Simple No Grid Survival Projects Book : The Beginner's Friendly Handbook, Skills & Preparedness Guide for a Disaster Ready Home

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Simple No Grid Survival Projects Book

The Beginner’s Friendly Handbook, Skills & Preparedness Guide for a Disaster Ready Home

Kingsley Theo

Copyright © 2022 Kingsley Theo All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Printed in the United States of America

Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................... 1 Chapter 1: Projects on Lighting When You Have No Electricity ............................. 2 Project 1: Turn Your Car into a Generator ............................................................ 2 Project 2: How To Build A Solar Bottle Bulb ........................................................ 4 Project 3: DIY Solar Battery Charger.................................................................... 13 Project 4: How to Set Up A Solar Power System ................................................ 16 Project 5: How to Store Petrol/Gasoline ............................................................. 20 Chapter 2: Projects on Water When the Powers is out ......................................... 25 Project 6: How to Construct a Device That Collects Rainwater ........................ 27 Project 7: How to Make A Simple DIY Stand Point Well .................................. 35 Project 8: How to collect Water from a Surface Source .................................... 45 Chapter 3: Projects on Water Purification ............................................................. 54 Projects 10: Water Filtration .................................................................................. 54 Project 9: Purifying Water by Boiling .....................................................................60 Project 10: Water Distillation at Home ................................................................... 62 Chapter 4: Food Preservation Projects ................................................................... 65 Project 11: DIY Method for Smoking Meat..........................................................66 Project 12: Garbage Can Root Cellar DIY ............................................................ 72 Project 13: How to Make your Dill Pickles .......................................................... 79 Project 14: The No Power Refrigerator ............................................................... 82 Chapter 5: No Grid Cooking Projects ..................................................................... 87 Project 15: How To Build A DIY Rocket Stove Oven .......................................... 87 Project 16: How to build a solar oven .................................................................89

Project 17: How to Get Wood and Let It Dry ..................................................... 92 Chapter 6: Projects on ............................................................................................ 98 Superfood Survival Food......................................................................................... 98 Project 18: How to make this super food - HARDTACK ................................... 98 Project 19: Superfood Survival Recipe ................................................................... 100 Chapter 7: Projects on Free Heating and Air Cooling System Project ................ 104 Project 20: How to Get Started with the Free Heater ...................................... 104 Project 21: How to make a non-compressor air conditioner............................. 110 Chapter 8: Toileting ................................................................................................ 112 Project 22: Easy Steps to Make a Composite Toilet ........................................... 112 Chapter 9: Medical Survival Skills.......................................................................... 115 PROJECT 23; HOW TO STOP BLEEDING?....................................................... 115 Project 24: How to Check Airway, Breathing and Circulation ........................ 122 Project 25: How to do CPR ................................................................................ 127 Project 26: How to Splint a fractured Leg ......................................................... 136 Project 27 : How to Put Together a First Aid Kit for Your House ................... 140 Chapter 10: Home Security .................................................................................... 147 Project 28: Laser Security System Alarm DIY ................................................... 147 LONG TERM NO GRID SURVIVAL PROJECT ..................................................... 151 Chapter 11: Projects on Growing and Sourcing for Food ...................................... 152 Project 29: How to Start a Garden .................................................................... 152 Part 1: Choosing a Garden Style ......................................................................... 152 Project 30: How To Make A Homemade Organic Compost For Your Garden160 Chapter 12: Animal Husbandry ............................................................................. 169

Project 31: Raising chickens ................................................................................ 169 Project 32: How to Hunt ..................................................................................... 172 Project 33: Foraging ........................................................................................... 180 Edible Plants in the United States .....................................................................182 Edible Plants in UK ............................................................................................ 184 Edible Plants in Germany .................................................................................. 186 Project 34: Trapping for Game .......................................................................... 188 Conclusion ..............................................................................................................195 A Note from the Author .........................................................................................197

our way. If you even want to live off grid, these projects are perfect for you.

Introduction

These projects include super foods and

The last thing you want during dark time s

survival skills and hacks to keep your

is depending on others for basic needs.

loved ones well fed and safe during crisis

According to Congressional EMP, a lot of

and dark times. These projects are suited

people will lose their lives if society collapses.

for those who want to save much, rather

And the only way you can

than the very wealthy that do not care

survive this kind of country -wide collapse

about the bills.

is by becoming self -sufficient on your own property.

You don’t have time? We understand that too. These projects do not require time to

In this book, we are going to show you

build. Some of these projects take a few

more than 35 Projects you can easily do

minutes to an hour to put together,

yourself with step by step instructions. Each project comes with

allowing you to work on easy projects in

colored images

your spare time.

and a list of materials needed for each project. You can easily purchase any of

With that said, let's dive right in.

these materials online or at a nearby DIY Hardware shop. The best part about this project is that they are going to make you independent and self-sufficient on your own property. There’s

an

extraordinary peace and

accomplishment

when

you

produce

everything you need on your own. This book also has home projects that everyone should know to be safe and to protect their families in the time of economic crisis, especially in long term black out, riot, hyperinflation, hurricanes, or other unforeseen events that may come

1

your property has stairs. These exist in our

Chapter 1: Projects on

home for daily usage, but staircases can be

Lighting When You

particularly dangerous when there is no light at all.

Have No Electricity

And to prevent this from happening

Water should always be the first resource used in an emergency, in my opinion.

further, have an s0lar installation in your

In

house. With this, you become more self-

contrast, in a grid-down situation, you

sufficient.

must be able to see to safely get the items you prepared. As a result, I put lighting as

With that said, let us look at how we can

the top category. Lighting will be crucial as

make our own DIY lighting system in a no

you carry out your objectives.

grid situation.

I advise you to have a variety of lights. I

Project 1: Turn Your Car

adore solar and battery -powered lighting since

they

are

into a Generator

comparatively secure.

Candles with portable holders are an

How to turn your car into a generator

excellent backup option as well, but if you use these kinds of lighting, keep a fire

This is a must have system, if you find

extinguisher

yourself in areas with low supply of

on

hand. No need to

compound an already urgent situation.

electricity

If you need to travel around the house,

With this, you are able to power your

carry some light that is simple to carry with

laptops, cellphone, drills, printer, monitor,

you.

fan etc.

Have some stationary, bigger, brighter

Equipment

lights as well, such as while you're eating

● ●

or playing games at a table. Having some light that you can move around while

Power inverter (500 watt) A car

Components

keeping your hands free, like a headlamp, ● ● ●

can also be handy. I also advise having some battery -operated lights that don't need to be carried around if

2

Battery clip Cables 12v DC adapter plug

Steps 1. Connect your negative cable to the negative terminal of the inverter.

5. If it doesn't come on, turn your volume ignition to the accessory position.

2. Do same for the positive terminal.

6. Now you can power your laptops, cellphone, drills, printer, monitor, fan etc. 3. Then attach your negative clamp to the negative terminal of your battery.

7. You could also power your work tools. Also your positive clamp connect to the positive terminal of your battery 4. Turn on your inverter, by pressing the button in front

3

8. You can either use the battery clamps or

3. GALVANIZED STEEL SHEETS 10

the DC adapter plug; they both work in the

BY 10 INCHES

same way. For heavy duty equipment you can use the 1000 watts inverter. This inverter is a great device to have and it's not that expensive. You could get that at the cost of 49$ or more.

4. BOTTLE WITH CEMENT

Project 2: How To Build A Solar Bottle Bulb HOW

TO

BUILD AND INSTALL

SOLAR BOTTLE BULB 5. PLASTIC SODA BOTTLE( 1.5

ITEMS REQUIRED

-

2LITRES) 1. 2 CIRCULAR GUIDE PATTERNS

6. GLUE GUN WITH SIKA RUBBER 2. BATTERY POWERED DRILL

SEALANT

4

7. RIVETER

12. CHISEL 8. RIVETS

13. PENCIL 9. WORKING BOARD

14. CURVED METAL SHEET CUTTER 10. SAND PAPER

11. HAMMER

5

HOW TO BUILD SOLAR BOTTLE

smaller circle in the center of the

BULB

circle, using the smaller guide.

first

STEP 1

Use the bigger circular guide which must fit the circumference of the bottle to draw a circle on the sheet. The center of the guide should be on the crest of the galvanized sheet. The nice thing about having guides is that you do not make mistakes. It is good STEP 2

to use thick cardboard or a thick kind of plastic for the guide.

Use the chisel to cut through the first circle, then use the steel cutter to cut it out. It is important to use a curved type, because if you use the straight cutter, you won't be able to cut the curve correctly.

Once you have the circumference of the bottle on your steel sheet, trace out a

6

STEP 3

STEP 4

Cut the teeth in spaces of about 2ml apart from the outside to the guideline that you placed previously. This will help to keep the bottle in place. Hammer the teeth flat, then you use a plier to bend it out. It should

To confirm that the teeth are properly set;

be at 45° not 90° out.

you get another plastic bottle, fill it with cement. Put the steel sheet over the cement

7

bottle, push the teeth so that it fits correctly

Step 5

to the bottle. Then you carefully remove the cement bottle from the sheet. The use of the cement bottle is to protect the plastic bottle that will be used from damage.

Apply glue using the glue gun in the middle of the sanded section. Insert the plastic can into the sheet. By putting the glue beforehand you lessen the possibility of risk. To prevent your hand from getting sticky, mix some water with some soap, insert your fingers in the mixture. Push in the glue into the crevices, this is essential because, if the upper seal is breached, you Sand close to the mid part of the plastic

will still have one at the bottom to hold

bottle(normally where the label is placed)

back the water from coming in.

so that the glue sticks properly. There

Do the same at the top, make sure the top

should be 2/3 space at the bottom for light

seal is about 2ml or half an inch above the

to go out and some space at the top of the

sheet, that way water won't go into the

bottle for light to come in. The sanding

roof. If there are spaces or metal pieces that

should be done at 45°. Make sure that there

go out, you can put another layer of glue.

is no shiny part in the section.

8

from growing in the water blocking the light coming into the house. The bleach will be enough to keep the water clean for the next couple of years. Then fill it up with distilled water, to make sure that there are no particles of dirt in the water that will block off the sunlight. Fill up the bottle all the way to the top to ensure that there is no room for evaporation.

Step 6

Step 7

Fill the bottle with water and 4 caps of bleach (10ml). The bleach is to stop algae

9

It is important to put a sealant in the cap to make sure that no evaporation occurs from the solar bottle light. Apply glue to the mouth of the bottle and plac e the cap on it. The bottle cap cracks under the sun, so protect it by putting a shield around it, to make sure that the sun's rays do not crack the top of the bottle. Apply gum to the cap and place the shield ( a 1 1/4 inch pipe covering) on it, seal the edge of the shield and the top with gum. TO INSTALL SOLAR BOTTLE BULB Step 1

Draw a circle on the roofing sheet using a guide. Cut through the circle.

10

Put the glue on the outer perimeter of the steel sheet and on an inch around the hole, make sure the glue does not cover the bottle light. Then you insert the bottle.

Step 2

Insert the bottle through the roofing sheet to make sure it fits correctly before you apply glue. Step 3

11

Step 4

Step 5

Drill 6 holes and rivet immediately to make

Seal around the sheet with gum and a metal

sure the holes align.

strip, it ensures that water does not leak into the house at least in the next 5 years. This gives it double sealing.

12

Step 6

Project 3: DIY Solar Battery Charger Learn how to charge a Li -ion 18650 cell using a TP 4056 chip with the sun energy. Hardware Equipment:

Seal with glue from inside of the roof.

●

5v solar cell

●

General purpose circuit board (PCB)

●

1N4007 diode

●

Copper wire

●

2 terminal blocks

●

18650 battery holder

●

18650 battery

●

TP4056 battery protection board

●

5v power booster

●

Connecting cables/wires

●

General soldering equipment

Conclusively, ensure you use PET soda bottle (1L, 1.5L, 2L) to make sure that it does not easily break. Do not use plastic water bottles. Use tough glue like Sika Flex 11FC glue or epoxy sealant to make 1100 percent sure it is sealed properly. Here comes your plastic solar bulb.

Procedures: 1. Solder the battery protection board a bit above the circuit board

13

3. Put four copper wires to make four legs on the circuit board

To achieve this, use a hard copper wire to make legs of the circuit board 4.

the solar cell is connected to the TP4056 battery charger

2. Slide in the battery charger board unit into the leg and solder them altogether. 5. A diode of 1N4007 is inserted at the positive end for the revert voltage protection.

6. Then the BAT+ and BAT – of the board is connected to the positive and negative end of the battery.

14

9. Put in the sun to test

7. To power the board, we need to boost up the output to 5v. add a 5v booster to the circuit.

The charging light comes on

8. Connect the negative end of the battery to the IN - of the booster and the positive end to the IN+ by adding a switch in between

10. Plug in your load to see

The booster goes straight into the charger The LED light appears dim

15

Project 4: How to Set Up A Solar Power System Solar electricity is more expensive than a generator, but it never runs out of fuel (except on a cloudy day). In general, a gas/propane generator will produce more energy for less money. Even if you install

11. Plug in the battery to see how it works

solar panels, you will need a generator for use at night and on cloudy days. Consider a grid -independent inverter, a battery backup, and/or a generator if you already have solar panels. The way it works is that the elect ricity is harvested by the solar panels, which goes to the solar charged controller, which then charged the The charging lights are up

battery and then power from the battery goes back to the charged controller. After that it then goes to the solar inverter, which then powers your g adgets and home appliances.

You can use this for your remote data logger. 4 basic components:

You will actually need solar panels with more wattage to effectively and efficiently

1. Solar charge controller

charge the battery.

2. 12V20ah Seal lead acid battery with a max charging current of 6 amperes

16

Note: you can put distilled water into the battery terminals to extend the life usage of your battery. 3. 500 watts Solar power inverter of 12 volts to ac 220 which converts power from the solar panel and battery 4. 50 watts Solar panel Procedures:

Note: be sure to cover one of the terminals

●

from the solar panel with an electric tape to

Connect the negative and positive

prevent it from short circuiting. As soon as

wires from the solar panel to the

the solar panel hits with light, both wires

positive and negative solar panel

automatically become live.

terminal on the charge controller

Tip: personally, I always us e the wire with the printed label on it for the positive terminal to prevent confusion.

●

Connect the positive and the negative battery terminal on the charged controller to the negative and positive terminal of the battery.

17

●

Connect the negative and positive terminal of the charged controller to the positive and negative terminal of the power inverter.

Tip: I'll use the wire with the printed label for the positive terminal.

Note: As soon as the solar battery and solar panel are connected to the charged controller, some of the LED lights will light up.

18

●

Tip: To power inverter, press the orange power button on the solar charged inverter, this will light up the load LED light of the solar charger controller and turn the power inverter fan on.

To power up the ac out and USB port, on the inverter, press the on button.

19

Try charging your gadgets.

a minimum, and store gasoline in a safe place away from heat, fire, and electricity. Part

1:

Selecting

A ppropriate

Containers for Storage 1. Choose containers that are clearly labeled for gasoline.

That's it. Gas cannot be safely stored in any container. Look for a container that is

Project 5: How to Store

labeled "gasoline" (or "petrol"), with appropriate warnings and information

Petrol/Gasoline

about the capacity and safety features of

In the case of a total grid down, gas

the container (such as spill -proof caps or

stations will not be functioning and eve n if

flashing arresting screens).

they are, the queue will be too long to even ●

get petrol. So the best thing to do is to have

Check the label for safety certifications (like UN/DOT or UL) or signs that the

your petrol stored safely in case something

Environmental Protection Agency or a

like that ever happens.

similar group has approved the To maintain the safety and freshness of

container.

your gasoline, it is necessary to store it properly. containers

Always

●

store gasoline in

designed

specifically

Most gasoline containers are red to show that the product is flammable.

for

2. Purchase standard plastic gasoline

gasoline storage. Fill and move containers

containers for use around the house.

carefully to keep health and safety risks to

20

If you need to transport gasoline containers in the United States using a commercial vehicle, you mus t use a container approved by the Department of Transportation. The Department of Transportation approves gas containers that meet United Nations standards. These containers may be made of plastic or metal and will bear the UN emblem.

For basic home use, such as refueling a lawnmower or generator, plastic gas cans

●

are widely available at automotive and

requirements for the storage and

home supply stores. These cans are made

transport of gasoline. Chapter 6.1 of

to meet a number of safety and quality

this

standards. When used correctly, they are

UN

publication

on

the

International Carriage of Dangerous

usually safe. ●

Numerous nations adhere to UN

Goods contains a detailed breakdown

Plastic gas storage containers are

of the UN's packaging and labeling

designed to be child -resistant, leak -

standards: ●

proof, and environmentally frien dly.

Choose containers with a maxi mum capacity of 5 gallons (19 l).

They must adhere to strict national and international safety requirements.

3. Obtain safety cans approved by UN/DOT for use in commercial vehicles.

Most fire codes stipulate that portable gasoline containers should hold no more than five gallons (19 liters) of fuel.

21

Capacity requirements may vary depending on your location. In some areas, plastic gas containers are subject to even stricter capacity restrictions than metal ones. ●

Check the local fire code to determine the area's capacity regulations. Filling your container too quickly can

Part

2:

Safely

filling and moving

result in splatters, spills, and potentially

containers

dangerous static electricity buildup. Keep your hand on the gas nozzle at all times

1. Keep the container on the ground

and maintain control of the gas flow into

while filling it.

your container while filling. ●

Keep the nozzle of the gas pump in touch with the opening of the container at all times.

3. When the container is 95 percent full or less, stop.

Gas fires caused by static electricity can be avoided by placing the container on the ground. Never fill the container while holding it or driving with it. ●

Fill the container at a safe distance (at least 5 feet or 1.5 meters) from the vehicle.

Overfilling a container increases the

2. Fill the container carefully a nd

likelihood of spills and overflow. When

slowly.

gasoline is exposed to heat, it may expand in the container, so it is also important to leave a small amount of headspace to prevent pressure buildup.

22

●

●

Some plastic gasoline containers have

If you see gasoline on the outside of

a strip of translucent white plastic

the container, you should let it sit until

along one side so that the level of fuel

the gasoline has evaporated before

can be easily determined.

putting it in your car.

4. Once the container is full, it must be

6. Immediately remove the container

tightly sealed.

from the vehicle.

After filling the container, replace the cap

After you've filled your container, transport

and verify that it is securely fastened. This

it to its final destination and remove it from

will prevent any hazardous spills or leaks.

your vehicle. The interior of a vehicle can become ver y hot. Never leave gas in your

5. Place the container upright in a

vehicle for longer than strictly necessary.

shady, stable location wit hin your ●

vehicle.

Inhaling gas fumes while driving with a gas container in your car puts you at risk for illness, so it is best to limit the amount of time the container is in your car.

Part 3: Maint aining Your Containers in a Secure Location 1. No more than 25 gallons (95 l) of Do not place the container in the trunk or

gasoline may be stored in a room.

in direct sunlight. Ensure that the container is not on its side or at risk of toppling during transport.

23

●

You can purchase flammable storage cabinets at a variety of home improvement stores or online.

3. Place your containers away from large appliances.

While local regulations may vary, many fire codes prohibit storing more than 25 gallons (95 l) of gasoline in a single location. Typically, gas must also be separated into smaller storage containers. ●

An appliance's heat, sparks, or static

Find out how much gasoline you can

electricity could ignite the flammable

legally and safely store on your

vapors in your gas containers. Do not store

property by contacting the local fire

your gas container near any electrical

department or another health and

appliances, including dryers, refrigerators,

safety authority. 2. Keep

the

or water heaters.

gasoline in a well -

ventilated area outside the residence.

●

You should also make sure your storage area doesn't have any open flames or other things that could start a fire.

