Posts Tagged Emergency Preparedness
A Backup of a Backup
Posted by enrique s in Organizing, Self-Reliance on December 22nd, 2009
Photo by Mocodragon
Backup my hard drive? How do I put it in reverse? - unknown
One of my coworkers had a near-meltdown last week when her computer wouldn’t recognize her thumbdrive. The thumbdrive contained all of her important files, and was her only copy. Now, I could have been a smartass and said, “What’s the problem? Just use your backup”, but my coworker is a nice person who’s helped me in the past, and I was in a good mood. We were eventually able to copy the files from the thumbdrive to a network drive, so the disaster was averted.
Learning the hard way
I was in a similar situation several years ago, but my files were not recoverable. I did have some backups of the files that were lost, but they weren’t the latest versions, so I had to partially reinvent the wheel, so to speak. The one thing that you can count on about electronic devices is that they will all eventually fail (Isn’t there a Murphy’s Law about this?). I’ve talked about my penchant for being prepared in previous posts (here, here, and here), and I learned my lesson the hard way for not covering all the bases when it came to my computer files.
Redundancy is key
If backing up your electronic files can be considered Plan A, then Plan B is to always have a second backup copy. Think of it as the belt-and-suspenders theory in practice. I always carry two thumbdrives, and I even copy the contents of these portable drives to my computer’s hard drive. On top of that, every week I make two backup copies of the files in the “My Documents” folder of my computer, so I’m pretty much covered in case both of my thumbdrives and my computer’s hard drive crash. You can’t be too careful.
Tools of the redundant
My two thumbdrives are both PQI Intelligent Sticks:
They both hold 4 gigs of data, and I barely use a quarter of the available storage space. There very tiny, about one inch long when closed, a half inch wide and 3/16 of an inch thick. I barely notice them in my pocket. These are my daily portable backups. They are very reliable, but I take no chances. The wear and tear from pocket carry compels me to replace them with newer versions each year. Fool me once…
For my weekly backups, I use two Western Digital My Passport external hard drives:
These are powered by the USB connection on my computer, and don’t require a separate power supply. This makes them a good option for laptops, too. I have a both 60GB and 80GB versions, which are both a couple of years old. I don’t replace these as often as the thumbdrives, since they don’t take the same daily beating. When it is time to replace them, I won’t buy the latest version. I’ll opt for something less than cutting edge, and save a few bucks. The cheapest that I could find was $64.99 for a 250GB version.
Automating the backup
I don’t have an automated backup, but instead do it manually each week. I’ll leave it to an expert to explain automation. Gina Trapani of the website Lifehacker put together this excellent guide to automatically backing up your hard drive.
Other backup options
Of course, my setup is “old school”, and there are many alternatives if you would rather opt for online storage. One is Carbonite, which is a set-it-and-forget-it offsite backup over the internet. Carbonite finds your files, and copies them to their secure servers. Other options include Amazon S3, Mozy, and Dropbox. I can’t vouch for any of them, since I’ve never used online backup. But the website Lifehacker also has a post which details the best online backup tools. Check it out here.
Whatever option that you choose for data backup, make sure you have another backup somewhere. Remember, belt AND suspenders.
For a humorous look at the subject, check out The Tao of Backup.
Share your disaster stories in the comments, so that we can all learn from them. What option have you chosen for data backups?
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Why You Need And Should Already Have An Emergency Kit. Although this post is not directly related to personal finance issues, it does have something to do with it in terms of your financial security. For a long time now, I have had emergency kits in my car and in my home in case I suddenly had to vacate the...... - T.A.M.E. The Clutter Critter Why does it always seem that the minute you delete a document or throw a piece of paperwork in the trash, THAT'S when you need it? And all those documents you save for years on end, you never need again in your entire career. Maybe it's just Murphy's law......
Self-Reliance Series #5C: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Communications, Lighting, and Tools
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 14th, 2009
Photo by Kecko
This is Part 5C of my self-reliance series. I hope that you’ve enjoyed the other parts. If you haven’t read them, you can do so by clicking on the following links:
Self-Reliance Series #1: A Personal Survival Kit (PSK)
Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit
Self-Reliance Series #3: An Automobile Survival Kit
Self-Reliance Series #4: My Every Day Carry (EDC)
Self-Reliance Series #5A: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Shelter, Water, and Fire
Self-Reliance Series #5B: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Food, Hygiene, Health, and Protection
All of the kits that I’ve described in the previous posts are great for when you’re away from your house. But what if you’re home when disaster strikes? I’ll let you in on some of the preparations that I’ve made in the event of an emergency.
I’m no Burt Gummer, but I have taken some steps to insure that my family will make it through an emergency. This covers a shelter-in-place scenario, and does not cover bugging out. I’ve broken Part 5 down into three sections because of the length. Part 5C covers Communications, Lighting, and Tools.
