The Ultimate SHTF Survival Guide: How to Survive When Disaster Strikes

When disaster strikes, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. Whether it's a natural catastrophe, civil unrest, or a grid-down scenario, knowing how to react and what to do can help you stay alive and protect your loved ones. This guide will cover the types of disasters that could occur in the United States and provide essential survival tips for each situation.

Types of Disasters and How to Survive Them

1. Natural Disasters

Natural disasters are some of the most common SHTF scenarios. These include hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires, floods, and winter storms.

Hurricanes

• Have an emergency kit ready, including food, water, batteries, flashlights, and first-aid supplies.

• Secure your home by boarding up windows and reinforcing doors.

• Evacuate if necessary and know the safest routes ahead of time.

• Store extra fuel and cash in case of power outages.

Tornadoes

• Identify a safe shelter, such as a basement or interior room with no windows.

• Keep a weather radio handy for alerts.

• If caught outside, find a low-lying area and cover your head.

Earthquakes

• Drop, cover, and hold on during shaking.

• Keep emergency supplies in multiple locations in case of building collapse.

• Be prepared for aftershocks.

• Have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of gas leaks and fires.

Wildfires

• Create a defensible space around your home by clearing flammable materials.

• Have an evacuation plan and multiple exit routes.

• Keep an emergency bag packed and ready to go.

• Wear protective clothing and an N95 mask to avoid inhaling smoke.

Floods

• Avoid driving through floodwaters; just six inches of water can knock a person down, and two feet can sweep a car away.

• Move to higher ground immediately.

• Have a waterproof emergency kit.

• Store important documents in a waterproof container.

Winter Storms

• Keep an emergency heater, blankets, and warm clothing.

• Have a backup power source like a generator or wood stove.

• Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

• Stock up on food and water in case of extended power outages.

2. Man-Made Disasters

These disasters include power grid failures, economic collapse, civil unrest, and nuclear threats.

Power Grid Failure

• Have solar-powered or hand-crank devices for light and communication.

• Stockpile non-perishable food and water.

• Learn how to purify water from natural sources.

• Have a backup heat source in case of prolonged outages.

Economic Collapse

• Store barter items like precious metals, alcohol, and ammunition.

• Learn self-sufficient skills such as gardening, hunting, and food preservation.

• Diversify your income streams to be less dependent on traditional jobs.

• Form community alliances for safety and trade.

Civil Unrest

• Stay aware of local news and avoid hot zones.

• Keep a low profile and do not draw attention to yourself.

• Have a bug-out plan in case you need to leave quickly.

• Arm yourself legally and know how to defend your home.

Nuclear Threats

• Know the nearest fallout shelter locations.

• Keep potassium iodide tablets to protect against radiation.

• Stay indoors and seal off windows and doors if fallout is expected.

• Have at least two weeks’ worth of food and water stored in a radiation-proof location.

3. Pandemics and Biological Threats

• Stockpile medical supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Have a long-term food and water supply to minimize exposure.

• Learn first aid and natural medicine alternatives.

• Maintain strict hygiene and sanitation protocols.

General Survival Tips for Any SHTF Scenario

Regardless of the disaster, these survival fundamentals will keep you prepared:

• Bug-Out Bag: Always have a packed bag with essentials like food, water, fire-starting tools, first aid, and self-defense items.

• Bug-In Plan: Sometimes, staying home is safer. Secure your property and stockpile necessary supplies.

• Water Storage and Purification: Store at least one gallon per person per day and have ways to filter and purify water.

• Food Storage: Keep a minimum of three months’ worth of non-perishable food.

• Self-Defense: Learn how to use firearms and non-lethal self-defense tools responsibly.

• Survival Skills: Bushcraft, first aid, navigation, and shelter-building skills can be life-saving.

Final Thoughts

Surviving an SHTF situation requires preparation, knowledge, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. The more prepared you are today, the better your chances of making it through any crisis that may come. Start building your survival plan now and stay vigilant—because when disaster strikes, it’s those who are ready that will survive.

Emergency Preparedness: How to Protect Your Family in Any Crisis

Disasters can strike at any moment, and whether it’s a natural calamity, power outage, or societal unrest, being prepared can mean the difference between survival and catastrophe. Many people assume that emergency situations will never happen to them, but history has repeatedly proven otherwise. From hurricanes and earthquakes to economic collapses and even home invasions, taking proactive steps now can safeguard your family’s future.

