29 Preparedness Items to Buy Right Now If You Are Not Prepared
June 5, 2022 by Linda Loosli 77  Comments ,

29 Preparedness Items to Buy Right Now If You Are Not Prepared

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In the event of an emergency, it’s important to have essential items on hand. If you’re not yet prepared, now is the time to start your preparedness journey, or to stock up if you just need to update your inventory! Here are 29 items that you should have on hand, or look at buying right now if you don’t already have them.

You may wonder why I keep writing about preparedness day after day. Of course, I love recipes to share and I love to cook, so you’ll see lots of those too, but stocking up right now is as critical as any other time I can think of based on what’s going on in the U.S. and globally. We are seeing some challenging economic times, but also some significant weather events we haven’t had to deal with before.

We need food and we need a lot of water to start with. Please remember, the government won’t deliver food or water to your home during or right after a disaster. Nope, it’s not going to happen. They just don’t have the resources to help every family, particularly if the emergency event covers a wide area or heavily populated location.

Sometimes when I watch TV I see people lined up to get water or food on foot or in cars after a disaster. People, people, my friends, please don’t be one of those families. Just stock your own stuff. I understand if your home is flooded, burned down, or toppled over, but if your house is standing, I pray you can stay safely in YOUR home and have personal resources to survive.

People get crazy and mean when they need water, let alone food. Good grief, if people can fight over toilet paper at Costco a couple of years ago, just think about what they may be willing to do to get enough food. Yeah, don’t get caught unprepared. I may sound like I’m on a soap box, well, I am and it’s getting bigger and taller by the day.

Kudos to those who are prepared, we all need to build each other up. I’m really worried that I can’t garden this year, or at least like what I’m used to growing. We still haven’t started the building process of our new small home.

Please stock up on garden seeds for the year. If you need some, this is where I buy my seeds: SeedsNow

What Are Preparedness Items?

Preparedness items are supplies that you may need in the event of an emergency. This could be anything from a natural disaster to a power outage. By having these items on hand, you can be better prepared to handle most situations.

29 Preparedness Items to Buy Right Now If You Are Not Prepared

29 Preparedness Items to Buy Right Now

Preparedness is important for everyone, but especially for those who live in areas that are prone to experiencing natural disasters. By taking some simple steps now, you can be ready for most things mother nature throws your way. Here are 29 preparedness items that you should buy right now:

Minimum Basic Survival Supplies

  1. Water: You can’t survive without it, so make sure you have plenty of clean water on hand. Fill up containers now and store them in a cool, dark place. Water Preserver is a product I recommend since you only have to rotate the water every 5 years rather than every 6 months or so if you use bleach.
  2. Food: Non-perishable food items, like canned goods and dry pasta, are essential for staying fed during an emergency. Plus, they have a longer shelf life so you don’t have to worry about them going bad in the short term.
  3. First Aid Kit: This should include basic items like bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes. Don’t forget to include any prescription medications you or your family members take. Be willing to take some first aid classes so you’re prepared as best as possible to use the items in the kit.
  4. Flashlight: A flashlight is a must-have for any Preparedness Kit. Make sure to buy extra batteries as well! I have a bunch of solar flashlights I keep on window sills at my house so they stay charged up.
  5. Radio: A battery-operated or hand-cranked radio is a great way to stay informed during an emergency.
  6. Multi-Purpose Tool: A multi-purpose tool, like a Swiss Army Knife, can come in handy for all sorts of things, from opening cans to cutting rope.
  7. Maps: It’s always a good idea to have maps of your area on hand. If you’re ever stranded, they can help you find your way back to safety.
  8. Sanitation supplies: Cleaners like bleach and disinfectant wipes are important for preventing the spread of disease. Bleach is also great for sanitizing water for short-term use.
  9. Toiletries: essential toiletries like toilet paper, soap, and toothpaste are often forgotten in Preparedness Kits. But trust us, you’ll be glad you have them if you find yourself without power or running water!
  10. Blankets: Blankets can be used for warmth or to create a makeshift shelter. They are also good for insulation in case you lose power and need to keep small rooms in your home warm.
  11. Non-prescription medications: Over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and anti-diarrheal treatments can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Be sure to include them in your Preparedness Kit. We women should also consider our monthly needs don’t change just because an emergency happens. Plan ahead with some sanitary napkins or tampons.
Read More of My Articles  15 Steps To Prepare For A Disaster

