Resources:

How much bleach should I add to preserve water in a 55-gallon drum for long-term storage?

Answer: To preserve water in a 55-gallon drum, add 1/8 teaspoon (or 8 drops) of unscented household bleach per gallon of water. For a full 55-gallon drum, this equals 6.5 teaspoons of bleach.

• Use only unscented, plain bleach containing 5%-6% sodium hypochlorite.
• Stir well to distribute the bleach evenly.
• Seal the drum tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.
• Rotate the water every 6-12 months for freshness and test before use.
  
  

My stored water has been sitting for over a year. Is it still safe to drink?

Answer: If the water was stored in a clean, food-grade container and treated properly, it’s likely still safe. However, it may taste flat. To improve the taste, pour the water back and forth between two clean containers to aerate it. If unsure, re-purify the water by boiling or adding fresh bleach (2 drops per quart).

What’s the best way to start prepping without feeling overwhelmed?

Answer: Start small and focus on the basics. Build a 72-hour emergency kit for each family member with food, water, and essentials. Once that’s done, work on a 3-month supply of food you already eat. Take it step-by-step, setting realistic goals to avoid overwhelm.

How can I stop bugs from getting into my stored flour and rice?

Answer: Freeze flour and rice for at least 48 hours before storage to kill any pests or larvae. Then transfer them to mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or food-grade buckets with tight lids. Adding bay leaves to containers is also a natural deterrent.

Can I use any plastic container for long-term water storage?

Answer: No. Only use food-grade containers (labeled #1, #2, or “HDPE”) for water storage. Avoid containers that previously held chemicals, as they can leach toxins. Glass and stainless steel are also safe but heavier options.

What’s the difference between filtering and purifying water?

Answer: Filtering removes dirt, debris, and most bacteria using devices like LifeStraw or Berkey filters. Purifying eliminates bacteria, viruses, and parasites using boiling, bleach, purification tablets, or UV light. For questionable water, filter it first, then purify.

How can I tell if canned food has gone bad?

Answer: Check for:

• Bulging cans (a sign of gas from bacteria).
• Rust, leaks, or dents that compromise the can’s seal.
• A foul smell or unusual color when opened.
  If any of these are present, do not eat the food.
  
  

How long do oxygen absorbers keep food fresh in mylar bags?

Answer: Oxygen absorbers can keep food fresh for 5-10+ years when properly sealed in mylar bags. Use absorbers appropriate for the bag size (e.g., 300cc for a 1-gallon bag). Replace them if you notice the bag is no longer tight or vacuum-sealed.

How do I safely store cooking oil long-term?

Answer: Store oils in dark glass bottles or metal containers in a cool, dark place. Coconut oil, ghee, and olive oil have longer shelf lives (1-2 years). Rotate oils frequently and smell for any rancid odor before use.

In What Order Should I Prep?

Answer: When starting out with prepping, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the many areas to consider. To stay focused, tackle these priorities in order:

1. Water: Secure at least a 3-day supply of clean water for each person (1 gallon per day). Build up to a 2-week supply, then focus on long-term storage options like 55-gallon drums.
2. Food: Start with a 3-day supply of easy-to-prepare foods, then expand to a 3-month supply of items your family eats regularly. Long-term food storage comes next.
3. Shelter: Prepare to stay warm and safe in emergencies. This includes blankets, tarps, tents, or reinforcing your home for extreme weather.
4. Heat and Energy: Have backup heat sources (like propane heaters, firewood, or kerosene) and off-grid cooking methods (camp stoves, solar ovens).
5. Medical: Assemble a comprehensive first-aid kit, include prescription medications, and learn basic medical skills like CPR.
6. Defense and Security: Evaluate your home’s security. This includes reinforcing doors, having emergency tools (like pepper spray or alarms), and considering self-defense training.
7. Off-Grid Solutions: Explore off-grid options like solar power, rainwater collection, and alternative fuels for long-term sustainability.

By following this order, you’ll build a solid foundation without feeling overwhelmed. Start small, master each step, and grow your preparedness one layer at a time.