The global economy is collapsing around your ears. Now is not the time to realize you forgot about communications when you put together your emergency plans. Then again, now is better than never. Unless you plan to live a solitary life inside a bunker, or on some remote mountaintop, then you’ll eventually need to communicate with other survivors. I grew up around CB’s and Ham radios, so I can help you discover the differences and decide what works best for you. Realistically, having the right tool or skill is always crucial to survival.

Is a CB radio the same as a Ham radio? CB radios and Ham radios are not the same. Not only do they function on different frequencies, but they have different capabilities. Perhaps more importantly, they have vastly varying ranges. 

How Does CB Radio Work

Unlike Ham radio, CB radio is more limited in its scope. Although you can get high-end CBs and antennae that boost your signal, typically two to five miles is your range. Moreover, the range limitation isn’t the only significant difference.

CB began in the late 1940s and gained popularity during the seventies. Many truckers use these radios as a way to communicate. They share information, often raunchy jokes, and use the channels to help navigate the nearby roads.

Using a CB, you have forty available channels on a single band. Furthermore, CB or Citizens Band radio is free from the licensing and educational restrictions of Ham Radio. You don’t need any specific permissions so long as you use an unmodified, legal CB radio on the specified channels.

Also, CB radio is limited by law. They can only transmit at up-to five watts. Anything beyond that level of power requires licensing.

CB Channel Limits

It’s not a hundred percent freeform when you use a CB radio. In particular, there are two reserved channels. Numbers nine and nineteen have specific uses that all users adhere to strictly.

Channel nine is an emergency frequency. This means it’s used for traveler assistance and other emergencies. Meanwhile, channel nineteen is reserved for truckers—both long and short-haul truck report on road conditions, blocks, and other potential issues.

Some of the other channels have ‘normal’ uses, but they aren’t mandatory.

• Four by four drivers traditionally use channel four.
• Channel ten often used by crews on regional roads.
• Channel thirteen is the marine and RV station.
• Also used for walkie talkies channel fourteen can get busy.
• Channel sixteen also works as an SSB channel using the Single Side Band only.
• Channel seventeen is for north and south traffic.
• Usually, channel twenty-one handles east and westbound traffic.
• Channels thirty-six to forty are all SSB like sixteen, except for thirty-eight, which is both SSB and U/LSB. That means Upper and Lower Side Band frequency.

It helps to know a little about the culture of CB radio and its proper uses before you just hit the button and start talking. However, it’s not required other than leaving the emergency and trucker frequencies open.

Best CB Radio

My top pick for CB radios is one that has an ideal combo of value and features. You want a radio with an emergency button for those disasters that are more personal. Plus a good warranty is vital.

The Uniden PRO520XL from Amazon is a fantastic example of form and function. Not only does it look sleek, but it comes from a well-known manufacturer. With features like the emergency channel button and a two-year warranty, it’s hard to find a better quality option for a beginner. You can pick one up by clicking here. 

How Ham Radios are Different from CB

CB radios have far less power than Ham Radio. If a CB can chat locally, then a good Ham radio is capable of communicating with the world. Resultantly, Ham radio operators must have licenses to operate.

You are allowed to purchase a Ham radio and listen to it. However, before you ever touch a button beyond the power switch, you’ll need to get the necessary paperwork. Luckily, the test isn’t horribly difficult, though most people do need to study beforehand.

While short-range CBs limit you to local conversations, more serious fans can quickly become part of the wider radio world with a Ham license. If you want to communicate in times of emergency or join multinational conversations, then this is the radio you want.

Although you can’t use a Ham radio for commercial purposes, it’s a great way to talk to people over much greater distances. You’ll have access to a wide range of frequencies, about a hundred and sixty meters through GHz bands, rather than a few dozen channels on a single band.

Ham Radio Licenses

I never recommend taking illegal actions, so let’s look at what you need to get a license for Ham radio use. A basic test with about thirty-five questions will get you a world of access. All amateur frequencies above thirty GHz are available to HAM operators.

There are three different classes of licenses available. Naturally, the higher your rating, the more frequencies are available to you. Anyone can take the test with a single exception. Representatives of foreign governments can’t take the tests here in the USA.

According to the National Association for Amateur Radio, “Amateur Radio is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under the Communications Act of 1934.” The FCC oversees testing for Ham operators, and your license lasts ten years before you need to renew.

Most of the test questions will likely have to do with the theory, operating practices, and regulations. Classes of Ham license are Technician, General, and Amateur Extra Licenses. The first grants you the least access, and the last gives you the greatest privilege.

Getting Your Ham Radio

Choosing your first Ham radio is exciting. Still, you mustn’t let your enthusiasm get the best of you. Pick a model that has a hardened shell for traveling. You also want a small but powerful option from a reliable company.

Check out the BaoFeng BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) from Amazon. The latest model has twice the power of previous editions. More importantly, it was designed in the US, so it’s more intuitive for Americans to use. Plus, you’ll love the PC03 FTDI Programming Cable that makes it easier to program your PC for compatibility. Learn more by clicking here. 

Choosing a CB Vs. Ham Radios for Survival

Now that you know what the fundamental differences are between CB radios and Ham radios, which one should you choose? Mostly, it depends on what you need your communication to do for you. Are you seeking a short-range system that’s better than a walkie talkie? Or would you prefer the ability to talk to survivors all over the world?

