In the fall of 1964 a group of tourists were shipwrecked on an island in the south Pacific. When they realized that no rescue was coming, they worked toward surviving on this small remote island.

What was supposed to a short 3-hour tour turned into a dire survival situation!

One passenger on the ship, who had been a professor, was able to use coconuts and bamboo to create many tools and resources to help the group survive. In fact, he even used coconuts to create a radio and a car!

OK, while making a radio or car out of coconuts might only happen on Gilligan’s Island, you can still use the helpful resources that the coconut tree provides to survive if you’re in a real emergency situation.

Coconut trees are very plentiful and grow in many parts of the world. A typical coconut tree produces about 50 coconuts each year and can be used for cooking, hunting, transportation and more. Check out these ideas on how you can use a coconut tree to survive in the wild because you never know when your tropical vacation could turn into a survival situation.

Small Hunting Spears
The center spine of the coconut tree leaf is very stiff and can be very useful for hunting. Strip the leafy parts of the spine. You may need to cut a more refined edge onto the coconut spine. The spine will be stiff enough to stab fish or other small wild game however it probably won’t be stiff enough to pierce a shell or exoskeleton.

Housing
Coconut tree lumber is unique in that the densest part of the tree is on the outside and the wood’s high silica content gives the tree elasticity. Because of that coconut timber can be used to make structures that are durable in the face of weather.

Sterile Water
As you’re probably well aware, coconuts often contain water (aka coconut milk) that can keep your pallet wet. Inside an immature coconut is a liquid that is slightly sweet and contains a lot of nutrients. According to Union County College, the water inside a coconut is so sterile that it was sometimes used as a replacement for glucose in IV solutions for wounded soldiers in WWII.

Fuel
Back in the day coconut leaves and trunks were often used as firewood due to their dry substance and fiber content. In fact, in some parts of Asia, people still use charcoal made from coconut made from coconut shells.

Ladles and Cups
The coconut shell can be used as a dish. Simply cut the coconut in two and use either side as a dish. It should hold a good amount of food or water. If you cut a hole in the bottom of one of the sides, it will also make a great funnel.

Bags and Mats
The leaves of the coconut tree grow to about 17 feet long and are extremely versatile. They can be used to create woven baskets, bags, hats or mats. You’ll want to find the leaves when they are pretty green because dried leaves will become stiff and won’t be able to weave very well.

Compost
The hard outer shell of the coconut is a natural fiber material and is great for composting. Strip and break the material as much as possible. The more you break down the material the faster it will decompose and become great compost material for gardening.

Trunk Raft
The trunk of the coconut tree also makes a great sea-bearing raft. Pacific Islanders have used the tree for thousands of years to create simple water vessels. Try and find the straightest tree possible and chop it down. Hollow out the center and balance out the raft by attaching another floating trunk to the side of the vessel.

What Ideas Do You Have?
Have you used coconuts for another purpose? Comment below to tell us what you have used coconuts for and help others learn too!

Paracord can be an awesome tool in your preparedness arsenal. This durable nylon rope can be tied into tons of different designs including bracelets, strengthened cords, pouches and more. If you’re in an emergency, you simply unwind the strong cord and use it to bind, haul or anything else that you might need.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an expert paracord lover, we have a design for you. Check out these paracord designs below. If you don’t want to spend time weaving your own bracelet, you can always let us do it for you.

What is Paracord?
Paracord, also known as parachute cord, is a soft, lightweight nylon rope that was originally used for parachuting. Typically, 550 paracord (which is the paracord used for our bracelets) is made of 32 strands of nylon sheath on the outside and seven strands of 2-ply nylon yarns on the inside (the “guts”). The 550 paracord is the same made for the government and has a minimum breaking strength of 550 lbs.

While paracord started out as a parachuters tool, people quickly recognized its usefulness in other areas. Since the cord is quick-drying, rot- and mildew-resistant, it’s great for many purposes. Military units use it for securing packs, hanging covers and tents. Many military personnel even use the guts as fishing line.

Check out these designs:
Paracord Bracelet
Paracord Snake Design
Paracord Woven Watchband
Paracord Keychain

Paracord Rifle Sling
You’ll need:
• 100 feet of paracord
• Needle nose pliers or forceps
• 2×4 of wood (as long as your desired sling length)
• 2 Flat Washers
• 2 Screws
• Knife
• Swivels off of your guns

Directions
1. You’ll first want to figure out how long you want your rifle sling to be. Since this isn’t an adjustable strap, you’ll want to make sure you get it right.

2. After you figure out how long you want it to be, measure that length on to a 2×4. At one end of the 2×4, you’ll want to attach the swivel from your gun. Be careful not to damage the swivel by screwing it too tight. Add some space by placing a washer between the wood. Secure the other swivel on the board at a distance that you would like your sling to be.

