Download offline maps for Apple or Google Maps for hiking with no cell or internet coverage
Download the area you are hiking by doing the following
Learn
Read More
Why do I carry a small magnifying glass?
People ask me, “Why do you carry a magnifying glass in your wallet? Are you that old you can’t read the menu or the phone?” Funny. I carry it for only one reason, starting a fire in an emergency when I have nothing else like a lighter or ferro rod (this is super rare as I carry a tiny ferro rod in my wallet).
Never be lost using orienteering and navigation
I have seen so many people get turned around and they spend hours finding where they are, how off course they have become, and have to setup a make shift camp before they get to their destination. Most people think that their cell phone or GPS units will get them to their destination, until there is a failure of those items in one way or another, and they go off course, and now they are lost.
SitRep – Situation Report
A SitRep or situational or situation report was derived from the military during the Vietnam war era, and it is a good way to assess and understand the situation, understand any actions taken and still needs action, and anything else that may pertain to the situation so anyone and everyone can be updated. It is a good way to communicate in minimal time what the situation is, how to prioritize action items, and get things accomplished.
Building a Meshtastic transceiver for text messages
Building a Meshtastic transceiver for sending text messages without cell service and/or internet access is a good way to provide communication for your group in camp or survival situation to check in or communicate with your team. The range between two people is somewhat limited, but in an open area, it can go quite far (records are greater than 150 miles). I have tested them for over 1 mile where one device is in a home surrounded by antennas, metal, etc., and the other device outdoors with buildings and walls that limit the distance you can communicate. In the open, I easily got 10 miles.
Handgun or Shotgun for Defense and Survival
If you know how to use them both, then both, otherwise, I have to say Shotgun. Most people think that they are proficient in using a handgun for defense because they go to the shooting range and shoot at a paper target a few times a week.
First Aid and CPR
I have asked many people if they have ever taken a First Aid/CPR course. Many have not, and some have but it was a long time ago. Haven taken it a long time ago is better than never taken a course. But it is good to take the course every 2 years to stay current on the techniques and content as it does change over time.
The best solar power system for your home
Solar power for the home is a good option to have if you have the right system and the power goes out. Without the proper setup, all that a solar power system does for your home is reduce your electricity bill, which isn’t going to help if there is no power coming from the utility service provider.
Grasshoppers for protein
I have eaten all sorts of insects for food. Grasshoppers happens to be one of them. One thing about grasshoppers is they should never be consumed raw. They have parasites that can wreak havoc on your intestinal system.
Making questionable water from nature potable
So you found a water source but you have no idea if it is potable (or drinkable) or not. You can use a water filter, but if you don’t have one of those handy, you must boil the water before you consume it. You will need a pot to hold the water.