Communications - so the lights have gone off. Do you have a battery-powered radio? Good. When was the last time you checked the batteries? How about extra cellphone batteries? I haven’t tried Ham radio yet, but it’s a viable option for keeping in touch with the world. If your family is separated during the emergency, do you have a predetermined rendezvous location? I would practice beforehand to make sure everyone knows the drill. If all lines of communication are down in your area, perhaps a relative in a distant region could be a central point of contact for separated family members. Here’s a radio that has AM/FM and shortwave:
Lighting - there are some basic items that you should have at your disposal. Make sure you have a flashlight (I have many. Too many. Candlepower Forums is addictive), and plenty of fresh batteries. While kerosene lanterns work well, a battery-powered lantern is safer when small kids are underfoot:
We also use candles, but again, we’re careful about the flame. If you’re not used to being around fire, you may have a mishap. I’ve even known people who have hooked up Christmas lights to a car battery. Just make sure that you have a plan, and know where your lanterns are before the lights go out. You don’t want to be stumbling around in the dark.
Tools - one of the first tools that I bought when I moved into my house was a chainsaw. Unfortunately, it was an electric chainsaw. It wasn’t much use when the power was out. I’ve replaced it with a gas-powered model, so now I can tackle any fallen trees if a hurricane hits and the power goes out:
I also have axes and hatchets, along with hand saws. Shovels are good to have, as are hammers and screwguns. Again, make sure the batteries are charged before the lights go out. The one item that makes power loss a moot point is a generator. I haven’t invested in one of these yet, but I’m warming on the idea. Also, if you have natural gas heating, know where the shutoff is, and have a wrench that fits the shutoff valve. If you live in a cold climate, make sure that you have snow shovels and ice melt. If you shelter in the basement, you might consider having a jack, in case the upper floor caves in, and you can’t get out. And don’t forget the fire extinguishers!
So what have I missed? What things do you do differently?
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Self-Reliance Series #5B: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Food, Hygiene, Health, and Protection
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 13th, 2009
Photo by Editor B
This is Part 5B of my self-reliance series. I hope that you’ve enjoyed the other parts. If you haven’t read them, you can do so by clicking on the following links:
Self-Reliance Series #1: A Personal Survival Kit (PSK)
Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit
Self-Reliance Series #3: An Automobile Survival Kit
Self-Reliance Series #4: My Every Day Carry (EDC)
Self-Reliance Series #5A: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Shelter, Water, and Fire
All of the kits that I’ve described in the previous posts are great for when you’re away from your house. But what if you’re home when disaster strikes? I’ll let you in on some of the preparations that I’ve made in the event of an emergency.
I’m no Burt Gummer, but I have taken some steps to insure that my family will make it through an emergency. This covers a shelter-in-place scenario, and does not cover bugging out. I’ve broken Part 5 down into three sections because of the length. Part 5B covers Food, Hygiene, Health, and Protection.
Food - because you wouldn’t want to eat your dog, I recommend storing enough food to sustain you through an emergency. Skip the perishable items and frozen foods; we want the stuff with a long shelf life. Canned goods are easy to keep, just be sure to rotate them. Honey never goes bad. Other items that make the list are packages of tuna, which keep for a few years; nuts, which are calorie-dense and a source of good fat; jerky, which is probably loaded with sodium. Canning is another option to preserve perishable foods. If you can stomach it, pemmican lasts a long time. If you still have one lying around from Christmas, a fruitcake is an option, although as a last resort. We also have boxes of pasta, which is not a good option when water is being rationed. Try to stick with foods that don’t require water for cooking, or cooking at all for that matter. If you have frozen meat that’s going to rot, perhaps throw a barbecue for the neighbors. Better yet, keep that freezer packed tight; freeze water in empty soda bottles, which will keep the temperature down in the freezer. Only open the door when absolutely necessary.
I live in the suburbs, so hunting and trapping are out for me. If I really had to, I could shoot a couple of squirrels or rabbits. Whatever floats your boat. It would be a last resort for us.
Another option with a good shelf life are MREs. This stands for Meals Ready to Eat, and there are many varieties available:
You could also try the Mountain House brand that’s made for camping.
