Preparedness Pantry - Food Storage, Emergency Preparedness, Emergency Kits, Water Storage

Weekly Wednesday Giveaway: Whole Egg Powder

2012-02-01T18:04:00.003-07:00

Its time for our weekly giveaway! This week, we are giving away a can of Provident Pantry Whole Egg Powder!

Whole Egg Powder is great! It is 100% Eggs, no other additives, and can be used in any way you use regular eggs.

To enter, just answer the question in the form below! Be sure to leave your name and current email address (we will never sell your information, the email address is just so we can contact you). Also, be sure to add social@beprepared.com to your contacts list; otherwise, you might win, but our email tell you that you won will go to your spam folder and you will miss out!

To help you find the answer to this weeks question, Click Here!

All entries received through Wednesday, February 8th will be entered into the drawing. The winner will be chosen at random and posted on the blog no later than Friday, February 10th.

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All entries will be verified. We welcome emails and entries from everyone; however, free shipping of the Weekly Wednesday Giveaway is included for the winner to the 48 contiguous United States only. For any locations outside this area, the winner is responsible for arranging and paying their own shipping costs. If you purchase a Weekly Wednesday Giveaway item during the giveaway and win, we will send you an additional item or issue you a refund for the product you purchased - whichever you prefer.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, twitter, or blogger.
Your entries are going to Emergency Essentials and not to Facebook, twitter, or blogger. Facebook, twitter, or blogger is in no way responsible for any part of this giveaway.

The winner will be contacted via email. If you are the winner and do not respond to our email within 3 business days, you will forfeit your right to the prize and another winner will be chosen.

The Great Utah Shake Out!

2012-02-01T11:24:00.001-07:00

Utah is about to make history by holding its largest earthquake drill ever! April 17th at 10:15 am MST will be the great Utah Shake Out! Over half a million people will be participating! Will you?

From the Deseret News Classroom Connections, January 24, 2012-

"What if you had a ticking time bomb, and no idea how much time was left? What would you do? You [would] prepare for the blast.

Running from Idaho to Central Utah, the Wasatch Fault has lain nearly dormant for years. Over the past few centuries, it has caused little more than a geologic hiccup or two. But science tells us the Wasatch Fault is overdue for a major earthquake. The devastation from a Magnitude 7 earthquake in Salt Lake County would mean thousands of deaths, tens of thousands of injuries and catastrophic interruption of our lives. Water, electricity and natural gas could be cut off for days or weeks. Mother nature has given us time to prepare. The time is now."

This is an exciting opportunity for people in the Utah area to prepare. But if you're not in Utah, don't feel left out. You should join us too! Maybe it's an earthquake, a wildfire, hurricane, or tornado. Whatever your disaster of choice, April 17th is a great day to practice what you, your family, company, etc. will do when it strikes.

Click here for our Official Guide for the April Shake Out, and check back here often as we talk about ways to get your house and family ready, and keep you up-to-date on all Shake Out related news.

Gamma Seal Giveaway Winner!

2012-01-30T11:50:00.001-07:00

As I have mentioned here before, we love Gamma Seal Lids! So to help spread the love, we gave away a Variety pack of Gamma Seal Lids valued at $52.50! It will look something like this:

Our Winner is Tessa, from Illinois . Congratulations!

Be sure to check back! We do a new giveaway the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.

Emergency Kit Video

2012-01-27T14:37:00.003-07:00

Check out our new video, all about our Emergency Kits.

Emergency Essentials® has been making Emergency Kits for over 24 years. Check out the video to learn some basics about why you would need an emergency kit (sometimes called a bug out bag or 72 hour kit), and some suggestions on the types of things to include.

Freeze-Dried Sweet Potatoes

2012-01-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

Freeze-Dried Sweet Potatoes are one of our group items this month. And man have we been having fun with them!

I personally am not a big fan of Sweet Potatoes, but our chefs found ways to sneak them into things without my even noticing.

DEVILED EGGS

6 large eggs hard boiled

3-4 Tblsp mayonaise

1 tsp mustard

1/4 C sweet potatoes hydrated and pureed

1/8 tsp salt

pepper and paprika to taste

Mash together and mix well. Fill eggs and serve.

Take your kids favorite box of Mac and Cheese, mix in 1 cup of rehydrated, pureed FD Sweet Potatoes, and viola! You have successfully fed your kids sweet potatoes.

GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH

2 slices of bread ( your choice)

1/2 C shredded cheese

1/2 C sweet potatoes hydrated and pureed

Mix together, should be thick. Spread on bread. Butter both sides of the outer slices of bread, and grill as normal.

CUPCAKES

1 bx yellow cake mix

1 C sweet potatoes hydrated and pureed

1/4 C water

2 Tblsp vegetable oil

2 large eggs

Blend together and put in cup cake pans lined with cupcake wrappers. Bake as instructed on cake mix.

You could also prepare them in a more traditional, Thanksgiving style. Just rehydrate and then use as you would regular Sweet Potatoes. Here are a bunch of other ideas, all of them delicious!

PANCAKES

1 C water

1/2 C sweet potatoes (hydrated and pureed)

1 C pancake mix

1 Tblsp vegetable oil

Mix ingredients and grill as normal.

OATMEAL

Hydrate and puree add to cooked oatmeal as per taste.

MEATLOAF

1/2 C hydrated and pureed, may leave chunky if preferred.

SOUPS AND STEWS

Add right out of can will hydrate while cooking.

To use as a thickening for soup or stew, hydrate, puree and blend with milk and cornstarch, and add to soup or stew, stir while thickening.

HOMEMADE KETCHUP

1 (6OZ) can tomato paste

1/2 c sweet potatoes hydrated and pureed

1/4 c water

2 Tblsp apple cider vinegar

2 cloves garlic minced

1 Tblsp firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 tsp dry mustard

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp ground all spice

1/4 tsp chili powder

Stir all ingredients together in a big sauce pan. Bring to a boil over med high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until mixture has reduced by about half (15-20 min). Let cool before serving. Refrigerate in air tight container for up to 5 days, or freeze in 1/4 cup amounts in zipper lock snack baggies, for up to 3 months.

BUTTERED NOODLES

8oz whole wheat pasta- any kind

1/2 C hydrated sweet potatoes, pureed

1/4 C skim milk

2 Tblsp margarine

2 Tblsp parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp salt

Cook pasta as directed on pkg, drain. Return pasta to pan stir in pureed sweet potatoes, milk,margarine and salt. Let thicken just a bit and serve. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top.

MARINARA SAUCE

add 1/2 C hydrated and pureed sweet potatoes to the sauce.

What other creative ways have you found to use our freeze-dried foods? Feel free to comment below! If you have photos to go along with your recipe, please send them to social@beprepared.com for a chance to be a guest blogger, and a $20 Gift card!!

Tips for Apple Chips

2012-01-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

Great in salads

"I add these to my coleslaw. They add a crunch and a wonderful sweet taste to the salad. Since I eat coleslaw instead of lettuce, I even add it to my sandwiches. It's great." --Diana, Texas

Great Value
"I ordered two cases of these when they went on sale. After receiving them, we opened a can to try them out. They are really good! My kids kept coming back for more. Soon after I went on line to order another case. Great alternative to popcorn for movie night." --Mrs. R, Washington

Fantastic Apple Chips!
"We decided to open a can to see if we liked them. These are fantastic! They are crisp, full of flavor and disappearing fast!" --Karla, Iowa

Gamma Seal Lids

2012-01-17T14:04:00.001-07:00

Food Grade buckets are a great method for food storage. They keep your food fresh, help you store in bulk, and can stack, making them more space-efficient. Here at Emergency Essentials®, we love food storage buckets.

What could make these great tools better? Short answer: Gamma Seal Lids

These lids simplify the entire process of using your food. Two rubber gaskets insure an air tight seal. The twist lock action makes it incredibly easy to open and close, getting access to your food. And they come in a variety of colors, allowing you to create a color-coded system for your storage.

Now these lids can be a bit tricky to get on the first time, so lets walk through what I think is the easiest way to get them on and working.

The first step will be to purchase a bucket and Gamma Seal Lid:

Got them.

The second step is to take the lid off of the adapter ring:

Righty tighty, lefty loosey

Next, get the adapter ring onto the bucket. This is the tricky part. I recommend that you place the bucket on the ground, then use your knees and hands to force it down. Really put your weight into it. You will hear the ring click into place once you're done:

This was a surprisingly difficult picture to take.

Then screw the lid on and you are ready to store:

What will you use a Gamma Seal lid for? Do you already have some? Sound off in the comments!

5 Tips to Help You Start Prepping

2012-01-16T14:37:00.001-07:00

Too many people make the mistake of thinking that emergencies only happen to "other folks". Beyond the subject of disasters, being prepared should be a part of your normal provident living.

Pictured: Provident living. Not as difficult as you think.

Don't become overwhelmed. Start with small goals and work consistently. Here are a few ideas to help you get started with your preparedness plan.

Establish a modest preparedness budget. Make it a priority and work at it the best you can. Start with a few items, such as a 72-hour kit, emergency candles, a sleeping bag, and a first aid kit. Then budget enough money monthly to keep adding to your stores of emergency supplies working toward being prepared truly brings peace of mind.
Get your information from reliable sources. Most sensible programs will coincide with other reputable sources such as books, community preparation and church or government programs. Don't let anyone scare you into thinking that it has to be done all at once or that you must incur heavy debt to achieve your goals.
That which would be required to sustain life for three days can be easily multiplied for planning tong-term storage needs.
Be consistent. Within a short time you will have the necessary supplies and equipment to take care of yourself, family members and others.
Think investment, not expense! Think practically when it comes to assembling a food storage program. Buy the basics and learn to use them. Buy foods that you can rotate and eat regularly instead of storing foods that are unknown to you and that you have never eaten. Buy emergency materials that can be used for other activities such as Scouting events, camping adventures and family road trips. Take care of what you purchase and learn not to waste. The point is, do something and do not procrastinate.

Whether or not we choose to believe that life is dynamic, changes and challenges will come to each of us. How we prepare today can help ensure that we experience a soft landing. Start with a simple plan and use wisdom as you implement that plan.

Sense of Security

2012-01-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

It is easy to feel safe and secure in our daily lives. It is easy to assume that nothing will ever happen, that disasters never occur where you live. We asked one of our Founders and Senior VPs to discuss why that mentality can be dangerous.

You can find this, and many other stories, tips, lists and ideas here:

On July 24th some time ago, I was in my office in Orem, UT when I received a phone call from a woman in Southern California. As we were talking, an earthquake shook her home, and she became very afraid. I did my best to instruct her. “Get under a doorway,” I said, trying to calm her.

When the quake ended, she ceased to panic, thanked me for my assistance and went to assess the damage. I sat back, took a deep breath, and mused about the singularity of the experience.

Within hours, one of my employees came into my office and told me that a customer had just experienced a flash flood in Phoenix, Arizona. The street where she lived had literally turned into a dangerous river. After the employee left, I pondered what I had experienced that day. A feeling of smug security came over me. I thought, How grateful I am to live in Orem, Utah where things like this rarely happen.

Within a few hours a policeman came to our corporate headquarters and told us that we would have to immediately evacuate the building. A nearby chemical plant had caught fire, and there was a possibility of an explosion taking place. When I arrived home, a short distance from my office, another police officer was informing our neighborhood that the area had become unsafe and that we may have to leave until the emergency was contained.

The lesson I learned that day has stuck with me over the years: No one is immune to all danger, and no one lives in a place that is totally free from the unexpected.

-Don W Pectol, VP, Emergency Essentials.

Red Feather Butter

2012-01-09T10:57:00.001-07:00

Lets face it: Butter is delicious. And it makes almost everything taste better. And while I am sure we could live without it, what would be the point?

Enter Red Feather Butter: a 12 oz can of real creamery butter for your food storage:

Everything tastes better with butter

Three things I love about this butter:

Shelf life: The manufacturer says that Red Feather Butter will store for 2 years in good conditions. In ideal, cool conditions, an unopened can could be expected to last much longer than that.
Ingredients: The ingredients list is exactly two items long: Pasteurized Cream, Salt. No preservatives or artificial ingredients!
Taste: Delicious. Honestly some of the best butter I have ever had.

Butter is a great way to add oils and fats to your diet, as well as getting that comfort-food feeling in a disaster or emergency.

A handy tip from a customer who tried the Red Feather Butter:

"I am using a supply of Red Feather butter purchased over 3 years ago and it is still great. Probably the best butter (bar none) I've ever tasted. Suggestion: When opening the can open both ends and use the lid to push the contents from the can into a container for storage in fridge."

What do you think? Is butter a necessity or a luxury? Would you add butter to your food storage?

2011: What Our Customers Said

2012-01-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

At Emergency Essentials®, we pride ourselves on quality, price and customer satisfaction. So, how well did we do in 2011? Here are just a few things that our customers had to say:

Jenna J.
I just cracked open a can of your cinnamon almond granola - SO GOOD. Even my picky eater girls loved it. Thank you for providing such great quality long term food storage at a decent price! Merry Christmas!!

Lissa Y.
I just want to thank you for having such a friendly staff at your call center. I can't recall the woman's name, but she was very nice, informative and helped me make the best decision for getting Christmas gifts for my sister and my parents. Not only was it a surprise that what I wanted was on sale, it shipped to me faster than what was told to me! I bought 2 of your Trekker II emergency kits and they arrived literally a day and a half later! Fast Friendly and Efficient service! Can't Beat That!

Douglas S.
Sent an E-mail to Emergency Essentials about the status of a recent order. Got a reply the very next morning that order was shipping shortly. The quickest reply about an order I have gotten. Best customer service in the world. 5 STARS.
Thank You, Emergency Essentials.

