For many homesteaders, maximum efficiency is paramount, especially when it comes to raising livestock. Anything you can do that will save you time, effort, or money is to be implemented if you want to keep your sanity intact and your bank account in the black. Many turn to raising different species together when possible to ... Read more
The Do’s and Dont’s of Raising Sheep and Goats Together can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!
What’s in your first aid kit? Here’s the deal: Most of us have bandages and some Neosporin, maybe some rubbing alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide. That’s a great start. Keyword “start.”
Today, I want you to consider what you have in your hall closet or first aid kit, whether large or small. The power is out in your neighborhood and your entire city, or at least as far as you can see. There are no lights except the stars, and it’s 10:00 p.m. Yep, it’s called a blackout. There is no power or electricity anywhere.
You have walked across the street to see if the neighbors know what’s happening. No, their lights flickered off as well. Your home phone and cell phone don’t work. There is no internet, and there is no way to hear what has happened. Yes, the radio works, but it’s not telling us what happened in our little community, at least not yet.
Let’s say the power went out on Monday. It’s now Friday of the same week. There is no power. The gas pumps don’t work. I am sure glad I filled the car with gas on Saturday, I think to myself. I don’t need anything from the store, but my neighbors do.
They have driven into town, and the stores are all closed. It’s called a real power outage. No one knows when the power will come back on. Some neighbors become sick and have very little food or water stored, let alone simple first aid kit supplies.
I love this First Aid Kit. It will only hold smaller containers, but that’s okay. I have to rotate them often. It’s perfect for my car or on a pantry shelf. It would be great in my car as well. I had someone make me some new Printables for you to print out. I forgot to have her remove the Zantac, but life happens.
I bought this one: FIRST AID KIT
My experience, illustrated by my neighbors’ need for food and possibly prescriptions, helped prompt me to update a post I did almost three years ago about first aid kits.
I’m so glad I have 75 days of my 90-day prescriptions filled. Whew, that’s a relief. Some may not be so lucky. What, the pharmacies are closed? Of course, they are; they have no power and no internet. Plus, they don’t have any insurance information about us because the internet doesn’t work without power.
The pharmacies are closed because they are out of basic items that people could pay cash for. Besides, debit cards, credit cards, and EBT cards don’t work. I’m just giving you the heads-up here. Another reason we all need to store some small bills in a safe place is. The other day, Mark went to Smith’s Food King (Kroger), and there was a sign: Closed: Our Computers Do Not Work.
Please check your first aid kit supply today rather than tomorrow. What you have in your house today may be all you have for a week, two weeks, or a month. We all assume the power will come back on, but you get it. We need to be prepared for the unexpected.
The list below is probably much more extensive than most of us consider for a “First Aid Kit.” That could be true, but we have different priorities and needs. The list should be used as a guide and a means to get us brainstorming.
I’m probably over the top with first aid supplies, but that’s how I roll. Let me share the items I like to store, and please add yours to the list. We all use different things, but this will maybe help us think about what we may need to rotate or pick up before an unforeseen emergency happens. I think it will. May God bless our country and families as we deal with many issues.
Please review this list and add the items you and your family use. This is just a start for things that I feel are important. It is extensive and may be considered a full-fledged Emergency Kit that goes beyond first aid considerations.
But better to be overly cautious and best prepared. I will add other items when you let me know your suggestions. I’ve made some short comments in hopes it will prompt thoughts on your part regarding why YOU AND YOUR FAMILY might need the item for your health and safety:
UPDATED PRINTABLE: 2022 First Aid Kit
If you have pets, you need to consider what you will have available if they are hurt or sick.
If you have young children, you may need to consider having items to pass the time if the emergency situation lasts an extended period. The items could be books, games, puzzles, toys, and their favorite stuffed animal or blanket. Some paper, pencils, crayons, markers, coloring books, etc., are also helpful. You should also consider having each child carry some identification in case the family members get separated.
Young families should also consider purchasing more child-related items, such as snacks, burp rags, pacifiers, formula, nursing pads, and infant pain relievers.
