PREP The Top 50 Things to Disappear from Store Shelves during an Emergency

BREWER

Veteran Member
Posted for fair use and discussion. This is written by a combat vetran Marine. Hoo-Ra. We see all kinds of lists;however, I didn't find anything on this list that wasn't a staple except for a couple of items which were of a personal preference.


http://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/t...ppear-from-store-shelves-during-an-emergency/

The Top 50 Things to Disappear from Store Shelves during an Emergency
April 19, 2013 By M.D. Creekmore

By Tom Sciacca

Have you ever noticed how, whenever a big storm is predicted, people start rushing to stores to clean them out of ever food item and supply they have on the shelves? In one sense, it’s probably good that they are trying to anticipate the emergency, despite being last-minute about it. It sure beats those people who don’t bother to prepare at all, then complain when emergency services are overwhelmed by requests for assistance.

But why panic in the first place? Why not have a stash of necessary items always ready for such an emergency? Even if there isn’t a storm approaching, it’s nice to know that you don’t have to rush out to the store every time you run out of toilet paper. Keeping some extra around the house is always a good idea!

With this in mind, I decided to ask CampingSurvival.com’s Facebook fans what they felt were the emergency supplies that stores were most likely to run out of when people start to panic. Then I compiled the top comments in various categories so I could share it with you. Since this list is based on the comments of our Facebook fan page, some of the items (canned meat, for instance) may not be the absolute first things for a store to run out of, but are still items that you should consider having among your emergency supplies nonetheless.

Without further ado, here the list of the Top 50 Things to Disappear from Store Shelves during an Emergency, compiled by yours truly:

FOOD
1.Bread
2.Butter
3.Cereal
4.Coffee
5.Eggs
6.Flour
7.Fruit, canned and fresh
8.Honey
9.Meats, canned
10.Milk
11.Peanut butter
12.Pet food
13.Salt
14.Sugar
15.Vegetables, canned and root vegetables
16.Water

POWER AND LIGHT
17.Batteries
18.Candles
19.Charcoal
20.Coolers
21.Flashlights
22.Gasoline
23.Generators
24.Glow sticks
25.Ice
26.Lamp oil and oil lanterns
27.Lighter fluid
28.Matches
29.Propane, propane stoves

FUN
30.Alcohol, drinking
31.Beer
32.Cigarettes
33.Condoms

FIRST AID
34.Alcohol, rubbing
35.Antiseptic
36.Aspirin/pain relievers
37.Cold medicine
38.First aid kits

HYGIENE
39.Feminine hygiene products
40.Paper plates/napkins
41.Shampoo
42.Soap
43.Toilet paper

BABIES
44.Baby food/formula
45.Diapers

IMPROVISATION
46.Duct tape
47.Plastic bags
48.Plywood
49.Radios
50.Rope

Now, before you file this away as mildly interesting reading, take this list and compare it to what you have stocked up. Check to see what you may be missing or what you need more of. And don’t forget that this is only a Top 50 list, so there are plenty of other items that I don’t have space to talk about in this (already long!) blog entry.

Tom Sciacca is a former US Marine, a veteran of the Gulf War, a survival enthusiast and President of CampingSurvival.com.

Check out these related articles:

Build your stash $1 at a time at the dollar store
How Long Will My Wheat Store?
A Food Store That No Prepper Should Be Without
Weather Emergency: Four Non-Intuitive Disaster Kit Necessities

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

ETA: As an aside I've been going through my various 'kits' lately throwing out some items and rotating others, and I've been buying those bulky 'D' cell and 6 V batteries for my old maglites, laterns, and other flashlights that have been replaced by more efficient LED's. They've been sitting for years w/o batteries in them so there is no damage, but I'm not willing to chuck perfectly good 'flashlights' just because their old and less efficient. They are now scattered around the house in rooms that I don't go into very often [Plan 'B']. In some rooms there are a now two flashlights in a single room...one at the doorway and one at the other side of the room.

I line hang dry most of my laundry on nice days;however, there seem to be too many days lately where the bloody chemtrails are just terrible. So I dug out a 20' retractable clothesline for indoors where I can hang up my clothes which are not dripping wet. I use another area outside that is covered where the clothesline is under a canopy and then there is the convention clothesline in open air.