Peter Shaw
Okay, so I made wheat bread from scratch, using the recipe on the can of Emergency Essentials' Dough Enhancer. Turned out well this time. When it was done cooling, I sliced it up, made sandwiches and took my girl friend for a picnic in a local park. Great memory made with Emergency Essentials! :)

Rudy Sylvester
I’ve purchased several of your products in the past couple of years and have been trying them at random. I have to say that in all honesty that every thing that I’ve tried has been great. I’m very satisfied with the taste, quality and ease of incorporating it into a daily meal. If I had only the products that I’ve purchased from you to live on for the length of time of stored food I have I would have many fine meals.

Have you had a great experience with one of our products? Feel free to share it in the comments!

Chicken Ala King

2011-12-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

The great thing about this delicious recipe for Chicken Ala King is that you don't have to use just food storage. The entire recipe CAN come right out of your Freeze Dried or Dehydrated food storage. But if you have fresh vegetables, use them! Or fresh chicken, cream or butter. Whatever you happen to have.

This recipe is a great one to try now, to get ready for when you will have to cook this. If you're using our FD Chicken, FD Asparagus, FD Green Peppers or FD Zucchini, or using fresh versions of the same, I think you will find this dish delicious and simple to make.

Also, any Freeze Dried Vegetable could be used in this recipe, as well as all of our different poultry options. This is great with FD Chicken, or FD Asian Chicken, or FD Turkey.

Anyone tried this one? What is your favorite food storage recipe?

Holiday Giveaway Winners!

2011-12-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

Here are our winners for our Holiday Giveaways!

We have drawn our winners, and they have been notified by email. For those of you we did not contact, we would like to thank you for participating! We wanted to share with everyone who these lucky people are!

We would like to congratulate Angela of IN for winning our Holiday Giveaway, Day 1! She won a Holiday Candle Combo!

We would like to congratulate Debbie of UT for winning our Holiday Giveaway, Day 2! They won a $50 Gift Card!

We would like to congratulate Amy of MN for winning our Holiday Giveaway, Day 3! She won a Katadyn Hiker Water Filter!

We would like to congratulate Debbie of VA for winning our Holiday Giveaway, Day 4! She won a 3-day Emergency Kit

We would like to congratulate Dina of PA for winning our Holiday Giveaway, Day 5! She won a Victorio Hand Grain Mill!

We would like to congratulate Carl of GA for winning our Holiday Giveaway Grand Prize! They won a Year Supply of Food Storage!

Like us on Facebook to be the first to know about future giveaways and other great opportunities from Emergency Essentials!

Food Storage Egg Nog

2011-12-15T16:14:00.001-07:00

I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is possible to make eggnog entirely from food storage!

We have found that some people may not always keep vanilla and nutmeg on hand. If you have it, great, use it. If not, this recipe shows you how to substitute Cinnamon for nutmeg, and useBrown Sugar instead of white sugar and vanilla extract.

The thing that I really loved about making this was using the Mixer Pitcher. While it certainly isn't required, it makes this and many other jobs a whole lot easier.

The end result is delicious. This egg nog is going to be a lot thinner than a traditional Eggnog that is made with cream. But this is a great way to introduce food storage to family and friends in a way that will taste good. And since the Powdered Eggs are pasteurized, there is no risk of food born illness that you would get with using raw eggs.

Have you tried our Food Storage Eggnog yet? What other traditional Holiday treats can you make with just food storage?

Holiday Gift Combos Video

2011-11-23T17:30:00.001-07:00

Check out our new video, all about our Holiday Gift Combos!

Community

2011-11-18T12:26:00.001-07:00

If you're like me, then all this talk of getting prepared can get pretty overwhelming. And it seems like there is so much to know, that I can never get a handle on it all. This is where the power of community comes in.

Community means you're not alone. It means there are other people who can relate to your situation, and offer advice and help. From telling you where you can get the best price on wheat to helping you build a barn, your community can be an invaluable resource. Its more than just your city or town: Community can be your family, a network of friends scattered across the country, your co workers, or fellow members of a church of club.

At Emergency Essentials, we have a couple of programs and services to help support you and your community.

Group Program

The Group Program is a simple, convenient and affordable way for family, friends and neighbors to work together to obtain discounts on items relation to home storage and emergency preparedness. Each month we provide four of five items available at a quantity discounted price. Group Members are invited to combine their orders through their Group Leader to meet the minimum purchase requirements. There is no shipping cost for the entire order (regardless of the size of the order, if shipped within the contiguous 48 states) when one of more minimums are met. Anyone can become a Group Leader and there is no cost involved in joining the Group Program. We do ask that the Group Leader be someone who has an excitement for preparedness and is willing to share the monthly specials with each member of the Group. Working together really works!

Online Forum

Our forum was created with the express purpose of making an online community made solely for people who want to get prepared. It is place where you can go and ask questions, and get answers from real everyday people just like you. It is moderated daily to ensure that all comments are constructive and everyone feels welcome.

What other places do you look for that "Community Support"? How has your community helped you become better prepared?

Granola

2011-11-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

I was reading through some customer reviews, and found this great one on Granola:

"This granola is amazing! I opened a can so that me and my family could try it and was blown away! It's great as a trail mix/snack, as well as cereal when you add milk. Then, to try something random, I boiled some water and added it to a bowl of this stuff. It was delicious like that too! Then, as it sat in the water, it became some of the best oatmeal I have ever eaten!!! This stuff is so incredibly versatile! I will be ordering much, much more! for emergency storage. Absolutely awesome!"

Have you tried our Granola? What are some of your favorite ways to use it?

Vario: The Details

2011-11-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Katadyn Vario: Water, water everywhere...

2011-11-10T08:50:00.001-07:00

... And not a drop to drink. Ever thought about what you would do in a disaster where you can't gain access to clean running water? And your personal store is gone or likewise inaccessible. The Katadyn Vario may be the solution.

Now I know that picture looks complicated, but the Vario is designed to be incredibly easy to use. just put the hose in the water, grab a bottle to put underneath, and pump.

The Vario uses a multi-stage filtration system to help clean almost any water. The ceramic disc removes dirt and heavy particulates; the pleated glass fiber micro filter removes organisms like Giardia, Cryptosporidium, E. Coli, Salmonella and other harmful bacteria; and the granulated carbon core removes chemicals like pesticides and chlorine, improving the taste of your water.

The Vario was tested in turbid, murky water, and has an estimated filter life of 500 gallons of water. But in clearer water, you can expect a lot more. The ceramic disc can help extend your filter life, but is only necessary in very dirty water.

I've used my Vario several times in the past year, backing packing and hiking. It is light-weight, compact and best of all, incredibly fast! Almost 2 liters per minute. And with its current sale price, you really should check it out.

Stop by later this week for an in-depth look at the Vario's many technical aspects, as well as a step-by-step guide for using it in the field.

Add Our Button to Your Blog or Website and Win!

2011-11-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

Add Our Button to Your Blog or Website and Win!

Do you have your own blog or website? Have you been thinking about starting one? Simply put one of our Preparedness Pantry blog buttons (found on the right column of the blog) on your blog or website and we will send you a $10.00 Emergency Essentials® gift card for free!

How to claim your free $10.00 gift card:

Put one of our blog buttons (2 to choose from) on your blog or website.
Fill out the form at the bottom of this page.
That's it. Don't forget to let your friends and family know so that they can win a free gift card too.

Instructions for adding a button to your blog:

Copy the code in the white box under the button (on the right column) you want to add
Go to your blog Layout
Select Add a Gadget
Select HTML/JavaScript
Paste the button code into the Content window
Click Save

Please note: One entry per household. Free gift cards will be mailed after placement of Preparedness Pantry blog button has been verified. Please allow a few weeks for your card to arrive. We welcome entries from everyone; however, gift cards can only be mailed to an address within the 50 United States.

Kelly Kettle: How it Works, Part 2

2011-11-04T13:17:00.001-06:00

We are giving away one of our new Kelly Kettle Base Camp Combos this week. But what is the Kelly Kettle? How does it work? We set out this week to answer those questions in our series "The Kelly Kettle: How it Works". To enter the giveaway, Click Here.

To learn how to set up and light the kettle, see Kelly Kettle: How it Works.

Below is a tutorial on how to both cook and boil water at the same time with the Kelly Kettle.

Assemble the Pot Support, as shown.

Insert the Pot Support into the Chimney opening. If you have already lit the stove, be sure to use the supplied gripper-handle to avoid burns.

Light the stove, if you haven't already.

Place your Cook Set pot, with the food you wish to prepare in it, on the Pot Support.

While your water is boiling, your food will cook. Here we are reconstituting and cooking some

Mountain House Creamed Beef.

If the water in the Kettle boils before you are finished cooking, simply remove the Kettle, and insert the

2 Piece Grill. Be careful not to burn yourself.

Finish cooking your meal. Enjoy a nice hot beverage from the Kettle while you wait. Then use the Gripper-handle to remove your food from the fire, and enjoy.

So there you have it, folks. Boil water, cook food, everything you need to do in an emergency or while out camping. Do you have a Kelly Kettle yet? What kinds of things have you made with yours?

Guest Blog Post Giveaway

2011-11-03T13:05:00.000-06:00

Do you have some great food storage recipes? How about a preparedness or food storage tip? Maybe you have a great preparedness experience or product review to share with everyone. If so, this is the Giveaway for you. You can "win" a $20 Emergency Essentials® gift card by becoming a guest blogger on our blog!

Here's how the Giveaway works:

Submit your guest blog post relating to food storage, emergency preparedness, product review, etc. (See below for submission details.)
We will periodically select a guest post and publish it on the blog.
If your post is selected and published, we will send you a $20 Emergency Essentials® gift card!

Rules:

Guest posts must be submitted by email to social@beprepared.com with "Guest Blog Post Submission" in the subject line. Please include your first name and state.
Once submitted, the post content becomes the property of Emergency Essentials®. We reserve the right to edit the submitted post for content, typographical errors, grammar, etc.
Submitted photos, graphics, text, etc. must not be copyright protected material.
No advertising or links.
There is no limit to how many posts you can submit. You can "win" more than one gift card if we post more than one of your submissions.

So get going on those posts! Keep in mind that in some cases we may publish your post weeks or months after you have submitted it. You will receive a gift card after your post has been selected and published. We look forward to receiving and reading your submissions.

Please note: If your guest post is selected and published, please allow a few weeks for your gift card to arrive. We welcome entries from everyone; however, gift cards can only be mailed to an address within the 50 United States.

Group Specials for November

2011-11-02T16:05:00.000-06:00

This month we have some great Group Specials going on. Check them out below, and learn more about our Group Program by clicking here.

Venture 6 Tool

A shovel, hammer, hatchet and saw, all in one.

LED Blue Glow Stick 200

200 hour battery life, this glow stick also has a flashlight, whistle and water-tight compartment.

Dehydrated Apple Chips

A delicious, healthy and easy-to-use food. Great for recipes, emergencies, or even just as a snack.

Victorio Hand Grain Mill

Grinds wheat, rice, oats, barley, non-oily seeds and spices, all without any electricity.

FD Seasoned White Chicken

Real cooked white chicken. Just add water, and you can use it in virtually any recipe that calls for chicken chunks.

Which Group items are you most excited for?

Guest Blog Post: MyChoice

2011-11-01T10:54:00.000-06:00

Why I buy MY CHOICE products:

"I'm excited that we will have more MY CHOICE items available in November! You may ask WHY I'd want to buy smaller containers of food storage products. For me, it's an easy question to answer for many reasons, including that there are only two of us left at home. I am relatively new to long-term food storage. We've opened several of the #10 cans and it's taken us more than a year to use up the products -- like onions, peanut butter, dry milk and carrots. Based on that, I haven't opened or experimented with butter powder, dried eggs or egg whites or tomato powder. I figured we'd end up with half the stuff being unusable a few months after opening because we couldn't use it fast enough.

"I just bought a can of MY CHOICE butter powder for the sole purpose of opening and experimenting with it. Though smaller than a #10, these cans are a generous size, and the butter powder is fabulous! I first diluted it too much so it was soupy, but I was adding it to rice during cooking, so that was no problem. It made the rice taste so much better! Truly buttery. My next experiment was on hot biscuits. For these, I actually followed the directions on the can. My re-hydrated butter was delicious and melted inside the hot biscuits just like regular butter-- something I was very sceptical about before. Good bye to butter in my freezer!

"This experience has me excited to try other products. I'll also change some of my food storage decisions, for example now that I understand butter powder, I'll increase the number of both MY CHOICE butter cans and the #10 cans. The second decison is to buy some of the new November MY CHOICE items including the tomato powder, egg whites, egg powder and chopped onions next. The tomato powder and egg products are for me to practice using in daily recipes.

"I'll buy the onions because it took me 18 months to go through a #10 can. I'm now hooked on the canned product but don't want to open the big can. I prefer these 'expensive' canned onions. Turns out that when I buy fresh onions, I end up with about 20% waste because we don't use them fast enough. About 80 percent of my onion use is for chopped onion, so now I have the item available and only buy fresh onions when a recipe requires whole onions or onion slices. For me, it's less expensive and more convenient to buy and use the canned chopped onions. The rehydrated onions cook exactly like fresh -- I saute, brown, sweat them and they are wonderful. A side benefit is that they don't make you cry!!

"I'm looking forward to additional MY CHOICE products soon (I hope), like cheeses, other vegetables and even meat products so that I can increase my capabilites and skill at using my long-term food storage without having to needlessly open a whole # 10. MY CHOICE will also help me build my skills to use the product in the #10 cans more quickly and effectively as we rotate them or need them during emergency situations."

