Author: Dannelle Gay

Best Handheld Radio for Survival: Top Picks for 2023

Handheld radios are essential for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and survivalists. They provide a reliable means of communication when you’re off the grid, and in case of an emergency, they can be a lifesaver.

When it comes to survival situations, a handheld radio is a must-have item in your survival kit. But with so many options available, choosing the best one can be a daunting task.

Best Handheld Radio for Survival: Top Picks for 2023

The critical thing to keep in mind when selecting the best handheld radio for survival is its range. You need a radio that can transmit and receive signals over long distances, especially in remote areas where cell phone coverage is limited.

The size and weight of the radio are also essential factors to consider, as you want something lightweight and compact that won’t weigh you down during extended hikes or emergency situations.

After researching and testing various handheld radios, we’ve identified the top models that offer the best range, durability, and ease of use for survival situations. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, our recommendations will help you find the perfect handheld radio for your needs.

Best Handheld Radios for Survival

When it comes to survival situations, communication is key. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or facing an emergency, a reliable handheld radio can help you stay in touch with the outside world. We’ve researched and tested the best handheld radios on the market to bring you our top picks for survival situations.

Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip CB Radio

Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip CB Radio

If you’re planning a road trip and want to stay connected, the Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip CB Radio is a great choice.

Pros

  • The magnetic mount antenna allows you to operate the radio from inside your vehicle, providing a clear connection.
  • The Soundtracker System improves transmission and reception by filtering through 90% of noise.
  • The built-in NOAA Weather Radio Channel keeps you updated on weather conditions, emergencies, and incoming hazards.

Cons

  • The radio requires 9 AA batteries to operate, which are included, but it would have been nice to see rechargeable batteries included instead.
  • The range is not very far, but a better antenna could help improve it.
  • The magnet on the antenna is not very strong, so it may not stay in place on a bumpy road.

The Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip CB Radio is a reliable communication tool that is not dependent on satellites or cellular networks. It provides access to up to 40 CB radio channels and can scan to find the one with the best signal with the touch of a button. The Dual Watch feature allows you to program your radio to monitor two pre-selected channels at once, providing maximum awareness.

The Omni-Directional Microphone allows for voices to be picked up from all directions, providing a more natural sound and handling high sound pressure levels. It is also less sensitive to wind, pop, or handling noise.

Overall, the Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip CB Radio is a great choice for those looking for a reliable communication tool on their next road trip.

Uniden PRO501HH Pro-Series Portable Handheld CB Radio

Uniden PRO501HH Pro-Series Portable Handheld CB Radio

If you’re looking for a reliable and compact handheld CB radio for survival, the Uniden PRO501HH Pro-Series Portable Handheld CB Radio is a great option.

Pros

  • Compact design for easy portability
  • High and low power modes to conserve battery life
  • NOAA weather alerts keep you informed of severe weather conditions

Cons

  • Stock antenna is not very powerful
  • Plastic belt clip may weaken over time
  • Portable antenna doesn’t offer usable range when inside a vehicle

This handheld CB radio is perfect for industrial, commercial, and off-road use, thanks to its high-performance full 40-channel CB operation and 10 weather channels. The compact and rugged design makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go.

The Uniden PRO501HH Pro-Series Portable Handheld CB Radio features selectable 4 Watt Hi/1 Watt low power modes, which allows you to punch out the strongest signal when you need it, or conserve battery life when you don’t. The dual watch feature also lets you talk on one channel while keeping an ear on another channel you’re interested in.

This radio also features built-in ANL (Automatic Noise Limiter) and squelch control to fine-tune performance and eliminate noise. The large backlit LCD multifunction display makes it easy to read day or night, and the external speaker jack and external mic jack offer added convenience.

The Uniden PRO501HH Pro-Series Portable Handheld CB Radio is a reliable and compact option for anyone in need of a handheld CB radio for survival. Its high and low power modes, NOAA weather alerts, and compact design make it a great choice for anyone who spends time off the grid.

Mesqool Auto NOAA Digital 5000 Weather Radio

Mesqool Auto NOAA Digital 5000 Weather Radio

This is a great product for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile weather radio that can also charge their phone in an emergency.

Pros

  • The digital tuner is accurate and easy to use, and the large backlit LCD screen displays all the information you need.
  • The auto/manual NOAA weather alert preset and WX timer are very useful features that will keep you informed and safe during severe weather events.
  • With five power options, including a rechargeable built-in battery, solar panel, manual winding up handle, micro USB input, and 3 AAA batteries, you’ll never be without power.

Cons

  • The radio’s sound quality is not the best, and it may be difficult to hear in noisy environments.
  • The antenna is a bit flimsy and may require some careful handling to avoid damage.
  • The flashlight and reading lamp are not very bright, and the SOS mode is extremely loud and may be disruptive.

Overall, the Mesqool Auto NOAA Digital 5000 Weather Radio is a reliable and versatile device that is perfect for anyone who needs a weather radio and emergency phone charger. It has a lot of great features and is very easy to use, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies.

OnLyee Emergency Weather Radio

OnLyee Emergency Weather Radio

This emergency radio is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable, reliable, and durable survival radio.

Pros

  • The NOAA weather radio feature is certified by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, ensuring that you receive the latest weather information about your located area from 7 NOAA stations with clear sound.
  • The radio has 5 ways to power backup in case of power outages, including a built-in 5000 rechargeable battery, USB charging, solar panel, hand-crank, and 3 AAA batteries. This means that you can use it for days during power outages and never have to worry about battery life.
  • The flashlight radio has a 3W LED flash light and 2.5W reading light, which can help you see and find things you need in the dark during an emergency power outage. It also has an emergency SOS button, which activates a loud alarm and a flashing red signal light by holding it.

