With such a wide range of prepper food available nowadays, your first order should be customizable to you and your family. To begin your prepper food journey, stock up on food that is versatile, nutritious, delicious, and not too foreign to your family.

Produce
What are your go-to fruits and veggies that you buy most at the grocery store? Since you know they won’t go to waste, purchase frozen and/or freeze-dried produce items, using recipes that incorporate them. Best of all, the cleaning, chopping, and slicing are already done for you!

Recipes
What ingredients are in your favorite recipes? Stock up on those ingredients whenever possible and keep an open mind when it comes to using the same ingredients in other recipes. Versatility is a plus!

Staples
What are your most commonly used staples? We’re talking sugar, baking powder, flour, herbs, condiments, etc. Remember, these items are typically packaged for long-term storage, which is a huge bonus. Rice, pasta, grains, and beans are versatile on their own but are also handy for soups or casseroles. They are also packed with nutrition and fiber.

Snacks
Smaller containers might seem counter-intuitive, but they can be ideal for kids and adults who eat smaller meals. Snack-sized items are also perfect for emergency kits. Granola bars, oatmeal, and the like all fall under this category.

Water
All you have to do is add water to freeze-dried meals – so make sure you have some! Tap water might not work in emergencies, so ensure you have potable water available to re-hydrate the freeze-dried food you purchase.

To start your journey in the emergency-food-prepping world, check out Wolf Survival Gear today. We offer a variety of freeze-dried and prepared foods to stock your pantry in the years to come.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Positive mindsets can get us through anything – even survivalist circumstances. Without a positive outlook or optimistic attitude, troubleshooting, solution-finding, and a wide range of possibilities will dwindle in dire situations.

Optimism is a powerful tool and helps to focus on more logic rather than emotional responses to situations. Instead of saying, “I can’t,” try “I can” instead. Negativity is a driving force behind anxiety, nervousness, and failure. When stressful times surface, it’s better to think logically with adaptability in mind rather than emotionally with doom-and-gloom.

It is said that soldiers don’t prepare for war as they are about to deploy; rather, they prepare in times of peace, so when war strikes, they are ready. Easily translated to the modern-day civilian, it’s important to train ourselves and take action. In survivalist situations, you’ll be prepared to use equipment, practice skills, utilize techniques, identify missteps, and more.

Time, along with mental and physical energy, can be used more efficiently when we have a clear head. By practicing survivalist techniques repeatedly, an automatic response will kick in when the time comes to execute. Moreover, these skills will increase your confidence, thereby improving your belief in yourself and your ability to meet a challenge.

When you need to think most clearly, factors can get in the way, such as anxiety or nervousness. A common Navy SEAL technique called tactical breathing is a type of breathwork that helps to ease emotions. Breathe in through your nostrils, inhale to a count of four, and exhale to another count of four. Repeat a few times or until you feel less anxious.

Another helpful tool is to break larger issues or projects into smaller, organized groups or segments. This simple trick can easily minimize the overwhelming feeling. Procrastination is less likely, as following through and completing small tasks is more feasible. Little-by-little, step-by-step, get yourself moving in the right direction to grow momentum.

Remember your end goal: your reason for pursuing the specific task at hand. In a survival situation where things might be too overwhelming, and the odds are stacked against you, find your reason and will to survive. Ask yourself, “Why?” and focus on the answer. No matter what, remember the words, “I can.”

For the gear, food, and supplies you need to last, check out Wolf Survival Gear today.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

If you are ever in a dire situation and need to eat some berries for whatever reason, it’s a good idea to know the difference between those that are safe and those that are toxic. All kinds of wild berries are delicious, containing essential vitamins, minerals, and other compounds that promote tissue, organ, brain health, and mental function. There are many toxic berries in the wilderness too, so it’s essential to know which ones to avoid. Ill effects include diarrhea, nausea, organ failure, and even death. You should consider purchasing the Peterson Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants to add to your arsenal.