3. Take the paracord and tie one end securely to the swivel. Attach the other end of the line to the other swivel.

4. You’ll want to repeat this process a few times until you have 4 parallel cords running between the two swivels. Make sure there is spacing between each cord by wrapping the cord around a few times each time you come to the swivel. This will provide a buffer of space. Tie off the cord securely to swivel.

5. Now that you have the four cords running between the two swivels, begin to weave the paracord through the four strands – over one, under the next – and circle around and work your way down the four strands. Tighten the strand as you work your way down.

6. Once you reach the end, you’ll want to securely tie off the paracord. To do this, you can either tie a knot and tuck the loose end back into the sling, or you can tie a knot, cutting off one edge and burning the end of the paracord.

7. Remove the screws from the 2×4 in order to release the swivels and reattach them to the rifle.

What else have you made with paracord? Comment below to let us know. Or let us know what you’d like to see a tutorial on.

Imagine you are driving across the country and your car breaks down in the middle of the drive. What are you going to do? If you’re prepared and know how to signal for help, you can create signs and signal aircrafts for help. Most people know the SOS sign, but here are other things that emergency personal will recognize as messages.

Three Fires
Building three separate fires is an international signal for distress. Ideally, they should be placed in a triangle at equal distances. However, if you are injured or fuel isn’t available, you might only be able to build one fire which is a great start to signaling for help.

Many people have even built small rafts that they build fires on. This allows them to float their three-fire triangle in the middle of a lake or in a river where a passing aircraft is more likely to see them.

Single Fires
Smoking fires are a great way to signal for help from long distances. Be sure to set up your fire in a visible location so that people can see the flames or smoke before they dissipate. Typically, planes will fly from a high ridge to a low one

Ground-to-Air Codes
There are a few symbols that you can use to signify that you are in need. Typically, you’ll want to make these large and as noticeable as possible – usually a color that is contrasted with its surroundings.

	Serious Injury, Evacuation Required		Am Proceeding in This Direction
	Need Medical Supplies		Probably Safe to Land Here
	Unable to Move		Require Food and Water

Body Signaling
There are a series of signals that pilots and other airmen will understand and use. Make all of these signals in a clear and exaggerated manner.

	Need Medical Attention		Do Not Attempt to Land Here
	Land Here (Indicate Direction)		Affirmative
	Pick Us Up Here		Negative

If the pilot understands the message, he or she will continue flying the plane and tipping the wings in a rocking motion from side to side. If the pilot did not understand, they will begin flying the plane in a right-handed circle. At night time, the plane will either flash a green (affirmative) or red (negative) light to communicate.

Herbs have been used for thousands of years as a medicine to help your body heal naturally and effectively. Herbs such as Borage, Yarrow, Cayenne and more can be used to treat infections, fight blood loss, treat sickness and more.Check out this list of common herbs that you might use to help you in an emergency. Knowing how to use herbs to heal your body will help you become more self-sufficient and help you save money.

Before You Use Herbs
While herbs are natural, it does not mean they can be taken without caution. Medicinal Herbs can be very powerful and the compounds in them can interact with other drugs, medicines or herbs you may be taking so investigate before you start taking something new.

As with anything, it is recommended to consult your physician before taking any medications, supplements or before making any significant changes to your dietary habits including the use of medicinal herbs.  Side effects can occur with any of these herbs, the most common of which may be an allergic reaction. Again, consult a physician about us­ing these herbs and proper dosing.

Children, women who are pregnant or hope to be pregnant, and those with compromised immunity should take caution before using these herbs.  Prolonged use may lead to lower effectiveness.

Borage
Borage is one of the few plants with a true blue flower which is also edible. Borage leaves and flowers can be eaten fresh or dried. The leaves eaten fresh have a taste similar to cucumber and the flower a sweet taste. Natural herbalist use Borage to regulate the metabolism and hormone system, some claiming it helps with PMS and hot flashes.^[1] It is also used as an anti-inflam­matory as Borage is the highest known natural producer of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and is medically accepted as “possibly effective” for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, lung function in ill patients and growth and devel­opment of premature babies.^[2] Borage should not be taken if you have liver disease.Borage is typically made into tea or eaten fresh on salads.Plant borage in healthy, well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade expo­sure. Plant after the danger of frost has passed and plant in tight clusters so plants support each other as they grow (8 inches apart).

