It would sound like mumbo jumbo if you grew up in a house where the doctors’ office had the final say in all medicinal treatment. However, you can treat viruses with essential oils. Medical science is a wonder, but what will you do when society as we know it collapses? The supplies of medicine would run out soon enough. Gardens are highly sustainable, and learning to make essential oils takes a lot less time than medical school. When I started learning about essential oils years ago, I was skeptical at best. Nowadays, there’s plenty of research to back up what I learned over the years.

What essential oils kill viruses? Essential oils that heal viruses include cinnamon, lemongrass, clove, eucalyptus, and tea tree. Antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties in many plants can help even resistant strains of the flu and other viral infections. Moreover, they can aid in other forms of healing. 

Cinnamon Oil

“Cinnamon appeared to deactivate viruses…”

-From FoxNews.Com

We all know that essential oils can help fight viruses, bacteria, and more. However, modern science has been slow to study these natural substances. I am not a doctor or other medical professional, but I have seen some of the positive effects of essential oils firsthand. Yet my vouching for it is not the same as a reliable study showing that an oil works.

Fortunately, the studies are finally happening. In 2015, Touro College in New York did a study using clove, cocoa, onion, peppermint, Spanish saffron, and both Saign and Ceylon cinnamon to see whether any of these plants could help cure viral infections.

The Proof

The study tested against Phi X, which infects bacteria. Although Phi X isn’t the same as human or animal viruses, it is similar. An extract made from just ten percent cinnamon oil was incubated for twenty-four hours. After the day, 99.9 to 100% of the virus was deactivated, showing clearly that the oil is antiviral. Better still, it means cinnamon oil is scientifically likely to stop human viruses.

Always choose a high-quality organic cinnamon oil. I recommend Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil from Natures Oil on Amazon because it’s therapeutic grade. With nine ounces of USDA certified oil with every batch individually tested, you can use this oil for quite a while. To find out more about this oil, click here. 

Cinnamon is also useful for enhancing circulation, soothing sore joints, and calming sore throats. You can use this oil for massage to help ease sore muscles more than a mere rub could accomplish. As a bonus, tiny amounts of the oil will also provide much-needed flavoring in food.

Lemongrass Oil

Another essential oil you need to keep around for treating viruses is lemongrass. Not only does it smell fantastic, but the effects on both herpes and preventing mosquitoes who carry yellow fever have been studied. The results were surprisingly positive.

A mere 0.01% infusion of lemongrass oil stopped herpes simplex replication in vitro. What does that mean for broader practical applications? Well, we can guess that a mixture as small as one to one hundred could help stop a herpes outbreak.

No one likes to admit they have an STD or a cold sore. However, both are very common. Almost twelve percent of American adults have HSV-2. Sadly nearly fifty percent of adults in the USA have HSV-1 or oral herpes (also known as cold sores).

Lemongrass is “Fevergrass”

Naturally, many oils like lemongrass are useful for reasons that haven’t been studied in a lab. After all, humans have been using these natural medicinals for thousands of years. Still, it pays to see the effects in scientific terms, so you don’t get scammed by a placebo product from herbal snake oil salesmen.

Lemongrass is also commonly known as fevergrass because it’s used to treat fevers. Additionally, it may be useful against digestive issues, and pains, and even bacteria. It’s known for treating acne, oily hair, and achy joints as well.

You can get a fantastic therapeutic grade Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil, from Healing Solutions on Amazon. HS has its oils GCMS tested for purity. The company guarantees superior oil by putting its money where its mouth is with a money-back guarantee. I like a company that stands behind the products they make. You can check the prices and availability of this outstanding oil when you click here. 

Clove Oil

Like all the essential oils on this list, clove is useful against viruses. Unlike most, it has been studied for use against Hepatitis and Herpes. However, clove oil is helpful for its painkilling effect. More on that in a moment.

Hepatitis C is more common than most people know because many of the people who have it don’t realize they’re infected. Some of the side effects of untreated HCV include cancer of the liver and cirrhosis. Hepatitis is blood-borne and can kill you if left untreated.

The good news is that there are inoculations. Also, so long as the modern medical world continues, you can cure HCV in about three months. Sadly, that will cost you around a hundred thousand dollars. As a result, many sufferers end up treating the symptoms instead.

Clove Oil is a Multitool

In my home, we use powdered clove and clove oil on toothaches and sore gums until we can get to the dentist. It was instrumental in keeping me functional when my wisdom teeth came in. Without my clove, I would have been out of the game for about two weeks waiting on a triple extraction.

Unfortunately, some people find clove causes a stinging, and temporary increase in pain before the numbing effect sets in. While this can be uncomfortable, it’s nowhere near the pain level of cutting an adult wisdom tooth.

Whether you need clove oil for teeth, cold sores, or HCV, you can save space in your emergency supply kit by adding a single treatment for all these problems. The great news is that you can pick up a huge thirty-two-ounce bottle of SVA Organics Clove Bud Essential Oil from Amazon. With plenty of essential oil for all your heating and cooking needs, you can rest a little easier knowing you’re well prepared. Grab yours while it’s in stock by clicking right here. 