Though not a necessity for most people I would recommend going to Lowe's, Ace, or your local hardware store and picking up some[100 ct] wooden clothespins and 100' of vinyl clothesline. You can still hang clothes outside in 40F weather, and if it is dry [low humidity] enough with a wind blowing, your laundry will dry out given enough time. It saves me US$'s. I'm in an area where there are no zoning restrictions nor neighbors to complain. I do have wooden drying rack which I can set up in the bathtub for really wet items.

Folks, times are only going to get harder so any way we can save US$'s is welcome. Take care. BREWER
 

shoddy61

Inactive
Brewer,
Many thanks for posting. Started a few lists before, never really completed. That one seem as complete as we will find. Depending on the TYPE of Emergency on whether most of those items will go in a day or week.
sonny
 

Illini Warrior

Illini Warrior
the storm "last minute buyers" also buy up "after storm - clean up" supplies .... shovels, rakes, brooms, hand saws, extension cords, portable liting, gas cans, garbage cans, lawn bags, buckets and more buckets, paper towels/rags, bleach, various cleaning solutions, and all the big stuff goes also - generators, BBQ grills, power washers, chippers, chain saws and even lawn mowers
 

summerthyme

Administrator
_______________
ETA: As an aside I've been going through my various 'kits' lately throwing out some items and rotating others, and I've been buying those bulky 'D' cell and 6 V batteries for my old maglites, laterns, and other flashlights that have been replaced by more efficient LED's. They've been sitting for years w/o batteries in them so there is no damage, but I'm not willing to chuck perfectly good 'flashlights' just because their old and less efficient. They are now scattered around the house in rooms that I don't go into very often [Plan 'B']. In some rooms there are a now two flashlights in a single room...one at the doorway and one at the other side of the room.

Something I did a long time ago, when we had a bunch of teens running around, and flashlights seemed to vanish daily, was to buy some sticky backed velcro. I put the "loop" side on a flashlight, and the hook side on the wall or wherever a light would be appreciated (on the breaker box in the basement, at the top and bottom of every staircase, beside the bed, next to the cabinet that has matches, candles and oil lamp oil).

The kids were informed in no uncertain terms that THOSE lights were for emergencies and were not to be borrowed.

More than once, a sudden power outage made being able to grab a flashlight before having to feel our way to the door to go out to set up the generator or whatever very handy.

Summerthyme
 

Publius

TB Fanatic
Add two to that list!

Gas cans and generators. Every time we have a major event that take out power all the generator's are completely sold out within an hour or less of the stores being open for biz.

I'm getting ready to do an article here on a generator I bought just a few months ago and the writeup will also include safe wiring to the house electric panel box.
 

Gitche Gumee Kid

Veteran Member
QUOTE=summerthyme;5475116]Something I did a long time ago, when we had a bunch of teens running around, and flashlights seemed to vanish daily, was to buy some sticky backed velcro. I put the "loop" side on a flashlight, and the hook side on the wall or wherever a light would be appreciated (on the breaker box in the basement, at the top and bottom of every staircase, beside the bed, next to the cabinet that has matches, candles and oil lamp oil).

The kids were informed in no uncertain terms that THOSE lights were for emergencies and were not to be borrowed.

More than once, a sudden power outage made being able to grab a flashlight before having to feel our way to the door to go out to set up the generator or whatever very handy.

Summerthyme[/QUOTE]
<====================================0=====================================>

ST,
Great suggestion.Permit me to add my mine.

Several years ago when LED flashlights were showing up on the store shelves , Walmart was discounting their remaining "old style" flashlights.
I bought several and made holders. These were placed around the house( ala Summerthyme's suggestion)
th_JRSonKLR650439_zps11a291c5.jpg
[/URL][/IMG]

th_JRSonKLR650437_zps535b7dc5.jpg
[/URL][/IMG]

GGK

ETA Pics can be enlarged by clicking on them
 

Publius

TB Fanatic
I had some minor arguments about flashlights and their batteries being used for other things and it took a power outage while I was away for her and my son to learn the lesson and after that wife learned to put he foot down when our sun is wanting to play his portable battery operated games that the flashlights and the batteries reserved for them are off limits.


