Building your Ark *Lesson 13: Way to Communicate

Lesson 13: Way to Communicate

Presented by Debbie Kent

http://www.peaceofpreparedness.com/


Noah used a dove to get information he needed to know if it was safe to go out. In our day, most use cell phones. But during a disaster situation, even if cell phones are still working the circuits will quickly become overloaded and useless. In order for us to be able to communicate with our family, friends, neighbors, church units and others in an emergency situation, alternative methods must be used. 

These include: whistles; FRS or GMRS (walkie-talkie type radios); emergency radios where you can listen to news and amateur radios.

Level One: whistle (can be heard from afar); corded phone; cell phone battery charger

Level Two: Emergency radio (for listening); walkie-talkie type radios w/ extra batteries, map

Level Three: Amateur radio license and handheld Ham radio, extra batteries

Level Four: Mobile Ham radio unit, powerful antenna and alternative power sources.

Building your Ark *Lesson 12: Noah was prepared for when the hammer slipped.

Lesson 12: Noah was prepared for when the hammer slipped.

Presented by Debbie Kent

http://www.peaceofpreparedness.com/

It would also be well to have on hand some basic medical supplies to last
for at least a year. Ezra Taft Benson, “Prepare Ye”

Common sense tells us that when a widespread disaster strikes we will not be able to depend on medical help for days or weeks later. It is up to us to prepare for and store supplies for not only our day to day medications but situations we normally go to the doctor or hospital for. For these reasons we not only need to have our own medical supplies but need to know how to use them. Having a good wilderness first aid book; taking CERT or first aid training; or taking the First Aid for Emergency class offered in November will help prepare you in this area. Here are some ideas for preparing by Level:

Level One: 30 days daily medications; pain reliever; spare glasses; gloves; masks; first aid kit

Level Two: 90 days daily medication; burn gel; antibiotics; insect repellent; sunscreen; first aid+

Level Three: Splints; medicines; eye wash; moleskin; First Aid Kit ++; First Aid Training

Level Four: First Aid Kit +++; burn kit; birthing kit; suturing kit; iodine tablets; CERT

Building your Ark * Lesson 11:He had Light and……Power (fuel)

Lesson 11:He had Light and…

Presented by Debbie Kent

http://www.peaceofpreparedness.com/

Wood, coal, gas, oil, kerosene, and even candles are among those items which could be reserved as fuel for warmth, cooking, and light or power. Some may be used for all of these purposes and certain ones would have to be stored and handled cautiously.
(Prepare Ye by Ezra Taft Benson)

Noah was commanded to build a window for light. We now have many different ways you can provide light for your family in an emergency. Having a variety of ways to light is even better. Here are some ideas to get you started. More information will be found in the Power Up class later this year.

Level One: 3 Lightsticks (12 hour); flashlight/batteries; tea candles (100); matches for 90 days

Level Two: Extra batteries; lantern or oil lamp and fuel; matches for 90 day; candles/holders

Level Three: 20-100 Hour Candles; extra lantern parts and fuel for 1 year; solar charge battery

Level Four: Garden Solar lights; led light strings for solar lighting; kerosene lantern & parts

…Power (fuel)

It is a cold winter day. A winter storm has knocked out the power and officials say it may be days or weeks before it is restored. You are prepared: you have flashlights, lanterns, stoves and even a heater, but alas you have no power sources to fire them up! Kind of like being up a creek without a paddle isn’t it? The recommendation: a one year supply of fuel.

Level One: Batteries; firewood; newspapers; matches (box 250)

Level Two: Stove fuel-3 mo; Lamp fuel- 3 mo.; matches (5 boxes); fire starter

Level Three: Charcoal (22 bags); heater; lantern/heater fuel- 9 more months

Level Four: Gasoline w/ additive (Sta-bil); fuel pump; matchless  
lighter; generator/fuel; solar panel/battery/inverter; metal bucket (burning ashes);

Food Storage on $5 a week

The following information was found at  LDSPreppers posted by user “AZPrepper”. He basically came up with a list of $5 food items that you can purchase each week for a year to build up your food storage for you and someone else.
Although he mentions that some of the food costs may have changed, the general concept and estimate should still be worth your while.