My Favorite Medical Books: Dr. Alton’s Antibiotics and Medical Handbook. I know these first aid supplies may be a little over the top for most people, but what if the power is out for two weeks or more and our support infrastructure either wavers or fails?
Please take a few minutes today and review what you have in the home or car that will make you more secure than just a simple first aid kit. If you have taken some CPR, EMT, or CERT classes, you rock. Thank you, paramedics, doctors, and first responders. We will need you sooner rather than later. Just think about what’s in your first aid kit today, not tomorrow. May God bless this world, Linda
The post What’s In Your First Aid Kit? appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Rainwater harvesting is one of the best ways to save money on water and become more self-sufficient. But if you've looked into rain barrel systems, you know how expensive they can be. A single rain barrel costs $80 to $120.
Fortunately, you can build a simple rainwater collection system using materials you can find at your local hardware store—all for less than $100. The key? Using a 32-gallon trash can as the main reservoir. I found this setup on the Youtube channel, Vibrant Deals.
Want to save this post for later? Click Here to Pin It On Pinterest!
Here’s how you can build your own rain barrel system on a budget:
This DIY rainwater collections system is both affordable and customizable. You can always upgrade to a 50- or 55-gallon barrel later. For now, this 32-gallon setup is perfect for watering plants, washing hands, or minor outdoor tasks.
Watch the video below to see how it's done, and be sure to check out Vibrant Deals on Youtube.
Like this post? Don't Forget to Pin It On Pinterest!
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The post Cheap Rainwater Collection System Using Trash Cans appeared first on Homestead Survival Site.
Ways to Prep for Free Being prepared is more about skills and knowledge than about expensive stockpiles. I have seen folks spend a fortune on preparedness only to end up […]
The post 15 Ways to Prep When Strapped for Cash appeared first on Survivopedia.
When you’re starving in the wild, snake meat can mean the difference between life and death. But get it wrong, and it might just kill you faster than starvation. This […]
The post Eating Snake Meat – The Dos and Don’ts appeared first on Survivopedia.
What started with a handful of federal raids has now pushed Los Angeles to the edge. Since June 6, 2025, the city has been gripped by mass unrest after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents targeted multiple businesses suspected of employing undocumented immigrants. These were full-scale operations, carried out in broad daylight, in areas like […]
The post L.A. Is Just the Beginning appeared first on Ask a Prepper.
This is my friendly reminder about the 35 OTC medications you should store now. There are so many disruptions in our general supply chain that I felt it was essential to update this post and keep this issue in front of my readers. While you might not have given too much thought in the past about stocking up on medicine for a disaster, now might be the time to rethink that decision.
I keep adding to this list, so it’s more than 35, but you probably have some others I should add. Stay safe and stock up on those that work for you. Please check with your medical professional before using any OTC (over-the-counter) medications.
Just consider a traumatic event that cuts you off from going to the local pharmacy, a retail store with OTC medications, the doctor, the dentist, or even making a trip to the massage or physical therapist for much-needed treatment.
That could mean no prescriptions, no (much-needed) root canal, and tense, achy muscles. Talk about a world of discomfort and pain! Stockpiling several over-the-counter medications before a crisis occurs seems to make pretty good sense to me.
Here’s a look at 35 OTC medications you should consider storing that could help fight pain, nausea, earache, and more. Please keep in mind that I’m not skilled in the medical field. I highly recommend you consult with your medical professional about any drug interactions you may experience if you start using any of these medications.
Please remember that I am not a doctor, nurse, or anyone in the medical field. Please consult with your medical professional to make sure your OTC medications are compatible with your prescriptions and any health issues you may have.
FREE OTC Printable by Food Storage Moms
Aspirin is not only a fever and headache reducer but also reduces toothache pain, some swelling, and the inflammation that causes muscles to ache. Be careful not to give aspirin to young children with a fever; severe health challenges like Reye’s syndrome can occur. Also, be aware that aspirin is a blood thinner, and overuse can cause bleeding issues.
Tylenol is similar to aspirin in that it can relieve most pain or discomfort. You can even grind it into a powder and rub it on irritated skin for relief. Make sure you use the recommended dosages. Note that there are doses for different ages, so get some that will cover the needs of your whole family, including children.
