#i need to buy some backup emergency supplies honestly

[the-elder-polls]

totally sorry if this isn’t the right place to send this but I was wondering how you’ve been recovering from all the damage the hurricane caused?

tis fine to send it here!

there's still two houses in my neighborhood that are uninhabited due to being collapsed/destroyed by the storm (walls and roof were torn off and caved in on both) and the gas station nearest to me only recently (within the past month) managed to get its electricity fully repaired.

there are still a ton of downed trees that we kinda just shoved off to the sides of roads. you can still see evidence of the destruction everywhere (like the destroyed houses) but y'know.

overall we've recovered well. i've noticed we get much antsier about storms and the power now, because being without it for days was nightmarish, especially when it meant watching our phone batteries slowly die while we tried to get updates on the power situation. (we never got any updates btw. amazing communication skills from the power companies.)

i also have a newfound fear of buying much refrigerated food since i went grocery shopping days before the hurricane struck and then had to throw away hundreds of dollars worth of food. thankfully y'all were kind and donated and it meant i was able to buy food again when the stores were safe to get to.

[savvanners]

In Case of Emergency

So with the Corona Virus being a thing for a while now, it has come to my attention how few people actually learned about or know how to be prepared for these sort of disasters. So for this and the next few post, I think I’ll do a quick rundown of a few simple things you can do to prepare for emergency situations. I’ll try to go into detail on all of these in individual posts, but here is a general run down. Keep in mind, this is something you should have prepared BEFORE an emergency, and many of these can be built up over time. By having them already, you leave these items on shelves for those who do need them. DON’T PANIC BUY.

1. Food Storage-Make sure you have a supply of enough food that you could live off of for AT LEAST 2 weeks. This should include a reasonable supply of water (in water bottle packs or reusable storage, so long as its accessible) and make sure it is for things you would actually eat in an emergency. Very few of us would like to live off of canned goods and flour for weeks.

2. 72 hour kit- This is very simple and I honestly thing everyone should have one of these. Its just a bag you keep packed at an easily accessible place that has all you need to leave your home for 72 hours. This can include travel toiletries, a few changes in clothes, a bit of cash and change, and snacks, water bottle, a blanket, phone charger, whatever you will need. Keep a printed list of phone contacts and recent pictures of family and friends.

3. Necessities- Some of these may seem like a no brainier, but keep a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, some cash and change, and light sources with backup batteries in specific place(s) in your house. Make an emergency contact list with the numbers of police, poison control, and family and friends to contact in an emergency and stick it on your refrigerator where it can be easily seen. Label the same people as ICE (In Case of Emergency) in your phone.

4. Meeting Place- If you live with other people, whether it be roommates or kids, decide on a safe emergency meeting place within walking distance of your home. This could be a park, a family friend’s house that you trust, or even a gas station. So if you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable at your home and need to leave, people will know where to meet you.

I hope this is helpful to people. Feel free to add your own. Stay Safe!

[thelanguageoflovers]

A Study in Fate - Chapter 3

"Are you sure you're okay?" Buffy asked, following Lucy up to her bedroom and looking around. She’d only really agreed to come today because she’d wanted always wanted to see the inside of Emily Kippen’s house - it was just as overdone as she’d assumed it was. However, she found that she didn’t entirely mind hanging out with Lucy Kippen.

"Yeah, I'm okay." Lucy’s voice was dismissive as she started across the room to where she’d left her dance bag on her bed. Buffy’s eyebrows furrowed in disbelief. A decade of being best friends with Cyrus had trained her to notice when something was wrong in an instant.

Something was wrong.

"Really? Because-"

"Yes, really," Lucy huffed, whirling around to face Buffy. Fire raged through her eyes, an icy river through her veins, and thunder chorused through her voice. "I. Am. Fine. God, you don't even know me, let alone how okay I am?."

"Well I'm sorry for wanting to help," Buffy responded, sarcasm dripping from her voice like oil from a rag.

"Jesus, do you ever just fucking drop it?" Lucy snapped. "Clearly I don't want to talk about this!"

"Well, I do!" Buffy exclaimed, jaw tense.

"No! God, just- leave me the hell alone."

"Fine, I will," Buffy sneered, storming back down the stairs and out Lucy's front door. It felt as though the slam of the door shook the house on its very foundation as Lucy braced herself, her entire body tensing.

A deep breath.

In.

Out.

In.

Out.

Lucy did her best to steady her trembling hands as she picked up her dance bag. She slowly ran a hand over the black material, screwing her eyes closed to fight the panic rising inside her. Her chest rose and fell quickly, her lungs felt like they weren't taking in air anymore.

She stumbled backward, sitting down on the edge of her bed. Bracing her palms against the mattress, she struggled to inhale a deep breath as tears fought their way from her eyes. In for four. Hold for seven. Out for eight.

After a few moments, she was able to genuinely breathe, though slightly shakily. Wiping tears from her eyes, she stood up, steadfastly ignoring the way her legs trembled as she walked toward where she'd left her phone on her dresser.

TJ's contact lit her phone up, and she immediately accepted the call, pressing her phone to her ear.

"What happened?" TJ asked, his voice laced with concern.

"Panic attack," Lucy mumbled, voice trembling slightly. "I- I already screwed everything up. I mean, she deserved it, but I can't believe I've already ruined everything."

"Lucy, take a deep breath, okay?" TJ commanded carefully. "Tell me what happened."

"I- I haven't been taking my meds lately."

“Your antidepressants?” TJ asked - Lucy could hear the way his eyes widened.

“I- Yeah,” she admitted.