--
Gretchen
Arizona

The Kelly Kettle: How it Works

2011-10-27T17:07:00.000-06:00

The larger, "corked" vessel is actually the kettle that you boil the water in. It is double walled, and the water goes into the angled spout, between the two walls. The center is hollow so the heat from the fire can pass through. This increases the surface area of water exposed to the heat, making it boil faster. The cork allows you to fill the kettle before you leave and transport cold water with you.

The fire is lit in the Fire Base. You can use the supplied can of Fired Up! Emergency Fuel and Fire Starter, or gather sticks and kenneling to light your fire with. Or use a combination of both. As your water is heating up, if you need to add more fuel, this can easily be done through the chimney on top of the kettle.

Below you will find a photo walk-through of using the Kelly Kettle to boil water.

Everything you need to boil water

Fill the Kettle with water. The provided cork-and-chain is to help store cold water and transport it to where you are going.

Fill the Fire Base with your fuel source. Here, we are using 1 cup of our can of Fired Up! Emergency Fuel and Fire Starter. You can also use wood, leaves, twigs, pine cones, etc.

Before lighting your fuel source, place the Kettle on top of the Fire Base.

VERY IMPORTANT!!!! Be sure to remove the cork BEFORE you light the fuel in the Fire Base. Forgetting to do so can result in explosions. REMOVE THE CORK!!!! The sides of the kettle have these nice hooks, designed to keep the cork off of the ground.

Point the hole in the Fire Base into the wind to allow adequate air flow. If it especially windy, adjust so only some of the wind will be blowing into the hole.

Orient the Kettle so that the Spout is pointing into the wind. This will keep ash from the Chimney from falling into your water.

Light the fuel in the Fire Base, using your preferred fire-starting method.

As you can see, the chimney goes all the way down into the Fire Base. More fuel can be added by dropping it down the chimney. Be careful to not get burned!

Your water will boil in about 4-8 minutes, depending on the type and amount of fuel used, the weather conditions, and how full the kettle is.

Once your water has boiled, you will need to remove the Kettle from the Fire Base very carefully. Hold the Handle at a 90 degree angle, so that it is sticking straight out, level with the ground. Do NOT hold Handle above Chimney while on Fire Base. You will burn yourself.

Now that the Kettle is not over the Fire Base, you can hold the handle above it, like normal. use the cork and chain to tip the kettle (since the sides will be VERY HOT) and pour the water out.

And that is how you use the Kelly Kettle. Stay tuned, because next time we will be demonstrating how you can boil water and cook food with the Kelly Kettle. AT THE SAME TIME!

Adventures in Solar Cooking: A Customer's Perspective

2011-10-25T13:34:00.000-06:00

This week, we are testing out our new SOS Sport Solar Oven. Check out Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4 in our Blog series, where we give you all the details about how this oven works.

Today, we decided to hear from you, our readers, about the things you do with the SOS Sport Solar Oven.

Judith from Texas writes:

"I've been using it all summer and love it. I've cooked meat (to-die-for pot roast); beer bread; vegetables; fish; shrimp, chocolate cake, and ribs. After eating a "solar" dinner my visiting sister-in-law asked my brother .."are we going to get one of these?". He responded.. "are you kidding? We're going to get it just to cook CORN!" You cannot imagine how good corn on the cob tastes coming out of this oven!"

Lynn says:

"I have the sport and LOVE it. I think of it as a crockpot--anything you would make in a crockpot you can make in the sport, but it's much better to stick to recipes with less liquid unless it's a super sunny day and you're around to re-aim every couple hours. I have made cakes, meats, veggies, baked potatoes, casseroles. If you tilt the oven for winter use (and it absolutely works even in freezing temps), the pots no longer fit, though. I've never found graniteware in a size that works, but have a friend who used black grill paint on wide-mouth mason jars and lids with success."

What are somethings you have learned while using a Solar Oven? Will the SOS Sport be on your shopping list for the upcoming Holiday Season?

Adventures in Solar Cooking Part 4

2011-10-24T16:57:00.002-06:00

This week, we are testing out our new SOS Sport Solar Oven. Check out Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 in our Blog series, where we give you all the details about how this oven works.

Solar Pot Roast

Having successfully made a number of great bread-related dishes with the SOS Sport Solar Oven, we decided to try something a little more difficult: A full pot roast, with potatoes and carrots.

For this one, we really didn't have a recipe. But it went something like this:

One 3lb roast, un-browned (although you really could brown it on the stove before putting it in the oven if you wanted).

10 small red potatoes
3 cups baby carrots
1 heaping tablespoon Clarified Butter, melted, to grease pans
1 heaping teaspoon Clarified Butter, melted, drizzled over vegetables
Garlic Salt, to taste
Generous dash, Provident Pantry Italian Herbs and Seasonings Blend

You can never have too much butter

We used to Clarified Butter to coat the pans so our food wouldn't stick. We decided to cook the vegetables and the roast in separate pots. The roast got a gentle dusting of garlic salt and herbs, and then went into the pot. The vegetables received the same, but we also decided to drizzle them with a little more butter, because butter is delicious.

Much like a crock pot, the idea with cooking in a solar oven is to get the food out in the sun and then leave it be. We preheated the oven to about 350 degrees, then threw the roast and vegetables in at about 10:30 AM. And then we went back inside and tried to wait patiently...

we're not very good at waiting...

When we put the roast in, without browning it, we caused the temperature to drop by almost 200 degrees. It took a solid hour for it to climb back up to just 250 degrees, where it stayed for the rest of the day.

We let it all cook for about 6 hours. We did this in part because we wanted to make sure that the roast was completely done. But we also wanted to push the whole "you can't burn things in the solar oven" to its limit. Vegetables don't take nearly as much time to cook as the roast does, and we wanted to see what would happen to them if left in "too long". So around 5:00pm, we went outside to see what happened.

This happened

We noticed a buildup of moisture on the inside of the lid. This isn't a huge problem, but it can block sunlight, making it more difficult for the oven to heat up. Luckily we were finished cooking. It is recommended that you simply let the moisture dry on its own, either by putting the lid back on the oven without any food in it, or leaning the lid against the wall to drip dry. Anyways, back to the food.

The smell was incredible. The roast was fork tender and delicious. The vegetables were very soft, buttery and delicious. Perhaps they cooked a hair too long (I do prefer them to be a little firmer, personally) but they were not overcooked or burned.

What we learned today:
-While not impossible, it certainly is very difficult to burn things in the SOS Sport Solar Oven.
-Moisture can collect on the lid on cooler days, and needs to be watched for as it can affect cooking.
-In general, butter really can only make things better.

Adventures in Solar Cooking Part 3

2011-10-21T13:20:00.001-06:00

This week, we are testing out our new SOS Sport Solar Oven. Check out Part 1 and Part 2 in our Blog series, where we give you all the details about how this oven works.

Its Pizza time!

Coming off of our successful experiment in Dinner Rolls, we decided to up the stakes and make a food storage pizza.

Now, when I say food storage, most peoples think of something like this:

Pictured: Gruel

But earlier this year we posted our delicious recipe for a pizza, made with nothing but food storage items. This recipe was so popular we decided to see how it would fare in the SOS Sport Solar Oven.

We prepared the dough and other ingredients as described in this post. And as you can see, it looked pretty great.

Like we discussed last time, its important to preheat the oven as hot as you can get it. Its pretty amazing how much heat you lose every time you open the lid.

I won't go into a lot of details in the preparation (see this post for cooking instructions). But I will share with you the results!

Delicious. Not perfect, but pretty dang good. Since the oven cooks at lower temperatures, the pizza dough will rise more before it cooks. We made the mistake of putting the whole thing, toppings and all, into the oven all at once. So the dough rose a bit too much for a traditional pizza. But it was very tasty.

We also discovered that while you can't really burn things in the SOS Sport Solar Oven, you CAN overcook things. The toppings (specifically the cheese) were in the oven for the same amount of time as the dough, so it became a bit too crispy.

Overall though, a pretty successful day of solar cooking, using all food storage, and no electricity.

Things we learned today:
When you open the oven the first time, you need to add 30 minutes to your cook time. Every time you open the lid after that, add 10-15 minutes.

When making pizza, pre-bake the dough for about 40 minutes, and then add your toppings for the last 20-30 minutes. This will help you get a more traditional pizza crust.

Adventures in Solar Cooking Part 2

2011-10-19T14:49:00.000-06:00

This week, we are testing out our new SOS Sport Solar Oven. Check out Part 1 in our Blog series, where we give you all the details about how this oven works.

First Attempt: Dinner Rolls

We keep hearing a lot of contradictory reports about bread and solar ovens: some people say it makes bread perfectly, and other people say that it will make bread, but it wont brown the tops. Opinions vary, and we decided to not take anyone's word for it. So I grabbed a bag of frozen rolls from the freezer (I know, its cheating. Especially when we have a delicious Honey White and Wheat bread mix right next door in the warehouse).

We preheated the SOS Sport Solar oven by... setting it out in the sun, of all things. After about 30 minutes, we noticed that it wasn't heating up much. We realized this was because we were trying to heat it up without the panels. The panels detach, and are only supposed to be used in the winter or cold days. Since it wasn't very cold outside we didn't think we needed them. So our oven went from this:

to this:

With the panels on, we had the oven preheated to about 300 degrees in about 30 minutes. Not bad for just sitting outside on the lawn.

We greased one of the included pans with our Clarified Butter, and then put the rolls in. It is recommended that you cook everything in black or dark colored pots, as they help absorb the heat better. Even when baking bread, you need to have the lid on the pot so it will trap the heat and moisture.

We then set them in the oven, re-closing the lid as fast as we could to preserve as much heat as possible. We then made sure the oven was pointed toward the sun, and went back to work.

We checked the temperature every 30 minutes or so. We discovered that when you put cold food into the oven (such as bread dough that was in the freezer the night before) you can lose as much as 150 degrees in the oven, which will then take longer to regain. After about 45 minutes the oven was back up to about 250, and we let it be for a total of 2 hours and 11 minutes. Feeling slightly nervous, we pulled the bread out and...

Delicious, golden brown bread. The tops were browned, the bottoms were fluffy. All-in-all, not a bad first attempt at cooking in the SOS Sport Solar Oven.

What we learned today:
1. It IS possible to bake bread that browns on top and is delicious in the solar oven.
2. Preheat the oven as hot as you can (within safety limits), because you will loose a lot of heat when you put your food in.

3. Use the reflectors in autumn and winter.

Adventures in Solar Cooking Part 1

2011-10-17T13:37:00.001-06:00

You may have noticed in this month's catalog a new product: The SOS Sport Solar Oven. We are all really excited about this product over here and can't wait to try it out. So stay tuned this week as we post about all of the tasty things we will make in the new SOS Sport Solar Oven.

The SOS Sport Solar Oven uses the power of sunlight to heat up and cook food.

Use the power of the sun to cook in an emergency
Large capacity - holds 2 - 3.4 qt. Pots
Long-lasting and efficient
Highly weather resistant
Complete kit: oven, 2 pots, thermometer, manual, recipe booklet, WAPI (water pasteurization indicator) and solar reflector
Lightweight - 10 pounds

The oven is so easy to use: just put the food in a dark colored pot
(it comes with two), point it towards the sun, and then walk away. While slight readjustments through out the day will speed up cooking time, they are not necessary. And since the SOS Sport cooks at lower temperatures, you don't have to worry about food burning. Its like cooking in your crock pot on low.

Another thing I like about this oven is that it only has 3 pieces. The oven, the lid, and the reflector panels. The included pots are a bonus, but not a necessity, as any dark colored cookware with a lid will work. The detachable panels are really only necessary in the winter, to help direct more sunlight into the oven.

There really isn't anything this oven can't cook. From roasts, fish, chicken and pork, to bread and other baked goods, this oven does it all. The oven uses and traps the natural moisture in the food you are cooking, meaning you don't have to add extra water. This allows food to retain its natural vitamins, minerals and flavor. Since none of the moisture is lost, and it cooks at low temperatures, it is really difficult to burn food in this oven. Usually you run out of sunlight before food gets to the point where it would burn.

Because it only weighs 10 lbs and is wind and weather resistant, the SOS Sport is the perfect addition to camping trips, beach parties, fishing trips, back yard barbecues and everyday cooking. You no longer have to pack heavy and messy charcoal or flammable fluids. And cooking outside means the house doesn't get hot! You usually end up using more energy to cool down your house than you do to cook your food. Now take the heat outside where it belongs.

This week, we will be trying a variety of recipes and ideas in the SOS Sport. So stay tuned, and in the meantime, make some suggestions here of things you would like to see us try and cook.

Just Get Started

2011-10-11T15:49:00.000-06:00

Getting prepared can be incredibly overwhelming at times. As I thumb through our Catalog, I feel a slight tremor of panic. I think "I need ALL of these things?! Right NOW?!" and it all seems too much. And it can get expensive. And like any project, it's that first step that is the most difficult. Where do I even begin? Obviously, everyone's prep will be different, and I am by no means saying this is THE way to start prepping... But, today I decided to be done with anxiety, and finally get started. So I set myself a budget of $25, and boiled down the catalog to three essential items that I did not have, which are all on sale this month. Check these out:

Emergency Gas Wrench

This wrench is all one piece, made of sturdy metal, and comes with two sizes of openings for any gas line. It also comes with a zip tie so you can attach it directly to your gas meter, so you will always know where it is. That is assuming, of course, that you know where your gas meter is.

51-piece First Aid Kit

For everything that I would know how to "first aid", this kit has the tools. Simple, lightweight, and even comes with a sturdy plastic case - and a bargain at its sale price this month.