4. Avoid placing your containers in direct sunlight.

If you keep gasoline cans in your home, you risk exposure to fumes or fire. Keep your containers in a shed or a cabinet designed specifically for the storage of

Your storage space should be dark, cool,

flammable liquids outside your residence.

and out of direct sunlight. Your gasoline

24

will evaporate and expand inside the

Chapter 2: Projects on

container when exposed to sunlight. ●

Water When the Powers

An excessive amount of heat from any

is out

source, including the sun, can pose a risk of fires or explosions. ●

We just cannot survive for very long

Keep your fuel containers away from

without water. Now that the grid is down,

windows and never leave them in

why is water still an issue? Pumps deliver

direct sunlight.

water to our homes, so when the power

5. Gasoline should be discarded after

goes out, the pumps stop, eventually

12 months or when oxidation signs

lowering the pressure as well.

appear. The good news is that the pressure If

properly

stored, gasoline has the

typically persists for a while, so as soon as

potential to last up to a year. If your

the power goes off, fill up any bathtubs,

gasoline has been stored for several

big pots, or other containers you may have

months, pour a sample into a glass jar and

around the house.

compare it to a sample of fresh gasoline. A darker hue could indicate that the gas is

It is advised that you strive to keep 3

beginning to oxidize and should be

gallons of water per person, each day, on

discarded.

your property at the very least (don't forget

●

your pets!). This can be kept in many Fuel stabilizers can extend the shelf

different ways and is used for drinking,

life of gasoline by several months. ●

personal hygiene, and cleaning.

To find out how to get rid of old gas, search for "hazardous waste disposal facility near me" or call your local

First, visit your local grocery store and get

waste management agency. ●

cases of bottled water. It's a good idea to

Never dispose of gasoline outside, in a

keep these on hand for drinking.

sink, or in a storm drain. This can create

fire

haza rds,

harm

Depending on how much space you have to

the

environment, and possibly contaminate

store water, you can choose from a wide

local water sources.

variety of storage containers.

25

The Water Bricks • 55 Gal. Barrels

When you think of water storage, the 55

For people with smaller houses, such

gallon barrel is likely what comes to mind.

apartments or condos, Water Bricks are

If you have the capacity for them, these are

fantastic. They can be stacked and are

wonderful for storing big amounts of

smaller.

water. For simpler storage and use, I prefer the ones that stack. 5 gal Containers

They are compact and easy

Barrels for Rain

In the absence of an emergency, rain

to carry, fill,

and use than larger containers. I prefer and

buckets are excellent to have and may be

utilize 5 gallo n containers. They come

used to water your plants. Just keep in

with handles, and spigot valves are also

mind that water you gather from the

available for purchase for them.

outdoors isn't pure, so you'll need to boil it or get a decent water filter like the

26

Lifestraw for individual u sage or the

•

Five-gallon bucket

Berkey for a family or you can DIY.

•

A fifty five gallon drum with lid

•

The downspout fittings

•

A power drill with 7/8 inch spade bit

•

A utility knife

What about if power does not come up for a long time and you have almost exhausted the ones you have stored? Then make your own water.

Procedures The next project we are going to embark 1.

on will show you how easy it is to get your

Have your roof cleaned professionally.

own water.

Project 6: How to Construct a Device That Collects Rainwater The use of collected rainwater for garden irrigation can result in significant water savings. If you live in a place that gets a moderate to high amount of rain, you might be able to get all the water you need for your home from rainwater alone. The following items are necessary for your project: •

A gutter strainer

•

A permanent black marker

•

A three -quarter inch spigot with a 1/4 inch turn ball valve

•

Three cinder blocks

•

1 1/4 inch galvanized wood screws

•

A half-round bastard file

•

A jigsaw

•

Paint strainer

2. Make a hole in a bucket. To create the top of your rainwater collection system, use the 7/8-inch spade bit attached to you r power drill to cut the

27

lid off of a five -gallon bucket. This will serve as the cap. 4. Trace all the wa y around the top of the 55 gallon barrel onto the top of the 5 gallon bucket with your permanent black marker. drill your way through the five-gallon bucket to create the first hole in it in the same way.

3. Make it simpler for your jigsaw to roll and cut by drilling a hole in the side of the five-gallon bucket. This will allow more room for the blade.

5. Using a 7/8 -inch-diameter spade bit, drill a ho le in the top of the 55 -gallon barrel.

28

6. Be sure to stick to the instructions that 8. Give it a good spout, because no one

are written around the top of the barrel.

likes a leaking spout, especially when the goal of your rainwater collection system is to reduce water waste. 9. Spout it out. You will need to drill a hole with your 7/8 -inch spade bit into the bottom of the 55 -gallon dru m, and then use a half-round bastard file to file down the inside of the hole until you 7. The opening of the 55 -gallon drum

have a good fit and can screw the 3/4 -

should be able to accommodate the top

inch spigot in securely. This will allow

of the five -gallon bucket without any

you to make sure that your spout fits

difficulty.

snugly into the bottom of the drum.

29

10. Once you have determined that the drum will fit adequately on the cinder blocks, place the drum on the blocks.

11. The drain. Install an extension to the gutter downspout so that water can flow into the collection barrel using the one that is already there ( any hardware store will have a variety of extensions and fittings).

30

12. To ensure that the end of the fitting will be able to slide into the top of your rainwater collection barrel, measure and mark the location where the fitting

13. A splice may be required to connect

will be cut (most fittin gs are made of

the extension to the end of your

flexible plastic and can be cut with a

previous downspout.

utility knife).

31

16. Attach the fittings to the side of your house step to make sure they fit properly.

14. Bring the two parts together until they securely click into place.

17. To prevent bulky items from falling into the collection barrel, you should drill a hole in the top of the fiv e-gallon container and secure it with a screw. 15. Use brackets to fasten the fittings to the surface of the side of your house.

32

18. First, take measurements all the way around the opening of the drain, and then use the 7/8-inch spade bit to drill a pilot hole before proceeding to cut the rest of the lid with your saw.

20. Make sure there is no standing water in the drain because mosquitoes need moving water to breed in.

19. Position the lid on top of the bucket, and check to see that it has a good, secure fit.

33

22. Another smart thing to do is install a gutter strain in the open gutter on your roof. This will stop large debris from getting into the fittings and possibly clogging the gutters. 21. Before you put the strainer on the lid, tie a knot in it so that any organic waste that accumulates won't fall too far into the rain barrel. This will prevent

any

water from getting

through.

34

Project 7: How to Make A Simple DIY Stand Point Well This is similar to a straw that penetrates deeply into the earth and allows you to extract water. This style of well is quite simple to insta ll on your own. As the ends of the pipes are threaded, Note: Before start digging a well, it is important to check the water table and obtain the appropriate permissions. Tools Needed:

 A well point  Get a sledge hammer or a fence post driver, often called a pipe slammer  A well point ((the blue piece is made of cast iron and it is attached to a galvanized pipe that also has stainless steel mesh). The fine screen will be inserted into the ground to allow water

35

to enter the pipe, which will then be

3. Mix some soapy water

connected to other pipes to draw water from deep underground to the surface.  Get

five

4 -foot-long pipes with

threaded ends and a 1-and-a-quarterinch diameter. Larger diameters are available, but this is the best choice since you will be putting the pipe into the ground yourself.

4. To clean the pipe, pull the threaded

 Use a cup line to connect the pipes, but

brush through it.

do not purchase a standard one. This is a unique well cup line because it has threads on both ends, but the threads do not extend all the way to the end.  Pipe dope (one which is rated safe for drinking water)  A pitcher or a motorized pump Instructions: 1. The interior of the pipes should be cleaned, as someone or an animal may be drinking the water. 2. Attach a rope to the end of the brush in this manner.

5. Run water through it to remove dirt and detergent.

36

8. Be sure to remove any roots or rocks 6. Use a post hole digger to start digging

that could enter the upper soil from the

the hole.

hole.

9. Place the well point in the hole. 7. This can be approximately 4 feet deep.

10. Leave approximately one foot of the pipes above ground.

37

13. Next, take another segment, apply dope to the end of the threads, and insert it into the coupler.

11. Apply pipe dope to the pipe's threads. (Obtain a pipe cleaner that is rated safe for drinking water.)

12. Use your hand to tighten the coupler as much as possible.

14. Now, use the two biggest pipe wrenches you can find to tighten the coupler to the lower part of the pipe.

38

16. Insert it into the pipe's upper threaded end.

Additionally, tighten the cou pler's upper portion. Note: This material should not be made too tight, as it is intended to be beaten on.

17. Add another 10 -inch length of pipe before attaching the cap in order to properly insert the pipe into the well without damaging the threads.

15. Here are the secret ingredients that will allow you to drive the pipe into the ground without causing any damage. This is known as a "smash cap."

39

18. Start by driving the pipe into the

20. You may wish to include pipe dope.

ground with a sledgehammer.

Place it beneath the coupling and then tighten everything.

You may use a chair for convenience, and hit the pipe as hard as you possibly can.

Each strike drives approximately one inch of the pipe into the soil. 19. Once you are within a foot or two of the ground, you can now remove the extra 10-inch pipe.

40

21. Connect a pipe to the coupler.

22. Pipe wrenches should be used to tighten

the pipes and couplings.

Always check the tightness of the pipes.

24. Start checking for water approximately 12 feet above the ground. Once you reach 12 feet, you will insert at 23. Resume

striking

with

least one more pipe segment into the

your

ground. This will position the well point

sledgehammer.

far enough below the water table to ensur e that your new well will never run dry. Once the pipe hits something, like a rock, it will stop going into the ground. As a result of this, you should be ready to take the risk.

41

26. Cover the pipe's surrounding hole. 25. Insert the rope completely into the pipe. With water dripping from the rope, dragging it out will produce a musical sound in your ears.

42

27. The most productive phase of the

28. Attach the pump to the pipe using

project. It is time to pump your pitcher.

Teflon tape to make the process a bit simpler.

Note: Before using a pitcher pump for the first time, it is recommended to soak it in a five-gallon bucket of water for about an hour, as the leather gaskets inside the pitcher may have become quite dry while in the packaging.

29. Screw the pump securely into the pipe.

Tip: Pouring water on top of the pump will assist in priming it.

43

Note:

The

initial

water

will

be

contaminated. Maintaining the pumping process will aid in the final extraction of clean water.

30. Start pumping. Remember that you are pumping water from approximately 20 feet below the surface, so it may take some time before water begins to emerge.

And that concludes it!

44

Project 8: How to collect Water from a Surface Source 

Surface water: Surface water is water that flows on the surface; flowing water is preferable to stagnant water because it is significantly cleaner. There are parasites, protozoa, bacteria, and viruses in stagnant water, so it needs to be filtered and cleaned before it can be used.

Making A Drum Pump With Zero Power Tools:  16 millimeter pipe for intake of water  16 millimeter pipe output water pipe If you intend to drink the water, you can

 55 gallon water drum

have it tested. Otherwise, feel free to use it

 A marker

for any other purpose.

 A drill or any instrument that can assist in drilling the hole.

31. You may choose to embellish your

 PVC pipe

stand.

Instructions: 1. There is a 16 -millimeter hole already present at the top of the drum.

45

2. Drill a 16-millimeter hole in the middle of the drum's underside. 3. Measure with a marker and mark the center.

4. Shave around the middle mark.

46

7. Locate a different used 55 -gallon drum.

5. Round off the edges. 8. Remove its original entrance.

6. Determine if it is compatible with your PVC pipe coupler.

47

9. Double-check that your cuttings are an

10. Apply glue to the cuttings to ensure a

exact match with your 16mm hole

precise fit.

drum

48

11. Screw the attached cuttings' edges to the drum 12. Insert your PVC pipes into the two 16 mm holes.

This is the outcome of the 16-millimeter 13. Run with the air tight and fit the bill.

hole.

Remember

the drum's original 16 -

millimeter-diameter hole?

Make sure to tighten it.

49

14. Place the drum close to the water's surface on a stand.

15. Attach your input pipe using glue or a rubber band and a plastic bag (I.e., using glue or rubber at each joining).

16. Connect the final longer pipe (i.e., connect various lengths of pipe until it can reach the water source).

50

17. Attach a pipe for air pressure to the angled pipe.

18. Close the end of the pipe leading into the water until the output is opened.

19. Connect your output pipe.

51

20. Join air pressures 22. Now, fill both air holes to generate pressure.

21. Connect the locks.

23. obstruct the air vents

52

25. And your water begins to flow out.

Note: Depending on the distance between 24. Release the water input and output

the source and your shed, you can connect

pipes.

your output pipes to any length. Also, the pipe going into the drum should be smaller than the pipe going out of the drum.

53

Procedures:

Chapter 3: Projects on

1. Drill two holes in the bottom of one 5 -

Water Purification Although

many

gallon buckets and one lid

people believe that

filtering and purifying water are the same, they are in fact entirely distinct processes. When water is filtered, it is forced through a filter, which captures both minute and large particles of debris. Additionally, professional

filters

remove

bacteria,

parasites, and protozoa. My advice is to 2. Measure 4 inch from the edges of the

utilize a gravity-fed water filtration system,

two sides so they’d appear somehow

but don't forget to acquire one that is large

symmetrical.

enough to meet the demands of your family. Projects 10: Water Filtration A Water Filtration System Modeled After Berkey Water Berkey Water Filter System Components: 

Water container



The filter elements



And the spigot

Home Made: 

Water drop filters. Same size and shape of the berkey water filter system



Two Five gallon BPA free food -grade buckets with two lids



Plastic water spigot

54

3. Place the lid top -down over the bottom of what will be the top bucket.

Note: the purpose of the lid is to give a way to seat on top the lower bucket and 4. Drill three 8 inches holes

also provide a little more structure on

lid and bucket

which to hold the filter elements

5. Clean the plastic burrs up

55

through the

6. Since the filter elements are threaded, use an included plastic wing nut to affix the filter with the bucket 7. Attach the lid and the bottom of the bucket. Putting the filter and thread through the bucket and the lid holes.

At this point, the lid will be affixed with the bottom of the bucket

8. Tighten it in place with the plastic nuts

56

9. Remove the filter elements. 10. Drill a 5 -8 inch hole at the side of the lower bucket near the bottom and install the spigot

Note: the Big berkey bucket comes with two filter elements but it can accommodate up to four.

57

The filters come with a small rubber gasket that is used to press against the faucet thereby forcing water into the bottom side of the filter element.

Note: Before the filters are ready to use, they need to be primed. This is done by using the faucet to gently force water up the filter to flush out the element and saturate the pores with water.

The water begins to seep out the

sides of

the filter element. After doing this for several seconds, both filters are ready to use.

58

14. Pour in 4 gallons of water to test it out

11. Clean up the buckets with dish soap and water.

15. Water begins to drip out of the bottom of the filters into the lower bucket

12. Run a quick test on the spigot to ensure its attached securely and no leaks

13. Attach the filters back into

the upper

bucket and lower lid with the plastic wing nuts. It is ready to use

59

16. Make sure to cover the upper bucket

Project 9: Purifying Water by Boiling After you have filtered the water, you must purify it. There are some chemicals you could use, but boiling the water is by far the easiest method. Simply place the water in a cooking pan and allow it to boil

for a

few minutes. You will need to purify the Here we have it!

water because boiling it will kill any viruses and other small bacteria that may have gotten through the filter. Water filters are unable to remove viruses and chemicals. This method requires bringing clean wa ter to a rolling boil for one to three minutes. Water boiled at high altitudes should be boiled for a longer period of time than water boiled at lower altitudes. This is due to the fact that water boils at a lower temperature at greater altitudes. Before drinking, boiled water should be covered and allowed to cool. Before filtering out clean water from water drawn from a well, you must allow the impurities to settle. Steps: 1. Prepare a clean saucepan. Depending on how much water you'll need to boil, purchase a saucepan of the appropriate size.

60

4. Place your pot on the stove.

2. Get yourself a clean measuring cup.

3. Pour some water from the faucet into the saucepan. 5. Start the stove and bring the water to a boil.

61

6. You may cover the pot or leave it

than other contaminants and disease -

uncovered.

causing elements found in water, this method is effective. A heat source is applied to water until it reaches its boiling point. The substance is then allowed to boil until it evaporates. This vapor is cooled by passing through a condenser. Upon cooling, water vapor is converted back into clean,

potable

liquid

water.

Other

substances with a higher boiling point are left in the container as sediment. This

method

effectively

eliminates

bacteria, germs, salts, and heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic. Distillation is optimal for those who have access to untreated, unprocessed water. This method has both benefits and drawbacks. A notable disadvantage is that the water purification process is slow. In addition, a heat source is required for the purification to be effective. Although inexpensive energy sources are being developed,

Your water is now fit for consumption.

distillation

remains

an

expensive method of water purification. It

Allow it to cool before transferring it.

is only optimal (efficient and economi cal) for purifying small quantities of water (it is

Project 10: Water Distillation at Home Distillation

is

a

not ideal for large -scale, commercial or

method of water

industrial purification).

purification that uses heat to collect pure water in vapor form. Due to the scientific fact that water has a lower boiling point

62

Procedures: When heated, the water in the pan, which can be tap water, mineral water, or even sea water, becomes steam. When boiled water changes from its liquid state to its gaseous state, steam, only pure water evaporates, leaving behind any impurities. The steam rises and contacts the lid, which 3. Place a clean baking dish in the pot of

is cooler because it is farther from the heat

water so that it will float.

source. This cools the steam, causing it to condense and transform back into water. The water droplets, held on by surface tension, then run down the pan lid and collect at the handle. When enough water drops have gathered, the tension is broken, letting the drops fall into the bowl. This procedure w ould continue until all of the pan water is consumed. 1.

Fill a clean pot halfway with clean tap

4. Cover the pot with the lid upside down.

water.

The angle of th e lid will help stop condensation.

2. Place it on the stove.

63

Note: Make sure that water from melted ice is thrown away in the right way so that it doesn't get into the water you've already collected.

5. When the water begins to boil, water vapor is collected in the small pan placed within the pot.

7. Continue the process until t he water in the pot is gone or as desired. 8.

Carefully remove the lid.

6. Place a block of ice or ice cubes from your freezer on the lid of the pot of boiling water. This will help move the water accumulating on the surface of the lid into the small pan within the 9. That is your water inside.

boiling pot.

64

Chapter 4: Food Preservation Projects You could decide not to go to the store if a severe storm has knocked down the electricity grid. Even if you did, they would probably be closed as there would be no power. Therefore, it will be up to you to feed your family using only the resources you have at home. Utilize your perishables as soon as possible to avoid them going bad. Food in your refrigerator and freezer won't keep very long without a generator. Since they will spoil first, start by utilizing any meat, eggs, or dairy products. As long as the refrigerator door is closed, food will 10. Transfer the water to your container or

remain fresh for four hours. Before food

desired location.

starts to spoil, you have 48 hours for a full freezer and 24 hours for one that is just halfway full. In the case where there is power outage for a pretty long time , there should be at least rudimentary

knowledge

of

food

preservation, particularly meat. Large freezers typically consume more electricity than a solar generator can produce, so they are uncommon on most farms. Living in a no grid system, typically requires you to preserve meat and other foods for multiple days. So in this chapter

65

we are going to show you beginner’s friendly practices on how to preserve your own food in case of emergency or a no grid situation or if you want to go off grid.

Project 11: DIY Method for Smoking Meat Materials: 1. 4 Regular Concrete Bricks 2. 15 1/2 Concrete Blocks 3. Black Spray Paint 4. Meat Thermometer 5. A 10 By 14 Tile 6. 11 By 16 Grate 7. 2 Foot By 2 Foot Piece Of Plywood Procedures: 1. Spray paint your plywood to make it look better and protect it from the rain 3. Put a block at the top for air holes

4. And a blind block at the back 2. Start with one, two, three blocks for the base

66

5. Put two blind block on each sides

9. Lay the tile with air holes all around it

8. Put your four bricks inside the corners

67

12. Put four more blind blocks all way

10. Put another 4 blind blocks all way

round

round as shown in the image below

13. Put the last two blocks in front

11. Put in the grate and ensure it fits perfectly

68

14. Finally, put the lid it

15. You can slide the lid backward a little to fit in the meat thermom eter or use a drill to drill a hole at the top of the lid to fir in the meat thermometer.