"Lucy-"

"No, I know. I'll get them refilled. I just- I've been slipping lately. And Buffy noticed, somehow. I tried to tell her I was fine, but she wouldn't buy it. I told her I didn't want to talk about it, but she kept pushing and I just-"

"Snapped?" TJ supplied. Lucy sat down, nodding into the phone. She knew he couldn't see her, but her barely breathed 'yeah' was well enough. "It's okay, Luce. You're allowed to get mad. She should have let it go."

"God, I wish I was at home." Lucy flopped backward onto her bed with a sigh, phone still pressed to her ear.

"I'll meet you at the dance studio in fifteen." Lucy could hear TJ's muffled voice telling Cyrus he had to go; she chuckled as she picked up her dance bag and glanced inside to make sure she had everything.

"See you soon, Teej."

Four pairs of pointe shoes, an emergency leotard, three ballet skirts, several pairs of backup tights, and a few types of TheraBands all fit into the main compartment and a few pockets. She mildly contemplated how it all fit, but decided it was better to leave it alone than to think too hard about the concept.

Water, toe tape, second skin squares, nail clippers, a needle and thread, toe spacers, band-aids, extra toe pads, hair ties, bobby pins, hair nets, a few sets of ribbons and elastic, and a foundation palette all occupied the pockets lining the inside and surrounding the outside.

Standing up, she pulled a pair of tights and a black leotard from her dresser, quickly changing into them. Lucy quickly pulled her hair back into a bun, flattening it with bobby pins and covering it in a net. Finally, she pulled a red dress on over her outfit, grabbing her tutu bag and scooped up the dance bag on her bed.

"Aunt Em, I'm going to the studio!" she called, jogging down the stairs.

"Alright, don't wreck my car please!" Emily called from the couch, giving her niece a small grin.

"Duly noted."

Lucy stepped into the studio number TJ had texted her, only to find him already warm and turning.

"Hey, Teej," she said, dropping her bags and street shoes by the wall and pulling off her dress.

"Hey!" TJ greeted, falling out of a turn upon seeing her.

"Sorry about stealing you away from Cyrus," Lucy said apologetically, pulling on a pale pink tutu and sitting to wrap her toes and put on her pointe shoes.

"I don't really think you did, actually," TJ said, watching Lucy pull a pair of pointe shoes out of her bag.

"What do you mean 'I didn't steal you away'?" TJ shrugged, sitting down to wrap a few of her toes in toe tape and band-aids and cover her blisters in second skin squares.

"He asked why I was leaving, so I told him what happened between you and Buffy- some of it. I told him she overstepped her bounds, and he immediately jumped to her defense. Long story short- I'm pretty sure the Kippen triplets are now in a rivalry with the Good Hair Crew."

"The what?!" Lucy asked, pulling on toe pads and putting a pointe shoe on each foot. TJ laughed as he moved to lace up one of the shoes, explaining that that was the name the trio of best friends had adopted.  "Jesus fuck."

"Like 7 hours in Shadyside and we're already in a trio v. trio battle," TJ said, rolling his eyes and helping Lucy up and toward the center of the floor.

"This got so out of hand so fast," Lucy groaned, letting TJ square her hips as she started to warm up.

"She probably thought you were hiding something," TJ shrugged, picking Lucy up in an all too effortless fish dive.

"No shit, Sherlock. I am hiding something!"

"You know, fair enough honestly," TJ snorted. He picked up his phone from the shelf next to the door, connecting to studio #12's Bluetooth. "What are we doing today?"

"I dunno yet... You choose." Lucy could nearly hear TJ's smirk as he pressed play, King of the Clouds flooding over the room through the speakers in the corner. "Has anyone ever told you you're insane?"

"Eh, you and Ambs never fail to remind me."

TJ circled behind Lucy, grabbing her by the waist and tossing her into the air. She landed gracefully on his shoulder, one leg crossed over the other, and didn't stop moving until the end of the song.

They took on new character archetypes as Emperor's New Clothes came on, immediately morphing into self-absorbed monarchs in a battle for power. The triplets had been able to improvise any routine together since they were 13, down to every turn and toss.

“Uh, Luce?” TJ said as the song faded out, gesturing to her pointe shoes. Lucy groaned as he paused the music, looking down to find her fears realized - she’d bled through her shoes. Again. Rolling her eyes, she tugged them off, rolling her tights up and abandoning several of the already bloodied bandages she’d put on and her red stained toe pads.

“Can you grab a new pair from my bag?” TJ hummed, tossing her a pair of pointe shoes and a handful of band-aids.

Kneeling in front of her, he helped her clean her wounds and bandage them. The process of band-aids, second skin squares, toe pads, tights, then lacing up her pointe shoe ribbons, was repeated, and then she was standing and testing out her balance on the new pair of shoes.

“Ready?” TJ asked, taking her hand as she carefully tested her penché. She shrugged, prancing a few times before landing in first position.

“As I’ll ever be.”

Despite the new set of shoes, Lucy falling out of an attitude turn halfway through their routine was not expected. TJ stopped what he was doing, following Lucy's gaze to where the entire Good Hair Crew stood, watching them dance.

"I feel unsafe," he whispered, lips barely moving.

"Where's Ambs?" she responded, still making eye contact with Buffy through the glass.

"I have no idea, but I'm just gonna pretend they're not there," TJ shrugged, tugging Lucy back into the center of the floor as another song started.

"You're alright." A voice cut through the song, prompting Lucy to roll her eyes and turn toward Buffy, who'd just stepped into the studio.

"We know. Actually, sorry, slip of the tongue. We're better than alright." She crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow at Buffy.