Hygiene - when calculating your water requirement, don’t forget to factor in hygiene. Keeping clean helps prevent the spread of disease. Stock up on cleaning supplies, bleach, toilet paper, paper towels, garbage bags, soap, toothpaste, etc. If the septic system is inoperable, make sure you have enough garbage bags to get rid of human waste. Or be sure your “latrine” is far away from any food preparation. In other words, don’t crap where you eat. Make sure that you have a shovel, and cover up any “deposits” that you make in the ground. Or, you could try the Luggable Loo:
Health - this is where I’m lacking. I can stop a nosebleed, and do know CPR. But that’s about it. I have no medical training, like most people. But I do keep enough band-aids, gauze, iodine, rubbing alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, Tylenol, Neosporin, and duct tape to give it a good shot. Don’t neglect this area in your preparations. Maybe pick up a book like this one:
Protection - this is probably the most controversial subject. While I wouldn’t worry about a zombie attack, I would be concerned about your neighbors. Do you let your neighbors know that you’re prepped, knowing that your supplies will be raided during an emergency? I’ve kept my mouth shut. Call it a sin of omission. There have been enough warnings in the past, be it 9/11 or Hurricane Katrina, that people have had ample time to get their act together. A starving person is a desperate person. Take precautions so that your loved ones have enough food and water to make it through the emergency. A baseball bat by the door is a good deterrent. So is a shotgun. Your choice. Cold Steel makes a bat called the Brooklyn Crusher. I think that says it all.
Next: Part 5C, which covers Communications, Lighting, and Tools.
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Self-Reliance Series #5A: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Shelter, Water, and Fire
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 12th, 2009
Photo by howieluvzus
This is Part 5A of my self-reliance series. I hope that you’ve enjoyed the first 4 parts. If you haven’t read them, you can do so by clicking on the following links:
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Self-Reliance Series #4: My Every Day Carry (EDC)
All of the kits that I’ve described in the previous posts are great for when you’re away from your house. But what if you’re home when disaster strikes? I’ll let you in on some of the preparations that I’ve made in the event of an emergency.
I’m no Burt Gummer, but I have taken some steps to insure that my family will make it through an emergency. This covers a shelter-in-place scenario, and does not cover bugging out. I’ve broken Part 5 down into three parts because of the length. Part A covers Shelter, Water, and Fire.
Shelter - obviously, this includes your house or apartment. Even though I’m not in a big hurricane area, I’m prepared for one. Tree branches or other debris can smash your windows to pieces. The flying shards of glass can become deadly projectiles. I’ve got pre-cut pieces of plywood that fit my windows, so I’m not running out to Home Depot with the rest of the crazies when the alert is issued. Make sure you label them! You don’t want to be screwing around in a gale trying to fit them to the correct window. These can be secured with screws into the siding. I’ve seen examples on the web where more permanent anchors are installed into the walls. I may explore this option. Other options are polycarbonate panels or aluminum shutters. The plywood was the more frugal choice. I also have plastic tarps that can be used to temporarily patch a hole in the roof. The largest tarp is an old 40′ x 20′ in-ground pool cover. My rope collection offers many options for securing the tarps. I have various sizes of nylon rope, manila rope, polypropylene rope, and lots of paracord. If you can improvise an interior room as a safe room, so much the better. If you can put it in your basement, better yet.
What if it gets cold? Make sure that you have plenty of blankets. A sleeping bag would help, too. You might even consider setting up a tent, so that you would only need to heat a small area. This one would fit in a living room:
Water - what will you do if the municipal water supply gets contaminated? I have several options. First, know where the shutoff valve is. You may be able to drain the last drops of clean water out of your pipes if it’s separated from the contaminated water. I keep enough bottled water to serve four people for a week. This is kept in old ice tea bottles that get rotated every six months. I tie this to the changing of the clocks for Daylight Savings Time. Water takes up lots of room, so this could be a challenge for an apartment dweller. You could store water under your bed in 2-liter soda bottles. Just no jumping on the bed!
I put several drops of bleach into the bottles to keep any nasties from growing in the water. After a few months, the water may taste “flat”. You can work around this by pouring the water back and forth in two cups. Keeping it out of sunlight will also inhibit the growth of nasty things.
If all else fails, and my bottled water is used up, I can filter and boil the water in my swimming pool. To really filter it well, you can use one of these:
Fire - how will you cook and boil water if the power is cut off? I’ve got a propane grill, and two extra bottles of propane in my shed. I can do a lot of cooking with the supplies I have. But what if I can’t get outside? A Coleman camp stove is a nice option:
Just be sure to keep it away from anything flammable. I also have a fire pit that I can cook over if need be. I keep a small quantity of firewood, just in case. Don’t neglect matches and lighters. If you’re limited to wood fires, make yourself some firestarters. Vaseline-soaked cotton balls are my favorite.
Next: Part B, which covers Food, Hygiene, Health, and Protection.
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Corporate Barbarian Links: Boston Massacre Edition
Another big Yankees-Red Sox series this weekend, and the Yanks started out in first place this time! What a difference a couple of months makes (This is where all of the Red Sox fans unsubscribe 
). Nothing wrong with a little friendly rivalry. Look, I even included a picture of Pudge! I know it’s a long season, and we’ll have to see the Sox in the playoffs. They even won on the 30th anniversary of the Thurman Munson Game. I remember Bobby Murcer had a big night against the Orioles after giving a eulogy earlier that day at the Captain’s funeral. And what a pitchers’ duel last night!