Your needs determine how you prepare for emergencies. Whether you’re alone or working with a group that changes how you approach prepping, likewise, how much you need to move from any given location can also help you decide. Every scenario and person has their unique needs. Addressing them is why you’re here.

Use a CB

When you’re getting your survival group together, you need an excellent way to talk to each other. Whether you need to caravan to a group bug-out location or chat as you run patrols, standard walkie talkies aren’t always up to the task. A CB is much more powerful than most walkies.

Traveling with a group, a high-quality CB for each member, is your best bet. You can also use them to help navigate highways and back roads. Avoiding trouble by listening to the chatter is a superb use for these clever radios.

I’d also recommend you consider the exceptional President ANDY Compact AM CB Radio. You’ll appreciate the plethora of features, like seven weather channels. Yet, for all the incredible details, it’s not difficult to learn. The smaller size allows you to place it wherever you need it quickly and easily. Read the Amazon reviews here. 

Use a Ham Radio

Sometimes you just need more range than a CB can give or more bandwidth. Regardless of your specific need, you’ll get more range out of a great Ham radio. More importantly, you can monitor the chat on emergency frequencies easily. Half of any successful survivor strategy is knowing where not to be.

Groups can also use this style, but typically a CB is sufficient for that. However, when you plan to thrive after TEOTWAWKI, contacting other savvy survivors all over the world is a great way to trade skills, news, and more.

Try the Greaval Ham Radio Walkie Talkie UHF VHF portable set. It comes with everything you’ll need from an earpiece to cords, mic, two batteries, and more. With a thirty-day hassle-free return policy and an eighteen-month warranty with tech support, this is the complete package. Click here to check prices and availability on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, you need both a Ham and CB radio because they are so different. Not only will having two radios give you twice the chance of contacting survivors, but you have a backup system. When SHTF, you want redundancies and options.

Before you pack up your gear for everyday purposes and bug-in or bug-out plans, watch this video to bone up on the uses. Make sure you put your radios wherever they will do you the most good. Every survival plan is unique, and only you know what will work best for you.

When in doubt, double down. You can always pick up duplicates of your CB and Ham radios as you expand your emergency preparations.

 

You’ve been working on your RV a lot lately. Luckily, they make great bug-out vehicles because you have a place to live, plus mobility. Assuming your emergency leaves roads clear enough to move around, you can go anywhere. Alternately, you can shelter in place. Using an RV means in a major catastrophe, you still have heat and the ability to cook.

Moreover, you can store a lot of equipment inside for survival. More importantly, you can get backup power systems for an RV, but what kind of power do you need? I did a ton of research before I bought my RV, and I’ll explain everything you need to know about generators for your RV.

Do I need an inverter generator for my RV? You need an inverter generator for your RV. Without a power source, you’re just camping in a big metal tent. However, the right generator can turn that lump of metal into a mobile fortress in an emergency.

Advantages of Inverter Generators for RVs

There are three primary yet incredible advantages to having an inverter generator for your RV. Naturally, having backup power is essential, but ‘any’ power source can give that to you. Inverters have additional features worth investing in for your emergency prep plans.

Noise

Have you ever stood beside a regular generator? They’re loud. Not just a little noisy, but enough to damage your hearing over time.

It only takes eighty decibels to hurt your eardrums. Yet many generators put out over a hundred dB of sound. Furthermore, it’s hard to be stealthy or low-key if you’re screaming your whereabouts to anyone around.

Alternately an inverter generator typically makes about half as much noise. Fifty to sixty dB isn’t a whisper, but it won’t cause hearing loss.

Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is all the reason most smart preppers need to ditch the bigger generators. The more fuel you have to store, the harder it is to afford and make space for. Having reliable fuel-efficient inverter generators is a wise decision.

The smaller tank and engine contribute to weight as well. Less weight for similar run times means better survival odds for you.

Portability

Speaking of weight, a portable inverter generator is much easier to lift. While it might take two people to pick up a regular ‘portable’ generator, you can easily handle a smaller inverter alone. Typically they weigh forty to sixty pounds, as opposed to the seventy or more for other generators. It all adds up to make a good investment in your safety.

Choose a portable Champion 3100-Watt Remote Start inverter generator for clean electricity. Sensitive electronics can have issues with some power sources. Plus, Champion backs their inverters with a three-year limited warranty, and their customer service is outstanding. Click here for prices and availability on Amazon. 

Types of Inverter Generators for RVing

Most inverter generators use the same fuel source. Standard gasoline is easy to get and store. Better still, using an inverter generator is efficient, and that means you don’t need as much to do the same job.

The essential difference for inverter generators is the power output. You can get a relatively small thousand-watt generator. From there, they go up in size. If you have a large AC unit, you’ll need at least three thousand watts of output, or more if you plan to run that while you cook or do other things.

For those who prefer a smaller generator, the A-iPower SUA2000iV from Amazon is ideal. With two thousand watts of output, you can run most smaller air conditioners and have the power to spare. Plus, at a mere fifty pounds, you can lift this portable generator easily to put away. Find out more by clicking here. 

How Much Power Do You Need

It’s a common myth that more is better. Especially among preppers; this is dangerous thinking. It’s too easy to go from smart preparedness to unhealthy hoarding behavior. It’s much more essential to have the right equipment than it is to have the most.

At the same time, you have to balance your needs with enough to do the job. So how do you figure out how much power you need? Well, you’ll need to do some math. Still, the good news is that it’s just basic addition.

Wattage for Common RV Appliances

Every powered device inside your RV uses a specific amount of power. The list below will help you figure out how much. Depending on whether you run things at the same time, you’ll need more power.