Essential Supplies: Food, Water, and Electricity

Stockpiling Food

One of the most critical aspects of emergency preparedness is ensuring you have enough food. Grocery stores can be emptied in hours during a crisis, leaving those unprepared vulnerable. Here are key points for food storage:

• Non-Perishable Foods – Stockpile canned goods, freeze-dried meals, rice, pasta, and beans.

• Long-Term Storage – Consider investing in survival food kits with a 25-year shelf life.

• Self-Sufficiency – Growing your own food through gardening or hydroponics ensures sustainability.

• Cooking Without Power – A propane stove, wood stove, or solar oven will allow you to cook when electricity is out.

Securing a Clean Water Supply

Water is even more critical than food for survival. Without it, dehydration can set in within three days. Here’s how to prepare:

• Store Enough Water – A general rule is one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

• Water Filtration and Purification – Have water filters, purification tablets, and the ability to boil water if needed.

• Rainwater Collection – A rainwater barrel system can provide a renewable water source.

Backup Power and Electricity

A power outage can quickly turn into a crisis. Having alternative energy sources is crucial for staying warm, keeping food fresh, and maintaining communication.

• Generators – Gas, diesel, or solar-powered generators provide backup electricity.

• Battery Banks – Portable power stations can keep phones and small devices running.

• Solar Power – Solar panels with battery storage ensure long-term resilience.

• Alternative Heating Sources – Wood-burning stoves and propane heaters can keep your home warm in the winter.

Home Defense: Protecting Your Family

A critical aspect of emergency preparedness is being able to defend your home and family from threats. Unfortunately, during disasters, looting and crime often rise as desperation sets in.

The Importance of Firearms

While some may hesitate to consider firearms as part of their preparedness plan, the reality is that law enforcement can be overwhelmed in a crisis. Owning a firearm and knowing how to use it responsibly can provide an essential layer of protection.

• Self-Defense – In a breakdown of order, having a firearm ensures you can defend your loved ones.

• Deterrence – Criminals are less likely to target a well-armed household.

• Training and Responsibility – Regular training, safe storage, and proper usage are necessary to ensure responsible firearm ownership.

• Ammunition Supply – Stockpile enough ammunition to ensure long-term viability in a prolonged emergency.

Other Home Security Measures

In addition to firearms, reinforcing your home can deter potential threats.

• Reinforced Doors and Windows – Strengthen entry points with deadbolts and shatterproof glass.

• Security Cameras and Alarms – Early detection can give you the time to react appropriately.

• Outdoor Lighting – Motion-sensor lights can deter intruders.

• Community Watch – Build a network with neighbors for mutual security and assistance.

Types of Disasters You Need to Prepare For

Understanding the various disasters that could occur allows you to create a comprehensive preparedness plan.

Natural Disasters

• Hurricanes & Tornadoes – High winds, flooding, and structural damage make these deadly. Have an evacuation plan and a reinforced shelter.

• Earthquakes – Secure heavy furniture, have an emergency kit, and know safe zones in your home.

• Wildfires – Create defensible space around your home and have an evacuation plan.

• Blizzards & Extreme Cold – Ensure you have alternative heating methods and enough supplies to last through prolonged snowfall.

Societal Disruptions

• Economic Collapse – Job loss, hyperinflation, or supply chain disruptions can leave people unable to buy essentials.

• Grid Failures – Cyberattacks or system failures can cause widespread blackouts lasting weeks or longer.

• Pandemics – Future health crises could require quarantine measures and self-sufficiency.

Personal and Home Emergencies

• Job Loss – Financial preparedness and food storage can provide stability during economic hardship.

• Medical Emergencies – Stockpile medications, first aid supplies, and learn basic medical procedures.

• Home Invasions – Security measures and self-defense training can make all the difference.

Take Action Now: Begin Your Emergency Preparedness Plan

Emergency preparedness is not paranoia—it’s a responsible approach to protecting your family. Every day, unforeseen events impact lives, and those who have prepared in advance fare significantly better.

Steps to Take Today:

1. Assess Your Needs – Identify the risks specific to your location.

2. Start Stockpiling Essentials – Begin building a supply of food, water, and medical supplies.

3. Secure Your Home – Implement security measures to protect against threats.

4. Train and Educate Your Family – Ensure everyone knows emergency procedures and basic survival skills.

5. Stay Informed – Keep up with news and potential threats that could affect your area.

Disaster can strike at any moment, but with proper planning and preparation, you can ensure your family remains safe and secure. Start today—because when the time comes, it will be too late to prepare.