As for LED flashlights it gotten difficult to find LED flashlights that use only one LED light and will last for 100 hours or so on three AA or AAA batteries.
 

NoDandy

Has No Life - Lives on TB
I'm getting ready to do an article here on a generator I bought just a few months ago and the writeup will also include safe wiring to the house electric panel box.

Check with an electrician, or an electrical supply store. Ask about a "Transfer Switch". It enables you to plug in your generator, and you do not have to worry about your generator "charging' the lines, and possibly injuring a power worker. Plus you or your family members do not have to get into your breaker box.

Talk with pro's, you & your family will really be glad you did. The switch is not that expensive.

Be safe.
 

Publius

TB Fanatic
Check with an electrician, or an electrical supply store. Ask about a "Transfer Switch". It enables you to plug in your generator, and you do not have to worry about your generator "charging' the lines, and possibly injuring a power worker. Plus you or your family members do not have to get into your breaker box.

Talk with pro's, you & your family will really be glad you did. The switch is not that expensive.

Be safe.


Transfer switch limits my options!

I bought an interlock kit and that way I can manage my power needs with the whole panel box and really the generator is big enough to run almost everything but the resistance heat on the heat pump and I can cut that off with a flip of a light switch, but we heat with wood so that part of the heat pump almost never gets used anyway.
 

BREWER

Veteran Member
Greetings, everyone: Thanks for all the good suggestions. It seems that the times-they-are-a-changin', and I'm probably not the only one here that is
feeling a little more 'doomy' as of late. Could be the weather;however, I believe it is more than just that.

Here's a for instance that has bothered me for the last 10-14 days. Why is my forsythia in bloom...in December?! The honeysuckle which is intertwined with it
was blooming a couple of weeks ago too. The weather is not just weird around here[central VA] there are tons of chemical spraying planes all the time here, too.

As I said I don't even want to allow my laundry to dry out on the open clothesline. O.k. back to regular programming...take care everyone. BREWER
 

BREWER

Veteran Member
Posted for fair use and discussion.
http://thesurvivalmom.com/15-non-traditional-containers-for-your-bug-out-bagemergency-kit/

16 Non-Traditional Containers For Your Bug Out Bag/Emergency Kit

Posted in: Evacuation, Featured, Preparedness 101

[Pin It]

A backpack might not be the best choice for an emergency kit. Check out this list of non-traditional containers! | via www.TheSurvivalMom.com

When it comes to selecting a bag for an emergency kit, many of us veer in the direction of tactical looking backpacks, or any type of backpack at all. And, it’s no wonder. A good backpack will have multiple pockets and pouches to help organize your gear and supplies, they can be carried on your back, leaving hands free, but they aren’t always the right solution for every scenario.
Here are a few non-traditional containers for your bug out bag or emergency kit that maybe you haven’t considered.

A rolling suitcase on wheels

Look for sturdy wheels because if one breaks off, you’ll be carrying that suitcase. Not fun! Some of these suitcases also have backpack straps.

A Rubbermaid container with lid

You select whichever size suits your needs and space. These are a good choice because the bin itself can be used to hold water, kindling, and a lot more.

Under the bed storage container

Mine fits perfectly in the back of my Tahoe and the transparent plastic lets me see the contents.

Trash can on wheels

These hold a lot, are very sturdy, and have an attached lid. They will also be heavy and difficult to load into a truck. However, if a trailer is part of your bug out/evacuation plans, you could store a trash can, fully packed, in the trailer. Include a box of heavy-duty black trash bags to keep the interior of the trash can clean if you ever have to use it for actual trash!

Space Bags

Great for use with softer items, such as blankets, coats, jackets, and pillows.

5-gallon buckets with lid

Again, these buckets have multiple uses besides holding your emergency kit contents. A product like the Bucket Backpack would provide an alternative way to carry the bucket longer distances.

Multiple milk crates

My husband swears by these! They are extremely durable, stack easily, but do not have lids. They’re also free if you can find a grocery store that will give you one or more.