Millennium Bar Combo

These energy bars are not nearly as unpleasant tasting as you're thinking. Imagine a flavored shortbread cookie. Packed with calories, and they have a shelf life of 5 years, even if you store them in your steaming-hot car over the summer.

So that is my first step. WHEW! That wasn't so bad. Now I have a small measure of security, and can officially say that I have started my Emergency Preparation. And all of that only cost me $24.97, including shipping!

What was your "first step"? And what do you plan to do for step 2, 3 etc.?

Customer Review: Tomato Powder

2011-10-06T15:20:00.000-06:00

I was reading through some customer reviews, and found this great one on Tomato Powder, which I highlighted yesterday on the Blog.

Patricia H. of Florida writes:

"I had a can of tomato powder for years without ever trying it. My daughter told me one day how much she liked it, so I opened a can and started using it in my daily meals. We all love tomatoes, and this product is wonderful. As others have said, it is good to use any way you would use tomatoes. It re-hydrates instantly, and has a great tomato flavor. Good to thicken soups, stews and sauces. I'm still learning new ways to use it, and converting over from canned tomatoes. It stores so well, and keeps a long time. I can't think of any food storage product that is so versatile. There should be a recipe book just for this product."

This versatile and easy to use product is still on Sale through the end of the month as part of our Group Program. Grab a few cans today, and then come back here and post all the delicious things you make.

Savory Food Storage Spaghetti

2011-10-05T11:17:00.000-06:00

In an emergency situation, your stress level can be extremely high. Finding ways to relax, and things that can comfort you and your loved ones, becomes an essential. And while it might sound crazy, making "comfort foods" from your food storage is actually really easy!

One of our group items this month, the dehydrated Tomato Powder, is an incredible buy. It works virtually anywhere you would need tomato sauce or paste. We recently used it to make a delicious, Savory Food Storage Spaghetti. Check out our video:

What recipe are you most excited to try the Tomato Powder in? Share your favorites!

Getting Lost and Finding the Light

2011-10-03T14:33:00.002-06:00

I was reading the news this morning, and I stumbled across this article about a little girl who got lost in the woods while her family was out camping. The reason this story caught my eye is that it had a happy ending. The search party was able to spot the girl because she was wearing a glow stick necklace, and holding a flashlight.

My knee-jerk reaction to this was "my kids will always have a glow stick with them, everywhere, everyday, no matter what!" Which probably isn't the most practical choice. This probably sprang from my own experiences with losing people in the woods.

About 8 years ago, my youth group went for a day hike up the canyon near our home. In the course of hiking up to a waterfall, having lunch, and coming back down for a campfire, my sisters and one of their friends wandered off the trail and got lost. I still remember watching some of the grownups start to panic, and the fear was infectious. Luckily, my father was able to calm everyone down, organize search parties, and in about 2 hours they were found. Most stories like this from the area don't have such a happy ending.

The key really is being prepared and staying calm. The parents of this girl showed great wisdom in putting one of those necklaces around their little girl's neck. Glow sticks, whether in necklace form or otherwise, are great for camping and emergency kits. They don't take up much room and yet are a great source of light. I like the Lightsticks that we carry because they have a nice shelf life- around 5-6 years- so I don't have to worry about changing them as often. They also work great for situations where you might have a gas leak - after an earth quake, for example. Since they do not use fire, sparks or electricity to make light, there is no risk of explosion.

One thing that my family learned from my sisters getting lost was the importance of having a whistle with you. They decided to sit down and yell for help, and quickly went hoarse and lost their voices. If they had a whistle with them, they could have kept up the racket indefinitely, making it much easier to find them. Whistles can be very inexpensive, but can make all the difference. They even have lightsticks that have a whistle built into them. These do have batteries, which makes them slightly less than ideal for the gas leak problem. But they are great because they come with a lanyard to hang them around your neck, have 200 hours of battery life, a whistle, and a small watertight compartment for matches.

So don't overreact, but don't let something that is so simple to do pass you by. What are some other, super simple, inexpensive must-haves for camping and emergencies?

Tailgating with Food Storage

2011-09-23T13:08:00.000-06:00

With football season starting back up again, it's a great time to whip out those great recipes for tailgate parties! I always love getting together with friends to watch a good college football game. Not only is the company great but usually there are some great treats to snack on while we watch.

While I was with some friends the other day, I started thinking about how to adapt some of my favorite recipes for football parties so I could use my food storage. I realized that I could easily use food storage to make bean dip (one of our favorites) and that we could even use food storage to make tasty BBQ sandwiches.

Here are a couple of recipes that I found in the recipe section of the Emergency Essentials page that can serve as a great starting point:

Wheat Thins

Scotty's Southern Caviar

Fiesta Bean Dip

Spicy Refried Bean Dip

Apricot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Strawberry Milkshakes

There are so many great tailgate party snacks and foods out there and the more variety you have in your food storage, the more you can create with your food storage. What are some of your favorite tailgating recipes that could use food storage?

MSR® Miox™ Purifier Video

2011-09-21T16:54:00.000-06:00

Check out our latest video to learn about the MSR® Miox™ Purifier. There are many great features that make this water purification system a great option for camping and emergency preparedness. Watch the video below for more information!

Emergency Plan for Pets

2011-09-20T10:19:00.000-06:00

Today as I was looking through a few news sites online I ran across an interesting article from CNN about making sure you have an emergency plan set up for your pets. I was mostly surprised by how similar the suggestions for pet emergency kits were for the suggestions for human emergency kits. Here are a few tips from the article that particularly stood out to me:

1. Try camping, or at least learn a few skills - It's important to keep in mind that many hotels and other places you might think to stay during an emergency may not allow pets. If you find yourself in this situation, you will probably be happy that you have some camping supplies like a tent or water filter set aside and a few skills that can help you get through until you find a more permanent place to stay.

2. Invest in sturdy pet carriers - No matter where you end up during an emergency, your pet will need to sleep somewhere. Get a carrier now and have your pet sleep in it and get used to it. Make sure it is big enough for your pet to be comfortable in and that it has space for a water and food bowl.

3. Carry copies of documentation - It is pretty common to hear that we should keep copies of credit cards, birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other important documents with our emergency kits. The same thing applies to important papers for our pets. Some papers that you might want to consider are lists of medications or allergies, vaccination records, and disaster contacts.

4. Carry photos that show you with your pet - This can work as proof of ownership. You can put pictures of you and your pet on it's carrier and also carry them with you in your emergency kit.

Click here for more ideas of what you should consider when working on preparing an emergency kit and plan for your pets and to read the article from CNN in it's entirety.

Freeze-Dried Zucchini - Customer Review

2011-09-14T17:42:00.000-06:00

Freeze-Dried Fruits and Vegetables make a great addition to any food storage program. They can add a great variety to the traditional storage foods that you might already have tucked away. You can also use Freeze-Dried Fruits and Vegetables in the recipes you make daily.

Kim, from California, had this to share about her experience with Freeze-Dried Zucchini:

"The first time I used the slices, I hydrated too long and they became too infused with water and were very rubbery. The second time, I wanted to make a zucchini omelet so I sauteed chopped green bell peppers and onions and just before adding the zucchini slices, I hydrated them with chicken stock and IMMEDIATELY put them in with the sauteed vegetables. I sauteed the slices with the vegetables and then I added beaten eggs over the top and it made a GREAT omelet. Don't forget to add lots of garlic, garlic salt, red pepper flakes, and pepper. Wonderful! It was like using fresh zucchini!"

Have you tried our Freeze-Dried Zucchini? If not, click here for some great recipe ideas from our website. If you have tried it, what is your favorite way to use the Freeze-Dried Zucchini?

September Groups Specials

2011-09-09T13:52:00.000-06:00

If you aren't familiar with the Emergency Essentials Group Program, it is a great way to get amazing discounts on preparedness products. Not only are the deals great on these products but when you meet the minimum purchase amount, your group order will qualify for free shipping.

The items available for the group specials often change each month. If an item comes on special that you absolutely love, it's a great time to make a bulk purchase since the prices are so low. Group specials also provide a great opportunity to try out something that you may have been wanting to try. You can get together with your friends, family, or neighbors and make an order so you can share the discount and each get an item at the discounted price.

Here are the great group specials for the month of September:

Tomato Powder

This Tomato Powder is perfect for making sauces, soups, juice, to use as a thickener, or for adding color, nutrition, and flavor to your home storage recipes. Since the Provident Pantry Tomato Powder consists only of dehydrated tomatoes, you can use it in almost any recipe and make it exactly what you want it to be.

When you buy 12 or more cans of Tomato Powder, you will save 35% off the regular price of $30.95 and get each can for only $20!

Peggy Layton Cookbook Set

This set has four books that would make an excellent addition to any preparedness library. The information Peggy Layton provides in Cookin' with Powdered Milk, Cookin' with Dried Eggs, Cookin' with Beans and Rice, and Cookin' with Potatoes can open your eyes to what can be done with Powdered Milk, Dried Eggs, Beans, Rice, and Dehydrated Potatoes. You might be surprised at what tasty things you can create with each of these ingredients.

When you buy 5 or more Peggy Layton Cookbook Sets, you will save 31% off the regular price of $40.80 and get each set for only $28!

Low-Fat Cinnamon Almond Granola

This is a favorite around my house. It's great as a hearty breakfast cereal, makes a delicious snack, topping for cobbler or ice cream, and can be a part of a tasty trail mix. Each can contains 40oz of Low-Fat Cinnamon Almond Granola.

When you buy 12 or more cans of Low-Fat Cinnamon Almond Granola, you will save 33% off the regular price of $11.95 and get each can for only $8!

Group Entrée and Side Combo

Some great Mountain House (MH) and Provident Pantry (PP) favorites are combined in this flavorful combo. You'll get a great variety of entrées and sides including, MH Rice and Chicken, MH Noodles and Chicken, MH Pasta Primavera, PP Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken, PP Freeze-Dried Broccoli and PP Freeze-Dried Strawberry Slices.

When you buy 4 or more of the Group Entrée and Side Combo, you will save 27% off the regular price of $151.17 and get each combo for only $110!

Click here for more information about the Emergency Essentials Group Program.

Flooding in the Northeast United States

2011-09-08T14:51:00.001-06:00

As I've been keeping my eye the news, one story in particular stood out to me today. Over 100,000 residents living along the Susquehanna River in northeastern Pennsylvania are being asked to evacuate their homes by this evening. There is major flooding expected along the Susquehanna due to remnants of Tropical Storm Lee. Schools in many areas that could be impacted by overflowing rivers and heavy rains are being shut down and sections of interstates may also be closed due to the weather.

I have experienced a few floods but I've never been in a situation where they have necessitated an evacuation. Water is much more powerful and can cause more damage than it might seem. Here are some great tips I found on the FEMA website that are great for everyone to keep in mind since flooding can happen anywhere.

If a flood is likely in your area:
• Listen to the radio or television for information.
• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:
• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if directed to do so. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:
• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If flood waters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possibly stalling.
• A foot of water will float many vehicles.
• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV's) and pick-ups.

If you find yourself in one of the areas that is expecting flooding in the next couple of days, keep these tips in mind and do what you can stay safe.

For more information on preparing for a flood, click here for an insight article written about flood preparedness.

New Provident Pantry Just-Add-Water Meals

2011-09-07T12:59:00.000-06:00

This month we are introducing our five new Provident Pantry Just-Add-Water Meals and to celebrate, they are all on sale. Each of these meals are so easy to prepare. They are perfect for food storage, taking out on a backpacking or camping trip, or they are a great easy meal for a night when you don't want to cook. Click on each of the pictures below for more information about each entrée, including nutritional information, preparation instructions, and ingredients.

Mac and Cheese

SALE! $20.99

Granola with Milk and Blueberries
SALE! $26.99

Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

SALE! $22.99

Stroganoff and Noodles
SALE! $26.99

Spiral Pasta Primavera

SALE! $24.99

The only ingredient for these meals that you need to add is boiling water. Once you have mixed the specified amount of water with the Just-Add-Water Meal mix, you are only ten minutes away from a hot and tasty meal.

We recently asked our Facebook fans which of the new Provident Pantry Just-Add-Water Meals they were most interested in trying and we found out that most were excited to try out the new Granola with Milk and Blueberries.

We would love to know which of these new Just-Add-Water Meals you are the most excited to try so leave us a comment and let us know! Each of these meals are on sale at their low introductory price through the end of September, so now is a great time to try them.

National Preparedness Month

2011-09-06T13:00:00.000-06:00

Happy National Preparedness Month!

We started our celebration of National Preparedness Month early this year by introducing our current giveaway for our "Traditional 2000" Year Supply. This is a great giveaway and we are giving everyone a chance to win one of our popular "Traditional 2000" Year Supply worth over $1600!

The giveaway is super easy to enter and there are extra opportunities to get bonus entries to increase your chances of winning. Click here for entry details.

Also, this is a great time to work on setting some emergency preparedness goals. There are so many different types of emergencies and ways that you can prepare. I know that sometime it can get really overwhelming and all it takes is making the first step.

National Preparedness Month is a perfect month to pick at least one thing that you can do to help you and your family be better prepared for whatever emergency you feel is the most important to prepare for. Maybe you are in the path of the tropical storm sitting in the Gulf of Mexico, you live in earthquake country, or maybe you are worried about the possibility of losing a job. Take some time and decide which potential emergency situation or natural disaster you are most concerned about and take that first step.

Once you have decided what you want to prepare for, we have some insight articles available that can be very helpful as you are figuring out how to prepare. There are articles that range from Natural Disaster Preparedness, getting first aid supplies together, preparing for the first 3 days of an emergency, and more.