Here’s the list of what to buy each week:

• Week 1: 6 lbs salt
• Week 2: 5 cans cream of chicken soup
• Week 3: 20 lbs of sugar
• Week 4: 8 cans tomato soup
• Week 5: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 6: 6 lbs macaroni
• Week 7: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 8: 8 cans tuna
• Week 9: 6 lbs yeast
• Week 10: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 11: 8 cans tomato soup
• Week 12: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 13: 10 lbs powdered milk
• Week 14: 7 boxes macaroni & cheese
• Week 15: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 16: 5 cans cream of chicken soup
• Week 17: 1 bottle 500 multi-vitamins
• Week 18: 10 lbs powdered milk
• Week 19: 5 cans cream of mushroom soup
• Week 20: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 21: 8 cans tomato soup
• Week 22: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 23: 8 cans tuna
• Week 24: 6 lbs shortening
• Week 25: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 26: 5 lbs honey
• Week 27: 10 lbs powdered milk
• Week 28: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 29: 5 lbs peanut butter
• Week 30: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 31: 7 boxes macaroni & cheese
• Week 32: 10 lbs powdered milk
• Week 33: 1 bottle 500 aspirin
• Week 34: 5 cans cream of chicken soup
• Week 35: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 36: 7 boxes macaroni & cheese
• Week 37: 6 lbs salt
• Week 38: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 39: 8 cans tomato soup
• Week 40: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 41: 5 cans cream of chicken soup
• Week 42: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 43: 1 bottle 500 multi-vitamins
• Week 44: 8 cans tuna
• Week 45: 50 lbs wheat
• Week 46: 6 lbs macaroni
• Week 47: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 48: 5 cans cream of mushroom soup
• Week 49: 5 lbs honey
• Week 50: 20 lbs sugar
• Week 51: 8 cans tomato soup
• Week 52: 50 lbs wheat

He also mentions that some weeks you will have leftover change. Instead of spending it, put aside the change each week to be used for the weeks you may need more than $5 (like for wheat, milk, etc). Also be sure to lookout for sales. This way you can jump ahead and cross items off the list where there are great bargains.
After you have completed this list, you will end up with:

• 500 lbs of wheat
• 180 lbs of sugar
• 40 lbs of powdered milk
• 12 lbs of salt
• 10 lbs of honey
• 5 lbs of peanut butter
• 45 cans of tomato soup
• 15 cans of cream of mushroom soup
• 15 cans of cream of chicken soup
• 24 cans of tuna
• 21 boxes of macaroni & cheese
• 500 aspirin
• 1000 multi-vitamins
• 6 lbs of yeast
• 6 lbs of shortening
• 12 lbs of macaroni

Building your Ark * Lesson 10: Noah Ate and Cleaned.

Lesson 10: Noah Ate 

Presented by Debbie Kent

Noah, his family ate the food they stored, the question is was it cooked or raw?

“One thing to consider is how you are going to cook your food. We quickly found that eating cold food out of a can was quite unappetizing, even if you are hungry. We were under a fire ban, so building a fire wasn’t an option. I highly recommend learning ways to cook without electricity and storing needed supplies”. Jessica J. (yourfamilyark.com)


Level One: No cooking just open and eat foods; can opener, utensils, knife.

Level Two: Camping/Rocket stove; bowl/ cup; pot w/lid; skillet; mixing bowls; whisk; stirring spoon; plates; spatula; strainer; 3-can openers; matches

Level Three: Ice box cooker; Applebox oven; pots and pans; grinder; asst. pans, canning jars

Level Four: Solar Oven; bowls; baking pans; large pots; pressure canner; electric grinder; etc

and Cleaned.

The biggest cause of death from the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 that initially killed over 230,000 occurred AFTER the wave hit. These deaths were caused by the lack of clean water and poor sanitation practices in the weeks and months following the event, which led to disease and death. During times of emergency it is critical that sanitation be strictly observed in the cleaning of clothing, bedding materials, and all kitchen and food preparation utensils. Typhoid fever, amoebic dysentery, diarrhea, infectious hepatitis, salmonella and Guardia are diseases that spread rapidly in times of emergency and threaten all, yet are these all diseases that can easily be controlled by simply following the rules of good sanitation. (See Level Lists or WaSH class for further details)

Level One: Bucket; toilet paper: tampons; soaps; bleach; plunger; trash bags; sponge, towels

Level Two: Portable Toilet; trash bags; TP; soaps; laundry soap; clothesline; broom, towels

Level Three: Washboard & tub; clothes pins; shampoo; razors; paper towels; lime, scissors, etc.

Level Four: Toilet Seat; no-Electric washer; wringer; rinse tub; solar shower; mouthwash

Building your Ark * Lesson 9: Noah Had Shelter

Lesson 9: Noah Had Shelter

"For many years the leaders of the Mormon Church have recommended that every family have on hand at least a year's supply of basic food, clothing, fuel (where possible) and provisions for shelter". -President Ezra Taft Benson

I find it interesting that shelter is often mentioned by the Brethren as a preparedness item. Many of us have camping gear, do we think of that as part of our preparedness supplies? For those of you who don’t have camping gear, did you think about the importance of it? What if your home was not safe to live in? What if we had to relocate because our area was not safe to stay in. Do you have a shelter that would stand up to wind, rain or even snow to keep you protected from the elements and offer you some privacy?

Level 1: A space/ emergency or regular blanket for your 72+ hour kit, trash bag or poncho

Level 2: A GOOD sleeping bag (0° or lower) , tarp or plastic sheeting.