Additional Recommended Preparedness Items

  1. Fire Extinguisher: In the event of a fire, a fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver. Make sure to check that it is in working order and keep it easily accessible. By one or more based on the type of fire you might likely expect. Grease fires in the kitchen are different than a chemical or wood fire. Do some research and purchase accordingly.
  2. Clothes: Extra clothes and shoes are always a good idea to have around in case of an emergency. If you live in a cold climate, make sure to include warm clothing and blankets.
  3. Pet supplies: If you have pets, don’t forget to include food and water for them in your Preparedness Kit. You should also have a leash and collar on hand in case you need to evacuate.
  4. Matches: Matches can be used to start a fire for warmth, to cook, or to signal for help. Keep them in a waterproof container to prevent them from getting wet.
  5. Candles: Candles can be used for light or to provide warmth in an emergency situation. Make sure to buy some that are unscented so they don’t attract unwanted attention. I always caution my readers to be very careful with candles in the house, they can be a fire hazard, particularly if you have young children.
  6. Cash: In the event of a power outage, cash is king. ATM machines won’t work without power, so make sure you have some on hand to buy essential supplies.
  7. Water purification tablets: Water purification tablets are a must-have if you need to drink from questionable water sources. They will kill bacteria and viruses, making the water safe to drink. You should also consider some water filter units, if your finances will support a purchase. There are lots of options. Check my archives for posts giving you some input.
  8. Batteries:  Batteries are essential for powering flashlights, radios, and other devices. Make sure to buy extra and keep them in a cool, dry place.
  9. Baby supplies: If you have a baby, don’t forget to include diapers, wipes, formula and baby food, and other essential items in your Preparedness Kit.
  10. Elderly supplies: If you have elderly family members, make sure to include items like glasses, hearing aids, and walkers in your Preparedness Kit. Most older people have prescriptions they take on a daily basis, but sure to have those on hand.
  11. Games and activities: Keeping everyone entertained can be a challenge during an emergency. Make sure to include some games and activities in your Preparedness Kit to help pass the time. See my Prepping with Children Checklist if you have kids. 
  12. Books: Books can be a great way to pass the time during an emergency. But they can also be used for reference in case you need to find information about survival skills or first aid.
  13. Power bank:  A power bank can be a lifesaver if you lose power and need to recharge your electronic devices. Make sure to get one that is big enough to charge your phone or tablet multiple times.
  14. Solar charger: A solar charger is a great way to keep your devices charged when there is no power. They are also eco-friendly and can be used to charge your power bank.
  15. Alternative cooking vessel:  If you lose power, you may not be able to cook on your stove. That’s why it’s a good idea to have an alternative cooking vessel like a camp stove, butane stove, or a solar oven.
  16. Gasoline: Make sure your vehicles are full and you have extra gas on hand in case you need to leave the area you are in.
  17. Masks: Masks can be used to protect you from air pollution or respiratory illnesses. They are also helpful if you need to evacuate an area that is affected by smoke or ash.
  18. Whistle: A loud whistle can be used to signal for help if you get lost or trapped during an emergency.
Read More of My Articles  5 Last-Minute Easy Hurricane Preparedness Tips

What is the Most Important Preparedness Item to Have?

There is no one answer to this question as everyone’s needs will be different. However, some items that would be considered essential for most people include food, water, shelter, and first aid supplies. Keep in mind that you can only survive about 3 days without clean drinking water.

No matter what Preparedness items you choose to include in your kit, make sure you have the basics covered. And always remember to stay safe. Like so many things in life, a plan is critical for success, and that goes for being prepared! Have a plan, take action to follow the plan, and practice specifics in the plan like evacuations. Each family member needs to be trained and willing to do their part.

Final Word

Don’t wait until it’s too late to start preparing for an emergency. These 29 items should be at the top of your list when putting together your Preparedness Kit. Be sure to stay safe and have a plan in place so you can weather any storm. May God Bless this world, Linda

Copyright Images: Water Jugs AdobeStock_309005654 by Oleksandr

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77 Comments

  1. If you haven’t started into preparedness but are thinking about it please make that jump and put in the effort. It’s worth it. It’s not just for “crazies” and it’s not cause end of the world it’s because things happen. Eventualities are real.
    There’s no requirement to wear gas mask and stab trees with your bayonet while building a secret anti government lair castle on the weekends.
    Keep it real and take care of yourself and your loved ones.

    Reply

    2. Thank you! When I first began people would assume I was one of the ‘crazies’ (my husband didn’t say so but I am pretty sure he may have been thinking it)………….not so much any more lol. We are slowly beginning to learn how to garden, for my birthday I asked for (and got), and big chest freezer, we have a generator, I have an ‘auxiliary pantry’ in the garage. Storing enough water is still a concern that I have.

