Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute

Month: December 2025

12/16/25 Stories of Survival: The Shackleton Expedition

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In the chronicles of human endurance, few tales match the raw courage and tenacity of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton between 1914 and 1917. Though the mission failed in its original objective, it became one of the most astonishing survival stories ever recorded — a saga of leadership, loyalty, and the unbreakable human spirit.
 
The Grand Vision
At the turn of the 20th century, Antarctica stood as one of the last untouched frontiers. Shackleton, a veteran of polar exploration, envisioned a daring feat: the first land crossing of the continent, from the Weddell Sea to the Ross Sea, via the South Pole.
He assembled a crew of 28 men and secured a robust ship aptly named Endurance. In August 1914, as Europe plunged into war, Shackleton and his team sailed south, chasing a dream that would soon be swallowed by ice.
 
Trapped in Ice
By January 1915, Endurance reached the Weddell Sea — only to be ensnared by thick pack ice. Immobilized, the crew waited for a thaw that never came. Instead, the ice tightened its grip.
In October, the hull began to splinter under pressure. Shackleton ordered the crew to abandon ship. By November, Endurance was gone, crushed and sunk beneath the ice. The men were stranded on drifting floes, hundreds of miles from help.
 
Survival on the Ice
For months, the crew camped on the ice, surviving on meager rations and hunting seals and penguins. Eventually, they made a desperate escape in lifeboats to Elephant Island — a barren, wind-lashed outcrop with no inhabitants and no hope of rescue.
They had land beneath their feet, but isolation still gripped them. No one knew they were there.
 
The Daring Rescue
In one of the most audacious rescue missions in maritime history, Shackleton and five men set out in a 20-foot lifeboat, the James Caird, to seek help. Their target: South Georgia Island, more than 800 miles away across the treacherous Southern Ocean.
After 16 days of battling towering waves and freezing winds, they reached land — but on the wrong side of the island. Shackleton, with two others, then trekked across uncharted mountains and glaciers to reach a whaling station.
It took four attempts to break through the ice and return to Elephant Island. But in August 1916, Shackleton succeeded. Every crew member was rescued. Not a single life was lost.
 
Lessons in Leadership
Shackleton’s expedition is now revered not for its scientific discoveries, but for its unparalleled demonstration of leadership under pressure. He kept morale intact, made agonizing decisions, and never lost sight of his men’s survival.
His legacy is a blueprint for:
Crisis management
Team cohesion
Adaptability
Empathy and resilience
Legacy
The story of Endurance continues to captivate and inspire. In 2022, more than a century after it vanished beneath the ice, the wreck was discovered in astonishing condition, resting 3,000 meters deep in the Weddell Sea — a silent monument to the expedition’s enduring spirit.
 
The Takeaway
Shackleton’s journey reminds us that success isn’t always about reaching the goal. Sometimes, it’s about how you respond when everything falls apart. Leadership, attitude, and unity can turn disaster into legend.
 
For more stories of survival, visit survivalschoolmichigan.com

12/11/25 Why Americans Should Be Concerned About Rising Silver Prices and a Declining Dollar

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When silver leaps from $30.68 in December 2024 to $62.92 in December 2025, it’s more than a headline—it’s a signal. A doubling of silver’s price in just over a year reflects deep economic currents that every American should pay attention to. This isn’t about collectors or investors alone; it’s about the purchasing power of your paycheck, the stability of your savings, and your ability to prepare for the future.
 
What Does Rising Silver Really Mean?
Silver’s surge is often a symptom of something bigger: the weakening of the U.S. dollar. Historically, when confidence in paper currency erodes, people flock to hard assets like silver and gold. Why? Because metals hold intrinsic value, while fiat currency depends on trust in government and monetary policy. When that trust falters—due to inflation, debt, or economic uncertainty—the dollar buys less, and prices for everything from groceries to housing climb.
 
