20 Rookie Prepper Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

[@robertmiller5735]

simply prepare for at least 8 weeks without electricity, ( no electricity means no stores, gas stations , etc - - -) and/or no city water supply, IN the dead of WINTER. This is a good point to START from.

[@OffgridVictory]

robert miller - Excellent advice

[@monte4808]

We lost power to an ice storm for 4 days with 5 kids who had the stomach flu. It happen. My sanity was pushed to the limits. At the time i only had 1 small generator. So everytime someone flushed the toliet we lost a tv. Practice mental patience. Its very easy to go stir crazy and im a homebody

[@Caderic]

We just saw this here in Texas. Although, it was NOT as bad as the news shows.

[@americansfirst1095]

Call them what they are.....antifa and democrats.

[@naomisims7230]

@@Caderic Well, some people died, so it was pretty bad for THEM.

[@kayceebird4307]

Call me a rookie, but my preps are all stored at home. At my age, bugging out is just not a good option. That's an honest assessment of my situation.

[@michaelwier1222]

Smiddy Wesson...The problem with bugging out is...where do you bug out to? Unless you have friends/family that live outside of town and have invited you, you're best bet is to plan on bugging in.

[@michaelwier1222]

The Provident Prepper....Good morning, thank you for your comment. Perhaps a video could be made (if it hasn't been done already) about bugging in vs bugging out, and the pros and cons of each. Absolutly a plan must be developed. Beginning with a general plan and working down to the details. But we both know how plans work out...

[@taunyaw2181]

When you mentioned not all your preps in the same place, I envision that meaning not all in the same room for instance too. For instance, maybe not all in a room that is below grade, especially if you are prone to flooding. But upstairs, in a shed, in a barn - depends on where you live too with temperature changes/seasons I think too. I spread our things out a bit last year too.

[@taunyaw2181]

@@TheProvidentPrepper That is what I figured :)

[@angelastimson2951]

I agree. We’re not going anywhere. Why go somewhere and make yourself a target in unfamiliar surroundings? I’ll stay in my home where I feel safe and protect what we have as long as we can . Plus, bugging out is kind of stupid unless you have a cabin somewhere in the middle of nowhere on your own island. I think that people think they can hide in the woods... that’ll last until they freeze to death...

[@geod3589]

My dad, who grew up during the Great Depression, never threw anything away, nothing. One of his favorite expressions was "what good is it if you can't eat it?" We grew up eating left-overs for days, not that anything is wrong with that, but he would not let one bit of food go to waste.

[@avanellehansen4525]

Yes. I'm almost 70. My grandma saved leftover oatmeal and wrapped it in a log shape in waxed paper. Refrigerated overnight. Slice 1/4" thick and fry in a little butter until outside is crispy. Serve with syrup.

[@janeparker1009]

well I am 0ver 80 and my parents did not waste any thing we had to save every thing for what they called for a rainy day. you never know when you will need it

[@falconbritt5461]

Every piece of string, every bit of wire, every scrap of tinfoil, every button... those who went through the Great Depression saved everything. Not sure that mentality was great for their mental health, however. Clutter can make people mentally ill, no joke. Neighborhoods could have a central location where such things could be stored, like an unused warehouse or store, and items shared as needed. We could also set up a neighborhood freecycle place or two where people could leave what they don't need and take what they need... It has been known to happen informally in my small town in two different places (one a porch in front of an unused warehouse, one an open location that kind of unfolded) and seems to work very well. Another idea: What if groups of neighbors who trust one another set up a central "tool library" where they could sign out tools and return them? Or for more security, put a disabled elder in charge of it and make people leave a hefty deposit on the tool with that person (records kept in a notebook and signed by both parties) to be returned to them when they return the tool in working order?

[@coreydarr8464]

my Father was the same !

[@mexcanfun4498]

In my little Mexican village everyone is naturally prepared like they have been for thousands of years. Paradise with food animals in the streets.

[@humbleevidenceaccepter7712]

Food quality will most likely suffer during a crisis. Always add a few bottles of multivitamins to your stockpile.

[@naomisims7230]

Yes!

[@Danafondo]

When I talk prepping, invariably a joking comment will come up, even though I don't outline my preps, of, "I'll just show up at your place". I just hold up my hand and say, "Please don't. I would much rather shoot strangers than friends." It conveys the thought.

[@robertmiller5735]

I tell them I WILL hate shooting you to protect my grandkids supplys .

[@chrisa.3925]

Keep your secret

[@LadyKate691]

don't tell anyone you're a prepper, they will come to your place and they'll tell everyone they're with you're a prepper too. don't get preps delivered to your house, pick them up yourself and park the car/truck in the garage before unloading. theres another guy on my street who is a prepper - so many rookie mistakes, i've seen all his preps get delivered and they're still in the original branded boxes which are visible from the street when the garage door is open (which is left open fairly often when they're home)

[@fireofevender5515]

Excellent!

[@margeincharge8760]

Make a supply list to hand them and simply say “don’t come without this”

[@mkmason2002]

Very good! I would add one other MAIN need, be prepared spiritually because all those preps can be gone in a 20-second tornado or a hurricane, flash flood, etc. But the Lord will be with you until the end of time, trust in Him.

[@michaelwier1222]

mkmason2002....couldn't agree more!

[@ecocentrichomestead6783]

Have fun waiting for your Lord as the hurricane is pulling your house apart.

[@michaelwier1222]

The Good Lord has given me the common sense to evac in a situation like that. The House is His, I am only the steward. If you aren't prepared to loose your house...maybe you shouldn't have one

[@mkmason2002]

@@ecocentrichomestead6783 Why would you say something mean like that? Actually, I lived in Wilmington, NC for 30 years and have gone through numerous hurricanes. Always trusting, always kept safe. But even if He doesn't keep me safe I will always trust in His perfect plan for my life.

[@toddlacey5274]

mkmason2002

[@user-unfound33]

Store what you eat and eat what you store, that was the best advice I have ever Hurd. Your channel got me into having a 90 day food storage as I live in an apartment, my wife wasn't a fan of prepping but now we are doing food storage she is more into it.

[@darthvader5300]

Rotate your stuff and live like an Amish or as a 1800 cowboy or rancher and the way Americans live between 1776 to 1850.