Calendula
Calendula is also called a pot marigold but, as a member of the daisy fam­ily, looks more like a daisy. The pedals of the calendula flower are edible and thought to work as an anti-viral and anti-inflammatory.^[3] It has also been used to treat acne, constipation and abdominal cramps. Calendula has also been used topically and reported to help reduce swelling and bleeding including hemorrhoids and to help wounds heal faster.^[4] Dried Calendula is found in many ointments. Calendula may cause drowsiness so take caution.Typically fresh flower pedals are added to salads, or eaten directly. Dried pedals are sometimes used to replace saffron. It is also applied directly to the skin.Plant in healthy, well-drained soil with full sun. Plant after the danger of frost has passed about 1/4 inch deep. Plant about 16 inches apart and dead head flowers to keep the plant blooming. If the heat of summer begins to make plant appear sick, cut back heavily and keep watered. Plant will bloom again as weather cools.Discuss with a doctor before taking and to establish dosage. University of Maryland recommends same and offers that historic Adult dosages have been:

• Infusion: 1 tsp (5 – 10 g) dried florets in 8 oz (250 mL) water; steep 10 – 15 minutes; drink 2 – 3 cups per day
• Fluid extract (1:1 in 40% alcohol): 0.5 – 1.0 mL 3 times per day
• Tincture (1:5 in 90% alcohol): 5 – 10 drops (1 – 2 mL) 3 times per day
• Ointment: 2 – 5% calendula; apply 3 – 4 times per day as needed

Cayenne
Cayenne hot peppers have been used as both a food and a medicine by Native Americans for thousands of years. Cayenne peppers can be eaten fresh when they are red or green, used in cooking, dried and ground into pepper flakes, or pulped-dried and then ground into a fine powder.The main active ingredient in Cayenne is Capsaicin which has been used to treat digestive problems, help with pain relief and help with circulatory prob­lems. Capsaicin cream is used to treat arthritis, muscle pain and shingles. In addition, capsaicin is the key ingredient in personal defense sprays.^[5]Start pepper plants indoors 7 weeks before the projected last frost date for your area and transplant when the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed in late spring. Peppers love warm soil, sunny locations and well-drained soil.Discuss with a doctor before taking and to establish dosage. University of Maryland recommends same and offers that historic Adult dosages have been:

• For shingles, psoriasis, arthritis, or muscle pain: Capsaicin cream (0.025 – 0.075% capsaicin) may be applied directly to the affected area up to 4 times a day. Pain may slightly increase at first, but then may get better over the next few days. Capsaicin should be applied regularly several times a day. It usually takes 3 – 7 days before you notice substantial pain relief.

NOTE: Be sure to completely wash your hands with soap and water after handling, water alone won’t remove capsaicin. If you are sensitive or want to ensure you wash as much capsaicin as possible try using a diluted vinegar solution.

Dandelion
Dandelion’s are a common site and frustration in our lawns, however, dande­lions are entirely edible and are a good source of vitamins A, B complex, C and D^[6]. They are also high in iron, potassium, and zinc. The most common historic uses for dandelion are as a diuretic, to treat mild digestive problems or increase appetite, and to treat liver issues. Some people have had allergic reactions to the pollen so try in small doses if you are unsure.Dandelion can be eaten fresh in salads, blanched (which will also remove some of the bitterness) or dried. The flowers are used by many to make dandelion wine. Young leaves are much less bitter than fully mature leaves. The root can be dry roasted over high heat until the color of a good roasted coffee bean and ground up as a caffeine free coffee or tea substitute. When harvesting roots, second year crops, harvested in the autumn will give you the best yield and best flavor.As you probably know, dandelions will grow well just about anywhere and if care is not taken will quickly spread. If you are cropping dandelions they will be best if planted in light soil to give the root good development. Con­stant care should be taken to collect seed heads before they spread.Discuss with a doctor before taking and to establish dosage. University of Maryland recommends same and offers that historic Adult dosages have been:

• Dried leaf infusion: 1 – 2 teaspoonfuls, 3 times daily. Pour hot water onto dried leaf and steep for 5 – 10 minutes. Drink as directed.
• Dried root decoction: 1/2 – 2 teaspoonfuls, 3 times daily. Place root into boiling water for 5 – 10 minutes. Strain and drink as directed.
• Leaf tincture (1:5) in 30% alcohol: 30 – 60 drops, 3 times daily
• Standardized powdered extract (4:1) leaf: 500 mg, 1 – 3 times daily
• Standardized powdered extract (4:1) root: 500 mg, 1 – 3 times daily
• Root tincture (1:2) fresh root in 45% alcohol: 30 – 60 drops, 3 times daily

Echinacea
Echinacea, also a member of the daisy family, is one of the most common herbs used today and has of recent been heavily promoted as a treatment to prevent or shorten the development of the common cold. Historically, Echi­nacea was used by the Native Americans to treat the symptoms of the cold such as headaches, sore throats, cough, and fever.Echinacea can be eaten fresh, dried, made into teas, juiced, or applied exter­nally.Direct sow in spring under ¼ inch of well-drained soil in a sunny location. Echinacea is drought tolerant and can do well without lots of water once established.Discuss with a doctor before taking and to establish dosage. Suggested Adult dosages for general immune system stimulation, during colds, flu, upper respiratory tract infections, or bladder infections, choose from the following forms and take 3 times a day until you feel better, but not for more than 7 – 10 days:• 1 – 2 grams dried root or herb, as tea

