, it absorbs the excess oil and dirt that the chickens may have accumulated on their feathers.

Parasite Prevention

Even backyard chickens are susceptible to a variety of parasites. These parasites can be a headache for chicken owners and have an impact on their chickens' health. Parasites like lice and mites can nest in a chicken's feathers, causing them to become irritated and itchy.

A dust bath can help prevent these pesky critters from taking up residence on your chickens by suffocating them in a suffocating cloud of dust. Chickens will instinctively seek out a dust bath when they are infested or feeling itchy, so if you notice your chickens rolling around more than usual, it's time to take action.

For Skin Health

Chickens' skin is incredibly sensitive, and prolonged exposure to damp or dirty environments can lead to a range of skin infections and diseases. A dusty environment, however, can help keep bacteria and fungi at bay, and the dry dust can help keep skin healthy.

A good dust bath routine can help prevent common skin diseases like bumblefoot, a painful foot infection that can be caused by damp or dirty living conditions.

A dust bath isn't just essential for chickens' physical needs; it's also vital for their social needs. Chickens are incredibly social creatures and will often engage in communal dust baths. This is incredibly cute to watch, as the chickens will pile on top of each other in a big fluffy ball, all squawking and grooming themselves in a show of solidarity.

An Escape from the Heat

Chickens are much more temperature-sensitive than humans, and extreme heat can be disastrous for them. A good dust bath can help chickens cool down by providing them with a shady, dry refuge from the heat. This is especially important for chickens in hotter climates or during the summer months when temperatures can soar.

It's Fun!

Chickens are curious and inquisitive creatures, and dust baths provide them with an opportunity to engage with their environment and exercise their natural instincts. Watching a chicken roll around in the dust with complete abandon is a joyous sight for sure – and a reminder of how simple pleasures can sometimes be the most important ones.

How to Make a Dust Bath: Step by Step Guide

You'll want to start by finding the perfect location. Your chickens are picky about their dust bath location, so choose wisely.

Make sure the spot is sunny and dry, but with the option of partial shade for those scorching hot days. And most importantly, avoid areas prone to erosion or getting muddy. Nobody likes a soggy dust bath.

You may also want to consider giving your chickens multiple dust bathing spots to choose from. This way, they can pick and choose their ideal location depending on the weather and their mood. Plus, multiple areas mean less crowding and more peace in the flock.

On that note, know that size matters. The area should be large enough to accommodate three to four chickens at a time, depending on the flock size. You can use crates, shallow boxes, plastic totes, feeding tubs, or even old containers or flower pots for containment.

Now that you've chosen your location and contained the area, it's time to fill it up with dirt. Not just any dirt will do. It needs to be loose and dry to maximize the dust bathing experience. We'll talk in more detail about the options for filling your dust bath next, but for now, know that pure dirt is essentially all you need.

Depending on the material you use to contain your dust bath, you may want to add drainage holes before you fill it. This will prevent the container from getting waterlogged or soggy if it rains. You may also want to consider building a cover over the dust bath area to keep it nice and dry. Don't go too crazy with this – you don't want too much shade – but this can help protect the dust bath from the elements.

What is the Best Material for a Chicken Dust Bath?

Sand and dirt are the most common choices for a chicken dust bath. They are readily available and provide a good medium for chickens to roll and scratch in. Sand is especially good for chickens who are prone to mites or lice because it is abrasive and can help to remove these pests from their feathers.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is another popular choice for controlling external parasites. However, you should use it with caution because its fine silica particles can cause lung irritation if inhaled in large amounts. A sprinkle or two in the dust bath area will do.

Adding peat moss to clay-based soil is also a good idea as it will help keep the dust bath dirt light and aerated, which makes it easier for chickens to move around in. Sulfur dust is an effective way to control external parasites and can also be added as an amendment to the dust bath mixture.

You can also add herbs like thyme, garlic, borage or mint to the dust bath. This will repel pests and make the dust bath even more effective.

When it comes to ratios, there is no set rule. You can experiment with different ratios to find what works best for your flock. A good place to start is with equal parts of sand and dirt, and then add other amendments as desired.

Keeping Your Dust Bath Clean

Take the time to do a quick check-up on your dust bath every now and then. Remove any manure, rocks, or other foreign objects that may have made their way inside.

You should also refill the bath with fresh sand and soil as needed. Chickens can be quite messy, flinging dirt and sand all over the place, so don't be surprised if you notice the level getting low. Keep it topped up for their leisure and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Creating and maintaining a clean dust bath is the key to keeping your chickens healthy and happy. Even if your chickens have already set to work creating their own dust bath areas in the run, it's not a bad idea to DIY one like this to keep everyone happy, healthy, and occupied.

So, grab your shovel and get to work!

Like this post? Don't Forget to Pin It On Pinterest!

You May Also Like:

The post How to Make the Perfect Chicken Dust Bath appeared first on Homestead Survival Site.

from Homestead Survival Site https://ift.tt/p3qtAPi