[@scoutndad1941]

I started in March when covid cuased so much panic buying and items flew off the shelves. That was an eye opener. I’ve tried to take a very balanced approach from getting dental work done, food, first aid (including antibiotics and stockpiling now 7 months+ of my asthma medication), I homebrew and have my kegs filled, empty carboys sanitized and filled with water and have unmilled rye and wheat ready to be milled to flour after maintaining my mill (with hand crank) to make flour beyond store bought flour, weapons maintained, rotating frozen meat, a bunch of lighting means and tomorrow getting our chimney swept. Balanced effort I think is key and buying food on sale. Over time accumulating 4-6 months of readiness isn’t hard to do. Stay well, prepare for the worst, but like this video shows don’t hope for it and enjoy the gift of TODAY!

[@magicforest71]

Great video! I’m a taxidriver in Sweden who’s just about to get more serious about prepping. With my low salary I won’t be able to ”buy my way out of a crisis”. I have to get prepared while prices are still normal. That’s how I think. And for me food security is the big issue / risk I see, because of the world’s inaction on climate change. I can’t afford to waste money doing beginners mistakes. Your video was very valuable to me. Thanks! New subscriber here. :)

[@whitebloodrain]

this video helped me tremendously. the "no hands on practice" thing was a big healthy reality check. after testing out some of my preps i realized in a true bug in/out i would have been screwed over by my own negligence. one of my worst habits being getting how-to books and saying " ill read them when i need them." but after reading and trying to follow them it wasnt that simple. bless yall! a lot of this isnt just one-time advice but lifestyle advice!

[@mauryhill9703]

Me too . I get too busy acquiring preps, I Ve only read 4 of the 20 books of skills and security, and first aid I purchased. Then I stupidly added them to the bookshelf in the living room. It’s not a heavily stocked bookshelf; but any visitor can easily deduce I prep. I have read the gardening and old fashioned cook books and practiced those ideas; but curious people may wonder why those cookbooks on sourdough bread making , etc aren’t in the kitchen with my other cookbooks!

[@avanellehansen4525]

I am procrastinating trying out my generator. It's intimidating.

[@anneparke5833]

@@avanellehansen4525 Make a special, festive day of it? With "prizes" for each direction you follow? And something exciting to provide power for a try the end? Maybe invite a mentor to coach you? Blessings,

[@anneparke5833]

Also, please make sure all safety routines and supplies are nearby?

[@jesuscross9]

I'm a rookie prepper. I just started stocking up on things the last few weeks. As far as food goes I don't buy food that we don't normally eat anyways. We lots of canned vegetables so when I'm in the store instead of grabbing three or four cans I grab a case here and there. LOL. I buy a lot of canned meat and boxes of scalloped potatoes that can be made by just adding water. I grew up listening to stories from my grandparents about the great depression which was almost 10 years long. So I realize just a few months supply of food isn't going to cut it. I plan on starting gardening this summer and learning other skills to put food on the table long-term. I don't think there's any possible way one could plan to store food and supplies for long periods of time. The food storage has to be short-term while you are getting your long-term plans up and running. I wish I would have paid more attention when I was a kid watching my grandma and grandpa can their own food that they grew and they're own garden. That's another skill I want to learn. Also I agree lima beans are awful. Eeew.

[@jesuscross9]

@@TheProvidentPrepper Thank you for your kind words. I was wondering if off the top of your head do you happen to know how long those protein shakes, like Ensure, can be stored and still be good? I care for my bedridden elderly mother who loves those things and didn't know if I could stockpile up on those. Thank you for all your good advice and may God richly bless you and yours.

[@roniniowa1661]

Canning jars are so great! My rice, beans, pasta, etc all gets jarred up after treating for bugs. Not only does this preserve well, they are easier to use as you go. In addition a pint, or quart jar is easier to use as a barter or helping hand.

[@thevoicewithin930]

Hi Ron, how do you treat for bugs?

[@mikeconley9590]

@@thevoicewithin930 put in freezer for a day or two . This kills the weavel eggs etc. Let it get to room temperature before storage to avoid condensation.

[@roniniowa1661]

The Voice Within freezer is definitely one option, I also do a heat in the oven at 190 degrees for two hours.

[@ElaHumanRightLawyer]

Freezing doesn't kill the eggs. I heard you have to freeze twice after giving the eggs a little time to hatch before refreezing but then i also know that thawing something twice can breed dangerous bacteria so I don't know🤔

[@naomisims7230]

@@mikeconley9590 The oxygen absorbers along with vacuum seal also kills all bugs.

[@monte4808]

Your perennial tip. If you want fruit and or nut trees,start now. I moved to acreage 10 yrs ago and wanted fruit trees, grapes, nut trees and berry bushes. We had kids so hubs ok the idea. What we didnt know was the soil from being farmed year after year lacked serious nutrition. I got most things to grow but producing items a piece of fruit here and there, a handful of nuts or grapes. Nothing like we planned. Still to this day its not enough. Hubs has a few ideas to improve things but just saying im going to plant well its not as easy as it sounds. And deer will destroy a garden, tree etc faster then a mob so plan for them bunnies raccoons etc as well.

[@humbleevidenceaccepter7712]

One big lesson I learned was be careful how you improve your soil. I planted my best tomato seedlings around a turkey carcass, thinking the nutrients would give me a great yield. Probably would have too if wild animals (racoons?) didn't shred the plants to pieces digging up the turkey.

[@matthewwynne939]

I was guilty too about having purchased three water barrels, for a good price, but then waited probably a couple years before finally hooking them up to my downspouts. In my defense, I went through a period where I wasn't sure how long I was going to remain in my house and didn't wan't to do any modifications.

[@KS-xb3cg]

Use cash when stocking up. Certain big chain stores keep debit card info with lists of purchases.

[@unitedheartsamerica5924]

Ooh good one!!

[@rosehavenfarm2969]

Expiration dates on foods is what I call the "don't sue us" date.

[@aint2proud2meg]

They really aren’t even that. With the exception of baby formula (maybe baby food too? I think there’s one other thing) they aren’t even mandatory. They are really there for the “best by” purpose (taste/quality) and to get people/stores to throw out old product and buy more

[@allyroo432]

I think many of us made some of these mistakes. It's okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. I think most people start from a place of fear and evolve into a lifestyle. Teaching our Children is important, but I learned you have to wait until they are ready. My husband and kids thought I was crazy at first, and now they are asking questions, have bug out bags, and are learning about water preservation. This video reminds me I need to buy more chocolate! Thanks for the video!