Aleve will relieve most aches and pains and help reduce fevers and headaches. It even works on menstrual cramps and arthritis. While it might be similar to the previous two pain relievers, its benefits tend to have a longer-lasting effect.
While it might work better on headaches, Advil is believed to work more effectively on pain, fever, and inflammation. You don’t want to use any medicines past their expiration date.
Excedrin works great on migraines, tension headaches, and reduces fevers and colds. It even works on nasal congestion.
After a crisis, taking a dental trip might not be an option. Orajel is a numbing medication that will help reduce toothache pain and minor gum irritation. It also helps with sore throats and canker sores. It can come in handy until you can get professional help.
Keep in mind that if there is any chance that the oral pain could be an abscess, be sure to take the person to a dentist if they are open or an ER if not. With the jawbone so close to the brain, any infection in that body area needs immediate attention!
Tums and Rolaids will work to provide minor relief from heartburn and upset stomach by lowering stomach acid buildup. Be sure to test out various brands to determine which seems to work best for you and your family before you stock up on several packages.
When you’re faced with tummy issues during an emergency, this antidiarrheal drug is one you can’t go without. Pepto-Bismol works on stomach issues, including diarrhea, heartburn, stomach discomfort, gas, and nausea.
Pepcid AC works to prevent recurring stomach ulcers. It also covers heartburn and helps relieve gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is proven to work much more quickly than other similar meds.
Another valuable stomach reliever to have on hand would be Nexium. Not only will it fight stomach discomfort, ulcers, and heartburn, but it may also help heal acid damage to the stomach and the esophagus.
Another medication that helps fight diarrhea, Imodium will decrease the number of bowel movements and watery stool. You have to be careful that you or a loved one doesn’t get dehydrated from throwing up and having diarrhea at the same time.
We’ve had family members end up in the hospital after “going” at both ends for a few days. Like the adage says, “drink lots of liquids.”
If you’re suffering from constipation, Milk of Magnesia works as a laxative by adding water to your intestines and taking away discomfort. It also works on sour stomachs and heartburn.
The last stomach aid we discuss is not least on our list, Alka-Seltzer. This medication fights several problems, including stomach aches, inflammation, indigestion, pain, fevers, and even hangovers. This is the one my husband uses most often.
Mark swears by Alka Seltzer. His stomach can’t take raw onions or garlic, so if he has issues he does the “plop, plop, fizz, fizz” Alka Seltzer treatment.
Catching a cold or fever during or after a crisis without anything to fight it can be a real problem. Dayquil fights several symptoms, including cough, stuffy nose, fever, flu-like symptoms, body aches, and headaches.
If you’re having a rough time sleeping from all the coughing and mucus build-up in your throat, Mucinex DM could become the remedy you’re looking for.
Robitussin helps relieve constant coughing by reducing chest congestion. For diabetics, it sounds like there may be a diabetic version available. The brand called Halls has sugar-free lozenges that could provide some relief.
Sudafed PE provides short-term relief for nasal congestion while having pain-relieving benefits at the same time. It helps with the common cold and respiratory allergies.
You can get Sudafed behind the pharmacy counter by showing your driver’s license. They will ask you for your phone number as well, here in Utah. I believe you can get four packages per year per driver’s license here in Utah. Be sure to check this out in your location so you won’t be surprised at the store.
Nyquil works similarly to Dayquil by fighting the same symptoms, yet causes drowsiness and helps you sleep at night. Be cautious with any medications that indicate they can prompt sleep. You shouldn’t drive or run machines and equipment while using this medication.
Struggling with sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy and watery eyes? Zyrtec is an antihistamine that will work on all of those for much-needed relief. It’s also great for reducing rashes, like hives.
Claritin is another allergy relief medication that works similarly to Zyrtec. It depends on the patient to find which one works better than the other.
Benadryl fights symptoms such as rashes, sneezing or a runny nose, and itchy and watery eyes. It can also be taken to prevent vomiting, nausea, and dizziness. Benadryl is critical to have on hand for emergencies. Mark takes 1/2 a pill each morning to eliminate the urge to scratch patches on his stomach. Some people indicate it can cause drowsiness.