The Dollar’s Century-Long Decline
To put this in perspective, $1 in 1900 is worth about $0.03 today. That’s a 97% loss in purchasing power over 125 years. Inflation isn’t new, but the pace matters. In recent years, stimulus spending, rising debt, and global instability have accelerated the dollar’s decline. If silver’s price doubling in a year feels dramatic, it’s because it is—a flashing warning light that the dollar’s erosion is speeding up (see the attached chart).
 
Why This Matters for Preparedness
Preparedness isn’t just about stockpiling food or having a generator—it’s about financial resilience. If the dollar continues to weaken, everyday essentials will cost more, and savings held in cash will lose value. Here’s why you should care:
 
Inflation Hits Essentials First: Food, fuel, and utilities rise fastest when currency weakens.
 
Supply Chain Shocks Amplify Costs: Economic instability often leads to shortages, making inflation worse.
 
Hard Assets Provide Stability: Silver, gold, and other tangible assets historically preserve wealth during currency crises.
 
Practical Steps to Protect Yourself
Diversify Your Holdings
Don’t rely solely on cash savings. Consider allocating a portion of your resources to precious metals, durable goods, and other inflation-resistant assets.
 
Stock Up on Essentials
Buy non-perishable food, water filtration systems, and basic supplies now—before prices climb further.
 
Reduce Debt
High-interest debt becomes harder to manage when inflation drives up living costs. Pay down what you can.
 
Invest in Skills and Tools
Preparedness isn’t just physical—it’s practical. Skills like survival, bushcraft, gardening, and basic medical care become invaluable in uncertain times.
 
The Bottom Line
Silver’s meteoric rise isn’t just about market speculation—it’s a mirror reflecting the dollar’s fragility. For Americans focused on preparedness, this is the moment to act. History shows that currency declines rarely reverse quickly, and those who prepare early weather the storm best. In a world where paper money buys less every year, hard assets and practical readiness aren’t luxuries—they’re lifelines.
 
To help prepare for the inevitable future, checkout survivalschoolmichigan.com

12/9/25 When GPS Fails: Lessons from the Wilds of Northern Ontario

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King’s Highway 11 is more than just a road—it’s a lifeline through Ontario’s vast and untamed north. Stretching over 1,700 kilometers from just north of Toronto to the Ontario–Minnesota border near Rainy River, this legendary route cuts through some of Canada’s most remote and scenic wilderness. Portions of it even form part of the Trans-Canada Highway, making it a vital artery for adventurers, anglers, and explorers alike.
For those seeking the thrill of walleye fishing, Highway 11 offers access to countless lodges and camps—some drive-in, many fly-in only. It’s a gateway to the kind of rugged beauty that demands respect, preparation, and a healthy dose of humility.
 
The Day My GPS Went Rogue
On a trip to a drive-in walleye camp near Jellicoe, Ontario, I found myself behind the wheel, navigating the northern expanse with a group of friends. Everything was going smoothly—until it wasn’t.
As we approached King’s Highway 11, my GPS suddenly instructed me to turn east. But instinct—and experience—told me I needed to head west. Confused, I pulled over. One of my buddies urged me to “just trust the GPS.” But I knew better.
Fortunately, I had come prepared. Before the trip, I’d purchased a detailed map of Ontario and packed a compass. With those tools, I confirmed the GPS was wrong. I made the call to go west. My friend, skeptical, said, “If you’re wrong, you’re paying for all that gas.” I agreed—but added, “If I’m right, you’re cooking all week.”
We arrived safely. He cooked all week.
 