"I certainly hope you're not planning on trying out for the Grant dance team."

"And why, pray tell, might that be?"

"Because I'm captain," Buffy said with a smirk.

"Yeah, okay. I don't need your team," Lucy informed her, head cocked to one side. TJ watched as she puckered her lips, taking a silent step back.

"What, and we need you? I don't think so," Buffy snarled, stepping toward Lucy.

"I'd advise you to be very careful with your next words," Lucy said slowly, narrowing her eyes.

"Oh really? What are you gonna do? Hit me with a pointe shoe?" Buffy mocked. Lucy shook her head, eyes sparkling with mirth as she laughed coldly.

"No, I'm not."

"Then what?" Naturally, Lucy did the only thing she could think of.

Lucy Kippen slapped Buffy Driscoll.

[samsexualdeancurious]

Blind Love | Chapter 27

Pairing: Dean x Castiel

Words: 1,437

Story Summary: When Dean is blinded on a hunt, Cas loves him through it.

Chapter Summary: The boys come to a decision, make some life changes, and meet some new friends.

Betaed by @manawhaat

Masterlist

It’s been three weeks since the marathon and five weeks since Sam last went on a hunt.

Dean realizes that one morning when he and Lady come into the library and finds Sam on the phone with Claire, walking her through how to take down a djinn and advising her to call in backup. Dean leans against a pillar and listens to his brother with a smile.

“You sound like Bobby,” he says when Sam is finished with the conversation.

Sam laughs quietly, but Dean knows the words hit him. “Really?”

Dean nods and moves to ruffle Sam’s hair. “Yeah.”

“I’ve been thinking about him lately- about how he helped other hunters, without ever really going out himself. We have all his books still in that storage locker in Sioux Falls. We could add them to the bunker library and make this into a resource for hunters across the country...what do you think?”

“I really like that idea,” Dean says and he means it. He rounds the table and slides into a seat across from his brother. Lady tucks herself under his chair. She doesn’t need to follow him around the bunker, since he knows it so well now, but she does anyway. He doesn’t mind.“Wanna talk specifics?”

“Specifics?”

“Yeah. How would this work? We would probably need more phone lines, so how would we go about getting those set up? Stuff like that.”

“That’s a long list,” Sam says honestly.

“It is. We better get started.”

It turns out to be a really, really long list. They start with bringing all the books they were able to salvage from Bobby’s house to the library, where Sam organizes them onto the empty shelves he and Cas put together. Next is making sure the bunker can provide for a large number of people at the same time. They test out all the old washers and dryers in the laundry room, making sure they all work (somehow they all do, which Dean isn’t even going to try and explain). Sam checks all the plumbing in the bathrooms.

Once the amenities and such are up to par, they clean bedrooms. They decide to only do a hallway because they probably won’t need the entire bunker worth of rooms right away. Dean’s not even sure they would use them all if they had every hunter in America staying with them at the same time, so there’s no point in cleaning every single one right this minute.

The bunker has bedding already, thankfully. There’s a stack on top of every dresser that he gathers up and puts in the laundry. They’re going to have to come up with some kind of system for keeping bedding clean, as well as for paying for the laundry detergent. Perhaps each hunter that comes to stay can leave a small donation in order to fund the bunker? Stolen credit cards can only buy so much and Dean knows how messy hunters are from experience.

He also knows how much they can eat. He invests in some much larger pots and pans, as well as a large number of cheap dishes from Ikea of all places. Sam finds piles of folding chairs somewhere and stashes them in a closet between the kitchen and library, so an extra chair is never too far away. They already have a decent sized fridge, so storing enough food shouldn’t be a problem.

After two weeks of work, they decide the bunker is as ready as it’s going to get. Now they need rules. A system. There has to be a way to vet the hunters they allow in, both the kind of people they are and whether they’re even really people. There’s also the matter of keeping things stocked.

“We’ll just have to vet them the best we can using information from hunters we trust,” Sam decides. “It’s not like there’s a hunter social media or something we can dig through.”

“Yeah,” Dean agrees. The three of them are in the war room, Sam making lists and notes on their chalkboard. Lady has tucked herself under the table with her chin on Dean’s knee so he can scratch her ears.

“Now, what about supplies?” Cas pipes up. “It’s impractical to expect us to be able to provide what everyone needs at all times.”

“What if,” Dean says slowly, happy to present the idea he’s had brewing in the back of his mind for a week, “we have the hunters bring stuff? Say, they have to call when they get to town and while they’re there, we’ll give them suggestions of things we’re running low on? Then they just get what they can?”

“I like that,” Sam agrees. “We’ll have to stay on top of things, keeping track of food and toiletries, but I think that could work. What do you think, Cas?”

“I think that sounds like an excellent idea.”

Dean feels a small surge of pride. “Awesome.”

“How do we want to get the word out? Just have the girls help spread it?” Sam sits down across from Dean and taps his pen against the tabletop.

“That’s really the best method,” Dean replies, scratching Lady’s ears absentmindedly. “Word will spread slowly, which will give us time to get used to having more people around. If everyone found out at once, we would be overwhelmed.”

“Yeah, good point. I’ll call Jody.”

It’s a little while before the first hunters show up. They meet a guy named Elvis who’s a bit of a Sam fan- why Sam always gets stuck with the crazy fans, Dean doesn’t know- and his hunting partner, Bucky. A married couple named Cesar and Jesse stop by for a couple days, bearing fresh produce. Donna and Jody can only stay for one night, but Jody loads them up with enough toilet paper to last at least a month. Charlie pops in once. Eileen comes to visit and ends up staying- Dean was wondering when that would happen. He might be blind, but he’s not stupid. He knows how Sam looks at her, even if he can’t see it with his own eyes.