Cons

  • The dials and buttons are flimsy and may not hold up well over time.
  • The radio may not pick up as many channels as other radios on the market.
  • The design may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other radios.

This OnLyee Emergency Weather Radio is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, portable, and durable survival radio. With its 5 ways to power backup, you can rest assured that you will always have power when you need it. The flashlight and reading light are also great features to have in an emergency.

However, the flimsy dials and buttons may not hold up well over time, and the radio may not pick up as many channels as other radios on the market. Overall, this is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable survival radio.

Aivica Emergency Hand Crank Radio

Aivica Emergency Hand Crank Radio

If you’re looking for a reliable handheld radio for survival, the Aivica Emergency Hand Crank Radio should definitely be on your list.

Pros

  • Huge 10000mAh power bank for emergency phone charging
  • Portable and comes with SOS alarm function
  • Three ways to charge: Type-C, solar, and hand crank

Cons

  • Actual usage time may differ from testing report data
  • NOAA reception may be poor in rural areas
  • The reading lamp could be brighter

This radio is practical and portable, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or trekking. It has a nylon strap for easy carrying and comes with an SOS alarm function. The compass on top of the radio is also very helpful for identifying direction.

The Aivica Emergency Hand Crank Radio has a huge 10000mAh power bank, which can provide enough emergency power for important contacting assistance in emergency. It has three ways to charge, including Type-C, solar, and hand crank, so you never have to worry about running out of power.

The flashlight has three LED modes and is very practical for lighting in the dark. It also has a reading lamp with soft lighting, making it perfect for reading indoors with family.

Overall, the Aivica Emergency Hand Crank Radio is a great emergency kit for tornadoes, tsunamis, wildfire, hurricane, and snowstorm. It’s also a great gift idea for anyone you love.

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Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Radio for Survival

When it comes to choosing the best, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your decision:

Durability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a handheld radio for survival is durability. You want a radio that can withstand harsh weather conditions, drops, and other potential hazards. Look for radios that are built with tough materials and have an IP rating of at least IPX5, which means they are water-resistant.

Range

Another important feature to consider is the range of the radio. You want a radio that can transmit and receive signals over long distances, so look for models with a range of at least 2 miles. However, keep in mind that the range can be affected by terrain, obstacles, and other factors.

Battery Life

Battery life is another important factor to consider when choosing a handheld radio for survival. You want a radio with a long battery life, so you don’t have to worry about it dying when you need it most. Look for radios with a battery life of at least 8 hours.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the radio are also important factors to consider. You want a radio that is small and lightweight enough to carry with you wherever you go, but not so small that it’s difficult to use. Look for radios that are compact and easy to handle.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some radios come with built-in flashlights, weather alerts, and other useful features that can come in handy during an emergency. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons of these features before making your final decision.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Handheld Radio for Survival

What are the key features to look for in a handheld radio for survival purposes?

When choosing a handheld radio for survival purposes, it is important to look for certain key features. These include a durable and waterproof design, a long battery life, a wide range of frequencies, and the ability to receive NOAA weather alerts.

Which brand makes the most reliable handheld radios for survival situations?

There are several brands that are known for producing reliable handheld radios for survival situations. These include Yaesu, Icom, and Kenwood. However, the most reliable brand may vary depending on individual needs and preferences.

What is the maximum range of the best handheld radios for survival?

The maximum range of a handheld radio for survival purposes can vary greatly depending on factors such as terrain, weather, and the power output of the radio. However, the best handheld radios for survival typically have a range of at least several miles.

Are there any handheld radios that are waterproof and durable enough for survival situations?

Yes, there are several handheld radios that are designed to be both waterproof and durable enough for survival situations. Some examples include the Yaesu FT-60R, the Icom IC-F60V, and the Kenwood TH-D74A.

What is the battery life of the top-rated handheld radios for survival?

The battery life of the top-rated handheld radios for survival can vary depending on factors such as usage and battery type. However, the best handheld radios for survival typically have a battery life of at least several hours to several days.

Can a handheld ham radio be used for survival communication purposes?

Yes, a handheld ham radio can be used for survival communication purposes. Ham radios have a wide range of frequencies and can be used to communicate with other ham radio operators in emergency situations. However, it is important to note that a license is required to operate a ham radio.

Best Survival Whistle for Emergency Situations

Survival whistles are essential tools for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. They are designed to produce a loud, high-pitched sound that can be heard from a distance, making them ideal for attracting attention in case of an emergency. The best survival whistle should be durable, lightweight, and easy to use.

Best Survival Whistle for Emergency Situations

When looking for a survival whistle, it’s important to consider the material it’s made of. The most common materials are plastic, aluminum, and titanium. Plastic whistles are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as metal whistles.

Aluminum whistles are lightweight and durable, but they may corrode over time. Titanium whistles are the most durable and corrosion-resistant, but they can be expensive.

Another important factor to consider is the loudness of the whistle. The loudness is measured in decibels (dB), and the higher the dB rating, the louder the whistle. A good survival whistle should have a dB rating of at least 100.

We spent hours researching and testing various survival whistles to identify the best one for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Survival Whistles

When it comes to survival situations, having the right tools can make all the difference. One of the most important tools to have is a reliable survival whistle. A good whistle can help you signal for help, alert others to your location, and even scare off potential predators. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best survival whistles on the market to help you find the one that’s right for you.