• 2 – 3 mL of standardized tincture extract
• 6 – 9 mL of expressed juice (succus)
• 300 mg of standardized, powdered extract containing 4% phenolics
• Tincture (1:5): 1 – 3 mL (20 – 90 drops)
• Stabilized fresh extract: 0.75 mL (15 – 23 drops)
• Apply to wounds as needed

Fenugreek
Fenugreek is a very versatile and useful plant. The dried or fresh leaves are used as an herb, the seeds are a popular spice and the fresh leaves are edible. There is reasonable scientific support for the use of fenugreek in the treat­ment of diabetes.^[7] It is also widely used to promote increased milk produc­tion in lactating women and increased libido in men.Leaves can be eaten fresh, sautéed, or dried. Seeds often roasted to open up their flavors and release some bitterness and are used whole or in a powdered form.Direct sow Fenugreek in a sunny location and thin as necessary with final planting about 4 inches apart. Seeds form in long brown pods that develop near the summer. Fenugreek is slow to grow in cold wet climates.

Hyssop
Hyssop has a very strong flavor which is similar to mint. Hyssop leaves are used in salads and soups. Hyssop also is used when cooking meat.Hyssop has traditionally been used to treat pulmonary conditions^[8] and is most used as an expectorant. Hyssop tea is the usual means of taking in the herb with people either steeping the green tops or steeping the dried Hyssop flowers in hot water.Direct sow Hyssop seeds in the spring in a sunny well drained location about 12 inches apart. Hyssop is fairly hardy once established and can continue to be propagated from cuttings. Like other woody herbs Hyssop will need to be replaced every few years otherwise becomes too woody. Hyssop also will benefit from being cut back from time to time.

Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has a strong lemony sent and flavor. It is frequently used to treat cold sores, promote relaxation and as a mosquito repellent. Research is also being conducted to look at lemon balm as possibly effective for Alzheimer’s. ^[9]Direct sow in spring or early fall in a cool and partially shaded location. Cover with 1/8th inch of soil. Trimming will result in additional branching producing a bushier more robust plant. As a member of the mint family, Lemon balm with self-propagate through its root structure and can quickly spread.Discuss with a doctor before taking and to establish dosage. University of Maryland recommends same and offers that historic Adult dosages have been:• Capsules: Take 300 – 500 mg dried lemon balm, 3 times daily or as needed.

• Tea: 1.5 – 4.5 grams (1/4 – 1 teaspoonful) of dried lemon balm herb in hot water. Steep and drink up to 4 times daily.
• Tincture: 60 drops of lemon balm daily
• Topical: Apply topical cream to affected area, 3 times daily or as direct­ed.
• For cold sores or herpes sores, steep 2 – 4 teaspoonfuls of crushed leaf in 1 cup boiling water for 10 – 15 minutes. Cool. Apply tea with cotton balls to the sores throughout the day.

Lovage
Lovage is an extremely versatile plant. Its leaves are a very flavorful herb reminiscent of parsley and celery. The roots are a delicious vegetable that tastes great braised. The stalks can be eaten similar to celery. The seeds are a great spice that add tremendous flavor to bread. Because it is so similar in flavor to parsley and celery it is a common replacement for them in recipes.As a medicinal, lovage has been historically used to treat sore throats, treat indigestion and help rheumatism.^[10] It has even been used in shoes as a deodorant  Of course, it is also thought to be an aphrodisiac. Like many herbs lovage leaves will become a bit bitterer after the plant flowers so leaves are best harvested before flowering. Lovage is best direct sowed in the fall is a sunny to partially shady location. Lovage can become quite large so give it about 2 to 3 feet.

Yarrow
Yarrow is a well-known herb which has been which has been used for hun­dreds of years. One primary benefit of yarrow is that it is easy to grow and tolerates drought and less fertile soil better than many other plants. As an added benefit yarrow attracts many beneficial garden insects.Yarrow is most typically used for its ability to slow bleeding and is used on cuts and abrasions or bloody noses.^[11] The leaves can also be dried or cooked in a soup.Sow yarrow seed under no more than 1/8th an inch of soil in the late spring. Yarrow prefers a sunny location and can tolerate dryer conditions than most other plants.Discuss with a doctor before taking and to establish dosage. Suggested dos­ages have been:• Capsules: Take 300 – 500 mg dried lemon balm, 3 times daily or as needed.

• Tea: 1.5 – 4.5 grams (1/4 – 1 teaspoonful) of dried yarrow flower in hot water. Steep and drink up to 4 times daily.
• Tincture: ¼ to ½ teaspoon – 2 to 5 times a day
• Topical: directly chew root for temporary relief from tooth ache. For wounds, apply a clean cloth soaked in a strong yarrow infusion directly to wound.