Level 3: A ground pad for comfort and insulation, wool blanket, good 3-4 season tent.

Level 4: Cot, backpack, shower/bathroom, cooking tent, table, chairs, tarps, parachute cord

Building your Ark * Lesson 8: Noah had Clothing

Lesson 8: Noah had Clothing

Clothing is our own personal shelter. Think about it, if there is an earthquake or fire in the middle of the night, and you have to evacuate, you may have nothing but the clothes on your back. Will they be enough to protect you from winds, rain, snow or even severe heat until you can find or erect another shelter. When your body temperature drops to 96° hypothermia sets in. At that time your body and brain function at a slower rate. And what about you commuters, do you have comfortable clothes and shoes stored that you could change into if you needed to walk home? And what about future needs? Do you have clothes for growing children? Do you have supplies to mend and sew?

“Concerning clothing, we should anticipate future needs, such as extra work clothes and clothes that would supply warmth during winter months when there may be shortages or lack of heating fuel. Leather and bolts of cloth could be stored, particularly for families with younger children who will outgrow and perhaps outwear their present clothes. “The day will come, when, as we have been told, we shall all see the necessity of making our own shoes and clothing and raising our own food. …” (Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, p. 166.)

Level One: (72 hour kit) 1 change of clothes; underwear; socks; shoes; a light jacket; work gloves and a bandana.

Level Two: 3 more changes of clothes, underwear and socks; sturdy shoes; a hat, some warm gloves, and heavier coat; pajamas, bathing suit.

Level Three: Warm Clothes (clothes that would protect you from the elements if you weren’t in a warm house); warm coat, hat, gloves, socks; and rain gear.

Level Four: Extra clothes; bigger clothes for growing children; work clothes; bolts of material and sewing supplies; 1-2 extra pairs of sturdy, comfortable shoes.

Building your Ark * Lesson 7: Put $$$ Away for a Raining Day

Lesson 7: Put $$$ Away for a Raining Day

Presented by Debbie Kent

I don’t think Noah needed to worry about putting money away, but we do.

"We encourage you wherever you may live in the world to prepare for adversity by looking to the condition of your finances. . . .If you have paid your debts and have a financial reserve, even though it is small, you and your family will feel more secure and enjoy greater peace in your hearts."
“All is Safely Gathered In” Ensign, Feb. 2007

Let us avoid debt as we would avoid a plague; where we are now in debt, let us get out of debt; if not today, then tomorrow. “Let us straightly and strictly live within our incomes, and save a little. Prepare Ye, Benson Ensign 1974

“The Saints have been advised to pay their own way and maintain a cash reserve. Recent history has demonstrated that in difficult days it is reserves with intrinsic value that are of most worth, rather than reserves, the value of which may be destroyed through inflation. It is well to remember that continued government deficits cause inflation; inflation is used as an excuse for ineffective price controls; price controls lead to shortages; artificial shortages inevitably are used as an excuse to implement rationing.”
“Prepare Ye”, Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign 1974

There is no set amount for your family financial reserve. But do what you can. Setting aside even a few dollars each week, or even your change and quickly add up into a nice savings.

*IF you plan to store this at home: store small bills; in fire/water proof container; well hidden. Gold and silver are always safe additions, especially in turbulent times when the dollar may not hold its value.
NEW: Some financial experts are now saying “Put your money in commodities”, not the dollar, or silver or gold. Food is a better investment than gold.

“When we really get into hard times, where food is scarce or there is none at all, and so with clothing and shelter, money may be no good for there may be nothing to buy, and you cannot eat money, you cannot get enough of it together to burn to keep warm, and you cannot wear it.” (Pres. Clark; Church News, November 21, 1953, p. 4.)

Building your Ark * Lesson 6: Noah Had Water

Lesson 6: Noah Had Water

Presented by Debbie Kent

In pondering drinking water for Noah, I originally chuckled, thinking, “Well it was pouring rain they wouldn’t need to store water”. But then I realized that it only rained for forty days of the almost year they were on the ark.

What did they do the other ten months? They had to have stored water.

Water is essential for life. Most of us just take it for granted. We turn on the faucet and clean clear water comes out day and night. It is not until some major disaster or calamity occurs that the true value of water truly becomes apparent. In some cases it becomes “more valuable than gold.” Many of us may be prepared with our 72 hour emergency kits which contain a bottle or two of water. But how many of us are really prepared for an emergency that could last for a week, a month, several months….and yes, perhaps even up to a year.”
“Store enough drinking water for circumstances in which the water supply may be polluted or disrupted. Water is more essential than food in sustaining life.” (Providentliving.org)

There is much differing information out there about storing water. The following are some ideas of what is the best and safest way to store and treat water.

Store clean water before the crisis.