Michael Josh Survival Whistle

Michael Josh Survival Whistle

If you’re looking for a reliable and loud survival whistle, the Michael Josh Survival Whistle is a great option.

Pros

  • Louder Sound: Double tubes can provide up to 150 decibels, can be heard for far distances.
  • Strong and Durable: Stainless steel material ensures the whistle’s durability.
  • Good Environmental Adaptability: The whistle has no built-in pea, so it will not mold and breed bacteria because of the pea. You can use it in any dust or dirty water environment.

Cons

  • May be too loud for some users.
  • The carabiner is not very strong.
  • The whistle may be difficult to use in windy conditions.

This whistle is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and sports. It’s also great for dog training or as an emergency whistle. The loud sound can be heard from far distances, making it a reliable tool in case of an emergency.

The Michael Josh Survival Whistle is made of stainless steel, ensuring its durability. It’s also designed to be used in any environment, including dusty or dirty water environments, without the risk of mold or bacteria growth.

Although the whistle is loud and reliable, it may be too loud for some users. Additionally, the carabiner that comes with the whistle may not be very strong, so it’s recommended to use a stronger carabiner if necessary. Finally, the whistle may be difficult to use in windy conditions due to its design.

Overall, the Michael Josh Survival Whistle is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and loud survival whistle. With its durable construction and environmental adaptability, it’s a tool that you can trust in any situation.

SHvivik Emergency Whistle

SHvivik Emergency Whistle

If you’re looking for a reliable emergency whistle, SHvivik’s product is worth considering.

Pros

  • The double-tube design is incredibly loud, making it easy to catch someone’s attention from a distance.
  • Made from aluminum alloy, it’s durable and designed to withstand harsh conditions.
  • The whistle comes with a keychain and hanging rope, so you can easily attach it to your backpack or belt.

Cons

  • Blowing the whistle requires a bit more effort than some other models.
  • The whistle only produces one loud volume, which may not be ideal for all situations.
  • The two whistles included in the package may not be identical in terms of loudness.

The SHvivik Emergency Whistle is a solid choice for anyone who wants a reliable, durable, and loud whistle for outdoor activities. The double-tube design ensures that it’s loud enough to be heard from a distance, while the aluminum alloy construction ensures that it will last for years to come. The keychain and hanging rope make it easy to carry with you wherever you go.

That said, blowing the whistle requires a bit more effort than some other models, so it may not be the best choice for those with limited lung capacity. Additionally, the whistle only produces one loud volume, which may not be ideal for all situations.

Finally, the two whistles included in the package may not be identical in terms of loudness, which could be an issue if you need to rely on them in an emergency.

Overall, however, the SHvivik Emergency Whistle is a solid choice for anyone who wants a reliable, durable, and loud whistle for outdoor activities.

LuxoGear Emergency Whistles with Lanyard Safety Whistle Survival Shrill Loud Blast for Kayak Life Vest Jacket Boating Fishing Boat Camping Hiking Hunting Rescue Signaling Kids Lifeguard Plastic 2 Pack Orange

LuxoGear Emergency Whistles

If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality survival whistle, LuxoGear Emergency Whistles are an excellent choice.

Pros

  • This whistle is VERY LOUD, so it’s sure to catch the attention of everyone within a mile at least.
  • It’s EASY TO BLOW, making it much better than yelling for help in an emergency.
  • The ADJUSTABLE REFLECTIVE LANYARD and CLIP make it high visibility even in the dark, and it’s easy to loop through backpack, sailboats, camp hike gear, life jacket, kayak PFD, paddling paddle board, bike. You can also clip the whistle to your belt or shoulder straps for quick and easy use in case of emergency.

Cons

  • Some users may find the high-pitched sound of this whistle unpleasant.
  • The plastic construction may not be as durable as metal whistles.
  • The adjustable lanyard may not fit comfortably around larger necks.

LuxoGear Emergency Whistles are an essential item for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re hiking, camping, boating, or hunting, this whistle is sure to come in handy in case of an emergency. The pealess design ensures that there are no moving parts to obstruct sound, and the high airflow design makes it easy to blow, even in cold environments.

The adjustable lanyard and clip make this whistle easy to carry with you wherever you go, and the bright orange color and reflective lanyard make it highly visible, even in low-light conditions.

The durable, high-impact ABS plastic construction ensures that this whistle will last for years to come, and the fact that it’s waterproof and moisture-resistant means that you can rely on it in any weather conditions.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable survival whistle, LuxoGear Emergency Whistles are an excellent choice. They’re easy to use, highly visible, and built to last, making them a must-have item for any outdoor adventurer.

CooBigo Emergency Whistles

CooBigo Emergency Whistles

This is a great product to have on hand for outdoor adventures or emergency situations.

Pros

  • The double tube design produces a loud and powerful sound that can easily attract attention.
  • The unique design means that there are no parts inside the whistle that can interfere with its performance or be destroyed.
  • The adjustable lanyard and slide buckle make it easy to wear and access in case of an emergency.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the whistle is not as loud as they had hoped.
  • The plastic material may not be as durable as other materials such as metal.
  • The whistle may not be as effective in extreme weather conditions.

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable survival whistle, the CooBigo Emergency Whistles are a great choice. The double tube design ensures a loud and powerful sound that can easily attract attention, while the unique design means that there are no parts inside the whistle that can interfere with its performance or be destroyed. The adjustable lanyard and slide buckle make it easy to wear and access in case of an emergency.