      Reply

      1. Sounds like a good start. Linda has water bricks advertised that are easy to move. I also get barrels off of Craigslist. I like the open top food grade ones so I can use any pan/cup/jug to dip in and get the water.
        I rotate annually

        Reply

        1. Thank you! Are you collecting rainwater in the barrels? Are you putting anything in the water? Do you use the bricks as well? I have jugs of water but I know that is insufficient.

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          1. I’m not collecting rainwater at the moment. It’s all fresh. I put 1/2 cup bleach in. I also have water bricks. I don’t treat them as they are filled with city water and climate controlled. The barrels are not. I also have 2 IBC totes and one has a garden hose attachment on it. They sit in 2 bricks which is high enough to fill a bucket. I also have several jugs of different types. Some in the closet and some are in the storm shelter.
            Altogether it’s around 600gls.

            If nothing else save spaghetti jars, 2 liter soda bottles, juice jugs (not milk) and fill them. Even just having these to flush the toilet is a big help.

            If you know something bad is imminent then start filling pots and pans and all the Tupperware. A hurricane is an example.

            Water doesn’t have to be hard or expensive

            Remember the hot water heater still holds water even without power. Learn how to access the drain.

  2. Linda,

    Quick money saving tip. Sodium Hypochlorite (your water preserver) is simply unscented, undyed bleach. That type of bleach I have is a 6% solution as opposed to your water preserver’s 5.25%. Regular unscented, undyed bleach is much less costly than those tiny water preserver bottles. I did buy the water preserver once but now I simply refill that bottle with my bleach. Works great for keeping my stored water AND my chickens 5-gallon waterer clean.

    Reply

      1. Linda,

        There’s nothing special about it–just regular bleach. Keep in mind regular unscented bleach does smell like chlorine.
        Just be sure there’s no additional dyes or scents added.

        Reply

  3. Linda,

    And if you store gasoline be sure you add Pri-G or Stabil to your gas. But you are absolutely correct when you say that having a plan is paramount. Failing to plan is planning to fail.

    Reply

    2. Ray,
      Good reminder. And, if you can get it, it is best to store E0 gasoline, meaning NO ethanol. I recently had a good test of E0 gasoline with StaBil in it. We had stupidly not fired up our boat since before Covid. We always use E0 and put StaBil in it just in case. It had sat for almost two years without being run. I hooked up the water hose connector to the engine, hooked up the fuel line, primed it and it started after about ten seconds cranking. It ran fine. Getting ready to top off the fuel tank and take it to the lake. So, basically, my point is that E0 with StaBil is probably good for two years in storage. It is best to rotate it out sooner than that, but that proved the worth of StaBil to me. Just thought I would pass that on.

      Reply

      2. Harry,

        Two years is about how long I’ve stored premium unleaded gasoline too. Not sure if it was EO or not but I always try not to buy gas with corn in it.

        Reply

  4. StaBil is a wonderful product and I agree gasoline is good for 2 years. Let me add something that might be of interest to your readers, Linda. Close to the end of winter I always fill several cans of gasoline and add StaBil to each. I use this gasoline all summer in my riding mower to mow 3 acres of land. The reason I do this is that up until the present days I was buying all my gas, for that use, at a much less price than if you filled one can every week or two thru the summer. This year I filled the cans at 3.38 gal . Today’s price in my area it is 4.59 gal. A huge 1.21 per gallon saved and no more trips to the gas station unless the vehicle needs it.

    Reply

      1. 3 acres cleared in the middle of a forest. 8 acres total. My little piece of the world. So private and so wonderfully filled with wild animals and a large garden area. Yes, you would love it.

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  5. I thank you so much for your help as things seem to worsen daily. I am having mixed feelings about how much help people truly need and how much is greed. Immediately following the shooting at the grocery store in Buffalo, cries went out for supplies because that was the only large grocery store in the area. Busses were demanded to take shoppers to other stores. Two weeks later and even after DAILY grocery give aways, meal deliveries and over 3 million dollars raised, people still have their hands out, almost demanding more. I’m sure many people not directly involved in this shooting have cars or family members to go shopping with. Do these people only have enough food for one day?What will happen when the food give aways stop, or there is a real emergency? And how much responsibility do I have, to be my brothers keeper? That is what keeps me up at night.