Your Recommendations
So, what herbs do you find most helpful? Comment below to share your knowledge and help others along their way.

^[1] http://thehealthblog.us/2013/01/borage-flowers-that-help-heal.html
^[2] US National Library of Medicine National Institute of Health: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11710548
^[3] US National Library of Medicine National Institute of Health: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19374166
^[4] Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/disclaimer?msk_disclaimer_herb=1&destination=%2Fcancer-care%2Fherb%2Fcalendula
^[5] University of Maryland Medical Center: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/cayenne–000230.htm
^[6] http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2441/2
^[7] US National Library of Medicine National Institute of Health http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19857068
^[8] US Pharmacist Publication http://legacy.uspharmacist.com/oldformat.asp?url=newlook/files/Comp/hyssop.htm&pub_id=8&article_id=741
^[9] http://alzheimers.about.com/od/alternativetreatments/a/Lemon_balm.htm
^[10] Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/crop843?opendocument
^[11] University of Maryland. School of Medicine. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/yarrow-000282.htm

Mother Nature has been rotating through the composting process of decomposing organic material into rich soil that will foster new life for longer than any of us can imagine.

You can use that same process at an accelerated pace to save you money and help you become self-reliant with a nutrient-rich garden.

Composting significantly reduces pest problems while creating healthy plants that use less pesticides. You’re adding organic material to your soil to help improve moisture retention and composting saves money while providing a healthy balance to your soil.

How to Compost
While composting is a natural process, there are ways that you can make it go faster. Here’s how:

1. Pick a dry, shady spot to locate your compost pile. You’ll want to make sure that there is a water source nearby and that the pile is close to the area you plan to use the compost.

2. Collect organic material like grass clippings, old fruit peels, etc. (we’ll talk more about this below) that you can use in your compost pile. You’ll want to chop these items up as much as possible – the smaller the pieces, the faster they will break down.

3. Lay down a layer of 6-inches of paper shreds or dried leaves. These are rich in carbon and should work well as a first layer. Wet down the material until they are moist – but not too wet. They should have the moisture of a wrung out sponge.

4. Next, you’ll add a 3-inch layer of nitrogen-rich materials like kitchen scraps, grass clippings, etc.

NOTE: The optimal compost heap should maintain about a 3-to-1 ratio of organic carbon material to nitrogen material. Your pile will also need to be at least 1 yard wide to maintain the heat it needs.

5. Add another 3-inch layer of leaves or paper strips followed by a 3-inch layer of nitrogen-rich material. Repeat this a few times until your pile is sufficiently tall.

6. Once you’ve built up your pile, sprinkle a handful of healthy garden soil or a previous compost pile on top. This will boost the level of microbes in the soil that are needed to break down the materials.

7. Turn your compost pile with a pitchfork every few week or two. Mix the layers making sure that moisture is evenly distributed and the outer layers are moved to the inside to redistribute heat.

8. After a few weeks you may notice that the pile stinks or might even be steaming – this is fine – it’s working.

What Can I Use to Compost?
Composting focuses on locating good materials that are rich in nitrogen or rich in carbon. Here are a few ideas:

It’s not recommended that you use meat, bones or dairy products to create compost. The grease and oils break down slower and draw animals to the compost pile.

Do You Compost?
Have you tried composting? Did it work well for you? What advice do you have for the new gardeners out there? Comment below to let us know!

Knowing how to tie some basic knots could be the difference between life and death in an emergency.

Below, we’ve listed some basic knots that you might consider learning in order to help yourself in an emergency or any number of other situations. They include the bowline, Prusick loop, double fisherman’s knot, square knot and figure eight knot.

Bowline
The bowline is great for emergency situations because it doesn’t slip or jam. It’s very easy to make and can be used in a lot of situations to pull without tightening.

Video Instruction Here
1. Take the right end of the rope and curl it over itself to make a small loop.
2. Insert the right end of the rope through the initial loop making a larger loop.
3. Continue around the back of the rope just before the first small loop.
4. After going around the back of the rope, pass the end into the small loop again.
5. Tighten the knot.

Prusick Loop
The Prusick loop (or knot) has been used for decades in mountaineering as a knot that won’t slip when you need it to stay and will move when you need to shift. The knot is based on friction and relies on the presence of a load or pressure to stay. So, if you tug on the line, it will stay put, if you loosen it, it will release and move.

Video Instruction Here
1. You will need to lengths of rope, one will be the anchor while the other will be used for the knot/loop
2. Lay the anchor rope on a flat surface.
3. Tie both ends of the other rope to make a loop.
4. Place the loop underneath the anchor line
5. Pull one side of the loop over and underneath the anchor line – do this three times
6. On the last turn, tighten the knot around and through the other end of the loop.