In terms of cons, some users have reported that the whistle is not as loud as they had hoped, which may make it less effective in certain situations. Additionally, the plastic material may not be as durable as other materials such as metal, and the whistle may not be as effective in extreme weather conditions. However, overall, the CooBigo Emergency Whistles are a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable survival whistle.

Noopel Emergency Whistles

Noopel Emergency Whistles

If you’re looking for a reliable and loud whistle for emergency situations, Noopel Emergency Whistles are a great option.

Pros

  • Loudest whistle – can be heard from a long distance away
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Versatile – can be used for camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, and more

Cons

  • Not suitable for children under 6 years old
  • May attract bears in bear country
  • May not be as durable as some other whistles

Noopel Emergency Whistles are made of high-quality aluminum alloy material, making them strong and durable. They are also lightweight, weighing only 12g, which makes them easy to carry with you wherever you go. The whistle’s keychain design is perfect for use with house keys or car keys, making it convenient to have with you at all times.

One of the best features of Noopel Emergency Whistles is their loudness. With double tubes, they can provide up to about 120 decibels, which is loud enough to be heard at a long distance away. This makes them ideal for use in emergency situations where you need to call for help.

While Noopel Emergency Whistles are versatile and can be used for a variety of outdoor activities, they are not suitable for children under 6 years old. Additionally, if you are in bear country, small whistles like these may attract bears, so it’s important to be cautious.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and loud whistle for emergency situations, Noopel Emergency Whistles are a great choice. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and versatile, making them a great addition to your outdoor gear.

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Buying Guide for the Best Survival Whistle

When looking for the best survival whistle, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Loudness

The most important feature of a survival whistle is how loud it is. Look for a whistle with a decibel rating of at least 100, as this will ensure that it can be heard from a distance. Some whistles can reach up to 120 decibels, which is extremely loud and can be heard over long distances.

Durability

A survival whistle should be made from durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling. Look for whistles made from materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, as these are strong and rust-resistant.

Portability

A survival whistle should be small and lightweight so that it can be easily carried in a pocket or attached to a keychain or backpack. Look for whistles that are compact and weigh no more than a few ounces.

Additional Features

Some survival whistles come with additional features, such as built-in compasses or thermometers. While these features can be useful, they are not essential and should not be the main factor in choosing a whistle.

Price

Survival whistles can range in price from a few dollars to over $50. While a higher price tag may indicate better quality, it is not always necessary to spend a lot of money to get a good whistle. Look for a whistle that meets your needs and fits within your budget.

FeatureImportance
LoudnessVery important
DurabilityVery important
PortabilityImportant
Additional FeaturesNot essential
PriceConsider your budget

Overall, when choosing a survival whistle, prioritize loudness and durability. Look for a whistle that is portable and fits within your budget. Additional features can be helpful, but they should not be the main factor in your decision-making.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Survival Whistle

What is the loudest safety whistle?

The Fox 40 Classic Whistle is known for being the loudest safety whistle. It can produce up to 115 decibels of sound, which can be heard from a distance of up to a mile away.

Which is the world best whistle?

There are many great whistles on the market, but the Acme Thunderer Whistle is considered by many to be the world’s best whistle. It is used by referees, coaches, and officials around the world, and is known for its loud, clear sound.

What is the best emergency whistle?

The best emergency whistle is one that is loud, durable, and easy to use. The Storm Whistle is a popular choice for emergency situations, as it can produce up to 130 decibels of sound and is designed to work in any weather conditions.

What is the best hiking whistle?

When it comes to hiking, you want a whistle that is lightweight and easy to carry. The SOL Rescue Howler Whistle is a great option, as it weighs just a few grams and can be heard from up to a mile away.

What is the best titanium whistle?

Titanium is a great material for whistles, as it is lightweight and durable. The Vargo Titanium Whistle is a popular choice for hikers and campers, as it is both loud and easy to carry.

What is the best emergency whistle for kayaking?

When kayaking, you want a whistle that is waterproof and can be heard over the sound of rushing water. The NRS Fox 40 Whistle is a popular choice for kayakers, as it is waterproof and can produce up to 115 decibels of sound.

Ultimate List Of Survival Tools & Emergency Prep Items

Survival Tools and Emergency Prep Items are a must for many.  Whether you are preparing for the occasional state of emergency that comes with severe weather, or you are in the category of long-term preppers these tips are great.  Being able to prepare to protect and provide for your family no matter what happens is a great tool we all need.  These posts are going to give you a great beginning.

Don't miss the Ultimate List of Survival Tools & Emergency Prep Items you need for your Bug out Bag! These tips will help emergency preppers succeed!

Ultimate List of Survival Tools & Emergency Prep Items

What is a Bug Out Location and Why You Need One?  Answer the question everyone asks when they hear the words “bug out”!  This will help you understand more about what an emergency prepper needs and does.

How to Build a Bug Out Bag: This list of tips is shared from the point of view of someone who has built many bug out bags for use in that just in case instance.  A bug out bag is a must, and we share how to create your own.

Emergency Prep Bug Out Bags:  In one of our first posts about emergency prepping, this helps you to know what survival tools we personally keep in our bug out bags and why we keep them.

Disaster Survival Preparedness Tips: This is a great place to start if you are just at the beginning of your preppinig journey. It gives you a rough outline on what to consider and look into.

How to Properly Store Water:  Water is life and in an emergency situation it can be the one thing you need the most.  We share how to properly store water to have on hand in an emergency. This post shares all about how to recognize signs of dehydration and why you need to have a prep of water on hand.  This goes perfectly with the above post showing you how to store water safely.