Eucalyptus Oil

“Eucalyptus globulus and Cinnamomum Zeylanicum EOs also have been reported to have antiviral activity (Astani, Reichling, & Schnitzler, 2010; Cermelli, Fabio, Fabio, & Quaglio, 2008; Vimalanathan & Hudson, 2014)”

Eucalyptus oil has always been used as an expectorant and aid for coughing in winter. However, it’s also useful as an antiviral according to the Pub Med article I quoted above. Multiple studies cite its effectiveness.

Moreover, eucalyptus has a long history of use that is easy to trace. Plus, you’ll see the positive effects on breathing-related issues in moments with just a couple of drops in a hot bath. It’s hard to argue with near-instant visible results.

COVID-19 Vs. The Flu: Why You NEED Eucalyptus

The current Corona Virus (COVID-19) outbreak is the big talking point on everyone’s minds these days. Yet, this potentially deadly virus that has claimed 2,462 lives around the world is incredibly similar to influenza, the common flu. The flu, however, claimed 16,000 victims in 2019 alone.

Because Eucalyptus essential oil is capable of taking on resistant strains of the flu, you need to have this in your arsenal. There’s no evidence that eucalyptus will stop COVID-19, but it might help. It’s certainly worth a try.

Of all the potentially lifesaving essential oils, this is the one I never let my home run out of. In fact, I keep more than one bottle and use them up regularly, especially during cold and flu season. There’s no excuse for being miserable when you have a solution on hand.

You can pick up your own Anti-Flu essential oil for your emergency preparedness supplies. I suggest Eve Hansen Organic Eucalyptus Oil from Amazon. Four ounces of USDA certified organic reassurance will go a long way. Even if the world doesn’t end, using this to alleviate flu symptoms will help you and your loved ones rest easier and probably heal faster. Click here to get a bottle right away. 

Tea Tree Oil Vs. Thyme

Anyone who uses essential oils to fight viruses, bacteria, and other health issues can tell you that tea tree oil is crucial. Sadly, unlike many of the oils I’ve discussed today, you should not swallow tea tree oil. Although it is useful topically on numerous infections and possesses antiviral capabilities, it will also make you ill if you take it internally.

While I still suggest keeping tea tree around, I’d like to suggest an alternative that you can swallow. Thyme oil is an underused and often underestimated antiviral. Although most people keep thyme in the kitchen for cooking, they rarely consider its medicinal qualities.

While all the essential oils in this article are immensely useful, thyme is one of the most gentle. It’s easy to mix into smoothies or other cold foods, but I don’t suggest heating it. The warmth could destroy some of the effects of the oil by degrading it.

Better Options

Another article from the good people at NCBI, which publishes medical studies, has shown that thyme is as effective as tea tree oil or eucalyptus in killing herpes simplex. Specifically, both are capable of reducing viral activity by 96% in their essential oil form. That’s 16% more effective than when they’re reduced to monoterpenes instead of used as-is.

It’s okay to use tea tree oil if you’re aware of the safety precautions. However, I would strongly suggest that you pick up some Zongle Thymus Vulgaris Oil from Amazon for your emergency medical kit. They produce oils ethically, without pesticides or preservatives. Better yet, thyme oil is child-safe (when appropriately diluted). You’ll find this kid-safe thyme oil by clicking right here. 

More Useful Oils for Emergencies

There are plenty of essential oils that help with viruses, bacteria, and other health conditions. Narrowing them down to just my top picks for antivirals was a challenge. There are four additional oils that any emergency prepper should have around for health reasons.

Lemon Oil

To help you keep things clean, lemon oil is excellent. Just a few drops in a spray bottle with clean water can help cut down on kitchen messes and contamination. No one needs food poisoning during the collapse of society.

Lavender Oil

This is an old classic standby for sleep problems. It helps calm anxiety, stress, depression, and sleeplessness. However, lavender may also be antibacterial and antifungal. Moreover, it’s used for insect bites and burns.

Citronella Oil

Citronella is one oil you need all summer. Mosquitoes carry viruses, and when it’s warm out, there are bound to be plenty of bugs. Using a blend that includes citronella can help prevent mosquito bites. Resultantly, you won’t get the virus they carry in the first place. That’s a significant win.

Coconut Oil

I could give you a laundry list of reasons why you absolutely must have coconut oil on hand. For one thing, you can use some coconut oil and Tumeric to brush your teeth, especially if you have any infection in your mouth. Plus, you can cook with it for healthy, flavorful meals.

However, the most important reason to buy a giant jar of coconut oil and restock it regularly is that it’s an ideal supplemental oil for all your others. Use the coconut to dilute anything else in your supplies for proper dosage.

Using & Storing Your Oils

Before using essential oils for viruses, you need to do two things. First, you’ll want to check whether the oil can be ingested. Furthermore, you should only buy food-grade oils if you plan to swallow them.

Secondly, it’s vital to dilute your oils in a safe carrier. Jojoba is great for the skin, but I suggest purified coconut oil. The benefit of coconut is that you can use it for internal and external applications.