Some examples of this 2 week supply: 3-5gallon jugs; 5-cases of 4 oz water pouches; 3:5 gallon bottles; or 4-cases of 16 oz bottles. PETE bottle: 2 liter soda bottles or juice bottles can also be used if washed really well. 

Do NOT use Bleach/Soap bottles for drinking water.

Level One: FEMA recommends at least 1 gallon of water person for 2 weeks, or at least 14 gallons. Allow more for first aid, cooking, cooling down, etc. (minimum 2 gallons per person per day) PLUS water bottle purifier (can be found at ldscatalog.org – Seychelle $22). This water filtration bottle kit removes up to 99.99 percent of pollutants and contaminants found in drinking water. Produces up to 100 gallons of filtered water, includes extra filter.
Level Two: 1-55 gallon drum per person; pump; wrench (to open and close); water treatment
Level Three: 2 more 55 gallon barrels per person (3 barrels: 3 months supply-per person).
Level Four: A way to collect more water and a GOOD purifier, and creative ways to store.

Where to Store Water

Store where easily accessible for emergency use and water source to fill. Best stored in dark, cool place. Can be stored outside, off of ground, covered, in shade if possible. Store away from insecticides, petroleum or anything else with a strong odor.

The Time is Now

With the Earthquake in Virginia this week and now a Hurricane coming to the same region we should be looking around us to see where we need to better prepare.  The time to prepare is now.  Where are we on our efforts?  Where do we want to be? What can we do today?  If you don't have the answers to these questions there is something that you can do.

Being fully prepared takes time, effort and money.  If we find ourselves short in one or all of those areas there is one thing that we can and must do to prepare.  PRAY.  If we simply have a desire to prepare but do not know how or where to start PRAY,  The Lord will guide you in your efforts.  Pray about what you can do now to prepare for the future.  There are many things that each of us can do that cost no money;  Make an Emergency Plan, plan Escape Routes, save milk jugs and soda bottles for water storage. If we are prayerful we will be guided in what is most important for us.

Now would also be a good time to review our 72 Hour Kits;  If you need to rotate the food, update medications or add something that you find to be missing.  If you have children make sure their clothing fits.  If you haven't started a 72 Hour Kit you could take last year's school back pack for the kids and put their emergency clothing inside instead of throwing them out.

Don't forget that you may be away from home in the event of an emergency.  You may want to have a Mini Emergency Kit in your car or at your office.  It will only take a little time and thought and you will be better prepared.

We live in an area where earthquakes, though unpredictable, are expected.  Here are some links with information about what we can do BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER an earthquake.  Knowledge is Priceless and can save a life.  Please take a few minutes to review the information.

We can all be prepared, we just have to take the first step and start.

Building your Ark * Lesson 5: Noah Counted the Animals

Lesson 5: Noah Counted the Animals

Presented by Debbie Kent

Noah had to count the animals to be sure he had what he needed. The same is true with you. Knowing what you have and what you still need begins with inventorying. If you don’t really know what you have, then you can’t know if you have enough or what you still need. How you do this is up to you.

Here are a few ideas:

Pencil and paper: Record: item name, date purchased; how much and where it is stored
Index cards: have one card for every bucket or can. Keep these organized in a recipe type box. When you open a new one put that card in the buy pile. Easy way to keep track of inventory.
TrackMyFoodStorage.com: Free site to record and track your food storage
Food Storage Analyzer (beprepared.com): Inventory & analyze your food & nutritional content.
Food Storage Planner: Computer program: 3 levels of lists including food and many other areas of preparedness; keeps track of inventory, recipes, etc.

Building your Ark * Lesson 4: A Place for Everything

Lesson 4: A Place for Everything 

Presented by Debbie Kent

With limited space on the ark and many kinds of animals, Noah would have needed to be organized. This is a good lesson learned. The more organized and easily accessible your food storage is the more likely you will use it. Did you know that by cooking with food storage one day out of the week can totally rotate your food storage in seven years? 

Optimally, food should be stored in your basement or storm cellar where temperatures remain stable and below 70º. If this is not possible where you live then the garage works for most grains and even canned goods if you rotate often, but definitely NOT for dehydrated or freeze-dried foods or dairy products. They are greatly and quickly affected by heat. Store these in house. After you have done all you can, pray that Heavenly Father will bless and protect your food. 

Think you have no place to store in your house? Think again. Did you know you can store a one year supply of basics under a twin sized bed? Under beds, in closets, linen closets, false walls, in the corner or on rotating shelves are just some options for storage. Storing food that is easily accessible will make it not only easier to rotate but easier to find when you need it. Make sure you DATE all items. Rotating your food is the best way to ensure good quality. There are four things that affect the quality (flavor, appearance, texture, vitamins) of your food, these are known as HALT. More info on effects of long term storage on BYU website: ndfs.byu.edu/foodstorage 

§ Humidity (moisture)

§ Air (oxygen)

§ Light

§ Temperature (temp. above 70 degrees cut storage life by half each year) 

Storage Containers 

In addition to storing your food in an organized manner and in keeping with the rules of HALT and wanting to keep it free from bugs and rodents, you will want to package it for long term storage. This can be done by packing in one of the following ways: 

All Storage Containers (package with O2 packets and store all off of floors)

Mylar Bags: re-sealable, not puncture or rodent proof, store in other container,

#10 Cans: Make sure seal is tight, not re-useable, not airtight once opened, stackable.