Why GPS Can Fail in Northern Ontario
The malfunction wasn’t random. Northern Ontario presents a unique set of challenges for GPS systems:
1. Remote and Rugged Terrain
• Dense forests and mountainous regions can block or reflect signals.
• Sparse infrastructure means fewer cell towers or Wi-Fi boosters to support GPS accuracy.
2. Satellite Visibility Issues
• GPS needs signals from at least four satellites. In high latitudes, satellite angles can be lower, reducing signal strength.
3. Atmospheric Interference
• Ionospheric disturbances and the Aurora Borealis can distort signals.
• Severe weather—snow, ice, cloud cover—can also degrade performance.
4. Device Limitations
• Older or basic GPS units may struggle in remote areas.
• Devices lacking support for GLONASS, Galileo, or BeiDou may be less reliable.
5. Electromagnetic Interference
• Mining operations, power lines, or even solar flares can disrupt GPS signals.
6. Software or Map Data Issues
• Outdated firmware or maps can lead to navigation errors.
• Remote regions may have limited or inaccurate mapping data.
 
How to Stay Found When GPS Fails
Here’s what saved me—and what can save you:
 
Carry a Paper Map, Compass, and Ranger Beads.
This was my ace in the hole. Road maps are great for driving, while topographic maps are ideal for wilderness travel. Bring both a highway map and a topo map, and pair them with a reliable compass. To determine distance, use ranger beads.
 
Learn Basic Orienteering Skills.
Knowing how to read a map, use a compass, and track distance with ranger beads can be life-saving. These skills make you independent from electronics.
 
Use Offline GPS Apps.
Apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, Maps.me, and Avenza Maps allow you to download maps for offline use. Always download your route before heading out.
 
Bring Extra Power.
Cold weather drains batteries fast. Pack a power bank or solar charger, and keep your devices insulated.
 
Use Satellite Communicators.
Devices like Garmin inReach, SPOT, or Zoleo offer GPS tracking and emergency SOS—even without cell service. Some even allow two-way messaging.
 
Plan and Memorize Your Route.
At the very least, study your route ahead of time. Note key landmarks. Leave a trip plan with someone you trust, including your route and expected return time.
 
Avoid Over-Reliance on Technology.
GPS is a tool—not a guarantee. Use it, but always have a backup (maps, compass, ranger beads). If you feel unsure, stop and reassess. Don’t keep moving in the wrong direction.
Ready to Learn Orienteering?
 
If you want to gain the confidence to navigate without relying on technology, take a hands-on course at survivalschoolmichigan.com. Learn how to use a map, compass, and ranger beads—and never get turned around again.
Safe travels—I’ll see you in the wild.

12/8/25 The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Bushcraft Knife This Christmas

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In outdoor survival, few tools are as essential—or as versatile—as a dependable knife. Whether you’re trekking deep into the backcountry, preparing for emergencies, or refining your bushcraft skills at Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute, a survival knife is more than just a cutting edge. It’s your all-in-one solution for splitting wood, carving traps, preparing meals, protecting yourself, and so much more. When conditions turn unforgiving, your knife becomes more than gear—it becomes your lifeline.
 
What Makes a Knife Ideal for Bushcraft?
For bushcraft, the ideal knife is a fixed-blade, full-tang design with a comfortable, secure grip and durable steel. While folding knives and multitools have their place, bushcraft demands strength and reliability. Tasks like carving, batoning, and shelter-building require a knife that can take abuse and keep performing.
 
Key features to look for:
• Full tang construction for strength and stability
• Carbon steel (like 1095 or 1075) for easy sharpening and fire-starting
• Stainless steel for better corrosion resistance
• Scandi grind for clean wood carving and feather sticks
• Ergonomic handles made from micarta, rubber, or wood to reduce fatigue
• Blade length of 4–6 inches for versatility
• 90° spine for striking a ferro rod or processing tinder
 
Top Bushcraft Knife Picks by Budget
Budget-Friendly Workhorses
• Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty
Made from Sandvik carbon steel with a partial tang, this knife is perfect for wood carving and camp chores. It’s a solid choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing too much performance.
• Condor Bushlore Camp Knife
A full tang 1075 high carbon steel blade ideal for shelter building and classic bushcraft tasks. Typically priced between $60 and $80, it’s a favorite among traditionalists.
 