Also, there is a great resource available on our forum. If you come across a question as you are working on your preparedness that you can't find the answer to or you want to know from someone's personal experience, head over to bepreparedforum.com and post your question. There are so many people who are more than willing to answer your questions about preparedness and have a great wealth of knowledge and experience that they love to share.

As you work on preparing your household this month, you will become more and more confident in your ability to handle whatever surprise might come your way.

3-Day Emergency Kit

Experiencing an Earthquake

2011-09-02T12:14:00.000-06:00

The recent earthquakes in Colorado and Virginia brought back memories of the first earthquake I ever experienced. Growing up on the West Coast, we had monthly earthquake drills at school and we were well informed from a young age about what can happen during an earthquake. Even though I had been well educated, I was still surprised when the Scotts Mills earthquake hit in 1993.

The Scotts Mills earthquake was a magnitude 5.6 and was the largest earthquake the Pacific Northwest had seen since 1981. It occurred early in the morning when most kids were out of school for spring vacation. When the earthquake hit, I was still in bed dreaming. In my dream I was in my bed and there was someone shaking my bed. I thought it may have been my mom trying to wake me up for breakfast but when I woke up, I realized that no one else was in my room. The strangest thing though was that my bed was actually shaking.

By the time I realized what was happening, the shaking was over. I went out to find my mom in our living room watching the news to find out what had just happened. We checked the shelves in our pantry to make sure that nothing had fallen off and then we waited for my dad to get home from his early morning walk. He had been walking at a park no more than half a mile from our house and when he got home he was surprised that we were awake since he hadn't felt the earthquake.

The Scotts Mills earthquake was felt from as far south as Roseburg, Oregon to as far north as Seattle, Washington. There was some structural damage caused by the earthquake including chimneys that had fallen down and failure of walls made from unreinforced masonry. The State Capitol building was damaged as well as a few local school buildings.

The earthquake in Virginia yesterday was a great reminder that although I no longer live in an area of the country where earthquakes are common, it is still just as important to always keep them in the back of my mind as a possibility.

It is always a good idea to have an emergency plan and make sure your entire family knows what to do in case of an emergency. Remember that cell phone service could be disrupted and other lines of communication may not work they way they normally do.

With the earthquakes and Hurricane Irene at the front of our mind, now is a great time to become familiar with the evacuation procedures at your workplace and at the school where your children attend. It's also a great idea to check your 72-hour kits and car emergency kits to make sure they are up to date with fresh batteries, food, water, and clothes that are the right size and will be perfect for the upcoming change to Fall weather.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips

2011-09-01T15:29:00.001-06:00

Last week, as everyone on the East Coast was getting ready for Hurricane Irene, we asked our friends over on Facebook if they had any tips for hurricane preparedness. Between the possibility of a tropical storm forming in the Gulf of Mexico over the next few days and Hurricane Katia still traveling towards the Atlantic, I thought it might be a great time to share some of the tips from our readers who have experienced hurricanes themselves.

"Remember gasoline for the generators and vehicles, and water! When Hurricane Ike came through Texas, our power was out for a week. That meant grocery stores were closed and gas stations couldn't pump gas. The nearest gas station with gas and electricity was 50 miles away, so plan for that as well. Whatever stuff you normally use, have at least enough on hand for two weeks. Once the stores open again, the stores won't be instantly filled. Don't forget your pets. Have them tagged and get them extra food. Make sure you have batteries and flashlights of all sorts, a larger lantern or two, and several of those smaller LED type lights that either hang on the wall or set on a flat surface. Fans, either 12volt or the kind that run on batteries and electric can be helpful. You might need more than one of these if it is really hot out!"

"While we lived in Florida, we went through four hurricanes...We included games to occupy our time while we waited for the storm to pass. We made sure to charge all our batteries (including computer, cell, etc.) before the storm hit. We used one of the computers to watch a favorite movie with the children while we hunkered in the bathroom during the worst part of the storm...We included comfort food in our preps as well. Don't forget to fill up the car with gas or freeze water jugs to place in your freezer. Clear the yard of debris and toys prior to storm arrival. While most of these preps sound trivial, they made it a lot less scary for the children."

"Make sure the pantry food is water tight!!"

"Take pictures of everything in your house room by room, you may need them. Also when Charley came through, I put all our important papers in the dishwasher, they stayed nice and dry."

"Sometimes leaving early is the best thing to do. This is a very personal decision and there is no right or wrong answer. It just takes a hard honest look at where you are, what you have and who you are responsible for."

Head over to our Facebook page to see all of the other great tips that were given by our friends. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to share in the comments!

Also, don't forget to enter our awesome Traditional 2000" Year Supply giveaway! We are giving away one of our popular "Traditional 2000" Year Supply combos and the winner will be chosen this month in conjunction with National Preparedness Month. Click here for more information on how to enter.

Food Safety Tips: After A Power Outage

2011-08-30T09:49:00.001-06:00

I know many residents along the East Coast are dealing with widespread power outages after Hurricane Irene passed over them this weekend. After experiencing many power outages myself, I have realized that something I often don't think about, sometimes even after the power has come back on, is making sure that the food in my refrigerator and freezer is still safe to eat.

I found some great tips from the USDA that might be helpful for those of you who are still waiting for the power to come back on. They are also great things for everyone to keep in mind since a power outage can happen anywhere at any time.

Steps to follow after a weather emergency:
• Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
• The refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) and the door remains closed.
• Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheeses, milk, eggs, leftovers and deli items after 4 hours without power.
• Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40ºF or below when checked with a food thermometer.
• Never taste food to determine its safety!
• Obtain dry or block ice to keep your refrigerator and freezer as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic-foot full freezer for 2 days.
• If the power has been out for several days, check the temperature of the freezer with an appliance thermometer. If the appliance thermometer reads 40ºF or below, the food is safe to refreeze.
• If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine its safety. If the food still contains ice crystals, the food is safe.
• Discard any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is any chance that it has come into contact with flood water. Discard wooden cutting boards, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples and pacifiers.
• Thoroughly wash all metal pans, ceramic dishes and utensils that came in contact with flood water with hot soapy water and sanitize by boiling them in clean water or by immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water.
• Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and retort pouches (for example, flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches) can be saved. Find more instructions here for saving all-metal cans and retort pouches.
• Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters. If bottled water is not available, tap water can be boiled for safety.

When in Doubt, Throw it Out!

Preparing for a Hurricane - Guest Post

2011-08-22T15:57:00.000-06:00

Hurricane season is a great time for everyone to check on their emergency supplies. Even if you don't live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, there is no telling how the weather associated with a hurricane could impact your life. This article from accuweather.com points out that while the hurricane will likely hit the Southeastern United States, there is a potential for widespread flash flooding all along the Atlantic seaboard.

Since we are in the midst of hurricane season and Hurricane Irene is poised to hit the Southeastern United States by the end of the week, I thought the five tips that one of our readers had to share would be particularly helpful and could serve as a great reminder for any of you that live in the path of Hurricane Irene.

Preparing for a Hurricane

Preparing for a natural disaster two and a half years ago, I found myself experiencing my first hurricane with four young children, one of them only 3 weeks old. This gave me an opportunity to really see if we had prepared adequately. One thing you don’t realize before a disaster like this strikes, is how quickly the things you take for granted can be taken away. Here are some lessons I learned from Hurricane Ike which could be applied to many natural disasters:

1. Prepare as much as you can now. You will be surprised how hard it is to get things like gasoline and groceries when a disaster is coming or has hit. Preparation can save you a lot of time waiting in lines with people who are stressed and hurried. Make a plan and take steps to prepare your family. Before the hurricane hit, I waited in line with my infant to buy gas. The credit machines were not functioning properly. Having cash on hand in small bills saved time and stress. (Not needing gas in the first place would have been even better!) People were flocking to the stores to buy bread, water, and food that could be easily heated and eaten. After the storm, stores had less employees working and people had to wait in line to have a turn to go in. The frozen food section was blocked off with caution tape, and the convenience foods had still not been replenished. Have ample food stored ahead of time and be sure it is food you are comfortable preparing and like to eat.

2. Have a way to heat your food. Sure, you can eat it straight from the can, but your family is already under stress, and it is so much nicer if you can make things as close to normal as possible. Having a way to prepare simple foods, such as a camp stove, gas stove (if your gas hasn’t been turned off), solar oven, or other method of cooking will be invaluable.

3. Water storage is a must. After the hurricane, the quality of the water was not yet determined to be completely safe. But since we had water storage, I could make bottles for my infant without concern.

4. Have some forms of entertainment that don’t need to be plugged in. A loss of electrical power will be just plain boring and stressful if you don’t have some means of keeping yourself, and your children, entertained while you wait for things to get back to normal, especially if your husband is gone helping with the clean up efforts. Having games, coloring books, and means of occupying your children that don’t require electricity will go a long way to help everyone stay happy – and you may even find that you enjoy the break from other distractions.

5. Have medications on hand. This is an obvious one, but very important. A disaster is not the time to be attempting to contact your doctor or pharmacist. Have extra medications, as well as medicine for general ailments, stored safely away from where children can reach them, and have enough to get you through at least a few days to a week.

The approaching hurricane season is a good time to take an inventory and see how prepared you are for any dangerous weather that may come your way. Any steps you can take beforehand, any amount of time and money you can afford to spend now, will be well spent.

-- Coleen, TX

If you have any other tips that you have learned through dealing with hurricanes, please leave them in the comments section! We would love to hear from everyone who has experienced a hurricane of any size.

Do you have a preparedness or food storage experience, tip, recipe, product review, etc.? Become a guest blogger on Preparedness Pantry and earn a $20 Emergency Essentials gift card! Click here for details.

Preparing for an Emergency: Healthy Diet

2011-08-18T16:15:00.000-06:00

Food storage, 72-hour kits, and water storage are all important parts of emergency preparedness. As I've been thinking more about my emergency preparedness, I've realized that when faced with a disaster, having a positive attitude and a healthy body could be just as important as the physical things I have stored.

One way I've been trying to keep my body healthy and prepared for an emergency is modifying my eating habits and choosing more healthy foods for meals and snacks.

According to the new guidelines from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the most important thing when trying to eat healthily is to make sure your calories are balanced. You can still eat foods that you enjoy, you just need to make sure you eat more of your favorite healthy foods and less of your favorite unhealthy foods.

The USDA suggests that when you are serving up your food, make half of your plate fruits and vegetables, make sure that half of your grains are whole grains, and switch low-fat (1%) or fat-free milk.

When picking what to drink with your meal, avoid sugary drinks and make sure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day.

I've found that by following these simple guidelines, I feel healthier and I have more energy. I also have found that I am generally in a much better mood on days that I eat healthy foods than on days when I eat junk food and candy.

Not only will eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help me feel better on a daily basis but during an emergency, it won't be too hard to transition to a diet containing mostly Freeze-Dried Fruits, Vegetables, homemade whole wheat bread, and other food storage items.

Asian Chicken Stir-Fry Video

2011-08-16T14:20:00.001-06:00

We have a great new Stir-Fry Combo on sale this month for only $89.99 that includes our Freeze-Dried Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken, Freeze-Dried Portabello Mushrooms, Freeze-Dried White Onion Flakes, Freeze-Dried Broccoli, Dehydrated Carrot Dices, and White Rice.

Check out our most recent video for a great recipe for an Asian Chicken Stir-Fry that uses all of the ingredients included in our Stir-Fry Combo.

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Egg Drop Soup Video

2011-08-10T16:44:00.000-06:00

Check out our latest video for a great side dish to go with your Stir-Fry or a perfect way to use your Powdered Whole Eggs!

New Products - August 2011

2011-08-09T15:17:00.000-06:00

It's always nice to get something new. Here at Emergency Essentials, we are continually evaluating and testing new products. You can always click on the "New" tab on the top right of our website (BePrepared.com) for a complete listing of our latest and greatest products.

Here are a few of the new products we have this month. Simply click on each picture for more information.

Freeze-Dried Fruit Favorites Combo

Granola with Milk and Blueberries

and

Granola with Milk and Bananas

Jumper Cables

Deluxe Auto Combo

Auto Tool Kit

Auto Emergency Kit

Auto Emergency Kit Add-On

Kaito Voyager Pro

First Aid for Puncture Wounds

2011-08-09T14:38:00.000-06:00

Puncture wounds are usually caused by a sharp, pointed object such as a nail or needle. Puncture wounds can be very serious. The main concern is that it is a small, yet deep wound, and germ-laden bacteria can be pushed into the wound.

Puncture wounds are often difficult to clean. If the object has penetrated the bone, it can abscess. This is especially risky if an object penetrates a tennis shoe. The foam in tennis shoes is known to harbor a type of bacteria called pseudomonas, which can cause infection of the tissues.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to provide first aid for a puncture wound, follow these instructions:
• Flush the area thoroughly with water, cleaning well
• Elevate the punctured area if possible
• If signs of infection manifest (redness, swelling, persistent pain, pus or fever), contact a health professional (These signs of infection apply to any type of wound)
• If a foot has been punctured, wear a clean sock and shoe to protect the area while it is healing

It is always a good idea to make sure you are current on your immunizations against tetanus.

Jambalaya Video

2011-08-04T16:56:00.001-06:00

Check out our newest recipe video for Shrimp Jambalaya. We know that a lot of you may not like shrimp so this is a perfect recipe to use with any type of meat combination. It is also a great way to use your Freeze-Dried Vegetables.

Asian Chicken Stir-Fry

2011-07-29T08:01:00.001-06:00

We wanted to give our blog readers a sneak peak at our new Stir-Fry Combo combo that is on sale in August for only $89.99. It includes Freeze-Dried Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken, Freeze-Dried Portabello Mushrooms, Freeze-Dried White Onion Flakes, Freeze-Dried Broccoli, Carrot Dices, and White Rice. This is a great opportunity to try out our new FD Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken as well as our recipe for Asian Chicken Stir-Fry.