69

17. Pour in some plain old charcoals into the hole

16. Get your meat ready and smoke

18. Open the air vent and light the charcoal either using a lighter fluid or preferably torches

70

20. Then the grate and the meat

19. Put back the heat barrier ( tiles)

71

cost garbage can. How exactly does everything function? This simple and cheap DIY project that involves using trash cans as a root cellar and cold storage is, in some ways, comparable to a geothermal energy system. As one descends deeper into the ground, the temperature there does not change. Because of this, when we bury the trash can and cover it, the soil will stay at the

And that’s it!

same temperature, which will keep the vegetables from freezing. How to Set Up 1. Select a location that has a slope, as this will allow any water to drain away from the can. 2. Dig a hole in the spot where you intend to put the garbage can. The vegetables need to be protected from the bitterly cold winter weather, so the ground will be dug up so that it can serve as insulation.

Project 12: Garbage Can Root Cellar DIY This Garbage Can Root Cellar may be of interest to you if you are looking for a costeffective method to maintain the freshness of all of your vegetables throughout the entire

winter.

By

following

these

instructions, you will learn how to make a fantastic cold storage system out of a low -

72

3.

4.

Ensure that the trash is buried for at

5.

As you fill in the area around the

least 90% of its size. Additionally ,

garbage can with a hoe, make sure to

make sure that the garbage is covered

create a grade that slopes away from

so that it can be protected and

the can so that any water that collects

insulated.

there will drain away.

Position the can so that it fits inside the hole, then fill the hole with sand. Be sure to cover the sides with a sufficient amount of dirt so that vermin cannot enter.

6.

You can now begin to gather your fruits and get ready to put them away. But before that, you should make an effort to insulate the space with wood shavings. During the winter, wood

73

shavings are helpful in maintaining

potatoes from touching each other and

more consistent levels of humidity.

to help the insulation

move around

well.

7.

Layer your root vegetables on top of the wood shavings already in the can's bottom.

9. After that, add another layer of your root vegetables 8. Once that step is completed, add an additional layer of wood shavings on top of the root vegetables that were there previously. The purpose of this method of layering is to help keep the

74

10. Repeat

the layering of the root

11. At this point, install two upside -down

vegetables with the wood shavings as

garbage can lids, one of which will

needed until you have finished storing

serve as rigid insulation and the other

them.

will provide access and additional insulation.

12. You will now need to add dirt in order to shape the area into a cone, with the rigid insulation serving as the flat peak of the cone. You will nee d to add more dirt to fill in the gaps that have appeared.

75

14. Once that step is completed, the next step is to take the caps off the containers.

13. Using your hand to create a mound around it will help it take on the shape 15. Once it has been opened, the next step

of a cone.

is to place some straw inside of it so that it has increased insulation.

76

16. After placing the straw, place the cap on the top of the container.

17. When you have finished doing that, we recommend you add more dirt so that

18. If you add more soil and dirt to the

you won't have to go back and add

area, you will be able to pack it down

more

and reduce the likelihood that animals

dirt in the spring when

everything is wet. Additionally, this

will try to enter the space.

will improve insulation and keep the

After ten weeks, you will be able to check

potatoes from drying out (which are

on the progress of the situation. We did

root vegetables in an edible state).

exactly that, and our investigation revealed that no rodents or other small animals came near the area. 19. We were able to open it.

77

20. After you have finished harvesting your root vegetables, be sure to re -

78

cover the root cellar in exactly the same way that you did so before. Success!

Project 13: How to Make your Dill Pickles You want to bring the water to a boil. And In this guide, we'll show you how to make

sometimes, make sure you roll your jars so

your own pickles. We are going to use the

that all the sides can be sterilized.

cold pack method to make our own pickles as it allows the cucumbers to be at room

2. Ensure you toss your seals in the boiling

temperature. And also allows the jar to be

water so that they can be sterilized too.

sterilized and cooled down to room temperature. That way you're not dealing

3. The next step is to pack the sterilized

with handling hot cucumbers. This means

jars with the cucumbers. Start by putting

you can easily pack them into the jars. And

the larger cucumbers in the jars first, and

if you make a mistake, you can just remove

then fill the spaces with the smaller

the cucumbers and start again.

You want to pack them tight so that when

ones.

you cook them they are going to loosen. The cold pack method is a great way for a person who has never done p ickling before to start off. Instructions on How to Start 1. Before you start, make sure you sterilize your jars and your lids. 4. Once you get your cucumbers in, you want to put in some dill. Put enough dill and flowers into your jars.

79

6. The next step is to make the brine. You are going to use 3 cups of water, 2 cups of white vinegar, and a quarter cup of pickling salt.

5. After that, add two cloves of garlic in a medium size or one really big clove and pack those in as well.

If you are a fan of dill spears, instead of whole pickles, you can use the same

7. After adding these, then stir together,

method.

and bring it to a boil. And after bring ing it

All you want to do is to make

sure you have quartered your cucumbers

to a boil, keep it at a simmer until you are

into the spear shape. Then cold pack them

ready to pour it into jars.

into your sterilized jars. 8. Now that we have the jar packed, it is time to pour the brine into the jar.

80

You want to leave a half inch of head room

12. Seal it tightly and put it into your water

in your jar. So make sure you have covered

bath.

your c ucumbers, but leave a half inch of room. 9. After that, take a clean cloth, dip it into your sterilized water and use it to wipe the rim very well, so we can get a good seal.

10. Take a sterilized seal out of your water bath and seal it on the jar. The n use the jar cover to have it covered.

13. After 15 minutes, take the pickles out of the water bath. And keep them in a safe cool place where you won't touch them for 24 to 48 hours.

81

The seal, when you first take them out will

2. Put some sand into the bucket

be concave, and hopefully within a few minutes or hours, you will hear a popping noise. The seal will then be convex, and you're good. Keep them in cool dark places and wait for at least 4 to 6 weeks to eat them. Cann ing your own pickle is easy and it is fun.

Project 14: The No Power Refrigerator Having a no grid freezer that doesn’t use power will be a great tool to help store food during a grid down. Learn how to store food items, drinks and more for 24 hours without electricity. 1. Get a paint bucket

3. Level the sand with your hands

4. Put an earthenware pot inside your bucket.

82

As you keep adding the sand, ensure to level with your hand

5. Put a lid on the pot

6. Add more sand to the surrounding of 7. Take off the lid when the pot is

the pot, enough to bury it inside the

properly buried

bucket (Be Careful not to let it spill on the lid, wipe off any sand with your hands or a piece of cloth)

83

9. Put back the lid of the pot to test fitting.

8. Wrap two Turkish towel around th e mouth of the pot. (Be sure to get it properly tucked in around the pot) Take off the lid 10. Raise the edges of the towel

11. Pour some amount of water around the pot through the tucked in towels to get it all soaked up

84

12. Keep putting water at every corner until the sand is all soaked up with the water.

14. Put the lid back on the pot

15. Cover with a wet Turkish towel. (Make sure that your towel stays wet all the time and fill the water also around the pot) Now tuck your towels properly 13. Put in your items for storage

85

17. Repeat the process and check back in 3 hours and repeat again noting a Note: the outside temperature is about 41°

reduction in temperature to about

at first before putting the thermometer

17.3°.

inside the pot. 16. Put the thermometer inside the pot and wrap again. Leave it for an hour and check back. Noting the temperature to have dropped to about 26.9°.

Your no energy cooling system is ready!

86

Chapter 5: No Grid Cooking Projects When choosing which foods to stockpile in your emergency supply, take in mind your cooking preferences. Of course, if your gas stove is still functional, you can use it. But if you are out of gas, you can use our DIY guide to learn how to make a roc

ket

stove to cook. This is another cheap way of cooking without spending money on gas, it's an outdoor kind of stove, easy to operate and maintain.

Project 15: How To Build A DIY Rocket Stove Oven Here is another cheap way of cooking

How to organize

without spending money on gas, it's an 1. Begin by arranging a single block as

outdoor kind of stove, easy to operate and

depicted in the image below.

maintain. Rocket stove is straightforward and easy to construct. I am confident that you will find this task to be simple. This design is really basic and assembly will take no more than a minute or two. Here are the resources you should utilize:

2.

If you have an H -shaped block, place it on top of the cinderblock.

1. three cylinder blocks 2. The Brick 3. two paver sets

87

3. Next, place a cinderblock in front of

5. You may now add fuel and light the

the other cinderblocks.

fire.

4. Place the remaining brick atop the stack. This will complete the chimney, and you can next place a grill or cooking surface over the opening.

88

Project 16: How to build a solar oven There is always an alternative to everything, it's just finding it and applying it appropriately Here is a simple technique on how to apply solar energy as a source of heat for cooking. Materials needed •

Carton(pizza box)

If you wish to build a double -burner stove

•

Scissor

with two cooking areas, you can add a

•

Cutter

second block to the back of the stove.

•

Gum

•

Black paper

This stuff costs between 6 and 8 bucks. It

•

Ruler

can be assembled in a matter of minutes

•

Marker

and requires no technical knowledge or

•

Foil paper

expertise. In an emergency, you will be

•

Paper wrap

able to cook or boil water with minimal

Steps

fuel with this item. 1.

Measure one inch border on the

pizza box. Use your marker to join this point, which will give you a square shaped

89

2. Cut the box according to the line

6. Cover the portion you applied your gum with the aluminum foil.

3. Fold the flap back by using a rule. 7. Smoothening the wrinkles and air pocket before putting the gum on the other side, Then press down the foil to the glued surface.

4. Measure the size of the aluminum foil according to the square I.e. the flap.

Cut off the excess foil.

5. Apply gum to the surface of the flap.

8. Apply gum to the edges of the box, cut a square shaped plastic wrap, fitting the top of the box

90

10. Apply gum first to the bottom of the box.

9. Then press down the plastic wrap, to stick to the top of the box to create an air tight space. 11. Glue the layer of aluminum to the bottom of the pizza box for insulation.

9. Do same for the bottom of the top cover, apply gum to the edges then cover it with the wrap. 12. Cover the bottom with foil black paper. This will help to absorb the heat.

Now our oven is ready.

91

Project 17: How to Get Wood and Let It Dry Freshly cut wood holds on to a lot of water, which makes it hard to start a fire and keep it going. Even if it does burn, wet wood creates more smoke and soot and gives off You can

less heat.

prepare your cookies and

marshmello with a mixture of chocolate.

Effectively drying wood does take time, so it's best to plan at least six months in advance. But once the wood has been cut to the right size and carefully stacked, all you have to do is wait for the sun and air to dry it out. Part 1: Splitting the Wood 1. Gather the wood early. You should

Ensure your oven is placed under the hot

buy firewood or cut it down at least six

sun, for more heat.

months before you want to use it. For the best results, do it even earlier to give it even more time to dry in the air. If you can, get the wood a year ahead of time so that it has enough time to dry out. 

The drying time can depend on the weather. If you live in a very wet area, give yourself more time.

Our cookie is ready.. 

Denser types of wood, like elm and oak, also take longer to dry.

2. Choose a secure workplace. If you didn't buy split firewood, find a place outside where you can cut and split the

92



wood yourself. Make sure the area is clear enough so that you can use a saw

bigger than they need because wood

and/or an ax wi thout getting in the

shrinks as it dries. 

way. If you want to work safely,



Some people like to cut rounds that are

If you're just starting out, it's best to be

choose a flat surface over one that isn't

safe and cut smaller pieces until you

even.

know how much the wood will shrink. 

Keep people and animals far away from the area where you're working.

If you live in a wet area, cut the rounds even smaller so they dry faster.



When you start to cut and split, make sure to look behind you often to make

Cutting wood into the same lengths will make it easier to stack it.

sure no one is coming.

4. Cut the wood in half

3. Cut whole logs into rounds of the same size.

5. Put your cutting block on a flat surface. Place a round on top with the side that was cut facing up. The round can be First, measure the size of your fireplace,

cut or sawed in half from the top down.

furnace, or any other place where you will

6. Repeat with each half to make splits of

burn wood. Then, take three inches (7.6

wood that will fit in your fireplace,

cm) away from either the length or width

furnace,

of the wood, depending on h ow it needs to

or

other

wood -burning

appliance.

fit into the space. Use this number to figure



out how long each whole log is and mark

Split the wood at least once, even if your wood burner can fit a whole

where to cut it. Use a saw or an ax to cut

round. Since the bark seals in moisture,

them into rounds of equal length.

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

it is important to show as much of the 

inner wood as possible.

currents will flow up and down the

Cut the w ood into smaller pieces than

sides of the hills.

you need to dry it faster. 

If your land has a lot of hills, air

2. Sketch your row(s).

Also, cut the wood into pieces of different sizes. Make small pieces for kindling and larger pieces that will burn longer.

Part 2: Storing Your Cut Wood

Plan to stack your wood in a single r ow if you can, so that the cut ends face the strongest air currents. Use this method instead of adding up rows. Allow all of your wood to get the same amount of air. 1. Locate

a

suitable location for



stacking items. To get the most out of

row of wood, put each row as far

solar drying, choose a spot outside that

apart as you can to let the most air

gets little to no shade. Use the air by

flow between them.

choosing a place that is open to the

3. Build a raised garden bed.

winds or other air currents that are already there. Stay away from places where water is likely to flood, run of f, or stand. 

Have enough room for one long

Use almanacs or weather stations to find out which way the winds usually blow in your area.

94

4.

Don't put firewood on the ground.

your row by making each layer face in

Don't let the water that collects below

a different direction. •

cause rot. Use something that won't

You can finish the ends all at once or

soak up water, like concrete or a grid

as you go. If you build them all at the

of poles laid out in a straight line. In a

same time, stop when they are about 4

pinch, you can use pallets or lumber

feet (1.2 m) tall. This way, if the pile

that you don't need for anything else.

falls, the top will still be below the

Make the bed as level as you can so

heads of most adults. •

that you can stack it safely. 

Put your best pieces at the end s of the

If you use wood, cover the top of

books. Check that each piece of wood

the bed with tarps, plastic sheets,

is even on all sides. Throw away any

or

something similar to stop

that looks like it's getting smaller from

moisture from getting from the

one end to the other. If such pieces are

wood below to the wood on top. At

used, the structure may not be as stable

the same time, make holes in the

as we want it to be. •

materials so water doesn't pool on

Put the bark side up on each piece.

top.

Since bark does not absorb water, this

5. Build bookends.

will help protect the wood from rain. 6. Stack your wood on top of one another.

First, put the bottom layer of split wood along the length of the raised bed to make the first row. Set each piece up s o that the cut ends all point in the same direction. Between the bookends is where you should •

Then, make a second layer at each end

start the second layer. Place the cut ends so

of your row with the cut ends facing

that they face the same way as the ends o f

the opposite way. To make stable

the bottom layer. Set each piece so that it

bookends, keep adding to both ends of

covers two pieces in the bottom layer by

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going across where the two bottom pieces

makes it harder for air to move, and the

meet. Keep doing this until the pile is 4

friction could cause the plastic to tear. •

feet (1.2 m) high. •

speed up the rate at which water Put each piece in place so that the bark

evaporates. Clear things let the sun

is facing up. This will protect the wood

shine right through.

from rain. •

•

When gaps need to be filled for

If you leave your pile open, the wood should be dry by the time you need it,

stability, use smaller pieces to fill

unless you get a lot of rain or have a

them. •

Use things that can black up heat and

very short drying season.

If the layer is capable of supporting the

Part 3: Checking to see if it's dry

next one, leave the spaces as they are for better airflow. 7. Cover if desired.

1. Take a look at the color. Even though each type of wood is a different color, you can expect your wood to get darker as it dries. Observe how bright the inside is when you first split the Decide if you want to leave the pile as it is,

wood. Wait until the mostly white

or cover it so it doesn't get wet when it

wood turns yellow or grayish before

rains. Use black or clear plastic sheeting to

you burn it.

cover it if you decide to. For the best

2. Check for sap. Hold a piece of the

results, support the sheeting with things

wood up to your nose and take a deep

other than the pile, like stakes or poles, so

breath when you first split it.

they don't touch. •

When the sheeting and wood are in direct contact, the wood can soak up condensation from the plastic. It also

96

Learn what the smell of its sap is like. Then, when you're ready to burn the wood, pick a piece from the pile to use as a test. Cut it open and smel l it. If you can still smell the sap, put it back in the pile to dry some more.

If you are still not sure, put together a few

3. Give it a try. Consider the wood safe

pieces and try them out. If neither the small

to burn if most or all of the bark has

pieces nor the bigger ones catch fire, it

fallen off on its own. If not, use a knife

means they are still too we t and need more

to cut off the bark. Check out the wood

time to dry. If they do catch something,

right underneath. Pieces that look

listen for a hissing sound, which means

green need more time to dry before

there is water in it.

they can be used.

My advice is to start getting this project done now for the woods to dry out properly

4. Decide by weight. Note how heavy

in case we need to make use of them any

each piece feels when you first split the

day and any time.

wood. Once the water weight is gone, the same piece will weigh a lot less. Knock two pieces together to make sure that they are dry. If they sound hollow, they are likely to be dead.

5. Set up a fire.

97

  

Chapter 6: Projects on

4-5 cups of enriched flour 2 cups of water 3 tablespoons of salt

Superfood Survival Food With this simple survival food recipe, you are sure to have bread every single day as you stay off grid. Step 1: Add salt to your flour and stir (you can choose to sift it first)

Project 18: How to make this super food HARDTACK Hardtack is an old sailor way of

keeping

carbohydrate and preserving them for consumption, formerly used as a long -term staple food aboard ships. Many people, all the way back to the Ancient Egyptians utilize this simple recipe. It is a simple and easy way to feed your family and to be able to stow away food for future use. Step 2: Add the cups of water.

Ingredients:

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Step 3: Mix it all togethe r slowly, to make sure that everything gets incorporated. Ultimately, what we want is to get a dough that we can work with and then roll out and cut into 3inch by 3inch square.

Step 5: Roll it out, it should be about a quarter inch thick.

Step 4: Place the dough on your work table. Pour some flour on the work table

.

This flour is to enable the dough to dry out and to make it less sticky. Continue to knead the dough.

Step 6: Cut it up in squares.

99

Step 7: Poke holes with a fork or a chop

Project 19: Superfood

stick all the way through the dough. So that

Survival Recipe

it can dry quickly. The drier it is, the better the product.

Requirements: ●

2 cups of flour

●

2 teaspoons of baking powder

●

½ teaspoon of salt

Procedures: 1. Mix everything up in a large bowl with a cup of water 2. Let the dough sit for one hour in a Step 8: Put in the oven at 375° for

refrigerator

30minutes. Flip them and reduce the heat

3. Bring it out. Put it on a clean flat

to 350° for the next 30 minutes.

surface (counter top).

It comes out very tough which is necessary for preservation. To eat it, you have to rehydrate it, like dipping it in tea. It is important to invest in good flour. The flour used is enriched with niacin. This is such an important nutrient. If you were in a situation where you are unable to get your daily allowances of normal nutritional intake, this is going to be your lifeline. So invest in good flour that will pay you great dividends, even if you decide to use this for a weekend treat, this simple recipe will save you a lot of money as well as

It has a level of elasticity that you will feel

practicing a very useful skill.

which wasn't initially present

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5. Roll it up super thin about a quarter of Note: You can make dough that's going to

an inch to give it the capability to cook

last for a whole week and it can be used for

up really quick

your pan pizzas or others 4. Cut off a small portion perfect for a sandwich or about the size of your fist

Take it up and set it aside

6. Get your chia seeds or whatever seeds you'll want to use and roll it or spread it up on the counter top

101

8. Use your rolling pin and roll over the dough to get those seeds inside

7. Take your flattened dough and spread it on the seeds 9. Take it off the counter top and repeat the process to the other side

You can give the dough a little tap to take The other side

up the seeds

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10. Grab some spray or oil that you'll use

12. Flip the side!

to heat your pan up. Spray some into your pan

Allow for another golden brown

Tip: If you are using a grill outside, make the spray on the do ugh and place right on top of the grill. 11. Place the dough on the pan and cover it up with a clear glass and grill for about 400/450° There you go!

Optional: You can put some ha m, turkeys, cheese and fold it up. Get the glass lid off

103

2. Obtain a total of three buckets.

Chapter 7: Projects on Free Heating and Air Cooling System Project If the

weather

emergency

contributed to your

Power

outage,

you

are

definitely going to be dealing with some high temps. 3. Use a drill to create some holes in the

If your home can accommodate a b urner, it will keep you warm, o therwise, you must

bottom of one of the buc kets, and then

rely on warm clothing and blankets to stay

use the drill to create some holes all

warm during cold weather.

around the outside of the bucket so that water can flow through.