Double Fisherman’s Knot
This knot is great for joining different lines together to make one longer rope. It can be great for extended two smaller ropes or simply securing one rope to another.

Video Instruction Here
1. Place two ropes parallel on another.
2. Using one rope, make a loop by passing it over the second rope then under both ropes. Do this twice ( that’s why it’s called double fisherman’s knot)
3. From underneath the two ropes insert it into the loop you just made.
4. Do the same with the other rope
5. Pull both ropes to tighten the knot.

Square Knot
This is one of the most widely used knots. It was originally used to secure sails to ships but is now used to to secure two ropes together. If you’re lifting heavy items, this might not be the best knot to use because it can come apart rather easily. But if you need a simple knot to tie two ends together without worrying about them staying tight, this is a great knot.

1. Take one end in each hand.
2. Cross over the right end and wrap it around the left end. Now the right end is not on the left side.
3 Take the end on the left side and cross it over and wrap it around the end on the right.
4. Tighten the knot.

Figure Eight Knot
A figure eight knot is a great way to add a loop to the end of any rope. It is probably one of the best knots for binding under strain.

Video Instructions Here
1, Form a single figure eight in the end of the rope and feed the tail through your harness. Some harnesses require that you feed the rope through certain straps.
2. Rethread the figure eight, following the same path as the first. Pull the knot tight. Make sure you have enough tail, as the knot will slip a bit when loaded. Check the knot by counting “two”, “two” & “two”, for the three visible doubled strands. Ensure they each are lying flat and not crossing over themselves.


So what knots would you recommend?
Comment below to tell us what knots you find the most handy. Which ones have you learned and used? Comment below to tell us more!

Hydrogen peroxide can be a great tool in your emergency pack. It has hundreds of uses that can help you clean and disinfect in any situation.

Hydrogen peroxide has the chemical property

H₂O₂

It is a strong oxidizer and is often used as a bleach or cleaning agent. You can also use it to whiten clothes, fight infections, make your own toothpaste, etc. Check out these ideas below on how you can use hydrogen peroxide for multiple purposes around your home.

Purchasing Hydrogen Peroxide
When you’re purchasing hydrogen peroxide, you have a few different options. Hydrogen peroxide comes in a few different grades, the most common being 3.5% Pharmaceutical grade. This is sold in your local drug stores and supermarket and should not be ingested.

6% grade is used in beauty shops to color hair and shouldn’t be used internally. Higher grades like 30-32% are used to clean electronics and cars.

35% grade is the only grade that is approved for internal use. It’s used in the production of eggs, cheese and other food items.

The only other grade higher than 35% is 90% and is used as an oxygen source for rocket fuel! Ya, don’t eat that either.

Remember that using items over again and finding multiple uses is a great way to save money and help you become more self-reliant and self-sufficient.

Whiten Clothes
Add a cup of peroxide to your laundry as they wash. It gets rid of stains in clothes and carpet. Just pour directly onto the spot, let it sit for a few minutes and then rub and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.

Foot Fungus
Have a nasty itch on your feet? Hydrogen peroxide can help. Simply spray a 50/50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water on them every night and let dry.

Infected Cuts
Soak the cut in a mixture of 3-5% hydrogen peroxide for five to 10 minutes several times a day. People have reported that soaking their wounds in hydrogen peroxide has healed gangrene, boils, and skin infections.

Sinus Infections
A tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide added to 1 cup of water (non-chlorinated) can be used as a nasal spray. For more severe sinus infections, increase the amount of hydrogen peroxide in the mixture.

Toothpaste & Mouth Care
Hydrogen peroxide is a great tool for mouth care. You can use it to create mouthwashes, relieve toothaches and make your own toothpaste. Start with a bit of baking soda and slowly add hydrogen peroxide until it creates a paste. Hydrogen peroxide is antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal, so it makes a very efficient toothpaste. However, some people have reported that the hydrogen peroxide reacts with amalgam fillings in their mouth, so be careful.

Food Cleaner
Some people add ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide to a full sink of cold water and allow their vegetables to soak and clean before preparation. You can also rinse your meat off before cooking.

Clean Mold
Use a hydrogen peroxide spray to wipe up mold in the fridge or in your house so that it doesn’t spread. Since hydrogen peroxide is anti-fungal and antibacterial, it should stop the mold in its tracks!

Your Ideas?
What have you used hydrogen peroxide for? Comment below and tell us what you’ve used the miracle liquid for.

We all know about April Fool’s Day, but where did it come from? As you might expect from the holiday – no one’s really sure!