8 Must Have Supplies for Canning Your Own Food:  One major method of having enough food on hand in an emergency is by home canning fruits, vegetables, and even meats.  Check out this post for more tips on how to can as well as what you need on hand to make it happen safely.

15 of the Best Disaster Movies Worth Watching: It is amazing what tips and tricks we can pick up from Hollywood movies. Check out our suggsted list of “must-see” movies for your home education on prepping!

DIY Home Security for Preppers:  Do you ever consider that in a state of emergency there may be more theft or home invasions?  If so, this is for you.  Every home needs a home security method in place.

Natural Antibiotics for Preppers:  In major states of emergency, having health care may be impossible.  These items are a must to have on hand to use as a natural antibiotic safely without fear of expiration dates or need for a physician on hand.

Why Your Family Should Have a Stockpile?  Many don’t understand why we keep a stockpile of food.  This post will help you understand the reasons behind it and need for it in your life.

How to Keep Your Stockpile from Expiring?  Stockpiling food and drink for emergency use can be a frustration if you have expiration dates making the products unusable.  Don’t miss these tips for how to keep your stockpile from expiring.

Emergency Preparedness Tips for Pets: Do you have furry little family members? It is important to consider them too in your emergency preparation plans!

Alternative Heat Sources for Power Outages: Depending on where you live, this can be a huge issue! In Wisconsin, it can snow eight months out of the year, so heat is VERY imporant to keep us safe and comfortable.

How To Prepare A Winter Home Safety Kit: It goes without saying that winter can be a terrible time to deal with power outages, food shortages, and more. This article is for you!

Emergency Winter Car Survival Kit: Keeping with our winter theme, this is what you should have in your car, just in case you fined yourself stuck somewhere on the road!

Emergency Prep Food:  This post tells you more about what we recommend for emergency food and why.  There are many amazing options out there, but this is our favorite source.

Things to Learn During Quarantine: is a great list of things all preppers really should know. Use this lilst to fill in your skills when you find yourself with time on your hands.

How to Prepare Your Family for a Financial Emergency:  One of the most needed survival tools for an emergency prepper is actually financial.  These tips help you to plan for a financial emergency, and why it is a must no matter what level of prepper you feel that you are.

10 Creative Entertainment Ideas for Kids during a Pandemic: This is a great list of things to help entertain the kiddos when life is not “normal” and what you used to do simply won’t work.

10 Awesome Websites Preppers Love:  If you really want to learn more about emergency prepping and what survival tools you are lacking, check out this list of our favorite websites just for preppers.  Emergency prepping is a wonderful way to learn more about things you need in your life.

10 Power Outage Boredom Busters:  Part of prepping for an emergency is also being ready to kill time when there is no electricity, internet, or other electronic entertainment options.  This will help you to be prepared, and maybe find some things your family will enjoy outside the

How to Prepare Your Family for a Flood:  Nobody wants to think about a flood happening, but if you live in an area that has a lot of rainfall seasonally, this could be your reality.  It is always best to be prepared, and our tips give you a great place to begin.

10 Ways to Prep For Summer Storms:  Summer storms can be beautiful to watch, but they surely wreak havoc on your life and family.  Check out our tips for how to prep to stay safe and sheltered no matter the storm.

United States Disaster Relief Organizations That Help: I really can’t advocate relying on other people for help, but here is a list of places in the US that are there for us.

These survival tools and emergency prep ideas are just what you need if you find yourself in the category of becoming an emergency prepper.  Don’t wait until it is too late. Begin prepping today!

How to Grow Your Emergency Fund According to Dave Ramsey

It may seem like a daunting task, to grow your emergency fund but Dave Ramsey’s methods take the confusion out of it all. There are a few different ways to add money to your emergency fund without stressing and making sure all other bills are paid.

How to Grow Your Emergency Fund According to Dave Ramsey

Simple ways to grow your emergency fund according to Dave Ramsey:

If there is even the smallest spot in the budget you can slim down. Cut out the gym memberships you may not be using now that the weather has changed. This will help you add a little extra money to your growing emergency fund.

Make simple cuts in your budget​

5 Painless Ways to Cut Household Expenses

When we talk about painless ways to cut household expenses, the first piece of advice that always gets thrown out is “stop drinking $5 coffees every day”. Well, if you’re anything like me, you were never drinking $5 coffees every day anyway! $5 is a lot of money and it adds up fast.

Cutting household expenses and adjusting to a new budget doesn’t have to be too uncomfortable. Let’s talk about easy ways to make some simple financial changes for long-term success.

Conduct an audit.

The first step in saving money is to figure out what’s coming in, what’s going out, and most importantly, where it’s all going. Print off your bank statements for the past 3 to 6 months. If you’ve already made some recent changes, 3 months of bank statements will do. If you really want to dig in and figure out where your money has been running off to, print the full 6 months.

Grab a few highlighters and go through your bank statements line by line. Set it up however you want, but for example, you can use pink for income, yellow for necessary expenses, and green for unnecessary expenses or items to cut out.

Next, go through all of the unnecessary expenses and figure out which ones will be the least painful to cut. Make a list of which expenses we will cut first, second, third, and so on.

You can do this in phases so it’s not a huge change all at once. If you have big leaks in your budget and are drowning in debt, you should take this process more seriously and cut expenses as much as possible right away.

e found a great book to help keep this all straight: Busy Family Bill Organizer.

Grow Your Emergency Fund: Patch the leaks.

