preparedness

10 Terrifying Truths About Long Term Blackouts

One of the most common themes when it comes to prepping and disaster preparedness is the power grid going down, causing a regional or even a nationwide blackout that would result in a catastrophe that very few people have ever experienced in their lives.

A long-term blackout would probably be far worse than you realize. Losing your power for a few days or weeks is one thing, but losing power for months over a large portion of the country is a whole other thing. Without the luxury of public services and other things that we are accustomed to, things would get really bad, to say the least.

But what would really happen as the result of a long-term blackout like that? Well, while the government would attempt to get things back up and running again, most people would be forced into a true battle for survival.

That’s why it’s important for you to know the terrifying truths and realities of a long term blackout. With that said, here are 10 of them…

Truth #1 – Sewage Will Back Up

The first truth about long-term blackouts is something most people don’t think about: sewage. When the water stops running, not only will you be unable to access water from your sinks and bathtubs, you also won’t be able to flush your toilets.

If this becomes a widespread issue–which it quickly will–the spread of bacteria is going to become a major cause of concern. Disposing of human waste is an issue that very few preppers give much consideration to, but they need to.

You basically only have two options for dealing with sewage in a long term blackout: burning it or burying it. Regardless of which option you choose, you will need to make sure the waste is disposed of a minimum of two hundred and fifty feet away from your homes and any source of water.

A good policy to follow will be to dispose of the waste in black garbage bags, seal the bags shut, and then dig them a minimum of four feet underground and at two hundred and fifty feet away from your home and any source of water.

Truth #2 – Trash Will Be Everywhere

The next major reality of a long-term blackout that you will need to contend with is the fact that trash will be everywhere. And by everywhere, I mean everywhere.

Not just trash, but sanitation, in general, is going to go downhill. Since there will be very few if any public services, the trash that people put on the street simply won’t get picked up.

And that’s not to mention your own trash, which is going to pile up very quickly since you won’t have anywhere to put it. In just a few weeks, things are going to get out of hand. Piles of garbage will be breeding grounds for pests and disease.

Garbage Bags On City Street

The best way to deal with this will be to work with your neighbors. Come up with a plan for how you can dispose of trash, whether that means burning it, burying it, composting it, relocating it, etc. Make sure it doesn’t contaminate any major source of water.

You’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of hygiene items so you can keep yourself and your home clean and prevent the spread of germs.

Truth #3 – No More Online Banking

Your credit cards and debit cards are going to be useless during a long term blackout. Therefore, you’re going to be reduced to using cash, which is why you would be wise to have an emergency fund of cash at your home. At least $1,000 in a variety of $20, $10, $5, and $1 bills would be smart.

But keep in mind that cash could potentially become useless too. It’s just paper. The only reason it has value is because people believe it has value, but that could change. If it comes down to surviving the next day, what good will a few wads of paper do you other than building a fire or wiping your butt?

The point is that bartering could take the place of cash in a long enough blackout. For this reason, consider building up a stash of barter items. You may be able to trade them for food or supplies.

Truth #4 – No Gasoline

A lack of gasoline is also going to be a major hindrance during a long term blackout because the gas pumps simply aren’t going to work. That’s exactly why you’re going to have to stockpile plenty of gasoline and make it last as long as possible.

In fact, gasoline is going to become one of the most precious commodities. And with the lack of gasoline, do you want to know what that means? That’s right: no traveling.

The only gasoline you will have available for bugging out or anything like that will be the gasoline in your car or in any cans on your property. But since gasoline will be so restricted and precious, bugging out may not even be an option.

Truth #5 – Gun Confiscation Could Be A Possibility

Law enforcement confiscated firearms during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Depending on the circumstances of the long-term blackout that you find yourself in, this could be a reality that you face as well.

The simple fact of the matter is that the authorities will view civilians with guns as a threat, and therefore, they will seek to get rid of as many guns in civilian hands as possible. If martial law is ever declared by the government, which it very well could be in a long-term blackout, then the chances of gun confiscation will go up dramatically.