Buckets: Food Grade, Stackable, re-useable, re-sealable, easy open with gamma lids.

PETE bottles: cheap, re-useable, not stackable.

Building your Ark * Lesson 3: Noah Gathered Food

Lesson 3: Noah Gathered Food 

Presented by Debbie Kent

Noah was commanded not only store food for his family but also for the animals and did you know they lived on the ark for almost a year? A year supply of food…sound familiar? Now it’s your turn to gather food for your family. Does that sound overwhelming, then take it one level at a time. 

Level One:

90 Days Supply 

Think SOS

Simple- in case of illness or disaster

One Pot- easy and less dishes

Storable- Shelf Stable food that can be stored at least 6 months 

Making Your 90-Day Menu: Make a list of meals for breakfasts that your family likes to eat: pancakes, muffins, cereal, oatmeal, cream of wheat, toast and jam, eggs and hash browns, coffee cake, granola, etc. If you will eat once a week, multiply ingredients by 12, if 2 times a month, multiply by 6. Then do the same for lunch, dinner and snacks. 

Putting Your Menu into Action: To make pancake breakfast you need: pancake mix, syrup and maybe Tang to drink. The following table shows the breakdown of amounts of ingredient; how many days you will eat in a 3 month period; how much that totals up to; how much is in a package; how many packages you would need for 3 months. You can do this on index cards: one for each meal or on a chart or whatever works for you. The important thing is to pick your meals and list ALL the ingredients. When you do this and have it all on your shelves then you will have the means to make meals that your family will LOVE to eat. 

Meal           Ingredients                Amount               # of days         Totals         Pkg Amt        Needed

Pancakes

                     Pancake Mix               4 c                           12                  48 c             24 c                2

                     Syrup                           1/2 c                        12                  6 c                6 c                 1

                     Tang                             1/2 c                        12                 6 c                 6 c                 1 

When you are done with this list, the totals become your shopping list. Take this list with you when you go shopping and pick up a few items each week, especially stocking up with the items that are one sale and ones you have coupons for.  Before you know it you will have your 90 Day Supply of open and eat foods. 

*Repackaging meals in paper bags or cardboard boxes into mylar bags with O2 absorbers will greatly increase their shelf life. 

Level Two

Long Term Food Storage – One Person/One Year 

“Perhaps if you would think in terms of not what you regularly eat but in terms of what it would take to keep you alive if there was nothing else available” Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley 

o 400 lbs Grains (wheat, rice, oats, pasta, barley, popcorn, rye, millet, spelt, etc)

o 60 lbs Beans (pinto, black, navy, split peas, lentils, or canned meat)

(Bean+ whole grain makes a complete protein) 

THEN ADD:

o 60 lbs Sugar (white, brown, powdered, honey, jello, fruit drink, jelly)

o 8 lb Salt (at least ½ iodized)

o 16 lb Dry Milk (triple amount for small children and nursing mom’s)

o 4 gal. Oil (vegetable, canola, olive, shortening, mayo, peanut butter)

o 2 lb. Baking Soda, 2 lb Baking Powder and 2 lb. Yeast

Survival Mode 

A Basic Year Supply is about the same amount of food the Handcart Pioneers had per day. 

Another problem how to void Appetite Fatigue (a term coined during Post War WWII). During the war the cities had been almost destroyed. The people scrounged and then started growing food. They only had a few different kinds of food so they ate the same thing, everyday. The older people and children just stopped eating and died. You know how children are if it is not something that is familiar to them, that they like, they just say they aren’t hungry.

Lesson learned: Add variety and comfort foods to your storage. 

The Third Level 

 Meals 

Now that you have your basic year supply, start thinking in terms of meals. What can you make using the basics of grains and beans for breakfasts, lunches, dinners and comfort foods and store accordingly. If you want to make pancakes: do you have a grinder, baking soda, and syrup? If you want to make soup, do you have bouillon, vegetables and spices? A tasty meal is A LOT more satisfying than a bowl of plain rice and beans. So what does YOUR family want to eat? 

The Top Level 

 The Givers 

So you have enough food for your family, do you have enough to share with others who did not have the opportunity to store? Maybe you could have some ABC soup mix that you could share with a hungry neighbor? Or are you feeling prompted to help your married kids or other family members? This is the level that moves you from being a survivor to being able to feed His sheep.