Allegra is another antihistamine that works in most minor allergy cases.
Aspercreme will help treat minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints.
If you are suffering from a yeast infection, ringworm, jock itch, or athlete’s foot, Lotrimin may provide the relief you’re looking for.
Cortisone 10 works great on bug bites, poison ivy, allergies, rash, and even eczema, by reducing the swelling, redness, and itching that may occur.
Everyone should have this type of medication in their med inventory to prepare for an emergency. If you’re suffering from a minor burn, wound, or cut, Neosporin will help keep bacteria from causing infections. It is suggested that for long-term use you steer clear of Neosporin and try one of the other two based on its contents.
Charcoal tablets help filter out undigested toxins and poisons that might have been eaten.
Anxiety, stress, and insomnia more than likely will keep you awake after a devastating crisis. Having a stockpile of melatonin, or other sleeping aids, can help you get the rest you desperately need and help you make better decisions.
If there were ever a radiation emergency, potassium iodide tablets could help the thyroid from taking on excessive radioactive iodine.
During a crisis, you want to ensure your body is getting all the electrolytes needed for your body to function properly. Electrolyte Powder This also ties into the discussion earlier about dehydration. Some of your body functions can shut down if you’ve lost a lot of your electrolytes.
Dramamine will provide relief from nausea, vomiting, or motion sickness.
You never know when you’re going to need something to stop significant bleeding. QuikClot might just save your life or reduce the bleeding until you get professional medical help. QuikClot If there is any way to get the person affected by the puncture or severe cut to the hospital or clinic after you’ve administered the necessary first aid treatments, do it. BleedSpot
Although technically not an over-the-counter medication, multivitamins will make sure you’re body is getting the right nutrients and minerals needed. During and after the emergency you’re probably not eating the most nutritious food. As we age, we need to consider supplementing our body’s needed nutrients with a variety of vitamins and minerals. Ask your doctor for advice regarding the most critical ones to take.
I recently wrote a post about vitamin D3 that you ought to check out.
Epsom Salt is another useful item to have, to reduce stress and relax the body. It sounds like the perfect solution to put in your next bath water after a crisis. Epsom Salt Many of my readers soak their feet in Epsom Salt to find relief for very sore feet.
I remember using it for cleaning pierced ears, disinfecting dishrags and sponges, and using it as a hand sanitizer. I try to get the 91% Solution.
You can use it to disinfect your toothbrushes and mouthguards. It’s great for disinfecting your nail or pedicure tools.
We must stock some diaper rash cream. We may not need it personally, but someone in an emergency shelter we share may have a need. Diaper Rash Cream
This is good for arthritis, according to a reader. Here is more information on it. What is Voltaren
This is a TEMPORARY fix until you can see a dentist. DenTekTemparin
This works great for so many skin rashes. Calamine Lotion or Zanfel (Poison Ivy, Oak & Sumac Wash)
OTC Printable by Food Storage Moms
These are many of the over-the-counter medications that you’ll want to have stored away in case of an emergency. Just be aware to rotate your supplies to keep your medical stock from going out of date.
If you can think of any other medications that provide relief during various types of emergencies, tell us about them. These are my favorite 35 OTC medications you should store if you use them. Note that I added a few more important items for a total of 41. May God bless this world, Linda
The post 35 OTC Medications You Should Store appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
I don’t think there’s anything nicer than home-canned fruit. Whether you’re preserving the hard-earned reward for your labor in the garden or you just don’t want to see that perfect produce you brought home go to waste, canning is the answer… And canned fruit has a special quality all its own. It’s just so yummy! ... Read more
How to Can Plums Step by Step can be read in full at New Life On A Homestead- Be sure to check it out!
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
With food prices climbing steadily over the past few years—thanks to inflation, supply chain issues, and rising fuel costs—it’s more important than ever to shop smart. Every dollar counts, and small changes in your shopping habits can add up to big savings over time.