Unless you are absolutely sure it’s safe, undiluted essential oil should never touch your skin. The same chemical compounds that make them so users can also cause chemical burns. Moreover, some oils will make you sick if swallowed.

Oil Safety

It’s vital to learn the applications of your oils. You need to know the recommended dosage and frequency. Additionally, you will need clearly labeled bottles for mixing. Light exposure can destroy the oil. Always store oils in dark glass containers with secure lids.

When you pack oils in your emergency supplies, you should wrap the bottles to secure them. While some people might suggest bubble wrap, I recommend avoiding disposable materials. Instead, take extra bandanas or other useful cloth items, and use them as a buffer to keep your glass from rattling around, and breaking.

A good wrap will help keep lids from coming loose. Furthermore, should something break, the cloth will help absorb the leakage. You may be able to squeeze some of the oil into a clean container, be careful not to cut yourself on any broken glass.

Final Thoughts

As long as you have access to modern medicine, you should use it. Keep in mind; I’m not a doctor or medical professional. You should only resort to emergency self-treatment if there’s no longer medical service available because society or the world has ended. Keeping a supply of essential oils and seeds to grow more could save your life.

When the world, as we know it ends, your first goal is to survive. Beyond that, you need to rebuild to thrive. A virus can sweep through your group and wipe everyone out in a few days if you have no preparation in place for illness.

Growing and collecting essential oils could save your life in an emergency. Don’t leave these oils out of your emergency preparations.

Every preparedness guru knows that you need a generator. Unless you are prepared to live without power, a sound generator is essential to your emergency plans. However, buying one isn’t enough. If you’re anything like me, then operating your first generator safely can be a challenge. Fortunately, I’ve had them for years now, and I’ve learned more than a little about using them correctly.  I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about overnight and continuous generator power.

Is it okay to leave a generator running all night? You can run the right generator all night, or longer. It’s essential to choose a generator that is rated for long term use. Moreover, you need to make sure you have it set up correctly, and shielded from wet conditions. 

How Long Can You Run a Generator

Running your generator overnight can save your life in extreme weather. However, not all generators are created equal. Some are only designed for a few hours of use. Meanwhile, others require solar power, which means they won’t work in a storm.

How can you tell what your generator is capable of when you need it? Well, unless you bought secondhand, you should have a box and instructions with your equipment. These will indicate the fuel and duration of the generator. Always check the specs.

I suggest picking up a Westinghouse WGen 7500 from Amazon. It lasts up to sixteen hours on a 6.6-gallon tank of gas. That’s more than enough to keep you and your loved ones in light, heat, cooling, and refrigeration. Plus, you can use this generator continuously as long as you have fuel and proper ventilation. It’s vital to choose a high-quality generator like the WGen 7500, so you don’t end up stuck in the dark. You can find more information about this outstanding option when you click here.

As long as your generator is capable of running for at least eight hours, you can run it all night. It’s better to choose a generator designed to run twice that long. Keep in mind that ‘up to’ eight hours doesn’t always mean that the real-world application will run for a full eight hours. Fuel, weather, and wear and tear on your machine will affect how long your power source works.

What Kind of Generator Do You Need

Running a generator overnight is fine, but it won’t do you much good if you don’t have the right kind of generator for your needs. You don’t want to run out of power at a critical moment.

I always suggest portable generators to newbie preppers. You can pick them up if you need to evacuate, which is the best reason to choose a mobile unit. However, as I mentioned before, not all portables are the same. There are different fuel sources and power outputs. So how do you know what you need? I’ll help you sort it out quickly so you can get the right generator.

Fuel Sources

To decide what type of generator you need, you must first consider where the power will come from. To make power, you have to have fuel. Typically generators come in three varieties. You can find combo-generators that have more than one type of power source as well.

Solar

A solar-powered generator isn’t always the most efficient option, but the sun isn’t going out anytime soon. If it does, your generator won’t save you. That said, you do need to live somewhere with a lot of sun for this style to be practical for you.

Battery

A battery-powered generator needs to plug into an electrical power source o work. You can store extra batteries as long as your generator allows you to swap out the batteries. However, a generator with an integrated battery can’t be changed. If your power source will plug into a car or car battery, that’s another way to store extra power by keeping additional car batteries.

Gas

Gas (or Propane Gas)-powered portable generators are relatively self-explanatory. You need gasoline or propane to run them. Storing gas isn’t difficult, though, like batteries, you need to make sure it has a cool, dry place sealed off from any inclement weather.

My top choice for a portable gas or propane generator is the Champion Dual Fuel. Any generator with multiple options for fuel is a bonus. The Champion lives up to its mighty name with automatic low oil cut off, and 3400 watts of output. Better yet, it’s quiet. Pick up a Champion for your home when you click here. 

Whatever the fuel source for your portable generator, you need to make sure you have plenty of access to spare fuel. Moreover, all types of generators require regular inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Ideally, you should inspect all your supplies and equipment monthly or bi-monthly. However, you can push that to a quarterly review so long as your safety practices are top-notch.