Check out our DIY guide on how to heat up your home, in an extreme cold situation. This is a very cheap way to heat up your home.

Project 20: How to Get Started with the Free Heater 1.

Collect all of your old newspapers and junk mail (gather them up instead of putting them into the garbage).

104

4. Grab the next bucket, and place the

6. Add some water to create paper mache

bucket with holes from number one

or pulp according to your preference.

inside this one.

7. Add a lot of sawdust (optional).

5. Place all of your trash, including you r

8. After allowing it to soak for the

papers, inside the bucket with holes.

previous night, you should grind it all up (you can use a mixer that is used for mixing up concrete in buckets).

105

9. Add a lot of water and continue to grind.

11. Lift the bucket with the mixture and 10. Obtain the third bucket and position a

put it right on top of the bucket with

mill creek so that it is positioned across

the drain.

the bucket so that the mixture can be drained.

106

13. Let

it

drain

completely

before

continuing. You are able to give it a modest amount of provocation.

12. Keep

in

mind that the bucket

containing the mixture has several holes in it. Put the second bucket, which also contains water, inside the mixture so that it can help press the water out.

14. Remove/cut out the mixture.

107

15. In order to remove the mixture from 16. You can now cut it to the appropriate

the bucket, first invert it over a surface,

size for your fire bricks in order to

and then take the mixture out.

allow it to dry more quickly.

17. You could try shaping it into logs for the fire.

108

19. To be burned in your fireplace, put it in there.

18. You can wait a week or two for it to dry completely if you leave it.

And that wraps things up!

109

Project 21: How to make a non-compressor air conditioner How to Remain Cool in High Heat Make sure to drink plenty of water when it's extremely hot outside. If possible, avoid performing physical

labor during the

hottest times of the day. Keep to the ground floor of your house. Cover all windows that receive direct sunlight during the day. Create paper fans to move the air. If you can afford it, invest in some battery operated fans. With that said, you can follow our DIY guide to make a non -compressor air conditioner at home.

Items needed: Bucket, styrofoam liner pvc

It is really simple to build and you get tons

pipe, small fan and ice (small solar panel is

of cool air.

optional)

Step 1: Drill 3 holes of 21/4 in the bucket.

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Step 4: Cut a hole in the lid of the bucket and the styrofoam. Make sure you measure it to your fan.

Step 2: Insert the liner and drill through the holes, make it 2 1/8 inches. Ensure that your fingers are not close to the hole you are Step 5: Place a frozen gallon in the bucket

drilling.

Step 6: Place the lid over the bucket and insert your fan at the top. You can also place the fan on the styrofoam, without the bucket lid. Either ways, it works.

Step 3: Insert the PVC pipes of about 1

1

/2

inches through the 3 holes.

111

Chapter 8: Toileting During prolonged power outages, it is unlikely that toilets will function. In most cases, gravity handles the flush, but the sewer or septic may rely on electricity to pump sewage.

Step 7: Connect your fan to your power source. Here we used a solar panel to run

It may be necessary to defecate on a

the fan.

newspaper or in a makeshift toilet, and to store waste in black plastic bags. Provide wet wipes for cleanup purposes. A second option is a por table toilet with a bucket and garbage bags. This is easier for individuals who cannot squat to use. If you have the funds, purchase two: one for urine

Based on previous experience, we can get

and one for feces. The separation of solids

at least 5hours out of this. You can place

simplifies cleanup.

the bucket o n a stool or anywhere you deem fit, probably near the bed or a chair,

Project 22: Easy Steps to

wherever you want it to go and get your

Make a Composite Toilet

nice cool air.

Resources to acquire: •

Obtain a bucket with a capacity of five or eight gallons.

•

Medium trash bags

•

A noodle for the pool

•

A toilet paper roll

•

The bucket cap is made of plastic.

•

A blade, and perhaps a refreshing beverage to go with it.

112

1. Rip the handles off the bucket and stuff

3. Get a trash bag of the proper size and

a roll of toilet paper into each one of

put it in there. Check that it has a nice

the holes.

snug fit.

4. Using the bucket as a guide, measure your noodle and cut it to the appropriate size using a knife.

2. From the outside, reinsert the handle into the bucket.

113

7. Put it to th e test by adding a drop or two of liquid.

5. Make a slit down the middle of the object so that it can be wrapped around the bucket

8. Place some dirt inside to keep odors and mosquitoes at bay.

Alternately, you could use pine shavings

6. Wrap the noodles around the bucket in

like we do for our chicken coop.

a clockwise direction.

114

Chapter 9: Medical Survival Skills Without functioning hospitals, you will be essentially on your own in terms of medical care. Not only will the loss of power cripple the hospitals, but there

9. When you are finished, remove it and

will

either dispose of it in a place whe re it

also be an influx of individuals seeking

is legal to do so or bury it in your

medical care. In addition, medical supplies

forest.

will run out rapidly, and replenishing them will

be

nearly

impossible

because

communications will be down and traffic will be gridlocked.

PROJECT 23; HOW TO STOP BLEEDING? According to experts, the first thing you should do if you are bleeding is to apply pressure to the area. Bleeding occurs when blood leaks from blood vessels, usually due to a wound. When you have a cut or a bloody discharge, you are bleeding on the outside. When you are bleeding on the inside, the blood is coming from under the skin. According to research, uncontrolled or severe bleeding can lead to shock, which means you don't have enough blood in your body. You can likely treat mild bleeding injur ies at home, but you should

115

see a doctor immediately if you have

clean piece of tissue paper or gauze. Check

severe bleeding or can't control it.

to see if the bleeding has stopped after holding the tissue or gauze in place for

Stopping Minor Bleeding from Small

several minutes. If blood penetrates the

Cuts (Method 1)

tissue or gauze, substitute it with a clean, dry

piece.

1. Use water to clean the wound. Water will both disinfect the wound and staunch

3. Think about using a styptic pencil.

the bleeding. Use cold water to stop the

The original purpose of these waxy pencils

bleeding by constricting the blood vessels.

was to treat shaving nicks and razor burn,

Using hot water in the same manner will

but they are effective on any small cut. The

cauterize the wound and allow the blood to

mineral astringents within the pencil can be

clot. Don't use both hot and cold water; one

activated by rubbing it over the skin. It will

or the other will suffice.

hurt a little at first, but the pain and bleeding will stop in a few seconds.

As an alternative to cold water, ic e can be 1. Add petroleum jelly to promote

used to constrict blood vessels. Hold the

coagulation.

ice against the wound for a few seconds, or until the wound stops bleeding. If you have multiple small cuts on your body, a hot shower will remove all the blood

and

seal

the multiple gashes

simultaneously. 2. Apply force to the wound. After cleansing the wound, apply pressure with a

Due to the waxy consistency of petroleum

116

jelly or Vaseline, applying a small am ount

onto the wound, or soak a cotton ball in it

to minor cuts will stop the blood flow and

and dab it on. You should observe a

allow the wound to clot.

decrease in blood flow after one or two

You can

substitute regular lip balm if you don't have

minutes.

any petroleum jelly or Vaseline on hand. 4. Use a block of alum. 2. Use antiperspirant.

Similar

This is a bar of mineral-based soap that

to a styptic pencil, the

helps to staunch bleeding. Wet the alum

aluminum chloride in your deodorant

block with water and rub it gently over the

acts as an astringent to stop the flow of

wound. There is no need to apply pressure

blood. Put some on your finger and

when placing the block over the wound;

then smear it over the wound, or rub

the minerals will do the necessary work.

the stick directly on the wound.

5. Apply white vinegar to the wound to disinfect it.

3. Dab on Listerine.

Originating Listerine

Vinegar's astringent pro perties aid in

as an aftershave, regular

disinfecting and clotting minor wounds.

can disinfect and staunch

Apply some white vinegar to the wound

bleeding from a cut. Pour Listerine directly

117

with a cotton swab and then wait for the

stopped bleeding, remove the cornstarch

bleeding to stop.

with running water.

6. Consider using witch hazel to stop

8. Utilize spiderwebs if necessary.

bleeding.

This is an excellent option if you suffer a cut while hiking or camping. Grab some Witch hazel is a natural astringent that

(spider-free!) spiderwebs and roll them

helps small cuts heal, just like white

over the wound, if necessary. The webs

vinegar. Pour a small amount over the cut

will stop the bleeding and allow your

or dab it on with a cotton swab for the

wound to clot internally.

same effect.

9. Dress the wound once the bleeding has been stopped.

7. Apply cornstarch to the wound.

Apply a clean bandage or dressing to the wound to prevent contamination and Sprinkle some cornstarch onto the wound,

further bleeding. Use a simple band -aid or

taking care not to rub or cause additional

a clean piece of gauze.

abrasions. You can l ightly press the powder onto the wound to hasten the healing process. When the wound has

118

suspect a broken bone, you should not

Treating Significant Wounds (Method 2)

attempt to move the affected limb. 4. Remove any foreign material from the wound.

1. Lie down. If you can elevate your legs or position your head below your trunk, you will be able to reduce the lik elihood of

Remove any visible dirt and foreign

shock.

objects, but don't clean the wound too

Check their respiration and

circulation before proceeding if you are

much because that could make it worse.

assisting someone.

Your immediate priority is to stop severe bleeding. The wound cleaning can wait.

If you think the person you are helping is 

in shock, get them to a doctor right away or

Do not remove the foreign object if it is large (e.g., a large piece of glass, a

call 911.

knife, or something similar). It is likely 2. Raise the affected limb.

to stop a significant portion of the bleeding by itself. Just put pressure on the area around the object, being careful not to squeeze it more. 5. Apply direct pressure to the wound until the bleeding has ceased.

Assuming that the injured limb is an extremity, elevating it above the heart will reduce severe bleeding. However, if you

119

Utilize a clean pad of gauze, dressing, or

However, do not overwrap it, as

clothing. If nothing else is available, your

increased bulk may reduce pressure on

hand can be used. Place your hand over the

the wound. If you suspect that the

pad and apply firm finger or hand pressure

bandage is not working, remove the

to the wound.

bandage and pad and ree valuate the application.[9] If it looks like the bleeding is under control, keep applying pressure until you are sure the bleeding has stopped or help arrives. 12. Use pressure points if necessary.

10. Apply consistent force. If the wound is on a limb, tape or cloth can be wrapped around it to maintain pressure (a folded triangular bandage placed over the wound and tied is ideal). For injuries to the groin or other areas of the body where the wound cannot be

If direct pressure alone is insufficient to

wrapped, use a heavy pad and continue

stop the bleeding, combine it with pressure

to press with your hands.

to one of these pressure points. Utilize your fingers to apply pressure to the blood vessels and bone. The most commonly needed pressure points are described below. 

The brachial artery for lower arm wounds. between the elbow a nd the armpit, on the inside of the arm.

 11. Check for oozing from the wound.

The femoral artery, for injuries to the thigh. Along the groin, close to the

Add additional gauze or bandages if

bikini line.

the initial one is soaked through.

120



The popliteal artery is for lower leg

14. Observe the victim's respiration.

wounds. This can be located behind the

Examine whether the bandages are too

knee.

tight. If the victim has cold, pale skin, toes, or fingers that do not return to normal color following compression, or if the victim complains of numbness or tingling, the b andaging is likely too tight.

Method 3: Internal Bleeding 13. Continue to apply pressure until the bleeding stops or until assistance arrives. Do not release pressure until you are certain that the bleeding has stopped. If you can't see blood coming through the dressing, check the wound every so often to see if it is still bleeding. 



Do not apply pressure to an artery for more than 5 minutes following

1. Immediately dial 911 if you suspect

the cessation of bleeding.

internal bleeding. Transport the victim to

If bleeding is life -threatening, a

a hospital as soon as possible. Internal

tourniquet should be applied.

bleeding cannot be treated at home and

When used correctly, tourniquets

requires

usually stop bleeding right away,

bleeding symptoms may include:

but if they aren't used right, they



can hurt the patient.

medical

attention.

Pain and inflammation near the site of the injury

121

Inte rnal



Cold, sweaty skin



Bruising of the skin



Dizziness or confusion



Rapid heartbeat



Low blood pressure

1. Keep

your

body

temperature

normal. If you put wet rags on the victim's forehead, he or she won't get too hot or too cold.

Project 24: How to Check

2. Settle into a comfortable position. Do

Airway, Breathing and

not attempt to move, and if possible, remain lying down. If you are helping someone who is bleeding from the inside,

Circulation

you should try to keep them calm and

If you find yourself in an emergency

comfortable so they don't get hurt even

situation where someone has collapsed or

more.

passed out, you must determine if they require CPR. CPR is a life -saving technique,

but

it

should

only

be

administered to a person who is truly in need. Before you start CPR, you need to check the person' s airways, breathing, and circulation to see if it's needed. Part 1: Examining Reactivity 3. Check for breathing. Monitor the airway, breathing, and circulation of the victim. If external bleeding is present, treat it.

1. Evaluate the situation. When you find someone unconscious or observe someone passing out, you should assess whether you

122

can reach him without jeopardizing your

2. Engage with the victim. Conversation

own safety. You must also determine if he

is one of the best ways to determine a

is in an area large enough for you to assist

person's responsiveness. Ask questions

him. If the person appears to be in

such as "What is your name?" and "Can

imminent danger (such as in the middle of

you hear me?" These questions may

the street), move him to a safe location

awaken the vi ctim from her stupor and

before attempting to assist him. However,

compel her to respond. Try tapping her

do not place yourself in danger. If you rush

shoulder or arm at the same time to see if

into a potentially hazardous situation, you

that helps.

may sustain injuries. Not only does this



help the person you were attempting to

If this does not work, try yelling at her once or twice to see if she will

save, but it also provides emergency

respond. Use phrases such as "Hey!"

personnel with an additional victim to

and "Hello!" to determine if she is

rescue.

awake. 

Use caution if a neck or spinal injury is suspected, such as in the case of a person who has fallen from a height or at the scene of a car accident where there are signs of additional major trauma. 3. Apply a sternal rub. A sternal rub may

Spinal precautions should be taken for

help confirm that the individual is indeed

anyone who has fallen from a height or

unresponsive. You should not perform

been involved in a motor vehicle accident.

CPR on an individual who is unresponsive but still breathing and circulating blood. Make a fist and vigorously rub your knuckles on the individual's breastbone. 

You can also perform a "trap squeeze," in which you grasp the shoulder muscles with your thumb and fingers and squeeze into the collarbone's

123

hollow. While bending low, listen for sounds or signs of breathing. 

Those who are merely sedated but still breathing should awaken from their pain.



Notate the reaction, if any, in order to inform EMS upon their arrival.

Part 2: Examining the airways

2. Adjust the head. To open his airway while he is laying on the ground, his head and airways must be properly aligned. One hand should be placed behind his head and the other under his chin. He should tilt his head back toward the sky. 

As if sniffing the air, the chin should end in a slightly raised position.

1.Situate the victim. Prior to examining the airway, the victim must be in the proper position. If there is any exudate (vomit, blood, etc.) in or around the person's mouth, place a glove over her mouth and remove it to clear her airway before rolling her. Roll the person onto their back. This should be placed on a surface th at is as flat as possible so that her body is straight and

3.Remove any debris from the airway.

easy to manipulate. Ensure that his hands

There may be instances in which the

are at his sides and that his back and legs

airway is blocked. This could be caused by

are straight.

a foreign object, the victim's tongue, vomit,



or other bodily fluids. If the airway is Take a moment to gently lower her

obviously obstructed by vomit or any other

shoulders. This widens the trachea and

removable material, remove it from the

aids in keeping the jaw elevated.

mouth using two or three fingers. To aid in

124

removal, you can quickly turn the victim's

Additionally, observe his nose as he

head to one side.

breathes in through his nose, as well as his



mouth as he breathes in and out. Try to avoid pushing any debris further 

down the tr achea by sweeping only as



If the chest does not rise, attempt to

far as you can see inside the mouth

reposition the airway slightly in either

with it open. Use sweeping motions

direction. You may have opened the

instead of digging motions.

airway too far or not far enough. 

If the tongue is obstructing the airway,

If the patient is gasping for air or

the jaw thrust technique can be

breathing poorly, they should be

utilized. Assume a squat position

treated as if they were not breathing

above her head and gaze toward her

and their circulation should be

toes. With both hands, grasp the jaw

checked.

gently but firmly so that you can curve your fingers into the chin's soft flesh. 2. Perform a breath test.

Raise the lower jaw to the sky without moving the remainder of the head. This facilitates the tongue's descent to the floor of the jaw rather than into the airway. Part 3: Performing a Breathing Check

If you cannot see obvious signs of breathing, you can use touch and sound t o determine if a person is breathing. Place your hand close to her nose and mouth to determine if she is breathing. If you do not, 1. Check for obvious signs of respiration.

lean your head close to the patient's mouth

There are several clear indicators that the

and listen for inhales and exhales while

victim is breathing. Observe the chest's rise

feeling for breath on your cheek.

and fall as he draws oxygen into his lungs.

125



If you hear normal breathing, CPR is

middle fingers on the raised area of the

not necessary. Still, you should call

chin, just below the jaw and to the right or

911 if she does not wake up.

left of the voice box or Adam's apple, in

3. If the victim begins to breathe, flip

the groove in the neck. Insert your fingers

them over.

into that groove. This is the carotid artery, which should have a robust pulse if his blood circulation is healthy. 

If the pulse is weak or absent, the individual is in danger and you must seek medical attention.

Opening the airway may be sufficient to restore the victim's breathing. If this occurs, roll the victi m onto his side to alleviate chest pressure. This will improve his breathing. Part 4: Examination of Circulation

2. Call 911. Call 911 if the individual is not breathing or has no pulse. Once emergency services arrive, they can help treat the victim and determine the underlying cause of the collapse. If you are alone, dial 911 before assisting the victim. 

If you are with another person, have them dial 911 while you assist the victim.

1.

Consider

the circulation.

After

determining that she is not breathing, you must determine whether or not her blood is still circulating. Place your index and

126

3. Provide CPR.

Project 25: How to do CPR CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a way to save a person's life when their breathing or heart has stopped, like during a heart attack or when they are almost drowning. CPR

typically

consists

of

chest

If the victim is not breathing and his pulse

compressions and rescue breathing, but the

is

exact method and duration vary depending

weak

or

absent, CPR must be

administered. This will help get his blood

on the situation and victim. If you are

pumping and his lungs functioning, and

untrained

may save his life while you await medical

professionals

assistance. CPR is a method that can give

hands-only CPR, which does not include

the victim more time to live until

rescue breaths. CPR can be administered to

medical

in

CPR,

many

recommend

health

performing

staff can treat the cause of the attack.

adults, children, infants, and most animals.



When giving CPR to the victim, make

Method 1: Hands -Only CPR for Adults

sure you follow the rules set by the

and Adolescents

American Heart Association. 

1. Examine the scene for any apparent

Consider enrolling in a CPR course to

dangers. In some circumstances, CPR may

learn how to administer this lifesaving

not be safe. If nearby dangers pr event you

technique correctly. 

from approaching the individual, do not

There are distinct CPR techniques for

endanger your own life as well as theirs.

adults and children.

Call for assistance and wait for it to arrive. 

Avoid the area if, for instance, a person has collapsed due to exposure to smoke, fire, or toxic fumes.



If the perso n is in a dangerous situation and you are able to safely

127

remove

them, do so before

placing your fingers on the carotid

beginning CPR. If they have

artery, which is located next to the

collapsed in the middle of the

windpipe and jaw. 

street, for instance, wait until there

Hands-only CPR is ideal for those who

is no oncoming traffic and then

lack formal CPR training or are unsure

move them out of the way.

of their CPR skills. It excludes the rescue breathing techniques associated with conventional CPR and focuses

2. Check for a lack of response.

instead on chest compressions. 3. Dial 911 for emergency assistance. Even if you decide to perform CPR on a person who is unresponsive, not breathin g, or without a pulse, you should call your local emergency number first. [6] CPR can sometimes bring someone back to life, but it should only be used as a stopgap until help arrives with the right tools.