• Rooftop AC Unit- These run from eleven thousand BTU to fifteen thousand. Assume you need a thousand to three thousand watts to run an ACU.
• Space Heater- Space heaters use around eighteen hundred watts.
• Electric Heating Pads & Blankets- Eighty to twelve-hundred fifty watts is normal.
• Fans- A fan uses approximately two hundred watts.
• Furnace Fans- You’ll need seven to fifteen hundred watts.
• Seventy-Five Watt Lightbulbs- Predictably, these use seventy-five watts each. Similarly, other wattages use the amount in the name.
• Refrigerator- Roughly five-hundred to seven-fifty watts for a small fridge is standard.
• Toaster- Making toast will ‘cost’ eight to fifteen hundred watts.

Check the wattage on all your devices, and add them up. Based on what you need to run at the same time, calculate your power needs. Try to avoid using multiple items at the same time. So long as you’re careful, you can keep a whole RV running on a single inverter generator for years.

Why Your RV Needs an Inverter

Camping and emergencies aren’t the only reason you’d need an inverter generator. People who tailgate often use external power sources. Parties are a lot more fun than any emergency, but whatever your reason, good backup power is vital.

Your RV uses three different electrical systems. Two twelve-volt DC systems run automotive and the coach. Meanwhile, a hundred-twenty volt AC system runs another part of the coach. Realistically, you need all three.

However, you’ll need an inverter generator for the latter. You are converting power from direct current to alternating current to run some of your large systems. Although the engine runs on DC, you need the AC system for air conditioning, power outlets, and the microwave.

Unless you plan to camp as you would in a tent, that AC system is what gives you all the benefits of having an RV. Sure, you can cook over a fire, and sweat in the summer heat, but why? The whole point of an RV is to have the luxury of power capabilities.

Converters Vs. Inverters

When hunting for an inverter generator for your RV, you need to know one crucial term. Converter. Because ‘inverter,’ sounds so much like ‘converter,’ it’s an easy mistake to make. Furthermore, they sell both for RVs.

The difference is literally everything. An inverter turns DC power into AC that runs big systems and gives you the ability to run ordinary household devices. However, a converter does the exact opposite. By turning AC into DC, you could charge a battery, but it won’t let you heat up a cup of coffee in your microwave, or cool off.

Make sure you don’t make this simple mistake. Not only will you lack the power you need, but you’ll waste money. Throwing away cash is like tossing your bug-out bag. As long as there’s a civil society that uses the money to trade for goods and services, you need cash. Proper prepping is all about having resources.

I recommend the Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter from Amazon. The Power Rush technology on this model gives you fifty percent more starting capacity. Furthermore, the GP3001i is parallel-ready, which means you can easily network two generators together for more power if you need it. Click here to get a Generac now. 

You Don’t Want An Open Frame Generator

When looking for an inverter generator, it’s easy to fall into a different trap. Open frame generators provide more power than most inverters. However, choosing the most power isn’t necessarily the best option.

For one thing, open frames are incredibly noisy. They often put out a hundred decibels or more. Unfortunately, that is a great way to garner unwanted attention. Moreover, in less than TEOTWAWKI situations, there are regulations for RV campsites and other areas. You need a quieter option.

Additionally, open frame generators are ridiculously heavy. While they typically come with wheels for more effortless movement, that’s not enough. In a pinch, you need a generator that you can pick up and stow quickly.

If noise and weight aren’t enough to deter you, keep in mind that a bigger generator takes more fuel. Plus, it’s a larger target for theft. Given a choice between more power and efficiency, make the smarter choice. Go with a portable inverter generator instead.

 

Final Thoughts

An inverter generator is invaluable for RV users. Having power is fine, but when it runs out, you’ll be left in the dark unless you give yourself options. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to add an excellent backup to your travel plans. Prepping is about having backup plans for every emergency.

Equally important is having the right power source. Check out this video for more info on why you need an inverter instead of an open frame generator. Remember, more isn’t always better, especially when it’s weight and fuel consumption.

A great inverter will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. More importantly, it could save your life.

 

With the need to store more products like milk, water, and food, powdered milk seems like the best option over raw milk since it lasts longer. The problem is that powdered milk has different expiration dates and storage requirements before and after mixing it. Many people wonder whether does powdered milk need to be refrigerated after mixing or not to make it last longer since people are using as a better alternative to other types of milk that spoil faster.

So, does powdered milk need to be refrigerated after mixing? Yes, powdered milk needs to be refrigerated after mixing or it goes bad. Ideally, you’ll consume the milk within 4-6 days after mixing it. After that, the mixed powdered milk usually spoils becoming unsafe to drink. Now, as long as it’s in its original powder state, it’s nonperishable.

The secret is to only mix the quantity that you’re going to consume within the 4-6 days period. This way, you’ll never waste good milk. Also, always make sure that you keep it in the refrigerator. Only take it out when you’re going to drink it. This is the best strategy to avoid it going bad.

Now, when it comes to powdered milk that hasn’t been activated, meaning it’s still powder, you don’t need to worry. It can last decades. The only thing is that after a few years it won’t taste as good as fresh powdered milk. The solution, in this case, is to use it for something else other than drinking like cooking.

Below you’re going to learn how to make sure your powdered milk lasts longer and tastes better. Also, you’ll learn how to store it. As you know, milk is a high-commodity during rough times, so you don’t want to waste any.