The solution here will be to find alternative weapons with which you can defend yourself against attack. Bows and arrows, crossbows, spears (lash knives to the end of poles), knives, machetes, hatchets, hammers, and other weapons will be your best bet.

Another option is to hide your firearms. There are all sorts of hiding spots in every home.

Truth #6 – No Internet Or Cell Service

You’ll only be able to run your phones, tablets, and laptops for as long as the batteries last and as long as your generators last (which in turn will only last for as long as your gasoline does).

That’s also not to mention that Wi-fi and cell service will be gone for as long as there is a blackout as well. Simply put, you’re going to need to get used to a world without internet, e-mailing, texting, calling, social media, and so on.

Instead, you’re going to need to rely on alternative communication sources to stay in touch with others and the outside world, such as CB Radios and HAM Radios.

Pin It — Picture Of The Venezuela Blackout

Truth #7 – No More Electricity

Have you ever wondered what life would be like if there was literally no electricity? We’ve already covered a few things that will happen, but take a look at the bigger picture.

A lack of electricity also means a lack of light indoors, a lack of power outlets, a lack of heat, and so on. It basically means that, in many ways, life will literally return almost to the way it was during the 1800s.

You’re going to have to resort to coming up with your own alternate heat sources, your own light sources, and so on. Stock up on warm clothes, candles, stoves, and wood to serve as fuel for the fire.

Here are some other ways to stay warm in the winter. And don’t forget to keep cool in the summer.

Truth #8 – No More Food

This one should be obvious already, but it bears repeating: the only food and water that you are going to have access to are what you have stored and what you can barter. And if you live in an urbanized area, then hunting and foraging probably aren’t going to be options for you either.

Once the running water quits and the grocery stores are all emptied out (and remember, there aren’t going to be any more supply trucks), then you will be wishing you had stockpiled all of the food you could. Here is our beginner’s guide to emergency food storage.

Also, keep in mind that you can still create your own self-sustaining food sources (crops in a garden, chickens, rabbits, etc.). But if these are not realistic options for you either based on your circumstances, then your only other choices will literally be scavenging and bartering.

Truth #9 – No More Water

The lack of running water is also going to be a significant issue, and perhaps even worse than the lack of food. Scavenging water isn’t all too difficult in urbanized areas, as you can find it at public parks, fountains, lakes, and so on, but the main problem will be finding clean water that is safe to drink.

You can also take your preparations a massive step further by investing in building a water well and a rain catchment system. If that isn’t possible for you based on your particular circumstances, then instead you’re going to need to simply stock up on as much of it as you can in the time being.

Here are the basics of water storage and water purification.

Truth #10 – People Will Go Crazy

Last but certainly not least, people are simply going to go crazy during a long-term blackout. The simple fact of the matter is that the vast majority of people are not prepared for such a scenario. And that’s why they’re going to turn into savages willing to kill for food, water, medicine, and any other essentials they need.

Rioters In Fire

What you need to do is be on your guard and be prepared to defend yourself and your home if need be. Be prepared to defend yourself wherever you go by always having a handgun concealed on your person, and have a shotgun or rifle close by.

If guns are indeed confiscated, then you’re going to need to carry alternate weapons on you and become trained in their use. Pepper spray, tasers, stun guns, knives, hatchets, hammers, baseball bats, umbrellas, and so on can all be converted into incredibly effective self-defense weapons, just to name a few.

And to keep looters out of your home, you’ll want to turn it into a fortress. SHTF home security is paramount. If you live in an apartment, here’s how to defend it.

And finally, trust no one! Do not inform everybody and anybody in your daily life that you are a prepper and keep your stockpiles a secret. Otherwise, you’ll be posting a major target on your back. Here’s what to do if people find out you’re a prepper.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a long-term blackout is more than just a long time without power. It will more closely resemble a true grid-down scenario like the ones that are frequently discussed in prepper circles. One that, if it lasts long enough, could kill most of the population.