First Aid for Minor Cuts and Scrapes

2011-07-28T13:07:00.000-06:00

397-Piece First Aid Kit

First aid is something that we all have some experience with. You may have had to treat a scraped knee, a blister after a hike, or something much more serious. The sight of blood coming from a wound can be very upsetting for some people.

It is wise to study up on first aid in advance so if you have the need to provide first aid assistance, you can stay as calm as possible and take proper action. Remember to keep your first aid kit well stocked at all times!

The following are some guidelines for handling minor cuts and scrapes:

• Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water removing any foreign material, such as gravel or dirt, which can cause infection
• Cover with a sterile dressing and bandage
• Keep it clean and dry at all times
• Wash the wound area daily (without scrubbing) and reapply a clean dressing until it is completely healed
• Sponge area lightly with disinfectant

Some experts feel that applying products like hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and iodine directly onto the site may delay healing of the affected area. Use your judgment, if you are hesitant, you can swab the area surrounding the cut instead.

The 397-Piece First Aid Kit is a great kit to add to your emergency supplies. It comes organized in a quality travel bag and includes a bonus mini backpack which is perfect for having access to first-aid items anywhere. It is on sale for only $32.99 through the end of August.

Mobile Washer - Customer Review

2011-07-27T14:59:00.000-06:00

"I bought the mobile washer five or six months ago, but didn't really expect much. The first time I used it though, it more than paid for itself. I had a couple of really gross cleaning rags and didn't expect them to come clean. I let them soak for about fifteen minutes with some dish liquid and a little bleach then spent about three minutes plunging them. I was amazed at how clean they got.

I've washed slips, nightgowns, and other small items with less soap and water and in a lot shorter time than using a washer. It's especially nice because I live in an apartment building and it can be a pain in the neck to get a washer."
-- Linda, Louisiana

This washer uses a technique of pushing and pulling the water through the clothes without excess friction (which also reduces the wear on your clothes). This mobile washer uses minimal water and because of the agitation motion, less soap. Use in a bucket (5-gallon suggested), sink or tub. This hand washer is also able to rinse your clothes using fresh water. The Mobile Washer is a great item to have with your emergency and outdoor supplies.

Click above to watch the video

Natural Disasters on Vacation - Guest Post

2011-07-25T10:27:00.000-06:00

Natural Disasters on Vacation

Recently, I was out of town with three children (two of those with autism). We ended up getting stuck in a hotel during not one, but two tornado touchdowns all within four miles of our location. I don't know how many of you have ever bee in a hotel during a tornado but it is not fun. Of course there is no power, but when the hotel loses power then the alarm starts to go off. Unfortunately, the hotel staff had no idea how to turn the alarm off so we had to deal with that nonstop high pitch squealing that seems to aggravate the senses of most people.

The hotel clerk moved everyone to the lobby. When I pointed out that the lobby was glass encased, he nodded and asked me where we should go. I lined my charges up in the hallway beside the lobby. My daughter looked down the hallway and pointed out that it looked like we were in a creepy horror movie which of course, added more stress to the situation.

Thankfully my kids had left the room with their DS and iPods because that was the only source of light and entertainment that we had for over two hours. I was actually beginning to panic because I knew the batteries would not hold out much longer and of course, there was no way to recharge them.

We did make it out safely and without any major damage but all the way home, I kept thinking of ways that I could have been more prepared for that unexpected emergency.

Since returning home, I have been on a mission to be prepared for any emergency. I have been reading Preparedness Pantry daily. The insight articles are invaluable and have provided me with a wonderful framework to follow. I have since created a backpack for each of our family members that will provide them with enough provisions for three days. I have also created small "to go" boxes for each of our animals in case of an evacuation. I am now in the process of stocking up on different types of emergency food (MREs, canned, freeze dried).

-- Bridget, KY

Basic Emergency Backup Meal - Customer Review

2011-07-22T12:25:00.000-06:00

"We were impressed with the price and quality of the Basic EBM. We were amazed by everything we got in just one package. Also, I was pleasantly surprised by the nice mix of meat and non-meat meals. I was glad to see some vegetarian alternatives. I bought 24 meals and over all, received a really good assortment of meals. The food was easy to fix and very filling. Totally blown away by how good the food tasted!!! We will definitely use these for camping trips and backpacking trips in the future, as well as survival food."
--Mona, NM

With Basic MRE Emergency Backup Meals (EBM) you get all-in-one convenience. They are compact and easy to store with a great variety of ready-to-eat meals. These EBMs are packaged in a handy zip-top bag idea for camping, backpacking and emergency preparedness.

You can purchase these EBMs individually for $5.75. If you purchase 12 or more, they are on a special sale price this month for only $4.60 per EBM. This is a great value and they are perfect to add to your emergency supplies.

8 Tips to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning

2011-07-19T16:03:00.002-06:00

For many of us, having our air conditioner go out in the middle of an extreme heat wave would be considered an emergency. Since a large portion of the United States is currently experiencing severe heat, we found some great tips to share from Metro West Daily News on how to stay cool during extreme heat even if you don't have air conditioning.

Grooming For Summer
• Take a cool shower
• Use bathroom vents - Humidity caused by a shower can make your house feel warmer
• Dress for summer - Wear cotton, silk, or linen in light colors and loose styles
• Store lotions in the fridge - rub them on hot, overtired feet

Cooling the House
• Use a ceiling fan - It uses a lot less energy, costs less to buy, and doesn't require professional installation like air conditioning units
• Install attic vents - Since heat rises, having cooler air in your attic will help cool the rest of the house
• Park the car - If your garage is under your home, consider leaving your hot car outside to cool off before you put it in the garage

Chilling Your Body
• Exercise early or late - If you are used to exercising during the middle of the day, try to change your schedule so you can take advantage of the cooler temperatures earlier or later in the day. If you can't change your schedule, scale down your workout
• Keep water bottles in the freezer - Take one with you when you go out side. When the ice melts, it will give you a nice supply of cold water
• Move on - If all else fails, find an air-conditioned public building and spend some time there

For more tips, visit the Metro West Daily News.

Emergency Financial Planning

2011-07-18T09:21:00.000-06:00

Mounting debt is perhaps one of the most trapping situations and greatest deterrents to getting ahead financially in today's world. If you, like many other people in America, find yourself weighed down with too many bills and feel like you are drowning in them, what can be done?

One of the best ways to get out of debt is to stop using credit cards. Then pay them off as soon as possible. They are beneficial should you need to rent a car or encounter an extreme and rare emergency; otherwise avoid using them at all costs.

Always pay your home mortgage bill before it lapses into 30 days past due. If you get behind 30 days or more on even one payment to your mortgage company, it triggers a black mark on your credit report that may jeopardize obtaining a loan on future home purchases.

Other money-saving tips:

• Shop grocery sales (buy one; get one free) and stock up on your favorite items.

• Eat basic wholesome foods; avoid prepared boxed mixes.

• Prepare menus in advance and shop from your list

• Don't buy furniture, clothes, etc. on credit. Shop at second-hand stores, flea markets, garage sales, and swap meets. You will be surprised at the great deals you can land for a fraction of the price you would spend on new items.

• Attend "dollar movies" or rent videos, instead of paying full price for a theater ticket.

• It is recommended to store what you eat and eat what you store. This is a great way to save money and rotate your food storage.

With so many options, it is a great idea to brainstorm with your spouse or family members on additional ways to save money.

Financial preparedness is an essential part of any preparedness plan. Once your finances are in order, other areas of preparedness will fall into place.

Click here for more articles on education and planning.

Safety and Preparedness - Guest Post

2011-07-15T09:22:00.000-06:00

Safety and Preparedness

I admit it freely; I am a proud preparedness and safety geek. Whether it is taking a class from the American Red Cross, working with my local Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT), or preparing my family for the next big earthquake to hit the Pacific NW, I am there. As a Boy Scout, the motto, “Be Prepared!” is one that I took seriously then, and still do today.

What a lot of people fail to realize is that 9/10 of safety is being prepared. Prepared to eat, drink, shelter, and live on your own or with loved ones for days, weeks, or months. Safety goes hand-in-hand with preparedness.

When you drive your car, you put on a safety belt. When you go outside to trim the bushes with your brand new power-saw, you put on safety goggles and safety gloves. When you work on a construction site, you wear a safety hat. All of these things are safety preparedness. Preparing for things you hope will never happen, but sometimes do. You don’t expect to get into an accident, poke out your eye, or have a 2X4 hit you in the head, but accidents happen.

Accidents, natural disasters, and life are inevitable, preparedness isn’t. Preparedness is taking the step to ensure that when these things happen, you are ready to meet them head-on, without fear, and with the knowledge that you can survive them. Preparedness can eliminate the unknown, which causes people to panic, and creates a stressful environment. Preparedness is being responsible to your family, so you can continue to support one another during a difficult time. Preparedness brings the peace of mind that you took time to mitigate risks that occur without warning. Preparedness lets you feel comfortable in the power that you and your family will not be dependent on a government, non-profit, or neighborhood group that might be too overwhelmed, or incapable of handling the disaster unfolding.

Up in the Pacific NW where I live, there are floods, landslides, earthquakes, and fires. These are the kind of accidents people usually think about last, but need to be prepared for the most. They usually occur without warning and affect a wide-area. Recent events in Chile, Japan, and New Zealand have shown that the Pacific NW needs to be prepared for a major earthquake, probably within my lifetime. Having a one-stop resource like Emergency Essentials to prepare makes the task that much easier. Do yourself and your family a favor, and like the Boy Scouts, “Be Prepared!”

--Stephen, OR

Staying Safe During Extreme Heat

2011-07-14T11:28:00.000-06:00

According to the National Weather Service, heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States. Statistical data shows that heat causes more fatalities each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.

As the weather continues to be abnormal across much of the United States, here are some great tips from FEMA about what you should do before a heat wave to ensure you are prepared and to better avoid heat related illnesses.

Before Extreme Heat:
• Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary
• Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation
• Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside
• Weather-strip doors and windows to keep cool air in
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent)
• Keep storm windows up all year

During Extreme Heat:
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun
• Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available
• Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation
• Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a doctor
• Drink plenty of water. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks

Katadyn Hiker Water Filter - Customer Review

2011-07-07T11:23:00.001-06:00

During the month of July, we have a special Katadyn® Hiker and Blue Water Bottle Combo on sale for only $47.89 (Regular Price: $63.90). This is a savings of 25% off the regular price for this combo.

The Katadyn® Hiker is the best selling microfilter in the US Outdoor Market. Its unique filter prevents early clogging and its ergonomic handle makes it easy to pump up to one quart per minute. Compact and lightweight (only 11oz), the Katadyn Hiker is great for emergency kits, backpacking, and camping. The water filter's simple design makes it easy to use and it eliminates bacteria and protozoa (Giardia and Cryptosporidium). A carbon core reduces pesticides and chemicals, producing fresh tasting water.

Technical Specifications:
•Microfiltration Method: AntiClog Technology with 0.3 micron glassfiber and activated carbon granulate
•Output: Up to one quart per minute
•Cartridge Capacity: Up to 200 gallons, depending on water quality
•Weight: 11oz
•Height: 6.5"
•Hose Length: 36"

"The Katadyn® Hiker is an excellent, simple and lightweight filter ideal for small families or individual use. I use this filter with Katadyn® Micropur Tablets and have never had a problem with my drinking water, even when filtered from swamp water. It makes a great addition to emergency kits for short term use; it's also great on the trail. Note: Take care to ensure your water container is properly cleaned, disinfected and prepared to receive the filtered water. Follow the manufacturer's directions for cleaning and sanitizing after use and before storage."
--Steve, WV

How to Survive a Dust Storm

2011-07-06T17:06:00.000-06:00

Monsoon season in the United States begins in late June to early July and affects most of the Desert Southwest. During monsoon season the weather can quickly change causing high winds, rain, floods, lightning, thunder, and dust storms.

The recent dust storm in Arizona serves as a great reminder of how quickly the weather can change and how many problems the weather can cause with travel, even during the summer. Whether or not you live in an area that has frequent dust storms, it's important to know what to do if you ever find yourself in the middle of one while traveling.

According to the Arizona Emergency Information Network, dust storms are unexpected, unpredictable and can sweep across desert landscapes at any time. Here are a few tips from the Arizona Emergency Information Network on what to do if you find yourself facing a dust storm.

If you are outside:
• Seek shelter immediately
• Cover your eyes, nose and mouth
• Stay low and cover up

If you are in a moving vehicle:
• Pull off the roadway or reduce speed
• Turn off car lights
• Set the emergency brake

It's important to have a car kit or some basic emergency supplies easily accessible in your car just in case you get stuck for an extended period of time on the side of the road. You may want to consider including water, food, and extra clothing to protect your skin from blowing sand.

Group Specials for July

2011-07-05T15:04:00.002-06:00

The group program is a way for families, friends, and neighbors to work together to obtain discounts on preparedness items. Group orders qualify for free shipping within the 48 contiguous states when the minimum purchase amounts are met.

The items available for group discount during the month of July are:

Freeze-Dried Onion Flakes

When the time comes to use your food storage, these onion flakes can be added directly to your recipes in place of fresh chopped onions, giving robust flavor to your casseroles, soups and more. No additives or preservatives.

When you purchase at least 12 cans of the Freeze-Dried Onion Flakes, they are $12 each. That is a savings of 27% off the regular price.

Freeze-Dried Green Beans

Green Beans are great in casseroles and soups; Freeze-Dried locks in freshness and nutrition. Add this garden favorite to your food storage. No additives or preservatives.