If You Don’t Refrigerate Powdered Milk It Spoils Faster

The main reason to refrigerate the powdered milk is that certain bacteria that are in it only grow under certain temperatures. This means that if you leave the powdered milk outside, these bacteria will grow and spoil the milk. That’s why you need to keep it in the refrigerator.

Now, you must know that once in the refrigerator, the milk may look funny after a couple of days. You don’t need to worry. Just mix the liquid again like you would with juice. Once you have a uniform solution, you can drink the milk with no concerns about it.

So, make sure that you do refrigerate your powdered milk after mixing it. You must do so to avoid spoiling the milk. Also, make sure you pick the good quality ones since certain types of powdered milk don’t last this long due to poor quality. The Milkman Lowfat Milk is one of the best-powdered milk that you can find. It tastes close to regular milk and lasts long in the right storage. Check it out here on Amazon.

Consume The Powdered Milk Within 6 Days

After 6 days, powdered milk goes either bad or loses its fresh taste. When food spoils, it pretty much means that an unhealthy number of bacteria and other microorganisms have taken control. If the bacteria population grows too much, the food becomes unsafe to eat. It’s not always that you’re going to smell or even taste something bad. Some bacteria are capable of masquerading all that. That’s why it’s important to respect the expiration date no matter what.

Now, when it comes to milk, it’s quite obvious when it got spoiled. It’ll smell and look horrible. Milk usually looks like some weird white cheese. It’s spongy and it has this almost transparent liquid under the spongy content. If you smell it, you can tell right away that it’s not good. In this case, do not drink it. You’ll get food poisoning and maybe even more health problems.

So, here’s what you’re going to do with the milk:

1. Prepare only what your family will consume within 6 days max
2. Always keep it in the refrigerator
3. Check the smell no matter how long it’s been on the fridge
4. When in doubt toss it away

The “Best By Date” Only Stands If You Haven’t Activated It

There’s always a lot of confusion with the best by date of powdered milk and other kinds of powdered food items. People think that what’s in the can is related to the prepared solution. That date refers to the powder and not the solution after mixing it. This is what you need to understand. The date in the recipient refers to the product as you bought it.

When it comes to powdered milk, it can last a long time before it’s activated. Powdered milk is just milk that’s been heated until it turned into powder. That’s one of the reasons why it lasts so long. Now, once it’s been mixed with water or raw milk, the same rules don’t apply.

If you keep in mind that the best by date refers to the powdered milk and that the 6 days rule refers to the milk after mixed with water, you’ll be good to go. Make sure that you store it under the right temperature, and your milk will last a long time. Now, if you don’t usually like the taste of powdered milk, there’s a tip below that might change your mind.

Consider Mixing It With Regular Milk To Stretch It

A lot of people hate powdered milk when mixed with water. It tastes different in a bad way. It’s lighter and sometimes even metallic in taste. The solution if you dislike the taste of powdered milk is to mix it with regular milk. Not only makes it taste better but it stretches the regular milk.

If you can’t buy regular milk all the time now due to price or availability in the supermarket, you can just make it last longer by adding powdered milk. You can double the amount of regular milk that you have with just a fair amount of powdered milk spoons.

Now, you need to mix the regular milk with the right kind of powdered milk. Ideally, you’ll choose high-quality and whole powdered milk. This not only tastes better but also lasts longer because it doesn’t require that you add too many tablespoons. The Deep Rich Nonfat Dry Milk is the best-powdered milk to mix with regular milk. Click to view pricing on Amazon here.

The Best Quality Powdered Milk Lasts Longer

Now, it may look repetitive to point out that powdered milk needs to be refrigerated after mixing and that you must choose a high-quality one to last as long as it’s possible, but it’s the truth. If you buy low-quality powdered milk it’ll spoil easily after a few days, and it won’t last long in your fridge. Then, you’ll feel cheated. That’s why you need high-quality powdered milk.

Once you understand that, the best way to make sure you’re getting the best quality for your money is to look at the type of powdered milk that you’re getting. If you want it to have a taste as close as possible to the taste of regular milk, pick the whole powdered one. If this isn’t a priority, pick the ones that mix better with water.

So, your goal is to find the best-powdered milk possible. This will make sure that it lasts the 6 days in the fridge and that it stretches regular milk if you want it to. A great option if you don’t know what to do is the Kesler Foods Fresh Dry Milk. It lasts longer, it goes well with water and milk, and it tastes really good. Grab yours here on Amazon.

Whole Powdered Milk Tastes Closer To Regular Milk

This is a valuable tip if you don’t know it yet. If you hate the taste of powdered milk, it’s likely because you never bought the whole powdered milk. This type of powdered milk has nutrients that the milk lost during the heating process to become powder. They inject the nutrients into it after the heating process is complete.

This means that the taste after you mix it with water is closer to regular milk than most powdered milk you’ve tasted before. It’s the best solution if you don’t like powdered milk.

So, what you should do is mix it with water or just regular milk. Whatever you do, you’ll notice that it tastes much better than the ones you had before. The Nestlé NIDO Powdered Milk is the best whole powdered milk that you can find. It tastes just as good as regular milk. Take a look on Amazon here.

What Can You Do With Expired Milk Powder

Powdered milk can last decades. The only problem that you face is that it doesn’t taste as good as the fresh ones. Apart from that, there’s no problem in consuming it.

The only thing that you must not do under any circumstance is to consume expired powdered milk after activated. After 6 days, you should not drink it at the risk of food poisoning.