One pair of visitors Dean really likes are the Banes twins, a pair of sibling hunters raised by a white witch. Max is a flirt clearly crushing on Sam and Eileen, and Dean has a sense that the feelings are not entirely one-sided, but that’s not his problem. When both Eileen and Max emerge from Sam’s room one morning, it’s not Dean’s place to judge and as long as Sam’s happy, he doesn’t care what happens behind closed doors.

Dean was a little nervous about having so many people- particularly strangers- coming and going, but everyone is pretty respectful once they realize that being blind definitely doesn’t make Dean helpless or any less of a Winchester, and that Lady is not for petting when she’s wearing her vest, though some newer visitors still struggle with that last one.

There are a few hunters that come to stay and aren’t invited back, unfortunately. The ones who are overly violent- there’s a few that remind Dean of Gordon Walker- or the ones that don’t respect the sexualities of the bunker’s permanent residents- the first guy who makes a comment about Sam, Max, and Eileen gets Dean’s fist in his nose and leaves a few hours later. They keep the beer he brought.

Eventually, though, things get into a steady rhythm. The boys spend a lot of their days manning the phones- Sam in particular likes this job when it requires research. Even after all this time, he’s still a nerd. Dean’s happy to take over the phone if it means playing someone’s FBI supervisor or whatever it is they need to verify their story with the local law enforcement, but he also enjoys helping Sam figure out cases. They’re still hunting, in a way, but they’re doing more of the intellectual side of things, in true Men of Letters fashion.

Sam still likes to get out in the field on occasion- usually on cases further from the bunker, so he doesn’t make himself memorable to the locals- and Cas goes with him. Dean doesn’t mind. He keeps busy taking care of the bunker. With so many people coming and going, there’s always something to do. It’s given Dean a new purpose and he loves it. He genuinely loves it. If someone had suggested when he first lost his sight that this is what his life would be like, he would have thought they were crazy. Now, though, Dean’s not sure when he last felt this satisfied.

Like this fic? Commission one of your own!

Team Forever: @laughing-at-the-darkness @mrswhozeewhatsis @books-and-icecream

Team Destiel: @idelifrey @ilostmyshoe-79 @hexparker @smut-fluff-lemons-and-stuff @jwilly18 @ruined-by-destiel @keepingitrealcas @supernaturalfanfix @basic-joy @freedomcraziness

Team Blind Love: @jaebirdie @waywardasfudge @tina8009 @fangirl-writing-fiction @cacodaemonia @starcastlesinthesky @naruhearts

[spacegate]

Keetah’s guide on bug out / get home bags.

LIKE I PROMISED, here is a bug out bag I designed using Amazon wishlists. Get me one of these and I will be forever happy! HOWEVER, the main purpose is to show you guys what things you may need if you ever want to put together a bug out /get home bag!

A bug out / get home bag is a bag designed to keep you alive during some sort of disaster that can be easily grabbed and carried. A wildfire is approaching out house, civil unrest is in the street, you are somewhere else and you need to get home on foot, or travel somewhere on foot. You need to grab your things and get out!

KEEP IN MIND, THIS BAG IS DESIGNED FOR TEMPERATE FORESTS AND STEALTH. Please keep in mind the environment in which you live and plan accordingly! For example, if you live in the desert, you are going to want to carry extra water. If you live in a tropical rain-forest, you are going to want mosquito nets and rubber treated supplies. 

If you want to be found and rescued, choose colors like SHINY SILVER and ORANGE. Both are bright attention grabbers. If you want to remain unseen, choose colors like olive drab and dark brown. 

Now without further ado, check the cut below to read up!

THE BAG

When selecting a bag, there are many options to consider. Some bags have compartments that can store water. Some bags are waterproof. Others have less storage space but are very comfortable to wear. Some have straps to help distribute the load on your body. It’s important to research for yourself what bag you will want. You want to consider durability as it will probably get thrown around a lot. I also recommend a bag that has the MOLLE straps. These are straps on the bag where you can hang tools and other bags on. They make things easy to get to!

For example, here is a really good backpack, and extra MOLLE pouches to attach to the bag.

With the bag you can also get a tactical belt. Especially one that is MOLLE compatible. That way you have essential items right there and easy to grab while taking some weight off your back.

TOOLS

Tools are things you can use over and over and are essential to your survival. Will will need to chop, cut, hammer, tighten, loosen, or even break objects. Mankind has made tools for thousands of years, and thankfully you can buy some premade. These are things you should keep on hand and close to the outside of the bag so you can grab them quickly.

It’s recommended you have these.

A good knife: Preferable smooth blade. If you want stealth you can have the blade blackened. You will use a knife for a lot of things, but mostly processing game. 

A hatchet: Same with a knife. What I like about hatchets is that you can use the other side of the head as a hammer. You will mostly need this for wood and also to process game. You could also use a machete instead if you prefer that!

Shemagh: It’s a scarf/blanket/bandanna all in one! You can also get bandannas! You use these to cover your face from skeeters, protect your face from cold or the sun, filter water, a sling for an injured arm, and other uses. [MORE REASONS TO CARRY ONE]

Paracord: a MUST HAVE. [USES FOR PARACORD] Can be used for fires, hanging up things to dry, lashing shelter, and other things :D You can also get them as bracelets so you always have some handy!

A portable radio: You need to have a way to listen and hear when it’s safe to go home. Most are solar or hand cranked powered, and some has a usb port to charge your phone and other electronic devices.