3 Month Storage: Seasoning

Seasonings

Home Storage goal for the month of

july

Spiritual Goal:  Do an act of Service

Acquire a 3 month supply of seasonings

For your family

Go thorough your cupboard and see what you have.  Here are some suggestions you will want to include:

Vanilla

baking powder

baking soda

cornstarch

salt

garlic

dry onion

Italian seasoning

Beef bullion

Chicken bullion

Chili powder

Vinegar

Lemon juice

Here are spices and their preferred uses:

Allspice: hearty meats, fruit desserts

Basil: tomatoes, pesto, salads

Bay Leaves: soups and stews, grilled meats

Caraway Seeds: breads, cabbage, carrots, potatoes

Celery Seeds: tomatoes, salads

Chives: salads, vegetables, potatoes, eggs

Cinnamon: baked goods, fruits, beverages

Cloves: baked goods, hearty meats

Coriander: Mexican dishes, soups

Cumin: Mexican dishes, meats, cheese, beans

Dill Weed and Seed: vegetables, salads and dressings, eggs

Fennel: sausage, fish

Ginger: baked goods, Asian dishes, vegetables

Marjoram: meats, Italian dishes, vegetables

Mint: beverages, meats, desserts

Mustard: fish, eggs, cheese, meats, sauces

Nutmeg: baked goods, spinach, dairy products

Oregano: Italian dishes, meats, tomatoes

Paprika: Spanish dishes, potatoes, meats

Parsley: salads, soups, meats, fish

Pepper: meats, soups and stews, nearly everything

Poppy Seeds: baked goods, noodles, salad dressings

Rosemary: chicken, potatoes

Saffron: rice, seafood

Sage: poultry, pork, stuffings

Savory: beans, cheese, eggs

Sesame Seeds: baked goods, Asian dishes, cheese

Tarragon: chicken, salads, seafood

Thyme: meats, soups and stews, vegetables

Vanilla: baked goods, beverages

Mexican Seasoning

·  1/2 cup chili powder

·  1 tablespoon salt

·  1 tablespoon dried cumin

·  2 teaspoons garlic powder

·  1 teaspoon oregano

·  1 teaspoon black pepper

Combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container. Keep in a dark and cool place.

Cajun Seasoning

·  4 tablespoons paprika

·  4 tablespoons salt

·  3 tablespoons black pepper

·  3 tablespoons garlic powder

·  1 tablespoon onion powder

·  2 teaspoons cayenne

·  1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

·  1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme

Combine all ingredients. Store in an air tight container and keep in a cool, dark place

Italian Seasoning

·  2 tablespoons dried basil

·  2 tablespoons dried oregano

·  2 tablespoons dried rosemary

·  2 tablespoons dried thyme

·  2 tablespoons dried sage

·  2 tablespoons dried marjoram

·  2 tablespoons savory

·  1 tablespoons dried coriander

Combine all ingredients. It is best to grind the herbs together or put in a food processor for about 30 seconds. This will give you an even mixture. Store in a dry, cool and dark place.

Seasoned Salt

·  4 tablespoons salt

·  4 teaspoons sugar

·  1 teaspoon paprika

·  1/2 teaspoon turmeric

·  1/2 teaspoon onion powder

·  1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

·  1/2 teaspoon cornstarch

Combine all ingredients. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Poultry Seasoning

·  3 tablespoons dried rosemary

·  3 tablespoons dried oregano

·  3 tablespoons dried sage

·  2 tablespoons dried ginger

·  2 tablespoons dried marjoram

·  2 tablespoons dried thyme

·  1 tablespoon black pepper

Combine all ingredients. Store in an airtight container. Keep in a cool, dark place.

 

Building your Ark * Lesson 2: When God Speaks… LISTEN

Lesson 2: When God Speaks… LISTEN

Presented by Debbie Kent

 

 

Get your spiritual houses in order. You know the drill on this: daily prayer, family prayer, scripture study, following commandments, and attending the temple. I believe one reason there has been such an emphasis on doing these things is that they prepare you for personal revelation. This gift of revelation will not only give you guidance for you and your family, but bring you peace and joy even when things get REALLY HARD. Have you read the scriptures lately about what is to come and then applied that to what life will be like…it is humbling indeed. It will truly take a combination of spiritual and physical preparedness to help us survive and endure these Last Days.

“For many years the leaders of the Mormon Church have recommended … that every family have on hand at least a year’s supply of basic food, clothing, fuel (where possible), and provisions for shelter…it can and will be useful in many circumstances in the days ahead.” (Ezra Taft Benson, “God, Family, Country” p.331)
I am sure Noah thought, “How am I ever going to build a boat THAT BIG??? The Answer: one board at a time; one nail at a time, with direction from God and a little help from his family.