So, make sure that you stay away from powdered milk after you’ve mixed it with water after 6 days. Now, if you have a powdered milk can in your pantry, you can safely consume it since it’s nonperishable. Just make sure you know how to mix powdered milk.

Final Thoughts

So, as you can see, powdered milk does need to be refrigerated after mixing. It’ll last around 4-6 days, and all you have to do is make sure to store it under the right temperature. If you want, don’t forget to mix it with regular milk to have more of it and reduce the number of times you have to go to the supermarket.

With law restrictions and bureaucracy to get a real gun in some states, people are looking for other alternatives to be able to protect themselves and their homes. Although there are a lot of options, it’s not that easy to find the right one for you. There’s also a lot of misinformation about whether can you use a BB gun for self-defense or other types of weapons like a taser.

So, when it comes to the law, can you use a bb gun for self-defense? You can use a bb gun for self-defense. Now, although it is legal to do so, it isn’t the #1 recommendation for self-defense. BB guns can hurt a home invader but they won’t do much damage, which is why some people prefer other alternatives.

The best that you can do is to have the bb gun and other weapons as well. The BB gun should be another tool that you have at your disposal and not the only one. As a matter of fact, you should think that of all the weapons that you may be considering getting.

The main problem with the bb gun is that they don’t have enough firepower to critically hurt a human being, in case you need them to. The worst that they can do is to hurt people but depending on who you’re shooting at, it will only slow them down and not stop them.

Now, you can have several bb guns around the house, and also other alternatives like tasers, bats, and even knives. Still, you should also use the bb gun for the accuracy that it gives over any other self-defense weapon. Just make sure that you don’t rely on it as your only option.

So, make sure that you use the bb gun but don’t depend solely on it. The precision is amazing but the power isn’t there to critically stop an invader. Below, you can see what the best strategy for using bb guns for self-defense is.

You Can Legally Use The BB Gun

To get things out of the way as soon as possible, let’s get the most important thing clear. It’s legal for you to use the bb gun for self-defense. You won’t have any problems with the law if you choose to do so. This is a great thing because it’s not everyone that can get a permit to own a gun. In this scenario, getting a bb gun can be a great option.

Now, the thing that most self-defense experts agree on is that relying on only one self-defense weapon isn’t ideal. In the case of the bb gun, this becomes even more obvious. This weapon isn’t effective in every situation, which forces you to have something else to protect yourself. Still, the bb gun is a very interesting option nonetheless.

So, in regards to the legality that you may be worried about, it’s completely legal to use the bb gun for self-defense. Ideally, make sure that you own more than one though. For self-defense purposes, more than just shooting practice, pick a model that has firepower and precision. The Umarex Glock 19 is a great choice for that. Take a look at it on Amazon here.

You Should Avoid Using Only Air Guns For Self Defense

The most practical advice that one can give you is to not rely on only one type of self-defense weapon. Even if you own a firearm. The truth is that whatever gun you choose, it can simply not work when you need it. That’s why the wisest thing for you to do is to have more than one bb gun and even other options in more than one location.

The reason is simple. You never know if you’re going to be able to reach the weapon when you need it. That’s why the most valuable tip that you can follow is that you should have a weapon in more than one location just in case you need it.

Now, although you can use a bb gun for self-defense, you should have more options. At least, have more than one. You can still use the bb gun although some experts in self-defense don’t recommend it since the bb gun isn’t sometimes enough to stop a home invader.

So, whatever you do, just make sure that you have more than one option. Also, make sure that you leave those options in more than one safe place in your home.

The BB Gun May Not Be Enough To Stop A Criminal

There may be a huge difference between an actual criminal than just one home invader trying to steal food. Real criminals don’t get scared at the sight of a gun, and they’re usually in a dangerous state either caused by drugs and alcohol or just by a state of euphoria. The point is that, in this case, the bb gun isn’t enough.

The most damage that a regular bb gun can make is making a deep cut to the person’s bones. Still, somebody in an altered state won’t stop because of that. That’s when the bb gun is a disadvantage. You don’t want something to just hurt the criminal. You want to stop them, and, in this case, the bb gun won’t be enough.

Now, if you want to scare a home invader or use the bb gun as a warning, then it can be the perfect self-defense weapon for this scenario. All you have to do is to make sure that you get the bb gun that shoots the fastest.

So, make sure to not only consider both scenarios but have weapons that’ll serve you better in each one.

Don’t Waste Time Modifying The BB Gun

Some people offer the suggestion of modifying the bb gun, so it shoots faster and with more power. The problem with that premise is that it’s not possible to modify it to the level that it’s as powerful as a firearm.

The point is that you’re going to get more power, but not enough to make sense trying to modify the gun. The best that you can do is to look for the best option for you and stick to the gun the way it was designed. This also ensures that it’ll work when you need it.

Now, the best strategy for you is to choose the most powerful bb gun that would work for you and have more than one option at your disposal. Then, that’s pretty much it. You don’t need to waste time and money trying to modify the gun since it won’t make it powerful enough to justify the modification.

So, just make sure that you select the bb gun that’ll work for you, knowing that modifying it won’t make that much difference. Besides, if you use the bb gun in the right situations, you won’t need that much firepower.

Pick The Ones That Shoots At 600 FPS

The bb guns that shoot at 600 FPS (feet per second) are the ones with the most firepower. This equates to 400 mph. Still, this doesn’t compare to the power of a firearm. That’s why bb guns are better for practicing shooting and having fun than actual self-defense and shooting people. They’re usually not enough to protect you from a criminal.

