Patriot Pulse

09/12/2023

Quick Response First Aid Kit: This kit should be kept on or near you at all times, acting as a rapid solution while you locate your primary first aid kit. It includes:

- 1 Field trauma dressing
- 5 Band-Aids (3 small, 2 large)
- Neosporin (individual packets or a small tube)
- 1 pair of latex gloves

To keep everything dry, place all items, excluding the field dressing, in a small ziplock bag. Insert the ziplock and the field dressing into a compact pouch, such as a USGI compass pouch, or simply keep it in your pocket. Ensure that the kit is easily accessible. In group settings, make sure each person has their own quick response kit, and be familiar with its location. The general guideline is to prioritize the injured person's kit first when administering aid, reserving your kit as a backup.

06/12/2023

Myth #320: "My work is only XX miles away—I can easily cover that distance."
Prepper X may have a ballpark distance from home to work, but there's more to consider. The myth neglects factors like terrain, weather, seasons, and potential dangers. Merely estimating a straight-line distance on a map overlooks the complexities of real-world travel, especially when roads may not be a reliable option. To address this, it's wise to plan for double the anticipated distance.

To debunk this myth, preppers should physically walk the distance with their Bug Out Bag (BOB), exploring primary, alternate, and secondary routes. Assess obstacles such as flooded areas and impassable roads, taking note of overnight spots and natural barriers. Ensure tools are on hand to overcome obstacles, and verify the currency and adaptability of maps. Plan for extended supplies in case of delays due to weather or terrain. Develop navigation skills using terrain association and compass headings. Identify both areas to avoid and safe zones.

This hands-on approach shatters theoretical assumptions and reveals the practical challenges of the journey. Preppers gain invaluable insights by experiencing the route firsthand, ensuring their preparedness is grounded in reality rather than optimistic estimates.

02/12/2023

Cleaning Previously Used Containers for Water Storage: Before repurposing containers for water storage, it's crucial to determine their previous contents. Ideally, the containers should be new with original contents, like pop bottles, or sourced from a commercial entity with a known history, such as a Coca-Cola or Pepsi bottler. It is strongly advised against using containers with uncertain past usage, like those obtained from recycling centers or bins, for storing potable water.

To clean small used containers, the suggested method involves thorough rinsing, soaking with hot water multiple times, and then filling with tap water. For larger containers like barrels, it's recommended to use a Clorox and water solution (1/8 cup per gallon of water) followed by several rinses. Using detergents or other cleaning solutions is not recommended. If the containers are excessively dirty, grimy, or exhibit visible signs of algae, they should not be used unless you can ensure thorough cleaning, involving the physical removal of dirt, rather than just rinsing. Alternatively, such containers can be repurposed for non-potable water uses.

29/11/2023

POWER: Arguably the most critical aspect, but it is unfortunately often overlooked in system planning. Typically, people build their gear setups around the use of AA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. Charging methods come in two main types: AC and DC. AC chargers are suitable for home, hotel, or generator use, while DC chargers, like the Brunton SolarSport 2.2 solar panels, are effective for recharging batteries.

It is also advisable to have AC-to-DC converters on hand. These converters allow you to power DC-required equipment from an AC outlet. Various chargers are reasonably priced and can be found in stores such as Radioshack. It's recommended to have at least two distinct ways to charge and use your equipment, with three being even more beneficial. In emergencies, the availability of power sources can be uncertain.

Planning for multiple charging options, including AC, DC, and solar, aligns with Murphy's Law, increasing the likelihood of maintaining communication capabilities.

27/11/2023

SCANNER: A scanner is essential for staying aware of your surroundings. For Level 1 communications, it's recommended to have a portable handheld model. It's crucial to identify the communication systems used by local Fire, Police, EMS, and the airport. Many Police departments (State and County) use a Trunking system, allowing multiple agencies to share frequencies without interference. Therefore, choosing a scanner with the Trunking feature is preferable.

Setting up the scanner to monitor Fire, EMS, Local Police, County Police, State Police, Sheriff, FRS/GMRS, CB, Air, and various HAM frequencies creates a comprehensive package for staying informed anywhere. In emergencies, having accurate information is vital. Access to the right information enables you to make informed decisions and determine the most appropriate course of action.

23/11/2023

It's recommended for everyone to have a couple of FRS/GMRS radios on hand, as they prove useful in various situations. These radios are cost-effective and user-friendly, with Motorola models being noted for better antennas and reliability.

For those with a more serious commitment, commercial-grade radios from Icom or Yaesu surpass typical "store shelf" options but come with a higher price tag—about three to four times more. Opt for radios that use rechargeable AA batteries, not those with rechargeable battery packs. FRS/GMRS radios operate on a "line-of-sight" basis, meaning communication across mountainous terrain is limited. The higher your elevation, the better the line of sight, extending your communication range.