Rather than quitting everything cold turkey and cutting out all of your expenses at once (which isn’t realistic in the long-term), make small changes to “patch the leaks”, so to speak. Any money that’s unaccounted for month to month is a leak. Any money that goes to fast food unnecessarily is a leak.

Some leaks you may not think about at first may include utilities, food, and entertainment expenses. This doesn’t mean you have to cut out entertainment completely, or that you have to switch to the off-brand for all of your food.

It just means you’re going to be aware of where every single penny of your income is going, so you can make sure it’s accounted for and being spent responsibly. Everyone should have an entertainment budget, and nobody should have to eat off-brand bread! 😉

Negotiate Utilities

Cable, internet, and cell phone bills can make up a large chunk of your monthly expenses if you’re not careful. If you use the internet for work, downgrading to a slower internet speed isn’t practical. However, you can easily cut the cable and get Netflix or Hulu if TV is a priority to you.

Call your cell phone company and negotiate a lower rate. Ask about military or veteran discounts, AARP discounts, etc. Any discount they may have, see if you can get it! Some companies even offer discounts for law enforcement, first responders, and teachers. If the discounts are there and you qualify, you might as well utilize them.

Grow Your Emergency Fund: Watch your food expenses.

Even if you aren’t eating fast food every day, grocery bills alone add up fast. Our grocery bill was drastically reduced once we started meal planning and using curbside pick-up services. Ordering your food online and picking it up outside the store may be one of the best money-saving inventions ever.

Using curbside pick-up means no more last-minute impulse purchases in the checkout line. It means no more Target runs that should have been $50 but were more like $200!

Reevaluate entertainment costs.

How much are you spending on entertainment each month? Whether it’s a Playstation subscription or video game or going to the movies or bowling, what’s your budget? If you don’t have one yet, now is the time to work on creating one.

Like I said earlier, entertainment is important. We don’t need to cut it off completely, but being aware of how much we are spending and making sure it relates to how much it enhances our life is a critical step to cutting household expenses.

One last thing to check, if you didn’t with your audit, is your recurring subscriptions via Paypal. Also check your Cash App, Zelle, or other payment methods you use. The idea is to track every single dollar that comes in and goes out. Once you start doing this one simple thing, the rest falls into place rather seamlessly!

Grow Your Emergency Fund: Sell something​

There can be a lot of stuff around your house that you no longer use. This is a great idea if you’re thinking of trying to downsize as well. Take an allotted amount of time to just check around your house, in the kids’ rooms, up in the attic; you’re sure to find something.

You can take some time to set up a few signs to do the marketing for you if you’re thinking of having a yard sale. Remember to make items your selling appealing to potential buyers; such as filling basketballs with air and simply cleaning the dust off any items.

This could be a great way to sell your things then you won’t have to list the items online to be sold. This would be the perfect time to sell things you no longer use or need to help pad your emergency fund.

Find additional income opportunities​

Maybe you’re only working part-time or maybe you’re already working full-time. Getting another job will solely help your emergency fund if you choose to let it. It can be anywhere from a part-time job to only a few extra hours a week.

You can find a one-time additional income opportunity if you look. You can be a babysitter, dog walker or sitter if you love dogs, or a freelance writer, or maybe a graphic designer. Anything that draws your attention or something you’re already good at.

The beauty of all your hard work is that all the extra money you’re making is going towards your emergency fund. You can choose to become your own boss by joining a direct sell company you’re interested in.

If you choose to direct sell a lot of companies allow you to build a team, which could earn you even more money for your fund.

Grow Your Emergency Fund: Get another job​

Getting another job is a great way to line the emergency fund as well as giving you something to do with your free time.

You can drive for companies like UberEats, or you can create your own streams of income online like hundreds of thousands of others do every day. No matter what your financial situation is, it can improve with planning and budgeting!

If you are wanting to grow your emergency fund then you’ll have to be willing to go the extra mile. Any of these ideas are a great way to get you where you’d like to be within your emergency fund.

Other articles you may find helpful:

When Sun Prairie Exploded… #SunPrairieStrong

When Sun Prairie Exploded. It seems just like yesterday… It was a typical summer evening here, except Miss Sarah was away at camp. We were watching a movie on TV and not only heard a large noise, but the entire house shook.

Think of all your windows and doors rattling at the same time, almost sounding like someone threw a big fat old-fashioned phone book against them. Andy went outside and could see the cloud of smoke coming from downtown, we had no idea that Sun Prairie exploded.

When Sun Prairie Exploded

Being a Desert Storm Vet, my mind tends to go to the worst-case scenario when I hear a large bang. Add a giant cloud of black smoke? It makes me happy that I have a full pantry, bug-out bags, and a large first aid kit.

Was it a bomb? That kept going through my head as so many bomb attacks and shootings have been all over the news lately… we were to learn soon that there was no attack, just human error at fault.

Andy, working for the local NBC station, grabbed his phone and took off towards “the hot zone”. All members of his work staff have a special app where they can directly link feeds to the station and he knew he would be on site a lot faster than the news truck from the west side of Madison.

I was torn about him running into the unknown until the station confirmed over the phone that a building blew up.

The gas leak was reported at 6:21 pm – a sub contractor for Verizon was working on fiber optic cable and hit a gas main. People who saw it said it was like a geyser shooting up, followed soon by a horrible smell. People quickly evacuated the area.

Shortly after that, the explosion was triggered and an entire building was just gone, with fire two stories tall attacking the space and surrounding buildings.

