PREPARE Magazine October 2013

Bear Aware of Barely Aware Tis the Season of Infirmity Pets in a Crisis Situation Apache Ways

Book Review: Secret Garden of Survival

Try an Edible Landscape this Fall OCTOBER 2013

Letter from the Editor

Summer is coming to a rapid close. As the seasons change our thoughts may also be filled with life in its current state. One thing we must be diligent to do is remain focused on the potentials of life as we know it to alter at the drop of a hat. To be prepared, as best we possibly can, to shift or alter with grace, peace and compassion with whatever may come our way.

That is why in this issue of PREPARE Magazine you will find our focus this month is on dealing with not only human creatures, but the creatures other than ourselves, both untamed a n d domesticated. If hunting is an option for your food source, you could learn a very valuable attitude of thanks from the Apache Ways. Perhaps your safest location is in a remote area, in which it is important to know if you are Bear Aware or Barely Aware.

Both urban, suburban and rural families who own pets may also need to plan for the animals’ in their keeping by knowing First Aid for Pets and planning what to do about Pets in a Crisis Situation. No matter your interaction with animals, be they livestock, pets or wild, they have a part in your preparedness planning.

To round out some other areas of life that need our preparedness attention, you will benefit from other articles, especially after the disastrous Floods that surprised Colorado recently. At this time of year it’s also a good idea to think outside the food storage box and perhaps Try an Edible Landscape this Fall or curl up with a good book such as the one recommended in the Book Review: Secret Garden of Survival.

And as the weather turns and the summer harvest has slowed, it’s a good time to see the benefits to Write it Down. Start Now. And as a reminder, there are always Important Things you cannot Neglect no matter the life’s hectic schedule or the pending year end activities.

It may seem there’s been a lull in the need to prepare, to fortify, and to learn skills. Let us assure you the need has never been greater to prepare, than in the quiet, seemingly more stable times. Perhaps many people may feel that they have arrived and feel 100% secure in their plan or are on the other full end of the spectrum and see no need. Again a false sense of security can arise from either of these attitudes as well. That is why it is important to consider that there is coming a Transitioning of Treasures. To learn now how to deal with that transition will help you face life’s changes.

Again and always we share a Special Thank You to recognize the encouraging participants of PREPARE Magazine. From Special Partners and Contributors to designers, editors and writers, this is wonderful group of folks with whom to share the vision of helping more people be peacefully prepared. It is our joy to serve you, our readers and Premium Members. We are truly Blessed, Humbled and Honored with this calling.

Donna Miller PREPARE Magazine Managing Editor

TABLE OF CONTENTS •

Letter from the Editor

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Tis the Season of Infirmity

www.preparemag.com

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Important things you cannot forget

Publishing Mainline Marketing Group, LLC

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Bear Aware or Barely Aware

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Apache Ways

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Try an Edible Landscape this Fall

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Write it Down. Start Now! !

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Pets in a Crisis Situation

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First Aid for Pets

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Floods

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Book Review: Secret Garden of Survival

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Preparing the Heart: Transitioning of Treasures

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Special Thank You

PREPARE Magazine

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‘Tis the Season…of Infirmity!

By Brittney Miller Cold and flu season is upon us!

If you’re already preparing for disaster, economic collapse, and food shortage, shouldn’t you also be preparing for potential illness? We should desire to be in charge of our own family’s health and take responsibility in this area of preparation. In addition to preventative care, there are other ways to prepare for the cold and flu season by obtaining important essential oils.

Personally, I have found the use of essential oils to be safe and effective with little to no negative side-effects.

Essential oils are 50-70 times more potent than dried herbs. They are now my personal “go-to” method (along with herbs of course) for anything illness-related and are a natural, alternative way to care for my own health and the health my loved ones.

I have a recommendation to help kick start your preparation for cold and flu season. dōTERRA® is the company I obtain my essential oils from. They have a kit called the Family Physician™. It contains 6 single essential oils and 4 of their blends which can replace most (if not all) of the OTC drugs in your medicine cabinet. I have utilized every one of these oils to manage my own health since I received the Family Physician™ kit. And flu season hadn’t even arrived yet! The uses have been so versatile and helpful.

Using four of the essential oils from this kit, I was able to create my own “flu shot in a bottle” with a special combination of Lemon, On Guard®, Melaleuca, and Oregano diluted in fractionated coconut oil. Now if I ever catch the flu again, I know I’m prepared and can use this essential oil blend for a fast recovery. I’ve actually already used this blend to help with some allergy issues recently and I was astounded by and pleased with the results.

Fill a 5ml bottle or 1/6oz roller bottle with the following Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade™ essential oils (in this order): 18 drops Lemon 14 drops On Guard™ 14 drops Melaleuca 10 drops Oregano Fractionated coconut oil

You can use this blend by rolling it on the bottoms of your feet, which is the fastest way for these oils to enter the blood stream. You can also diffuse it in the air to kill those airborne pathogens.

If you are concerned about this upcoming season and how you can prepare your family’s health, you may want to consider the Family Physician™ kit. It is an excellent way to begin learning the crucial skills you may need in case of an outbreak and to naturally help keep your family healthy when doctors may not be accessible.

I would also be happy to assist you with learning more on what you can do to utilize essential oils for your family’s health.

Remember that this information is intended for educational purposes only. It may not be complete and is not intended to prescribe nor to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any condition or disease. Please note that the internal use of essential oils is specific to Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade™ (CPTG) dōTERRA® essential oils and should be utilized at your personal discretion.

Though the use of CPTG essential oils is highly effective and safe, please take care to follow product labels and instructions and use proper wisdom and judgment. The decision to use, or not to use, any of this information is the sole responsibility of each individual. I recommend consulting your healthcare practitioner and seeking professional assistance if you are dealing with an illness, pregnant, or nursing. http://www.mydoterra.com/aclayheart

Important Things You Absolutely Cannot Neglect If You Expect To Survive During a Crisis

By Trent Powers Everywhere you turn people are now making plans for crisis and difficulties ahead. People are anticipating tough days, and are wisely preparing and getting ready for the challenges. It is quite possible that survival will depend on adequate preparation and strong planning.

There are many resources available, as-well-as survival training courses for every level of survival skill you have an interest in. It seems that most people who are in preparedness are looking for basic self-reliance skills that will help their family properly plan so they are able to survive a temporary crisis or disaster.

a disaster. They convince themselves it is only a few days and everyone can tough it out. This is quite easy to say when the sun is shining and the birds are chirping but when the icy rain is beating down and the power has been off for a week, comfort from simple things like a sleeping mat, or good sleeping bag can mean the difference between surviving and not.

When the power goes out and you do not have heat everyone sleeps in a common room, and people must be comfortable. A good nights' sleep is essential no matter what the situation is. You must prepare for this.

Psychological well-being is critical to everyone's survival, so everyone must have a hot meal to look forward to and a warm and comfortable sleeping area.

The fact is, no-one knows what the future holds and whether there is a tragic event heading our way.

Obviously, there is always the potential of a natural disaster hitting that could quickly decimate a local community, or even impacting a larger region.