Military duffel bag

Soft-sided means you’ll be able to shove this bag behind and between things, and they come in several sizes. Their muted colors are also a plus.

Ziploc Flexible Tote

Inexpensive, can easily see inside the tote, and lightweight. Not heavy duty, though, if your evacuation includes trekking through the wilderness.

Diaper bag

The waterproof lining could be very helpful, especially if you have small kids and/or a baby.

Tool box

Not lightweight but could be very useful for protecting fragile items.

Metal bucket with lid

I have this one and it’s definitely a multi-purpose container.

A storage locker, preferably one with wheels

Heavy-duty black trash bags

Be sure to the buy “contractor” bags. These are amazingly resilient, stretch a bit as you stuff more into them, and are very cheap. They would be useful for packing soft things like bedding, clothing, and sleeping bags.

A messenger bag with shoulder strap

Anything with a shoulder strap will leave both hands free and might be easier to carry than a backpack for someone with back problems.

A fisherman or photo vest

Obviously this won’t carry as much as these other containers, but with all the multiple pockets, you could keep the most essential items close at hand.

When planning for an emergency evacuation, I recommend dividing the contents of your emergency kit into 2 or more different types of containers. For example, a 5-gallon bucket can hold food and cooking supplies and will provide an emergency toilet, a large water container, and a handy tote for firewood. Then use a Space Bag to hold sleeping bags and cold weather clothing and finally a large backpack for everything else. You’ll have 2 multi-purpose containers and a backpack large enough to hold all the essentials in case you have no choice but to continue your evacuation on foot and have to leave the bucket and Space Bag behind.

When choosing your containers, keep in mind that they might be in for a pretty rugged future. Look for:

Extremely durable fabrics
Sturdy construction
Heavy-duty zippers, snaps, or other closures
Colors that blend in
Non-tactical appearance. This may cause you to look too prepared and a potential target.
Tight fitting lids

Also keep in mind the different ages and physical capabilities of your family members. Even young kids can carry small backpacks, easing the load for parents and teens.

There may be links in the post above that are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission, which does not affect the price you pay for the product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.
 

R.Tist

Membership Revoked
Posted for fair use and discussion. This is written by a combat vetran Marine. Hoo-Ra. We see all kinds of lists;however, I didn't find anything on this list that wasn't a staple except for a couple of items which were of a personal preference.


http://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/t...ppear-from-store-shelves-during-an-emergency/

The Top 50 Things to Disappear from Store Shelves during an Emergency
April 19, 2013 By M.D. Creekmore

By Tom Sciacca

Have you ever noticed how, whenever a big storm is predicted, people start rushing to stores to clean them out of ever food item and supply they have on the shelves? In one sense, it’s probably good that they are trying to anticipate the emergency, despite being last-minute about it. It sure beats those people who don’t bother to prepare at all, then complain when emergency services are overwhelmed by requests for assistance.

But why panic in the first place? Why not have a stash of necessary items always ready for such an emergency? Even if there isn’t a storm approaching, it’s nice to know that you don’t have to rush out to the store every time you run out of toilet paper. Keeping some extra around the house is always a good idea!

With this in mind, I decided to ask CampingSurvival.com’s Facebook fans what they felt were the emergency supplies that stores were most likely to run out of when people start to panic. Then I compiled the top comments in various categories so I could share it with you. Since this list is based on the comments of our Facebook fan page, some of the items (canned meat, for instance) may not be the absolute first things for a store to run out of, but are still items that you should consider having among your emergency supplies nonetheless.

Without further ado, here the list of the Top 50 Things to Disappear from Store Shelves during an Emergency, compiled by yours truly:

FOOD
1.Bread
2.Butter
3.Cereal
4.Coffee
5.Eggs
6.Flour
7.Fruit, canned and fresh
8.Honey
9.Meats, canned
10.Milk
11.Peanut butter
12.Pet food
13.Salt
14.Sugar
15.Vegetables, canned and root vegetables
16.Water

POWER AND LIGHT
17.Batteries
18.Candles
19.Charcoal
20.Coolers
21.Flashlights
22.Gasoline
23.Generators
24.Glow sticks
25.Ice
26.Lamp oil and oil lanterns
27.Lighter fluid
28.Matches
29.Propane, propane stoves