Whether you’re feeding a large family or just trying to cut back on waste, these tips will help you save money on food without sacrificing nutrition or flavor. Many of them take time and patience, but it'll be worth it.
Yes, it’s old-school, but flyers and weekly ads still offer some of the best deals. Look for buy-one-get-one-free offers and deep discounts on meat and pantry staples. Combine these sales with coupons for extra savings.
Start by planning meals around sale items, then write out exactly what you need. This keeps you focused and helps avoid tossing random items into your cart. Bonus: You’ll waste less food and time.
Fewer trips to the store mean fewer chances to impulse buy. Try shopping once a week or even once every two weeks. When you stick to a routine, you’ll learn to plan better and save more.
It’s easier to resist junk food and overpriced snacks when you’re full. Eat a solid meal before heading to the store to help keep cravings (and your spending) in check.
Digital coupons and apps like Honey or Rakuten make it easier than ever to save. Just be careful to use them only on items you were planning to buy anyway—don’t let a coupon trick you into spending more.
Store brands often come from the same factories as the name brands but without the markup. Look for them on higher and lower shelves—they’re usually not at eye level.
The bigger container isn’t always the better deal. Always check the unit price (often printed on the shelf tag) to see which option actually costs less per ounce or pound.
Some “sales” are just clever signage. If an item is regularly priced at $5, then “2 for $10” isn’t a discount. Stay sharp and check the regular price.
Buying in larger quantities can save you money—if it’s something you use regularly and it won’t spoil before you can eat it. Think pantry staples like rice, pasta, or canned goods.
Pre-sliced fruits, shredded cheese, and bagged salads are marked up for the convenience. Buy whole ingredients and prep them yourself to save a significant amount.
Prepared meals are not only pricier, but often loaded with sodium and preservatives. Learning to cook simple meals from scratch can drastically cut your grocery bill.
A good reusable water bottle and a basic filter pitcher will save you hundreds of dollars a year. Plus, it’s better for the environment.
Soda, juice, and energy drinks are expensive and often unhealthy. Stick to water or make your own herbal teas at home for a refreshing, budget-friendly option.
Swap expensive cuts of meat for more affordable ones. Use beans or lentils to stretch meat dishes. Pasta, rice, and eggs can also help round out a meal without costing much.
Frozen produce is picked at peak ripeness and is often more affordable than fresh, especially out of season. It’s great for smoothies, stir-fries, and soups.
Sign up for your grocery store’s loyalty program. These cards often unlock instant savings, member-only coupons, and points you can redeem for cash back.
Don’t assume your usual store is the cheapest. Check local ads, store apps, or use price comparison websites to see where you’ll get the most bang for your buck.
It’s easy to misjudge weight and end up overpaying. Use the store’s scale to weigh items before putting them in your cart, especially things like grapes or apples sold by the pound.
Deli meats are often fresher, cheaper, and less processed than their pre-packaged counterparts. You can also buy exactly what you need, avoiding waste.
Mistakes happen. Items scan at the wrong price, deals don’t apply correctly, or you get charged twice. Stay alert during checkout and double-check your receipt.
Cooking in batches helps you use ingredients efficiently and avoid last-minute takeout. Make a few big meals and portion them out—this saves time, money, and stress.
A small herb garden on your windowsill or balcony can save you from buying $3 bundles of parsley every week. If you have more space, try tomatoes, lettuce, or peppers.
Vendors often lower prices near closing time to avoid hauling unsold produce back home. You might score some great deals on fruits and veggies.
Keep produce fresh longer by learning the best storage methods. For example, keep apples in the fridge, onions in a cool dark place, and herbs in a jar of water like flowers.
Fruits and vegetables are cheapest (and tastiest) when they're in season. Buying what's currently being harvested locally can cut costs significantly. Bonus: seasonal produce often travels a shorter distance, which means it’s fresher and more nutritious too. Keep a list of seasonal items handy so you know what to look for each time you shop.
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The post 25 Ways to Save Money on Food appeared first on Urban Survival Site.