    Reply

    1. Hi Chris, these mass shootings are out of control for sure. The same thing happened after Hurricane Katrina. I have a relative that lives in Texas and after the hurricane people were bussed to her city or outlying city, I can’t remember. The people got off the bus and complained about the food being served, the sleeping arrangements, and more. 99% of the people brought nothing with them, nothing. They expected to be taken care of. I also knew someone that took care of his family and left before Katrina hit. He never asked for anything. Every situation is different but here are my thoughts. DO NOT EXPECT the government or anyone else to care of you. It’s not right. God helps those who help themselves. Linda. P.S. I have church leaders in Utah email me two or three times a week asking how to light the fire under their congregation to prepare for the unexpected. It’s really sad and ridiculous at the same time.

      Reply

      1. Linda, tell them to teach a series of lessons on Bible “heroes”. Start with Adam having a job int he garden to keep it. Noah prepared the ARK, and stored food for all the animals for over a year…while they were held out of destruction by the water.. NT scripture tells us Noah was a preacher of righteousness. he preached while the ark was a-preparing… continue with a brief on Abraham, Isacc, Jacob and finish with Joseph and his Egyptian journey, beginning as a slave, and rising thru obedience and trusting in God. Pharoah was told to prepare and put Joseph over the process of storing food in 7 years of plenty to prepare for 7 years of famine.Look at the attitudes of the people and the amounts that were required to be in store.. the directions given to the Egyptians who survived the lean times.,ie.. the amounts as the crops began to be productive- the people were now SLAVES, Yes even the unprepared Egyptians who had sold their animals, their land and then themselves to Pharoah in times of starvation.If i remember right it was 20% back to Pharoah, and 20% for themselves? We need to be letting people know they have been warned to prepare, there will be a time when “life happens” and we may be in need. IT is no one else ‘s duty to rescue me, It is my duty as a parent to provide for children and the elderly who are unable to provide. The lazy and ones who waste their living, i have no responsibility to provide to their want.

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        1. Denise, your words of wisdom resounded with me. I will sleep well tonight, remembering I am responsible for me and mine first. Please everyone stay safe and healthy.

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        3. We have been preparing for 9 years now and I have my two brothers also preparing. I did have my Sister back in 2020 when toilet paper and food shortages were bad but NOTHING major happened so she quit and gave me all her new shelves she had bought!!! SMH I just don’t understand how anyone can see the food, gasoline, lumber, shortages galore everywhere, everything going sky high and NOT know that something isn’t right!!! They think things are going back to normal soon! It may be a LOT LATER than they are prepared for!!!

          Reply

          1. Hi Busylady2day, I love hearing you have been preparing for 9 years! Good job! I totally agree things will not be going back to “normal” anytime soon. Linda

          2. At least she gave you her shelves and you know what she is not doing! From the solar cycles- i think we will be from 5-15 years before we go back to what is considered normal..from the past before cov id . Add to that the invaders on way to eagle pass with force to come and those who will meet them…None of this bodes good for supply lines.
            It is so frustrating when those who won’t see- should.. and those who do see are struggling to make wise decisions and make ends meet already. By doing all we can..we can have a little adjustment time ..
            I have beans and rice allocated for those who will not prepare in small, extra small portions. I will not starve my family and deprive them of needs to serve someone who has ignored all warning signs.
            I asked a friend who said she was” coming to my house”… who i am supposed to deprive of food so she can eat.? She now has a deep pantry..with some things in it., and recently asked me how to store rice.

  6. I totally agree on everything mentioned. We need to get on the ball now because according to what I have been reading, by Fall, prices on everything are going up so much that people are going to have trouble buying food, fuel, etc. Beef and chicken prices will continue to go up due to the lack of feed and the Bird Flu. We need to think of our families and have a garden, too. Just do what you can, but do something!!!!!

    Reply

    1. Hi Cheryl, I totally agree, I ordered some Augason shredded potatoes, #10 cans (12) because I have heard there will be a potato shortage. I can make a lot of meals with those. I’m stocking more “small canned” food than ever before. If I don’t use it I can donate it before the best buy dates. I can give it to those who were unprepared as well. I saw a steak at the store for $27.00 (ONE STEAK). My mouth was watering over the rib eye but my pocketbook said forget it. LOL! I will not cave to those prices! I totally agree, do what you can! We must, Linda

      Reply

      1. If you get more small cans of food than you can use before dates, those cans of food can be dehydrated., packed with oxygen absorbers and sealed.( this is one place i reuse older cleaned jar lids and repurposed glass jars.
        I chop my sting beans with a spatula so they are small pcs.. and the corn i run thru the spice grinder after dehydrated.. They store in smaller container and rehydrate quicker…
        . 7 – 15 0z cans of corn , put thru spice grinder after dehydrated… as a powder can be used to make creamed corn cakes, or added to thicken a soup or stew.. and will store in a 24 oz re used jar .
        mixed vegetables can be dehydrated from either canned or frozen. if you use canned ones, you need to consider rinsing them before dehydration.. if not when you use them, do not add salt- til you have tasted.
        Just got a few lbs of chuck steak, ground it myself, enough for 6 meals for 2. ave serv. 6 oz each.. was cheaper and better quality than the hamburger that was in my budgeted amount.
        I have begun purchasing peanut butter- even tho I can’t eat.Instant potatoes- don’t normally eat…Pasta in heavier amounts than we use…. Others i care about do, and are having a difficult time to make ends meet, NOW. They are doing what they can and are not wasteful…It is in lieu of anticipated need.