There is also the potential of a more catastrophic occurrence that could be more wide-spread and affect millions of people. While these type of events have not been common, there is a very real threat that people in our lifetime could be impacted by destructive events that will create estreme hardship and havoc. The loss of power-grid because of a massive solar flare or Electromagnetic Pulse, a thermonuclear or biological explosion in a high-population area, or even global economic collapse could trigger a meltdown in society that forces us to fight for our very survival.

As previously stated, there are plenty of trainings and resources to help get us prepared, but sometimes in our eagerness to prepare for crisis we may overlook some obvious things that are still critical if we expect to survive. Let me cover some of the ones that are necessary for our survival planning:

Personal Comfort and Emotional Well-Being.

People do not put enough emphasis on personal comfort and well-being when it comes to preparing for

Mobility is critical to survival.

You may have to evacuate and it may not be possible using your vehicle. Bicycles, motor scooters/mopeds and small motorcycles may be an option because they can avoid certain obstacles and go cross-country so to speak. Never over look the importance of being mobile.

You may have to move around on foot, so prepare for this by conditioning yourself for hiking and carrying a backpack and once again getting used to your bicycle.

Having a network (community) established can save your life during a crisis.

This is something you should not neglect, and more and more Preppers are establishing networks. You will need resources, knowledge and help and knowing where to go for help ahead of time can be very beneficial. Establish a network by recruiting those that have skills and knowledge that can be called upon during a disaster. You of course can offer things in return so you can expect to be called for help as well.

You will need medical personnel, carpenters, engineers, law enforcement personnel and people with military training. Establish a way to communicate and relay information during the crisis.

very important aspect of a crisis, aside from the disaster itself your biggest threat will be other citizens in the community during a crisis.

Carefully plan your supply needs Neglecting to calculate amounts of supplies needed is a common mistake. Families just tend to stock up on supplies not knowing how much they need, and how long what they do have will last and in some cases do not know what they have until disaster strikes. Once they take an inventory by candle light, they may realize that 25 cans of spinach and 30 cans of sauerkraut is not ideal survival food.

You cannot neglect a home defense plan.

Looters and criminals in general will be more active during a crisis, looking to take advantage. Law enforcement will be operating in a limited capacity if at all in some cases. You will need a way to fortify your home such as putting up plywood sheets over the outside of all glass openings and making sure you have exterior lighting even if it means getting a portable generator. You need deterrents because you may not get a response if you call 911. You cannot ignore this

You must know how much food and water you as a family and as an individual need on a daily basis. How much, and for how long because what would appear to be a 72-power disruption can turn into weeks without power. You need a goal, do you want enough for seven days, 10 days, 60, 90 or a year's worth? You need to set goals and know the amounts needed and then add 10 to 15 percent for waste, spoilage and damage.

Long-term Survival Strategy is essential Stocking food, water, and supplies is a no-brainer, but we must look beyond a temporary survival strategy and build a long-term plan. After all, if you store food and supplies to last through a three month disaster you may be in a a very difficult situation if the crisis lasts beyond your planning. Also, if there is a massive hit to the food and water supply, or a loss-valuation of the economy, purchasing additional supplies during a crisis may become difficult or even impossible. You should have a plan for being able to produce your own food, natural remedies, water, and even electricity.

Your survival may depend on you having a good plan in place that goes well-beyond a typical food and water storage strategy.

Bear Aware or barely aware?

If You Expect To Survive During a Crisis

By Bill & Janet Liebsch

Black bear: •Colors include black, brown, blond, cinnamon, and rust. The most common snout color is light brown and some rare face colors are blue and white.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, black bears can be found across most of North America, whereas grizzly / brown bears are found in the northwestern states, Alaska and western Canada.

Both black and grizzly/brown bears may visit areas of human use because they find or smell food. Food can include unsecured garbage, birdseed, pet food, fruit trees and some gardens.

Drought, wildfire and urban development can cause bears to roam farther in search of new food sources.

Young bears sometimes travel long distances in search of an area not already occupied by another bear.

Black bear versus The Grizzly Black bears are the smallest of the North American bears and live in almost every part of the continent. But don’t let their name fool you since their fur can be black, various shades of brown, or blond. There is even one race that is smoky-blue and another race is pure white. But most black bears have long, black hair over most of its body with a splash of white on their chests.

BeBearAware.org explains Alaskan brown bear and the grizzly bear are recognized as separate species although mammologists generally agree they are one and the same animal. Bear experts admit they are unable to tell the animals apart, but one distinct difference is Alaskan brown bears are huge, formidable animals that may weigh as much as 1,500 pounds while large grizzlies can tip the scales at a top weight of about 800 pounds.

•Average weight in the West is 100 – 300 pounds, with males usually larger than females. Males may weigh up to 400 or more pounds, with some as large as 800 pounds!

•Height is 2.5 – 3 feet at the shoulder when standing on all fours and 5 feet standing upright.

•Rump is higher than front shoulders; it does not have a shoulder hump/muscle.

•Face profile is straight; muzzle is long.

•Ears may be long and prominent.

•Front claws are less than 2 inches long, dark colored, sharp, curved, and good for climbing. Claw marks do not always show in tracks.

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Grizzly Bear: •Color varies from blond to black. Often medium- to dark-brown legs, hump, and underparts with lighttipped (grizzled) fur on head and upper body.

•Average weight is 500 pounds for males and 350 for females. Males may weigh up to 800 pounds. (Note: Alaskan brown bears may weigh as much as 1,500

pounds.)

•Average height is 3.5 – 4 feet at shoulder when on all fours, and 6 –7 feet when standing upright.

•Distinctive shoulder hump is actually muscle mass that enables powerful digging.

•Rump is lower than shoulder hump.

•A dished-in profile between eyes and end of snout helps distinguish grizzlies from black bears.

•Ears are round and proportionately small.

•Front claws are 2 - 4 inches long, usually light colored.

Possible Conflicts with Humans and Pets Most conflicts with black bears are the result of people unintentionally feeding bears, most often by allowing them access to household garbage or bird feeders. They raid dumpsters, garbage cans and grills looking for an easy meal. They might enter a building by walking on automatic doormats or breaking screen doors and windows to look for food they smell.

Although uncommon, black bear attacks on humans occasionally occur, especially in areas where they come into frequent contact with hunters or people and their game or food. Grizzly attacks (although rare) happen but usually it is because humans wander into their territories while hiking, bear watching, camping or hunting.

If you are camping, hiking, fishing or hunting in bear country it is critical to store your food, toiletries, bait, fish or game, and garbage properly at all times. And make sure you learn the local regulations for the area you are visiting.

What Should I Do If I See a Bear?

Remain calm and avoid sudden movements.

If you see a bear but the bear doesn't see you, detour quickly and quietly.

Give the bear plenty of room, allowing it to continue its activities undisturbed. If you are far enough and a safe distance away, enjoy the view but stay aware. If a bear changes its behavior, it is warning you so back away immediately.

If a bear spots you, you want it to know you're human so talk in a normal voice, group together and back away. Try not to show fear. Bears use all their senses to try to identify what you are.

Remember that a standing bear is not always a sign of aggression. Many times, bears will stand to get a better view of what it smells and hears.