Get Prepared!

In-Depth Review: Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef | Freeze Dried Survival & Emergency Food | #10 Can | Gluten-Free

Introduction

Mountain House is a trusted name in the survival and emergency food industry, offering a variety of freeze-dried options designed for long-term storage and convenience. One of their standout products is the Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef, which comes in a #10 can and is labeled as gluten-free. In this review, we will explore its features, performance, taste, and overall value, assessing its suitability for survival situations, camping trips, or everyday meal preparation.

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Packaging and Shelf Life

The Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef is packaged in a #10 can, a common format for bulk emergency food supplies. The can is sturdy, resealable, and designed to protect its contents from moisture, light, and air. The freeze-drying process ensures the food remains shelf-stable for an impressive 30 years when stored in optimal conditions. This long shelf life makes it an excellent choice for preppers and anyone looking to stockpile reliable emergency food.

Pros:

• Durable and secure packaging

• 30-year shelf life

• Compact and stackable design for easy storage

Cons:

• Large serving size may require resealing or sharing

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Preparation and Ease of Use

Preparing the cooked ground beef is straightforward. The instructions recommend rehydrating the beef with hot water, a process that takes about 10 minutes. For convenience, the can includes clear guidelines on the water-to-beef ratio, ensuring consistent results.

Key Features:

• Simple rehydration process

• No need for cooking, making it ideal for power outages or outdoor adventures

Tips:

• Use warm, not boiling water, for better texture.

• Drain excess water after rehydration for more precise recipes.

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Taste and Texture

Taste is where Mountain House products often shine, and the Cooked Ground Beef is no exception. Once rehydrated, the beef has a surprisingly fresh, authentic flavor that works well in various dishes. The texture is tender and close to freshly cooked ground beef, with no rubbery or overly chewy qualities.

Ideal Uses:

• Tacos, chili, spaghetti, casseroles

• Emergency meals during power outages

• Enhancing flavor and protein content in soups and stews

Customer Feedback Highlights:

• "Tastes just like fresh ground beef. Perfect for our camping trip."

• "Added it to my chili, and no one could tell it was freeze-dried."

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Nutritional Profile

The product is gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. A single serving (approx. 1/2 cup) provides 140 calories, 10 grams of fat, and 17 grams of protein. This nutritional balance is excellent for sustaining energy during physically demanding activities or emergencies.

Pros:

• High protein content

• Low carbohydrates

• Gluten-free

Cons:

• High sodium content (500 mg per serving)

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Value and Cost

The Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef is priced at a premium compared to fresh beef, but its long shelf life and convenience justify the cost for many. A single #10 can contains about 22 servings, making it cost-effective for bulk storage and group use.

Who It’s Best For:

• Preppers building a long-term food supply

• Campers and hikers looking for lightweight, protein-rich food

• Busy individuals seeking quick meal solutions

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Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Excellent taste and texture

• Long shelf life (30 years)

• Gluten-free and high in protein

• Versatile in recipes

Cons:

• High sodium content

• Larger can size may not suit solo user

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Final Verdict

The Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef stands out as a versatile, high-quality, and reliable option for anyone building an emergency food supply or seeking convenience in meal preparation. Its exceptional shelf life, ease of use, and authentic flavor make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize preparedness or enjoy outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re a prepper, camper, or busy home cook, this product delivers on its promises. The price might be higher than fresh alternatives, but the convenience, longevity, and peace of mind it provides are hard to beat. If you’re looking to add a protein-packed, gluten-free option to your pantry, the Mountain House Cooked Ground Beef is an excellent choice.

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Survival Review: Coghlan's 36-Hour Survival Candle (6-Ounce)

 

When it comes to survival gear, reliable and versatile tools can mean the difference between comfort and crisis. The Coghlan's 36-Hour Survival Candle is a compact and lightweight option designed to provide long-lasting light and heat in emergency situations. Here's a full review covering its performance, usability, and overall value.

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Key Features

1. Burn Time: 36 hours of total burn time, divided among three wicks.
2. Size: Compact and portable at 6 ounces.
3. Wicks: Three separate wicks for adjustable lighting and heat.
4. Container: Durable metal tin with a secure lid to prevent damage and spills.
5. Use Cases: Light, heat, and emergency cooking or warming.

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Performance

1. Burn Time and Efficiency
The 36-hour burn time is impressive for such a small candle, especially when used strategically. By lighting one wick at a time, you can extend the total usage time. If higher brightness or more heat is needed, lighting multiple wicks simultaneously works effectively, though it reduces the total duration.