When you purchase at least 12 cans of the Freeze-Dried Green Beans, they are $10 each. That is a savings of 28% off the regular price.

Case of Aqua Literz (12 pack)

Over 400 ounces of refreshing purified water in a 12 pack. No chlorine has been added to the water and it has a 5-year shelf-life. Great for emergency kits, for baby formula emergencies, and home emergency supplies. A 12-pack will provide water for two people for up to 72 hours.

When you purchase at least 12 cases of the Aqua Literz, they are $22 each. That is a savings of 26% off the regular individual price.

Freeze-Dried Cauliflower

Add the nutrition of cauliflower to your home food storage. It rehydrates quickly and retains most of its color, flavor, and nutrition. It's great for soup and has no additives or preservatives.

When you purchase at least 12 cans of the Freeze-Dried Cauliflower, they are $10 each. That is a savings of 33% off the regular price.

Strawberry Flavored Apple Chips

Keep on hand for use in an emergency or daily recipes. They are also a great snack for anytime.

When you purchase at least 12 cans of the Strawberry Flavored Apple Chips, they are $9 each. That is a savings of 35% off the regular price.

Click here for a blog article written about how the group program works and tips on how to organize your own groups.

Quantities are limited on all group products. To order, call toll-free 1-800-999-1863 or click here. Orders for group items should be placed by March 24, 2011. For more information on the Group Program, please click here. An additional charge will be added for orders shipped to Hawaii, Alaska, APOs & FPOs.

New Products - July 2011

2011-07-01T08:39:00.003-06:00

Here are a few of the new products we have this month. Simply click on each picture for more information.

Cheesy Macaroni & Beef

Minor Surgery Kit

LED Glow Spotlight

LED Glow Flashlight

LED Glowstick

Bosch Universal Plus Mixer

New Meals Ready To Eat:

Cheese & Noodles with Vegetables

Ratatouille

Veggie Burger in BBQ Sauce

Cherry Berry Cobbler

Mango Applesauce

Santa Fe Rice

Practice Water Conservation

2011-06-30T16:49:00.001-06:00

There are many things that we all take for granted. It isn't necessarily because we are not thankful for them, but more likely it is because we have never experienced life without them. One of these commodities is water. When we turn on the tap, we expect a rush of water to emerge. Have you ever stopped to think what it would be like to experience an empty faucet?

It is estimated that the average U.S. citizen uses 110 gallons of water a day. You may wonder how this is possible, but when you take into consideration the amount of water used for flushing toilets, showering and bathing, washing laundry and dishes, watering lawns, and cooking and drinking, you realize how it all takes a toll on the nation's water reserves.

Here are some water-saving tips that can help you start learning how to conserve water now so that if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to make your emergency water supply last, it won't be as drastic of a change:

• Do not let water run from the faucet while you brush your teeth. Fill a glass halfway with water and use that to wet your brush and rinse your mouth.
• Limit showers to five minutes or less. While you wait for the water to get warm enough to use, fill a bucket with the colder water and use it to water plants.
• When taking a bath, only fill the tub halfway.
• Fill a one-gallon plastic container with water and put it in the toilet tank to displace one gallon of water (or use a brick in a zippered plastic bag).
• Plant lawn grass that can handle dry weather.
• Check faucets, hoses, and other water devices for leaks.
• Water your lawn and garden between the hours of 9pm and 9am. This helps conserve moisture by minimizing sun exposure.

During emergencies, it is suggested that you recycle your used bathing/laundry water for flushing the toilet, watering your garden or mopping your floors. (Don't use water with cleansers like bleach or other harmful cleansers to water plants). Use disposable plates, cups, and eating utensils.

If you have any other suggestions of how to conserve water during emergencies or everyday life, please share them in the comments!

Water Storage Solutions

2011-06-29T17:08:00.003-06:00

Water Storage Solutions

As I've learned more the past year about being prepared for everyday situations as well as emergency situations, I've discovered one area I am sorely lacking in is water storage.

My efforts in this area have been almost (but not quite) non-existent. So I started with the things that most of us start with. First I purchased bottled water. Next, I moved on to refilling used pop and juice bottles. While this method did expand the water I had available to me, I very quickly became aware that it would take a LOT of individual bottles just for a two week supply of water for one person, let alone a supply for my entire family of 5.

So, I sat down and worked out a plan. I knew I still needed some form of portable water inside the house, so I started investing in water boxes that held 5 gallons each and came in a kit of five. They were easy to fill, were very sturdy, easily fit on the bottom shelf in my storage room and behind the doors. They are easy to empty and refill every six months so we can always have fresh water at our disposal. The best thing is that just three of the kits supplied more than the recommended amount of water per person per day for a two week supply for my family of 5.

Having that one small goal taken care of, gave me great peace of mind and allowed me to set further goals for my family's water supply.

While working on our 72- hour kits and trying to come up with light-weight solutions for the kids packs, I came across some pre-packaged "personal" water boxes. What a perfect solution for the little ones. Since they were just like a juice box, with a straw included, the kids are able to use them all by themselves and in a crisis situation they will be able to be independent and feel more in control.

I liked this option so much that I have added cases of them to our food storage. We always carry a supply of them in the car and I also put a few in the stroller when we are going on our outings. Since they are closed boxes, they are less likely to spill and lose their water supply.

Finally, knowing I live in a flood zone, and that our drinking water could easily be compromised, I started looking for solutions to store larger quantities of water. For my family I have found water barrels to be the best solution. They come in several sizes and I am able to store them in different locations in the house. Having the option to store water throughout the house where it would be needed the most was a key reason for choosing the smaller barrels over one of the options that would store hundreds of gallons of water in one place.

Having so many options for the water our family may need in any situation helps me feel so much better prepared to face whatever challenges may come our way.

--Tammy, Utah

Water Challenge: One Gallon of Water for One Day

2011-06-28T15:53:00.003-06:00

Similar to other emergency drills such as earthquake, fire, and tornado, this drill is intended to familiarize your family with a difficult situation. They may also become more confident and prepared to deal with other challenges that could arise. Use wisdom and caution when trying out this challenge. Keep members of your family well hydrated and it will be a good experience for everyone.

The Challenge

Consider living at least 24 hours with only one gallon of stored water per family member per day. For example: a family of four would need to live off of 4 gallons of water for a 24 hour period.

You may be thinking this will be easy. Anyone can go without cooking or extensive cleaning for 24 hours. You can expect that your children will have no problem drinking less than a gallon of water per day. However, consider average water usage in non-emergency situations.

When you begin to consider sanitation, cooking, and washing clothes you'll notice that one gallon of water is an absolute minimum.

After completing this challenge you may want to take some time to evaluate what occurred and re-evaluate your family's preparedness plans. Were the proper tools available to cope with limited water use? Would one gallon of water per person per day be sufficient for your family? Most recommendations are for 2-5 gallons of water per person per day in an emergency. Spend some time discussing the results with your family and adjust your plans accordingly.

Click here for more about how this challenge can help you and your family be prepared.

Chicken Alfredo - Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken

2011-06-22T14:10:00.001-06:00

This month we have a special buy of Freeze-Dried (FD) Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken. When I first saw it in our catalog I thought it would be great for stir-fry or other Asian style meals but I didn't give it much thought until we got this review from one of our customers:

"There is nothing Asian about this wonderful chicken except the faint hint of (spices) and the substantial, satisfying slab (ribbon) style of the cut. I tried this chicken straight out of the can. It re-hydrated in 3 minutes with very little hot water. Ingredients said "soy sauce" (undetectable) and "salt" (much less salt than others I have tried)...The substantial pieces, (not dust) in this can make it my favorite chicken-- starting right now."
-- PB, Georgia

Rehydrated Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken

When I opened up a can of this chicken I found large pieces, similar to precooked grilled chicken purchased at the grocery store. After rehydrating some of the chicken I tried it and found that it didn't have the strong Asian flavor that I was expecting. The seasoning was perfect and the chicken tasted great by itself. This got me to start thinking about some of my favorite chicken dishes and I decided to add some to Chicken Alfredo. It was amazing! In fact, I would recommend this chicken for almost any recipe.

Chicken Alfredo

We have a limited supply of this FD Asian Style Seasoned White Chicken on sale this month for only $31.99 (regular $42.95). When you buy six or more cans, the price drops to only $29.99 per can. This chicken has a high amount of protein, is versatile enough to use in any recipe and will make a great addition to your food storage. Don't let this amazing deal pass you by!

Safeguard Your Documents Against Fire and Flood

2011-06-20T16:23:00.001-06:00

No matter where you live or what precautions you take, no one is exempt from the possibility of becoming a victim of flood, fire, or earthquakes that could destroy your precious documents.

The most reliable way to protect your documents from floods or fires is to purchase a fireproof/waterproof safe. These safes can also provide protection from other natural disasters. Most people don't have their important documents organized and may have them scattered throughout their home. When an emergency occurs, there is not usually enough time to find vital documents.

If you can't afford to buy an expensive safe, make sure you store your documents together in a waterproof container in a specific designated spot. Make sure you and your whole family knows exactly where the documents are stored.

The following are items that you should consider protecting from fire and flood:
• Wills (in most instances you will need the original for it to be legally binding. You may also want to consider making several copies since no state or city office keeps a record of wills)
• Trust documents
• Personal and family records
• Cherished photos and keepsakes
• Business files
• Collector items
• Legal and financial documents
• Family heirlooms
• Birth certificates
• Deeds
• Titles
• Cash
• Keys
• Account numbers
• Copies of licenses (vehicle, professional, marriage, etc.)
• Inventory of valuable household items (including pictures)
• Family videos
• Jewelry
• Other items that would be difficult to replace

Select Mountain House Cans Back-In-Stock

2011-06-17T13:12:00.001-06:00

We have a limited quantity of select Mountain House cans back in stock. Click here for a list of Mountain House #10 cans that are currently available. Availability is limited to the amounts currently in stock so order soon!

10 Tips on Hiking with Little Ones

2011-06-15T15:40:00.001-06:00

With summer vacation here for many around the country, here are ten great tips to keep in mind if you want to take a hike with children.

1. Choose hikes with a specific destination such as a lake, a spectacular view, or a waterfall. Start small children on short, easy trails at first; gradually increase difficulty as their muscles and ambition grow.

2. Keep hiking speed and distance within physical as well as fun limits. A good way to judge the pace of a child is to take turns letting them assume the lead. Maintain their pace when you are in the lead.

3. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Stop frequently to observe nature and the little things that a child finds fascinating. They may even discover things you have missed before.

4. Make your child's feet a priority. Sturdy boots that fit properly will allow a child to focus on the fun and adventure of a hike. At the first sign of redness or blistering feet, apply moleskin.

5. Take only pictures; leave only footprints. Teach respect of the outdoors. Set an example by carrying out trash and following park or forest regulations.

6. Take plenty of food your child likes to eat. Familiar foods will be more appetizing to a child than traditional hiking fare and even the pickiest eaters seem to have a larger appetite in the outdoors.

7. Have each child carry a small backpack or fanny pack. The pack should contain water, a survival whistle, flashlight or lightstick, a brightly colored poncho, emergency blanket, extra socks, extra food, and a small first aid kit. Depending on the age and ability of your child the items may vary. Teach your child how to use these items in case they are lost.

8. Take frequent rest breaks and drink plenty of water. When exercising, children lose water faster than adults and are not likely to notice the affects.

9. Pack extra clothing and be prepared for rain even if there isn't a cloud in the sky.

10. Have fun! An enjoyable experience will increase the chances that your child will want to venture out again and again.

Feeling Burned? Try BurnFree

2011-06-14T15:11:00.001-06:00

Since burns are common injuries both at home and during emergencies, it is important to be familiar with proper first aid treatment of all types of burn injuries. BurnFree can be used at home to treat burns, ease pain, and can even help sunburns.

BurnFree contains a unique combination of water and natural plant extracts. The active ingredient is melaleuca alternifolia. This ingredient has been found to help cure burns and disinfect small wounds. Since BurnFree is a complex natural mixture of organic compounds had has been proven to have effective germicide properties, it can be used on or around mucous membranes and on broken skin. If a wound has blistered, or occurred with an invasive wound such as a scrape or impalement, you can still treat the burn with BurnFree gel and not cause serious infection problems to the open wound.

Unlike gauze pads which can shed threads or fibers that may adhere to the wound as it heals, premedicated BurnFree dressings will not shed and will conform easily to the injured area for less restricted movement and added comfort.

BurnFree provides immediate results and can be used to reduce pain and trauma from wounds caused by fire, flames, chemicals, electrical burns, as well as phosphorous and magnesium. The dressings are strong enough for injuries caused during industrial accidents but remain safe for home use. BurnFree can be a real lifesaver for everyday emergencies such as a burned finger while cooking or a burned brow from a hot curling iron.

"I am very impressed with BurnFree. Having a good friend that works in the County Hospital "Burn Unit" I was able to talk to her and ask her opinion on this product.. She had only good things to say about this gel. She said that they use it often, and that it really seemed to help those that needed the use of it. So I ordered it and put it in the First Aid Kit just to have. We have had to use it on a Sunburn and on a burn from a soldering iron. It really does do the trick of easing the pain fast and stopping the burn. Those that may question this product, you will never be sorry if you do purchase this. I keep one bottle close at hand now. Thank you for offering this to us at a low cost. It is so worth it."
-- Patsy, AZ

Mexican Food Combo Giveaway Winner

2011-06-13T12:46:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to Heather from Alabama who has won our Mexican Food Combo Giveaway! We know this will be a fun addition to her food storage.

Remember, this new combo is on sale for only $59.99 through June 30th. This is a great way to add the flavors of Mexican food favorites to your food storage.