This week we’ll start with the guest posts:
Bob at Five Cent Nickel shows us how to calculate our real hourly wage. He factors in commuting time, overtime, and aggravation.
Karawynn at Get Rich Slowly is auditioning for a staff writing position. She takes us on a visit to the Island of Misfit Foods.
A.J. Clark is also auditioning at Get Rich Slowly. He’s documenting his journey to pay down his debt. He’s already made some good progress.
Now, on to the regular posts:
Jim at Bargaineering offers some things to do while you’re on furlough. I liked his suggestion about updating your resumé every three months.
No Credit Needed gave a close check of his medical bills after his kidney stone procedure. I can sympathize; kidney stones are brutal!
Jacob at Early Retirement Extreme talks about upcycling to turn waste into goods. He also welcomed readers from Survivalblog. Maybe they’ll read my Self-Reliance Series.
Blunt Money is looking for long-lasting clothing. I recommended Duluth Trading for casual clothes.
Five Cent Nickel discusses the fallacy of relative price evaluation. He says we need to look at actual dollar amounts instead of viewing things in a relative context.
David at My Two Dollars recycled some of his childhood toys for his relatives. It’s nice that some things get a second life.
Passive Family Income is breaking down his income goals into daily amounts. He’s made great progress already writing eHow articles.
Steve at Brip Blap sometimes finds his inspiration in low-brow topics. So do I. I love the Three Stooges.
Patrick at Cash Money Life is growing dependent on coffee, due to his new baby. You do what you have to do when it comes to midnight feedings. When he needs to quit the java, he can read this post.
Have a great weekend, and GO YANKEES!
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Self-Reliance Series #4: My Every Day Carry (EDC)
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 7th, 2009
This is Part 4 of my self-reliance series. I hope that you’ve enjoyed the first 3 parts. If you haven’t read them, you can do so by clicking on the following links:
Self-Reliance Series #1: A Personal Survival Kit (PSK)
Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit
Self-Reliance Series #3: An Automobile Survival Kit
I like being prepared in general, so carrying around some extra stuff is no big deal. Think of it as disaster insurance. This brings us to today’s topic: My Every Day Carry, or EDC. My EDC is comprised of the stuff that I have in my pockets whenever I leave the house. Some of the items might be familiar to you; others may leave you scratching your head. I’ll provide an explanation for them all. Without further ado, here’s my EDC:
Flashlight - I carry a Peak Matterhorn LED flashlight at all times. Not that I’m afraid of the dark, but working in a building with no windows to offer even a sliver of natural light has led me to take precautions. The power has gone off several times since I’ve been here, causing many of my coworkers to freeze in place, lest they trip over each other. Emergency lighting does provide a tiny amount of light, but I think it’s only good until the batteries discharge. The Matterhorn provides plenty of light in a small package that’s less than 3.5 inches long and about a half inch wide. This isn’t some cheesy Maglite that will be scratched up in a month; the Matterhorn’s paint is hard anodized. But don’t take my word for it, read an expert’s review: Peak LED Solutions “Matterhorn”
Leatherman P4 Squirt - I’ve mentioned this multitool in Part 1 of this series. It’s replaced the small Swiss Army Knife that I used to carry because it has pliers. It also sports a knife, wood and metal files, wire cutters, 2 slotted screwdrivers and 1 flat Phillips screwdriver, an awl, and a bottle opener for those times a car door or the edge of a table aren’t available. It’s only 2.25 inches long, so it fits easily in my pocket.
Whistle - this is attached to my keychain, and it’s very loud. I cover my ears when I blow into it. It’s a signaling device,and I’ve used it many times to summon my kids at the park. They know it’s dad when they hear the whistle. I mean, what other idiot blows a whistle? ;-) You can get a similar one here. There are many styles on that website; I chose this one because of its small size.
Small Metal Capsule -I suffer from migraines, and therefor I carry Advil around (actually, it’s store-brand ibuprofen, because I’m frugal). I can stash 4 round pills in one of these capsules made by Bison Designs. There are different sizes available, and you can use them to store a rolled up $20 bill if you like. This is also attached to my keychain.
Tweezers - I have kids, and kids get splinters. Lots of splinters. So I carry a set of Uncle Bill’s Sliver Grippers. These also attach to my keychain, and are less than 2.5 inches long, including the attachment for the keychain. They also let me take care of any rogue hairs between my eyes, lest I sport a unibrow.