[@James-ke5sx]

Took about 3 years and I put together all the prepper gear I need. I learned how to stock food from working for families from 3rd world countries.

[@jackpinesavage1628]

Good ideas, folks. I'm becoming more forgetful as I get older too. It's easier to go to the hardware store for a tool than to search for it at home. It's won't be long before I'll need a name tag when I go out in public by myself. One thing I don't see mentioned much in prepper channels is having a good quality Whirlpool air filter in the house. It helps when wind sends smoke down the wood stove chimney without having to open a window. An air filter machine can also help if smoke from a forest fire doesn't threaten an evacuation, yet, the smoke is finding it's way into the house. At one time, I started to make hard tack for long term storage until I discovered my wife won't eat it. I don't use multi-tools that many prepper channels advocate. At one time I thought I could never have enough ammunition. I decided to limit the amount of ammunition to provide the means to stay within the season game limits and my longevity. I'll go when He takes me, right? At one time I thought I could never have enough food put back. I decided to limit the amount of food to what I can store in my attic in one gallon-sized Mylar bags or freeze-dried meals packed in galvanized metal garbage cans. No food will be buried in the ground or kept outside. I want my stored food inside the house where my three cats can provide guard duty. It cost a bit, yet, I now have to means to supply water from my well via a hand pump if the power never comes back on. I'll use our canvas tent (instead of a nylon tent) if we have to evacuate to a campground during a forest fire.

[@midgeb.2863]

I would think the attic in the summer would be to hot, and decrease the longevity of the food? Of course, I have moisture issues or circulation air issue, but I have that figured into my food plan ( I know my 30 year longevity food will probably only be good for 15- 20 years). Maybe you know this also. We store food to be prepared, but reality in a bug in decision, is finding the perfect spaces in our homes don't always exist or are limited! So i do what I do.

[@naomisims7230]

Another good, light item to add to the bug out bag...a N95 mask (if you can find one).

[@MattrixNY]

I watch ALOT of prepping videos and this is one of the BEST and most informative summary type videos that I have seen. This is a great starting point for anyone considering stepping into the prepping world. I suggest everyone become a prepper! All prepping really is, is survival.

[@blissfulacresoffgridhomest2098]

We live in the desert and are fortunate to have a well on the property which is great. We use the generator to pump our water. Light bulb moment came when I realized what happens if I don't have gas or propane to pump water? Needless to say, in a few weeks we will have a solar water pump! Super expensive outlay to live off grid. We have done a lot in the almost three years we have been here and have so much more to do!

[@blissfulacresoffgridhomest2098]

@@TheProvidentPrepper wow! Thank you!!! We are working on it. So much more to do!

[@easttennesseeexpat7545]

2020 Inventory: To my shock and dismay, I owned 6 lbs of dry Lima beans! I hate them with my heart & soul and cannot guess how I got them. Eating them was part of the 2020 experience. Thank God that is behind us now! It is hard to express my appreciation for your shared wisdom. I am an old Scrooge who is quite thankful!

[@louisevisser89]

Thank you Noted. Please consider the following: Hygiene for woman - please I never want to - boiling cotton sanitary ware. Storing food - the bags you vacuum for clothes - the small ones work well for pasta. I missed water filtration for a family, as I am alone I thought only of myself. You truly made me rethink.

[@wendyfoster5579]

We moved to our ranch a few months ago to practice living with less and practice our preparedness skills. Wow we have been shocked what we thought would be a good option. I thought we would be able to use the solar oven year round as long as we had sun but they just don’t work well in Idaho with the sun so low. Glad it wasn’t our only options and am cooking with options that are better for winter. When we need to live this way it will be second nature. I am keeping meticulous notes and emailing friends what we find works and what doesn’t b

[@HavaWM]

I know this is an older video, but I just had to say hi! I live on a farm in southern Idaho. We have a solar oven, but I’ve never actually cooked with it. It’s good to know that the sun low in the sky will keep it from working during the winter. I’ll try it this summer and learn from it then. ❤️ Anyway, howdy from a fellow Idahoan!

[@carolynsteele5116]

Such a great subject. I have made most of the mistakes..ha. My biggest flop is getting caught up in prepping for the apocalypse instead of the most likely disaster situations. Thankfully we were encouraged to do a power down trial, which I thought ridiculous since we're so well prepared. Well...it was a good thing, because all three propane camp stoves (purchased at garage sales and sitting on the shelf untested) had flaws that made them useless. The stench of scented candles almost drove us out of the house, and still provided only minimal light. What we needed most were things to make life's simpler NOW...like cash, cell phone chargers, a quick easy power source, gas in the car, strong lanterns, and something fun to pass the time. Being without internet made life the hardest! We wished we had downloaded more movies and music.

[@hasdrubal121]

I failed to brief my wife on OPSEC, fortunately she discussed my mindset at her work. Many miles away from home. When she mentioned it to me I had to brief her on the importance of OPSEC. I even included family in this need to know info. I dont mind having a chat, provided my family doesn't become a target or an object of ridicule. I'd rather we were known as Gardner's and when close family show up we can help them. That way they won't shout from rooftops how stupid we are for preparing and bringing all their friends when things go south. Thanks for sharing

[@naomisims7230]

Reading about foreigners who have experienced war & what to do & not to do is VERY enlightening too.