FUN
30.Alcohol, drinking
31.Beer
32.Cigarettes
33.Condoms

FIRST AID
34.Alcohol, rubbing
35.Antiseptic
36.Aspirin/pain relievers
37.Cold medicine
38.First aid kits

HYGIENE
39.Feminine hygiene products
40.Paper plates/napkins
41.Shampoo
42.Soap
43.Toilet paper

BABIES
44.Baby food/formula
45.Diapers

IMPROVISATION
46.Duct tape
47.Plastic bags
48.Plywood
49.Radios
50.Rope

Now, before you file this away as mildly interesting reading, take this list and compare it to what you have stocked up. Check to see what you may be missing or what you need more of. And don’t forget that this is only a Top 50 list, so there are plenty of other items that I don’t have space to talk about in this (already long!) blog entry.

Tom Sciacca is a former US Marine, a veteran of the Gulf War, a survival enthusiast and President of CampingSurvival.com.

Check out these related articles:

Build your stash $1 at a time at the dollar store
How Long Will My Wheat Store?
A Food Store That No Prepper Should Be Without
Weather Emergency: Four Non-Intuitive Disaster Kit Necessities

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

ETA: As an aside I've been going through my various 'kits' lately throwing out some items and rotating others, and I've been buying those bulky 'D' cell and 6 V batteries for my old maglites, laterns, and other flashlights that have been replaced by more efficient LED's. They've been sitting for years w/o batteries in them so there is no damage, but I'm not willing to chuck perfectly good 'flashlights' just because their old and less efficient. They are now scattered around the house in rooms that I don't go into very often [Plan 'B']. In some rooms there are a now two flashlights in a single room...one at the doorway and one at the other side of the room.

I line hang dry most of my laundry on nice days;however, there seem to be too many days lately where the bloody chemtrails are just terrible. So I dug out a 20' retractable clothesline for indoors where I can hang up my clothes which are not dripping wet. I use another area outside that is covered where the clothesline is under a canopy and then there is the convention clothesline in open air.

Though not a necessity for most people I would recommend going to Lowe's, Ace, or your local hardware store and picking up some[100 ct] wooden clothespins and 100' of vinyl clothesline. You can still hang clothes outside in 40F weather, and if it is dry [low humidity] enough with a wind blowing, your laundry will dry out given enough time. It saves me US$'s. I'm in an area where there are no zoning restrictions nor neighbors to complain. I do have wooden drying rack which I can set up in the bathtub for really wet items.

Folks, times are only going to get harder so any way we can save US$'s is welcome. Take care. BREWER

Thanks, BREWER. It's good to take stock periodically.

In Scotland, where I come from, most houses have what we call a pulley - it's a 4-slat wooden drying rack that one hoists up to the ceiling. In tenement buildings, there isn't a whole lot of clean, backyard space, so most tenements have one of these over the bathtub, and another in the large kitchen for not-as-wet items. They're raised and lowered by a rope and anchored to a metal hook on the wall.

We didn't have washing machines either, so if you don't fancy the traditional 'plunge and scrub' method, in favor of keeping skin on your knuckles, you can use a plastic or metal bucket and use a toilet plunger as an agitator.

In our house, we just filled up the bath with cold water, Tide detergent, and plunged a couple of hundred times per load, and another couple of hundred to rinse the clothes. With maybe four loads a week, it's a fairly decent workout. Not so good for the back though.... ;)

Edited to add: After all the talk about flashlights, I thought I'd mention what DH and I do. We have a bookcase headboard on our bed, and the handy ledge on top accommodates baskets (I have loads of baskets). We each keep a headlight that glows bright, semi-bright, and red for at night, and one of the lights pulsates for attracting attention in emergencies - we keep one each in the car too - so if the power goes out we just reach up and don our headlights. They cost about $20 each and come with adjustable elastic straps, and they're comfortable to wear for as long as you like. I always keep one of the batteries turned upside down so as to preserve the power in all three of them. They use AAA batteries, by the way. Wearing a headlight means that you can walk from room to room without needing other lighting. They aren't in a fixed position, so you can aim them upward, straight ahead, or downward to read. (Three positions.)