Wallet - this is my second wallet. My big bi-fold wallet contains my PSK. This wallet holds my driver’s license, debit and credit cards, medical insurance cards, and a few other things. It’s called the L. A. Wallet, and you can get one here. It’s very low-profile, and I keep it in my front pocket. Be warned: this is no George Costanza wallet. The L. A. Wallet forces you to embrace minimalism. There’s limited room, but enough for the essentials.
P.S. Shopping at Countycomm can be very addictive to gearheads!
Titanium Credit Card Knife - I bought this because of the coolness factor. It’s a backup to the Leatherman. Made by Nemesis Knives, it’s the size of a credit card, and fits neatly into the outside slot in my L. A. Wallet. It even has a bottle opener!
Watch - I got this Citizen Eco-Drive watch for Father’s Day a couple of years ago, and I couldn’t be happier. I think my favorite feature is the alarm. It looks good, too.
Throw in a comb, handkerchief, and a cellphone, and there you have it - my EDC.
What do you carry around every day? Let’s here it in the comments!
Check out Part 5A: Prepping Your House for an Emergency
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Self-Reliance Series #3: An Automobile Survival Kit
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 6th, 2009
Photo by uberzombie
This is Part 3 in my self-reliance series. You can read the first two parts by following these links:
Self-Reliance Series #1:A Personal Survival Kit (PSK)
Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit
In order to get to my office, I need to drive my car (actually, it’s a gas-guzzling SUV). If your car has ever broken down (I’ve had several in my life), then you know why I’m packing all of this stuff. There’s no mass transit to take me to and from work. Those of you in the same boat might find some use in my Automobile Survival Kit. While some of these items are there more for convenience, most cover the emergency basics. For all of you fellow gearheads, this list is for you:
In the center console, I have:
- Vise grip pliers - I have another pair in my toolbox. This is a spare.
- Small crescent wrench - ditto on the spare.
- Can/bottle opener - for the obvious reasons.
- Another PSK in a small Altoid tin - in case I lose my wallet.
- Gerber Infinity flashlight - small with a long run time. Space is an issue.
- 4 in 1 rescue tool - for cutting through seatbelts and breaking the windshield.
- Tire pressure gauge - keep those tires inflated! It helps your fuel economy.
- Purell hand sanitizer - in case water is in short supply. Can also be used as a fire starter.
- Bic lighter - I need to light my Rocky Patels with something.
- Coughlan’s waterproof matches - in case the lighter doesn’t work.
- Tums EX - for an upset stomach.
- Local street map - I don’t own a GPS. But I can read a map.
- Pencil - for writing things down.
- Earplugs - in case I need to take a nap.
- Small stapler - my car is my office on wheels.
- Small lint brush - gotta try to look sharp.
- Wet Ones wipes - quick cleanups when water isn’t available.
In the glove box, I keep some convenience items, such as:
- Salt, pepper, sugar, and Equal packets
- Ketchup and mustard packets
- Napkins
- 2 packages of peanuts and a couple of Slim Jims
- Tea bags and coffee bags
Stuffed under the seats in the back, I have these items:
- First aid kit
- Leather-palmed work gloves
- Tea candles
- Assorted hose clamps
- 4 disposable ponchos
- 4 mylar emergency blankets
- 4 flashing red markers
I also have an old Jansport backpack, which contains:
- A BIG knife, like this one: Becker Combat Bowie - a big knife makes for easier chopping.
- Sierra saw - for cutting small branches to help make a shelter.
- Nalgene polycarbonate bottle - for drinking water.
- Olicamp space saver cup - can be set up over a camp stove for boiling water. It nests with the water bottle.
- Potable Aqua tablets - water purification. Don’t use if you have a thyroid problem.
- Esbit folding stove - solid fuel stove which folds flat.
- Campsuds - a biodegradable solution that has many uses.
- Mil-Spec poncho - in case it’s raining when your car breaks down.
- Deerskin work gloves - to protect your hands.
- Jute twine, nylon twine, nylon rope, fishing line - you can never have enough cordage.
- Soda can stove and alcohol - a lightweight DIY project. Here’s a link to many variations: Soda can alcohol stove links
- Toothbrush and toothpaste - hygiene.
- Small roll toilet paper - when leaves are not an option.
In addition to this backpack, I have one of those drawstring bags that contains my Cody Lundin-inspired emergency kit. The whole thing fits in the Jansport backpack:
- Leatherman Wave multitool - many tools in a small package. Everyone needs a multitool.
- Mora Craftsman knife - an inexpensive, easy-to-sharpen, carbon steel knife. I have many of these all over the house.
- Gerber Infinity flashlight - a small, long-running LED light that uses one AA battery.
- Platypus water container - in case you have to haul water back to the car. Folds flat for easy storage.
- Sportsman’s blanket - a heavier-duty version of the mylar space blanket.