The Good Berries

1. Huckleberry: Native to North America, these resemble blueberries in shape and texture and can be red or black. At peak freshness, they are tart yet sweet and are a great addition to pies, pastries, desserts, and beverages. Other blueberry-look-alike berries are toxic, so be sure you are eating an actual huckleberry.
2. Mulberry: In both northern and southern hemispheres, mulberries are common. They resemble a large, misshapen raspberry and are a bit darker in color. Mulberries are sweet, juicy, and are delicious in pie fillings, preserves, and syrups. Herbal teas also often contain mulberries, as they are packed with vitamins and minerals.
3. Muscadine: In North America, these berries sprout from a grapevine species and are black, plum, brown, or bronze. One-fifth of your daily recommended intake of Vitamin B2 and fiber is fulfilled by one serving of muscadines. The flesh is akin to a plum, though they appear more similar to grapes. The flavor is vaguely musky.
4. Chokeberry: Only the eastern regions of North America see these berries, which might be black, red, or purple. Quite tart, they are sometimes sweet and are used in jams, jellies, and sherbet. They also boast a high antioxidant content.
5. Elderberry: These small, round, purple, or black berries grow in clusters on vines. They are often used in herbal medicine for immune system remedies. Extremely tart and tangy, people typically use these cooked, and they can cause nausea if ingested in high amounts.

The Bad Berries

1. Pokeweed: A common food source for birds and animals, this blackish-purple berry is toxic to people, pets, and livestock. The roots are particularly dangerous, and the higher or bigger the plant, the more toxins exist. Death can result from respiratory paralysis, and the berry juice can be absorbed in the skin.
2. Mistletoe: Actually a parasite that lives on other plants, this berry varies widely in toxicity according to species. Usually not fatal upon ingestion, one can expect to experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred vision, or even a heart attack. If a tea or any sort of concentration of these berries is made, death can result.
3. Holly: These bright red berries contain a host of toxins; a couple of handfuls can be fatal to children and infants. Humans, domesticated, and wild animals usually succumb to intestinal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea upon ingestion.
4. Yew: Every part of this tree is significantly poisonous, except for the berry’s fleshy part encompassing the seeds. Red in color, they look similar to an olive. Never try to salvage anything from these trees; rapidly absorbed upon ingestion, the toxins will make an adult extremely ill. Even after cooking or drying, the potent toxins in yew are present. Domesticated animals as well as those in the wild commonly succumb to yew.
5. Virginia Creeper: With attractive flowers and small, hard blackish-purple berries, these vines contain a high amount of oxalic acid that can inflict kidney damage on humans and other mammals. Birds are unaffected; however, it only takes a handful of berries to cause irreversible kidney damage in humans.

There’s no standard rule for determining whether the berry you’re holding in your hand is edible. Dangerous – and edible – berries are available in every color. The only way to determine which berries are edible is to be completely sure and identify them correctly. If you mistakenly eat a toxic berry, significant illness or even death can result.

For survival equipment, contact Wolf Survival Gear today. We supply the goods so you can be prepared.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

In crisis situations, internet and cellphone service might be unreliable. Your best bet is to communicate through radio. That’s right, the old “walkie-talkie” type radios will come in handy during times of duress. There are several different kinds of radio communication options, which we’ve outlined below.

Citizens Band Radio
Also known as CB radios, these were quite popular in the 1970s and ‘80s. Widely used for communication during that time, they are just as easy to use today. They are readily available, but have a limited range, with low attendance in terms of users. Around one to ten miles are covered through CB radio, and if your correspondents aren’t within your range, you won’t be able to communicate. Groups that plan to stick together are perfect candidates for CB radios.

Family Radio Service
FRS might be the most popular type of radio communication option and they are available in most sporting goods stores throughout the United States. Most brands like to boast a long range, but in general, ten miles is their maximum communication range, especially in forests, mountains, or cities with buildings. While hiking, backpacking, or on camping trips, these walkie-talkies are great options.

Multi-Use Radio Service
The range is one to three miles, but the Very High Frequency (VHF) band allows for external antennas to be added for an additional range. Channels are clear, but finding radios in the same band might be challenging. Finding other receivers on different bands is effortless, however. In environments where radio interference is cluttered, this radio is a great option for a clear channel.