Mid-Range Performers
• ESEE 6
Forged from 1095 carbon steel, this knife is built for heavy-duty batoning and chopping. Priced between $120 and $150, it’s a reliable tool for serious survivalists.
• Schrade SCHF36 Frontier
A stainless steel full tang blade that balances affordability with rugged versatility. Great for those who want solid performance without stretching the budget.
 
Premium Blades
• Benchmade Puukko 200
Featuring CPM-3V tool steel and a Scandinavian grind, this knife offers exceptional edge retention and durability in the $150–$200 range.
• Fallkniven F1
Trusted in all weather conditions, this knife uses VG10 laminated steel and full tang construction. Priced at $180–$200, it’s a favorite among professionals.
• LT Wright and White River Knives
Known for exceptional craftsmanship, these brands offer high-end tools for those willing to invest in premium quality.
 
Beast Knives
• Ka-Bar Becker BK7 and BK9
These heavy-duty knives are built for brute-force tasks like chopping. The BK9 borders on sword territory and can fatigue your hand during finer work. These two knives are both beasts in the field.
 
Best Overall: Mora Bushcraft Black
The Mora Bushcraft Black is widely regarded as the best overall bushcraft knife for good reason—for a good price, it delivers exceptional performance without compromising on quality. Crafted in Sweden, it features a razor-sharp carbon steel blade with a robust Scandi grind, making it ideal for carving, feathering, and fire-starting. Its ergonomic rubberized handle offers a secure, comfortable grip even in wet conditions, while the included hard plastic sheath ensures safe and convenient carry. Despite its highly affordable price, the Mora Black punches far above its weight class, offering durability, edge retention, and versatility that rival knives costing three times as much. For beginners and seasoned outdoorsmen alike, it’s a reliable, no-nonsense tool built to thrive in the wild.
 
Pro Tip: Skip the Gerber
While Gerber knives may look the part, many fall short in real-world performance—often plagued by poor edge retention, weak tang construction, and subpar ergonomics. Worse yet, you’ll likely end up spending nearly twice what you would on a Mora Bushcraft Black, a knife that consistently outperforms in durability, sharpness, and reliability. The Mora Bushcraft Black is a proven bushcraft tool trusted by professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. If you’re serious about your gear, put the Gerber down and pick up a knife that actually delivers.
 
Where to Buy
Christmas is coming! I offer the Mora Bushcraft Black at a great price—visit the Sky North Outfitters tab at survivalschoolmichigan.com to grab yours.

12/5/25 Alone in the Wilderness: How I Turned Filthy Pond Water Into a Lifesaving Drink

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Before I began teaching at Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute, I immersed myself in various survival schools to refine my outdoor abilities. These experiences laid the foundation for countless solo excursions into the wilderness, where I put my skills to the test. Even now, I dedicate time each day to studying and expanding my knowledge—constantly adding new tools to my ever-growing toolkit. One of the most vital skills I’ve developed is the ability to make water safe to drink.
 
In this article, I’ll walk you through the essential steps I’ve learned and practiced for making water potable, along with several techniques that can be adapted to different environments and resources.
 
Filtration vs. Purification: Know the Difference
Many people use the terms filtration and purification interchangeably, but they are distinct processes—both crucial in rendering water safe for consumption. Filtration removes physical debris and some pathogens, while purification targets the invisible threats: bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
 
Step 1: Filtration – The First Line of Defense
Imagine you come across a discarded 2-liter bottle in the wild. This can become your first tool. Use it to collect water from a natural source—river, stream, lake, or pond. Always assess your surroundings. Avoid collecting water downstream from potential contaminants like animal carcasses or areas with chemical runoff.
To filter the water, stretch a cotton t-shirt, bandanna, or even a piece of denim over the mouth of a metal container—such as a pot or cup. Pour the collected water through this makeshift filter. This step removes sediment, insects, and larger particulates. While it may look cleaner, it’s still not safe to drink—yet.
 