- Mylar emergency blanket - small, fits in your pocket.
- 2 contractor garbage bags - can be used to make an expedient sleeping bag.
- 2 Tyvek envelopes - can be filled and used as pillows.
- 3 Reynolds oven bags - extra water carriers.
- Ziploc freezer bags in various sizes - many uses.
- Drinking tube - to get that last drop of water.
- Dental floss - strong, small, many uses.
- Purell hand sanitizer - when water is scarce.
- Band aids - for small cuts.
- Tincture of iodine 2% - an antiseptic.
- Small sewing kit - the kind you get in hotels.
- Signal mirror - to get people’s attention if you’re stuck. Learn how to use it before disaster strikes.
- Orange surveyor’s tape - for marking a path through the woods, Hansel and Gretel style. Keeps you from walking in circles.
- Bandanna - a head cover, sling, etc.
- Duct tape - 1,001 uses.
- 100 feet of orange paracord - very versatile, can be used for stringing up your tarp. The internal strands can be separated for a smaller diameter fastener.
- Coughlan’s waterproof matches - fire.
- Sparklite firestarting kit - fire.
- ACR whistle - signaling your position if you’re trapped in the car. get a pealess whistle that works underwater.
- Magnesium firestarter - fire. Magnesium burns at over 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Shave some off the block onto wet wood, and start a fire.
- Mini ferrocerium rod - fire. This throws off lots of sparks.
- Scripto lighter - adjustable flame height, unlike the Bic.
- Vaseline-soaked cotton balls - great homemade tinder. Will light up even when wet.
- Charcloth - old pieces of denim jeans turned into a charcoal-like state. I’ll post a how-to on making charcloth in the future.
- Fatwood shavings - these can be purchased. Sometimes sold as Maya Dust. It’s the sap-engorged heartwood from a pinetree stump.
- Silva compass - learn how to use a compass. It’ll be a lost art. What do you do when your GPS batteries die?
- Wool cap - to keep your head warm.
- Krazy glue - another multiuse item.
- Fresnel lens - for magnification. Aids in the removal of splinters.
Last but not least, I have the following stuff in the back of the SUV:
- Toolbox - this holds everything I need for a quick repair.
- Jumper cables - everyone should have jumper cables in their car.
- Tire repair kit - coupled with the fix-a-flat, I can patch a leaky tire.
- Fix-a-flat - see above.
- Air pump - you need to be able to inflate the flat after it’s been patched.
- WD-40 - if you want it to move, use WD-40.
- Duct tape - if you don’t want it to move, use duct tape.
- 2′ x 3′ piece of plywood - a stable platform for a jack.
- 8′ x 12′ plastic tarp - for wrapping up my victims. Use the duct tape to muffle their screams. Just kidding. Keeps you dry while changing a flat tire in the rain.
- Toilet paper - I’m not keen on using leaves.
- Paper towels - for cleaning up.
- Electrical tape - for small repairs.
- 6 bottles of water - don’t get dehydrated. Always carry water.
- Mason’s twine - cheap and strong cordage.
- Polyester blanket - to keep you warm if your car gets stranded.
- Ice scraper/snow brush - for the winter.
- Towel - if you read Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, you know you should always bring a towel.
- Motor oil - a car’s lifeblood.
- Antifreeze - for when your car overheats.
- Coveralls - keep you clean when changing a tire.
- Boots - for the snow/rain/mud.
- Sneakers - in case you have to leave your disabled car and walk to your destination.
I also carry a change of clothes appropriate for the weather. I’d like to add a few things, like road flares and towing straps. Remember to replace all expired food and medication on a regular basis. What else have I missed?
You can read Part 4 of the self-reliance series by clicking on the following link:
Self-Reliance Series Part 4: My Every Day Carry (EDC)
Follow me on Twitter: CorpBarbarian
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Self-Reliance Series #5A: Prepping Your Home for an Emergency: Shelter, Water, and Fire Photo by howieluvzus This is Part 5A of my self-reliance series. I hope that you've enjoyed the first 4 parts. If you haven't read them, you can do so by clicking on the following links: Self-Reliance Series #1: A Personal Survival Kit (PSK) Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival...... - Self-Reliance Series #4: My Every Day Carry (EDC) This is Part 4 of my self-reliance series. I hope that you've enjoyed the first 3 parts. If you haven't read them, you can do so by clicking on the following links: Self-Reliance Series #1: A Personal Survival Kit (PSK) Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit Self-Reliance Series #3:......
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Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit Photo by 96dpi This is Part 2 of my self-reliance series. I talked about my Personal Survival Kit in Part 1. This post will not address the best anti-virus software, how to overclock your computer, or how to climb the corporate ladder. I like to be able to take......