Ancient cultures would celebrate New Year’s Day, according to their calendar, on April 1st each year. It was close to the vernal equinox and during the Middle Ages, much of Europe would celebrate the Feast of Annunciation on March 25th, in honor of the new year that was approaching. In fact, France had a weeklong celebration in honor of the feast and ended on April 1st.

However, something interesting happened in 1582 when Pope Gregory XII ordered a new calendar to replace the old Julian Calendar. His new Gregorian Calendar moved the beginning of the year to January 1st instead of April 1st.

Youth tie a kite to an old man’s wig in this 1770s illustration.

That same year, France adopted the new calendar and shifted their New Year’s Day.

According to popular history, many people either refused to recognize the calendar change or had not heard about the change and continued to celebrate New Years on April 1st. Others began to poke fun at these traditionalists by sending them on “fool’s errands” or trying to trick them into believing something else. It’s believed that the practice of pranks of April 1st began there and spread across Europe.

The story does leave some things unanswered though. For example, England didn’t officially adopt the Gregorian Calendar until 1752 but the April Fool’s Day traditions were already established by that point. The second point that casts doubt on this story is the fact that there is no material evidence for the story. The story wasn’t written down or recorded but instead passed down from generation to generation.

So, as you might expect for a holiday about pranking, the details are a little slippery.

Ideas for April Fool’s Day
Have a family member who loves food storage? Get them our new Saratoga Farms Dehydrated Water! By just adding a little water, it’s instantly returned to it’s original state. With an infinite shelf life and a refreshing taste, you and your family will love the Dehydrated Water.

Print out this word search puzzle and give it to your victims. It looks like a normal puzzle but none of the words are actually in the puzzle. Wait until the right moment and point out the words “April” and “Fools” on the search.

Find a small picture that you can hang. Take a nail and cut it in half with wire cutters. Now glue the picture to the nail and glue a magnet on the back. Stick the magnet to the refrigerator then start making a loud banging sound in the kitchen. When they come in, they’ll see you finishing up nailing a picture on the fridge.

Have any ideas? Comment below and help us come up with some good ideas.

Homesteading has a rich history in the United States. The idea was used to populate and explore the wild frontiers of our country. However, in recent decades, the idea has transformed into something new.

Below, we explain a little about what homesteading is and how you can do it. While you might not be able to apply all aspects of homesteading, there are many activities involved in it that will make you and our family more self-reliant and self-sufficient.

What is Homesteading
Homesteading is a lifestyle of self-sufficiency that typically involves subsistence agriculture, food preservation, creating your own clothing and textiles, and maintaining your own house and property.

In history, philosophers like John Locke, wrote about a homesteading principle. The idea was that someone could gain ownership of something solely on the principle that they had labored to make it:

“Though the earth and all inferior creatures be common to all men, yet every man has a property in his own person. This[,] nobody has any right to but himself. The labour of his body and the work of his hands, we may say, are properly his. Whatsoever, then, he removes out of the state that Nature hath provided and left it in, he hath mixed his labour with it, and joined to it something that is his own, and thereby makes it his property.” - John Locke

In other words, if a farmer used unowned land to plant crops, he owned that food and could sell it as such. Other philosophers have also debated that the farmer would henceforth own that property. This idea crystallized into many capitalist ideas that our society has been based on.

You may remember reading about the Homestead Act (1862) in history class. The government used the idea to populate new areas of the U.S. The idea that a person could own their own property and become independent from any entity or person struck a chord with Americans. Thousands of Americans pushed forward to settle the frontier and make it habitable for others that would follow.

The back-to-the-earth ideals made a comeback in the 1960s and applied these self-sufficient principles to an urban and suburban setting, also known as urban homesteading. Instead of moving to an isolated location, urban homesteaders focus on self-sufficiency while still maintaining their relationship with the community.

In recent years, the idea has resonated with people who worry about their dependence on the economy. Instead of putting their trust in a government or entity, they have moved to a more independent economic situation.

How to Begin Homesteading
Gather Supplies. Homesteading is about being self-sufficient, that means being able to have all the tools, home-space, clothes or materials that you’ll need. Don’t think that you have to have everything in storage that you’ll ever need for the rest of your life. You’ll be able to use items to barter or trade. Many items will be self-sustaining and be able to be sold later on down the road.

Plant a Garden. The garden is a perfect example of an income. With a permaculture attitude towards gardening, you’ll be able to plant once and sow for years to come. Be sure to have land and space to store your food once you’ve harvested.

Have Food Storage. The trick to homesteading is to be able to have food when you need it. Growing your own food in the garden That could mean canning your foods out of the garden or using freeze-dried foods that last for 30 years.

Reuse Items. One of the easiest ways to be self-sufficient is to save money by reusing items. It could be as simple as making old clothes into blankets or using baking soda for other uses besides cooking. Most of the time, it comes down to creativity and how you imagine things being used. Feel free to peruse our DIY section of the blog to see if you can find any ideas that will save you money.