We have other lighting 'Just in case,' but we don't need it. We're rather fond of the large, hand-held (6v battery) lights, and we keep one in every room.

We have lots of solar lights too, which we keep on the window sills, and we only turn them on in emergency situations. We also have solar lights outside the house, so it's easy to find our way down the many steps to the car. (Mountain living!)

Cheers!
 
Last edited:

Illini Warrior

Illini Warrior
Posted for fair use and discussion.
http://thesurvivalmom.com/15-non-traditional-containers-for-your-bug-out-bagemergency-kit/

16 Non-Traditional Containers For Your Bug Out Bag/Emergency Kit

Posted in: Evacuation, Featured, Preparedness 101

[Pin It]

A backpack might not be the best choice for an emergency kit. Check out this list of non-traditional containers! | via www.TheSurvivalMom.com

When it comes to selecting a bag for an emergency kit, many of us veer in the direction of tactical looking backpacks, or any type of backpack at all. And, it’s no wonder. A good backpack will have multiple pockets and pouches to help organize your gear and supplies, they can be carried on your back, leaving hands free, but they aren’t always the right solution for every scenario.
Here are a few non-traditional containers for your bug out bag or emergency kit that maybe you haven’t considered.

A rolling suitcase on wheels

Look for sturdy wheels because if one breaks off, you’ll be carrying that suitcase. Not fun! Some of these suitcases also have backpack straps.

A Rubbermaid container with lid

You select whichever size suits your needs and space. These are a good choice because the bin itself can be used to hold water, kindling, and a lot more.

Under the bed storage container

Mine fits perfectly in the back of my Tahoe and the transparent plastic lets me see the contents.

Trash can on wheels

These hold a lot, are very sturdy, and have an attached lid. They will also be heavy and difficult to load into a truck. However, if a trailer is part of your bug out/evacuation plans, you could store a trash can, fully packed, in the trailer. Include a box of heavy-duty black trash bags to keep the interior of the trash can clean if you ever have to use it for actual trash!

Space Bags

Great for use with softer items, such as blankets, coats, jackets, and pillows.

5-gallon buckets with lid

Again, these buckets have multiple uses besides holding your emergency kit contents. A product like the Bucket Backpack would provide an alternative way to carry the bucket longer distances.

Multiple milk crates

My husband swears by these! They are extremely durable, stack easily, but do not have lids. They’re also free if you can find a grocery store that will give you one or more.

Military duffel bag

Soft-sided means you’ll be able to shove this bag behind and between things, and they come in several sizes. Their muted colors are also a plus.

Ziploc Flexible Tote

Inexpensive, can easily see inside the tote, and lightweight. Not heavy duty, though, if your evacuation includes trekking through the wilderness.

Diaper bag

The waterproof lining could be very helpful, especially if you have small kids and/or a baby.

Tool box

Not lightweight but could be very useful for protecting fragile items.

Metal bucket with lid

I have this one and it’s definitely a multi-purpose container.

A storage locker, preferably one with wheels

Heavy-duty black trash bags

Be sure to the buy “contractor” bags. These are amazingly resilient, stretch a bit as you stuff more into them, and are very cheap. They would be useful for packing soft things like bedding, clothing, and sleeping bags.

A messenger bag with shoulder strap

Anything with a shoulder strap will leave both hands free and might be easier to carry than a backpack for someone with back problems.

A fisherman or photo vest

Obviously this won’t carry as much as these other containers, but with all the multiple pockets, you could keep the most essential items close at hand.

When planning for an emergency evacuation, I recommend dividing the contents of your emergency kit into 2 or more different types of containers. For example, a 5-gallon bucket can hold food and cooking supplies and will provide an emergency toilet, a large water container, and a handy tote for firewood. Then use a Space Bag to hold sleeping bags and cold weather clothing and finally a large backpack for everything else. You’ll have 2 multi-purpose containers and a backpack large enough to hold all the essentials in case you have no choice but to continue your evacuation on foot and have to leave the bucket and Space Bag behind.