Step 2: Purification – Eliminating the Invisible
Now, place your filtered water over a fire and bring it to a rolling boil for at least one full minute (or three minutes at higher elevations). This is the purification stage, where heat destroys harmful microorganisms. At my camp, we often suspend an empty energy drink can over the fire using a tripod made from saplings—an effective and resourceful method for boiling water.
 
Bonus: Turn Purification into a Medicinal Opportunity
Since you’re already boiling water, why not enhance it? Add wild ingredients to create a medicinal infusion. Staghorn Sumac berries, for example, offer a tangy flavor and immune-boosting properties. White Pine needles are rich in vitamin C and make a refreshing, citrusy tea. This not only hydrates but also nourishes.
 
Additional Techniques for Making Water Potable
While boiling is the most accessible and reliable method, here are a few other techniques worth knowing:
• Solar Disinfection (SODIS): Fill a clear plastic bottle with filtered water and leave it in direct sunlight for 6–8 hours. UV rays can neutralize many pathogens.
• Chemical Treatment: Use iodine tablets or chlorine dioxide drops. These are lightweight and effective, though they may alter the taste.
• Charcoal Filtration: Layer sand, charcoal, and gravel in a container to create a more advanced filter. This can help remove some chemical contaminants and improve taste.
• Portable Filters: Commercial options like LifeStraw or Sawyer filters are excellent for backpackers and survivalists. They combine filtration and purification in one compact tool.
• Distillation: In extreme situations, distillation can remove salts and heavy metals. This involves capturing steam from boiling water and condensing it into a clean container.
 
Final Thoughts
Making water potable is one of the most essential survival skills. Whether you’re deep in the backcountry or preparing for emergencies at home, understanding the difference between filtration and purification—and knowing how to apply both—can mean the difference between health and illness.
 
For survival gear, preparedness supplies, and more content go to survivalschoolmichigan.com

12/4/25 Sweet Fern: Nature’s Forgotten Remedy

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In the dry woodlands, open fields, and roadsides of North America—especially near pine forests—grows a plant as mysterious as it is medicinal: Sweet Fern (Comptonia peregrina). Despite its name, this aromatic shrub is not a true fern. Its feathery leaves and resinous scent have long captivated Indigenous healers and modern herbalists alike. With a rich history of traditional use and a growing body of scientific interest, Sweet Fern is a powerful symbol of nature’s quiet healing force.
 
Poultice: For Wounds, Burns, and Muscle Pain
Sweet Fern leaves have traditionally been crushed and applied directly to the skin as a poultice. This method was used to treat:
• Wounds and cuts
• Burns and insect bites
• Muscle pain and inflammation
The poultice draws on the plant’s natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to reduce swelling, prevent infection, and promote healing.
 
Infusion: A Remedy for Internal Ailments
When brewed into an infusion, Sweet Fern becomes a versatile internal remedy. Indigenous tribes and herbalists have used it to treat:
• Respiratory ailments (colds, coughs, bronchitis)
• Fevers and headaches
• Digestive issues (diarrhea, stomach upset)
• Stress and anxiety
To prepare: steep 1 teaspoon of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water, and drink 1–2 cups per day. This tea can also be used as a wash for poison ivy.
 
Medicinal Properties: A Natural Powerhouse
Sweet Fern is packed with beneficial compounds that give it a wide range of healing properties:
• Anti-inflammatory – eases arthritis, rheumatism, and muscle pain
• Astringent – helps stop bleeding and tighten tissues
• Antiseptic – prevents infection in cuts and skin injuries
• Antioxidant – supports overall health and cellular repair
These properties make it a valuable ally in both traditional and modern herbal medicine.
 
Salve: Skin and Joint Relief
Sweet Fern leaves can also be infused into oils or blended into salves for topical use. These preparations are ideal for:
• Treating cuts, burns, and skin irritations
• Soothing muscle and joint aches
• Supporting wound healing and reducing inflammation
Salves offer a convenient way to harness the plant’s healing power for everyday skin and pain issues.
 