[@TXRFA]

I applaud your efforts with this video. Your comments about our need to filter the information we receive is of central importance. Well-meaning people, videos, and books written by preppers, and even government agencies, often regurgitate old information that either doesn't work in the real world or is no longer valid. Check your sources, and look for validation from seasoned experts, not enthusiastic or charismatic KZbinrs. The main pitfall I observe among my students is that they prepare in areas that pique their interest, rather than develop well-rounded, comprehensive preparations. As pointed out in this video, it's better to start with everything you will need to live life, on your own for two weeks, without power and tap water, without shopping and outside assistance. Then, move on to 1-month, then 2-months, etc. Balance is key. Even if you have a garden, you will need to plan for a diet that is nutritionally balanced. And, don't forget to plan for crop failure, too. Getting prepared is a daunting task. It's easy to become overwhelmed, or get stuck in a loop of endless thinking and talking, rather than doing. As they said in this video, pace yourself; plan your steps. Develop a plan. And, seek balance in your preparations. Don't work on collecting a year of food, and then work on water, followed by security, etc. In each goal (2-weeks, 1-month, etc.), work on the most important, first. 1. Immediate security/safety/emergency medical care, 2. pure water, 3. shelter from the elements, then 4. food. You can live for 3-4 weeks on almost no food, but only three days without water. Having a thriving garden is wonderful, but if you can't prevent theft, you're just feeding the local gangs. The comments in the video on operational security need to be taken seriously. Don't just prepare to shelter in place. Have an evacuation plan with a thoughtfully selected destination in mind, that you've prepared in advance. Don't just get ready to get out of town, prepare to travel *to* your safe-haven. Getting out early solves a multitude of problems. The short story, "Ready to Roll" by David Crawford (better known for his book, "Lights Out") is a powerful reminder of the importance of early evacuation. Get out quickly, as soon as you discern that the situation has the potential to be a major problem. Community is important, but prepare as if you will be on your own. And as they said in this video, practice.

[@notyoung]

The handicap/elderly "bedside commode chair" (often at zero cost in the Free section of Craig's List) might be a good "seat" for a bucket toilet. You have arm rests for easy up/down and the legs prevent knocking over the bucket. Some of those chairs fold flat to need almost no storage space. We're 700 feet vertically and several miles horizontally from the County waste treatment plant. If they closed down, we could still flush (gray water from washing hands/clothes) but people at the bottom of the hill might not be happy when things started backing up... Although some filters are better than others, the best water filter may the one you have when you need it. I don't see an immediate need for the stacked brick rocket stove, but I did stack it and light a fire in it so I'd know how when/if needed. As a former technical trainer, I'm very aware of the value of education - including for me ;-) When a small UPS needed an uncommon replacement AGM batttery ($50 plus tax and shipping?) I learned about using LiFePO4 cells and built my own replacement for less than $20 - it runs the UPS longer than the original battery and has 3 or 4 times the cycle life. I'm not likely to need to replace that battery again.

[@LeeEngle]

Gosh I love y'all. Nice to hear someone else chat on my topics - why buy something to trade for something you didn't get when you had the chance - focus on needs, not on barter items; and second - sanitation was the major killer on earth until modern times - avoid disease.

[@easttennesseeexpat7545]

About the time this video was posted, I did a situation evaluation and determined, "the crisis for which I prepared is not coming." And in short order, the crisis did come. As idiotic as my conclusion may seem, it turned out well. I spent ~9 months studying how to make my staples taste better. When the fit hit the Shan, I was a great deal better prepared than I had been a year earlier.

[@edbuyers]

Excellent video. Hit all of the areas that we all have made mistakes. QOTD = One of the mistakes is not adding in common sense to prepping. In part listening to the doomsday scenarios and not looking at history and what has happen in the past that could happen today. I am planning for a grid down scenario that I think will cover most of the situations. I have also made a time table for each disaster and what I would have time to do and a plan of action. Waiting for your next common sense applications to prepping. THANKS

[@blissfulacresoffgridhomest2098]

My freeze food dryer is packed in its box in the garage. We bought it a few months before we bought our off grid property. Can't use the generator for up to 30 hours and not enough solar power for the house and freeze food dryer. 5Try blueberries for an amazing treat! My son loved Mom'S clam chowder and chili when he was missing his momma. Drives me crazy not having a way to use it especially now with the food shortages.

[@naomisims7230]

You can use your oven to dehydrate foods...if it is a gas stove. Also, you can dehydrate foods the VERY old fashion way...As a kid, I caught my granny stepping out the backdoor, swinging a white pillowcase tied in a knot at the opened end. She suddenly flung it onto the house roof top! I said, "Granny! WHAT are you DOING?" She said, "Dryin' some peaches!". You have to watch what the weather is going to do (hard, I know), but if you can catch 3-4 days of hot, dry sun beating down, you can cut up fruit into small bites & dry them this way. (Humidity is the enemy in doing it this way, & of course, you'll have to have a ladder & no fear of heights)

[@grannyprepper7788]

I love lima beans. Lol. I have a very close friend that I slowly started talking to about prepping. When she saw "some" of our preps she said "I'll just come to your house" I quickly informed her that's NOT an option. Now that she's learned a few things, she wants to move off grid. She thinks she's Rambo I guess, lol.

[@ElaHumanRightLawyer]

What the heck how can people be so cheeky. It's one thing to say "I'll prep fully as well and we can perhaps combine forces and live together if needed to maximize our chances of survival" but not just "oh I'll just come over and eat all you got"

[@naomisims7230]

@@ElaHumanRightLawyer Anyone teaming up with me would have to live up to set standards, known to be a person of honor, willing to pull their own weight...No work, no food! Crazy people will go to the stockade! No time for coddling. We all will have to toughen up, mind, body, & soul. Many things to think about when allowing others into your group/life in hard times. It will be the wild west again...oh...maybe that's already where we are...

[@MrChaes]

one area I have just begun to explore is harvesting and preparing edible and medicinal plants in my area. it's amazing how much is around if you know where to look.

[@ingrid327ekman4]

Like wise I have self educated on wild edibles and especially medicinals. Good for you! I don't think there are many of us that eather have the time or inclination to.

[@naomisims7230]

@@ingrid327ekman4 Recently have begun thinking about these too! Just ordered "Texas Wild Edible Plants". Being a country gal, I already know some. I'm a retired nurse, & anyone with these skills would be a valuable asset to themselves & others. It will get me back out of the house, the doldrums, & into the woods again! (I will NOT forget the bug spray! I will NOT forget the bug spray!......Repeat)

[@roberthicks5454]

Another point on seeds is make sure they are for the right area. Just because you can buy onions in your area does not mean they will grow there. I started trying to grow a garden 9 years ago. It took until last January to finally get an in door started garden (at least a small one) to harvest

[@wval4379]

I found you through a recommendation from Prepper Potpourri. Good info on mistakes to avoid.