FRS radios have a maximum legal limit of ½ watt and don't require a license. In contrast, GMRS radios, with a legal limit of 5 watts (for handheld transmitters), require an FCC license. Obtaining the license involves downloading a form from the FCC's website, filling it out, and mailing it in with the necessary fee. The FCC will then issue your license.

20/11/2023

Despite the narrative presented by mainstream media, adopting a preparedness and self-sufficiency lifestyle doesn't necessarily mean preparing for an apocalyptic scenario.

Rather, it involves ensuring readiness for the everyday challenges that unexpectedly affect individuals who might have always believed, "it can never happen to me." This mindset usually develops after encountering a relatively minor incident personally or through someone in your network, prompting the realization that such occurrences are not exclusive and could happen to anyone, including yourself.

16/11/2023

Preppers are recognized as one of the most resourceful and responsible global communities! Here are some immediate, low-cost steps you can take to bolster your security, preparedness, and self-confidence.

Commit to turning to preparedness, rather than succumbing to panic, for problem-solving—regardless of the challenge!

Recognize that your mindset is your most priceless asset and commit to gaining knowledge that reinforces your preparedness mindset.

Discuss your plans with other adults in your household. Seek their support and establish agreements, such as a designated meeting point in the yard for a house fire, a rendezvous point in case the family cannot gather during an emergency, and nominate a contact person in a different area if the family becomes separated.

Save clean soda pop and juice bottles, add four drops of unscented Clorox, fill them with tap water, and store them in a cool, dark place.

Pack the following items in a backpack or suitcase and place them near the most frequently used door in your house:

Food: Energy bars, peanut butter, crackers, hard candy, tea bags, a small pack of coffee, and 3+ plastic bottles of water.

First Aid: A minimum 7-day supply of prescription medications, Tylenol, Imodium AD, Tums, Pepto-Bismol, burn cream, band aids, plastic wrap, cough drops, baking soda, salt, etc., using waterproof film canisters where necessary.

Clothing: 2 pairs of socks, a complete change of clothes, and walking shoes.

Miscellaneous: Hunting knife, compass, towel, plastic bag with a dry washcloth, map of the local area, list of phone numbers, 2 space blankets, a rain poncho, 50' of twine, wire, Sharpie Pen, pencil and paper, coffee filters, metal cup or bowl, sewing kit with strong thread and large needles, duct tape, signal mirror, lighters or matches and firestarter, family photos, and any other items you'd want to have with you.
Copies of all your important documents, including birth and marriage certificates, deeds, vehicle titles, immunization records, prescriptions, passport, driver's license, Social Security card, etc.

These are simple yet crucial measures that could potentially be life-saving for you and your family.

10/11/2023

Patriots, in an uncertain world, preparedness is our shield against adversity. Today, let's delve into the key aspects of building resilience and ensuring the safety of our loved ones.

1. Home Preparedness:
Our homes are our sanctuaries, and fortifying them is the first step in preparedness. Consider conducting a thorough home safety audit. Are entry points secure? Do you have a designated safe room?

2. Emergency Kits:
Every patriot should have a well-stocked emergency kit. From first aid supplies to non-perishable food items, these kits are our lifelines during crises.

3. Communication Strategies:
In times of uncertainty, communication is paramount. Share your thoughts on establishing reliable communication networks within our community. Whether it's a neighborhood watch system or a digital communication platform, staying connected ensures that vital information reaches everyone swiftly.

4. Evacuation Plans:
Having a well-thought-out evacuation plan is a cornerstone of preparedness. Discuss the importance of knowing evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and rendezvous points.

5. Training and Skill Building:
Knowledge is our greatest weapon. Encourage the community to engage in training programs and acquire essential survival skills. From basic first aid to self-defense techniques, let's empower each other with the tools needed to navigate challenging situations.

Patriots, the strength of our community lies in our preparedness and unity. By openly discussing and sharing our insights on these key aspects, we reinforce the foundation of our resilience. Together, we stand strong, ready to face whatever challenges may come our way.

16/10/2023

25/09/2023

As Biden tries to sell Americans on an economic rebound, most Americans aren't buying it, according to an exclusive poll from USA TODAY and Suffolk University’s Sawyer Business School that reveals major concerns about the state of the economy and little hope of people's outlook improving. What's worse for the incumbent president, Americans say they trust Donald Trump − not Biden − to fix it.

Groceries. Housing. Gas. All of these are pushing people further and further into debt, they say.

The poll, a survey of 1,000 U.S. adults by mobile and landline phones from Sept. 6 to Sept. 11, has a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. Interviews of poll respondents by USA TODAY underscored a nation deeply worried about the economic future.

Check the comments for the full story.

25/09/2023

Let’s be clear: Donald Trump is responsible for ending Roe v. Wade.

And if you vote for him, he’ll go even further.

25/09/2023

MAUI FIRES: Authorities will begin allowing the first residents and property owners to return to their properties in the burn zone, many for the first time since it was demolished nearly seven weeks ago, on Aug. 8, by the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century.

bit.ly/46ofDXB