2. Light Output
The candle provides a steady, warm light suitable for small spaces like tents, cabins, or shelters. While it won't replace a flashlight or lantern for outdoor navigation, it excels at creating ambient light for indoor use or close-quarters tasks.

3. Heat Production
The heat generated is modest but sufficient to warm hands or a small area. In an insulated space, such as a tent, it can provide some relief from the cold, but it isn't a substitute for a proper heat source in freezing conditions.

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Usability

1. Portability
The small size and light weight make it easy to pack in emergency kits, bug-out bags, or car survival kits. The metal tin is sturdy and protects the candle from damage during transport.

2. Versatility
The three-wick system allows for flexibility in use. One wick is ideal for conserving fuel, while two or three wicks provide more light and heat for short-term needs. The candle can also be used for basic cooking tasks, like warming water or heating canned food.

3. Safety
The contained design reduces the risk of fire compared to open-flame candles, but care is still required when using it indoors. Always place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface, and keep it away from flammable materials.

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Durability

The metal tin is durable and well-sealed, preventing the wax from melting or leaking in storage. The wicks are easy to light and extinguish, and the wax burns cleanly with minimal soot.

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Pros and Cons

Pros

• Long burn time (up to 36 hours with careful use).
• Compact and lightweight for easy storage and transport.
• Versatile three-wick system for adjustable output.
• Durable tin for safe and secure storage.

Cons

• Heat output is limited for colder climates.
• Light output is weaker compared to LED lanterns.
• Not suitable as a primary light or heat source in extreme conditions.

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Who Is It Best For?

The Coghlan's 36-Hour Survival Candle is ideal for:

• Emergency preparedness: A must-have in survival kits for natural disasters or power outages.
• Campers and hikers: Great for low-light and low-heat needs on trips.
• Vehicle kits: Handy for roadside emergencies or unexpected overnight stays.

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Final Thoughts

The Coghlan's 36-Hour Survival Candle is a reliable and versatile tool that shines as part of a well-rounded survival kit. While it won't replace flashlights, lanterns, or high-output heaters, it offers a lightweight and convenient backup for light and warmth in emergencies. Its affordability and efficiency make it a valuable addition for both casual campers and serious preppers.

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In-Depth Review of Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply | Freeze Dried Survival & Emergency Food | 84 Servings

In times of crisis, having a reliable source of emergency food is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your loved ones. One option that frequently comes up in discussions about emergency preparedness is the Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply. Known for its long shelf life and convenience, Mountain House’s freeze-dried meals have earned a strong reputation in the survivalist, camping, and emergency preparedness communities. In this review, we’ll take a detailed look at the product, evaluating its features, taste, nutritional value, ease of preparation, packaging, and overall value.

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Overview of Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply

Product Type: Freeze-dried emergency food
Servings: 84 servings (14 days for one person)
Calories: Approximately 1,800 to 2,000 calories per day for one person
Meals Included: 13 different meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options
Shelf Life: 25+ years
Packaging: Resalable, Mylar pouches with oxygen absorbers
Weight: Around 8.4 pounds (3.8 kg)
Preparedness Focus: Designed for emergency, survival, and long-term storage

Mountain House’s 14-Day Emergency Food Supply offers a combination of ready-to-eat freeze-dried meals designed to provide nutrition and calories in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. The meals are intended for long-term storage, boasting a shelf life of over 25 years, and are ideal for situations where traditional food storage is not an option, such as power outages, evacuations, or outdoor survival scenarios.

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Key Features and Benefits

1. Freeze-Dried Convenience

Mountain House is one of the leading brands in the freeze-dried food industry, and its 14-day emergency food supply is no exception. Freeze-drying is a preservation process that removes most of the moisture from the food while maintaining nutrients, flavor, and texture. This technology allows Mountain House meals to have a very long shelf life—25 years or more—without the need for refrigeration.

Freeze-dried food is lightweight, compact, and easy to prepare, making it ideal for emergency situations where time, space, and resources are limited. All you need is hot water, and the meal is ready to eat in just a few minutes.

2. Balanced Nutrition

When considering an emergency food supply, it’s important to ensure that the meals are not only calorie-dense but also nutritionally balanced. Mountain House’s 14-Day Emergency Food Supply is designed to provide approximately 1,800-2,000 calories per day, which is a standard target for one person in survival scenarios. The meals include a variety of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to keep you fueled and satisfied.