The second problem is that even though they can be incredibly realistic, the criminal may call you out on your bluff. That’s why you’re better off with other self0defense weapons. The bb gun can be used, but for specific purposes where you’re not dealing with a dangerous criminal.

Still, when you’re choosing a bb gun that you might want to use for self-defense, the best that you can do is to go with the most powerful one. In this case, you want to choose the models that shoot at 600 FPS.

Just make sure that you check that and that it’s a realistic model. The DPMS Full Auto SBR is the best recommendation for this category. It can be quite useful to use in various situations. Click to view pricing on Amazon here.

Give Preference To The Most Realistic Ones

Although you should always be aware that you may be called on your bluff, and that’s a terrible scenario for you, you should choose the most realistic one. The reason is that if you’re using it for self-defense, you want people to have a reaction to the gun. Now, if it looks like a toy, no matter how dangerous it is, people won’t take it seriously.

The good news is that there are a lot of models that resemble a firearm perfectly. Usually, those are the ones that emulate a revolver. They give a sense of realism to the weapon, which can be something useful for you depending on the situation that you find yourself in. Just remember that dangerous criminals usually aren’t afraid of firearms.

So, consider the exact use that you’re going to give the bb gun before choosing a model. Still, always make sure that it’s a realistic one no matter what you’re planning to use it for. The Umarex Glock 17 Blowback is the most realistic model in the market. You should definitely check it out on Amazon here.

Have More Than 1 BB Gun

One more tip that you should definitely pay attention to is that you need to have more than one bb gun. Ideally, you own at least two. The reason is simple, you want to be able to easily reach it when you need it. Not only that but you need more than one option as a self-defense weapon.

Now, you can choose between a smaller and a bigger model of bb guns to own. This is also a great idea if you’re only practicing shooting. This way, you’re getting acquainted with various gun sizes, which is crucial if you want to master shooting a gun.

This tip proves especially relevant for people that live in a house with more than one store. If you sleep on the second floor, you need to have an option on every level of the house. All you need to remember is to be careful with where you place those things since they aren’t toys.

So, make sure that you own more than one bb gun. Take a look at your favorite 2 models, and choose them. This way, you and your family will be a lot safer from anything.

Make Sure You Practice Before You Use It

The #1 thing that it’s the most neglected by anybody interested in self-defense is learning to use the weapon of choice. Although bb guns are widely used for practice, a lot of people forget to do that part. They don’t get familiar with how the bb gun operates and how they can better use it. The secret behind effectively using any weapon is mastering it.

This is why you should make sure that you practice a lot using the bb gun, so you can use it more effectively and faster. Only when every move has become second nature to you, you can accurately say that you’ve mastered the weapon. That’s when you’re really ready to use it.

During stressful situations, your brain loses its ability to think clearly. You’re hyper-focused but not able to remember things. That’s why you need to be so used to using the bb gun that you don’t need to remember how to operate it

So, always practice before using the bb gun. The great thing is that you can do it in your backyard. Whenever you have free time, you can just relax by practicing your aim and how fast you can do the whole process. 

Final Thoughts

So, you can use a bb gun for self-defense, but it’s not always the most recommended option for you. It’s important to have something for every occasion. Still, do consider having the bb gun for either practicing shooting or actually using it for self-defense in situations that you’re not dealing with someone that you need to stop for good.

During critical times, some basic supplies disappear. It’s not that there aren’t enough for everybody, but some people freak out and buy more than they actually need it like water or toilet paper. So, using water instead of toilet paper to clean yourself after going to the bathroom is actually one of the most useful things during those times.

If you’re still not completely convinced of this idea, keep in mind that most of the world uses water to clean themselves afterward. We’re talking about the developed world like most countries in Europe and Japan. It’s a matter of cultural acceptance toward the method and not a level of industrialism.

Now, if you want to learn how you can install a bidet – the most practical way to do this – in your home, you can find out in this article. This will be a step by step not only on how to do it but also why you should do it. And don’t worry, you can even use wipes at the end.

Maybe after this is over and toilet papers are available again you’ll still choose to stick to this method for an undetermined period of time.

So, make sure to read until the end to make sure that you execute the method correctly. It may seem weird, but since people aren’t used to doing this in America, it’s easy to get it wrong, and this is not one of the things that you can get wrong.

Installing A Bidet Is Easy

If you decide to buy a bidet separately for your toilet bowl, then you will have to get a professional to install it for you, unless you have the specific knowledge. Now, if you decide to get a bidet attachment to add to your toilet bowl, then it’s quite easy to use. All you need to do is follow a few easy steps.

#1 The first thing that you need to do is to detach your toilet seat. Then, you’re going to attach the bidet attachment to your bowl where the toilet seat was.

#2 You’re going to put the toilet seat back on after you’re done attaching and aligning the bidet.

#3 Turn off the cold and hot water supply and attach it to the bidet. This part is simple, but it can leak so be careful about that.

#4 Check the water supply in the sink and in the bidet. Make sure that you get this right or no water will come out of it.

#5 Make sure nothing is leaking. Test the bidet, but do not turn the regulator all the way. You don’t want the jet to be so strong that reaches your floor.

So, if you think it’s easy enough for you to do, check out the Veken Non-Electric Bidet. This is the easiest bidet attachment to install. It’s also an excellent one. Get one on Amazon here.

