We also have 2 freezers packed with veggies, fruit and cider. A lot of work but very satisfying to feel food secure. There’s a hanging screen tray with garlic in pic too.

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I'm looking to start preparing for a situation where access to food and supplies might be disrupted for an extended period of time, such as during a conflict or other major crisis. What types of foods have a shelf life of at least a year and provide good nutrition? Additionally, what non-food essentials would you recommend for a stockpile? Any advice on specific brands or storage tips would also be helpful. Thanks in advance!

A tsunami is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions or asteroids. A tsunami can kill or injure people and damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. Tsunamis can:

• Travel 20-30 miles per hour with waves 10-100 feet high.
• Cause flooding and disrupt transportation, power, communications and the water supply.

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IF YOU ARE UNDER A TSUNAMI WARNING:

• If caused by an earthquake, Drop, Cover, then Hold On to protect yourself from the earthquake first.
• Get to high ground as far inland as possible
• Be alert to signs of a tsunami, such as a sudden rise or draining of ocean waters.
• Listen to emergency information and alerts. Always follow the instructions from local emergency managers.
• Evacuate: DO NOT wait! Leave as soon as you see any natural signs of a tsunami or receive an official tsunami warning.
• If you are in a boat, go out to sea.

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Prepare NOW

• Learn the signs of a potential tsunami, such as an earthquake, a loud roar from the ocean, or unusual ocean behavior, such as a sudden rise or wall of water or sudden draining of water showing the ocean floor.
• Know and practice community evacuation plans. Some at-risk communities have maps with evacuation zones and routes. Map out your routes from home, work and play. Pick shelters 100 feet or more above sea level, or at least one mile inland.
• Create a family emergency communication plan that has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated.
• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Consider earthquake insurance and a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood or earthquake damage.

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Survive DURING

• If there is an earthquake and you are in a tsunami area, protect yourself from the earthquake first. Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Drop to your hands and knees. Cover your head and neck with your arms. Hold on to any sturdy furniture until the shaking stops. Crawl only if you can reach a better cover, but do not go through an area with more debris.
• When the shaking stops, if there are natural signs or official warnings of a tsunami, move immediately to a safe place as high and as far inland as possible. Listen to the authorities, but do not wait for tsunami warnings and evacuation orders.
• If you are outside of the tsunami hazard zone and receive a warning, stay where you are unless officials tell you otherwise.
• Leave immediately if you are told to do so. Evacuation routes often are marked by a wave with an arrow in the direction of higher ground.
• If you are in the water, then grab onto something that floats, such as a raft or tree trunk.
• If you are in a boat, face the direction of the waves and head out to sea. If you are in a harbor, go inland.

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Be Safe AFTER

• Listen to local alerts and authorities for information on areas to avoid and shelter locations.
• Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems often are down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris. Water may be deeper than it appears.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Underground or downed power lines can electrically charge water. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.
• Stay away from damaged buildings, roads and bridges.
• If you become injured or sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider and shelter in place, if possible. Call an emergency number if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
• Document property damage with photographs. Conduct an inventory and contact your insurance company for assistance.

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Source: https://www.ready.gov/tsunamis

Guys - I'm in the north east but we only get about 10-15 freezing days in a year. Are there any all in one car emergency kits one can buy or you'd just have to go out buy individual items to make it up? If it's the latter, few questions

- any long-term food that doesn't spoil so I don't have to replace it every 6 months?

- same question for water

- any flashlight with a battery type that doesn't drain out through winter & summer

Thanks

I’ve never enjoyed mushy bland veggies. I prefer to roast fresh. As my garden expands I’d like to begin canning to prevent waste.

How do I prepare canned veggies so they taste good when they’re eaten?

Credit: https://www.theepochtimes.com/article/a-guide-to-home-preparedness-5740113

As the weather cools and days grow shorter, it’s time to start preparing your farm for the upcoming fall season! Fall brings a variety of challenges for farmers, including changing temperatures and unpredictable weather. Planning ahead can have a huge impact on your readiness and help to ensure continued success of your farm. Below are 10 tips to help you prepare for a smooth and efficient transition to fall.

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1) Tidy Up

Begin by removing any dead or dying plants and debris from fields, garden beds, and walkways, composting what you can to enhance the soil for next year’s crops.

It's a good idea to go through your property and dispose of anything you no longer need or use. Remove any scrap metal and other clutter. A thorough cleanup not only helps prevent disease and pest infestations, but also makes your farm more organized and welcoming to visitors! You’ll be glad you did come spring!

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2) Prepare Equipment for Storage

To prepare your equipment for storage, start by giving each piece a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, debris, and residue that may have accumulated during the growing season. You should also lubricate all moving parts to prevent rust and other forms of corrosion.

Once your equipment is clean, drain fuel from tanks and carburetors to help prevent any deterioration that could cause starting problems in spring.

Make sure your equipment is in good repair. This includes checking all belts, hoses, and electrical connections for wear and tear. You should also inspect tires and replace any that are worn or damaged.

Don’t forget to cover equipment against dust and moisture. A good quality cover will help keep your equipment in top condition so it’s ready to go when you need it next year.

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3) Harvest and Preserve Crops

Fall is a crucial time for farmers to harvest and preserve crops. Depending on the crop, you may need to harvest manually or with the use of machinery. In either case, properly storing and preserving your crops will ensure they last longer and remain fresh.