        Reply

        1. Hi Denise, great tips, thank you! I never thought to dehydrate the canned food! I have done frozen, why didn’t I think of that?? LOL! Thank you, Linda

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      2. A potato shortage? I haven’t heard that. Glad we planted a lot of them. Seeing people in stores fighting over TP shows us how nuts people can be.

        Thanks for all your tips.

        Reply

        1. Hi Janet, here is just one link I read, go down towards the bottom, yes, restaurants are making the French Fry packages smaller, but it’s potatoes and chips as well. Yeah the TP fights, crazy times. Thank you Janet, Linda

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  7. My husband has come around to the concept of shortages, not just food but other needs. He bought a second can opener, coffee maker, hand mixer and 3 lanterns. Granted they came from garage sales, but that made the price even better!

    Reply

    1. Hi Chris, garage sales are great! Thrift stores are fabulous too! One can open is no can opener. Two can openers are one. Not sure where I heard that but it makes sense!! LOL! Linda

      Reply

    2. Good job! Be sure to get extra Fuel for the lanterns….
      I added spatulas,and kitchen helpers in wood/bamboo or silicone…and 3 different type can openers including the PUNCH type.. I got some extra pcs. for house warming/ gifts etc.+I got extra crochet thread to make dishcloths- in cotton. I also have an extra copper coated skillet – like i use for preparing our eggs.( for dehydration).I looked for these in clearance stores and places where they could be obtained for 1$ or less per pc… I placed all of these in a special “box”, handy but separate. Other things to look for are measuring spoons, cups,basters, any plastic wear/storage containers..clearance aisles are good – when stores are no longer receiving an item and are down to a few they will clearance them to make a space for another item.

      Reply

        1. I also picked up extra cleaning brushes of al kinds and scrub pads.. I use denture brush and bottle brushes at kitchen sink… I have a toilet brush i use for cleaning animal waters (outside). Having new ones, for replacements of our own and for gifts when they are not available is a wise investment, for minimal outlay.. Scrub pads include sponges w/ scrubbers, the plastic, and mesh type and stainless steel and copper..
          I have also picked up extra knee high stockings to use for juice strainers.-new… I wash w/ peroxide first. How many to buy.? I looked at how freq i have bought over last 6 months and tripled. I will add these in housewarming gifts.. another thing to add is a wire hair snake to remove hair from a drain.
          Pain relievers- even the ones we do NOT use/use rarely in small bottles..ASA/ibuprophen.
          Any med possible for stomach issues. When we change our diets, voluntary or not or intestines can become unhappy in many ways… everything from indigestion on….
          Meds for yeast and urinary tract health and preventatives.
          Bite prevention and treatment for mosquito, tick,..and fire ant bites. There are multiple ways to address i suggest VARIED, and alternative as well . I have added lavender essential oil, Plaintain herb triple tincture., Maalox, Caladryl, and herbal sprays for repellant.( DEET has serious health concerns attached… as does sun protection…( do your own research) and we are allergic.)

          Reply

          1. Hi Denise, I worry about not being able to get extra “things” as well. I toss those items in the basket if they are on clearance. Great reminder to stock up on many things. Linda

          2. Denise, I would add IBGARD for treatment of IBS, and a stool softener since we have learned that using pain relievers even short term can cause constipation. I am making sure all necessary dentist, doctors appointments and tests are done as soon as possible.

      2. Denise, our lanterns are battery powered because we have no place to store fuel. But I do have over 200 batteries with 10 year lives. I am impressed with your finds. I need to follow your lead and take a look thru our kitchen to see our weak spots. When we downsized, I may have gotten rid of too much. For the most part we prep for a bugging in situation. To evacuate any further than our sons’ hom 5 minutes away, or our daughter’s home 15 minutes away would not be physically possible.