How Much Power Do You Need

Everyone has different needs in terms of power. A typical household needs 3000 to 7000 watts of electricity. If you’re a minimalist, you might get by on less, but you should always overestimate when preparing for an emergency.

Unless you have a water pump, a large furnace, and other major power needs, 3000-5000 watts should suffice for your home. If you’re concerned about it or have a large house with lots of electrical equipment, shoot for 5000-7500 watts instead.

Where Should You Put a Portable Generator

Before you can run your generator all night, you need to install it. Don’t make the rookie mistake of setting it the first place you see some flat ground. Moreover, you shouldn’t place a generator indoors. So, where do you put it?

A generator should be located near the fuse box, if at all possible. When you can’t place it nearby, make sure you have appropriate cords to connect it to your home. However, I suggest building a small, open-sided shelter on the side of your home. Place it besides, but never in front of your fuse box.

Generators need a flat surface. Never place your generator on its side. Likewise, you shouldn’t put it on a slope. Angling your power source could cause all sorts of problems. Especially alarming is the fuel register. You don’t want to burn up a generator because a tilted fuel tank is registering as full when it’s not. Similarly, you want to avoid overfilling a container that says it’s not filled up.

Make sure you check local ordinances. Local laws can affect where you place your portable generator. If society collapses, all bets are off. However, until then, you don’t need to pay tickets for something you could easily avoid by using google, or your phone to check local laws.

Weather & Your Generator

Whether you’re looking for all-night power from your generator, or years of continuous use, there are times when you need to turn it off. You shouldn’t run most generators in extreme weather.

High winds that could tear out your generator or collapse a building on top of it spell danger. Don’t risk a fire or power surge if your emergency is gale-force winds. However, there are occasions when you need to use your candles and emergency food coolers instead.

Wait until the danger has passed before turning on your generator after extreme weather. Furthermore, you need to be aware of other weather issues like fuel source availability. For example, if you have no stored gas, and a blizzard hits, it’s useless. When you can’t get fresh supplies, you need to have them stored. (You should be doing this anyhow)

Solar and battery-operated generators are always an option. However, they come with the same necessary restrictions as other generators. Without fuel, they don’t work. Keeping backup batteries charged is essential when you use a battery-operated generator.

Solar generators can work anywhere. However, a solar generator is more useful in Phoenix, Arizona than Seattle, Washington. Inclement weather is one issue, but standard weather patterns are also a significant consideration before you choose a generator. Any emergency supplies are better than none. Unfortunately, it’s only an emergency supply if you can use it. Otherwise, it’s a fancy paperweight.

Water is the Enemy of Generators

Similarly, floodwaters, leaks, and little drips can cause a big disruption to your power supply. Striking a balance between the need to shield your generator, and giving it good airflow can be tough. Still, it’s worth the effort if you plan to survive. Emergency preparedness doesn’t work if you’re not motivated to use and store your equipment correctly.

If you live somewhere that is exceptionally moist, like Louisiana, for example, then you should check on your generator more often. Moisture buildup, mold, and other damp environment issues can contribute to premature generator loss or damage.

Don’t Take Risks With Generators

No power source is worth your life. Make sure your generator is somewhere that water won’t leak into it. Whether it’s rain, snow, sleet, hail or floodwaters, liquid and electricity don’t mix.

Place your generator somewhere on the ground. Additionally, it should be shielded from the elements, yet have excellent airflow around it. Secure the wheels and the generator so they won’t roll or walk away.

Always Use the proper fuel and heed all safety warnings. Playing fast and loose with your generator is a risk to your health and life. Being prepared for an emergency means not causing one through negligence.

How To Secure Your Generator

Generators that run all night need the same safety precautions as other generators. Primarily they need to be secure, out of the way, supplied with fuel, maintained, and monitored. You can easily accomplish all of these goals.

1. Secure- Your generator is a target for thieves, yet it must be accessible for you. Choose a quiet generator and locking it to something with a secure cut-proof chain and high-quality padlock. Additionally, generators with wheels should be locked or blocked in place.
2. Out of the Way- Do not place your power supply in the middle of walking paths. Make sure your generator has clearance and airflow around it. You may be tempted to put it in a shed or basement, but generators need to be outdoors.
3. Power Cord Placement- In addition to keeping the unit out of your path, make sure you keep the power cords securely out of your way. They can be a tripping hazard. I suggest running wires through an insulated pipe that is buried underground if you plan to install your portable away from the side of your home.
4. Fuel & Maintenance- So long as society is functional, you can have your generator serviced on time. However, I suggest getting familiar with the tools and parts. Moreover, keep a supply of all the fuel and oil you need in safely stored containers.
5. Monitoring- You’ll need a Carbon Monoxide monitor for safety with your generator. Skipping this step could kill you. Also, it’s a good idea to have surveillance. Generators are high-value targets. Thieves will take them if you allow it. Spare a wireless camera from your home security to get a view of your generator.