The same is true with your preparedness program. It is an overwhelming task if you try to do it all at once and all by yourself. BUT if you just take just one item at a time; one level at a time, pretty soon your whole ark will be complete. Just like Noah, the Lord is there to give direction and encouragement, to show us what to do next.

Also like Noah we find ourselves needing to be prepared in all things. We are going to look at all these areas needed to build our arks combined with the idea that like Noah we can’t build our arks all at once but rather need to build it up in levels. Things like: clothes, shelter, food, water, sanitation, cooking, medical, communication, tools, lighting, fuel, protection and skills you or others might need.

These are guidelines only. Please use prayer and the promptings of the Spirit to
further guide you as to what your family needs and when.

Building your Ark * Lesson 1: Noah Was Warned

Lesson 1: Noah Was Warned

Presented by Debbie KentNoah, being warned of God of things not seen…
prepared an ark to the saving of his house.” (Heb. 11:7)

We too have been warned how we can save our house…

Prophets throughout the history of the earth have been shown visions of our day and written about what they saw. Things like: earthquakes, pestilences, flooding, storms, famines and wars that would happen during the dreadful day of the Lord. Latter -day Prophets have taken that a step further and given us counsel on what we can do to prepare both spiritually and physically. Are we taking their warnings seriously? Do we have ears to hear? Do we really think what they say is important enough to act on?

Prophet Gordon B Hinckley, (“If Ye are Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear”)
“If anyone has any doubt concerning the terrible things that can and will afflict mankind, let him read the 24th chapter of Matthew. Among other things the Lord says: “Ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars. … “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. … For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. He went on to describe many disasters including: the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, the Black Plague that killed millions, the Chicago Fire, The Great Depression, Hurricane Katrina, and the Tsunami in Southeast Asia. Then he said, “What we have experienced in the past was all foretold, and the end is not yet. Just as there have been calamities in the past, we expect more in the future.” Occasions such 9/11 pull us up sharply to a realization that “Life is fragile, peace is fragile, civilization itself is fragile. The economy is particularly vulnerable. We have been counseled again and again concerning self-reliance. We cannot provide against every contingency. But we can provide against many contingencies.”

What are some of the contingencies we have been forewarned would come our way?

Famine/Drought: "...lay up food that can be preserved; for you will see a day when you will want it; and it will be when we shall feel the effects of famine, and when the United States has not any food."Heber C. Kimball, May 1857

Pestilences: The Lord has set loose the angels to reap down the earth, but those who obey the Word of Wisdom along with the other commandments are assured “that the destroying angel shall pass by them.” Prepare Ye, Ezra Taft Benson, 1974

Earthquakes: in divers places and increasing in intensity worldwide. When a major earthquake hits the Antelope Valley we will be essentially cut off from outside help for a time. Plan on being able to take care of: yourselves, friends and neighbors. They will be your support system.

Hurricanes and Flooding: “And also cometh the testimony of the voice of thunderings, and the voice of lightnings, and the voice of tempests, and the voice of the waves of the sea heaving themselves beyond their bounds.  Doctrine & Covenants 88: 88-91

Terrorism and War: “…Ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars” Matt. 24:6 “…Nation will rise up against nation, kingdom against kingdom, and states against states, in our own country and in foreign lands.”
Brigham Young , Journal of Discourses, Vol 8, pg 123

Economies Fail: Job loss, stores closing, bank failures, Stock Market Crash, housing market crash, national and person debt, bailouts, dollar devalued, etc.
“…Lay up your wheat and other provisions against a day of need, for the day will come when they will be wanted, and no mistake about it. "  Pres. Wilford Woodruff (Journal of Discourses, 18:121.)

“Building Your Ark…Lessons Learned from Noah”

“Building Your Ark…Lessons Learned from Noah”

Presented by Debbie Kent avfoodstorage@gmail.com

“Be prepared in all things against the day when tribulation
and desolation are sent forth upon the wicked.” D&C 29:8

There are many, many different ways to build an ark and even more choices of what to put in it. Please listen to the Spirit, while you are reading this handout, as it prompts you to know what you need for YOUR ark. There are many lessons that can be learned from Noah, like “Keep the woodpeckers in a cage”, but we are going to focus on some other lessons that help us on our quest to be prepared in all things.

Keeping Warm in COLD weather

Keeping Warm in COLD weather

Dress in Layers

1. Base layer ~ Wool or Polyester ~ To wick moisture away
2. Insulating layer ~ Such as Down, Fleece or light wool ~ To trap dead air
3. Protective layer ~ Woven Nylon or Gore-Tex type ~ Water protection

Do you need blankets??

Don’t forget your hands and feet….Cotton is bad, go with wool/synthetics if you can and think about hand warmers!

Where to start??

 72 Hour Kits

Being prepared can be over whelming, and sometimes we wonder "Where do I begin?"  A good place to start is with a 72 hour kit, even if it's just one, it's a start.