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        1. Chris,
          Maybe investigate the possibility of extra fuels..lamp oil, candles, matches,possibly at one of children’s houses. an inverter for the car, and a battery charger w/ rechargables might be better .. or one of the briefcase chargers to set in a sunny window.. some of those 10 year batteries go bad quicker than date. make sure you have a battery tester./some packages have one. i have also been getting the solar stake lights, they will recharge the batteries set in the sun.. and if charged and don’t need the light. a sm pc of clear plastic between contact points will save them for later..
          Make fire starters in case you need to use a grill w/ sticks/ rocket stove from an outside area?, possibly in your bug out locations?.. look up rocket stove, use cast iron with them… We do not plan on bugging out either! no plan to become a refugee.

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        3. Chris, I have an herbal tea i use and i have the herb growing in my yard… the herb is called Everlasting…it is known by healers as Rabbit tobacco.,grows 2-4 ft high in some areas of south east.It needs to completely dry on the stalk before gathering. it is easier to find because after frost has killed all else, it appears like it is in bloom and has a silvery appearance.. it contains many enzymes and substances for intestinal and lung health.. there is a write up on it by Darryl Patton.. put in his name in search bar on you tube and you can pull up his video he also has a long write up on it- thru regular search engines.. If you have and need to have instructions i use it for asthma, diarrhea, constipation , ( I have a frequent gastritis – if i neglect it.) it also has a good effect to prevent symptoms of lactose/milk intolerances. I use willow bark for pain, and Moringa both are otc’s and do not give the side effects of normal pharma.

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          1. Denise, Thank you for your help. I will look into this. Unfortunately, my flare-ups had become increasingly worse to the point I passed out from the pain, until I started taking IBGard daily. (I know TMI…) Forget doctors, because test after test and even surgeries offered no relief.

        4. Chris, stock it like it will not be available for an extended time. I have never heard of the prep. Look at ingredient list in it and check for similar preps. for a backup. anything that works as a backup can be used intermittently with what you are currently using – giving you a longer time span… of comfort.That is what i have done with every OTC i take- even occasionally. Thankfully my list is short and related to Lyme, intestinal surgery,hereditary intestinal issues. anemia. There are natural solutions to all of mine- that do help me.

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  8. Hey Linda,
    Great tips, as usual! Went to the grocery store this morning- they are also our gas station- $4.899 a gallon for gas!! My 11 year old grandson was beside himself. (We are in rural central Maine).
    I hear you about the steaks!! I used to feel so bad when I saw elderly people pick up a package of meat, see the price and put it back – now it’s me (and many others).

    I see no end to this but have given up trying to wake up friends- they call me nuts. I say, “It’s like insurance. You have fire insurance on your home just in case, why not stock up, just in case?”

    Thankfully I was raised by grandparents who went through the depression and WWII. I can, dehydrate, etc. Been at it for years.

    God bless you for all you do!!

    Reply

    1. Hi Beth, oh I love your comment! Now it’s me (and others) putting the meat back down. I’m in the same boat! It’s so funny because, in the last few weeks or maybe months, I’ve been stocking more and more canned goods from the grocery store. It truly is insurance. It’s a way of life for us, Beth! Keep up the good work, Linda

      Reply

  9. Hey Linda,
    I live in Texas and after we had that power problem in Feb a while back I put my preparedness into high gear. I have read many other prep sites, but yours is the one I turn to time and again. Always read your articles. They always have practical advice and have improved my preparedness as a result. I am confident that I can withstand a 2-week emergency for myself and maybe a few trusted neighbors. Keep up the good work.

    Reply

    1. Hi Kenneth, thank you for your kind words, my friend! I love hearing you live in Texas! I have visited there a few times and the people are not only friendly but they know how to cook and of course, BARBECUE! Love it, Linda

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    2. Many sites sound the alarm, (constantly), but few give sound advice on how to get ready. Linda is priceless.

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  10. Being prepared does not have to be expensive.

    Last Feb here in Texas when we had that massive power outage it was all the buzz. One day I was talking to my pharmacist about it. He agreed it would be a good idea but sighed and said it would be too expensive. I asked him if it would be too expensive to buy an extra can of soup or rice or canned beans every week at the grocery store that over time would build a 3 day supply. Then i asked him how expensive would it be if he started buying a large package of bottled water, one week at a time.

    I went on to tell him that I bought a Coleman cook stove that used either the 1 pound canisters or 20 pound large gas cylinders. For about $100 I could cook for about a week. He started to nod in agreement. The key is to build up your readiness a little at a time. That way it won’t be expensive and in a few months time you could be fully prepared for at least a 3-7 day emergency. Then continue building up for a 2-4 week emergency if you want.

    I never saw the guy again after that. My biggest purchase to date is the $290 I spent on a Berkey water purifier. So, to me it seems that most of us can build up their preparedness economically – a little at a time.