The purpose of this article has been to remind you of the terrifying reality of a long-term blackout and motivate you to prepare for one. Hopefully, it will never actually happen. And if it does, then hopefully you’ll have prepared.

preparedness

4 No Cook Meals For Surviving The Pandemic And Food Supply Shortages

When it comes to your food supply, you just can’t risk not having enough. These no cook meals will be a great addition to your food supply planning. Check out the recipes below!

No Cook Meals to Help You Through the Pandemic

As of the writing of this article, there are 20 meat processing plants that have been shut down due to COVID-19 infections. We have been worrying about these types of effects on our food supply for months now, and this is the first real sign of how infections can affect the food supply.

When you walk into a supermarket, you might not see all the choices you had in the past. An empty meat case is a humbling thing for your eyes to fall upon. It’s the shocking realization that the seemingly infinite supply of chickens, pigs, and cows that are butchered for us has begun to run dry!

To deal with this issue, we are going to present four no cook meals that will help you create dinners at home that will feed your family without worrying so much about what’s available, or unavailable, in the meat case.

1. Smashed White Bean, Avocado and Salted Pork Sandwiches

Smashed White Bean, Avocado and Salted Pork Sandwiches | No Cook Meals for Surviving the Pandemic and Food Supply Shortages

As preppers we get beans. There are a bunch of ways to use beans and this a great example of how you can pack a sandwich with great nutrition and protein.

Serving: Makes 4 sandwiches

Ingredients:

Can of White Beans
Olive Oil
1 Avocado
8 Slices of Whole Grain Bread
8 Slices of Salted Pork (Prosciutto, Ham, Virginia Ham)

Instructions:

Begin by draining your beans in a colander then smashing them up in a bowl add a few glugs of olive oil, salt, pepper. This little mix is delicious. If you add some minced rosemary, you can even turn this into a delicious dip.
Pit your avocado and cut it in half and then quarters lengthwise. Leave the skin on.
Lay the bread out on a clean work surface for assembling the sandwiches.
Spread your mashed bean mix onto one side of the bread.
Peel your avocados and slice 1 quarter for each sandwich. Spread slices over the bean spread.
Add a few slices of your pork to over the top of the avocado.
You can finish this sandwich with some lettuces, fresh sprouts, or just eat it as is.

2. Delicious Crab Salad

Canned crab is a protein option that will likely be around through much of this meat crisis. It does have to be kept in refrigeration, but it’s delicious and this chipotle mayo salad is great in the spring and summer.

Ingredients:

1 Can of Crab Meat
1 Bunch of Asparagus
Chipotle Mayo
1 Bunch of Green Onions
1 Bunch of Cilantro

Instructions:

Drain your crab in a colander and set it in the sink.
Slice your asparagus into 1-inch pieces. Throw them into a bowl.
Thinly slice your onions and your cilantro and throw that into the bowl, as well.
Gently toss in the crab meat.
Squirt on enough Chipotle mayo to coat everything and toss gently not to break up the crab meat.
Chill in the fridge and serve.

3. Simple Greek Salad

Simple Greek Salad | No Cook Meals for Surviving the Pandemic and Food Supply Shortages

The combination of simple summer ingredients makes for an incredible quick salad that you could add other proteins, too, if you wanted. These could be canned meats.

Ingredients:

2 Large Tomatoes
1 Cucumber
1 Red Onion
¼ Cup of Feta Cheese
A Few Sprigs of Fresh Mint
½ Cup of Kalamata Olives
Balsamic Dressing

Instructions:

I like to cut the tomatoes in large chunks and have them kind of be the main course in this salad. Peel and slice your cucumber in half. Remove the seeds and either dice or slice in half-moons.
Peel and slice your red onion in half. Julienne your, or thinly slice, your half onion.
Add all these ingredients to a bowl. Finely slice your mint.
Add your olives, crumbled feta, and mint to the bowl and add enough dressing to coat everything.
Stir it up and allow this to chill for at least an hour for the flavors to really blend.