Flush Things Down First

Now that you have a bidet at your house, it’s time to get the gist of it. Learn how to use water instead of toilet paper. Since the supply of toilet paper isn’t great at the moment, it’s time to try something different.

The first thing that you should not forget to do is to flush things down first. This way things will get less messy for you. You must do this with the toilet seat down, so the bacteria won’t spread all over your bathroom.

If you can, make sure that you have a bidet at your house instead of a bidet attachment. The attachment is great, but the actual thing is better long-term. Since you don’t want to rely on toilet paper being easily available, consider this.

So, flush down things first. Also, make sure that you have the best kind of bidet that you can have. Always check if it has the hot water option since you’re definitely going to need it. The Bio Bidet Ultimate BB-600 is a high-rated bidet. Take a look at it on Amazon here.

Control The Temperature And The Jet To Make Sure It’s Alright

First-time users of a bidet get surprised sometimes when they realize that things can get uncomfortable depending on the pressure of the jet and the temperature of the water. That’s why you need to figure out how to use it correctly, especially when it’s your first time.

Don’t turn the pressure off the jet all the way. You don’t want it to be super strong until you get used to how it works. About the temperature, you also don’t want it to be too hot or too cold. That’s why you should stay in the medium part of the regulator until you get used to things.

As long as you make sure of this, you’re good to continue. So, make sure that you don’t turn it all the way. Control the temperature of the water and the jet until you feel comfortable with it. This is the best way to learn to use the bidet. It’s also the right way to use water instead of toilet paper.

Select The Feminine Nozzle Or The All-purpose Options

The next thing that you have to choose is between the feminine nozzle or the all-purpose option. If you’re a man, the choice is obvious. Go with the all-purpose option. If you’re a woman, then you might want to consider both.

The feminine nozzle also cleans the intimate female parts. This is an excellent option to make sure that you thoroughly clean everything in a non-invasive way. Remember that you still have to control the jet in this part.

Once you’ve selected this option, you need to allow for the bidet to do its work for a couple of minutes. This is the initial part. You still need to do the next steps to make sure that you’re completely clean.

Finally, after a couple of minutes, you can go to the next step to make sure that you finally learn to use water instead of toilet paper. If you this right, you’ll get cleaner than you used to with toilet paper.

Increase The Water Pressure To Thoroughly Clean Yourself

After a couple of minutes in the previous step, you should increase the water pressure to the highest number that you can still feel comfortable doing it. The higher the pressure of the jet, the more you can guarantee that you’re going to thoroughly clean yourself.

It’s also important that you do so incrementally, so you don’t get too uncomfortable unnecessarily. The temperature of the water should be whatever makes you comfortable. The jet should be increased as you get used to it. This is what makes sure that you get cleaned without having to use your hands.

So, make sure that you increase the water pressure to thoroughly clean yourself. A high-quality level bidet will definitely give you options to get the pressure that you need from the jet. Just make sure that you choose the right one. The Tibbers Bidet is an excellent option. It has various options for water pressure and temperature. You’re going to love it. Click here to view pricing on Amazon.

Finish With A Wipe Or A Cloth

Some people are uncomfortable with the idea of having to how they’re going to dry themselves. First of all, if you get this right the jet will be strong enough not to get you wet, but you can still finish the steps with a wipe or a cloth.

All you have to do is to use the wipe or the cloth so you don’t wet your clothes or the floor. Although that won’t happen, if you did things right.

So, make sure to finish with a wipe or a cloth, if you’re not comfortable getting up when you’re not sure that you’re not completely dry.

Honorable Mention: Toilet Paper Pills

This is a great tip whether you want to use it after you’ve finished using the bidet, or you want to wait until toilet paper is widely available. Still, it’s a great idea to have a bidet, so you never depend on toilet paper anymore. Anyway, the tip is toilet paper pills.

They’re widely used by campers and hikers. They’re small pills that you open and get a nice amount of toilet paper from the inside. The content is compressed, so a lot can fit inside the pill. It’s a practical and effective way to put a lot of toilet paper inside something small.

So, you should definitely consider getting a few toilet paper pills. They’re easy to carry and to use. They’re a great solution for those that can’t live without toilet paper. The KISEER Pill is the best option in the market right now. Grab yours on Amazon here.

Final Thoughts

So, this is how you can use water instead of toilet paper. Make sure that you have a great bidet to use, and follow the simple steps presented in the article. It’s not that hard to do and you can rest assured that you’re going to get properly clean with this method.

 

Having a fire extinguisher in any facility is vital to ensure everyone’s safety. After all, you never know when a fire will start. It’s also important to have one at home since most fires start in a kitchen or garage. Now, the most common question is how many times can you use a fire extinguisher since most people are torn between throwing it away or keeping it after using it for the first time.

The truth is that it depends on a few factors. So, how many times can you use a fire extinguisher? You can use a fire extinguisher many times as long as you recharge it and refill it. The exact number of times depends on the type and the brand. Now, once you’ve removed the pin and used some of the content, you have to have professional recharging and refilling of it.

As you can see, you need to know more about fire extinguishers. From knowing when to recharge it to where and how to use it. If you want to know all this and make sure that you use it correctly in case you ever need it, just read more below.

There’s an easy acronym to help you remember how to use it and the expiration date for a household fire extinguisher. All you have to do is to read carefully until the end.