Do not turn around and try to run from it. This will excite the bear. It can easily outrun you since they can run faster than 30 mph.

If a bear starts to approach, and you have bear spray, prepare to use it, if necessary; preferably before the bear is within twenty-five feet. Direct spray downwards (using one or both hands) since the cloud will billow up.

If a Black Bear Charges…

Throw something onto the ground (like a camera or a hat, bandana or handkerchief) if the bear pursues you, as it may be distracted by this and allow you to escape.

Be loud, group together, stand your ground and, if necessary, use your bear spray creating a barrier between you and the bear.

If it makes (or is about to make) contact, fight back vigorously using any object you have such as rocks, sticks, hiking poles, binoculars or bare hands, or use your bear spray.

If a Grizzly Bear Charges and Makes Contact…

Play dead, lying on your stomach, clasp your hands behind your neck, and use your elbows and toes to avoid being rolled over. If the bear does roll you over, try to keep rolling until you land back on your stomach.

Remain still and try not to struggle or scream.

Once the bear backs off, stay quiet and still for as long as you can. Do not move until you are absolutely sure the bear has left the area.

To prevent further problems: If you live in bear country, take responsibility for not attracting them. Always work with your neighbors to achieve a consistent solution to the problem situation, and keep in mind that doing a combination of things is better than doing just one.

Be aware that human behaviors, such as feeding other animals, can attract bears.

Feed your pets inside or remove uneaten pet food between feedings.

Remove garbage regularly or keep in secure buildings.

Remove other enticing food sources, such as birdseed, hummingbird feed (sweet liquid), fruit from trees or shrubs located near buildings.

Remove brush and cover around homes and corrals, creating a 50-yard barrier.

Fences, lighting and dogs have not been found to be effective, long-term deterrents. Bears are good climbers, so to reduce a bear's ability to get over a fence, it should be at least 6 feet tall and constructed of non-climbable material.

To learn more visit www.bebearaware.org

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Apache Ways: Living among Wolves

By Snake Blocker, Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas Many wild animals attack their prey from behind. The Apache warrior knew this, so one strategy was to place the head of an animal over their head facing the Apache’s backside. The Apache could see in front of them, and if an animal was hunting them from behind, the animal would be confused seeing another animal facing them. Heads of bears, wolves, and deer were common head decoys among Apaches. An adaptation for modern Apaches is to wear sunglasses behind their head or to wear a bandanna with a small mirror attached to the backside of the bandana.

Trapping was always used, and sometimes in conjunction with the other strategies mentioned above. The Apache knew that to catch an animal, one must understand their ways and be able to become as they are. The Apache warrior was, and still is, a great hunter, using ways of the old and the new. The Apache is taught to pray to God before a hunt for favor; then to thank the animal spirit for giving itself to support their family. Lastly, a pray of thanks goes back to God for the reward of the hunt. This is the Apache way.

Another way for the Apache to be less detectable to wild animals was to cover their entire body in clay mud. The light clay could harden and close off the scent from human pores. This allowed the Apache to avoid being tracked by wild animals and would allow the Apache to close distant on their game and get in range for arrows, lance, war clubs, knives and tomahawks. # The Apache warrior would use plants, branches and flowers to add an additional natural scent and stealth to their strategy. The skin of animals covering the Apache was used to shield off scent as well.

Near lakes, rivers, or streams, an Apache would wait patiently in the water near water plants and rocks to seek out animals coming to drink along the water front. High ground was used when in range of waterfront. High ground included trees and boulders. The Apache would conceal themselves in the terrain and await the approaching animal[s].

When concealment wasn’t the strategy, the Apache warriors would form a large group of men, women and children, then circle an area known for groups of animals to settle.

The group would close the circle a few steps at a time, closing in on the animals. No matter which direction the animal[s] would try to escape the nearest warriors would close in on their attack. In cliff areas, the Apaches would half circle larger game towards a cliff, then attempt to corner and kill the animal[s], or run the animal[s] off the cliff with several Apaches at the base of the cliff.

FEMA www.fema.gov/plan-prepare-mitigate Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety www.disastersafety.org/high_winds

Try an Edible Landscape this Fall

By Rick Beach Fall is a great way to put out some additional color and harvest more vegetables. While many plants are starting to go dormant or die off there are several varieties you can plant now that can give color and life to your landscape.

Broccoli – While some of our lawn conscious neighbors

Kale – Kale comes in a few varieties and is cold tolerant.

We planted a blue green variety and a purple variety in our front yard. This is mixed in with all the “pretty” flowers. While some varieties are listed as an ornamental you can still eat it. Some studies have shown the more color a plant has the better it is for you. I have heard that you can turn kale into a chip for snacking. It is also good for juicing, cooked, or raw in salads and is really good for you. This is my first year growing kale. Someone told me about making them into chips as a healthy snack so I thought I would give it a try. If nothing else, it can go into the juice mix.

shudder at planting broccoli in their front yards where all can see, I have no problem. We planted some in the midst of our roses. The bold blue-green leaves I think will be a nice addition to the browns and yellows as other plants pack up for winter. They get about 2-3 feet tall and cover around 2-3 feet in diameter. Bonus: we get to eat not only the crowns, but also the leaves AND you can re-harvest over and over. Broccoli is a crop that once you cut will return with another fruit. In this case it is the flowers trying to germinate and spread seeds. Once you harvest, additional shoots will come up from the cutting. Cut several inches below the crown, at the leaf junction. The next set of crowns will be smaller but still edible. You can do this three or four times during the season. I recently discovered you can eat the broccoli leaves. I added them to my recent batch of V12. It’s like V8 juice but I added whatever I had handy. The 12 ingredients didn’t even cover any herbs I added.

Your first year will not have much fruit. The years after that they will do well. Many varieties will spread on their own. Within a few years you can have a blanket of plants and they will choke out any weed species.

Cabbage

–I am not a big fan of cabbage. The wife wanted it. I think ever since I tried the fad diet of cabbage soup, I may have burnt myself out on it. She loves coleslaw, and having it raw on occasion isn’t too bad. I may even try my hand at making my own sauerkraut. Fall cabbage can come in several different colors. We chose the purple variety and again a dark blue-green. We planted this in our front yard as well, intermingled between lilies and roses.

Sugar snap peas – We had to put a line around our front garden to keep kids from running through while our strawberries got established. While planting a fall garden we thought, why not use that for sugar snap peas? It will give them something to climb up. So we will have a wall of peas surrounding one garden this year. Edible straight off the vine, super sweet, or we put them in stir-fry, and even enjoy them cooked alone.

Strawberries – Strawberries are a fall crop? Yep, the everbearing variety will give you additional fruit into fall. We planted ours as groundcover in our front yard.

They stay green almost the year, and produce fruit.

They do well in almost any light condition. When fruiting, our youngest (age 2) races out each morning to see if any have turned red overnight. Sadly, as a result I only got a handful of strawberries this year.

Between 4 kids I am surprised I got that many. Looks like I will be planting more in addition to the 300 plants this year. One of the nice things about establishing strawberries as ground cover is you can get about 100 plants for $20. Wait until spring to plant.