Canning has been a trusted method of food preservation for generations, yet modern misconceptions often deter people from embracing this time-honored tradition. The Amish, known for their simple living and self-reliance, have perfected canning techniques without the need for modern gadgets or fear of food safety. In this article, we’ll debunk common canning myths using […]
The post Canning Myths Debunked by the Amish appeared first on Ask a Prepper.
I hope you try making my easy lemon orzo dish. You can eat it as is or make it a side dish. You can add a different protein or many different vegetables to it to add flavor and texture. I love the versatility of this tiny little pasta.
My gut feels an urgency to stock up on rice, pasta, lentils, and quinoa if your budget allows. Of course, you and your family need to like eating these food items. I will share recipes you can print in a folder in case we lose power.
You will need cookbooks and recipes that are simple to make. Please teach your kids and grandkids to cook from scratch. Thrift stores have great cookbooks with simple recipes. In hard times, we may not be able to make filet mignon on the grill unless, of course, you are raising your own beef.
In case you missed this post, How to Cook Orzo
I love this recipe because it requires so few ingredients, and I typically have them all on hand.
Grab a medium-sized pot, or in my case, a 12-inch frying pan, and melt the butter on low heat.
Add the uncooked Orzo pasta and sauté until slightly browned—it’s like toasting pasta in rich, melted butter. Cook for about 4-5 minutes.
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Add the liquid, simmer covered on low for about 15 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. I wish you could smell the onions and the garlic!
Cover and cook for 15 minutes on low until the liquid is absorbed. Add the lemon juice, kosher salt, and pepper to taste.
Add the fresh parsley right before serving. Serve as a side dish or a main dish. Enjoy.
I love the flavor of the orzo cooked in butter! You are welcome to cook the orzo in olive oil, especially if you feel it MAY be healthier. Note that it will give the final product a different taste. We are looking for that buttery flavor in this recipe!
This recipe tastes amazing as is with the fresh parsley! Adding or swapping for a different fresh herb would taste a little different, but could make for a different variation on this delicious recipe. If you decide to change, I recommend swapping the parsley with fresh thyme, basil, or dill.
What is so great about this lemon orzo recipe is that you can change it to your liking! Again, I love it as is, but everyone likes to customize it to their family’s liking. If you would like to add some cheese, I would recommend adding feta cheese or parmesan cheese. I think both would taste fantastic! The cheese will add additional saturated fat, which is good for those watching their calories, cholesterol, and fat intake.
Adding spinach would be a great option if you want to transform this easy lemon orzo recipe into a salad! Spinach has a very mild flavor which would still allow the scrumptious flavors of the lemon, butter, garlic, and parsley to be center stage. Spinach would also add some additional fiber and nutrition to the dish. I would recommend allowing the orzo to cook and then gently stirring in the spinach so that the spinach doesn’t wilt from the heat.
I highly recommend storing this lemon orzo in an airtight container in the fridge. If stored properly, it will last for about 3-5 days.
As mentioned above, I love the flavor of the orzo cooked in butter! If you want a lower-calorie option, cooking the orzo in low-sodium chicken broth would be a good option. It will give the recipe a slightly different flavor but still taste great. Using low-sodium chicken broth will eliminate some additional salt content since we already use kosher salt in the recipe.
If you decide to add some vegetables to this recipe, I recommend adding mild-flavored vegetables. Zucchini, peas, cucumbers, olives, or spinach would be great options! Creating a delicious lemon orzo pasta salad is a fun change!
The orzo in this recipe is NOT gluten-free. If this is a concern in your family, I recommend substituting white or brown rice for the orzo. As with any food allergy, I highly recommend reviewing the ingredients on any product that you use in this recipe or on any other packaging if you decide to add or substitute any additional ingredients.
I hope you enjoy this delicious, easy lemon orzo recipe! The flavors of lemon, butter, parsley, garlic, kosher salt, and pepper entice any crowd! I love how easy it is to cook orzo! It is as easy as cooking rice! Please let me know what you and your family think of this recipe and if you decided to make it with changes. It can be served as a side dish or main entree. I hope it becomes a go-to for you and your family. May God bless this World, Linda.
The post Easy Lemon Orzo appeared first on Food Storage Moms.