You Can Use A Fire Extinguisher More Than Once As Long As You Refill It

The number of times that you can use a fire extinguisher will vary accordingly to the type and the brand of the fire extinguisher that you’re using. Therefore, it’s hard to determine the exact number of times that you’re going to use it. Not only that but you also have to worry about how much of the content have you used to try to put out the fire.

The only thing that you can know is that you will have to refill the fire extinguisher and recharge it. The refilling process is to replace the foam that you used when putting out the fire. The recharging is to actually regulate the pressure after you’ve taken the pinout. This is to make sure that the fire extinguisher will work properly.

So, make sure to always refill and recharge the fire extinguisher after you’ve used it. Also, make sure that you have a high-quality one at your home and place of work. This is the only way to make sure that it’ll work the way it’s supposed to. The First Alert Fire Extinguisher PRO 5 is one of the best recommendations when it comes to fire extinguishers. It’s high-quality and easy to use. Click here to view on Amazon.

Remember P.A.S.S Before Using The Fire Extinguisher

This is one of the easiest acronyms to remember, and it’s quite a useful one. It’ll help you to properly use the fire extinguisher and it only requires 4 steps. It’s so easy that even kids learn it. So, make sure that you repeat it enough times until you’ve memorized it. P.A.S.S.

• P= pull
• A= aim
• S= squeeze
• S= sweep

The first step is for you to pull the pin completely out of the fire extinguisher. Keep in mind that you’re supposed to maintain control of the nozzle to make sure that you don’t just hit something else that it’s not on fire.

Then, you must aim. This part is quite easy since it only requires that you direct the extinguisher to the place that it’s on fire. You must aim at the origin of the fire since that’s where you can end it for good.

Next, you’re going to squeeze the handle with the other hand that it’s not controlling the nozzle. You have to be firm and try to be calm. Oftentimes people get frightened at the sound of the extinguisher after you press the handle.

Finally, you do a sweep motion with the nozzle of the extinguisher. This allows you to put out the fire much faster than any other technique.

You Cannot Put The Pin Back In It

This is a common misconception that people have, and it’s important to point it out. You should never put the pin back in the fire extinguisher. You need to have a professional regulating the pressure to normal levels. When you pull the pin out of the fire extinguisher, you take the pressure off of it. When you’re going to use it again, it might not work properly.

Now, this can’t be emphasized enough. You should never put the pin back in it. Just make sure that you use the fire extinguisher properly, and then, have a professional handling it for you. They’ll be able to put the extinguisher back to its ideal state.

So, make sure that you don’t put the pin back in yourself. It’s important to refill the fire extinguisher even if you didn’t use it too much it. You don’t want to not have enough next time you decide to use it. Look for a large one. The First Alert FE2A10GR is one of the best fire extinguishers that are large in size. Get yours from Amazon here.

Household Fire Extinguishers Last 6-12 Years

There’s a good chance that you either have or are thinking about having a fire extinguisher at your house. In this case, you don’t need to get those that are for commercial buildings. A household fire extinguisher is enough for you. No need to go get a super large one.

Now, if you do decide to get a household fire extinguisher, you should keep in mind that they last 6-12 years while they’re unused. This is great since it lasts a long time, but it’s really easy to forget that you need to replace the one you have with a new one.

So, make sure that you do get a household fire extinguisher, but make sure that you keep track of its expiration date. Otherwise, you risk having a fire extinguisher that doesn’t work properly. The Amerex B500 is excellent for household use. Grab yours on Amazon here.

Always Check What Type Of Fire Extinguisher You’re Handling

There are 5 main types of fire extinguishers. You should always make sure that you get the ones that will work for normal fires in a household, or you risk getting the one that won’t get the job done. They’re classified by letters and they mean the type of chemical that they have inside like foam, water, and etc.

The best that you can choose for a household is the A-B-C extinguisher or universal extinguisher. This type of fire extinguisher handles more than one type of object on fire. It’s excellent for houses because you can usually have more than one room on fire, which would mean different necessities.

So, make sure that you get a universal fire extinguisher if you’re looking for one for your house. It’s also important to check out the size of the can and the quality of the brand. The First Alert HOME1 is one of the highest-rated fire extinguishers for homes. Take a look at it on Amazon here.

Make Sure You Have A Professional Recharging It

This was highlighted before, but make sure that you recharge the fire extinguisher every time after you’ve used it. When you take the pin out, so you can use it, you take the pressure that it’s inside off as well. This means that the fire extinguisher won’t work as well the next time if you don’t have a professional handling it.

This is simple and rather inexpensive, so you don’t need to worry. Now, you can also decide to have more than one fire extinguisher, so you don’t have to worry about refilling it or recharging it. You just get rid of the used one and get the new one to replace it.

So, remember to have professional recharging and refilling the fire extinguisher. If that’s not for you, then just get a new one. It’s actually a good idea to have more than one around the house. The First Alert 1038789 is another excellent recommendation, in case you’re considering having more than one fire extinguisher. Click here to view the pricing on Amazon.

When It’s Time Take To The Right Place For Disposal

It’s always important to point that you should dispose of the fire extinguisher properly. So, the final tip is to do so. You can dispose of it in a recycling center or with the local fire department.

Whichever way you choose, the important thing is to not just throw it away with your regular trash. The content is toxic, so it’s a real danger for you and the population in general.

So, make sure that you take the used fire extinguisher to a recycling center or the fire department.

Final Thoughts

That’s how many times you can use a fire extinguisher. You can use it more than once, but you should have it recharged and refilled. That’s the safest and the best thing that you can do.