Mr Rogers always said:

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

Mr Rogers

That is so true of this community. The helpers came out in droves. Even our local police media liaison, Lt. Konopacki,  choked up at a press conference when he mentioned how people weren’t coming up asking what happened, but asking what they could do to help.

Volunteers helped direct traffic, pulled residents out of the local nursing home so they could be moved to Dean Clinic, brought supplies to the temporary shelters for evacuees, knocked on doors to get people out of the danger zone, and so much more.

Seriously, the list goes on and on about how people pulled together to make sure everyone was safe as the fires raged on.

The ripple effect?

Businesses gone, businesses closed, people displaced, and one person dead.

Patrick DePula, who owns Salvatore’s, said he couldn’t wait to get back into his building for clean up. They lost their front windows, along with most main street businesses, and knew he had a mess to clean up as no power + hot weather + a few days with all that food still sitting out on tables and the kitchen was sure to equal a large mess.

salvatores pizza of Sun Prairie after the gas explosion

They are a small business that is loosing income every hour they are closed and still want to help out. From their facebook post:

Dear Sun Prairie,

It’s been a rough week and I’m emotionally spent. Our restaurant is now behind a security fence, and can only be accessed with police and fire escort. They call it the hot zone. I can’t even access the building to board up the windows.
Everything is as it was when we evacuated on Tuesday. There is food and drinks on every table. No power. I can’t help but be reminded of the city of Pompeii. Walking through the restaurant I couldn’t help but notice little vignettes of the time before the earth shook and an explosion took the life of a good man.

A pizza and pasta dishes on a table. Glasses of wine. A half finished kids Mac and cheese next to a wiki stix project. The air is now beginning to be redolent of rotten seafood and warm garlic. And it seems filled with ghosts. Ultimately I was able to get items that employees left behind during the evacuation.

We poured not only our lives into this place, but also all of our resources. Seeing it broken, battered and abandoned is heart breaking. This is one of our busiest times of the year and we have no income at the moment. I’m being called every day for food donations and fundraisers, and…I don’t even have a functioning kitchen. But we want to help in any way we can. It’s in our blood!

So Saturday our whole staff will be cooking for first responders, and families. All of us are pitching in. We’re still trying to round up food even though Wisconsin beef, pork and chicken along with 800 lbs of cheese are going to waste in our powerless coolers. The amount of food we will toss is staggering to me. But again, we’re safe. It just pains me to not be able to put all of that to good use in the community. But we’ve got commitments for 200 lbs of heritage pork and sausage among other items. We will provide food and the labor to cook it to feed the bravest of people on Saturday.

We run on fairly slim margins at Sal’s as we proudly use local ingredients and insist upon a labor intensive hand-made food model. We don’t have conveyor belt ovens and bake directly on a brick hearth, with fire. It takes constant attention and skill in order to get good results, but that is the only way we know how to do it. Because of this our expenses are much higher than similar restaurants. And that is more than ok.

Anyway…what I’m trying to say is that we’re used to giving when asked. Freely and usually without limit. But it’s hard for us right now…and honestly? that isn’t a good feeling. If you’ve got a fundraiser in mind, we’d love to do it. We’d like nothing more than to help. But give us a week or so to hopefully clean up our mess and sort things out. We’re missing way more than half of our income right now but our expenses remain the same if not more.

Payroll is coming up, Insurance hasn’t kicked in, and we are still reeling from our flood damage that closed us for lunch for two weeks in May. We thought that was a particularly terrible disaster while experiencing it but compared to this? A mere inconvenience. Compared to what some other sun prairie business owners and residents are going through, our current plight is also.

At this time, we need to take care of our team, and frankly, this is a pretty scary moment for us. We don’t yet know when we can open again. I haven’t slept since Monday night and didn’t see my kids until today. Our tenants remain displaced and the thought of that is weighing on me. Thank you, friends, for your support. It means a lot to have heard from many of you. Your words of encouragement are appreciated. Once we’re operating we want to do something big…to help as many people as we can. But at this moment We can’t even bus our frozen-in-time tables. And we can’t wait to be back to doing what we do best. #sunprairiestrong

Most sincerely,
Patrick, Nichole, John, Madeliene Jon and everyone else at Sal’s.

The blocked off area of damaged buildings after the explosion

He is one of the luckier ones downtown as more buildings caught fire and some families lost their homes…one person lost his life. He still has a building to go back to, unlike the owner of the Glass Nickel, who is talking about rebuilding.

When Sun Prairie Exploded, help came in droves

Multiple response agencies, including the Red Cross, have shelters setup at local schools and churches for those who were in the half mile radius of the blast and not allowed back into their homes yet. The gas company was afraid that the leak was going to travel through the sewer lines and the possibility of more explosions.

They are still working their way through the evacuation area and slowly, people are being allowed to go back home or go into their homes and get things that are needed. (Just another reason to have a bug out bag…)

While I know our little town has made the National News, I can’t help but be proud of our little community.

  • Girl Scouts were doing lemonade stands and a brat fry to add to the fund for the family of the local firefighter who passed away, the sole casualty of this event. Cory Barr was a Captain of the local department and went back into the building that blew up – we can only guess that he wanted to make sure everyone got out. The State Governor ordered the flags to be half-mast for him.
  • Duane Sprecher, the owner of the local Culver’s, put together a bunch of meals for the first responders and people at shelters.
  • From surrounding communities, different first responders like Fire Fighters, EMTs, and Police officers have been coming to town to ask if there was anything they could do to help.
  • A collection drive has been established to help the families that lost everything. (Thank you, Kase, from Cherry Pie)

The explosion on Tuesday left people with almost nothing. They came home from work or sports practice or marching band rehearsal to discover they owned nothing but what they’re wearing. There’s been a lot of local help for shelter and food, but they’re running out of next-step stuff awfully fast.