Each serving provides a good mix of essential vitamins and minerals, though it’s worth noting that this supply is not a perfect substitute for a full, balanced diet in non-emergency circumstances. While the meals provide enough nutrition for short-term survival, you may want to supplement with additional food or vitamins if you're planning for a longer-term situation.

3. Variety of Meals

This emergency food kit includes 13 different meals, offering a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The variety is one of the key selling points of this kit, as it helps to prevent meal fatigue—a common concern when relying on long-term emergency food storage. Some of the meals included in the Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply are:

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with bacon, granola with milk & blueberries, breakfast skillet
• Lunch/Dinner: Beef stew, chicken teriyaki, spaghetti with marinara, chili mac with beef, chicken and rice, pasta primavera
• Dessert: Ice cream sandwiches, brownies (occasionally included depending on packaging)

These meals are designed to be both flavorful and filling, with a range of textures and flavors to keep your morale up during difficult times. For instance, the beef stew and chicken teriyaki are hearty and satisfying, while the scrambled eggs with bacon offer a comforting, familiar breakfast choice.

4. Ease of Preparation

Mountain House meals are well-known for their simplicity in preparation. Each pouch contains freeze-dried food, and all you need to do is add boiling water (about 1-1.5 cups, depending on the meal), stir, and let it sit for a few minutes to rehydrate. No additional cooking equipment is necessary, making these meals ideal for situations where you don’t have access to a stove, oven, or extensive kitchen tools.

The packaging includes clear instructions on how to prepare each meal, making it easy even for beginners or those with limited survival skills to follow. Some users have noted that a camping stove or portable heating source may be needed if you don’t have access to a fully stocked kitchen or running water.

5. Long Shelf Life

One of the biggest selling points of Mountain House meals is their long shelf life. Properly stored in a cool, dry environment, these meals can last for up to 25 years or more. The Mylar pouches are equipped with oxygen absorbers, which help to extend the food’s shelf life by limiting exposure to air. This makes them perfect for long-term emergency preparedness, as you won’t have to worry about rotating your stock as often as you would with canned goods or fresh food.

6. Packaging and Portability

The Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply is packaged in resalable Mylar pouches, which provide an additional layer of protection against environmental factors like moisture, light, and air. The pouches are compact and stackable, making them easy to store in a closet, basement, or even a car trunk.

At around 8.4 pounds for the entire 84-serving kit, the pack is relatively light compared to equivalent amounts of canned goods or other emergency food options. This portability is an important factor for those who might need to evacuate quickly.

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Taste and Flavor

While taste is subjective, Mountain House is consistently praised for the overall flavor and texture of its meals compared to other freeze-dried food brands. Freeze-dried food tends to have a reputation for being bland or unappetizing, but Mountain House has worked to improve the quality and taste of its offerings.

Meals like the Beef Stew and Chicken Teriyaki are often described as surprisingly flavorful, with generous portions of meat and vegetables. The scrambled eggs with bacon are often highlighted as a particularly satisfying breakfast, with the bacon bits offering a nice touch of flavor.

That said, some reviewers have noted that while the meals are tasty for freeze-dried food, they may not compare to freshly prepared meals. In extended emergency situations, you might grow tired of the repetitive meal options, but in an emergency situation, the comfort of familiar and flavorful foods can be a huge morale booster.

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Considerations and Drawbacks

While Mountain House’s 14-Day Emergency Food Supply is an excellent choice for many, there are a few factors that may be worth considering:

• Limited Dietary Variety: While the meals cover a wide range of flavors and ingredients, they may not be suitable for all dietary restrictions. There are no vegan or gluten-free options in the standard kit, so individuals with specific dietary needs may need to look for specialized emergency food supplies.

• Taste Fatigue: With only 13 meal varieties, some users may experience “taste fatigue” if they are relying on this kit for a prolonged period. The meals are flavorful but repetitive, so if you plan to extend your food supply beyond 14 days, you may need to consider supplementing with other food sources.

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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply stands out as a top-tier option for anyone looking to prepare for emergencies or long-term survival scenarios. Its ease of preparation, long shelf life, and variety of tasty meals make it a solid choice for short-term emergencies, outdoor expeditions, or situations where refrigeration is not an option.

While the price point may be higher than some other options, the convenience, reliability, and quality of Mountain House meals make it an excellent investment for those who prioritize preparedness. Whether you’re building an emergency kit for your home or planning for a camping trip, the Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food Supply offers a practical, dependable solution that can keep you nourished and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.

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