[@mikeconley9590]

I did my first batch in my new hr freeze dryer last week. I did salmon, tuna, peas, and corn. Came out perfectly. Doing smoked and sliced London broils, shrimp, ground beef now. It took 3 years , but my non prepper family chipped in and bought a medium freeze dryer (just to shut me up I think) for my birthday. Anyhow.... good times.

[@mikeconley9590]

@@TheProvidentPrepper that's one of the few things I didn't plant this year. Im only on my second load right now. My goal is to get as much meat as possible for the first few months. After I have a decent amount stored ill try everything that has potential. The salmon and tuna , I tried right awat when i was packing them in mylar. It was surprisingly delicious, even though I didn't rehydrate it.

[@blissfulacresoffgridhomest2098]

I am so envious! My freeze food dryer is packed in its box in the garage. We bought it a few months before we bought our off grid property. Can't use the generator for up to 30 hours and not enough solar power for the house and freeze food dryer. Congrats and have fun. Try blueberries for an amazing treat! My son loved Mom'S clam chowder and chili when he was missing his momma.

[@blissfulacresoffgridhomest2098]

When my husband got hurt I realized how unprepared I was. Suddenly not only did I have my regular workload but now I also had to take over what Rob normally did. So today I can at least turn on/off the generator and adjust the solar panels.

[@mauryhill9703]

Good idea!!!

[@humbleevidenceaccepter7712]

I realized recently that I am the only one who knows what all the switches, dials and wires do on our set up. I put together a 3-ring binder with notes, wiring diagrams, owner's manuals, etc., so my wife, adult children, or even the next owner, knows how the stuff works.

[@nc8524]

thank you for caring so much for people that you go out on a limb to provide this valuable resource at your expense. I've found very useful info here. I'm very much a rookie, small apt in city and limited in storing much...but I need a place to start...a few months will be very helpful. There's so much I don't know how to DIY. Thanks for the practical advice. Hope you all stay safe. :)

[@estherstone4860]

My husband and I are planning on have a dry run on our stores and equipment. Hopefully we will discover most of our shortfalls.

[@naomisims7230]

Sooo smart! Dry runs show you what you missed thinking about.

[@titanpreparedness]

I have made a few of these mistakes as well. Good to learn before wasiting time and money on useless stuff

[@lilliearmstronh7827]

Thank you guys so much I have started storage my food in jar will it last will you guys let me know this is my first time love you guys

[@devinhinkson3798]

I broke #8 became a prepper addict to your channel! 🤪

[@wholelatafamily2989]

Thank you for this video, honestly helped me take a breath. I have anxiety and adhd, so my brain can take something and run down the rabbit hole. This helped to remind me live life while planning for the future. Really love you guys videos thanks for all you do.

[@denisedevaughn544]

I bought a tent the night I was going on a camping trip. Sure enough I got to the site in a rain storm and the tent was defective. I was stupid back then. Now I winter camp solo. Many great points on this

[@whisperingsage]

I have been using the toilet bucket since 1988, it is a way of life and I've never tipped it over. Look up the Humanure handbook. We can build a nice holder for nthe bucket, but we have no room currently.

[@jennifer86010]

17:46 Regarding firearms: Make sure you store a pair of (28 dB or greater) ear plugs with every single weapon you own. In emergencies, people may grab a gun but forget to quickly put ear plugs in their ears. IF YOU SHOOT A FIREARM WITHOUT HEARING PROTECTION YOU WILL DAMAGE YOUR HEARING PERMANENTLY. YOUR HEARING LOSS MAY RANGE FROM MILD TO MODERATE TO SEVERE PERMANENT HEARING LOSS. DO NOT GO THROUGH LIFE DEAF OR SUFFERING FROM HORRIBLE TINNITUS (CONSTANT RINGING IN YOUR EARS) KEEP QUALITY EAR PLUGS NEAR EVERY WEAPON YOU OWN.

[@spacecadet2780]

great point, I'd never heard that before. Thanks for mentioning.

[@jdsheleg8332]

You can shoot a gun without permanent damage. You get damage when is an extremely loud noise or constant high noise. Hearing a loud bang will not hurt you as much as that constant loud machinery.

[@jennifer86010]

@@jdsheleg8332 Thank You Doctor Josue Nieves. I'm sure that the thousands of people who are partially deaf due to gunshots will not agree with you, but what do they know? After all, they are the stupid fools who fired their guns without hearing protection.

[@jennifer86010]

@@jdsheleg8332 WARNING: Josue Nieves is NOT a doctor. He is NOT a physician and he is certainly NOT an Otolarynologist. His comments are based on his personal anecdotal experiences, not on scientific facts which apply to all people. Permanent hearing loss can occur from a single loud blast or gunshot, depending on the person and the circumstances. Always follow hearing protection rules when using firearms. If you have questions, don't ask Josue Nieves. Ask your doctor about what course of action is safest to protect your hearing. You only have one set of ears for your entire lifetime. Don't gamble with their safety.

[@laszlovass4654]

Since there have been many catastrophes, wars, invasions (literally) and economic collapses (etc.) here since 1990, we, Central-Eastern-Europeans have lots of experiences: In fact, during SHTF situations the main problematic period is usually no more than 3-4 days long. This is why 72-hour packages are widespread in European countries, and in some countries (Switzerland, Sweden, Czech Republic) in principle, it must be kept at home; but it is also recommended in other countries (eg. Hungary, Slowakia, Poland, and so on). Longer-term disasters need to be addressed at community level, so community building is more important, than obtain a BOB. This is the MAIN preppers' FAIL. I understand this rambo/western-based mania about lonely survival on the prairie/forest, but after a real SHTF, actually The Survival means hoeing, carpentry, whitewashing and removal of ruins, not bushcraft in a deserted forest. So instead of BOB, you should get Get Home Bag, lots of disinfectants in the garage, and a small cultivated vegetable garden at the back instead of grassy yard with pool. I have no idea what 'murican preppers think where and when they live... Even in the center of a greatest shit happended around me (except for the Yugoslav civil war), international help came in max 3-5 days. This is the 21st century, every bigger country (and many of smaller ones) has disaster response teams, mobile hospitals, that can be packed on aircrafts or ships. In practice, not only local but also German, Czech, Hungarian, Swedish, Russian, Japanese and even Ukrainian rescue teams worked in Italy during an earthquake.