Beans – With the ravenous hoard (our chicken flock) in the back yard we have become creative where to plant things. There is a chicken fence to keep them out of the vegetable garden but we decided to try planting some beans along the front of the house. This was a new experiment and see what would come of it. In between the hostas and the cherry bushes we threw in some bush beans. I chose a variety that yields a purple pod. These should go nice with the purple cabbage and purple kale. It will bring additional nitrogen to the soil at least and hopefully some additional color.

While we have many other edible species of plants in our front yard, which is what the neighbors see, this is about all we have this year for our fall crop up there.

People often ask “What do your neighbors think of you doing all this?” The answer is, I don’t know. I have never stopped to ask them if it is OK to plant in my OWN yard. I think it looks nice, it helps reduce the grocery bill, and they get some overage if we have any.

But the bottom line is they don’t pay my mortgage, they don’t put food on our table, and we don’t live in a restrictive HOA. You don’t see me complaining to them about spraying their lawn for weeds, or fertilizing their lawn with toxic chemicals. That is their choice, and this is mine.

Write It Down. Start Now.

By Joyce Mosley Pierce While I was busy raising my children, I was hit with the loss of three loved ones that changed my life and enlarged my focus. I moved from just keeping a journal and updating scrapbooks to realizing how important it was to not just record my feelings or events, but getting down to the nitty gritty of understanding all of the documents that play such an important part in every family.

My father passed away suddenly at the young age of 51; he had a heart attack with absolutely no warning.

He was alive when I started cooking breakfast and had died before I cleaned the dishes off the table. It took a full day to pull the family together from different states and then we only had two days to plan the funeral. He had done nothing to plan for his death, and if it hadn’t been for a kind uncle with an extra grave site, I don’t know what we would have done.

Our father had no siblings, so there was really no one else in the family to help. We had to figure it out as we went along.

Within the next ten years, both of our father’s parents passed away. They had pre-planned their funerals years before and I remember even as a child when we drove by the cemetery they would say, “That’s where we’re going to be buried. We bought lots close to the road so we can hear the traffic.” Then they’d laugh. We thought they were kind of silly about it, but Grandpa had been a traveling salesman most of his life and the two of them loved to travel, so it seemed fitting that they wanted to be close to the road, even in death.

Because of the healthy attitude they had toward their own deaths, we were able to use their funerals as a celebration of life, and the fact that they had prearranged their own funerals allowed us to grieve without the additional burden of trying to figure out what they would have wanted us to do.

You’d think that after seeing the difference it made to have arrangements made, I would start thinking about putting my own affairs in order. Still, I didn’t do anything until I read a story about a young mother whose husband was killed by a drunk driver while taking their children to school. Her story hit me like a ton of bricks. This woman’s story made me wake up and take action. I moved through my files like a woman on a mission and didn’t stop until I felt like I

had everything.

Getting Started I was the financial partner in my marriage, managing the checkbook, paying the bills, handling insurance, and any other paperwork that came through our house. My husband was busy with his career, and glad to stay out of my way! I knew if I was going to protect him and my children, I would need to document everything in detail.

I started working on this in 1989, so there are options available to you today that I didn’t have. I have updated the process and hope these ideas will just as helpful to you now.

1. Gather your information. For some this is as simple as pulling the files from a cabinet. For others, it might mean going through boxes and drawers to find documents that have been thoughtlessly stashed throughout your house.

2. Review the documents to make sure they are still active and say what you want. Visit with your attorney, your life insurance agent, or your financial advisor if necessary.

3. Keep your documents in a fireproof safe at home, and not in a safe deposit box. You want to be able to access the information when you need it, and the bank isn‘t open 24/7. Besides that, unless you are a signer and have access to the safe deposit box, you won’t be able to get close to it.

4. Back in the day, I would have recommended that you write the information in pencil because it needs to be reviewed and updated regularly. Today, I suggest typing the information into a document on your computer. That makes it so much easier to review and make necessary changes. http:// www.emersonpublications.com has a great tool to walk you through the process.

5. Scan the documents and save the files to a flash drive. You just never know when you might need to access them. A flash drive is easy to carry in your pocket or purse. You might even consider emailing the documents to yourself.

6. Tell a trustworthy family member or friend where this information is located! I have the original documents in page protectors inside a 3-ring binder.

That binder is in my home inside a fireproof safe.

7. Tell your family what you’ve done and schedule a time to sit down and review it with them. This is a great opportunity to gather your loved ones together and explain what you want and why. If you’re an organ donor, tell them why you feel strongly about it.

If there are special pieces of china or artwork, now is the time to tell them how you want them distributed.

Writing it down will alleviate problems when they have to divide your belongings later.

8. Put a note on your calendar to review it frequently.

At the very least, look at it each year when you’re working on taxes. Did you change banks? Do you have a new credit card? Was there a divorce? A death?

Did beneficiaries change? This is all very important to have correctly.

Over 90% of survivors are not fully prepared for an untimely death. If you are fortunate enough to have some direction from the deceased, there is less chance that you will be taken advantage of by those who prey upon the survivors. This extends beyond the funeral home and cemetery to those who may have ideas for how you should spend or invest your inheritance.

The majority of people haven’t gone through any process at all to record their information. They may have pre-planned their funeral, but not recorded

insurance details, or even given instruction on how their spouse could obtain the funds to continue their current lifestyle if their income was to end. Let's assume they think it will be a wonderful surprise for their spouse to learn about an unknown life insurance policy. The very sad fact is that an estimated 25% of all life insurance policies go unclaimed because the beneficiary is unaware that the policy ever existed. So, don’t keep any secrets. Let your spouse, or a trustworthy child, know what you have and where to find it.

It’s Not Just Important “In Case of Death” Anymore When I first started working on this, my primary purpose was to help my family in the event of my own death. Over the years, I’ve realized that it’s much more important than that, and even a tool that I can use frequently through the year. (Think about filling out applications for credit and having all of your information right there in one place!) This is something that should be included in every Bug Out Bag or 72-Hour Kit! It will be so important for you to have insurance information and proof of ownership in either trying to get back on your property, or filing a claim for the loss.

Why Don’t We Prepare?

Here are two main reasons we don’t prepare: (1) We are convinced that we’re invincible. Other people may die, but we won’t. My dad was one of those who lived in denial. He was going to defy the odds and live forever. Instead, it had to be as big of a shock to him as it was to us when he died suddenly at a relatively young age.

(2) Disasters happen to other people, but not us! If you watch the news, the media will gladly provide depressing stories of deaths, murders, and disasters.

Just because it hasn’t happened in your neighborhood doesn’t mean that it can’t. It’s just a matter of time.

We have just got to get out of this State of Denial. If you’re not the one who handles the paperwork in your home, then it’s time you started asking some questions, because you may be the one who needs it the most. None of us are immune to tragedy. If you wait until you hear the sirens blowing, it will be too late.