Multi-tool: The kind with pliers and other do dads inside. Invaluable!

Entrenching tool: For digging holes. Also can be folded down into different uses! You can use these for digging holes to pit roast game as well.

Light sources: You can choose things such as LED Flashlights or a hands off headlamp. Make sure if you need batteries, to pack extra! I figure the headlamp would be best, as your hands are free to perform tasks in the dark.

Socks and Gloves: You need to protect your feet and hands! For socks you should have two pairs, and they should be made of wool and waterproof. For gloves, you should look into a pair that keeps your hands warm and will protect you from cuts and pokes. 

Med kit: You don’t need to take the whole pharmacy with you, but you do need some essentials and you are free to customize and put them in whatever container you like. What you should have is bandages, gauze, medical tape, gloves, tweezers, scissors, painkillers, itch/bug/burn relief,  tourniquets, tums. Basic things. [AN EXAMPLE OF A CUSTOM KIT] [BUDGET CUSTOM KIT]

Binoculars. Compact ones will work great! Lets you see long distances!

Field sharpener: You NEED to keep your tools sharp! [HOW TO USE THIS PARTICULAR SHARPENER] [SHARPENING YOUR KNIFE WITH A ROCK]

NAVIGATION

This is a section that honestly depends on where you live. I recommend for everyone, a local map or your state map. A good compass will also help you out. Beware of items made of steel with compasses built into them, they won’t give you accurate readings! Ranger beads and pace counters can also help you keep track on how far you have traveled.

.....I can’t really recommend brands or anything else, cause I actually can’t read maps :X But I’m working on fixing that! These days it’s hard to be lost lost in the woods, since urban sprawl. If you are lost and need to find civilization, sometimes following a river downstream will help. 

ON GUNS/WEAPONS.

You may notice that in my pack, I don’t have any weapons. No guns or crossbows or the like. Why? Guns and crossbows require a LOT of upkeep. Did you know that you have to clean a gun after each use because the gunpowder can corrode the inner barrel? Not many people do, and I can’t in good faith recommend a gun. Guns take skill and time to learn. You CANNOT just pick up a gun and expect to learn on the go. That’s how you end up with accidents with deadly consequences. If you personally want a gun, go for it! However, sign up for lessons and practice in a shooting range. You MUST practice and learn about your weapon BEFORE disaster strikes. Even crossbows need maintenance to keep the bows and strings in good condition. If either of these breaks, you’re out of luck unless you know how to repair them. And ammo is very finite. I always recommend blades because not only can they perform other functions, but they are easier to care for and don’t rely on ammunition. If you’d like a weapon, pack it, but be careful! Also, never underestimate something as simple and ancient like slings and slingshots! They can still pack a punch! Also consider MACE and TASERS. 

FIRE

Fire is important as it can not only keep you warm, but it can cook your food, boil water, and even signal for help if you need it. Remember the redundancy is key. You should have multiple ways to start a fire. You don't want to lose your firestarter without any backups! [ How to build a fire in wet weather! ] If you don’t want to be seen, build small fires and try to use cover to block the light, such as at the bottom of a hill or a cliff. If you want to be noticed, build big fires and during the day, throw in leaves to produce more smoke. Smoke also repels mosquitoes and other bug pests!

It’s recommended you have these.

A magnesium fire strike rod: [HOW TO USE]

A really good zippo or a couple bic lighters

Storm-proof matches: You can make your own by dipping match heads in wax, and then scraping it off before use. Make sure you have strikers! Be sure to keep them in a waterproof container!

Fatwood:  Fatwood is tinder you can buy that either comes in rods, chunks, or dust. It catches on fire super easy.  You can also buy powdered magnesium, which catches fire well too!

A mirror/magnifying glass, or even a pair of glasses: You can use these to start a fire. [ HOW TO USE ]

Pencil sharpener: Get a big one. Not only can it shave tinder down super fine, but it also has other uses like making spears! 

Candles. I recommend beeswax candles, because you can also use the wax to waterproof matches, strengthen thread for sewing, and can waterproof your shoes! 

FOOD

Food should be packed depending on the situation. You will need emergency food, but you should eat them as a last resort. You should first consume what you can hunt and forage for first. You would be surprised at all the things you can find to eat out in the wild! 

It’s recommended you have these.

Hard candies/boiled sweets: They provide a boost of sugar and carbs to give you a little energy. They give you something to suck on and prevent hunger from getting too bad. They are light and are easy to pack. Also a great moral boost!

Freeze Dried food: Preferable to canned food because of the weight. Dehydrated food weighs very little and it’s compact, so you can carry a lot. You just add hot or cold water and you have a meal. 

Other foods: Other foods that travel well are things like rice, fruit leathers, instant oatmeal, pouches of tuna/spam, and even those little potted meat meals you can get at the store. 

Drinks: Not needed, but provides a very important mental health boost. Things like powdered lemon-aide mix, instant hot chocolate, or electrolyte powder can give you a much needed sense of comfort in a scary situation.

Snare wires, rat traps and a fishing kit: Lets you catch sources of protein. You should eat these first so you can save your stored food. Rat traps let you catch squirrels or even big rats. You can buy emergency fishing kits with collapsible fishing rods. Snares let you cat squirrels and rabbits. All small game mostly. [HOW TO SET SNARES] [LEARN ABOUT FISHING] [ WARNING: GRAPHIC!!! Butchering: FISH | RABBIT | SQUIRREL] [MAKING A FISH SPEAR]

Books: Should be lightweight. I recommend getting books in identifying edible plants as well as basic bush cooking. You can pick up specific books in mushrooms and tubers too. MAKE SURE THE BOOK YOU GET HAS COLOR PICTURES!