When choosing your containers, keep in mind that they might be in for a pretty rugged future. Look for:

Extremely durable fabrics
Sturdy construction
Heavy-duty zippers, snaps, or other closures
Colors that blend in
Non-tactical appearance. This may cause you to look too prepared and a potential target.
Tight fitting lids

Also keep in mind the different ages and physical capabilities of your family members. Even young kids can carry small backpacks, easing the load for parents and teens.

There may be links in the post above that are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission, which does not affect the price you pay for the product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.



I have my whole bug out figured out ... but what about the all the useful stuff that has to be left behind? .... no chance to make multiple bug out trips .... leave it to get looted or burned?

I keep 20+ army duffel bags handy for just "sweeping" the work benches of tools/supply/equipment .... along with the bags I have seasonal change poly camo tarps - green veggie/brown/white .... have pre-determined rural locations for quik cache of the bags ....
 

Old Gray Mare

TB Fanatic
Here we settled the flashlight battery war by buying solar flash lights. They have designated sunny windows where they are "stored" so they will be charged and ready when needed. The off spring don't mess with them other than to use them as intended and return them to their designated window after use.
 

HDC

Contributing Member
I have both the D cell mag lights and mini mag lights (2 aa bats) I bought LED replacement bulbs for them. Better light and the batteries last longer and seem to take the hard knocks better.
 

BREWER

Veteran Member
Thanks, BREWER. It's good to take stock periodically.

In Scotland, where I come from, most houses have what we call a pulley - it's a 4-slat wooden drying rack that one hoists up to the ceiling. In tenement buildings, there isn't a whole lot of clean, backyard space, so most tenements have one of these over the bathtub, and another in the large kitchen for not-as-wet items. They're raised and lowered by a rope and anchored to a metal hook on the wall.

We didn't have washing machines either, so if you don't fancy the traditional 'plunge and scrub' method, in favor of keeping skin on your knuckles, you can use a plastic or metal bucket and use a toilet plunger as an agitator.

In our house, we just filled up the bath with cold water, Tide detergent, and plunged a couple of hundred times per load, and another couple of hundred to rinse the clothes. With maybe four loads a week, it's a fairly decent workout. Not so good for the back though.... ;)

Edited to add: After all the talk about flashlights, I thought I'd mention what DH and I do. We have a bookcase headboard on our bed, and the handy ledge on top accommodates baskets (I have loads of baskets). We each keep a headlight that glows bright, semi-bright, and red for at night, and one of the lights pulsates for attracting attention in emergencies - we keep one each in the car too - so if the power goes out we just reach up and don our headlights. They cost about $20 each and come with adjustable elastic straps, and they're comfortable to wear for as long as you like. I always keep one of the batteries turned upside down so as to preserve the power in all three of them. They use AAA batteries, by the way. Wearing a headlight means that you can walk from room to room without needing other lighting. They aren't in a fixed position, so you can aim them upward, straight ahead, or downward to read. (Three positions.)

We have other lighting 'Just in case,' but we don't need it. We're rather fond of the large, hand-held (6v battery) lights, and we keep one in every room.

We have lots of solar lights too, which we keep on the window sills, and we only turn them on in emergency situations. We also have solar lights outside the house, so it's easy to find our way down the many steps to the car. (Mountain living!)

Cheers!

Greetings, R.Tist: Thanks for the information. I've been looking at this... http://beprepared.com/mobile-washer-hand-operated-washing-machine.html

I've had the electric go out here several times a year and yes I have alt power;however, your suggestion about the using a plunger in the tub has pretty much convinced me to purchase the above listed devise. Thanks for sharing your stories. Take care. BREWER
 

Witness

Deceased
If you have a large backpack or suitcase on rollers,
inside it put a empty fanny pack or pocket tote bag.
That way you can downsize if needed.
 

Laurane

Canadian Loonie
If you are doing much plunging/washing, replace the short wooden handle with a longer broom handle and save your back.
 

dogmanan

Inactive
Well I have every one but 19,23,24,25,33 and I don't need thoses.

But I do have a complete set of surgical tools/supplies and things and the skill and knowledge to use it all.
 

dogmanan

Inactive
O I also use for many years now crank flashlights, I love them never have to worrie about batteries.

They work really good.
 
Top