Emergency Cutoffs

An important feature that all generators should have is an emergency cutoff. If the fuel or oil gets too low, it can destroy your power source. Hence, you need to check that your generator has emergency shutdowns in place. If you purchase a generator that can’t shut itself down, then you need to make sure you check on it every few hours at most.

When you don’t plan to run a whole house, you can always opt for a great battery or solar-powered portable generator. The advantage of battery or solar power is that you don’t need to worry about fuel issues burning out your motor. I keep a battery-solar backup portable generator in addition to my regular fuel-powered option in case of theft.

I like the PRYMAX Portable Power Station from Amazon because it has a battery backup. You can charge it from a car battery or home outlet in addition to the solar panels. Plus, the emergency light option is incredibly useful. Check prices and availability by clicking right here. 

Additional Generator Safety

Whether you run a generator all night or just for a few hours when the power is out in summer, it’s important to remember the little things. Like all emergency equipment, you should check your generators once a season when not in use. There are other primary safety considerations for all-night generators as well.

Don’t overload an outlet. Not only do you need to check your wiring for a generator that’s in use, but you need to make sure you can charge it properly. Electric generators can blow a fuse if you plug them into an outlet that can’t handle the power draw. Then you’ll be without power, and you’d have no useable generator.

For gas-powered generators, you need to fill them safely. There’s more to it than making sure you have gas. Never fill a generator while it’s running. You should always turn the generator off completely and unplug it before you add oil, service it, or fuel up.

Final Thoughts

https://youtu.be/JBgfw-B2rRs

Running a generator isn’t rocket science, but it does take some preparation. The crucial information I’ve given you here will help you to run your generator safely. Proper research could save you a nasty shock, or worse.

No one wants to throw away money. Running your generator poorly is like throwing cash in a vat of acid. Rather than wasting your money, and going without power, follow these safety guidelines. You can run your generator safely, and do more than merely survive. You can thrive, even in an emergency.

Make sure you always read the instructions on a new generator. Take your time and set it up correctly, so you’ll have the power you need when the SHTF.

The car broke down, and it’s snowing. You’re far from the nearest town, and there’s no sign of any houses nearby. Hopefully, you’ve got help coming, and a way to stay warm, but what if you get dehydrated? You eat some snow… don’t you? Sorting the facts from fiction when it comes to survival can be difficult, but I’ve got the skinny on staying hydrated in winter storms.

Is it safe to eat snow when thirsty? Eating snow when you’re thirsty is not safe. Everyone knows to avoid the yellow snow, but color alone isn’t enough to tell you if snow is contaminated. Like all water sources, you should always filter water from snow before you drink (or eat) it.  

Snow is Dirty

It looks so pristine lying there on the ground, so many people eat snow when they’re thirsty. Yet snow is not as clean as you might think. Unfortunately, as it falls from the sky, snow picks up airborne pollutants. Car exhaust, factory smoke, and other contaminants are part of that pretty white blanket.

I won’t give you a pithy line about making snap judgments based on what you think you see. However, when survival is on the line, trusting your eyes alone means overlooking many dangers.

What You Don’t See

You don’t see many stories on acid rain anymore, but it still exists. Because snow comes from the same place as rain, acid snow is a real phenomenon. Furthermore, it’s a danger to your body.

The buildup of pollution in the atmosphere collects in the clouds. The result can do much more than peel the paint off of cars. Other, less apparent pollutants from fires and human activity also get trapped in your snow.

Next time you see cute kids trying to catch snowflakes on their tongues, think twice about what’s really going on there.

You need an outstanding water filter to make any water drinkable. No matter how clean it looks. Pack a Survivor Filter Pro from Amazon in your BOV for peace of mind. While a lot of filters are tested to remove anything down to a micron in size, this one is certified down to 0.01 microns. That means it will catch what others fail to get out of your drink. Learn more by clicking here. 

Obvious Problems

Yellow snow is gross, but it’s not the only danger out there. Pink snow, for example, can be a warning sign. When concentrations of iron from the soil below leach into a snowbank, the color is often pink. A little extra iron won’t hurt you, but this form isn’t healthy.

It’s vital to take the time to examine any snow you plan to melt for drinking water. When it looks dirty, it is dirty. Snow with visible debris is a no-no. Additionally, any snow that isn’t the right color, off white, pink, or any other color should be avoided.

Grey snow at the roadsides is worse for you than yellow will ever be. Regardless of the color, snow from roadways is never the right choice. Not only does it carry pollution from the cars and the road surface, but also other sources. Road sweepers may use chemicals to clean, and the salt used to remove snow builds up in these areas.

Snow is Cold

Eating snow when you’re thirsty is foolish at best. A single mouthful isn’t the problem, though you won’t get very much water from it. However, cooling your body down when it’s cold out is the path to hypothermia and death.

Causing yourself to freeze at the core and waste energy to heat frozen water internally can kill you very quickly. However, if you are warm, or too warm, and you have a bottle handy, packing it with snow might allow you to use body heat to melt it. Place the container inside your clothing, but not against your skin. As long as you are moving and staying warm, the snow will melt.