    Reply

    1. I am concerned that the time for slowly building reserves will be over soon. Those who had a few$ extra to purchase the little extra will soon be requiring those for every day needed items. Now is the time to prepare for crisis.. whether it be a hurricane, an earthquake- which in my area could impede energy distribution of multiple types (electrical , natural gas,water) Job cut back or loss, Sudden severe illness. Having a few months of food/necessities on hand can and has helped us get through times of extreme stresses. Yes, Insurance for life.

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      1. Denise, My son has gas and propane stored in his barn, on the other side of his orchard, away from his home. We have 10 Bic butane lighters with flex wands for firepits, and large jar candles. We have collected over 40 large jar candles, thanks to garage sale finds where we seldom pay more than $2. We do have 10 stake solar lights that could do double duty in the house if necessary. Our weather is not of the hurricane, tornadoes, wildfires evacuation style. More of the ice or snow storm. I have always felt, that if the roof is good, and you have the brains that God gave a ground squirrel, you will be prepared and stay safe inside until the roads are safe, Bugging out, any further than our sons home is not safe for us. I do require a scooter to get around outside. I am hoping to get a new battery in August, if Medicare will cover it.

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        1. Chris,Do not wait til August, the batteries and parts for scooters are already in short supply. Maybe try a battery recycler? to get one off the books for now… You do not want to be without a battery. i have heard rumors of “need to have everything in house- you may need… by 8/1”. was not told what threat is planned/expected to be. I suspect it is with the event expected in November to set things upright. , before that.??

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          1. Thank you Denise for your input. I will start calling around Monday morning. I can get around in our home with canes, but anything beyond that is a no-go. I hadn’t heard the August 1st date, but I can see things getting worse by the day. Please stay safe.

    2. Hi Kenneth, great comment! I remember reading and seeing the pictures of the power outage in Texas!!! YIKES! Good job on finding a few items at a time. That’s all it is. We can’t buy everything we need in a week. Well, unless you’re a millionaire. LOL! Linda

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  11. Linda, great article & list! I will pass it on & hopefully make a difference in the decisions some of my ‘on the fence’ friends are considering. God Bless you and all the folks who share their wisdom in the comments!

    It is concerning to see how many people still have their heads in the sand here in NW Florida…. even more so when we’ve just entered Hurricane season. We always have so many new folks move into this area that have never experienced hurricanes. It’s a pretty hard wake up call when they do go through their first one.

    We still have another week of sales tax free hurricane prep here, but you don’t see many folks even getting batteries, much less tarps, shutters, generators or extra water. One good thing…. this year basic pet supplies are included in the tax free hurricane prep time. Things like crates, puppy pads, kitty litter & pans, canned, pouched & dry foods, travel bowls, collars & leashes within certain weight or price ranges are included. Perhaps fewer pets will be left behind when people evacuate ahead of a hurricane.

    Here I’ll be harvesting the first homegrown potatoes this week. Will be digging out my dehydrator for those. I’ve been vacuum sealing up a storm! Rice, lentils, hashbrowns & mashed potatoes, pastas, nuts, dry dog & cat food! If it fit in the bag, I sealed it!

    I tried my hand at waterglassing eggs & just put my first batch to rest last week. Have another batch of those started. Will also be saving some of our older homegrown eggs with mineral oil. Will have tomatoes to pick by the end of the week, possibly pomegranates too.

    I am so glad I am finally retiring in a couple of weeks…. maybe I can actually get things done here at home this summer! And I have 2 new friends who are experienced with pressure canning, so I can finally learn how to use my pressure canner. Both are Master Canners and great teachers. We are planning a couple days of canning together until I’m more comfortable with the process. Looking forward to that for sure!

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    1. BDN,
      Good Job! I did waterglassed eggs a couple years ago.. they keep well for about 12-18 months if kept cool. Should one break . dip it out. make up fresh water to rinse each of the remaining eggs in, and place washed eggs in a fresh solution that is about 1.5x as strong as orig. solution. ( my orig was 1 oz canning lime to one qt water). Use that container first in rotation.. I have begun using 2 gallon container instead of 5 gallon.It makes them easier to rotate in use..
      Just canned some fully cooked , de-boned meats.. one pint = approx one lb. qts= approx 2 lbs. Keep this in mind as you purchase more jars.. now is the time- before someone declares canning season is over before it begins- like they did last year!
      I have also cooked them completely, without any oil or additives. dice them up with spatula and dehydrate, put in food processor and process to size of cornmeal. Store in pints or hal pints and add oxygen absorber.They work well this way to use in baked goods, protein shakes. also re-hydrated are scrambled eggs. one tablespoon w/2 tbsp water= 1 large egg.They are fully cooked before dehydration and dehydrator “cooks them again.. should be hard as rocks when finished , in dehydrator.