[@laszlovass4654]

@@TheProvidentPrepper it would be good to make a video on this topoc once, but my english is not flawless

[@laszlovass4654]

@@TheProvidentPrepper A few additional information (based on real SHTF situations of South-East Europe): #1: According to the balkan experience: a good MTB is the best prepper vehicle. 0 gallons / mile, easy to hide and you can carry it through the ruins & rivers. #2: Gadgets? Sorry, no one need any other expensive "titanium-framed NASA flashlight" nor "Uncle Sam's super-lethal double barrelled killing-gun" but a hoe, a scythe, a lot of nails and a hammer. Boring, I know. AND: I've never seen a shortage of clothes, but Toilet Paper scarcity is common problem during SHTF! Minimum half month reserve! Epidemic has never erupted in such places due to corpses, but there were a lots of problems caused by materials leaked from the sewage system. Disinfectants for every prepper! #3: During every SHTF i've seen the water shortage was much bigger problem than the food. I know one croatian guy who has lived for 1 year on oak acorns and rice and on anything he has just found in the town he lived without starving. So don't overdo food topic. Never forget: water scarcity will be your main concern (and the heat needed for cooking). Important: Fat ones will get ready sooner: their bodies also need more water. [lots of wild plants are edible and snails and earthworms are not so bad... ok, they have a terrible taste, but there are plenty of them] #4: I have never seen any SHTF situation in Europe (including wars and economic collapses) when government and law have completely disappeared. Even where the state ceased to operate, local governments were still in operation. Villages, towns run by local police and civilians, while in cities the MP was present. Public security was less bad here than in the US during a blackout (under real SHTF, the character of a violent robber-campaign comes out less, 'cause even criminals were afraid of their safety... i sure there are some psychology behind it). #5: Bug in / bug out? None of them. As I wrote: SHTF is not survival on the prairie/forest NOR in a fortified mini-Alamo. Reality is not an action movie. In addition to basic tools, first aid kits, a few weeks of supplies, cleaning materials (much more toilet paper than you think) you really NEED a lot of KNOWLEDGE: Agriculture, carpentry, first aid, basic psychology, maintain of electricity and water supply. And it is good to learn a few foreign languages (besides my mother language I learned English, German and now I want to start a Slavic language), every language you can use in communication during a disaster situation can be life-saving. For a USA citizen the minimum requirement is Spanish, French (@north) and a few words in Chinese. It is not a question of national egoism, but of practicality. I can speak 1-2 sentences in the language of ALL neighboring countries (Rumanian, Serbian, Slovak, German, etc.). #6: I saw knife attacks. You have no chance to take your gun, handle safeties and aim the pistol against a knife attack even from a distance of 10-15meters (11-16yards) if your opponent is a bit experienced. AND even if you as fast as Wild Bill Hickok 1-3 hits can't guarantee that the knife won't kill you, the Stop-effect is too mystified. AK-47? M1911? Tokarev? Does not matter, you are just avenging yourself even at best. (power of inertia: by the time you shoot at man he already have too much momentum) Lots of stabbed bodies laid in the Balkans with unfired guns in their cool hands. A working self-defense method must be learned (krav maga, hapkido, and so on).

[@laszlovass4654]

@@TheProvidentPrepper if you have a good garden and the tools to cultivate it, you won't have to eat beetles. So (for me) gardening is a very important basic skill. my tomatoes and peppers are still pretty good, but I have herbs, like Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) and aloe. This amount does not require more than 5-10 minutes a day, but it provides cheap and healthy food, and in the case of shit (with some reserves) it is enough. Reserves: potatoes are the most important, I have 1 sack of it always, a few kgs of rice, my favorite canned foods (rotation), vinegar, sugar, and salt. This pack with my own produce and a few wild plants will be serious dieting, but enough. (it all my "ration" fits in the bottom half of a small cupboard and no more than $20). In the other hand very fine wild plants grow in this part of Europe. e.g. wild garlic (Allium ursinum, good as spice), white clove (Trifolium repens, good even for cookies), common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale, ideal for sour flavored salads) and Common sorrel (better than spinach), and so on. So a lot depends on the geography of the place: obviously there are places where you simply can't live like that. (e.g. I live near a big river that is full of fish and it's water much cleaner than the rivers in the usa)

[@mauryhill9703]

László Vass excellent ideas! Thanks. I especially liked knowing a few sentences in other languages. If we are faced with people who potentially mean you harm, quickly shouting over your shoulder in Russian or Mandarin, “Attackers, mobilize secure positions. Come, Hercules, Come, Snarly...”. I imagine visitors would retreat pretty quickly! They may not have a clue what you said, but they will probably realize you spoke in Russia or Chinese and called dogs.

[@mauryhill9703]

László Vass I also thought your idea of fighting with a knife instead of a gun was spot on! First, who will expect a woman of being able to throw a debilitating or killing knife attack from a range of 20’? Second, practicing with a gun requires going to a range, not to mention there’s a paper trail that you own and is expensive to arm. Plus I can practice at home on my huge acreage without my nearest neighbor hearing!

[@rainidepalma4786]

Wow 🤩 you and your family are so amazing! Thanks for the helpful tips 💓 good to see someone teaching their fam valuable skills

[@HavaWM]

Hi! I’ve been watching your channel off and on for several years now. I just wanted to say that I really agree with the trial runs. I thought I had plenty of light for power outages during the winter, but did a trial run and realized I didn’t have nearly enough light. So I bought some more lanterns and lights and rechargeable batteries, and did the trial run again. I found I *still* didn’t have enough light! I’ve been repeating this, making changes and getting supplies as I needed until now, I have three portable solar batteries + two solar panels + lots of light options and rechargeable batteries (along with fans and other rechargeable devices). It wouldn’t be fun, but I could make it if the power went out for two weeks. Longer, probably, but I really wouldn’t want to! 😝

[@HavaWM]

@@TheProvidentPrepper - thank you!! ❤️❤️ We live on a farm with a 300-ft well, so if the power went out, we’d have to recharge our Bluetti (we call it Mr Blue) when the sun was shining and then carry it down into the pump house and run the well pump while we did everything in the house (washed dishes, took cold showers, etc). Then carry it back upstairs and recharge. Meanwhile, the other two larger batteries could recharge electronic devices, run my father’s CPAP, run the freezer and/or fridge for a few hours each day, etc. Heat comes from a wood stove; we cook on a propane range that can be lit manually if necessary. I think it’d honestly be a full-time job doing nothing but recharging batteries and running all of them every which way throughout the day, but if the power went out, it would be survivable. Being able to produce our own power was a BIG gap in our resilience for a long time, so finally getting these solar panels and batteries in place was a big achievement. Someday, I’d love a whole house solar system + electric car, but it’ll be a while before we get to that point. ❤️❤️

[@lenald6618]

Oh my goodness! I have a problem! One thing I wish I didn’t do was buying all kinds of cheap single use item at the beginning. Buy multiple use item that are quality.