Aromatic Uses: Calm the Mind, Repel Insects
Beyond its medicinal uses, Sweet Fern’s aromatic leaves offer additional benefits:
• Inhalation of the scent or essential oils can help relieve stress and anxiety
• The natural fragrance acts as a gentle insect repellent, making it useful during outdoor activities
Its scent is earthy, grounding, and subtly sweet—perfect for calming both body and mind.
 
Final Thoughts
With its deep roots in Indigenous healing traditions and a growing reputation among modern herbalists, Sweet Fern is more than just a wild shrub—it’s a botanical treasure. Whether used as a poultice, tea, salve, or aromatic aid, this plant offers a gentle yet powerful reminder of the healing potential found in nature’s overlooked corners.
To learn more, check out survivalschoolmichigan.com

12/4/25 How to Build a Fire in Wet Weather: A Survivalist’s Guide

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Looking for a real outdoor challenge? One that tests your patience, skill, and grit? Try building a fire in the rain.
In wet weather, fire-building becomes one of the toughest survival tasks. Rain, sleet, snow, and high humidity make it nearly impossible to find dry materials. Even if you do, moisture in the air can smother your flame before it starts. But with the right techniques and preparation, you can build and maintain a fire—even in the worst conditions.
 
Here’s how to master this essential survival skill:
 
1. Understand the Challenge
Wet tinder, kindling, and fuel resist ignition and burn poorly—if at all. The soaked ground drains heat, and wind or rain can snuff out your flame before it catches. To succeed, you need to outsmart the elements with smart techniques and solid preparation.
 
2. Tinder is Everything
Tinder is your lifeline in wet conditions. Always think ahead—collect and dry tinder as you go and always be planning for future fires. Forage as you go, and keep marginal tinder sources in your pocket to let body heat dry it. If you didn’t prepare for future fires, look for birch bark (rich in natural oils) or fatwood (found at the base of pine branches where it connects to the tree). No luck? Split sticks by batoning to reach the dry core and carve feathersticks and shavings.
 
3. Build a Dry Platform
Never build a fire directly on wet ground. Use dry bark, or split wood you batoned to create a dry platform. Once you have built a dry platform, you will need to protect your fire. You can:
• Build a small lean-to shelter or covering over your fire
• Use a tarp, poncho, or plastic sheet to put over yourself and the flame
• Dig a shallow pit to block wind and concentrate heat
 
4. Choose the Right Wood
Avoid wood lying on the ground—it’s likely soaked. Instead, look for dead branches still attached to trees or caught in branches above. For larger fuel, baton logs to access the dry interior and remove wet bark. Start small and build up.
Pro tip: In snowy or wet forests, pine trees are your best friend. Look for dry twigs near the base.
 
5. Use the Right Fire-Lay
Structure matters. Try:
• Teepee fire: Fast ignition and airflow
• Log cabin: Stable and long-burning
• Upside-down fire: Large logs on the bottom, tinder on top—burns downward and shields the flame from moisture
 
6. Use Reliable Fire-Starters
Don’t rely on luck. Pack:
• Waterproof matches
• Windproof lighters
• Ferro rods
• Commercial fire starters like WetFire or InstaFire
DIY tip: Smear Vaseline on cotton balls or on pine bark shavings (I use red pine bark) for a long-lasting, waterproof ignition source.
 
7. Practice Before It Counts
Don’t wait for an emergency. Practice in your backyard or on camping trips. The more “dirt time” you get, the more confident you’ll be when it matters most.
 
8. Build a Wet-Weather Fire Kit
Pack smart. Include:
• Waterproof matches
• Ferro rod
• Cotton balls with petroleum jelly
• Ziplock bag of dry tinder
• Small hatchet or knife
• Emergency fire starters
This kit could be the difference between warmth and hypothermia.
 