The purpose of a kit is to sustain life for 72 hours, in the event of an emergency.  I know many of us have at least a partial kit and that it great!  Remember, we need to update our 72 Hour Kits every so often.  Also, regularly review your family emergency plans.

Here are several questions to ask yourself:

• Do you know where your 72-hour kit is and how to use it?
• Do you have a kit for each member of your family?
• Do your kids know what is in it?
• Is the 72-hour kit up to date?
• Do you own a battery-powered radio?
• In an emergency, do you know where to find emergency information for our area?
• Do you have a family emergency plan?
• Have you practiced it recently?
• Do you carry a paper list of contacts with a phone number of someone at least 100 miles away for everyone to contact?
• Do you have an emergency kit in your car? In your office?
• How long will it take for you to walk home from work?
• Do you know where you will evacuate?
• Can you bring your 72-hour kit to an evacuation center if needed? Or can you stay home and shelter in place?
• Do you own a shovel?
• The government can bring emergency drinking water in trucks, but when they do, what kind of container to you own to carry the water in?
• Do you own a tent or travel trailer?
• Do you have 2 gallons of water per day per person? 1 gallon for drinking and 1 gallon for sanitary use?
• Is your hot water heater strapped to the wall?
• Do you know how to shut off your water so you can use it?
• Do you know how to shut off the gas? Only shut it off if you smell gas.

There is so much to think about. "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear." (D&C 38:30) 

Don't get overwhelmed with everything there is to do. You just need to begin.

Alternative Heating and Keeping Warm without Electricity

Alternative Heating and Keeping Warm without Electricity

Wood/pellet stove/fireplace

Propane fireplace with manual igniter

Liquid fuel heaters: Kerosene, indoor propane heaters

**Be sure to follow safety guides, have adequate ventilation and carbon monoxide detectors

Limit area to be heated by closing off unused rooms.  Close doors, hang blankets

Select a room away from prevailing winds if possible

Eliminate drafts

Dress warmly and in layers

NEVER USE INDOORS

Range/oven to heat home

Gas or charcoal grill
Generator

Water Purification Guidelines

Water Purification Guidelines

If your water supply is not known to be safe or has become polluted, it should be purified before use. Water purification is generally a two-step process.

Step 1: Clarify

Cloudy or dirty water must first be made clear. It may be passed through filter paper, fine cloth, or other filter. It may be allowed to settle and the clear water on top carefully drawn. Filtered or clear settled water should always be disinfected before use.

Step 2: Disinfect

Boiling Method
Bringing water to a rolling boil for 3 to 5 minutes will kill most water-borne microorganisms. However, prolonged boiling of small quantities of water may concentrate toxic contaminants if present.
Bleach Method
Adding 1/8 of a teaspoon (8 drops) of fresh liquid household chlorine bleach (5 to 6% sodium hypochlorite) to every gallon (4 liters) of water will kill most microorganisms. Only household bleach without thickeners, scents, or additives should be used. The use of bleach does not address toxic contamination.
The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency Web site provides additional information about water purification.

Commercial Water Filters

Commercial water filters can effectively filter and purify water contaminated with microorganisms, toxic chemicals, and heavy metals. Their effectiveness depends on design, condition, and proper use. Water filters produced by Seychelle have been used successfully by Church missionaries for many years.
To learn more and to find local emergency preparedness stores, search the Internet for water purification and emergency preparedness supplies.
www.seychelle.com
www.katadyn.com

Water Storage Guidelines

Water Storage Guidelines

Commercially bottled water in PETE (or PET) plastic containers may be purchased. Follow the container’s “best if used by” dates as a rotation guideline. Avoid plastic containers that are not PETE plastic.
If you choose to package water yourself, consider the following guidelines:

Containers

• Use only food-grade containers. Smaller containers made of PETE plastic or heavier plastic buckets or drums work well.
• Clean, sanitize, and thoroughly rinse all containers prior to use. A sanitizing solution can be prepared by adding 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of liquid household chlorine bleach (5 to 6% sodium hypochlorite) to one quart (1 liter) of water. Only household bleach without thickeners, scents, or additives should be used.
• Do not use plastic milk jugs, because they do not seal well and tend to become brittle over time.
• Do not use containers previously used to store non-food products.

Water Pretreatment

• Water from a chlorinated municipal water supply does not need further treatment when stored in clean, food-grade containers.
• Non-chlorinated water should be treated with bleach. Add 1/8 of a teaspoon (8 drops) of liquid household chlorine bleach (5 to 6% sodium hypochlorite) for every gallon (4 liters) of water. Only household bleach without thickeners, scents, or additives should be used.

Storage

• Containers should be emptied and refilled regularly.
• Store water only where potential leakage would not damage your home or apartment.
• Protect stored water from light and heat. Some containers may also require protection from freezing.
• The taste of stored water can be improved by pouring it back and forth between two containers before use.