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Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 5th, 2009
Photo by 96dpi
This is Part 2 of my self-reliance series. I talked about my Personal Survival Kit in Part 1. This post will not address the best anti-virus software, how to overclock your computer, or how to climb the corporate ladder. I like to be able to take care of myself, and since I’m at the office for most of the day, I keep some supplies in my desk at work. They actually take up very little room. Because I try to go paperless as much as possible, room in a filing drawer is easy to find. Call it my Office Survival Kit. Here are the items, in no particular order of importance:
Packable backpack - this folds flat and sits in the bottom of the drawer. A backpack allows you to keep your hands free if you have to vacate the building.
Assorted change - if you’ve ever been stuck in the office with the munchies, you know why you need spare change: the vending machines.
2 pouches Starkist Tuna - tuna is high in protein, and this will sustain you overnight.
2 packages of Planter’s peanuts - in case the vending machines are broken. Nuts are high in fat, and are very calorie-dense.
2 packages of Ramen noodles - the old, cheap, favorite of starving college students everywhere.
6 bottles of water - in case the office water supply gets contaminated. Don’t eat protein without drinking water. You’ll strain your kidneys.
First Aid Kit - your basic kit in a plastic box, purchased from CVS.
Matches - especially if you’re a smoker.
Pelican 2AAA Mitylite - don’t get caught in a dark building without at least one flashlight. Make sure you rotate the batteries so that it actually produces light when you need it. Better yet, a hands-free option like this headlamp would be great.
Leather-palmed work gloves - in case you have to dig your way out, so you won’t cut up your hands.
Purell hand sanitizer - if the water doesn’t work, you’ll need to clean your hands with something.
Crowbar - to get stuck doors unstuck. ;-) Think of your coworkers trapped in an elevator.
Soda can stove - this runs on alcohol, and allows you to boil water for Ramen noodles, tea, or Cup o’ Soup.
Alcohol - the rubbing kind. Fuel for the stove, plus an antiseptic.
Work boots - a cheap pair purchased at Wal-Mart. Better protection for your feet than dress shoes.
Sweatshirt - a fleece sweatshirt for those cold nights at your desk.
Fleece cap - this will keep your noggin warm overnight.
Duct tape - for silencing noisy colleagues. Just kidding. Another multi-use item.
Franklin Planner Kit - these are items that I keep in an old zippered Franklin Planner binder like this one:
- Swiss Army Knife - many uses, not just as a knife. Has screwdrivers, scissors, a saw, and even a toothpick. Check this one out.
- Bic lighter - something to light the tea candle with. Or a Macanudo.
- Tea candle - small, produces a fair amount of light. Better than sitting in complete darkness when your flashlight dies.
- Mylar space blanket - if the power is off in the office, then chances are the heating system isn’t working. These space blankets are about the size of a deck of cards, and will help you retain body heat.
- Reynolds oven bag - the water carrier of last resort. Folded flat, it takes up almost no room.
- 2 contractor garbage bags - these have many uses. You could slit open the bottom of one, and tape it to the other to form a primitive sleeping bag.
- Heavy duty aluminum foil - can be used to form an expedient cooking vessel to boil water in.
- Flosscard - dental floss has many other uses besides cleaning your choppers. Can be used for sewing ripped clothes.
- Plastic zip ties - many uses for these, too.
- Small binder clips - fasteners.
- Medium binder clips - more fasteners.
- Super glue - 1,001 and one uses.
- Swim goggles - if the building is on fire, will protect your eyes from the smoke and ash. Think 9/11 and the people covered in ash on the street.
- Bandanna - can be soaked in water and tied around your head in a hot building, or used as a sleep mask.
- Handkerchief - can be used for first aid as a dressing, or for blowing your nose.
- Band aids - for minor cuts.
- Dust mask - again, for building evacuation. I use a cheap one made for painting. Or you can try this high-tech version.
- Wet Ones wipes - sanitizers.
- Tums EX - for an upset stomach.
- Immodium - for a REALLY upset digestive system. Diarrhea hastens dehydration.
- Assorted change - again, for the vending machines.
- Extra credit card - for online shopping. No, seriously, this is an afterthought, as I carry this planner with me on business-related car trips, too. It’s a backup.
- Copy of information sheet - has vital phone numbers.
So, that’s what I stash in my office. After seeing and reading about what people went through during the World Trade Center attacks, I didn’t want to be caught short. I’m sure that I’m missing some things, as this is a work in progress. For more reading on assembling these kits, or preparing in general, head on over to the Equipped to Survive forums. A good book to read is When All Hell Breaks Loose by Cody Lundin.
Are you a preparedness junkie? What do you keep in your desk besides pencils and paper clips?