B r ing y our Whole Fa m ily t o t he

November 2nd -‐ 3rd, 2013 At The Lakeland Center, Lakeland, FL

FOR M OR E IN FOR M ATION A N D TO P U R C H A S E TIC K E TS GO TO:

www.LifeChangesBeReady.com

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@lifechangesprep

What About Your Pets In a Crisis Situation

By Trent Powers

Calamities and accidents can happen anytime. Things can get out of hand and before you know it, you are struck with a big issue. The damages can also be quite debilitating. Keeping in tune via the news can often help when it comes to storms and hurricanes. However, no matter how much you prepare, these events can still occur when you are the least prepared.

This is why people are now advised to obtain insurance.

This is to protect the interest of everyone in the family in case of an emergency or disaster strikes. However, what about the pets? You simply cannot leave your pets unattended. Thus, it is best to also ensure their safety.

Ordinary insurance policies will not cover the beloved pets. Our pets are also irreplaceable to us. Thus, what can you do to best prepare to care for you pets in an emergency situation?

The Well-Being and Safety of the Pet There are many ways by which an owner can care for his or her pet under ordinary conditions. However, when something out of the ordinary happens, you must also make sure that you are equipped with the right extraordinary tools to deal with extraordinary issues.

Many options are now available to pet owners. These can provide you and your pet with contingency plans in case of a crisis or disaster should strike. All it takes is for you, the owner, to know the option. Here are some of the areas of pet security to remember.

Securing a Pet Rescue Sticker You can get an ET rescue sticker that will alert rescue teams in case of emergency that you have one inside your

premises. These stickers come in vibrant colors. It will also immediately indicate the kind of pet you have in the house. Be sure to put the sticker in a location where rescuers can easily see it. Place it in the window, door or entry way. It must be prominently seen so those coming to your aid can immediately respond.

Name Tags

Tell Your Neighbors about Your Pets

Microchip Option

It is also a good idea to inform your neighbors that you have a pet inside the home. Your next-door neighbors can give a hand in getting your beloved cat or dog out of danger in case you are not around and something happens. Your neighbors also can take on the task of informing the rescuers about the presence of a pet inside your premises.

You also have the choice to have your pet undergo a procedure to attach a microchip into the body. This is procedure can be relatively inexpensive. Animal shelters can use the microchip information to immediately reunite lost pets with their owners.

Inform the Management For people who live in rental areas or apartments, it will also be helpful to inform the building manager of the pets you are keeping. They can easily notify you during an emergency situation through the contact information that they require.

Contact Information of the Veterinarian It is also beneficial to keep important numbers on hand so that you can contact someone in case something happens to your pets. The numbers of the veterinarian and animal emergency team can be very useful when the need arises.

Store Pet Carriers, Collars & Leashes Animals can also panic when things go out of control.

It is best to maintain the pets within your eyesight and confined. As much as possible, do not let them loose or else they may run away and encounter even more danger. Make sure that you have a pet carrier or at least a collar and leash. These will help you keep your pets close to you in case of chaos.

Pet Emergency Kit When it comes to your pets, you may also want to consider the possible medical needs that may arise. It will be very wise to include some animal appropriate first aide in your emergency kit.

Pets should wear nametags with your name and contact number in it. Remember a cell and phone number may be best in case either option is not accessible to you. This is a very good way to insure that your pets can be safely returned to you in case you lose them.

These steps will definitely help to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets during emergency situations. It will help you feel more at peace with the assurance that your beloved pet is insured in its own way.

First Aid for Pets

By Craig Johnson breathing you want to give a rescue breath to the animal by closing its mouth and breathing directly into the nose forming a good seal. Repeat 12 to 15 times a minute. If there is no pulse you also want to try and massage the heart by placing one hand over the heart and the other under the chest to provide support. For a small dog or a cat use one hand, forefingers and thumb doing compressions and other fingers providing support.

Provide 80-120 compressions for a medium to large animal and 100-150 for a smaller one. Alternate heart massage with breathing just as you would on CPR with a human.

Circulation Pets are often left out in many aspects of Emergency Preparedness. In this article I'd like to give you some pointers on pet first aid. I will focus on dogs mostly but some of this could apply to cats and other animals. By the end of the article you should be aware of some basic techniques and items you should have on hand to keep your pet in tip top shape when no vets are available. I am not a vet so I cannot give medical advice. If a vet is available you should get your pet to the vet ASAP if trouble strikes. I am an EMT currently in Paramedic School, so we will follow our ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation). If you take care of those first you are doing the right thing.

Airway and Breathing Issues Unfortunately, unless you are the owner of Scooby Doo, pets cannot talk. They cannot tell us what’s wrong when something is hurting them. You, as the human, will have to watch for signs and symptoms that something is wrong. If your pet stops breathing, check for a foreign object obstructing their airway. An animal that is pawing at its mouth or changing colors (turning blue) may have an airway problem. Try to look in the airway and remove the object with tweezers or pliers. If you still can’t get it to come out try placing the animal on its side and striking it three or four times with the palm of your hand. You can also trying squeezing both sides of their rib cage by placing a hand on either side and applying pressure.

If the animal stops breathing, place them left side facing up and listen for heartbeat. The heart is located in their lower chest near front elbow. If you hear a pulse but no

Bleeding issues can be quite serious and can occur from bites, cuts, or other injuries. When coming into contact with any bodily fluids it’s important to wear gloves to prevent infection from transferring between us and our pets. If your pet has been in a fight and has been bitten, you want to try to muzzle them if possible to prevent them from biting you. They can be in a great deal of pain and may not understand you are trying to help them.

With bite wounds, irrigate the wound with sterile saline, if available, to remove dirt and debris. If saline or another rinsing solution is not available use clean water. Once the bite wound is irrigated use direct pressure to stop profuse bleeding. Once the bleeding has stopped or slowed apply a clean dressing and bandage. Do not apply a tourniquet!

The same methods described above would also apply to regular cuts and bleeding issues. Remember to keep applying direct pressure. If you remove the bandage and pressure, it could cause the wound to start bleeding again. Holding the bandage in place for ten minutes minimum is a good rule of thumb. Change the bandages and dressings regularly with fresh sterile ones. Be very careful you don't apply the dressing too tight and cut off circulation.

Heat Issues Pets deal with heat in different ways than we do. It is a myth that pets don’t perspire. They do so thru their mouth (panting) and through the pads of their feet.

Therefore(,) they are much less efficient at regulating their excess body temperatures in extreme heat. Keep a close eye on your pets when extreme heat sets in. If you notice signs of heat exhaustion such as vomiting, collapse, (or) heavy breathing(,) remove the animal from the heat if possible. Begin to cool their body with a

garden hose, wet towel or tub of COOL water. Do not cool too quickly and use care just as you would a human victim of heat related emergency.

Shock A pet can experience what we call shock in humans just like we can. Look for irregular breathing and dilated pupils.

Shock can occur due to any injury, not just those mentioned above. Try to keep your pet calm and gently restrained. If you can get them to lie down, elevate the lower body to keep blood in the vital organs. Cover them with a blanket to keep them warm and put them in a comfy spot.