Taco Mix Textured Vegetable Protein: This flavorful meat substitute is easy to prepare and provides the same taste and texture as real meat.

White Rice: This staple can be eaten by itself, used as a side dish, or used as an ingredient in your favorite burrito or enchilada recipe.

Dehydrated Refried Beans: All you need to make these tasty Refried Beans is boiling water. The Refried Beans are very healthy and high in protein with no added lard or fat.

Freeze-Dried Super Sweet Corn: This vegetable is an excellent choice for an instant side dish or for an easy snack. The colorful kernels are light and crispy and packed with sweetness.

Black Beans: These Black Beans are a good source of fiber and protein. They can be used to make delicious soups and salads.

Dehydrated Chopped Onions: Add the taste of onions to your stews, casseroles, and Mexican food dishes without the tears. These chopped onions are great to add to your food storage or to use everyday in your favorite recipes.

Preparing for Hurricanes - Guest Post

2011-06-08T14:59:00.001-06:00

Preparing for Hurricanes

A few years back, my family experienced a hurricane. At the time, my fourth child was only 6 months old. My husband was in the Coast Guard and we naively thought we were prepared for any emergency - we were wrong. When you live in a hurricane prone area, there are so many false alarms that you can get numb to the warnings of evacuation. Many times they suggest you evacuate and the hurricane ends up hitting another area. This time, the hurricane was coming and by the time we realized it was going to hit our area, it was too late to evacuate or prepare. The week before it was supposed to hit, I tried to make hotel reservations in a more inland area but every hotel was booked in my state as well as the surrounding states. There was nowhere to go.

Being a military family from the Northwest, we didn't have friends or family that lived outside of our immediate area so there was nowhere to go to stay with friends. We made the decision to hunker down in our home rather than go to a shelter. Since we didn't live on the coast, the only damage we expected would be from rain and wind.

I went to the grocery store only to find the shelves empty of all the essentials and the store full of people, like me, trying to stock up. I was shocked! I had never seen grocery store shelves completely empty with hundreds of stressed people - except in movies!

The hurricane came a few days later. We watched TV and I talked with my mom on the phone up until we lost electricity. The hurricane was loud and wet and a little scary but our home remained intact with minor damage. We were lucky, trees missed our house but hit our neighbors homes.

The next day, we wanted to drive around town to survey the damage but we couldn't get out of our own neighborhood in a vehicle because the roads were covered with large trees that had yet to be moved. People who had lived there for years went outside with their gas motored saws and started cutting trees to make way for vehicles. We worked together to move debris to the side, careful to avoid power lines, so that we could get out. We couldn't get far before having to drive creatively around the trees and roads that were impassable.

We found the whole city was without electricity. Restaurants were price gouging their food to sell, cooking up on grills outside before it spoiled. By the time it was our turn to get inside the restaurant, food had run out so we went back to our hot, humid, and dark home. For two weeks, we lived on peanut butter and jelly. We were lucky we still had running water. I don't know what we would have done without it.

I learned many lessons that week - mainly, that I was not prepared. We are now living back in the Northwest in earthquake country. I realize that if we had a major earthquake that cut off my water and electricity and blocked the roads to get out, I'm still not prepared. I'm working on putting together an emergency kit that would be especially helpful during these types of emergencies.

--Maria

Protecting Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

2011-06-07T16:56:00.001-06:00

The Wallow Fire wildfire burning in eastern Arizona has quickly become the states second largest wildfire and is starting to cause problems for residents of many surrounding states. According to a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Denver, a ridge of high pressure is carrying the smoke as far away as central Iowa. He also said the smoke was hitting eastern Colorado as well as New Mexico, Nebraska and Kansas.

The Arizona Department of Health Services has a great list of ways to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke:

Pay attention to local air quality reports: Pay attention to any local news coverage or health warnings that are related to the wildfire smoke. Most news reports will issue warnings and give suggested tips for how to handle the current level of smoke.

Use visibility guidelines: It can be difficult to monitor smoke from wildfires because the fires usually occur in remote areas but the smoke from these fires is generally highly visible. Generally, the worse the visibility is, the worse the smoke is.

Use common sense: If it looks smoky outside, you should avoid outdoor activities. Also, it is not a good time to send children or pets outside to play.

If you are advised to stay indoors: Keep all windows and doors closed. Check your air conditioner to make sure the air filter is clean.

Don't add to indoor air pollution: Don't use anything that burns including fireplaces and candles. Vacuuming can stir up particles already inside your home so you should avoid it. Don't smoke; it will put even more pollution in your lungs and the air around you.

Dust masks aren't enough: Regular dust masks won't protect your lungs from the small particles in smoke. N95 Masks will filter out 95% of particulate in the air which will protect your lungs from many of the smaller particles that you could be breathing.

Spaghetti Seasoning - Customer Review

2011-06-06T15:45:00.001-06:00

I love this Spaghetti Seasoning. It's so easy to use to make a good sauce. I use about a pound of it every Fall making sauce to can for winter. When we are in a hurry I just cook the spaghetti, open a jar, heat it up, and pour it over the noodles. I am ordering two more pounds now so I can have one in my storage. I don't ever want to be without.
-- Dorothy, WA

My wife insisted we order this Spaghetti Seasoning to try...I came back and ordered it again. It made the best spaghetti and pizza sauce ever. It truly exceeded my wife's expectations and she is a wonderful cook who knows her way around the kitchen.
-- Jerry, OK

During the month of June, the one pound packages of Spaghetti Seasoning are on sale for only $3.99 (19% savings). It's a great time to try out this seasoning for yourself. If you have tried it, we would love to hear how you've used it!

What to Do After a Tornado

2011-06-03T11:21:00.001-06:00

FEMA has a great section on their website with links to answers of Frequently Asked Questions about what to do to recover from disaster. One important thing to remember is that recovery from a major natural disaster, will take time. Make sure you stay safe and get help from authorities when necessary.

Here are some tips of things to do after a tornado:

• Help injured or trapped persons
• Give first aid when appropriate
• Don't try to move the seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger of further injury
• Call for help
• If you smell gas, do not turn on any appliances or switches. This includes using phones, flashlights or a cell phone.
• Turn on the radio or television to get the latest emergency information
• Stay out of damaged buildings. Return home only when authorities say it is safe
• Use the telephone only for emergency calls
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, or gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the buildings if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
• Take pictures of the damage--both to the house and its contents--for insurance purposes

What to Do During a Tornado

2011-06-02T16:21:00.001-06:00

When a tornado is coming, you only have a short amount of time to make life-or-death decisions. Advanced planning and quick response are the keys to surviving a tornado. Since tornadoes can hit at any time of day, there are many situations you might find yourself in during a tornado.

If at home:
• If you have a tornado safe room or engineered shelter, go there immediately
• Go at once to a windowless, interior room; storm cellar; basement; or the lowest level of the building
• If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller inner room such as a bathroom or closet away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls
• Get away from the windows
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it
• Use arms to protect your head and neck
• If in a mobile home, get out and find shelter elsewhere

If at work or school:
Go to the area designated in your tornado plan
• Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways, or shopping malls
• Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside
• Do not open windows

If outdoors:
• If possible, get inside a building
• If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building
• Be aware of the potential for flooding
• Use arms to protect head and neck

If in a car:
• Never try to out-drive a tornado in a car or truck
• Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building
• If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle.
• Be aware of the potential for flooding

Whole Wheat Brownies

2011-06-01T13:45:00.001-06:00

Comfort foods and desserts are important to have in an emergency. Give these Whole Wheat Brownies a try!

What to Do Before a Tornado

2011-05-31T13:33:00.004-06:00

There are many things that you can do at any time to prepare for a tornado. Many of these will also help you plan for any other variety of emergency.

Create a kit: Make sure you have basic disaster supplies on hand and easily accessible. These supplies should include:
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries or other alternative energy powered radio
• First-aid kit
• First-aid manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy shoes

Develop an emergency communication plan: In case family members are separated from one another during a tornado (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact". Make sure everyone in the family knows your plan and how to reach your out-of-state contact.

Tornado Watches and Warnings: Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

•A tornado watch issued by the National Weather Service when tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms. This is time to remind family members where the safest places within your home are located,and listen to the radio or television for further developments.

•A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.

Mobile Homes: Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable. A mobile home can overturn very easily even if precautions have been taken to tie down the unit. When a tornado warning is issued, take shelter in a building with a strong foundation. If shelter is not available, lie in a ditch or low-lying area a safe distance from the unit.

Tornado Danger Signs: According to FEMA, there are some danger signs that you should look for:
• Dark, often greenish sky
• Large hail
• A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
• Loud roar, similar to a freight train

If you notice any of these signs, or there is a tornado warning in your area, be prepared to find safe shelter immediately.

Tornado Facts: What You Need to Know

2011-05-25T13:52:00.001-06:00

With all of the recent tornadoes in the United States, it's important to remember that every state is at risk of experiencing a tornado. According to FEMA, tornadoes are nature's most violent storms and as we have all seen in the news, they can be devastating. We would like to share a few important facts from FEMA that may be especially helpful for people who aren't familiar with the threat of tornadoes.

• Tornadoes are spawned from powerful thunderstorms

• Winds associated with tornadoes can reach up to 300MPH

• Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still

• Tornadoes may strike very quickly and give very little or no warning that they are coming

• Sometimes tornadoes will appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are picked up or a cloud forms in the funnel

• The average tornado moves from the Southwest to the Northeast

• Tornadoes are most frequently reported east of the Rocky Mountains during the spring and summer months

• Peak tornado season in the Southern states is March through May; in the northern states, it is late spring through early summer

• Tornadoes are most likely to occur between the hours of 3pm and 9pm

Keeping Food Sanitary

2011-05-24T13:43:00.002-06:00

During an emergency, it's especially important to keep your cooking area clean and food sanitary. If you aren't careful, harmful germs can spread to food and make you sick or animals can destroy or eat your food. We have some tips for how to best keep food sanitary during an emergency or even during camping trips:

• All food scraps should either be burned or buried in a pit far from your living area to keep bears and other wild animals away from you.

• Keep all of your food covered and off the ground. You may keep your food in a tree, but be sure tree dwelling creatures can't get into it.

• Place lids back on on water bottles and other containers immediately after use.

• Do not wash your dishes in the area where you get your drinking water supply. Instead, wash your dishes away from a stream.

• Use clean dishes or eat out of the original food containers to prevent the spread of germs.

• Wash and peel all fruits and vegetables before eating.

• Prepare only as much as will be eaten at each meal.

With a little knowledge and preparation, you can stay clean and healthy, even during an emergency situation.

Special Offer: Freeze-Dried Beef Entrée and Vegetable Side Combo

2011-05-23T14:14:00.001-06:00

The Freeze-Dried Beef Entrée and Vegetable Side Combo adds great variety to your food storage. Four favorite beef main courses come with broccoli and super sweet corn in this tasty collection of entrées and side dishes by Mountain House® and Provident Pantry®.

Freeze-Dried Beef Entrée and Vegetable Side Combo

This Freeze-Dried Beef Entrée and Vegetable Side Combo is currently on sale for only $119.99. There are limited quantities available and the price is only good until we run out. The Freeze-Dried Beef Entrée and Vegetable Side Combo includes Mountain House® #10 cans of Beef Stew, Beef Stroganoff, Spaghetti, Chili Mac, and Provident Pantry® #10 cans of Broccoli and Super Sweet Corn.

Creating a Sanitation Area

2011-05-20T15:16:00.001-06:00

When camping or during an emergency, choosing the right location for your sanitation needs can be just as important as staying clean.

Your sanitation area should be located downhill from any usable water source. It should also be a few hundred feet from any river, stream, or lake. It also helps to have your waste area downwind from your living area but not so far from your camp that the distance discourages people from using it.

Making an Emergency Toilet:
If you have a medium sized plastic bucket (5-6 gallon), lined with a heavy-duty toilet bag, you can have a decent emergency toilet. A plastic toilet seat can be purchased to fit on the bucket for a more comfortable seat. If you don't have an extra plastic bucket, you can make a latrine by digging a long trench, approximately one foot wide and 12-18 inches deep and cover it up as you use it. When you dig your latrine too deep, it can retard the bacterial breakdown process. Digging a longer latrine is appropriate for large groups camping in one spot for a long period.

In order to make your latrine more comfortable, you can make a seat by laying logs across the hole, leaving an area open for you to use. After use, cover the waste with small amounts of dirt to decrease the odor. A covered toilet reduces more of the odor than an open one so make a toilet cover with wood or a large leaf.

Disposing of Waste
If you are out camping, make sure you are aware of regulations that may require that you pack out all solid waste. This practice may be especially common at high-use rivers.

If you cannot dispose of refuse properly, you should always bury biodegradable garbage and human waste to avoid the spread of disease by rats and insects. Dig a pit 12-18 inches deep and at least 50 feet but preferably 200 plus feet downhill and away from any well, spring, or water supply. Fill the pit with the refuse and cover with dirt.

Sanitation Tip - Washing Hands and Bathing

2011-05-19T14:57:00.001-06:00

You can prevent illness by washing your hands often; before eating, after using the bathroom, after you change a diaper, and any other time you may need to freshen up. Since water is such a precious commodity during an emergency, you should remember to prioritize the use of purified drinking water. You may want to use it first for drinking, cooking, washing dishes and then for other purposes.

Be organized and choose a designated bathing area. If you wash in a river or stream use biodegradable soap and always be aware of others who may be downstream.

With a little soap you can also wash yourself in the rain. Other washing alternatives include moist towelettes, a spray bottle, sanitizing lotions, or a wet washcloth. Be sure to wear shoes to prevent parasitic infections and to protect yourself from cuts and puncture wounds that can easily become infected.