If an adult or adolescent collapses while



conscious, CPR is typically unnecessary.

should call for help while the other

However, if they lose consciousness and

begins CPR.

stop breathing, you should administer



rescue breaths if possible, or stick to hands-only CPR if you are not train

If someone is not responding because they are suffocating, like from

ed to

drowning, it is best to start CPR right

perform rescue breaths. If the individual is not breathing,

If more than one person is present, one

away for one minute and then call 911.

has no pulse, or is

unresponsive, attempt CPR even if you are untrained or rusty. 



If you are the only person present and the victim is a child between the ages

Shake the victim's shoulders and ask,

of 1 and 8, perform 5 cycles of chest

"Are you okay?" in a loud voice. If the

compressions and rescue breathing

patient does not respond, look for signs

before calling for help. This will take

of breathing, such as the chest rising

approximately 2 minutes.

and falling. Check for a pulse by

128



Invoking

a long time before help arrives (a few

emergency services will

hours or more).

dispatch paramedics to the scene.

5. Raise the individual's chin to open

Typically, the dispatcher can also instruct you on how to perform

their airway. Once they are on their

cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

back, tilt their head back and press their chin forward and up with two

4. Keep the victim face down.

fingers. This should remove the tongue from the airway and make breathing easier. 

If you suspect the individual has a neck injury, avoid moving their head. Without moving the rest of their head or neck, they should

For

move their lower jaw forward

hands-only CPR, the victim must be placed

using both hands. 

on his or her back (supine), preferably on a

Once you've opened the airway,

firm surface, with the head facing upward.

carefully listen for breathing

[9] If the patient is on their si de or stomach

sounds and observe whether the

(prone), roll them gently onto their back

chest is rising and falling. Start

while supporting their head and neck. Try

CPR if the person isn't breathing

to make a note if the individual suffered a

after 10 seconds or if they are only

serious injury while fa lling and becoming

gasping occasionally instead of

unconscious.

breathing regularly.



6. Rapidly press down on the chest's

Once the patient is on their back, kneel

center.

next to their neck and shoulders so that you can more easily access their chest and mouth. 

Remember that you should not move the individual if you suspect they have suffered a severe head, neck, or spinal injury. Moving them is life -threatening and should be avoided, unless it will be

129

Place one hand directly over the center of

Method

the person's chest (generally between their

Cardiopulmonary

nipples) and the second hand on top of the

Adults and Children

2:

Using

Conventional

Resuscitation

for

first for support. Aim for approximately 100 chest compressions per minute on the victim's chest until the arrival of medic

al

professionals. 

If

you're

unsure

what

100

compressions per minute means, try doing your compressions to the beat of "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees or





"Another One Bites the Dust" by

1. Follow the same initial steps as for

Queen.

CPR with only the hands. Even if you

Utilize the weight and strength of your

have recently completed CPR training and

upper body, not just you r arm strength,

are confident in your abilities, you must

to push straight down on the chest.

evaluate the patient's responsiveness. If

Your

they are unresponsive and show no signs of

chest

compressions

should

depress the individual's chest by at

neck, head, or spine injury, turn them on to

least 2 inches (5.1 cm). You should

their back.

understand that it is likely you will

compressions, make an attempt to contact

break the person's ribs if you exert

emergency services and l ook for someone

significant force. This is extremely

to switch with.

Before beginning chest

common, and even if you suspect it has occurred,

you

should

not



stop

compressions when administering CPR

compression. 

to a young child between 1 and 8 years

Before the ambulance comes, you and

of age.

other bystanders may need to take 

turns doing chest compressions. 

Use only one hand to perform chest

The rate of chest compressions is identical for children and adults

Keep doing this until the patient starts

(roughly 100 per minute).

to move or until th e emergency 

medical team arrives.

For children between the ages of 1 and 8, the sternum (chest bone) must be

130



depressed between one -third and one half of the chest's depth. 

Please be aware that gasping is not considered normal breathing.



If you have recently completed CPR

If they are already breathing,

they do

training, you will only perform 30

not require assistance with breathing.

chest compressions before moving on

However, if the individual is still not

to the breathing assistance phase of

breathing, move on to the mouth-to-

CPR.

mouth breathing portion of CPR. 

To execute the jaw -thrust technique, one must sit above the individual's head. Place one hand on each

side of

the individual's jaw and lift it so that it protrudes forward, as if the i ndividual has an underbite. 1. Place your mouth over the mouth of the victim. 2. Continue with opening the airway. If you are trained in CPR, confident in your abilities (not rusty), and have performed 30 chest compressions, then proceed to open the individual's airway using the head -tilt, chin-lift technique [14], o r the jaw thrust if you suspect a neck/head/spine injury. Place your palm on their forehead and slightly tilt their head backwards. Then, using your

Once the individual's head is tilted and

other hand, gently lift the chin forward to

their chin is raised, check that their mouth

widen the airway and make it easier to give

is clear of any obstructions to their airway.

oxygen.

Then, with one hand, pinch the victim's



nostrils shut and completely cover their

Take 5 to 1 0 seconds to ensure you are

mouth with your own. Make a seal with

breathing normally. Check for chest

your mouth so that no air can get out while

movement, listen for breathing, and see

you try to give the person a rescue breath.

if the victim's breath can be felt on your cheek or ear.

131





You should know that mouth-to-mouth

Again, the goal is not to always revive

CPR can spread diseases from the

them or continue indefinitely, but

person who needs help to the person

rather to buy them time until

who is trying to help them.

paramedics arrive.

saliva 



Remove any vomit, mucus, or extra from

In traditional CPR, one cycle is made up of about 30 chest compressions and

their mouth before

touching it.

2 rescue breaths. This is true for both

If a person's mouth is severely injured

adults and children. 

or cannot be ope ned, rescue breathing

When performing CPR on a child between 1 and 8 years of age, you can

can also be mouth-to-nose breathing.

inflate their lungs with gentler breaths. 1. Repetition of cycles as necessary.

4. Start by taking two deep breaths. Once your mouth is over the other person's,

Repeat 30 chest compressions and two

forcefully breathe into their mouth for at

rescue breaths after the initial two rescue

least one second and observe their chest to

breaths. Repeat as necessary until the

determine whether it rises slightly. [17] If

victim becomes responsive or until the

so, administer the second breath. If it does

arrival of emergency medical personnel.

not work, repeat the head tilt and chin lift

Remember that chest compressions attempt

and try again. A person's life is in your

to

hands, so avoid being overly timid or

circulation

while

rescue

breathing provides so me (but not enough)

repulsed. 

restore

oxygen to prevent tissue death, particularly in the brain.

Although carbon dioxide is present in exhaled breath, ther e is still sufficient oxygen to benefit a victim during CPR.

132

Method 3: Performing CPR on Infants

3. Place the infant in between your

(Under 1 Year)

forearms.

2. Evaluate the situation to determine



if the patient's airway is blocked.

Place the infant so that they are facing u p

Choking is the most common cause of

on one forearm. Cradle the back of their

infant suffocati on. You must evaluate

head in the same forearm's hand. Place

the situation to determine whether the

your other forearm over the baby's front

airway

and turn them over so that they are face

is completely or partially

obstructed.

down, keeping them sandwiched betwe en

When a baby coughs or gags, the

your arms at all times.

airway is partially obstructed. Allow



the infant to continue coughing, as this is the most effective way to dislodg



and

Reduce your lower arm to your thigh. The infant's head should b e positioned

The airway is completely blocked if

below their chest.

the infant is unable to cough and



begins to turn bright red or blue. To

Note that back blows should only be administered if the infant is awake. If

dislodge the obstruction, you will need

the infant loses consciousness, bypass

to perform back blows and chest

the back blows and move directly to

compressions. 

Hold the jaw with your thumb

fingers as you rotate the baby's head.

e

the obstruction. 

-

chest compressions and rescue breaths.

If your infant is ill, experiencing an

4. Back blows are used to dislodge an

allergic reaction, or suffocating due to

airway obstruction.

a swollen airway, you can perform chest compressions and rescue breaths, but you must immediately contact local emergency services.

133



As you turn your arms, the infant should remain encircled by your arms.



Remember to remain calm and speak to the baby in a soothin g manner. They are unable to

Use the heel of your dominant hand to

comprehend your words, but they

deliver five distinct but gentle back blows

can perceive your calm and

between the baby's shoulder blades.

affectionate tone.



Hold the infant's jaw between your thumb and forefinger to continue supporting their neck and head.



When performing CPR on an infant, there is often a fine line between being effective and causing harm. To save a life, however, a minor musculoskeletal

6. Place your fingers in the middle of

injury is a small price to pay.

the infant's chest. Place the tips of two or three fingers in the middle of the baby's chest while supporting the baby's head and neck with the other hand. Utilize your thumb and fingers to support

baby's

jaw

while

sandwiching it between your forearms.

5. Place the infant on his or her back.

The lower arm should support the

After administering the gentle back

baby's back on the opposite thigh, and

blows, place your free hand on the

the head should be lower than t he rest

baby's head and rest your arm firmly

of the baby's body.

along the baby's spine. Turn the infant



back over so that they are facing up. 

the

The infant could also be placed on their back on a firm, flat surface,

Do not lif t the infant's head as you

such as a table or the floor.

turn them, as doing so could force the obstruction back into their throat. Keep your head lowered.

134



The fingers should be placed in the

You do not need to pinch a child's nose as

center of the baby's chest, between

you would an adult's. Instead, seal the

the nipples.

baby's airways by placing your entire mouth over his or her nose and mouth.

7. Compress the chest gently.

First, be sure to remove any vomit, blood, mucus, or saliva. 

Provide two rescue breaths. Deliver one puff of air into the mouth of the infant. If the chest moves, administer the second breath.

Straight down, dep ress the chest by



approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). If the

administering

the

second

breath, attempt to clear the airway

infant is conscious, perform only five

again if the chest does not move.

compressions. If the infant is unresponsive,



administer 30 compressions. 

Before

Do not take deep breaths through your lungs. Use the muscles in your cheeks to exhale air gently.

Rapidly compress at a rate of 100 times per minute.



Each compression must be consistent

9. Reiterate the cycle as necessary.

and not abrupt or shaky. 

Ensure that the baby's ribs are not injured during compressions.

8. Breathe while covering the baby's nose and mouth.

Repeat chest compressions and re scue breaths as necessary until the infant begins breathing again or until the arrival of emergency medical personnel.

135



If you suspect that the infant is

Project 26: How to Splint

choking on a foreign object, you

a fractured Leg

should examine their mouth after 

each chest compression.

Experts believe that a lower leg fracture

Each cycle sh ould consist of 30

requires rapid medical attention. Therefore,

chest compressions and two rescue

if you suspect that your leg is broken,

breaths.

consult a physician immediately. However, you may need to splint the leg if you break it while camping or hiking and are far from medical assistance. According to research, a splint can immobilize your leg, thereby stabilizing the fracture and reducing the likelihood of it worsening. After splinting the fracture, you should see a doctor to begin your road to recovery. Part 1: Providing First Aid in an Emergency

1. To remove garments from the area, use scissors. Any treatment you must perform will be impeded by excess apparel. If you don't have many other things available, you can also use the excess clothing to staunch the bleeding. If you do

136

not have scissors, you may use a knife. However, make sure the blade is pointed away from you and the sufferer. 2. This should stop all bleeding.

Prior to placing it on the fracture, wrap the ice in a cloth (a towel or cotton clothing will suffice). Frost will minimize edema. Additionally, it will help alleviate some of the pain. If you have an ice pack, it is most Before treating the fracture, the bleeding

effective and least messy. Additionally,

must be stopped., especially if it is severe.

you can use a bag of frozen food, such as

Apply pressure with a cloth to the wound.

peas.

If the cloth becomes drenched, apply another cloth on top. Do not remove the bandage from the injury. To assist in stemming the flow of blood, lift the affected leg above the heart. 

Always use gloves to prevent the transmission of blood-borne infections. Put on gloves before washing or disinfecting your hands. Be aware that

4. If necessary, the wound should be

if you choose to treat a bleeding patient

cleaned. You should only clean the wou nd

without gloves, you and the patient

at this stage if it is extremely polluted,

may be exposed to each ot her's

shallow, or if hospital care is delayed. In

bloodborne infections.

addition to cleansing the incision to limit the danger of infection, it is essential to

2. Apply ice to it.

stop the bleeding, which can be lethal much faster than infection.

137

Cardboard and tent poles work nicely for

Part 2: Bracing the Leg

this purpose. The splint should stretch from just above the knee to just below the heel of the afflicted leg. This will provide maximal support for the fractured leg. If you do not have a first -aid splint on hand, you can construct one out of any ha rd object, such as a stick.

1.Do not force or attempt to set a fractured bone . This is of the utmost importance. This should only be performed by a physician, as you could potentially cut an artery or cause nerve damage. Instead of attempting to influence the region, merely attempt to paralyze it. 3. Wrap the splint in a suitable material. Utilize fabric or tape to fasten the splint. Also available is duct tape. Tie the splint above and below the injury, ensuring that the joint above and below the damage is also splinted. This will aid in the splint's stabilization. Avoid wrapping it too tightly, since this can cut off circulation. 2. Place the splinting material as gently as possible parallel to the leg. The leg should be padded with foam padding, a cushion, cardboard.

a

blanket, Then,

or

corrugated

a rigid, structured

substance should be applied to the sides of the leg to prevent it from moving.

138

4.Examine the patient for a pulse

1. Move the leg only as much as

beneath the splint. If there is none, the

necessary. This is vital to avoid causing

splint is likely wrapped excessively firmly.

further harm or aggravating the pain. An

Remove the splint and recheck. During

increase in discomfort or injury can induce

splinting,

shock in a patient. Ensure that the leg

circulation

is

crucial

for

maintaining the health of the limb.

remains stable and still.

6. Ensure that the splint fits snugly on

2. Examine the region beneath the

the leg. Avoiding really painful spo ts

break. If it is bloated, going pale, or

can assist with this. The individual you

becoming cold to the touch, vascular

are splinting will have a decent

supply may be disturbed. Vital is restoring

understanding of whether or not the

vascular flow, which is best done in a

splint is comfortable, and they will let

hospital. For severe shock, medical

you

treatment is required, and there are few

know. If the splint causes

discomfort, untie it, adjust it, and

things that can be done in the wilderness.

possibly wrap it less tightly.

Ensure the patient stays hydrated with

Part 3: Prevention and Treatment of

water until aid arrives or until you can

Shock

transport them to the emergency room.

139

3. If shock develops, try to lift the legs

Project 27 : How to Put

above the head. This may improve blood

Together a First Aid Kit

circulation to the heart. [16] Although there are no trials demonstrating the efficacy of

for Your House

leg elevation for shock, it may be beneficial.

Because unexpected events can take place

However, you should not

at any time and in any location, you and

elevate the afflicted person's legs if they

your family need to be ready for them. A

simultaneously have a head or ab domen

straightforward but essential component of

injury. Additionally, elevating an injured extremity

will

be painful and

getting ready for an emergency is maki ng

can

sure that your home is equipped with a first

exacerbate the injury.

aid kit that is fully stocked. You can buy first aid kits that are already assembled at the store, but it is not difficult to put together your own, and you can personalize it to meet the requirements tha t are unique to your household. The First Part: Choosing Your Gear, Placing It, and Taking Care of It 4. Utilize modest pain medications to treat pain. Typically, acetaminophen will work (assuming the injured person does not have an allergy or some

other

contraindication to the medicine). Some studies

recommend avoiding NSAIDs

(non-steroidal

anti-inflammatory 1. Opt for a container of good quality.

medicines, such as ibuprofen or Advil)

You have the option of purchasing

after a fracture, as they are believed to

either pre-filled first aid kits or first aid

impede fracture healing and increase

kit containers that are empty. On the

bleeding.

other hand, it is highly likely that you

140

•

already have a container that is

containers. You can also use these

perfectly adequate for a first aid kit.

types of containers to store food. •

An additional option is to use a large

Use a permanent pen to cl early label

plastic container that is translucent,

the container you choose. For example,

resistant to water, rigid or flexible, and

you could write "FIRST AID" on the

has either a zipp er or a latch -top lid.

container more than once.

Because of this, the contents of the

2. Ensure that your equipment can be

container can be determined with

accessed quickly.

relative ease. •

You can easily carry a larger first aid kit with more parts in a backpack or a small duffel bag.

•

Lunchboxes are yet another wonderful option available to you. The ideal

•

•

container for a first-aid kit is one that is

You do not want your first-aid kit to be

roomy, has multiple access points, is

buried in the back of a closet or misplaced

portable, and can withstand some

because it is not returned to the same

degree of moisture.

location after each use when your child is

Because it needs to be simple to

wailing in pain because of a "boo -boo" on

transport to the emergency location, a

her knee. In other words, you do not want

handle is the best option.

it to be misplaced.

You should also be able to organize the •

contents of the kit according to the

your first aid kit is and put it

type of item, so that it is simple to find

somewhere that is both easy to see and

what you need. Labeled zip -close bags

easy to get to, like a shelf in your linen

are a useful solution, especially when it

closet.

comes to storing non -rigid containers. Look

for smaller,

Tell everyone in your home where

•

clear plastic

Ensure that younger children are aware of the location of the kit, but ensure

containers such as those used for craft

that it is kept secure so that they are

supplies or even disposable food

unable to access it.

storage containers with snap -on lids to

3. Inform your family about the

use as lunchboxes or other rigid

contents of the kit.

141

Make sure that everyone in your home who Nobody wants to get their hands on a first

is old enough to understand the function of

aid kit only to find that all of the bandages

a first aid kit is aware of where it is kept

are gone and the pain medication has been

and when it should be retrieved, and

out of date for too long. Maintain a

communicate this information to each

consistent check on both the supply

other.

quantities and the expiration dates. •

Teach younger children, who s hould •

not be using the kit's materials, the

that you should change the batteries in

location of the kit so that they can

your smoke detectors before the start

show it to a visitor, a relative, a

and after the end of Daylight Saving

babysitter, or someone else in a similar

Time, which occurs in the spring and

capacity. However, ensure that young

fall, respectively. You should also

children are unable to access the kit by

review the contents of your first -aid kit

putting it in a location that is out of

at this time and add more supplies if

their reach, such as on a high shelf. •

It's likely that someone has told you

they are depleted.

Describe to older children as well as

Compile a list of items that should be

adults when and how each component

included in the set.

of the kit should be used. As a point of reference, make use of a pamphlet with first aid instructions like the ones that are offered by the American Red Cross, and make sure to include one in the kit.. 4. Keep your equipment up to date.

Your first aid kit sh ould be stocked with the items recommended in Part 2 of this

142

guide, and a list of each item should be

made easier if you have a variety of

written down on a sheet of paper that can

options to choose from.

be kept inside the kit. •



On the kit's checklist, write the number

with a zipper that has been clearly

of items (ten tiny bandages, for

labeled using a permanent marker.

example) and t he expiration date (for

Include: 

drugs or ointments) next to each item. This is required for compliance with



You want to make sure that whoever

One 3 inch roller bandage and one 4 inch roller bandage (ace bandage).



receives the kit is aware, as soon as possible, of what it does and does not include, as well as whether or

Two sterile dressings 5 inches by 9 inches in size

regulations. •

Put all of the bandages in a clear bag

Two bandages in the shape of a triangle.



not the

components are ready to be used.

25 bandages with an adhesive backing, ranging in size.



Ten 4" x 4" gauze pads and five 3" x 3" gauze pads

Part 2: Putting the Final Touches on the 

Kit

A spool of adhesive tape made of cloth

2. Include basic medical supplies.

It is important to be ready to perform first aid tasks such as removing splinters,

1. Be sure to include a selection of

cutting bandages, and other similar

different bandages. When it comes to

activities without having to search through

treating cuts and scrapes, having a wide

the junk drawer. Also, place these inside a

selection of bandaging materials in a

bag with a zip top and label it. Include the

variety of sizes and styles is necessary.

following without a doubt:

Your efforts to provide first aid will be

143



•

Two pairs of gloves that are not latex -

packaged.

free 

A space blanket that has been pre -

•

cleaning wipes (only for external

Turkey baster (for flushing out wounds)

cleaning) 

Tweezers

•

Eye protection is a must.