Mess kit: You can buy all in one mess kits that can collapse down to reduce weight. You should at least have a bowl, cup, eating tool like a spork or so, and a way to boil water. Most mess kits are designed to go over coals or small stoves, NOT in direct flame. You can buy some very complete mess kits out there!

A stove: For cooking. I recommend an Esbit stove. They are lightweight and folds down. It takes fuel tabs and they burn hot! The stove is quiet and easy to carry. [COOKING ON AN ESBIT STOVE] Make sure to stock up on extra fuel tabs!

Spices: Salt is a must for human survival, but you can also pack pepper and other spices to jazz up wild food. You can also carry olive oil and the like! Be sure it’s in secure containers.

Vitamins: The pouch gummy ones are easier to carry. Try to get a multivitamin that has both Vitamin C, Calcium, magnesium, and iron. Your diet in the wild will be very random so you may not get all you need to function. After weeks, scurvy can be a real issue you may face. 

Why did I not mention MRES? Well because MRES are heavier than a few packets of rice or dehydrated food. Americn MRES are designed to make you constipated, and the last thing you need is to feel ill like that in the middle of the woods. 

WATER

YOU NEED WATER TO SURVIVE. The first thing you should look for when in the woods is a source of water. However, just because the water LOOKS clean, doesn’t mean it is! BE SURE TO BOIL/TREAT ALL WATER BEFORE YOU DRINK/COOK WITH IT. 

It’s recommended you have these.

A good metal canteen with a canteen cup. You can sometimes get these from army surplus stores. Be sure it’s a single wall canteen/water bottle, cause if it’s double walled it can explode if too close to a fire. You can pick up a lid to go with your cup so you can cook in it! You can even make bread in a canteen cup! 

Water purification tabs: Add a few of these to water to kill the bacteria and parasites. You can also get liquid iodine and it works the same way. 

Life straw: It’s a portable water filter that can literally save your life. For when you don’t have time to boil and treat water, you can just drink with the straw. LIFESTRAW DOES NOE FILTER VIRUSES.

SHELTER

You need shelter in order to survive. If you can carry it, you can have a small one person tent. You can have hammocks or even just tarp staked to the ground. Whatever it is, it must be waterproof. The shelter you select should reflect the area in where you live. If you live in cold areas, you need to beef up your shelters.

It’s recommended you have these.

A really good rain poncho. Something that can keep you dry. Some military grade ones can be turned into a tent!

A bivvy bag: What it is is a portable sleeping bag that’s really light and keeps you warm and dry. However condensation can build up from your body heat on the inside.

Small portable tent: You can get a kit like this or simply use a waterproof tarp and some rope to get the same affect. [HOW TO TURN A TARP INTO A TENT]

Optional, but you can also pack space blankets. Not only can they be used for heat, but you can also collect water, make shelters, sit on it to protect ur butt from wet ground, or signal for help.

You can also buy actual tents, but be sure to choose one that can be carried and can be set up in the dark!!!

Tent spikes: You can get lightweight plastic ones, but you can also use rocks to do the same thing, even small sticks!

MISC

Things that don’t fit in an easy category but you still should consider bringing along with you. This includes random things and cleaning supplies, which is important. Being clean not only prevents you from getting sick, but it also is a huge moral booster.

It’s recommended you have these.

Kleenex travel packs and Wet wipes: To keep your hands clean, clean a wound, and you can use the Kleenex as toilet paper.

A towel: You can buy some that are compacted so it’s easier to travel with! You can also use a towel other than for cleaning.

Nontoxic camp soap: Non scented so you don’t attract unwelcome wildlife nor leave your scent on your traps. Also won’t harm fish and animals if you wash in the local water.

Waterproof containers: To protect sensitive gear from the elements or a spill!

Duct tape: Can perform a wide amount of functions such as making spears and building shelters.

Handwarmers: Can protect your toes and your hands from cold. A little bit of heat can be the difference between life and death.

Random toiletries: Sure you can bring toothbrushes and lotion, but be sure it’s lightweight and unscented. 

Seeds: This depends on how bad the disaster is. If you are going to be stuck somewhere for weeks and weeks, you might have time to sow and harvest a garden. This you can consume before your stored food.

Bug spray: A MUST. Mosquitoes carry diseases and the last thing you want is to be sick in the middle of the woods!

Clothes. Extra underwear and light clothing if you have the space!

RECOMMENDED YOUTUBE CHANNELS

Townsends: A 18th century enthusiast that does a lot of campfire cooking tutorials as well as old school survival.

Ultimate Survival Tips: What it is says on the tin!

Primitive Technology: A guy in the Aussie bush making stone age tools and shelters. Turn on CC because he has commentary on his videos, but never says an actual word.

Sigma 3 Survival School: Has a little bit of everything!

Survival On Purpose: Tests a lot of gear so you can make informed buys!

Thank you all for reading and I hope this helps you all out!

[djindigoz]

Here, have a glimpse into my new novel

He's all alone. It's quiet, and the lights begin to flicker.