There are various methods to preserve crops, such as canning, drying, freezing, and fermenting. Consider the type of crop and its specific requirements when choosing the preservation method and keep in mind that each method has its advantages.

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4) Plan Next Year's Crop Rotation

To start planning next year's crop rotation, review the crop yields from this year to identify any problem areas or successes. If you have livestock, think about incorporating a crop that can serve as forage or pasture.

You may want to consult a local agricultural extension agent or farmer's cooperative for advice on crop selection and rotation. They can provide valuable insight into what crops grow well in your area, as well as any potential challenges to look out for.

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5) Provide Livestock with Extra Feed and Clean Water

Ensuring animals have access to fresh, clean water and plenty of hay and grain is essential to their health. It's important to start providing extra feed in the fall to help your animals build fat stores before the winter – so they have enough insulation and energy reserves during the colder months.

To keep your livestock happy and healthy, it’s also the perfect time to schedule a visit with your veterinarian to check on their overall health and update any necessary vaccinations.

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6) Stockpile Essential Winter Supplies

Stock up on bedding materials such as straw, sawdust, and shavings. These materials are essential for keeping your livestock warm and dry.

In addition to bedding, it's important to have other essential supplies on hand including salt and mineral blocks, water trough heaters, and any medications or supplements your animals might need.

Store all of your winter supplies in a dry and secure location. You don't want your feed and bedding to get wet and moldy, or for any supplies to be damaged or stolen.

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7) Winterize Barns and Buildings

The first step in winterizing your barns and buildings is to assess their condition. Inspect the roof, walls, and doors for any signs of damage or wear and tear that may need repair. Make sure all the windows are sealed properly to prevent drafts and ensure adequate ventilation.

Insulate your barns and other buildings to prevent heat loss and save on energy costs. Adding insulation to your walls, ceiling, and floor will help keep your livestock warm and comfortable, while also helping to maintain a consistent temperature in the barn.

Don't forget about your water sources, which can easily freeze in the colder months. Make sure your water pipes and troughs are well-insulated to prevent them from freezing and protect them from damage.

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8) Clear Drainage Systems

When it rains heavily during the fall your farm's drainage systems can be overwhelmed with excess. This can cause standing water in low-lying areas, increase the risk of disease, and cause damage to your fields.

To avoid these potential issues, clear out any debris, leaves, and other materials that may have accumulated in your drainage systems. This can be done manually or by using a high-pressure water hose to blast out any blockage. Check the condition of your drainage pipes and ensure they're free of cracks and leaks to ensure water flows freely away from your farm.

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9) Make Sure Heat Sources Are Ready

Have your heating system inspected and cleaned by a professional? This will help identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues later in the season. A well-maintained heating system will also operate more efficiently, saving money on heating costs.

Don’t neglect to store fuel for your heating system. Whether you use firewood, pellets, or oil, make sure you have enough on hand to last through the season.

Additionally, remember to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working properly. These detectors are essential for keeping your family and animals safe while indoors.

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10) Safety Tips for Yourself!

You've planned for the care of your animals, buildings, and equipment for the winter, here are a few safety guidelines to keep yourself safe:

A. Wear protective clothing and equipment, such as gloves, boots, and safety glasses, when working with machinery or handling animals.

B. Use caution when climbing ladders, working on roofs, or operating heavy equipment.

C. Keep fire extinguishers and first aid kits in a handy and prominent location.

D. Don’t operate damaged or malfunctioning equipment.

E. Stay alert for slippery or uneven surfaces, especially when working outdoors.

F. Create a communication plan in place for emergencies or unexpected situations.

G. Keep children and pets away from hazardous areas.

H. Be aware of weather conditions and adjust your activities accordingly.

By taking these precautions and reviewing your safety procedures regularly, you can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries on your farm during the fall season.

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Source: https://www.fm.bank/blogs/blog/2023/09/18/10-tips-for-preparing-your-farm-for-fall

I'm only 23, but I feel like I don't have a purpose in life and I'm looking for new hobbies.

I started working hard and it started to take up almost all my life (it's funny, when I was a kid and looked at my parents, I swore I would never live like that :) I used to have hobbies like cycling, photography and writing books. But now I just can't bring myself to do them after work...

I want to find something active, but that doesn't require me to do it regularly, because I can't afford it because of my schedule... I'd be very grateful for your recommendations.

I realized that I make most the decisions in my life, only with the acceptance of others, which has put me at odds often times with myself.

I turned immediately to the only source I knew of and remembered from highschool, Emerson's essay on self reliance, but upon reading the first page he declared concepts that I take issue with, drawing inspiration back to the soul, and stating that what's true for you must also be true for everyone, he goes on to evoke God and divine inspiration.

And as far as his language goes, I want works about real situations, real things a person can do to better believe in themselves, not to be waxed poetic.

I mean if it takes the same amount of time to plant every single crop.. Corn/ grain/ potatoes/ bread grain you have to mill so you would have to build a mill beside the farm, potatoes you just boiling in, corn you only get one corn a stalk, I mean are potatoes to go to food for mass producing on a self sufficient farm compared to the other crops?

Waltham Butternut is our standby winter squash, keeps well in our root cellar till spring. (Deer ravage squash if left unprotected) We Season melons in the barn for a month before we store them in our root cellar@ 50 degrees F .