You can read Part 3 of the self-reliance series by clicking on the following link:
Self-Reliance Series Part 3: An Automobile Survival Kit
Follow me on Twitter: CorpBarbarian
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Self-Reliance Series #1: A Personal Survival Kit (PSK)
Posted by enrique s in Self-Reliance on August 4th, 2009
Tied in with my interest in frugality is my interest in protecting my loved ones and myself. I became interested in emergency preparedness about seven years ago when I stumbled upon the Equipped to Survive forum. I learned many valuable tips about survival and preparedness, stuff that I had never thought about. So, for the uninformed, I’d like to start a series that covers the basics of emergency preparedness. Part 1 will cover the Personal Survival Kit, or PSK for short. I’ll show you how to build your own, and how to tailor it to your needs.
Why Do I Need This?
The reason for carrying all of this stuff is simple: you may need it. Ever get stuck in an unfamiliar place when the power goes out? I bet you wish that you’d had a flashlight. Paper cut in the office? I wish I had a band aid. Button fall off your shirt before the big meeting? I should have carried a needle and thread. Due to my stubborn, thick-headed-German nature, I like to be able to take care of myself. I’ll show you how to carry all of this essential stuff in a package that will fit in your pocket.
The Basics
On my person, at all times, I have my PSK. It’s small enough to take anywhere, and looks like a wallet. In fact, it is a wallet. A typical, unobtrusive, bi-fold wallet. It covers several areas of preparedness, including Shelter, Water, Fire, Tinder, Signaling, Cordage, Medical, and Money.
Shelter - for shelter, I have a large garbage bag folded up and slipped into the dollar bill compartment. This can take the form of a sun shade, a seat for wet ground, or a poncho if I cut holes in it. I can also use it for a garbage bag.
Water - I keep a Reynolds Oven Bag as a water carrier. It’s the kind that you cook turkeys in. Some people use a plain condom. To each his own. I have a small wire tie from a bread bag to secure the top when it’s filled with water.
Fire - why do I need a fire making source? Why not. You never know when you’ll be stranded somewhere when the power goes off. I carry a small ferro rod, and a piece of hacksaw blade to use as a striker. It throws off a good amount of sparks, enough to start a fire.
Tinder - if you want a fire, you need something to burn. I carry a small cotton and wax tinder that came with a Sparklite military firestarter. Here’s a picture. It’s one of the eight pieces of fluffy stuff in the middle:
I also have a small piece of wax paper as a backup.
Signaling - for signaling, I have a small, flexible mirror that scratches easily. I also have a small LED flashlight. It’s tiny, like this one:
It’s come in handy many times.
Cordage - this refers to anything that can be used for securing two things together. I carry one of those FlossCards that you get from the dentist. Dental floss is very strong, and has a variety of uses, including sewing thread. I also carry about a foot of duct tape wrapped flat around itself, some sewing thread in black and white, a few sewing needles, and a couple of safety pins.
Medical - I have kids, so therefor I carry band aids. Also a small packet of Neosporin for scrapes. These items need to be checked and rotated. I guess I could use the sewing needles to stitch a bad cut, Rambo-style.
Money - I never want to get caught without some cash in my pocket, and with my PSK, I don’t have to worry. I keep about $50 in there, along with some quarters for vending machines. You never know when you’ll need exact change.
Miscellaneous Stuff - I also have a Pocket Wrench, which I’ve found useful. It doubles as a small prybar:
I carry around a couple sheets of Rite in the Rain waterproof paper, and a golf pencil:
I also have a small piece of paper with the phone numbers of our doctors, the nearest hospital, and the poison control center typed on it. A button compass can come in handy, if you ever need to know which direction to go. I also have a small magnifying lens, which is about the size of a credit card.
A Barbarian with No Knife?
Not so fast. In addition to my wallet kit, I carry a larger flashlight, a whistle, and a small multitool from Leatherman:
It’s got a knife blade, along with a file, screwdrivers, and pliers. It’s tiny, a little over two inches long.
Waah! I Don’t Have the Time to be Prepared!
Many of you will whine, “I don’t have the time to put this stuff together.” If you’d like a great, ready-made kit, how about the Doug Ritter-designed Pocket Survival Pack? It’s made by Adventure Medical Kits, and sold through Amazon (what isn’t these days?). Click on the picture for a full description:
I hope that this post has inspired you to think about preparing yourself for an emergency, or even just an inconvenience like a button falling off. You can read Part 2 in the Self-Reliance series by clicking the following link:
Self-Reliance Series Part 2: An Office Survival Kit
Subscribe by clicking here.
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- Self-Reliance Series #3: An Automobile Survival Kit Photo by uberzombie This is Part 3 in my self-reliance series. You can read the first two parts by following these links: Self-Reliance Series #1:A Personal Survival Kit (PSK) Self-Reliance Series #2: An Office Survival Kit In order to get to my office, I need to drive my car......
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