General Mobile Radio Service
In the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band spectrum, the range starts at two miles, with a higher-wattage radio power which also translates to a greater range. Elevated, clear areas can reach up to five miles of coverage. They can also be connected to external antennas along with repeaters to gain more range. With these added, five to eight miles of coverage is easily achieved, with an additional six to ten with a mobile base. Roughly five to 25 miles of coverage can also be achieved with mobile bases added. The “catch” with this radio is that it requires a license to operate legally.

Amateur (ham) Radio
Emergency response services, search-and-rescue organizations, and other emergency groups utilize amateur radios. They are the most versatile, can cover the most distance, and are used to communicate not only voice, but also images, text, and data. A license is required to operate, and there are different levels of licenses available. The Technician Class is an entry-level permit easily obtained. Many preppers are also avid amateur radio users, and a somewhat large network of support is available to newbies.

Radio: check. Food, clothing, and other supplies: … ? Check out Wolf Survival Gear today and fill in the blanks to ensure you’re prepared for the next natural or man-made disaster.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Melting snow is a useful life hack for survival, especially during winter trips. If you find yourself in a situation without enough water, these tips will come in handy.

1. Boil snow: one of the most basic skillsets necessary for melting snow, all you need is a pot and a fire. You can either use a modern camping stove or a simple pot over a fire pit. Gradually add more snow, but be sure not to fill the pot to the brim to avoid overflow. Also, keep the lid on to maintain heat at all times.

• Passive melting: fill your water bottle with snow (but not too much) before a hike or climb. Gradually add small amounts of snow until you reach your desired volume. As you walk, your body heat combined with the movement will melt the snow.

• Solar heat: while the sun’s intense heat rays are usually drying, in the winter, they can assist you in melting some snow. If you happen to have a plastic bag (even a garbage bag will do), fill it with snow and place it in a well-lit area. Seal the plastic bag and watch it slowly melt before your eyes.

• Bonfire warmth: if you don’t have a kettle or pot, you can simply use an empty jar or cup to warm up snow. Place the jar or cup somewhat near the fire – not in close proximity to burn, yet not too far so it won’t heat up. Eventually, the snow will melt and fill the container.

• Hot water: if you happen to have a Thermos or Yeti filled with hot water, melting the snow shouldn’t be too difficult. To reduce the ice or snow into water, simply pour the hot water on top, catching it in a pot or container. Make sure not to leave it out, so it won’t freeze again. Try to keep the water warm if you don’t have an insulated mug.

For all of your prepping needs, check out the vast array of items at Wolf Survival Gear.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Corded telephones are rapidly losing popularity, especially as technology has improved in recent years, giving way to a more portable – and practical – way to communicate via cell/smartphones. Only 40 percent of Americans still have a landline. However, in emergencies, landlines are way more secure and safe.

Power Outages: Landlines are more reliable during power outages. Though smartphones work when the power is out, they are unlikely to have service if the cellphone towers lose power. During Hurricane Sandy, roughly one-fourth of all nearby cellphone towers lost service. Many towers don’t have battery backup, but these typically have no more than four to six hours’ worth of power before the service is restored. Landlines will often store power for a week or more.

GPS: Landlines give off more reliable GPS coordinates, as they are tied directly to your address. As soon as you call 911, the emergency dispatcher knows exactly where you are calling from. Cellphones give locations, but not specific addresses.

Security: Landlines are more secure compared to cellphones, and they better protect your privacy. Conversations through cordless or cellphones can be intercepted by using a basic baby monitor, or an eaves-dropping device. Corded phones help reduce the risk of identity fraud.

Batteries: Landlines do not require charging as cellphones do. Some smartphones last only 24 hours or so (much less with heavy use), so without a way to charge your phone, you won’t have access to outside contact.

Reliability: Landlines have been around for decades, and as such, are a tried-and-true form of communication. Unlike smartphones, which are known to regularly fail due to hardware, software, or other factors, landlines are relatively stable. Without a computer interface to worry about, the mechanics of landlines are much more reliable.