A guide to basic first aid procedures.

•

Security pins



Hand sanitizer

•

Finger splint made of aluminum



Compact and pointed scissors

•

Petroleum emulsion



A

non -mercury-containing

oral 4. Make a separate section that is

thermometer 

Cotton balls and a variety of swabs



Plastic bags with resealable zippers

dedicated to drugs.

(for medical waste disposal) 

Breathing barrier mask used during CPR



A quick application of ice to the face

3. Think

about

Put

incorporating

these in a separate pile from the bandages

additional tools.

and the tools, and label them very clearly. Always double check the dates of expiration. Most of these things should be kept in smaller sizes that are good for traveling, trials, or first aid kits: •

Aloe vera gel

If there is enough room in your kit, you

•

Anti-cough and anti-cold medication

might want to consider putting any medical

•

Calamine cream

supplies that aren't absolutely necessary

•

laxatives

but could be helpful in a separate bag that

•

Antacids

you label. Examples include:

•

Anti-diarrhea medicine

•

Pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen, and

•

Masking tape Needle for sewing

acetaminophen) •

144

Hydrocortisone cream

•

Antihistamines

5. Customize your kit by adding the prescriptions that you and your family need.

Part 3: Making Mobile Kits 6. Always carry a travel or car kit with you.

It is a good idea to pack modest dosages of prescription medications for each member of the family, especially in car or travel kits. These medicines should be kept in A

small containers with clear labels and

first aid kit is an item that should never be

written instructions on how to use them.

missing from either a person's house or any •

Maintain

strict

vigilance

over

vehicle that they own. Even though some

prescription drug expiration dates. •

cars come with a first -aid kit, you should

If someone in your family suffers from

still check it out and, if necessary, add to

severe allergies and has a prescription

its contents to make sure it has everything

for an epi-pen, make sure you keep one

you might need.

in your emergency kit along with the •

instructions so that a guest can assist in •

A travel kit should be similar to the

the event of a medical emergency.

one you have at home. However, you

Even for home kits, a small stock of

should

tailored medical supplies, such as a bee

following items to make it useful on

sting kit, may be useful in case your

the road: a flashlight with batteries,

medicine cabinet runs out of supplies.

waterproof matches, a solar/crank

This could include antihistamines, pain

charger for phones, sunscreen, insect

relievers, and ointments.

repellent, a whistle, phone numbers for

think

about

adding

the

your doctor, poison control, and other

145

emergency

services, and medical

consent and history forms for each member of the family. •

Ensure that the emergency kit for your automobile is easily accessible; do not conceal it in the well for the spare tire that is located beneath the floor of the trunk.

It is wonderful to have a large kit with a

7. Make a camping kit for yourself if

little bit of everything, but it is also

you're going camping.

wonderful to have a small kit that is easily transportable and can be with you almost all the time. •

A purse kit with one ointment package, three cleansing wipes, two gauze pads, and ten bandages is available for purchase commercially. You can make a useful first aid kit that is small enough to fit in a handbag, diaper bag,

A camping kit should have many of the

backpack, or something similar by

same things as a car kit, plus extra scissors,

putting small amounts of your most-

waterproof matches, a space blanket, duct

used medicines in a bag with a zip -top

tape, a solar or hand -crank phone charger,

closure.

and a whistle. 8. Carry water purification tablets in case you have to drink from an untreated body of water. This will protect you from getting sick. 8. Always keep a small first-aid kit in your purse. 9. Put together the necessary kits according to their contents. Pack travel kits that are clearly labeled and

146

are designed to meet the specif ic

Chapter 10: Home

medical needs of each member of your

Security

family if any of those members have • •

special medical requirements.

To maintain my home's security, I wou ld

An allergy emergency kit is most likely

install shutters made of 34-inch plywood

the most common example.

on every window and door I am not

Make sure that the individual's name

utilizing. These are already made, so I do

and

not need to figure out how to do this

the

phrase

"ALLERGY

EMERGENCY KIT" are prominently

without electricity.

displayed on a small, sturdy, water -

•

resistant container that you use for this

Even though these are NOT bulletproof,

kit.

they

Before deciding which medications to

concealment than those that are not. In

include, consult with your attending

keeping with the concept of light

physician.

concealing, I would put light-blocking

Benadryl

Antihistamines

(like

security

and

have

and/or epi-pens are the ca ndidates with

yet to construct shutters. Check out our

the

DIY laser home security system alarm you

highest likelihood of being

can also incorporate in your home.

Add at least one extra dose of each

Project 28: Laser Security

medication to your routine in case you

System Alarm DIY

need to wait for medical attention. •

better

fabric over the windows for which I

or Zyrtec), prednisone,

included. •

provide

Print or write all medication usage

To make your laser security system alarm,

instructions clearly on a piece of sturdy

you need:

paper or a notecard, and consider laminating it for extra protection. Include the doctor's phone number and any other important information about the patient, such as if they have any other allergies.

1. Laser

147

5. Bc547 Transistor

2. 9v battery

6. LDR

3. Buzzer

7. 9v Battery connector.

4. 2.24 ohm Resistor

Procedures:

148

Step 1: C onnect your transistor and resistor. There are three parts of the transistor, they are: collector, base and emitter. Connect your resistor to the base and connector.

Step 4: Connect the positive wire to the transistor and the negative wire to the LDR.

Step 5: Connect the battery connector. Step 2: Connect one side of the LDR to

Connect the negative wire to the LDR and

the base.

the positive wire to the transistor.

Step 3: Connect red and black wire s to the

Step 6: Get your box, put some holes at

base of buzzer.

one end of the box, which is needed for the sound of the buzzer and another hole on

149

the side for the LDR. Then you put

Step 7: Connect your battery to the battery

everything inside.

connector. As soon as you connect it, the alarm will start beeping. Then you put your battery in the box and close it

Point your laser to the LDR, and the beeping will stop.

Your device is ready! This device can be used for safety purposes. When anything interferes with

150

the laser beam, the device will start beeping, which will alert you on the presence of an intruder.

LONG TERM NO GRID SURVIVAL PROJECT

151

Chapter 11: Projects on

Project 29: How to Start a

Growing and Sourcing

Garden

for Food

Part 1: Choosing a

In any grid-down scenario, food supplies

Garden Style

will be among the hardest hit. Farmers will be unable to transport their goods to wholesalers, and wholesalers would be unable to transport food to processing mills. There will be an emptying of stores and spoilage of food on farms. You will only have access to food you can produce yourself. Vegeta ble gardening

1. Decide what you want to grow or

may appear to be a simple activity, but it is

achieve in your garden.

significantly more complicated than it

There are

numerous types of gardens and uses for

appears.

gardens, so consider what your ideal When we first began, it took me 3 years to

garden would provide. Among the

obtain a decent yield from my garden. The

numerous types of gardens are:

first two years were spent establishing the •

garden, particularly the soil.

Plant a vegetable garden. This type of garden may be the most popular and

Begin working on your garden before you

practical. By growing your own, you

need it. Thus, when the time comes, you

can save money and increase your

and your

consumption of fresh vegetables.

family will already have

something growing to eat.

•

Plant a flower garden. A flower garden adds beauty to your yard and can provide you with a tranquil retreat. If your primary objective is to beautify your property, a flower garden may be the best option. You can plant perennials, annuals, or a mixed garden.

152

•

Hummingbird or butterfly garden. You

in containers indoors, so container

cannot

gardening may be ideal for apartment

cultivate

butterflies

or

dwellers.

hummingbirds, but you can plant pollen-rich wildflowers like dill,

•

fennel, and milkweed to attract them to

viable option if you live in a region

your yard. A butterfly or hummingbird

with good soil that is not too rocky or

garden is an ideal type of garden for

sandy.

children to plan. •

Growing a garden in the ground is a

•

A garden for wildlife. A wildlife

If growing your garden in the ground is not a viable option, you should

garden is one that helps to sustain the

consider purchasing containers or

local animal population by providing

constructing raised beds. Above -

food and shelter. Usually, these a re

ground beds are advantageous because

plants that are native to your region, so

they are easier on the back and can be

to plan your garden, you would need to

relocated as desired. Make sure that the

learn what your native species are.

pots or beds are big enough for the 2. Take into account the amount of

plants you want to grow and that they

available space.

have enough drainage. •

If you have limited outdoor space but still want a garden, you can cultivate a vertical garden. These types of gardens utilize small planters or stacked crates as well as plants with upright growth.

7. Determine the amount of sunlight your plants will receive. Many plants require six to eight hours of direct If you have ample room, you can plant a

sunlight to thrive. If you do not have a

garden in the soil. You can also plant a

location that receives this amount of

garden in containers if you have limited

sunlight, you can still plant a garden.

space or simply prefer not to plant in the

Simply choose plants that thrive in the

ground. You can cultivate a variety of

shade or with less sunlight.

plants in pots on your patio or in a sunny

•

area of your yard. Some plants even thrive

On a sunny day, ch eck the area where you intend to grow your garden several

153

times per day to determine how long

2. Examine the soil

the sun shines there. For instance, you could check the area at 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. and make a note if the sun is shining at those times. If the sun is shining during two or three of your checks, it is likely that sun -loving plants will flourish there. A healthy soil will contain sufficient Part 2: Preparing Your Garden Plot and

quantities of lime, phosphorus, nitrogen,

Equipment

and potassium. Determine how much of each you have in your soil and

1. Choose a plot. When designing a

what you

need to add for optimal plant growth. If

garden, its location is essential. Determine

you are planting a container garden, you

whether the area yo u want to use receives

have nothing to worry about. You can

adequate sunlight. Then, consider whether

simply use potting soil suitable for the

the size is appropriate for what you intend

plants you intend to cultivate.

to do with the garden and how you will water it. If the garden is large, you should

•

A home soil testing kit can be

be able to pull a hose to it, and if it is

purchased at many hardwa re and

small, you should be

garden stores. Follow the instructions

able to carry a full

watering can to it.

to determine the characteristics of your



garden's soil.

If you intend to cultivate a container •

garden, you must still identify a

You can collect soil samples from around your garden, send them to a

suitable location for the containers.

state-certified soil testing lab or

The area should have ample sunlight,

university extension service, and for a

space for the plants to grow upwards,

nominal fee, you will receive the

and easy access to a water s ource, or

results of a soil analysis within a week.

be situated in a location where it is

This is much simpler than testing the

convenient to bring water to them.

soil on your own, but it is more expensive.

154

•

•

•

Collect multiple soil samples from

If the results of your pH test indicate

different areas of your garden to ensure

that your soil is alkaline (above 7),

accurate test results.

neutralize it by adding lime or wood

Test you r soil's pH to determine if it

ash. If the pH of your soil is below 7,

needs to be adjusted. Use a pH testing

add peat moss or decaying leaves.

kit or conduct your own test at home to

Depending on the plants you intend to

analyze the soil in your garden. Certain

cultivate, it may not be necessary to

plants prefer different pH levels, but it

adjust the pH. It is easier to cultivate

is ideal to have soil as close to neutral

plants that can thrive in the current

as possible, with a pH of 7.

soil.

3. Get your soil ready. Once your soil and

4. Conduct research in your area of

pH tests are completed, prepare your soil

expertise.

by adding the essential nutrients for plant

information about the local growing

growth.

conditions. Consult the Internet, a local

•

garden Add organic matter to your soil to

It is essential to gather

consultant,

or

your

county

extension service.

improve its nutrient content. You may •

utilize compost (if you have your own compost pile), decomposing leaves,

end dates so you know when to plant.

peat moss, or decomposed animal

Planting too early or too late can result

manure. If you do not have easy access

in the death of your seeds or plants, so

to these items, you can purchase them

it is crucial to know when to begin. •

at local gardening centers. •

Determine the average frost start and

Add

patterns that may have an impact on

fertilizer to your soil to

compensate

for

any

Become familiar w ith local weather

your garden.

nitrogen, •

phosphorus, or potassiu m deficiencies.

Investigate the optimal time to harvest

The label on the fertilizer bag will tell

fruits, berries, and vegetables in your

you exactly how much of each of these

region. Some of these may be easy to

nutrients is present. The numbers 5-10-

understand, but knowing when to

5, for example, tell you that the

harvest others may take a bit more

fertilizer contains 5 percent nitrogen,

knowledge. •

10 percent phosphorous, and 5 percent potassium.

Create a planting schedule for each of your specific plants based on their

155

habitat

and

growth requirements.

1. Decide whether you want to start your

Others may not require planting until

garden

the summer.

germinate successfully from seeds. Check

5. Gather your tools. To make gardening

from

seeds.

Many

plants

your local garden center for seed packets

as simple and relaxing as possible, it is

and read the labels to determine how long

essential to have the proper equipment.

they take to grow, the optimal planting

At a minimum, use a shovel, gloves, a

time, and the amount of water they require.

gardening

trowel, a garden fork,



baskets or buckets to collect weeds,

Depending on what you are growing, germinating seeds can take anywhere

and a watering can.

from one to four months, so it is important to plan ahead. 

A pack of seeds costs only a few dollars or cents, making it the least expensive option. Each mature plant purchased from a gardening store can

Other tools are available for purchase,

cost between $1 and $50. 

but they are not required for a small to •

•

Growing from seed allows you to start

medium-sized garden.

the seed either indoors in a container or

You may also need a wheelbarrow,

directly in the ground. However,

rakes and hoes, loppers, and a post-

planting a seed in a container and

hole digger for a large garden.

starting it indoors may produce a

Consider installing a sprinkler system

healthier plant than starting it outdoors.

if you lack the time or ability to

Because you won't have to wait for the

manually water your garden.

last frost, it may also provide your plant with an earlier start.

Part 3: Choosing Seeds and Plants

2. Consider established plants.

156

transplanting

The advantage of transplanting a

alliums, which you can plant in your

mature plant into your soil or container

garden and enjoy year after year.

is that it is already partially grown and will

Part 4: Planting Your Garden

produce fruit more quickly.

Additionally, the plant is more likely to survive and flourish. Once the rest of your garden is ready, it only takes a few minutes of work to move mature plants. 

Check your local garden center for 1. Arrange your plants. Choose the

mature plants and examine their

location for each plant in the garden.

tags to determine if they are

Consider the amount of sunlight they

suitable for the type of garden you

require as well as their eventual size.

intend to create.

Starting with small plants can be

3. Investigate flower bulbs.

deceiving because some of them may grow to be very big and need bigger plots or containers. 

It is generally safe to leave about 10 inches (25.4 cm) between each plant, but check the seed package or plant tag

If

to see how much space is needed.

you decide to cultivate flowers, you have 

the option of planting bulbs as well. It is

You should also leave sufficient space

simple to plant bulbs, and some of them

between rows so that you can walk

(the perennials) will return year after year.

between them. Allow approximately

Some bulbs are annuals that must be

18 inches (45.7 cm) between rows. 

replanted annually. 

species. For instance, you can plant all Remember that bulbs bloom for only a

your vegetables in one section of your

few weeks at a time. 

Attempt to group your plants by

garden while keeping your flowers and

Check your local garden center for bulbs, such as tulips, daffodils,

berries in another.

and



Identify the tallest plants, as they will create shade over time and should only

157

•

be planted near other tall plants or

Place each plant in its hole with care so

plants that require less sunlight and

as not to harm any part of it. Use your

more shade.

fingers or a trowel to slowly scoop soil

2. Plant your seeds or vegetation.

over the roots and back into the hole. Before planting a plant whose roots are root bound, or wrapped around the container, massage and loosen them with your fingers. This will help the plant's roots grow out into the soil around them instead of continuing to wrap around the root ball and choke the

plant. Cover

with

mulch.

Incorporating as many nutrients as

Utilizing the plan you have developed, position each plant in the garden. Dig a

possible into the soil will help your

hole that is twice as wide and as deep as

plants grow strong and healthy. Mulch

the root ball, or as instructed on the seed

will aid in this endeavor and also

packet.

prevent the growth of we eds. Spread a layer of mulch approximately one inch

Seed depth can range from 14 inches (0.6

thick between each plant.

cm) to 2 inches (5 .1 cm) depending on the

•

type of plant you are planting.

decomposed leaves as mulch around your vegetable plants.

It makes no difference whether you plant in •

a container or in the ground. Use the

As mulch, wood chips and bark are beneficial to flower growth.

planting depth recommendations listed on

3. Water your plants.

the seed packet. •

For the best results, add straw or

Do not dig an excessively deep hole. Dig only as deeply as necessary to accommodate all of the roots without burying the stem or leaves. The soil in the ground should match the soil of the plant being planted.

158

The

first

few weeks after planting

If you are cultivating a vegetable

necessitate a bit more water to facilitate

garden, you may wish to erect a fence

root

around it to deter wildlife. This is not

establishment.

However,

avoid

overwatering your garden by flooding the

required, but it can be helpful if you

top layer. You only need to supply

experience frequent invasions.

approximately one inch of water per week, so if it rains, you may no



t need to water

Remember that deer can leap very high. To prevent them from

your garden at all.

jumping into your garden, your •

Water the plants with a watering can or

fence will need to be at least 8 feet

a spray attachment for your hose. They

(2.4 m) tall.

should be irrigated from a height to

6. Take care of your garden.

avoid damaging their leaves and stalks. •

After a few days of daily watering, you can water less frequent ly. Move to watering approximately every two days.

4. Observe your garden and remove weeds frequently. Once your garden is established, give it time to flourish. If properly maintained, a healthy garden

When your garden has reached maturity,

will endure for multiple seasons.

you should harvest your hard work. Pick or

Inspect your garden fo r weeds on a

cut vegetables, berries, herbs, and flowers

regular basis and remove any that you

with care for personal use. Or, you can just

find.

take a walk and relax in your garden if you've designed it to make your home look

5. Consider installing a fence.

better.

159

Procedure:

Project 30: How To Make

1. Drill some holes under your container

A Homemade Organic

to let some air easily

Compost For Your Garden Most of the people trying to grow vegetables or crops fail in the first year, this is mostly because not all areas have rich enough land to be able to grow crops. In some areas, it is vital that you make

2. Shred the banana peels and kitchen

your own compost and without it, it will be

waste into tiny pieces to help compost

extremely difficult to grow anything.

break down faster

Requirements: 

Get a container either a bucket, waste bin or a garden pot



A shallow tub or tray to collect drained water



Egg shells for calcium



Neem leaves for minerals, vitamins and enzymes and help plants resistan t to pest



Garden soil to help keep the smell away and help composting process



Compost will help introduce bacteria and earthworm



Banana peel for potassium, nitrogen, phosphorous and magnesium



Green kitchen waste for nitrogen and

You can also add wood chips, straws or

help increase the heat process.

hays,

160

shrub pruning,

pine

needles,

shredded

papers/newspapers,

coffee

grounds etc.

3. Layer the bottom of the container with 1 inch of garden soil

5. Add your kitchen green waste now

4. Add 1 inch of compost to start the pile to help introduce the bacteria

161

7. Add the egg shells

6. Add your chopped banana peels

8. Add the neem leaves

162

Repeat the process and add multiple layers

11. To avoid any spill, place a shallow tray

of kitchen waste, neem leaves, compost,

or container underneath your container

and others respectively. 9. Now add enough garden soil to keep the smell away.

10. Press the mix with your hands to compress it.

12. Water the mix thoroughly

163

13. Keep the container in full sunlight to help the mix break down quicker but it will need more water.

15. Keep the drainages pot under the container for at least 10-15 days

14. Re-use the collected drained water as it contains useful bacteria and essential nutrients

164

16. Whenever the compost pile is dried 18. Make sure the mixture stays moist but

water it again

not too wet

Do this often 17. It is a good idea tom mix up the compost pile on a regular basis to encourage the growth of the right kind of bacteria and help the compost to decompose faster

Your compost pile is almost ready

165

21. To fasten the process, cover the pile with anything you have - wood chips, plastic sheeting, dry leaves, carpet scraps etc. this will help retain moisture and heat.

19. Every few days turn your compost pile with a shovel or a stick in order to aerate your pile and aid decomposing

22. Water the pile 20. At this stage you can see some worms. Which

makes the compost more

porous

and

turn the waste into

fertilizer.

166

It usually takes about 2 -3 months for the compost

to

be

completely

24. Once compost is ready, separate out all

ready.

the leaves.