4. Mediterranean Tuna Lettuce Wraps

Mediterranean Tuna Lettuce Wraps | No Cook Meals for Surviving the Pandemic and Food Supply Shortages

Using some similar ingredients and adding a protein like tuna, you can create some delicious lettuce wraps. The key to a good lettuce wrap is to have most of the items around the same size. So, consider that when you are preparing this dish.

Ingredients:

Iceberg or Butter Lettuce
Canned Artichokes
Canned roasted Red peppers
Fresh Cucumber
Feta Cheese
Minced Olives ¼ Cup
2 Cans of Tuna
Green Onions
Basil

Instructions:

Start by peeling all the full leaves from your lettuce. Set them on a plate either cover them with a wet paper towel or put them back into the fridge.
Dice the peppers, artichokes, and cucumbers into cubes. Go no larger than ½ an inch.
Thinly slice your green onions and basil and add them to a bowl with your diced vegetables. Add your loves to this bowl and mix them thoroughly.
Crumble your feta cheese over the mixture.
Drain your tuna thoroughly and then add that to the bowl, as well.
Gently toss this mixture. Try not to break up the tuna and the cheese too much but incorporate it thoroughly.
If you want, you can add some olive oil to the mix or a few glugs of balsamic vinegar. It’s also delicious just how it is.
Scoop a few tablespoons into a lettuce leaf, wrap it up and eat up!

These no cook meals should help lessen the stress you feel when thinking of what to feed your family. If you don’t have the specific ingredients, use your creativity, and use what you have. You might discover a new recipe while you’re at it!

What’s your favorite no cook meal recipe? Please share it with us in the comments section!

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This Article Was First Found at survivallife.com Read The Original Article Here

preparedness

Billionaire Whistle Blower: Wuhan Coronavirus Death Toll Is Over 50,000

Exiled Chinese businessman Guo Wengui recently revealed leaks from Wuhan crematoriums. He claims based on the number of bodies their furnaces are burning, the death toll could be as high as 50,000.

A Chinese billionaire and whistleblower who lives in U.S. exile says Wuhan crematoriums have burned 50,000 coronavirus victims. | Credit: Chinatopix via AP

The official coronavirus death toll in China is a little over 800. But an exiled Chinese businessman says crematoriums are leaking the real figure.
A billionaire whistleblower alleges Wuhan has crematoriums working 24/7. He claims they’ve cremated some 50,000 coronavirus victims.
Guo Wengui is a Chinese billionaire living in exile in the United States.

The official coronavirus death toll is some 800 people in China. The current official death toll worldwide, outside of China, is 774. But a Chinese billionaire with a history of blowing the whistle on his former government says the real figure is much higher.

Exiled Chinese businessman Guo Wengui recently revealed leaks from Wuhan crematoriums. He claims based on the number of bodies their furnaces are burning, the death toll could be as high as 50,000. Wengui made the bombshell allegations in an interview with former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon.

Whistleblower: 1.5 Million Coronavirus Cases In China, 50,000 Coronavirus Deaths In Wuhan

He also claims to have inside information that there are 1.5 million confirmed coronavirus cases in China. Wengui is emphatic that these are not merely quarantined or “under observation” but confirmed cases of coronavirus infection:

China has struggled to contain the coronavirus. But it has also struggled to contain public outcry against censorship and tight control of information. Dr. Li Wenliang, who sounded the alarm about the disease, succumbed to an infection and died this week. The Chinese government arrested him for blowing the whistle.

Then officials tried to suppress news of his death. Afterwards, millions of Chinese citizens saw the hashtag #IWantFreedomOfSpeech on Mandarin language social media. But the Chinese government censored that too.

Are Wengui’s Crematorium Claims Credible?

Watch VICE’s 2017 profile on Guo Wengui. At the time, he published bombshell documents alleging corruption in the Chinese government. He got the attention of the media and reportedly the U.S. State Department.

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