[@MarkFaust]

Not sure if this puts me in the mistake section, but I think prepping almost always.

[@chevalvivant]

Just found you, both of you are so informative and instructive, love your interaction and comments about chocolate! Good, loving people, thank you so much for the time and effort of these excellent videos, and sharing your experiences! Take care and love to you both!

[@crispusattucks4007]

Wow... this is a great video for seasoned preppers too

[@mamakat4308]

I love your tips and tricks :-) common sense for normal people :-) I especially like your disaster binder I'm going to create one for my family thank you for the idea. About a year ago I got thinking about earthquakes I live on the Central Coast in California. San Andreas Fault. We're near a power plant. And I take care of adults with mental and physical disabilities. These are the things I'm preparing for, these are my loved ones.

[@michaelwier1222]

New subscriber here. I disagree with #4, fear should be used as a motivator. But use a thoughtful and logical mind to deal with that fear. Be proactive and not reactive. Good video, thank you. God bless

[@1955RKE]

Good advice. I just started prepping less than a week ago. I want to buildup at least a three week working pantry. This is all due to the Corona Virus and the threat of store shelves made bare. I must have watched about fifty KZbin videos already! I don't want to make mistakes, like buying a fifty pound bag of oatmeal because it was at a good price and taking about a year to eat it all! Been there, done that!

[@jacquesdumas8682]

Excellent! Thank you very much. Looking forward to the next video.

[@petermccracken2247]

I Strongly Believe in Provident Living, Great Video, I will check out you other video's .

[@alh.6731]

Thank you so much! Your videos are helping me and my girlfriend have peace of mind and have 'hunger insurance'

[@kellobyte1]

Since you guys brought up carbon monoxide detectors can you do a video on them specifically? Why to have them, where to install them, when and how to test them, what to do if they go off, etc.

[@ericwitt4586]

Me and my wife are the only ones that are involved in preparing for the bad times I don’t do it for one problem I try to cover it all including unemployment I’ve got a blend of mres and beans and rice and noodles and canned goods and others popular buckets too it’s hard to think about telling your family you don’t have food for them when you have been the fixer of problems for all of them!

[@buddhistbushcrafter4589]

I bought a lot of gear at first that I didn't know how to use, but I'm not sorry. It has prompted me to learn and practice. Skills are the best gear!

[@naomisims7230]

So true...& practicing them!

[@frankbush333]

oils don't last nearly as long as shortening, fats are the hardest long term storage.

[@naomisims7230]

After you get solar/wind, the "catch" seems to be that if you have to start using electricity again (because solar/wind fails), you get horrendously high electric bills. (Texan in the 2021 freeze that made it anyway due to (30) 7-day candles!)

[@NewHampshireJack]

We believe the biggest mistake is never getting started. I saw it in the aftermath of serious ice and snow storms in the north east US when roads were impassable and there was no electricity to run the nice modern propane and oil fired heaters in the lakefront homes near my cabin. I now see it here in the Philippines. We can expect some flooding about every third year during typhoon season. You KNOW it will happen, if not this year, probably next year. It is part of the normal cycle. Thinking people would expect that folks might at least put away enough for two weeks or more. All too often we see that deer in the headlight look and those who did make it will say, "I really did not think it could be this serious." We do understand it is difficult for those who barely earn enough for one days rice to put away extra. Stiil, it is hurtful to see folks hunker down with zero supplies in the direct path of a storm as if they could wish it away. It will not be an easy task to motivate folks in poor economic circumstances to build an emergency stash. Perhaps, as our Phil economy continues it's run maybe this will change? If one person can inspire two and the two inspire four, who knows, maybe there will be a new trend? I have to ask, what do you feed Sam? My first guess is A LOT !!!

[@donnagrifford7142]

Fantastic Information! 👏👏👏💕

[@KalpeshPatel78]

Hoarding of stuff (@4:50) is good if you know how to use that stuff. Like I see a lot of uses for that cardboard. (used as tinder to start a fire. String from that lamp can be used at a fishing spot. Wires from the bicycle tyres can be used in traps (or use the bicycle as a whole when gas runs out at the pumps. Old Plastic bottles, containers can become water collectors on the roof etc etc. People will have to be innovative when it comes to using hoarded stuff.

[@KalpeshPatel78]

One more thing people underestimate is power / electricity etc. Keep backups of backups of backups. If you can't see what you're doing in the dark. There's no point of all that prepping. Mechanical flashlights, solar lamps, solar power charger etc etc. All needs to be tried and tested.

[@naomisims7230]

@@KalpeshPatel78 The truth is that solar just isn't powerful enough yet & too expensive at this point. Also, it's hard to find the sun to recharge in an ice or thunderstorm that lasts a week. They need to add a crank style recharging system too...one where we could recharge a solar generator by stationary bike pedaling when there's no sun. This same problem goes for electric cars too.

[@KalpeshPatel78]

@@naomisims7230 My entire farm is solar back in India. Not even connected to the Grid. Naomi your information is outdated. Solar is very very efficient. What you're talking about is location. If you live in areas that have frequent showers and 7 months of rains... ofcourse you have to be smart and switch to wind power and not use solar. Where I live, we have sunlight for nearly 7 months of the year. Good enough to run a whole farm only on solar. Read more about solar. Its far from what you think it is.

[@naomisims7230]

@@KalpeshPatel78 Yea, we in Tx know about wind power when they all froze & broke during the ice storm recently. My apt complex WAS run on totally solar until the ice storm covered the sun for days. We had no power for 4 days... until we were hooked back up to electricity again. In the mean time, people froze to death in the 0 & lower temps. I stand by my claim. Hope you don't have to go thru what we did.