Depending on your weather conditions and the components of your pile. 23. After 60 -70 days, your compost is ready to be used in the garden.

167

26. Add compost to your plants in small

25. You can store your compost in poly

proportions

bags or in simple garbage cans. Just keep the bag away from direct sun

You can water your plant after adding the compost

168

There are many advantages that can come

Chapter 12: Animal

from keeping chickens in our backyard.

Husbandry

Chickens are capable of producing eggs

Vegetables are wonderful, but you also

that are truly fresh in addition to excellent

need

meat that is high in nutrients. And while

animal

protein. This can be

accomplished by raising chickens, bunnies,

our

children

are

learning

about

and even fish f or your family. But not if

responsibility and the development of

you do not learn prior to needing it. For

animals, we might enjoy sitting on our

instance, how do you identify animal

back porch and watching the birds.

illness? What do you do when someone is

Before you go out and buy some fresh

ill? How do you ensure that your livestock

chicks this spring, I have compiled a list of

reproduce and provide you with food?

six suggestions that can help you get started with raising chickens.

Project 31: Raising chickens Both chicken meat and eggs are excellent

1.

sources of protein, and both can be

Determine which breed is best suited to your requirements

obtained from chickens. In order to get the

There is a wide variety of appearances,

best meat and eggs from your chickens,

sizes, and hues available in the world of

you need to learn the correct procedures for

poultry breeds. People who want to raise

keeping chickens as well as how to care for

chickens for eggs or meat are advised to

them.

start with common breeds at first.

With a coop, some chicks, and a strategy

Think about what it is you want to

for the long run, a family can raise their

accomplish with your flock. If you want

own flock of chickens in their backyard,

fresh eggs, you should think about getting

which not only gives them access to fresh

White Leghorn hybrids, which lay white

eggs that are good for them but also gives

eggs; Plymouth Barred Rocks, which lay

them the satisfaction of seeing a baby chick

brown eggs; Rhode Island Reds, which lay

mature into a hen that lays eggs. The first

brown eggs; Blue Andalusians, which lay

thing you should do when starting a flock

white eggs; or Ameraucanas/Easter Eggers

of chickens in your backyard is to make a

(blue eggs). Cornish Cross chickens reach

plan.

maturity at an earlier age than other breeds, making them ideally suited for meat

169

production. If you want to produce both

against Marek's disease and coccidiosis in

eggs and meat from your chickens, you

order to prevent the chicks from becoming

should look into dual -purpose breeds like

ill.

the Plymouth Barred Rock, Sussex, or Buff During Purina® Flock Talk events, a

Orpingtons. Breeds from other parts of t he

number of local Purina® stores will sell

world are beautiful to look at and make

chicks right in the store.Check with the

wonderful pets.

business owner in your area to learn more about the breeds, the timing, and the availability. 2.

Determine the total number of birds that you want to buy

4.

Begin preparing your incubator

The number of birds in your flock and their

A brooder is a warm, draft -free enclosure

sexes may be determined in part by local

that should be used to keep newborn chicks

regulations as well as the goals you have

safe and secure. The brooder needs to have

set for your flock.

a bottom surface that is covered in bedding and a heating lamp inside of it. It also

Keep in mind that the immature birds,

needs to be completely enclosed. If the

known as chicks, will eventually mature

birds tend to co ngregate in one area of the

into fully grown birds. Create a spending

brooding chamber, you should try to avoid

plan that accounts for the amount of time

having any square corners there. This will

you will be able to spend with your flock,

prevent the young birds from becoming

the type of housing the birds will require ,

trapped.

how you will collect and utilize the eggs, and what you will do with the birds once

Each chick needs at least two to three

they are no longer productive of eggs. Start

square feet of floor space to call their own

with a small flock of four to six chicks to

for the firs t six weeks of their lives. The

get things going.

temperature in the brooder should be kept at a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

3.

Look for a provider of chickens who

For the first week, the temperature should

has a good reputation

be set to 90 degrees Fahrenheit; after that,

Buy pullorum-typhoid-free chicks from a

the heat should be reduced by 5 degrees

reputable hatchery in the United States that

Fahrenheit each week until it reaches the

is pullorum-typhoid-free. Be certain that

desired temperature. Prepare a spacious

the hatchery gave the chicks vaccinations

170

and sanitized coop for the chicks as soon as

and you will only need one comp lete feed

it is no longer necessary to use the

for layers when the hens begin laying

supplemental heat source. Always make

around week 18 of their lives.

sure there is plenty of fresh, clean water Get your chicks off to a healthy start with a

available at all times, an d make sure it is

complete feed for starters and growers.

refreshed on a regular basis.

Chicks have a requirement for 38 different 5.

Stress the importance of proper

nutrients beginning on day one. Choose a

sanitation

complete diet for starters and growers that

It is important to keep the environment

also includes the Chick StrongTM System to

clean both before the new chicks arrive and

make sure they get all the nutrients they

while they are growing. It is important to

need.

clean all materials before using them , and If you want your chicks to grow into egg -

then again on a weekly basis, because

laying birds, feed them a diet high in

young chicks are susceptible to early health

protein, such as Purina® Start & Grow® or

problems.

Purina® Organic starter-grower. The proper household disinfectants have For meat birds and mixed flocks, choose a

the potential to be efficient. Make sure that

complete feed containing 20% protein,

your disinfectant is safe to use and does not

such as Purina® Flock Raiser® Crumbles.

leave behind any sort of film residue by carefully

This will ensure that the birds grow strong

reading the instructions. A

and healthy.

cleaning solution made of 10% bleach and 90% water can be useful as long as the

When layer chicks reach the age of 18 to

cleaner is well rinsed after each use.

20 weeks, it is time to switch them to a

6.

complete feed with a higher calcium

Construct a diet that you can stick

content, such as Purina® Organic layer

to over the long term

feed, Purina® Layena®, or Purina®

Strong chicks are more l ikely to hatch into

Layena® Plus Omega-3.

robust hens. To ensure your success over the long term, adhere to our "Flock StrongTM Feeding Program." You will only need one complete feed for starters and growers on the first day to get the first egg,

171

•

Project 32: How to Hunt

Small game such as rabbits, hares, squirrels,

There will likely be a large number of

pheasants,

crows,

and

waterfowl, among others.

people out hunting in search of food for

•

their families. That doesn't imply you

Big game like deer, sheep, moose, antelope,

shouldn't, but, you should be cautious.

bear,

bighorn

sheep,

mountain goats, etc. 2. Determine which hunting tools are

This will be a good skill to add to your No

effective.

grid Survival Project skills. Just remember to hunt smaller animals because it can be hard to process and store the meat

of

bigger animals. for the environment and not cruel. To keep yourself and others safe while hunting, you should get the right training and gear.

You won't need an elephant gun to hunt a pheasant, but you can probably use a few

Part 1: Researching Hunting

different guns with birdshot. Find out what the best weapon is for the game you want to hunt. Some weapons to think about are:

1.

Choose the game you want to play.



Black powder rifle.



Centerfire (high-powered) rifle.



Rimfire rifle.



Bow and arrow.



Shotgun.

3. Speak with someone who has gone

"Game" means the type of animal you

hunting. Ask people in your family or

are going to hunt.

at your local sporting goods store if they know someone who can answer

The game you choose to hunt will affect

some of your questions about hunting.

how you hunt, what kind of weapon or trap

You could say:

you use, and where you should hunt. Some •

suggestions for what to hunt:

"I don't have much experience hunting, but I love nature and could use the

172

•

nutrients in venison. Could you tell me more about hunting for deer? "

can follow the scent of game birds, are

4. Find out about state and local rules

often used to hunt upland birds. Then,

and restrictions. Depending on where

these hunting dogs will show the

you live, how rural the country is, and

hunter where the game is so he or she

the culture of the area, the legal

can flush it out and shoot it. •

definitions of different types of game

•

Dogs like pointers and setters, which

People often hunt migratory birds from

and the weapons you can use to hunt

blinds, so a good bird hunter will need

them can be very different.

to find a place where birds eat or drink.

In most places, hunting is regulated by

You might be able to catch one o f

the Department of Natural Resources,

these birds in harvested grain fields,

the Fish and Wildlife Department, or

along waterways, or in other places. •

some other similar group. If you do a

Dogs can be used to hunt small game

quick search online, you should be able

like rabbits and squirrels. Rabbits love

to find the right agency in charge of

beagles, and some breeds are easy to

managing wildlife.

train to catch squirrels (or raccoons or

5. Learn how to hunt the game you

opossums).

want to catch. Part 2: Preparing for a Hunt

The right hunting strategy will make the sport even more fun by giving you the best

1. Attend the necessary safety classes.

chance of catching what you're after. Some

Before you can get a hunting license

of the most common ways to hunt are: •

in many places, you have to take a

You can hunt deer from ground blinds,

mandatory safety course for hunters.

tree stands, by stalking, or by getting a

This is especially true if you plan to

group of people to push prey out of

hunt with a gun. Make sure you

brush or cover. Some places even let

follow all the rules. If you don't, you

you use hounds to go after deer.

173



could be fined or face other legal consequences, such as jail time.

Extra daily medication (e.g. insulin, blood pressure pills, etc.).



2. If you need to, buy a license.

Cell phone or two way radio (in waterproof case).



Appropriate clothing for changeable weather (rain gear, etc.).



Lighters/fire starters.

4. Decide on what you will do. Depending on what you want to hunt, Depending on where you live, you

there will be different ways to do it.

may not need a permit to hunt some

People often use ambush hunting,

animals, like small game, as long as

stalking, and hound hunting to catch

you follow the rules for hunting in

different kinds of prey. You will need

your area.

to learn about your prey to figure out the best way to catch it.

3. Stock up on supplies in case of an

5. Prepare your hunting strategy.

emergency. During your hunt, you

you want to hunt from a p ortable tree

might get hurt and need medical help,

stand, you should practice climbing

or you might have to spend the night

and carrying it before your hunt. The

out in the elements while you wait for

same is true for making a blind or

help. Don't be caught without a plan.

figuring out how to stalk game.

Make sure that you: 

Metal cup.



Waterproof

If

6. Pick a place to go. Your prey is likely to live in a good place. While you're

light

source

(e.g.

hunting, you'll have a b etter chance of

headlamp).

finding your prey here. Find out where



Survival knife.

your prey likes to live, paying attention



Map and compass.

to notes about migration and changes



Whistle or signaling device.

in behavior throughout the year. Then,



First aid kit.

look for places near you where you can



Emergency

rations (granola, meal

hunt your prey. •

replacement bars, etc.). 

Hunting on public land is le gal as long as you don't violate any state, federal,

Emergency shelter (e.g. space blanket).

or regional rules, have the proper

174

license, and follow any state, federal,

able to shoot a clean -killing broad -

or other hunting rules that apply.

head arrow. •

Part 3: Mastering Your Weapon

moose, or bear, should be hunted with larger calibers.

10. Select the appropriate ammunition •

for your game. You will need enough

•

Larger animals, such as e lk, wild boar,

30 mm guns that shoot soft -pointed

knockdown power to kill the animal

bullets of 150 grains or more. When

cleanly, but not so much that you hurt

hunting dangerous game, you need a

it too much. Here are some examples:

gun that can stop animals from

Quail, dove, and other small game

charging. 11. Use your "sight" to your advantage.

birds can be hunted using shotguns and field loads with shot sizes ranging from 6 to 9 and gauges rangin g from 20 to 12 ga. •

Larger shot sizes and, if possible, larger gauge guns are required for turkeys,

•

geese,

grouse,

ducks,

pheasants, and other big game. A 12

Peep sights, pin sights, lit sights, and

gauge or even a 10 gauge that shoots a

even telescopic sights can be put on

2 or 4 shot is a good choice. Rabbits

modern bows. Shotguns usually only

and squirrels can be

have one front bead, but slug guns can

hunted with

hollow-point rim-fire rifles, high-

sometimes have rifle-style iron sights

powered air rifles capable of shooting

or laser dot sights. Rifles can have

at least 750 fps, or shotguns similar to

telescopic sights, iron sights, peep

those used for quail and dove.

sights, red dot sights, or a mix of these.

You can use center -fire rifles, bows, or Understand how your weapon works or

muzzle-loading rifles to hunt deer,

how it is configured.

antelope, and sheep. Center-fire rounds should be at least.243 caliber and have soft-pointed bullets that are at least 100 grains. Muzzle-loading rifles should be at least.40 caliber, and bows should be

175

Rifles and shotguns can be single -shot, double-barreled,

pump -action,

1. Getting familiar with the land scape

semi -

is it’s best to take a walk around the

automatic, or semi -automatic, and each of

hunting area so you know where the

these can work in a differe nt way. Bows

animals are likely to be sleeping.

are the same way. There are recurve,

This will also help you if you hit your

compound, and crossbows. Some hunters

prey but have to follow it. •

even use pistols. Use a weapon that you are sure you can handle well.

Pay attention to any swamps, loose rocks, downed trees, or other things that could get in your way on the way to your hunting spot.

•

Watch out for natural animal paths in the area where you hunt. Most of the time, these are the paths your prey will take. If you need to find your prey, knowing these paths will help.

12. Practice your chosen weapon. You

•

should keep doing this until you are

Remember the tracks you see on these natural trails or take a picture of them.

sure that you (and it) can do the job

You can compare these to a track guide

well. You might want to go to a rifle or

when you get back home.

bow range, a skeet range, or another

2. Take a Look at the Weather. Even if

place where you can shoot. If you want

the weather report says it will be nice,

to be good at shooting, you should do

it's best to be ready for bad weather

it with care.

when you go hunting. If you knew

Part 4: Making plans for a successful

about bad weather or other dangerous

hunt

situations ahead of time, it could have saved your life. 3. Gather your belongings. When you are out in the wild, forgetting something can be more than just a pain. It can be dangerous. Before you go h unting, you should make a list of the things you will need and gather them.

176

•

When you are getting ready to go

also help you remember the best way

hunting, you should make sure you

to get there and the safest way to get to

have an emergency supply kit and wear

where you want to hunt.

enough blaze orange (also called Part 5: Learning the Rules of the Game

hunter's orange or safety orange) so that other hunters can see you.

13. Learn how to handle game meat the

4. Tell your friends and family what

right way.

you want to do. So, if you get lost or hurt while hunting, you will know that help is on its way. You can't always count on your phone to get you help when you're out in the wild. 5. If you need to, ask for permission.

How you do this will depend on what you

Before you go hunting on the private

are hunting. But you don't want to try field

land of a friend or neighbor, make sure

dressing and carrying a 700 -pound elk

you

without being ready. Take the time to learn

•

have

permission

from

the

landowner and your hunting license.

what to do with an animal so that the meat

Even if you've been told you can hunt

you take doesn't go to waste.

there whenever you want, it's best to 14. Make sure you have what you need

let your neighbo r know before you go.

to take care of the meat. To move a

This will make it less likely that you

big game animal, you might need pack

will get hurt while hunting.

animals or something else. You s hould also remember that you will need a place to store possibly hundreds of pounds of deer, moose, or elk meat after your hunt.

6. Examine the map. This will help you remember the walk you took to get ready for your hunting trip. This will

177

•

15. Get to know other hunters. This can help you find people to go hunting

You should skin and dress rabbits and squirrels before they get too stiff.

with, but it can also help if you don't Part 6: Begin Hunting

have enough freezer space. You can also get advice on [field dressing a deer carcass] and how to cook the meat.

1. Start the hunt at the right time. This will depend on your game and the rules in your area. If you want to hunt deer from a stand in the evening, you may need to get to your stand around 3 p.m. 16. Know that time plays a role.

So, you won 't scare away the animals, and your scent will fade before your game is most active. 2. As you enter the hunting area, try to be as quiet as possible. You should park your car a long way from where you expect to find game and then move

It might be fun to drive around with a

as quietly as possible to your chosen

trophy buck to show it off, but if the

stand or stalking area.

weather is warm, you need to gut the

3. Stop often to look at what's around

animal an d cool the meat as soon as

you.

possible after you kill it. Other game animals also need to be handled in a certain way. •

Game

birds

should be plucked,

skinned, and dressed as soon as possible after being caught.

178

For many first-time hunters, sitting still for

5. Use binoculars or a scope for

hours while waiting for the right animal to

spotting. This is especially helpful

walk into view is the hardest part of getting

when hunting in open country s o you

wild meat. You will be looking for si

can look for game. You might only see

gns

that your game is in the area, such as

the tip of an antler or the eye of a

droppings, tracks, signs of foraging, or

rabbit that has blended in well. If the

other signs that your game is active.

animal gets scared and runs away, it will be hard to get a good shot. 6. Before you start shooting, make sure you know where you want to go.

4. Pay attention to the wind as you Deer and other game animals can be

hunt.

killed again and again for meat, but there is a limit to how many can be killed each year. For many types of game, you can only hunt a certain size or gender of animal. Learn about the rules in the area and make sur

e your

target follows them. 7. Aim to kill cleanly. When there is a lot of wind, animals often hide in thick cover or where they sleep because it is harder to see dangerous predators. Wind can also carry your scent to your game, which will scare them and make them run away before you even get As

close.

a moral person who eats meat, you are now

179

•

directly responsible for the lives that must

Check your gear before you go home.

be lost so that you can live. Once you've

You don't want to accidentally bring

found a safe meat animal to shoot, you

wild animals into your home that could

should try to kill it as quickly a nd

hurt you. •

painlessly as possible.

you're hunting. This could affect your

You shouldn't shoot at a game animal that

judgment and cause you to get hurt.

is too far away, moving too fast for you to

•

get a good shot, or in a place where a miss

Check all of your gears before you g o hunting. You don't want broken gear to

could hurt other hunters or damage their

put you or your hunting partners in

property. If you don't know what's going on, don't shoot.

Don't drink alcohol or use drugs when

danger.

Don't shoot across or

toward highways, and never shoot at

Project 33: Foraging

buildings or people. Foraging is a skill that can be extremely 8. Be ready to find a wounded animal

valuable, but only if you know what you're

and kill it. If you don't kill what you

doing. There are many poisonous berries in

want to eat cleanly, you should wait a

the wilderness , and even something as

good amount of time before going after

common as diarrhea could be fatal in the

it. Even injured animals can run for

wilderness.

miles if they think someone is after How to Locate Edible Wild Plants

them. But in the end, it is your job to

9.

do everything you can to find the hurt

Before consuming any of these plants,

animal and end its suffering in a kind

please double-check their authenticity on

way.

other websites. There are edible wild plants

This could mean following your prey

everywhere you look. Not only is it free

through rough terrain and waiting until

food, but eating wild plants is a significant

you find blood or other signs that point

step

you in the right direction.

wilderness. If you know where to look and

toward

self-sufficiency

in

the

10. Learn how to hunt in a group safely.

how to prepare plants you find in the wild,

If you decide to go hunting with a

you'll be well-prepared for your next

friend or friends, make sure they are

camping trip, whether you're planning to

also wearing enough blazes orange and

survive on free greens or just want to try

stay in sight while you hunt.

180

new flavors. However, consuming the

sow thistle. Some of these may have

wrong plant could be fatal.

different names depending on where you live or forage.

Steps

•

Don't start with gr ass, because not all grasses are edible. For example,

1. Determine where the best food is

bamboo has cyanogenic glycosides,

based on your location

which your body turns into hydrogen cyanide.(although those with a weak stomach should avoid it). Anything under 6 is easy to digest and chew. The flavor ranges from in tensely sweet to mild to bitter; anyone who has consumed a wheatgrass shot is aware

Keep in mind that if you reside in a

of how sweet grass can be. Grass that

humid area, the majority of wild food

exceeds 6" can be chewed and spit out

will be found in the sun, whether in a

for juice, or run through a manual

clearing or along an edge. In arid

wheatgrass juicer for a nutritious shot.

regions, such as the Southwest of the •

United States, the majority of wild

Many grasses have ed ible seeds, but it is preferable to learn how to identify a

food will be found near water.

particular plant rather than shady tips. 2. Pick up a local plant identification

4. Visit other regions that are routinely

guide. Obtain guides to the most

cleaned.

prevalent edible plants in your region, also

known as "weeds." Try to

memorize the top 20 or 25 terms, as they may come in handy in the future. 3. Start with the top habitat for wild edible plants, which is your lawn. Try

Any area that is regularly cleared has

roadways (see warning below), fields, and

the potential to be overrun with edible

parks, etc. They will have an abundance of

weeds such as dandelion, chickweed,

edible plants. You can gather chickweed by

plantain, wild onion, violets, wood sorrel, henbit, clover, dead -nettle, and

181

the bucketful. Here are some things to look

Yes, the stinging variety, are o ur healthiest

for:

green. Consider sautéed spinach on steroids. Cooked nettles are excellent

5.

cones with edible nuts in late summer

emergency stomach fillers, as they contain

and fall.

approximately 8% protein (amino acids), complex carbohydrates in the flowers and

Edible Plants in the

seeds, and a remarkable array of minerals.