Final Thoughts
Building a fire in wet weather is hard—but not impossible. With the right mindset, materials, and techniques, you can stay warm, cook food, protect yourself and boost morale even when everything around you is soaked. Preparation and practice are your best allies.
 
For survival gear, preparedness supplies, and more survival content, check out survivalschoolmichigan.com

12/3/25 The Ultimate Survival Guide to Winter Blackouts: Stay Alive When Winter Turns Against You!

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When the power goes out in the dead of winter, staying warm and safe becomes a top priority. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you survive—and even stay relatively comfortable—during a winter blackout.
 
1. Create a Warm Core Zone
• Isolate to One Small Room: Choose the smallest room in your home with the fewest windows. This will be your “core survival zone.”
• Cover Doorways and Windows:
• Hang blankets or heavy curtains over windows to reduce heat loss.
• Use towels or blankets to block drafts under doors.
• Drape blankets or tarps over doorways to trap heat inside the room.
• Set Up a Tent Indoors: Pitch a tent inside your core room. It traps body heat and creates a microclimate that’s significantly warmer than the room itself.
 
2. Layer Up for Warmth
• Wear Multiple Layers: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, then add insulating layers like fleece or wool, and finish with a windproof outer layer.
• Wool is King:
• Wool retains heat even when damp.
• Use wool socks, sweaters, hats, and blankets if available.
• Use Quilts, Blankets, and Sleeping Bags:
• Pile on multiple layers.
• Sleep body-to-body for shared warmth.
• Crawl into sleeping bags inside the tent for maximum insulation.
 
3. Safe Heat and Light Sources
• 4-Hour Emergency Candles: These provide light and a small amount of heat. Place them in metal pots to reflect and concentrate warmth.
• Crisco Candle in a Pot:
• Insert a wick into a can of Crisco and light it.
• Place it in a metal pot to contain heat and reduce fire risk.
• Coffee Can Heater:
• Fill a metal coffee can with toilet paper soaked in isopropyl alcohol. For safety, place this can in a larger metal pot.
• Light carefully and use with extreme caution.
• Flashlights and Headlamps: Essential for safe movement and tasks after dark.
• Hot Water Bottles: Fill with boiled water (if possible) and place in sleeping bags or under blankets. Once cooled, the water in your hot water bottles can be safely used for drinking.
• Now, very carefully, you can use either the Crisco candle or the coffee can heater to warm the inside of your tent in an emergency situation. Always place the heat source inside a larger metal pot or pan to help contain heat and reduce the risk of fire or burns. This method should only be used as a last resort when no safer heating options are available.
• Safety warning: Never use open flames or fuel-burning devices (such as camp stoves, alcohol heaters, or improvised heaters) in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation. These can produce carbon monoxide, which is odorless, deadly, and accumulates quickly indoors. Fire hazards are also a serious risk.
• Proceed at your own risk, and only if you fully understand the dangers. In a true emergency, similar survival tactics might be used in the wilderness—but extreme caution is essential.
 
4. Cooking and Food
• Camp Stove or Portable Butane Stove:
• Use outside or in a well-ventilated area only.
• Great for boiling water or heating food.
• Tripod Cooking Setup: If you have a tripod or grill grate, you can cook over a contained flame.
• Dehydrated or Freeze-Dried Meals: Just add hot water.
• High-Calorie Snacks: Stock up on nuts, peanut butter, granola bars, hard candy, and chocolate for energy and warmth.
 
5. Water and Hydration
• Melt Snow for Water:
• Always boil melted snow before drinking to kill bacteria.
• Don’t eat snow directly—it lowers your core body temperature.
• Keep Water from Freezing:
• Store water in insulated containers.
• Keep bottles inside your sleeping area or tent.
 
6. Creative Insulation Hacks
• Garbage Bag Insulation:
• Fill large trash bags with shredded newspaper or clothing to create makeshift insulation.
• Use them as cushions, mattress pads, or even makeshift sleeping bags.
• Extra Insulation Ideas:
• Line walls or floors with cardboard, rugs, or foam mats to reduce heat loss through surfaces.
 