[@KalpeshPatel78]

@@naomisims7230 That's because the stuff you had wasn't upgraded to withstand Ice and snow. You can't blame the incompetence of your Government on technology. Please. Do read up. Your govt needs to upgrade and tweak Windmills to withstand snow and ice.

[@valerieannrumpf4151]

Govt emergency pamphlets are generalized, just use them as a basic guide.

[@sarahkirbach5040]

I'm very thankful to come across your channel. Very good info. I'm not to preparedness and I've learned quite a bit from you guys and others already. Thanks so much!

[@bunchofbelievers]

Thank you very much for this video I wish it was their back 15 to 20 years ago I have watched it then I knew your channel thank you for having me here

[@maryjanegreen7601]

Love the binder!

[@calvinbowling9579]

I was guilty of #7 and learned a lot recently. I've made nearly all the rookie mistakes in the video. My prepping began in the late 80's when I was having a hard time. I raised meat rabbits, some gardening and even washed clothes in a bucket and hung dried. After that short period, I learned to prepare. To minimize mistakes, one must live the experience on at least an annual basis. Skills will fade if not kept honed, just like a plastic container of supplies needs to be periodically opened and inspected.

[@effeojnedib7208]

I work at a water treatment facility. Concentrated sodium hypochlorite is some bad stuff ! It destroys everything over time. PVC and glue, not to mention metals.

[@themadcountrywoodsman.7101]

been working on this subject for a long time. grate idea to remember the basics. techniques change rules change. (awesome) Pride rookie mistake. the basics don't really change to much. they are forgotten.

[@MalikaBourne]

Hey, you 2 Provident Preppers, How have I missed this video? It is a gem. I've been putting food by for some time - it's a long-time habit, yet, no, I'm not a perfect prepper. Thus, your video has been a great checklist. I had learned a lot of alternative toileting from my daughter, an Iraqi war vet.

[@daveclarke1466]

New Subscriber very interesting video, surly makes one think about how your going about preparing. Thanks

[@coreydarr8464]

Good teachings!🙂

[@elizabethnewton2556]

I am a rooky for sure. I keep listening, and keep learning. Steps 1,2,3 is where I am.🙂

[@bc24roxy4]

Have you seen my house??? I am laughing right now. So guilty! I got 2 rain barrels about 2 months ago and they still are not set up. Just had a tree cut down that was in the way of one of my downspouts and now i have build something to put the barrel on and then the other one.

[@jeffreyrodgers2881]

I really enjoy the Provident Prepper. Great job :)

[@ontariohomestead7135]

How did I not find you until today thanks for sharing the I info to the uninformed I subbed

[@theresas.5806]

This is great - the info is very good and your both funny! Thx

[@freddiecruz2670]

Thank you for such a great video!

[@daisycofresi7252]

Glad to see you. How to learn canning and saving water. Please.

[@62CHRIS99]

Good information great job!! The truth about prepping learn some skills you can put food back but if something happens where you don't have it you will die slow so learn to survive with nothing just like our ancestors did it not that hard

[@whisperingsage]

Salmon for the cats? I bet they loved that!

[@rueruelarue3010]

Another awesome, informative video my dear friends, I hope that all is well for you and yours.

[@TUKByV]

Biggest mistake was not buying land in an area with lower population density when I first thought of it.

[@ds285676]

every prepper needs to built his her home to work for them. everyone has different natural sources. custom for all people.

[@lv2224]

Thank You for putting this info out!!!

[@m.jenkins8503]

Add more details about proper method to store for food and water. This video open my eyes.

[@PrepperPotpourri]

This is an excellent video! Like you, I want to encourage others to prep so I often forgo my own operational security.

[@lisaskipper7967]

New to the channel and to emergency preparedness. I was wondering if you could do a video on how to prep or ideas to help with prepping with small babies in the family. since they grow so fast just wondering the best way to prep with them in mind. thank you.

[@rosemarywilliams9969]

😱 I may have a problem...

[@Hockeybroski]

Thank you

[@baddog9320]

The best MRE are infact stables. Like flour, beans, whole grains. Dry your own fruits, vegetable and meats. I wish many years ago I knew how easy it was to dry goods. And I'm not talking dehydrator. But good old fashion solar like our ancestors did. We made doing this a lot harder then it is. Also you can dry frozen fruits and vegetables from the store. I can take frozen vegetables. Set in a rack outside. And 3 days later it ready for storage. Meats cook until done. Then rack and let dry for 5 days. Fruits same as vegetables. To rehydrate. Just put in water for an hour. Or just simple put in the meal at the beganing of cooking. A simple meal. 1 serving of dried meat. Put in 2.5 cups of water. Being to boil. Add 1 cup of rice. Add seasoning or broth if you wish. Cook at boil for 15 minutes stiring often after 10 minutes. Done. Ready to eat You can also add vegetables Replace or add cooked beans. You can add fruit. Really is 15 minutes a lot of time? Well then do the samething. Except add canning it in Mason jars. Then its ready to eat. Right out of jar if you wish. You can also do this with a solar oven during the warm months. Yes I must bust the myth. Solor oven work a lot less during the cold months, to not at all. But during cold months you should have a fire going. So stick a pot of beans on all the time. Adding water when needed. Or just simply warm / cook on the fire. When I say fire. I fell everyone should own a wood burning stove. Not to be confused with a wood oven. I would love to have a wood burning oven. But they are very expensive. Plus they are designed just for cooking. So heating is minimal. But a wood stove also heats. Yoy can use the stove part. And you can make a oven for the stove, or use a Dutch oven with it. BTW a Dutch oven can be used both on top and inside a wood burning stove.

[@bcarss1970]

I have 3 water barrels that need to be filled. Thanks for reminding me. I am doing it this weekend! One problem I have with rotating some food is that I don't eat them often because they are high in carbs and preservatives that I don't eat regularly. Lima beans are disgusting. You are right with skills, skills, and more skills. Fuel, fuel, and more foil. As much as you can safely store. Gas, Kerosene/Diesel, and LPG. Split firewood too. Another great vid.

[@maryjanegreen7601]

Why do lima beans even exist?

[@timk8830]

Sanitation should be number #1. Most death's and sickness's after a disaster is usually from bad sanitation.

[@kindnessconnection6836]

Thanks for all the information! God bless you!!!!!