Your Pet First Aid Kit A number of pre-made pet first aid kits are available, but I find it a better option to put together your own kit. You should include at least the following items: scissors, sterile eye wash, tweezers, toenail trimmers, ear wash, medical tape, vet wrap (you can pick this up at most feed stores), Quikclot or similar to stop bleeding, antiseptic wash/wipes,

pet thermometer, bandage scissors, vet prescribed pain relief, Benadryl, plastic syringe, exam gloves, extra towels, a muzzle or materials to make one, and a sturdy box or bag to carry everything in. Most of the above items are selfexplanatory. Let your vet prescribe pain medication for your pet as most human pain killers such as Tylenol can kill or seriously harm your animal. Also ask your vet about the proper dose of Benadryl to give your pet for allergic reactions and insects bites/stings.

Conclusion Pets are close family members, but are often left out of many preparedness plans. It is my hope with this article you will see some ways to care for them when a vet is not an option or at least not an immediate one. I encourage you to do more research on how to care for your pets when things go south, as this article just scratches the surface to get you thinking.

Thanks for reading and Happy Prepping!

Floods

By David E Crossley While Britain does not suffer from some of the most horrendous weather events experienced elsewhere in the world, we do have our fair share of floods, and they are getting worse!

Flooding in the UK usually comes from 1 or more of 3 sources: •Exceptional rainfall •Heavy snowfall followed by a rapid thaw •Coastal storm surges Our flooding since the start of the new millennium has mainly been from exceptional rainfall. This has given events such as flash floods and the repeated river overflows in Gloucestershire, Yorkshire, and elsewhere, particularly in 2007, 2010, and 2012, with some towns and cities having areas flooded by overflowing drains and excessive surface water on paved areas.

That latter effect has caught out many people who live miles from the nearest river and have never experience flooding before, nor expected to. Meanwhile some towns and cities like York and Tewksbury that have known occasional flooding many times over the centuries have found it becoming an annual event. And despite the efforts of various agencies in some areas it is becoming increasingly damaging. Those people in flood prone areas in what were once expensive and desirable homes now find that they can neither sell nor get insurance.

Depending on the level, flooding can be anything from an inconvenience to a disaster. If your house or business is affected by deep flooding you will almost certainly have to evacuate and in many cases people have not been able to return to use the buildings for over a year.

We have friends in this situation and they initially went to a hotel or local evacuation centre and were eventually moved to temporary accommodation; in 1 case a touring caravan (trailer), for almost 18 months before the family could return to their home. In some buildings the foundations or structure have been so badly damaged the only safe alternative was demolition.

Threats So, what are the threats from flooding? Direct threats include: •Drowning – people drown in their buildings, in their cars, and on the street when the water catches them unexpectedly or while trying to evacuate, and often, tragically, while trying to rescue another person or animal.

•Electrocution – in a building or outside when power lines are brought down or substations flooded.

•Chemicals – flushed out of their normal storage.

•Sewage and other biological hazards.

•Injury – Flood waters can move heavy objects (e.g. trees, fences, cars, etc) at high speed. If you are struck by one of these objects you might sustain severe injury. The water also covers many sharp and otherwise dangerous

items, so moving through even still flood water can pose real hazards.

•Loss of possessions through damage or theft, destruction of cars and other transport, and even loss of your home.

And what can you do to minimise the threat?

Precautions and preparations

•Consider replacing timber floors and carpets with solid floors and tiles - rugs are easier to move (and are) less expensive to replace than carpets, and even if the tiles have to be reaffixed, the cost of sheet ply base is lower than laminate. Also investigate replacing at least the lower steps of a staircase with concrete instead of wood.

•Replace low level, chipboard and laminate kitchen cupboards with freestanding ones made from plastic or stainless steel.

•Replace wooden internal doors, skirting boards etc with plastic ones.

•Use lime plaster on ground floor walls rather than standard gypsum plaster.

•Paint the outside and internal ground floor walls with waterproof sealant or paint. Consider a 2 level decoration scheme so that you only have to redecorate the lower level.

•Have electrical sockets raised to waist level, or higher if likely water levels require it, rather than near the floor – they’re more convenient there too, especially if you have back problems.

1.The first thing to do is evaluate your risk of flooding.

Go online and research the flood risk and warnings for your area.

•If you have already been flooded, or believe the risk is high, buy a high-capacity pump that can extract water faster than your extra precautions will allow it to enter.

4.Prepare a Flood Plan. This should include:

2.Sign up for the text message and email warnings and find out what other alert measures might be available in your area.

•Safety plan – Know how to turn off your electricity, gas, and water supplies. Do it before the flood water reaches the switches!

3.Take measures to prevent or minimise the damage from flood water. This could include:

•Protection plan – know what to do to prevent or delay water entering your property. Store the equipment and supplies you will need (e.g. sandbags, floodboards, airbrick covers, etc) in a place you will be able to get them.

•Consider your use of rooms – could you use a higher level room for the living room/study/etc where the greatest number and most expensive, electrical equipment is used and instead use a ground floor room as a bedroom?

•Install non-return valves on water outlet pipes, including from the washing machine and dishwasher.

•Use silicone around doors and windows to reduce the likelihood of water penetration.

•Install fittings for flood gates on all external doors and low level windows, and airbrick covers close to ground level. Keep the gates and covers easily available.

•Storage plan – the things you will not take with you if you evacuate but want to protect by moving them upstairs or to some other safe location. Keep this plan easily available! In an emergency you have many things to think about and a list will help you not to forget something you might otherwise mourn the loss of. Think about pets, valuables (monetary and emotional), vehicles, electronics, furnishings, etc. Remember that looting of evacuated buildings is very common. Even if you make things safe from the water you might lose them to thieves.

•Evacuation plan – how will you get out, where will you go, what will you take?

•Contact plan – List numbers for family, relatives, and emergency services, insurance companies, etc.

Agree a contact that any family member who is out of the area when flooding occurs should call if they cannot contact people who were at home. Also agree close and more distant meeting places that are not likely to be affected by the flooding for use in case the telephone system is out.

5.If you haven’t already got one (??) prepare an evacuation bag. This might be your Bug Out Bag or part of it, but remember that you are more likely to be going to a hotel/evacuation centre/friend than a bivvy site in the backwoods, which if you are being flooded out due to torrential rain is probably the last place you would want to go! Suggestions on what to include are listed in the Annexes.

What to do if it happens

•If you can escape, secure your property and then get out early – the longer you leave it, the more difficult and dangerous evacuation will be.

•Take great care when moving through water and test to ensure you do not get in too deep. A long stick - even a broom handle is good - can be a great help. Six inches of moving water can knock you over if you are walking and 2 feet can lift and float your car.

•Beware of holes e.g. from displaced manhole covers.

•If you have had to move through flood water, then as soon as you are safe get out of the wet clothes and wash and disinfect yourself and the clothes.

•Put your contact plan into action – let family and friends know you are safe and how they can contact you.

•Contact your insurance company - and landlord if you have one - and employer, to let them know what has happened and how to contact you.

•If you need additional official help contact your council, and for other help any support/survival group you might have.

After the flood

•Keep informed about the situation – if you have online access keep visiting relevant sites. Tune your radio to a local station and listen for news and warnings. Watch the area around you.

•Make sure neighbours and friends you care about also know what is happening and what to do. Make arrangements to help one another where you can.

•Put your Plans into action.