Raise Animals. One popular activity in homesteading is to raise animals that will provide you and your family with food. Chickens and rabbits are a common animal that are easy to care for and provide eggs and meat to your family. Many animals, like llamas or sheep, can also be used for their wool and be used to make different items. Others even produce herds of livestock enough to sustain their family.

Alternative Energy. Homesteaders often refer to using alternative energy as “living off the grid.” It’s a great way to be self-reliant and not have to depend on power companies or others for electricity to your home. You can purchase solar panels and generators to power your home. That way, if there’s ever a power outage in your town, you’re already set.

Where to Homestead
Previously, homesteading was all about the location – far and away. However, homesteading has morphed into the idea of being self-reliant and sustainable. Therefore, you can really be a homesteader anywhere that you want.

You probably will need a larger supply of land if you plan on raising animals and gardening. But to be able to reuse items or live off the grid, you just need the right supplies.

While the government no longer sponsors any homesteading initiatives, you always have the option to purchase that is far and away. Many people are setting up makeshift homesteads in lightly-populated areas of Alaska and the Midwest.

To Be Continued…
We’ll continue to post articles on how to improve your homesteading efforts, including how to use alternative energy, multiple uses of items, food storage, raising animals and more!

What would you like to hear about first? Comment below and let us know your thoughts. We’d also love to hear your stories about homesteading? Are you a homesteader? What difficulties have you found? Comment below!

In the late 1990s, the military had a wide variety of ready-to-eat meals (MREs) at their disposal. They had created a line of foods that were served up in pouches and ready to eat anywhere in the battlefield. They could be dropped from 100 feet and be ripped open immediately for consumption.

However, there were a few meals that the military men and women still wanted.

- Military Meals Throughout History - 

“All of our meals are warfighter tested and warfighter approved,” said Gerry Darsch, Director of the Department of Defenses’ Combat Feeding Program, in an exclusive interview with The Ready Nation. “In the early ‘90s, we started getting feedback that they wanted a pocket sandwich in the battlefield. Something like you’d find in the freezer section, like Hot Pockets™.”

Up to this point, the military had created many MREs including spaghetti, lasagna, vegetable dishes and more. However, many food items couldn’t be packaged into a meal that would remain stable in a pouch for 5 years.

“We couldn’t package things like eggs, seafoods or sandwiches,” Darsch said. “They were just too delicate and wouldn’t be able to withstand the packaging process. So, we put our best and brightest into developing a system that allows us to create shelf-stable foods like these that would last for years and still provide the nutrients that we needed.”

There were a few hurdles to overcome in those early days. It wasn’t as easy as preparing a bowl of food and throwing it into a pouch. Since the MREs had to be shelf-stable for 5 years, there was a lot of testing and science that went into the process.

“There are many aspects that have to be controlled while you create an MRE,” Darsch said. “You have to control the oxygen content, making sure that bacteria can’t grow in there. However, sometimes you have to make sure that natural bacteria, found in the atmosphere, are available for the food.

“The pH balance also needs to be closely monitored and control things like the water activity and micro-biological activity. You also want to pack as many calories into as small a space as possible so they have enough energy to keep them running.”

- Make Your Own MRE Style Packages - 

Darsch shared that in those early days, certain funding was slim and the department was forced to visit local hospitals to place pouched foods in MRI machines. They would closely monitor how bacteria or water movement was affecting the food on the inside of the pouch. Now, the department has its own machine and doesn’t have to borrow from local hospitals.

Through MRI scanning, packaging testing, nutritional analysis and more, Darsch’s department was able to crack the code and figure out how to combine all of those required aspects. The department began using methods like pasteurized sterilization, microwave-assisted thermo stabilization, pressure-assisted thermal stabilization and more. All of these methods combined to create a more effective packaging process.

“The new method is incredible,” Darsch said. “The difference between the old retort method and the microwave assisted method is eye-opening. And the best part is that the nutrient retention is better.”

The new process allows for better nutrient retention, a more familiar taste and a wider selection of foods.

“We were first to revolutionize microwave-assisted sterilization and move past simple retort packaging. But once you can break that code, there is a whole family of foods that you can work with and create shelf-stable meals that will last a long time.”

Figuring out the process did take a while though. What started in the early ‘90s wasn’t actually used in the battlefield until 2008 in Afghanistan.

So, what’s next for the Combat Feeding Program?

- Alternative Uses for MRE Heaters - 

“We have some very exciting problems to figure out,” Darsch said. “We’re currently looking into a few projects including machines that would use all the waste from the food (packaging and dropping equipment) to power itself … We’re also looking at nutraceuticals that would allow our military to increase muscle usability, have extended durability and higher physical effects.”

All-in-all, the current position and future of the Combat Feeding Program is exciting and an important aspect of our military efficiency.