United States

Most people also report that nettle tea so effectively balances their immune systems

1. Cattails

that they rarely experience seasonal allergies if they consume a lot of it. Note, however, that nettle leaves must be harvested in the spring before the plant goes to seed , at which point a compound called cystolyths becomes extremely damaging to the kidneys and/or bladder. The stems of nettles provide the strongest Cattails are a quick starting point of

natural plant fiber available in many

sustained, plant-based energy (complex

northern climates, elevating them to the list

carbohydrates) in almost every season and

of the top five most significant plants.

latitude, and the only source of plant -based 3. Flora

energy in many northern climates during spring and winter. Just don't mistake cattails for poisonous impostors like irises. 2. Nettles

Other natural flora, such as the flowers and seeds of the aster family, are crucial to

182

recognize and utilize. Sunflowers are the most prominent illustration. If you read John Kallas's Edible Wild Plants, you'll learn that "littl e sunflowers" like dandelion, hairy cat's ear, oxeye daisies, and other asters typically have edible flowers that you can eat raw or fry in hot oil for a nutty, nutritious snack.

Blue Camas

You should also familiarize yourself with

Problematically, they resemble numerous

the genus Chenopodium and other edible

poisonous plants, and it is difficult to find

goosefoots, such as Lamb's Quarter leaves,

harvestable plants in the wild today.

which are "salty" and whose seeds contain You must essentially cultivate them

some of the highest protein concentrations

yourself. Carrots typically grow in poor,

in the plant kingdom. Think quinoa.

gravelly soil, so their taproots are nearly 4. Root crops

nonexistent except in gardens that have been tilled. Blue cama is a prairie plant that requires days o f baking, and there are only about 1% of prairies left in North America. Chocolate lilies are found in pristine wetlands and, to say the least, are exceedingly rare.

Wild Carrots Root such as wild carrot, blue camas, and chocolate lily, or whatever your native root crop is, are excellent if they are identified and marked for future harvest when they are flowering during the summer. Chocolate Lily

183

2. Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Edible Plants in UK The United Kingdom has an abundance of edible weeds, plants, mushrooms, and berries. This list barely scratches the surface of the common wild edibles I enjoy during the summer months in the United Kingdom. I hope you found this

guide on

my top ten summertime foraged foods of interest. 1. Chickweed (Stellaria media) is among

Early July marks the end of elderflower

the top ten wild foods to harvest.

season, which is ideal for flavoring cordials, wine, sorbets, and ice cream. The tiny white flowers are easy to spot in large clusters in nearly every hedgerow, but you should avoid picking them near roads to avoid picking polluted plants. 3. Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella)

Vitamins and minerals with cleansing and healing

properties

are

abundant

in

chickweed. This frequently overlooked weed

is

severely undervalued. Make

delicious homemade pesto with it, or use it to flavor fish or chicken. As it shares the same habitat as the non -edible Speedwell, Spurge, and Scarlet Pimpernel, care must Wood sorrel is typically found on moist

be taken when searching for this gem. Chickweed

is

distinguished

by

and shady woodland floors and hedgerows.

its

It is easily identified b y its three heart-

distinctive star-shaped white flowers. To

shaped leaves and stem that descends

consume, thoroughly wash and use only the green portions of the plant.

184

perpendicularly from the middle, similar to

5. Chanterelles (Cantharellus cibarius)

a clover. The leaves "wilt", or close at night or in harsh conditions. The leaves have a sharp and sour flavor, similar to that of apple peel and lemon, and are quite delicious. Wood sorrel is an excellent addition to salads. This 4. Pennywort (Centella asiatica)

delightful,

golden -yolk-colored

mushroom can be found in pine and mixed forests. Its undulating form distinguishes it from the false Chanterelle, which smells and resembles a more typical mushroom but has a similar hue. The Chanterelle has a peppery, slightly fruity flavor and a faint apricot aroma. Cook in a small amount of oil or butter and add to pasta, or soak in

Pennywort is difficult to misidentify, as it

vodka to make a very unique liqueur.

is typically found in old stone walls and rocky

People

crevices. Due to the small

who

wish

to

gather

wild

mushrooms should be aware of the

indentation in the center of its round leaves

potential dangers they pose. To ensure that

and spikes of green and pink flowers on its

foraging is enjoyable and does not pose a

stem, the plant is also known as navelwort.

health risk, it is essential to correctly

Pennywort is at its most juicy after a rainstorm, making it ideal for summer

identify edible mushrooms. Foraging for

salads

wild fungi requires the assistance of a

and

adding crunch to picnic

seasoned professional.

sandwiches.

185

distinguished by its elongated, sharply

Edible Plants in

serrated leaves, which are completely

Germany

smooth and devoid of hairs, in contrast to

The forest path is a treasure trove of edible

other species that are commonly confused

plants because it is typically more light-

with the dandelion.

drenched than densely forested areas,

Moreover, the dandelion forms a rosette of

which explains why some plants that also

bracts and extends its leaves just above the

grow in the meadow can be found here.

ground. The entire plant, including the

However, the fact that they receive considerably less light can result

root, is usable. This can be roasted and

in a

ground into a coffee substitute.

slightly different appearance, such as a lighter shade of green or a generally

Due to the high proportion of bitter

smaller habit. However, the plants remain

substances, the leaves are slightly bitter,

edible and retain their flavor.

but they can be added without difficulty to any game vegetable di sh. Typically, closed

Common plants along the German forest

buds are roasted or sweet -and-sour. Also,

path are:

in the spring, the flower is picked and turned into the well -known dandelion

1. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale):

honey. Tips As with the collection of flowering wild herbs in a meadow, it is best to gather aromatic flowers in th e forest or along forest roads when there is an abundance of sunlight. Delicious Shrubs The dandelion is frequently mistakenly

Numerous bushes, especially at the forest's

thought to be poisonous due to its milky

edge, promise a bountiful harvest in

white sap, but all plant parts are safe to

autumn. The f orest's most common shrubs

consume. In folk medicine, the dandelion

are:

is referred to as "Pissblume" because it has a diuretic

2. Hazelnut shrub (Corylus avellana):

effect. The dandelion is

186

nothing that Frau Holle's name resembles that of t he fairy tale character. This is especially noticeable when the bush loses its flowers and the ground appears to be covered in snow. The elm is distinguished by its porous gray -brown bark and white spring flower umbels. He may be confused

Almost everyone has consumed hazelnuts,

with the red elde rberry, which has yellow

which are unmistakable in the fall due to

flowers and red berries, or the attich, which

their split fruit. There are numerous myths

blooms much later and has a low growth

about hazelnut bushes, including those that

habit compared to the elderberry's bushy

forget the passage of time and remain there

nature. The shrubs can consume the

forever.

springtime flowers and autumn berries. This is true regardless of the season for

Since

densely bearing shrubs. The hazelnuts are

sambunigrin is destroyed by heat, the black

harvested as soon as they have a firm, hard

elderberry must always be processed in a

shell—if it is still susceptible to the

warm way.

the

incompatible

glycosid e

thumbnail, it is too early and the nut is not Tip: Unfortunately, wild animals are

yet fully developed. If the nuts are to be

frequently faster, which is why you should

harvested at a later date, they are dried and

frequently inspect the shrubs for ripeness

stored with their shells to preserve their

so as not to lose track of it.

flavor for as long as possible.

Tree-borne treats

3. Black elder (Sambucus nigra):

Obviously, the forest also provides a variety of trees that are edible. By collecting buds, nearly all year -round plants in the forest can be consumed, but taking too many buds can be detrimental to the tree. 4. Summer/winter

bark

platyphyllos/Tilia cordata):

Numerous legends and fairy tales also surround the elderberry, and it is not for

187

(Tilia

proverb "The spruce stings, the fir (yew)" The spruce uses the fresh, lightgreen shoots that emerge in May and reach a maximum length of 2 centimeters. They can be consumed raw or processed i nto syrups or similar products. In the forest, the winter bark is far more prevalent than the summer bark,

Project 34: Trapping for

which differs in the size of its leaves but is equally edible. The linden tree

Game

has particularly tasty buds, and its

In a survival situation, snaring or trapping

green, unripe fruits can be eaten even

game is the preferred method for several

in autumn. The white blossom has a

reasons. You may have a firearm, but firing

scent that is almost intoxicating and is

it may reveal your location and scare away

used to make tea.

the game in the area, so you may need to save your ammunition for self-defense.

5. Spruce (Picea abies):

Getting good at snares and traps will give you the confidence to live in the most dangerous places. Where can I find small games? It is necessa ry to identify game trails and runs. Trails are typically used to get to and from water sources, and a variety of

The spruce is likely the most common forest

tree,

and

the

animals, including large predators, will use

so -called

them as well. Animal runs, on the other

"Maiwipferl" is typically harvested in

hand, are typically used by the same

May. The spruce can be distingu ished

animal until it moves its burrow or den.

from the related fir and other conifers with

short

needles, such as the

The animal using the run has discovered

extremely poisonous yew, by the

the most secure and convenient route to

188

•

and from feeding areas and dens. There is usually a "bolt hole" or backdoor as well.

The link between the two sticks is known as a "hook trigger."

•

Examine the environment for droppings

The force that draws the animal up

and worn/chewed vegetation. Once you've

using a noose is maintained by the

identified the areas where you want to

tension between the engine's branch

place your traps, avoid trampling around in

pulling upward on the leader line and

them too much so you don't leave

the base stick holding the hook stick

any

evidence of your presence.

firm. 2. Find a young, robust tree close to

Creating a Small Game Trap is Method

animal signs of activity.

1

The tree will serve as the engine, so select one that is both young and robust but not

1. Become acquainted with the various

too rigid that it cannot flex. Walk through

parts and functions of a small game

possible sites and search for animal

trap. Each begins with an engine, which

shelters, footprints, and other indicators of

consists of a young tree

animal activity.

connected to a snare that collects tiny game. The snare consists of a noose

•

tied to a hook stick, which is notch-

Choose a tree tha t will hold your game until you find it.

connected to a base stick buried in the

3. Select 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm)

ground. Additionally, the h ook stick is

of material for the noose.

connected to the engine's branch by a leader line attached to its top. When an animal walks through the nose, the sticks are dislodged, and the leader line pulls the noose upward, trapping it.

189

•

Use craft wire, picture hanging wire, or copper strands if possible. If you want to

parallel. •

use a different material, ensure that it is both flexible enough to tighten fast when

•

games in the air. Other

number in order to tie the knot

materials include shoelaces,

properly. •

If you find yourself in the wilderness unprepared,

use

natural

edge of the noose generated by the initial bight.

stinging nettle. a

Complete your noose by tig htening it by drawing down on the right -hand

noose

materials like dogbane, milkweed, and

4. Tie

You can make more than seven twists, but you must always use an odd

dental floss, and fishing line. •

Tighten each turn individually as you make it.

tugged and strong enough to hold tiny

•

Ensure that all three "S" legs are

noose using the desired

5. Create a pencil -diameter loop at one

material.

end of your leader line.

Make a U-shaped bend (sometimes called a bight) with the opening on the left side.

Create a loop with wire by making a circle

Create a "S" form by bending a second

with one end and then repeatedly twisting

bend at the end of the first one in the

the free e nd back onto itself. Fold the free

opposite direction. Put the end of the

end of the thread back upon itself and then

material beneath all three legs and wrap it

create an overhand knot. After forming a

over them; repeat at least six more times.

loop, pass the remaining free end of the

To construct a loop, ensure that the top of

material through the loop.

the second bight protrudes above the

•

topmost turn. Pass the unattached end of

Tie an overhand knot by grasping the cloth 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) from

the material through the front -to-back loop

the end of the noose. Pass the material

created by the second bight.

over the gripping point (called the

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•

standing section) and tuck it inside the loop from the opposite side. Pull it

Attempt to locate a stick with a similar thickness to the base stick.

toward you via the loop. Now, pull

8. Carve a notch onto each stick's tip.

both ends apart to tighten the knot. 6. Sharpen the end of

a 2 -foot-long

(0.61-meter-long) base stick.

Mark the lines of the notch with a knife to begin. Ensure that each notch is approximately 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) Find a hardwood species stick, such as ash,

in length and begins approximately 2 to 3

oak, hickory, maple, or Osage. Angle a

inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) from the end of each

knife or other cutting instrument, such as

stick.

an axe or saw, at a 45 -degree angle toward •

the stick and make small, even strokes

When finished, connect the sticks via

away from you. Continue removing strips

their notches. Ensure that you can tug

of the stick while turning it until a pointed

them in opposite directions without

end is achieved.

them coming apart when they are attached.

•

Make sure the point is sharp enough to

9. Tie the free end of the noose to the

penetrate the soil.

hook's base.

7. Get a hook stick that is slightly shorter than the base stick.

Connect the unattached end to the point on the hook stick just above the notch The hook stick will be hooked a t one

connecting it to the base stick. After

end to the noose and the other end to

affixing the noose to the hook, pull up on

the leader engine. Moreover, its notch

the thread and down on the hook to secure

will secure it to the ground stick.

it.

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•

Be sure to knot the noose as securely as possible to the stick.

10. Connect the hook to the motor using the leader line.

After attaching the sticks, the sapling should be bent at a 90 -degree angle. Make sure the noose is on the ground and the loop is open so that it can capture your Verify that the noose of the hook is secured

target.

just above the notch. Attach the free end of 

the leader line to the free end of the hook,

Your snare is now prepared! Test it by inserting a stick to activate the trigger.

and then attach the free end of the leader 

line to the engine tree. Make sure the hook

Detach the hook stick from the base stick to disarm the trap.

can reach the base of the sapling by tying a

Method 2: Fish Trap Construction

knot roughly 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) from the top of the sapling's branch and

1. Using a knife, remove the cap off

then pulling the hook down to the base

a 0.52 gallon (2.0 L) soda bottle.

stick. •

Conduct a test to confirm that the sapling is robust enough to attach to the foundation piece. If it is too loose, reduce the length of the string. If it is too t ight to reach the branch's root without breaking it, remove the leader

Any type of plastic bottle can be used

line and make a longer one.

in

this

trap.

Insert

the

knife

horizontally into the bottle where the

11. Connect the notches on the hook stick to the base stick to arm the

curve becomes straight. Hold the bottle

trap.

steady and move the knife in and out as you pull it around the circumference of the bottle.

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•

Be sure to hold the bottle away from

the holes and cover them with nuts to

the cutline in order to avoid cutting

secure the bottle's top to the bottom.

yourself.

•

2. Insert the bottle's cap into the

Use small M3*8 (3 mm x 6 mm) stainless steel 304 screws with M3 nuts

bottle's body.

if possible. •

If you do not have a power drill, use tacks to create the init ial holes. Press the screws into place using your hands or a screwdriver.

Hold the bottle's opening upward. 4. Place pebbles and fish food

Rotate the cap so th at the point is

inside the bottle.

pointing down and inserted into the aperture. Gently push it down until it fits snuggly inside the bottle. •

Don't worry if the bottle's cap is somewhat loose after insertion; you may tighten it with screws. 3. Drive two screws through the bottle's sides where they meet

Place a handful of pebbles or small

the top piece.

rocks through the aperture. Filter it just enough so that the trap may be anchored to the botto m of the lake. Add small pieces of bait, insects, or fish food to the water to attract fish. •

For the best results, use

After inserting the cap, place the bottle

worms, maggots, hotdogs, or

on a flat surface on its side. Attain the

cereal as bait for fishing.

screw hole locations with the tip of an

5. Place the bottle in water that is

electric drill at a 45 -degree downward

shallow, such as a lake.

angle. Drill the holes while holding the bottle still. Then, insert screws through

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•

Apply melted animal fat to the affected area and then wash with water and soap to remove pine resin.

•

If you cannot find pine trees, look for any tree with a pitch -like substance on its bark.

After placing your bottle, you must wait.

2. Line the inner surface of a plastic

After swimming through the hole, the fish will

be

unable

constructing

and

cup with pine sap.

to escape. Continue deploying traps to

maximize your likelihood of catching fish. •

To make your trap portable while traveling, drag it through densely populated areas of water. Perform this periodically,

and you could be

Use your knife to scrape the interior of

fortunate!

your glass jar. Using your knife, rub the pine sap along the interior of the plastic

Method 3: Creating a Bird Trap

cup. Continue rubbing until a thin film of sap surrounds the inside. •

Utilize Dixie cups for optimal results.

3. The interior of the cone should be covered with bird feed or bait. 1. Remove pine resin from the bark of pine trees. Put on some discarded garments and gloves. Remove the outer coat of resin from local pine trees with a tiny knife. Using a hunting knife, scrape it into a glass jar after removing

Buy

it. During cold temperatures, it may be

bird feed or other bait, such as peanuts,

necessary to break the resin off rather

millet, or safflower seeds. Sprinkle them

than scrape it.

liberally into the cup's interior. Cover the

194

cup's rim with your palm and shake it vigorously.

Continue

spreading

Conclusion

and During the first few days of a grid

shaking the seeds until they form an inner

-down

event, review your long -term survival

layer of seed.

strategy. Determine whether the situation is •

Spread the seeds evenly throughout the

merely a power outage or a serious grid

interior of the cup, using a knife to

failure. Although it may be tempting to

create a uniform coating of bait.

instantly access your survival gear from

4. Place the cup on its side in an open

your bug out bag, unless you are actually

area where birds are frequently

bugging out, do not do so! You never know

active.

when your emergency kit may be required. The fact that you are already in a disaster situation does not guarantee that nothing else will occur. Even if you are sheltering at home, you may be forced to evacuate in the event that something else goes wrong in the future.

Ideal are open zones near trees and flora and sites with viewpoints, such as trees and

Do not immediate ly open the fridge or

power lines. In addition to chirping and

freezer. The food in your freezer will

bird sounds, search for common perching

remain frozen for several days if the door

spots, including those near or above the

is not opened. Plan to use the food in the

nest. •

freezer within a few days, and only open the door when you're ready to consume it.

Male birds frequently sing to designate territorial boundaries; by marking these

In a survival situation, you should avoid

spots on a map, you can determine the

wasting food at all costs.

nest's location. •

Females frequently call to their mates

You may already have an abundance of

on their route to the nest; listen for

bottled water, but it is impossible to have

their cries to determine the location of

too much water. It is likely that the water

their nest!

supply will shut off shortly after the power grid fails, so fill containers from the faucet. Tape over the bath and sink plugs with

195

duct tape, then fill them with water. This provides a substantial amount of additiona l water for the first few days. In the early stages of the grid down scenario, the majority of individuals may have been unaware of the severity of the situation. If any grocery stores are still open, now would be a good time to withdraw cash and stock up on fresh food. If your garden is not yet ready for harvest, it may be some time before you can consume fresh fruits and veget ables again. When people are desperate, they will do almost anything to obtain food and water due to their inherent nature. You do not want to draw attention to the fact that you have supplies, lest you become a target. Utilize the first two days after the grid fails to secure your supplies. Ensure that your home is as secure as possible and that your food and water supplies are hidden from view. You may require additional equipment for blocking doors, reinforcing gates, and covering windows. Thanks so much for reading.

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A Note from the Author Please don’t forget to leave a nice review on Amazon if you enjoy this guide. We will appreciate it. But if this book didn’t meet your expectations or did not cover some important project you would want us to talk about, please send us a message at: [email protected] We will answer your questions and even give you a free guide on that project.

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You

deserve

particular better