"Dammit! I told them to bring me a new bulb before they left!" He glanced up at the light, which suddenly gave up. Blackness enveloped him, broken only around the emergency light. The lab was too small to have more lights. It only had the two. One bulb had already been out in the ceiling light for a few weeks now. He just never had the time to change it. Sighing, he realized he had to make time, now. He stepped out of the room carefully, sliding off his gloves and tossing them into the trash bin by the door. "This is what I get for working late, huh?" He skidded to a stop, remembering it's more sanitary to leave the lab coat in the room. He stepped back inside, sliding free from it. The nameplate reading "Gabe Hostas, Forensics" flickered in the light and shadow as he hung it up. "Nobody else wanted to stay late. I had nothing to do, though. I volunteered. I took one for the team, man!" Gabe hustled over to that floor's supply closet, flicking on the light and digging through boxes, some labelled poorly, some lacking labels, until he found a new bulb. He grabbed two while he was at it, carrying both back to the lab. Of course, his hands were full with the large bulbs, and he couldn't also bring the ladder.

Once in the lab, he clambered on top of the side of the counter he wasn't using. He removed the panel and replaced the bulbs, then returned to work. Analyzing was what most of his job was. Tests, running things through the system. Sometimes, he got to go out into the field when a body was found, and arrived with the detectives. Usually his senior did, but lately the woman has been letting Gabe do it. She had just had a child, and seemed to prefer finally sitting all alone in the quiet and getting to work. Gabe wouldn't complain. It meant more time with an old friend of his. Scott Marshalls had been his roommate for three years. They both were crime-solvers, though Scott became a detective. He'd been his best man at Scott's wedding just last month. Needless to say, they are close, and have always kept in touch.

Gabe finally locked up the lab and headed home sometime around one in the morning. He figured that'd be a good place to call it quits, as he still had work tomorrow morning.

He didn't live anywhere extravagant. He never had. Gabe wasn't on good terms with his parents, and never really knew most of his family. They weren't there for him at all through school, so Gabe fronted the bill for everything. His apartment was good, but nothing great. It was horribly small, too. No room for a roommate, pet, or anything but Gabe, really. And even then, he tried not to be there often, as there wasn't much room. He mostly came by to sleep. Sometimes, he'd sit around and read on days off. Or he'd watch the news, maybe some cool online video tutorials about computers and technology. Tonight, he'd go straight to sleep, though.

Awoken from a dreamless slumber by his radio, as it sounded so much better than a blaring alarm, Gabe rolled out of bed. He let the music play as he headed into his bathroom to shower and clean up. Pale skin, dusty blonde hair, and hazel eyes faced him in the mirror. He could tell how tired he still was after a measly four hours of sleep. He fluffed up his hair. He kept it shorter than he liked, wanting to look professional at work. Gabe was three years younger than Scott. He had graduated high school early. He was one of the youngest people employeed in his building. His short stature and youthful appearance didn't help him earn any respect. Those who knew him and his work gave him proper credit, but new fresh meat never paid him any mind and often underestimated him.

Following getting dressed, he had time to make some coffee and a quick breakfast and lunch to bring to work. He locked up his room and headed out.

Gabe always walked to work, never having a car, though he had a license. It was money he didn't have, and the city was constantly controlled by traffic., anyway, so he avoided ever buying a car. Sometimes, Scott would pick him up, but that meant getting up even earlier, and Gabe knew he needed the extra minutes of sleep.

He walked in to be greeted by those he knew and those who knew of him, saying hello back to everyone he could. However, he was stopped by Scott and his own boss, Lilla. Poor woman looked like she didn't get anymore sleep than Gabe. Hell, maybe even less. She had said before that her daughter seemed to have colic and couldn't usually sleep through the night too well.

"Hm? What's up?" Gabe sipped at his coffee. Lack of sleep or no, he didn't have bags under his eyes like Lilla did. By comparison, he seemed like he regularly got ten hours. Ha. He didn't get that much rest unless it was a day off.

"Put your stuff away, Hostas. You're going out into the field first thing. New body got reported. Might be tied to the last." Lilla set her cup down, pulling her dark hair into a ponytail. Gabe nodded and looked at Scott.

"Ew, with you? Do I have to?" He smirked and Scott grinned, rolling his eyes.

"And you wonder why people undershoot your age. Hurry up. I won't wait long." Scott shook his head. Despite what he said, he walked with Gabe, giving him any info he had found out, making sure Gabe was caught up. Shutting his food in the fridge, he paused and removed his breakfast.

"I'm eating on the way." Gabe threw the bag and his thermos into his locker, slammed it, then followed Scott out.

"You and Rachel enjoying the whole newlywed lifestyle?" Gabe asked to make small talk once they were on their way.

"It honestly doesn't feel any different. We'd been dating for four years, and living together for two and a half. If it wasn't for the ring, I'd probably forget that we're married." Scott laughed and Gabe just smiled. Gabe wasn't into dating. He just never really cared to have a relationship. That didn't mean he wasn't happy for his friend. Scott was constantly proud of his wife, and so happy whenever he talked about her or she was brought up. And Scott didn't rub it in Gabe's face. He didn't ask Gabe if he was ever seeing anyone, and the blonde appreciated the brunette's understanding. Besides, he knew that Scott was considerably handsome. He had stubble, a tan, and blue eyes. That's what women liked, right? Maybe some men did, too. Scott was also super sweet and good with kids. He and Lilla got along well, as he'd always try to babysit for her when she needed it. Gabe never really knew what to do with children. They were all always so different, and you couldn't treat them all the same. It was confusing and troublesome, so he avoided Lilla when he knew she needed a sitter, instead throwing Scott's name into the conversation, suggesting she check with him.

They pulled up to the scene. There wasn't much activity there, yet. Just the usual caution tape and officers keeping the public away. The crowd was small. It must not have even hit the news or anything, yet. Gabe sighed in relief. He knew it was more trouble when more people tried to get a look. Or when the news crews came by. They likely would soon, so they quickly got to work.