Stability: Landlines don’t rely on “service” or reception like cellphones do; people often worry about the call dropping or the classic “I can’t hear you” due to spotty reception. With landline calls, the audio is much more crisp, clear, and stable in general.

For more prepping information, check out our blog or browse our store for quality survival gear.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Survival movies can be gripping, heart-racing, suspenseful, and somewhat unrealistic. Nevertheless, Hollywood does offer a small window into survivalism and prepping. If even just for the fun of it, check out these movies and who knows, maybe you will get some tips or ideas for your own prepping needs.

127 Hours
Based on a true story, James Franco plays Aron Ralson, who goes out for a solo day hike in the Utah canyons. The premise focuses on his fight for survival after getting into an accident that traps him against a boulder.

Cast Away
This classic film from 2000 is well-loved and features Tom Hanks who plays Chuck Noland, a FedEx employee who is stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. Real-life survival skills are utilized to help him get through the harrowing incident.

Contagion
Eerily mirroring the events related to COVID-19 (disease spreads from a bat in China then spreads rapidly), it stars Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, and Steven Soderbergh. Food shortages, looting, government missteps, and worldwide circumstances we’re all-too-familiar with after 2020.

I Am Legend
Will Smith plays Robert Neville, who learns how to live in a post-apocalyptic world full of zombies with his trusty dog Sam by his side. New York is in pure disarray after a cure for cancer kills 90 percent of the population. Only one percent of humans survive, and the other nine percent turn into zombies.  

The Road
An ailing father played by Viggo Mortensen defends his son as they slowly travel to the sea while finding food, shelter, and avoiding the last remaining humans in a post-apocalyptic world.

After you binge these prepper and survivalist movies, check out the massive stock at Wolf Survival Gear to obtain all of the tools, gear, and supplies you’ll ever need in case disaster strikes.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Whether you are just starting or a seasoned prepper, sifting through all the information available can be overwhelming. There are thousands of websites online dedicated to the subject; knowing which source to trust might be confusing. Our guide will help steer you through the possibilities and solutions every prepper needs to know.

Planning
Prepping is different for everyone, as there are various unique factors, problems, and disasters to ready yourself for. These vary depending on geographical location, job security/financial standing, human-made vs. natural disasters, etc. To truly be prepared for anything, start by figuring out which threats are likely to affect you and how you will handle each one accordingly. Check out historical data from past disasters that have impacted your area, analyze crime rates, and take your personal threats into account, which might include economic problems, medical setbacks, and family members who might require extra care. A customized emergency preparedness plan is always a good idea; ensure it is drafted by you, not some generic person from a far-off land who isn’t familiar with your surroundings or situation. Create a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis to kick off your prepping journey.

Training
Prepping means nothing without proper training. Your ability to survive a natural disaster is based on two simple things: planning and training. Without real-world preparedness, you won’t survive a disaster of any kind. Sporadic preparedness drills should be as realistic as possible. Turn off your power supply, for example, to simulate an outage. Make sure your group has a thorough understanding of the plan and evacuation routes. Practice your communication plan without using a cell phone. These drills will help you test your plan in a mock scenario.

Confining
A well-stocked rural retreat is ideal for those who can swing it. During long-term disasters, these oasis areas are perfect for preppers. Living a self-sufficient lifestyle within a dwelling that doesn’t run on public utilities is the goal. The government is typically not involved in any way, which is what preppers generally refer to as “going off the grid.” There are many ways to power off-grid houses, such as propane, solar panels, and batteries. A growing challenge is locating rural land to build on. Many factors should be considered when searching for property, such as whether the soil is rich and fertile, nearby water and other natural resources, and local zoning laws.

Working
In the event that your emergency preparedness plan needs to take effect, how will you make money? Cut expenses, start a business, or use your land to generate income. Initially, it might be challenging to drum up some creative ideas, but once you do, you will be able to sustain your lifestyle.  

Prep entirely by browsing the vast selection at Wolf Survival Gear. We have the tools you need.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all of your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.