Using this as a stopgap while you hunt for a source of unfrozen water could save you. However, you should always have a way to start a fire if you’re going out in the cold. Regardless of whether you think you need it, fire starters are essential.

Do You Have Water

If you have water, but it’s not enough, adding snow into your existing source will help it melt faster. The heat exchange will be higher. Therefore, the warmer water will help you make more liquid from the powder.

Keep in mind; it’s still not safe to drink that water. You should get a good portable water purifier to keep in your car. Choose one like the Sawyer Products Gravity Water Filtration System from Amazon that you can easily carry with you. It will hold up to a gallon at a time so that a whole family can use it. Even more critical, The GWFS has a syringe you can fill with clean water to clean the filter. Pick one up now by clicking here.

You can use the last of your current water supply, and the technique I described above to melt more snow into water easily. Having a bag or bottle filtration system is more practical for unfreezing water than a straw filter. Always take the right tool for the job, and you will survive.

It’s Never Enough

The myth that you can or should eat snow if you’re thirsty is a big problem. Unwary travelers have died because they believed seemingly sensible advice without checking their facts. Snow is pretty, and it stacks up fast in a storm. However, looks aren’t everything.

While snow is undoubtedly made of water, it’s mostly air. That means you aren’t eating as much solid water as you think. Resultantly, most of what you’re ingesting is frozen air. You would need to eat, and heat about ten quarts of snow to extract a single quart of water.

Using the inside of your body to heat your water would be a lousy plan anyhow. The trouble is, in addition to potential contaminants and freezing, you’re only going to dehydrate yourself worse. The energy it takes your mouth to defrost ten quarts of snow isn’t worth the minimal refreshment. You’ll use up that water just making it.

Winter Water Preparedness

Whether or not you used to believe you could ‘just eat snow’ if you got thirsty, water prep in winter is one of those vital and often overlooked subjects for newbie preppers. Sadly, when temperatures plummet, people forget about ‘summer problems’ like water storage and dehydration.

When I suggest you should inventory and safety checks your supplies monthly, it’s no joke. That may seem like a lot if you’re just getting started. However, it could save your life, and it will almost certainly save you money.

Water in the Car

Storing water in your car is an excellent plan. Unfortunately, as we all know, when temps drop, those plastic bottles and jugs can burst as they freeze. I suggest you either remove the containers or take some of the water out, freeze them yourself and recap them. Yes, you should leave the caps off while you freeze water.

Frozen water won’t do you much good until it melts, but there will be a lot more of it than there is inside snow. Hence, it still does you some good to keep your frozen water bottles in the car in winter.

The next thing you need is a way to warm the water back up. There are plenty of articles on this site for starting a fire. Whether you use waterproof matches or a magnifying glass and some tinder, you should always carry a firestarter in your EDC.

Alternatively, you can opt for portable heat packs if you prefer. The chemicals don’t get as hot, so your water or snow melts slower, but it will melt.  However, don’t make the mistake of assuming you can get power from your car in an emergency. Always carry a pot for boiling and a way to make fire.

Purifying Your Water

Now that you have water from the snow, you need to clean it. If you started a fire, you can sit around and boil it in a pinch. That will kill most things. However. Carrying a portable water purifier is a much better choice. Boiling doesn’t remove the same contagions.

Run your water through a large water filter like the MSR MiniWorks EX. The pump handle is easy to use, and so is the replaceable carbon and ceramic filter. Better still, when you keep one of these in your car, you can also grab it when you go hiking. If you have to leave your car to walk for assistance, or because there’s no other option, you’ll still have water. Get an EX from Amazon by clicking here. 

High-quality water filters will remove protozoa and other problems that a basic boil can’t handle. It’s not worth risking your health or life on some dirty snow. Always make sure you have clean water. Without it, your other preps are useless.

Final Thoughts

Please do not eat frozen snow in a cold, emergency survival situation. It’s not even a good idea to catch snowflakes on your tongue for fun when there’s no danger. Always filter your water sources.

Freezing internally is just as bad as poisoning yourself. However, you need to be aware of all the dangers. Even with a heat source to avoid dropping your core temperature, melting and drinking snow water straight from the cup isn’t a smart plan.

When it’s freezing outside, the chill can distract us from common sense. Don’t make the situation worse by eating snow.

The Bowie Knife is a staple of every western outlaw fantasy for a good reason. Modern bowies are similar to those of legend. Unfortunately, history is convoluted. The clipped point and cross guard make the style one with which most people are familiar. You’re probably thinking of adding one to your EDC or other survival gear. I highly recommend it. However, I also suggest learning how to use it well because a bowie is a sizeable and iconic knife. You shouldn’t blatantly advertise skills you don’t have.

Are bowie knives good for survival? Bowie knives are great for survival. The original bowie got its name from famed knife fighter James Bowie. Fortunately, that clipped point is more than just visually appealing. Moreover, there’s no doubt that these hefty blades can cut into and out of sticky situations.

What Makes a Bowie Knife

Although bowie knives are great for survival, so are many other knives. What makes this type of knife so helpful is tied to its history. Bowie knives are meant to be fighting knives, and their unique history adds to the function.