•Put plugs in the sinks and bath and weigh them down with a sandbag or other heavy cover. Put a plug (e.g. sandbag) in the toilet •If the flooding is so sudden that you cannot get out, move yourself, family, evacuation kit, and emergency supplies to the safest place in the building, then prepare for signalling to potential rescuers.

When the waters recede it will be time to take stock and begin recovery action.

•As soon as possible, return home to secure your property.

•Take care as you enter: •Flooring might be damaged or displaced, •Other structures including staircases might be unsafe •There could be an electrical hazard

•Anything touched contaminated

by

the

floodwater

will

be

•There might be human or animal intruders •Make a list and loss-evaluation of any property destroyed or damaged and take photographs or videos.

Your insurance company will make arrangements to assess the damage to the building and make arrangements for repair.

•Do NOT switch on any of the mains utilities until they have been checked and approved as safe by a professional.

•Do NOT use any food or drink any water that might have been in contact with flood water. Water under pressure might have been forced into bottles, jars, or packets. Thoroughly clean the outside of sealed tins before opening. Do not drink mains water until it has been declared safe and then not until you have run enough through your water system to thoroughly flush and clean it.

• •If you are cleaning up yourself expect: •Outside: fallen walls and fences, all plants other than trees and large bushes washed away, missing rubbish bins, muck and rubbish everywhere.

•Inside: destroyed carpets, falling plaster, disgusting smells, ruined cupboards/furniture/kitchen white

goods/stuff in the garage/workshop/shed (including preps?).

•If you need to pump out water including from under the floorboards, you can hire a pump or might be able to get help from the fire service. Check with your insurance company first, this might be part of its tasks and only to be done when a nominated contractor decides it is safe to do so.

•If you are cleaning up yourself you can use ordinary cleaning products, a garden hose, etc, but do wear overalls and rubber gloves and boots. You might need a skip (dumpster) or lots of rubbish bags. The local authority might arrange extra collections.

•It will take much longer for the house to dry and be restored than you think: be patient!

•Be aware, especially if you are living close-by, that thieves will be waiting to take any opportunity to steal materials as your home is being repaired. Some of our friends had the new copper piping and other fittings stolen 3 times before the property was repaired enough to be secured!

Floods are bad news, but you can limit their effects and dangers by proper awareness, planning and response, and as in all emergencies many of the preps you make will be as useful for this one as any of the others.

Book Review: Secret Garden of Survival

By Vickilynn Haycraft

“Imagine a food garden that you only have to plant once in your life-time, that takes up very little space, that will provide food for you and your family for the next 30 years; that can grow five times more food per square foot than traditional or commercial gardening; and where you never have to weed, never have to use fertilizers and never have to use pesticide– ever.

And the whole garden is disguised to look like overgrown underbrush, so that anyone passing by would not even dream that you had food growing there!”

An important part of being prepared and maintaining a sustainable lifestyle involves growing as much of our own food as possible. Gardening for food is plain hard work, but successful and lovely gardens are beautiful to see as well as productive. The conventional school of gardening thought is that to have a successful (and beautiful) garden, we must work the soil, fertilize the soil, feed the soil, maintain the soil, remove pests and plant each year, doing the same steps over and over. But what if there was a method that promoted no maintenance past the initial setup, promised about 5 times the yield and have your garden be hidden from view (and theft)?

Would you be interested? I was!

The book lays out the simple method of permaculture, explaining why the “Secret Garden of Survival” method works better than conventional gardens, and provides the step-by-step procedures for creating your own camouflaged food forest. This is the extra bonus in this book, hiding what you are growing in plain sight, and the importance of camouflaging your garden.

The pictures in the Secret Garden of Survival give real-life and tangible examples of what your own secret garden of survival can look like!

Chapters in the book include: Grey Water Systems Permaculture Guilds Rain Water Collection Vegetable and Herb Garden

The book “Secret Garden of Survival, How to Grow a Camouflaged Food Forest” by Rick Austin, known as the Survivalist Gardener, provides the information that challenges the conventional school of gardening thought and creates a sustainable, manageable survival food and medicine source.

Planting Your Food Forest Natural Pest Control And much, much more, including this: Bonus: What To Do After The Harvest- preserving- canning, dehydrating Conclusion: Highly recommended for everyone.

Prepare by Transitioning your Treasures

By Joseph Miller

I have felt impressed to begin getting a bit more intense with my preparation efforts. I’ve been on the journey toward this transition for quite a while, so getting to this place actually feels like I’ve arrived home.

My part of my preparation journey has been a transition from a 1.3 million dollar mansion in California, to a much more remote area in a very small home that is on land that has been in my family for several generations. I have shifted from a lifestyle of riding in limos and eating at fancy restaurants, to enjoying a peaceful morning harmony of chirping birds, wind whispering through the trees, and farm animals cheerfully welcoming the sunrise. The stream on the property keeps this morning orchestra in perfect cadence as the restful water tumbles over the smooth rocks – flowing gently toward the river below.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit a local shop owner in our town. He had been a merchant for many years, and was lamenting about the fall of his business.

He had been extremely successful, but the last three years had been brutal for him – and he was somewhat bitter and angry.

The business this merchant had successfully built over the years was beginning to reflect “the shift” in what people value as a treasure. His wares were once considered a collectable investment that brought comfort and pleasure to the possessor.

Now, as people are impacted with a changing environment – sadly, his trinkets are quickly becoming worthless.

I believe a similar “transition of treasure” will be required of most people during the preparedness process. For some, it will be a difficult transition simply because their heart remains with treasures that have defined their lives and given certain levels of comfort.

In my personal journey, the Lord began to shift what I have value as my treasures. I firmly believe that one of the most difficult (yet required) elements of preparation is embracing the changes in what we truly place our value in. We can either embrace the transition of treasure, or we can wage a feeble struggle that will ultimately take us down a path of defeat and bitterness.

Either way, the change will inevitably happen – whether we want it to or not. The changing times will likely alter our view on the things that we have placed value in.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:35).

As we continue to prepare, I believe we all need to continually take personal inventory of the things that we hold as valuable. I reflect on how changes (perhaps even drastic changes) will impact the items that have been labeled as a “treasure.” These are the things that we may ultimately have to release in order to survive.

Every day I am more convinced… Our real treasures are not acquired by a purchase transaction.

THANK YOU! The Launch of PREPARE Magazine has been a labor of love, sharing of helpful training and ideas, and a partnership with some wonderful people. We are so thankful for the support and kindness of so many people who have joined with us in the journey and contributed to the creation and growth of PREPARE Magazine. We want to share our sincere and humble gratitude for everyone who has shared their support and encouragement. We simply could not have launched PREPARE without you!

On behalf of our readers, subscribers, advertisers, and staff, we wish to extend our heart-felt appreciation to all of you. We believe there is a very special mission for PREPARE Magazine, and are so pleased to be yoked with wonderful people who wish to sow encouragement and help to others in the Preparedness Journey.

Again‌ To all of you who have contributed and shared financial resources, preparedness training, advertising, testimonials, and encouragement, please know that we greatly appreciate you – and look forward to serving on your behalf.