Sunshine Place and CARDS Closet are low on toiletries, toothbrushes/toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner. They’re low on fresh socks and underwear of all sizes, from toddlers up to young adults. Girls’ shorts & t-shirts from size 5 to 10, gently used, would be welcome and useful immediately, so if you have outgrown clothes, we can put them to use.

There really is too much amazing information to share with you – my heart overflows for these amazing people.

How can YOU help?

  • Donate to the various people affected by this,  here is a link to all of the current fund requests for the families, injured firefighters,  and the fund for the Barr family – he left behind a wife and twin 3-year-old daughters. Donate Here
  • Contact the Sunshine Place to see what they need: Website HERE
  • Pray. It’s amazing how something as easy to do as praying can make a difference.
When Sun Prairie Exploded - Barr Family photo

Yes, I am crying as I write this – just thinking of all the incredible people who turned out, with flags, along the route that Cory’s body was brought back to the town’s funeral parlor.

His babies will never get hugged by them again, people’s pets that have died while their owners had to leave them behind for the evacuation, families that lost everything and so much more. It’s going to be another life milestone for us all: when Sun Prairie Exploded.

—Most Photos courtesy of Salvatore’s

Has something like this ever happened in YOUR town? How did they handle it?

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Different Ways to Use Witch Hazel

If you have wondered what people use witch hazel for, then keep reading! I have some different ways to use witch hazel when it comes to your lifestyle! This can be found by rubbing alcohol at most mass retailers or you can even buy it online, it is very affordable! So that makes it a really great multi-purpose product to have on hand! 

Ways to use Witch Hazel

I don’t know about you but I love things that are non-toxic and able to do multiple tasks. Witch Hazel is one of those gems – it can be used for oh so many things, is inexpensive, and keeps a long time for your storage.

What is Witch Hazel?

Witch-hazels or witch hazels (Hamamelis) are a genus of flowering plants in the family Hamamelidaceae, with three species in North America (H. ovalis,[1] H. virginiana, and H. vernalis), and one each in Japan (H. japonica) and China (H. mollis). The North American species are occasionally called winterbloom.[2][3]

Wikipedia

That is a lot of fancy speak to say it is a shrub. A shrub with very pretty and vibrant yellow flowers, but still – a shrub. The leaves and bark were used by Native Americans in herbalism / fold medicine.

Now the claims of everything it can do have been challenged by the FDA as it was starting to sound like a side-show medicine man act to the point that in 2017, one manufacturer of skincare products containing witch-hazel was warned for making unsubstantiated claims.

Don’t ingest Witch Hazel

There are many suggestions about how to use witch hazel as a method to reduce a sore throat. Um, don’t do that. Even Web MD says that if you take high doses by mouth, it may cause kidney or liver damage.

Add in the fact that high amounts of Witch Hazel are toxic as it is a known carcinogen? It is just a bad idea to put it IN your body. You should be more than fine with occasional uses on the outside of your body.

Witch Hazel Benefits

Let’s just take a peek at some of the things that witch hazel has been known to help.

Diaper Rash:

If you have a little one at home, you can use it to relieve diaper rash. Simply get a little on a soft cloth and pat it on your baby’s bottom.

It will help heal up the diaper rash! This is great to use all the time, or when you are out of cream and need a quick fix for your fussy baby! 

Let’s face it, who wants and itchy/sore tushy?

Razor Burn: 

I think we all have had razor burn one time or another. You can use it to relieve the burning sensation from the razor burn. Just apply with a soft cloth and it will subside the painful burn!

This will come in handy fore everything from arm pits to that more sensitive bikini zone.

Poison Ivy:

Leaves of three, let it be is only good when it is daylight and you can see it. Camping in a dark area like Peninsula State Park of Wisconsin might be a challenge if your flashlight bites it on your way to the outhouse and those flip-flops do a poor job of protecting your skin.

Once that pesky poison ivy attacks, use witch hazel to get rid of the itch! It has natural ingredients that help soothe that itch and doesn’t dry out your skin in the meantime. Just apply as needed on the troubled areas. 

Witch Hazel for Acne:

Ideally added to products for oily skin, witch hazel acts as an astringent, causing your tissues to contract to help shrink pores, while also soothing your skin and relieving inflammation.

It can be applied directly to your face after cleansing or steaming for maximum effectiveness.

Hemorrhoid Relief:

If you have hemorrhoids, you can put some witch hazel on some toilet paper and lightly dab it on your hemorrhoids. It does sting a little right at first for some people, but it goes away pretty quickly. This is a really great natural relief.

If you have never had this problem, you won’t understand why dogs drag their hineys across the carpet for relief.

Depuff Eyes:

Wake up with some bags under your eyes? Take equal parts of water and witch hazel, soap a cloth, and press it under your eyes for 10-15 minutes. This is great at de-puffing your eyes.

Stop Bleeding From Cuts: 

If you have a minor cut, you can use witch hazel to stop the bleeding. Dip a cotton swab in witch hazel and press it over the cut. It is a quick and sanitary way to stop the bleeding. If it is a pretty big cut it will not work, but works great for small nicks and cuts. 

As you can see, witch hazel can really come in handy for different situations! It is a great product to buy and have on hand for when you need it! Do you use witch hazel? If so, tell me your favorite way to use it! 

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