Being iconic is a two-sided coin. First, many people know instantly what they’re seeing. Second, anyone who knows the story behind bowies may assume you already know everything about them. Regardless of whether you face an enthusiast or enemy, this knife makes a statement.

I recommend picking up a high-quality bowie like the Bobcat Knives Custom Damascus Bowie. The full tang steel is sturdy and elegant. A custom knife is always better than mass-produced McJunk when survival is on the line. Moreover, the solid, one-piece walnut handle is more rugged than multi-piece handles. To check the reviews on Amazon, click right here. 

Characteristics

Like all knife styles, the bowie has it’s defining characteristics. For one thing, they’re large knives. There’s no such thing as a three or six-inch bowie. Typically they are ten to twelve inches long, or more. Hence, you can’t hide your fighting knife easily.

Next, Bowies are knives with sheaths. You’re meant to carry a knife like this openly on your hip. The era they were invented was less refined than modern society. It was common for people to carry weapons openly. Moreover, you we’re a more prominent target if you went unarmed.

Next, a clipped tip is part of the package. A broader tip on a blade is useful for some things. However, the narrow blade tip is helpful in a fight. Wickedly sharp and slender, it’s meant to do harm with ease. When followed by the rest of the long thick blade, there’s no question about how bowies are used.

The long, heavy blade on this style isn’t for show. A sharp edge and serious weight make the bowie knife right for slicing. Resultantly, a single swipe will cut flesh and hyde. Yet, you still need practice and technique to do the job well.

Crossguards help protect the user’s fingers. Additionally, they’re useful for trapping another fighters blade. All bowies have this feature. A knife without it isn’t a true bowie. Although many knives look similar, a bowie has all these characteristics.

Myth & History

Sadly, the incredible story behind these knives may not be entirely accurate. Still, it’s worth knowing because a well-informed enemy will likely know their Bowies. This blade gets its name from the well-known knife fighter James Bowie who died at the Battle of the Alamo in Texas.

While the truth is that the style might have preceded him, it is James and his big knife that turned the bowie into what it is today. Regrettably, the documentation wasn’t fantastic, and his relatives disagreed after his death on precisely what happened.

What’s sure is that, true or not, James was famous for being a Sandbar fighter. He had a reputation as a successful knife fighter. Moreover, James wore a large knife in this style prominently on his hip. Additionally, he won at least one knife fight, but that might have been the extent of it.

Use What You Have

Even though we may never know the truth about James Bowie, you can learn two valuable lessons from him. First, carry a big knife that you know how to use. Hopefully, you’ll never be in a knife fight. However, once society crumbles, nothing is preventing it from happening.

Secondly, sometimes the truth doesn’t matter. In modern civil society, honor, and honesty often make a huge difference. Yet, in a world-ending scenario, or the old west, where your reputation can save your life, things are different.

If allowing people to spread the rumor that you have more skill or at least more success under your belt will help, then let them talk. Anything that makes a potential attacker hesitate is a benefit to you. Moreover, a solid reputation can prevent an attack.

It’s also noteworthy that, too good a reputation can bring out the up-and-comers. It’s best to have the actual skill behind the look. Hence, it’s a calculated risk to take more credit than you deserve.

Knife Fighting for Survival

Using a bowie for survival is all about cutting flesh and leather. Carrying a knife to cut rope is fine. However, you don’t need a bowie for that. These knives are meant for fighters. Furthermore, they’re incredibly useful for skinning animals, because they’re designed to cut through flesh.

How do you choose the right knife fighting technique? Well, the answer isn’t as cut and dried as you might hope. Although there are many styles, and proponents all claim theirs is ‘the best,’ in reality, what works best for you isn’t always what works for another person.

Here are my top three styles to consider when learning to fight with your bowie:

1. Pencak Silat- This form is an amalgamation of various styles from the Malay Archipelago of Southeast Asia. This style comes from a need to defend against animals and humans alike.
2. Kali Eskrima (Arnis)- A fighting style that teaches you to use your knife while also teaching you to use an empty hand is perfect for survival. This Filipino martial art transitions smoothly from armed to unarmed combat, so you’ll never be without a weapon.
3. Tantojutsu- A Japanese martial art style used by samurai is entirely relevant for modern knife fighting applications. Choose this to learn outstanding footwork, and knife strikes that focus on the sharp point of your bowie.

Fight if You Must

Your best choice in any battle is to get away. It’s never worth your life to show off your skills. For this reason, I suggest avoiding a knife fight. However, there may come a time when you cannot walk or run from confrontation.

For this reason, what matters most is practice, not the specific style you choose. Drill with your bowie daily. Take a class or three on knife fighting styles. Choose moves for blocking and slashing that feel right in your hand from every angle.

The key to being a proficient, successful fighter is practice. If you don’t drill with your knife, then you won’t have the muscle memory you need when the time comes. Working on footwork, body position, slashes, stabs, and blocking are all essential to surviving a knife fight.