Joseph and Donna Miller

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Raymond Freeman Heather Balentine Frank Gregg Joy walker Leslie Moore Peter Sedlak III Mark Firehammer S. Ryerson John Fairchild Bryan Van Hook Kathleen Roberts Bobbie Nelson Bill Liebsch Gail LaCroix Vaunell Temple Velda Solomon Jared Novotny Seth Johnson Vickilynn Haycraft Benjamin Geleynse Steven Jones Brandon Rains Rebecca Sanchez Teri Roberts Jeff Rowland Dr. Kaly Sellers Jim Kennard

Trent Powers Ken Youngquist Jason A. Hunt Vickilynn Haycraft Rick Austin Evan Folds Bryan Miller Bill & Janet Liebsch Pierce Jacobson Vina8 Eric Waters Charles Belitz Lynette Frye Kelly Thomas Nigel Jones Dale W.Montgomery Kim Lippy Steve Mistretta Aaron Berwick Valarie Brown Scott Angell Caryn lee Wayne Spencer N. Campbell Judith Hooley Founding Subscribers

Our Contributors...

Craig L. Johnson is an Eagle Scout, certified Texas Peace Officer, certified Texas EMT, and certified Wildland Firefighter. He attributes his knowledge of the outdoors, survival, prepping, and self-reliance to many years in the Boy Scouts and working for both Arkansas and Texas State Parks and Wildlife as a park ranger. Craig enjoys teaching others about firearms, plants and gardening, survival skills and more. He strives to learn something new every day and hone his existing skills. His Blog: http://thasurvivalnurd.wordpress.com.

Vickilynn Haycraft is the hostess of the Get Real – Get Prepared radio show on PRN.

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She is the author of: “Wrapping It Up!” and co-author of “Naturally Healthy Cuisine, Real Food for Real Families”. Vickilynn is a sought-after independent product tester and book reviewer delivering accurate, honest, and trustworthy reviews on products and books for the whole family.

Subscribe to Vickilynn at: RealFoodLiving.com, National Product Review Examiner, National Family Preparedness Examiner.

Joyce Moseley Pierce

is the creator of “All They’ll Need to Know,” and radio host on the Preparedness Radio Network. She’s a contributing author to the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series, and the author of “Saving Nikki.” You can pick up more preparedness tips and get to know her better by visiting her blog at: http://www.preparedineveryway.com/blog

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Rick Beach is a recent Graduate of Geoff Lawton's PDC sharing knowledge with whoever cares to listen or read it. Jack of all trades when it comes to prepping and gardening. After converting suburbia 0.2 acre into a homestead looking to do the same on a 6 acre homestead.

Publisher of the website www.wolfbeachfarms.com

Snake Blocker

is a member of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, is an accomplished martial artists and Apache Historian. He has served in the U.S. Navy since June 2001 and did tours in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the featured instructor in several videos and promotes his signature line of survival products and knives. Snake has been featured on Deadliest Warrior “Apaches versus Gladiators” and Doomsday Preppers “In the Hurt Locker”.

He hosts “Snake Blocker Survival” on Preparedness Radio Network.

Trent Powers

is a freelance writer and adventure enthusiast. He spends much of his time researching and testing survival skills and techniques. As an avid outdoorsman and homesteader, Trent believes that putting skills into practice now will provide for a more peaceful future. Visit his blog at http://www.tipstohomesteading.com

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Brittney Miller

is an avid “experimenter” of natural alternatives to conventional health, body, and home care products. She has a desire for healing to reach every facet of the human life. Brittney works in the healthcare field as a CNA, but her passion is to share and inspire others toward better living through the use of nutrition, recreation, herbs, essential oils, and other God-given alternatives. She is a dōTERRA® Independent Product Consultant and shares her holistic health journey on MyProVerbLife.com.

Bill & Janet Liebsch are the founders of FedHealth, a publishing and marketing company formed in 1999 to help the public focus on preparedness and health-related issues. We also are the authors, copyright owners and publishers of "IT'S A DISASTER! ...and what are YOU gonna do about it?" and are dedicated to developing programs that primarily benefit First Responders, schools and volunteers. Get a sample of the content with this free mini-ebook HERE

David E Crossley

is a British Prepper living in Scotland. He has been into prepping for over 40 years and has built his experience through 22 years as a soldier, 4 years as the Training Manager for Scotland for the British Red Cross and many years studying and doing the prepping things so many people just think or talk about. He is also a published author. Learn more about him at his website at: www.tfns.co.uk/index2.html

Joseph Miller heard the call to PREPARE well before it gained any popularity. For over 25 years, before the current climate of our time, before any evidence pointed to the contrary of an affluent future, Joseph was preparing his family for times such as these. With over 20 years of current experience as a CEO for Non-profit corporations and a sought after consultant for numerous multimillion dollar For-profit entities, Joseph is also the Chief Visionary Officer for PREPARE Magazine.

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Community Connections These groups have meetings in October.

PACIFIC Tuesday, October 1, 2013 9:00 AM Montclair, CA Inland Empire Preppers -­‐ Cyber Security Awareness Month

SOUTHWEST Wednesday, October 2, 2013 6:30 PM Phoenix, AZ

Arizona Preparedness and Survivalism Group Community Emergency Response Training (CERT)

NORTHWEST Tuesday, October 1, 2013 7:00 PM Broomfield, CO Colorado Urban TacTcal Survival Group -­‐ Come learn about prepping and Urban Survival!

MIDWEST Tuesday, October 1, 2013 6:30 PM Sun Prairie, WI Madison Preppers -­‐ Herbal Remedies for Preppers 7:00PM Wednesday, October 2, 2013 Indianapolis, IN Indiana Disaster Preparedness / Survival -­‐ What are Herbs: How do we grow, preserve, and use them.

SOUTHEAST Tuesday, October 1, 2013 7:00 PM Faye]eville, AR The NWA Hiking Group -­‐ Wilderness First Aid Class

Saturday, October 19, 2013 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM Asheville, NC WNC Preparedness Group Monthly MeeTng.-­‐ Topic Renewable Energy

Saturday, October 26, 2013 10:00 AM Nashville, TN PROVIDENT LIVING & SELF-­‐RELIANCE Provident Living Society Meet and Greet!

NORTHEAST Tuesday, October 1, 2013 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Ann Arbor, MI Michigan Wild Foods Foragers -­‐ Urban ecology Tuesday, October 1, 2013 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Marlton, NJ L.L.Bean Marlton Outdoor Adventures -­‐ Emergency Preparedness (Preparing our Emergency Pack) Friday, October 4, 2013 2:00PM Frederick, MD Survivalism & Preparedness of Maryland -­‐ Disaster Preparedness Boot Camp

Kitchen Gadgets, Lessons, Recipes, Grains and More

MILLERS Grain House

"Preparing you and your kitchen with tools, tips, skills and encouragement."

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Learn Preparation Skills

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WonderMill

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Preparation Food Storage

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WonderMill Jr. Deluxe

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Excalibur Dehydrator

FREE WHOLE GRAIN RECIPES

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RADIO SHOW

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PREPARATION BLOG (800) 824-4655 (828) 536-4988 www.millersgrainhouse.com/store

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