7. Preventing Frozen Pipes
• Open Cabinet Doors: Let warm air circulate around plumbing under sinks.
• Drip Faucets: Letting faucets drip slightly can prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
 
8. Communication and Information
• Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: Stay informed about weather updates and emergency broadcasts.
• Charge Devices: Use power banks or solar chargers to keep phones and radios functional.
 
9. Hygiene and Sanitation
• Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer: Useful when water is limited.
• Emergency Toilet Setup: Line a bucket with a trash bag and use absorbent material (like kitty litter or sawdust) between uses.
 
10. Mental Health and Morale
• Stay Occupied: Bring out books, board games, or cards to pass the time and reduce stress.
• Stick to a Routine: Even in an emergency, having a basic routine helps maintain a sense of normalcy.
 
Final Tips
• Stay Dry: Wet clothing = rapid heat loss.
• Check on Neighbors: Especially the elderly or those with disabilities.
• Conserve Energy: Rest often, avoid sweating, and eat regularly to maintain body heat.
• Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Especially if using candles or improvised heaters.
• Have a Fire Escape Plan: Know how to exit safely if something catches fire.

12/3/25 The End Is Near: 10 Skills That Will Make You a Hero in the Apocalypse

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1. Knot-Tying
Can you tie an Evenk Hitch or a Taut-Line Hitch to secure a ridgeline for shelter? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Knots save lives—literally.
• Improper knots can lead to collapsed shelters or lost gear.
• Mastering knots means mastering control over your environment.
 
2. Shelter Building
Do you know how to build a debris hut, tarp shelter, lean-to, super shelter, wigwam, or tepee? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Exposure is a top killer in survival situations.
• A good shelter regulates temperature and protects from the elements.
• Shelter is your first line of defense against nature.
 
3. Fire-Making
Can you start a fire with a ferro rod, bowdrill, hand drill, fire plow, flint and steel, or solar ignition? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Fire means warmth, safety, clean water, and cooked food.
• Lighters fail. Matches get wet. Primitive fire skills don’t.
• Fire boosts morale and keeps predators away.
 
4. Water Purification
Do you know the difference between filtration and purification? Can you make water safe to drink in the wild? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Dehydration kills faster than hunger.
• Contaminated water can disable you in hours.
• Clean water is survival gold.
 
5. Patching, Sewing, Darning, Repairing
Can you fix torn clothing, repair a tent, or darn socks in the field? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Gear failure in the wild is a serious threat.
• Small repairs prevent big problems.
• Self-reliance means fixing what breaks—on the spot.
 
6. Fishing and Hunting
Do you know how to catch or hunt your next meal? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Nature provides, but only if you know how to take.
• Protein is essential for long-term survival.
• These skills turn wilderness into a pantry.
 
7. Trapping and Snaring
Can you build a figure-4 deadfall, spring pole snare, or squirrel pole? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Traps work while you rest.
• Passive food gathering increases survival odds.
• Knowing how to trap is knowing how to eat.
 
8. Dressing Game
Can you field dress a squirrel, rabbit, pheasant, turkey, or deer? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• Harvesting is only half the job.
• Waste nothing—use everything.
• Clean, efficient dressing prevents spoilage and disease.
 
9. Land Navigation
Can you use a map and compass? Do you know your pace count? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• GPS fails. Batteries die.
• Knowing where you are means knowing how to get out.
• Navigation is freedom.
 
10. Foraging and Plant Knowledge
Do you know which plants are edible or medicinal? If not, you should learn.
Why it matters:
• The forest is a pharmacy and a grocery store—if you know what to look for.
• Foraging extends your food supply.
• Medicinal plants can save lives when help is far away.
Learn these skills before you need them.
Train with experts. Build confidence. Become unshakable.
Sign up for survival training under classes on my Homepage.
“I’ll see you in the wild!”
 
Contact us if you have additional questions about a class! [email protected]
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