Choosing the right bowie makes all the difference. The Timber Rattler Western Outlaw is a classic, no-nonsense example of everything a bowie should be. The nearly foot-long blade will help you reach any attacker. It’s easy to see James Bowie carrying a knife exactly like this on his hip. You can find a Timber Rattler for your EDC by clicking here. 

Does Size Matter

Does the size of your survival bowie knife matter? In humans, size can be a disadvantage. Too small, and you have to work harder to accomplish some tasks. Meanwhile, large people have much higher fuel needs; they don’t fit in small spaces and have difficulty with super-close fighting.

Alternately, there are advantages to being smaller or larger than average. A bowie is more significant than most knives. Yet they range in size by a few inches. To decide what works best for you, it depends on how you’ll use it, and what you can handle best.

If you’re average or less in size, then start with a bowie that’s closer to ten inches. A smaller, less weighty knife will usually be more comfortable for you to handle. Taller people or those with more training and practice may want a twelve-inch or longer option with more weight. Realistically, proper handling is everything. Hence, size matters because you need a good fit.

When you’re seeking a large bowie, I strongly suggest that you consider the Rambo Bowie Machete from Snake Eye Tactical. This sixteen point five-inch blade is one of the larger bowies you’ll find. Whether you have long arms or want a knife that’s made to do big jobs, the Rambo can cut to the chase for you. To check prices and availability on Amazon, click here. 

Where Will You Use Your Bowie

It’s best to pick a knife that you can use everywhere, and a bowie is ideal for multiuse. The sharpness and weight of this style blade is excellent for a fight, but that’s not all. You can skin animals, and cut through tough hyde. Additionally, you can get through brush or thick rope with a heavy bowie blade.

A well-made bowie can cut through a slender tree, or help you dig into the ground. Although you may not think of your knife as an alternate for shovels and saws, you should. You need to prepare for any situation, including when you don’t have specialty tools for a job. Improvisation is one of the best survival skills you can have. Undoubtedly, carrying the right knife will help.

Any knife that’s too specialized isn’t as useful for survival. However, the bowie is meant for everyday use. Or at least it was in the 19th century when people expected to carry weapons openly. Don’t ever buy a knife because of looks or specialty for survival. Instead, choose a multiuse tool or a general-purpose blade.

Knife Care

You can use a bowie knife for survival, but only as long as you take care of it. A chipped, rusty blade won’t work the way you expect. Plus, a too weathered blade that’s poorly cared for will break. There’s more to knife care than cleaning a dirty blade off. Here’s what you need to know to keep your bowie in good condition for a lifetime.

• Clean- You may think that wiping grime and blood off is all you need, but that’s not true. A dirty blade needs hand washing. Use a mild detergent and rinse thoroughly.
• Dry- One of the most important things to do for your knife is to keep it dry. I like to pack knives and essential papers in with spare silica gel packets. (That’s the “Do Not Eat” stuff you find in shoe boxes and other packages)
• Oil- Storing a knife for survival isn’t tricky. Oiling the blade to seal out water will help prevent rust and problems with your blade.
• Sharpening- Learning to sharpen your knife is vital. However, I suggest picking up some cheap, disposable blades for practice until you get good. After that, a sharpening stone and a decent leather strop are all you need.

Wooden Handles & Carbon Steel

Some parts of your bowie knife need extra attention. For example, carbon steel is excellent for blade making. However, this type of metal is uniquely susceptible to acids. Even cutting a lemon can damage the blade if you don’t clean it thoroughly and immediately. Realistically, that’s a good habit regardless.

Wooden handles are a whole care-issue by themselves. You always need to know what your blade is made from. Standard wooden handles need a drop, or two of oil rubbed into them with a clean, dry cloth regularly. Too much will cause your hand to slip. A couple of drops is usually enough.

Handles made from wood don’t always need oiling. Painted and polished handles don’t generally need oil, and it can damage the paint in some cases. Furthermore, a stabilized wood handle is sturdy, and it doesn’t need oil. In fact, it won’t absorb the oil in the first place, leaving your blade slick and hard to handle.

A Word on Sheaths

Leather sheaths are standard fare for knives, especially bowies. However, there are two things to keep in mind when choosing a leather sheath. Firstly, they need oiling. If you allow your leather to dry out severely, it will crack and flake.

The second consideration for leather sheaths is whether you should use one at all. The advantages of good leather are many. It’s easy to maintain, and won’t crack when adequately oiled. Furthermore, the soft leather won’t wear on your blade’s point or edge.

The downside to leather sheaths is that they absorb moisture. If you live somewhere especially damp, like the southeast USA, you may want to get a plastic sheath instead.

Final Thoughts

Despite its complicated history, a sturdy bowie knife will see you through tough survival situations. A quality blade is worth searching for. Luckily, assuming you have the skill and strength to wield it, this is a knife created for dangerous situation survival.

Keep in mind that, as concealed weapons go, a bowie is a poor choice. The size and style are both instantly recognizable. Instead, carry this knife openly as a deterrent when the SHTF.

Fortunately, good bowies are easy to keep sharp. Make sure you take care of your knife, and it will take care of you.