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    2. Hi BDN, congrats on retiring soon! I love hearing you have two friends who are Master Canners! I got mine and it was so fun!! They will show you the best canning books to use. Do not follow online canners, get the Ball book or the USDA Canning Guide. You can do it, it’s easy!!! https://amzn.to/3mivbas or https://amzn.to/3tgAwmo. You can download the USDA one but it takes a LOT of paper. Linda

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      1. Linda, if you are a complete novice at canning, which of the two books would you recommend? I was given an unused pressure canner and need to start using it.

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        1. Hi Topaz, I have both books. I update as the canning techniques change. The USDA is the one we used in my Master Canner Preserver classes. Both are excellent books. They are pretty reasonable as well. The USDA has a date of 2015 (which is the last one that they produced). It’s still a good one today, they changed their book to go with the change in our food which is less acidic. You may remember growing up and eating too many tomatoes and you may have gotten canker sores. Not so much anymore because the plants have changed. https://amzn.to/3mivbas or https://amzn.to/3tgAwmo Have fun canning, you will love it! Linda

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  12. Thanks for the encouragement, Denise & Linda! I’m using 1/2 gallon & gallon jars for the waterglassed eggs. Those are heavy enough! Appreciate the info in case one breaks, Denise. Putting that & the dehydrating info in my notebook!

    I bought both the Ball & USDA canning books a few years ago when I bought the canner. But I wanted guidance & help before I tackled pressure canning on my own. I still remember that a canner lid blew off when my grandma & mom were canning one summer.

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    1. BDN, Before you put on your lid, esp. after you begin using it for back to back runs, to be sure to check the vents, make sure they are clear. The episodes of canners exploding is usually someone trying to chill it too fast so they can remove the lid and contents too fast or the vent pipes becoming stopped. Either way one of the things that can be done is to leave it alone, let it cool. if time is complete. food will be ok. If not you could have a large batch Of veggies that has to be eaten/frozen quickly or meat that needs to be processed with fresh lids rings, jars.. Reprocessing meat makes it more tender. Veggies go really mushy.
      I am not a master canner but have been learning tips from some. For meats always clean all rims with hot clean towel then wipe the rims with vinegar – to remove any fats that could have landed there..then i lid with very warm lids.. I usually get 100% seals. depending on the lid source. I am in a high humidity area and rust can become a problem with some lids. After jars are cooled and lids are checked for seal i wash them well in soapy water, dry well and put a little oil on a paper towel. i wipe every rim of lidded jars, and leave most bands off.If conditions warrant i will replace them very loosely after bands are washed, and lightly oiled. This has stopped my rust issues.

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      1. Denise, thank you so very much for sharing your encouragement and expertise! Am adding the tip about stopping rust to my reference notes!

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  13. Linda:
    You gave me a whole lot to think about with this newsletter. I love all your newsletter but this one really made me think.

    Love
    Jackie

    Reply

  14. I love following your site, good advice.
    A couple of my friends & myself are trying to tell others about stocking up but to no avail.
    Do you know what Denise meant in that she cooks scrambled eggs, dehydrates & then rehydrates, measures out to use as in baking?
    Thanks,
    Betty

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    2. Betty,
      I dehydrate and store my eggs as whole egg powder in pint jars with oxygen absorbers. Not freeze dried but dehydrated.Similar to preparation the big companies that prepare them for sale.IF THRIVE and Mountain house CAN prepare eggs for long term storage, I can also. I don’t require approval of my methods..not even the usda corporation.I did DO my research and found out the upside and down side of food storage…ie what causes food to spoil- light, heat, moisture and oxygen. for fully cooked foods…I would encourage you to investigate every up and down of what ever method you choose.
      .When one cooks and then dehydrates eggs, they are cooked TWICE before being powdered!…. and are safe to rehydrate and eat, or could eat them without anything further….
      I have used some 3 years old… and they have been good.I tend to use them for cakes, but not meringue,or for scrambled eggs..one tablespoon of powder +2 tbsp water = one large egg.
      . The one thing that must be done is they must be very dry, like rocks all way thru.This is achieved thru the small sizes of the pcs, easier and quicker. When removed from tray they should be allowed to completely cool if put in a jar – will notice they ping. i do grind them quickly and they can be placed on fruit leather tray and run for more time if you find any moisture in them.

      Reply

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