It didn't take Gabe long to confirm that the body was poisoned the same way the last was. However, while the past victims were found in their homes, this guy was outside in an alleyway. Scott let Gabe look over the body, along with the coroner. The older man instead checked around the scene, ensuring there wasn't any obvious evidence. Gabe got up to report to Scott anything he and the coroner noticed.

"Poison, likely the exact same kind as last time. I took a sample from his blood so I can make sure when we get back. The symptoms are identical. No external injuries, didn't seem to put up a fight. Everything except the location is the same as before, as far as we can tell." Gabe flipped his notebook closed, slipping it and the blood sample into his bag. He glanced around, tilting his head. He noted that a window across the street was open. Something gleamed in the sunlight. But, wasn't that building abandoned last year? Did someone buy it? The gleam kept his attention, and he suddenly realized what it might be. His eyes widened, and he shouted for everyone to get down. He shoved Scott, as the man reacted by drawing his gun and looking for whatever Gabe saw instead of listening to his command.

The shooter must've known he was seen, because the shot hit Gabe directly. An attempt to eliminate him first. Gabe felt it, felt himself stumble and fall. Everything went out of focus, but there was a lot of noise. He could still think straight. He covered the wound with a hand, applying pressure. The officers were shouting at the people to move. Scott shouted for an officer to watch Gabe and call an ambulance. He heard him call for backup. Knowing his friend well, Gabe assumed Scott's eyes never left the building. He'd be waiting and watching, knowing he can't go off on his own.

Gabe returned to himself when the pain pulsed through. It took a moment, but now it hurt. Bad. It was in his chest. Did it hit anything vital? Swaying, Gabe tried to look for the exact location of the wound. Blood covered his shirt. He quickly put the hand back, pushing as hard as he could, willing it to stop bleeding. The paramedics could worry about the location, whenever they get here.

Sirens? Were they here, or was the back-up? Both? Gabe moved his eyes to check, and everything spun and darkened. Breathing hurt. Sitting hurt. It felt like his brain couldn't breathe. Then everything was swallowed up.

Noise. He could still hear. Scott was yelling at Gabe. Why? What did he do wrong? It was all just chance. Gabe happened to see what was happening. If it had been Scott, wouldn't he have done the same? Sounds became muffled. Open your eyes, he thought. Make sure everyone is okay. Make sure you're okay. Then the sound went, too.

�

[jetfics]

The Perils of A Misplaced Towel

Characters: Sam Winchester, Dean Winchester, Original Female Character (Quinn)

Warnings: Some blood, nothing gory

Word Count: 1,835

Summary: Quinn wants to shower after being bedridden for a week and it leads to some complications with her stitches. Dean nearly has a heart attack. It’s a fun time. 

(first person)

Sam and Dean had left two days ago to help Bobby with a Rougarou case in Sioux Falls and they had left me behind. They did have good reason to, this time. The last case we three had been on together was a Wendigo hunt. We don’t usually hear of those too much but when we did it was a nice change of pace from all the demons and apocalypse stuff that our job had become. But it had turned out to be a really crappy weekend. 

I got kidnaped by the creature, Sam and Dean got lost in the woods and I had to kill the thing without backup. Which, naturally, didn’t go off without a hitch. At all. In fact, it would be surprising if it could have gone worse, aside from me dying. I managed to get myself untied from where it was keeping me, but being the short girl that I am, I was pretty far off the ground, which meant that when I landed I heard a horrendous crack and then I blacked out from the pain. When I woke up, I was still on the ground thankfully, but my ankle was broken and I had to get up and find my weapons, then wait for the monster, who decided to try and mince me before eating me, which ended badly for the both of us. He died and I got a nasty looking gash all the way from my knee to my hip that ended up needing about 100 or more stitches from Sam. And after all of that, I still had to drag myself out of that stupid cave and start screaming for those numb-nuts until they found me. Or at least, that’s what they say. I was unconscious by the time they got there. I somehow managed to score some sick bruises and cuts and a sprained wrist as well. That’s why I was left behind and honestly, I was completely okay with it. I was still in a lot of pain and the extra strength Tylenol wasn’t doing much for me after about a week of sleep and no movement.

I desperately needed a shower though, and I was too embarrassed to ask one of the guys to help me out, thus my last one had been before the hunt. Which was absolutely disgusting and I had reached my limit on how long I could keep my hair hidden under a bandana until I had to wash it. So, I slid myself gingerly off of my now very uncomfortable bed and limped my way down the hall into the huge bathroom. With care, I pulled my tank top off, over the Walmart bought wrist brace, and tossed it into the corner to be washed later. Thankfully I was only wearing my underwear (something I rarely got to do with Sam, Dean and Zeke) lurking around in the bunker) so they weren’t a huge hassle to get off. Limping some more, I turned on the warm water, careful not to make it too hot, and stepped into the cubicle that was quickly steaming up. The water felt like absolute bliss as it wet my extremely dirty hair and ran down my still sore back. I closed my eyes, enjoying the moment before I had to actually work to get myself clean. The only shampoo in the shower was Dean’s, because I had forgotten to buy some of my own the last time I had gone on a supply run. None-the-less, I used my good hand and dumped some on to my head and then started scrubbing. No one ever tells you how hard it is to wash long hair without both hands…. And on top of that, the soap was starting to run down my leg and get into my bandages, consequently burning when it came into contact with my very recent wound. Great. I quickly finished rinsing my hair, washing my body and then shut the water off, loathe to leave the warmth of the shower. Shivering as I stepped out into the always cold air (Sam and his A/C…), I snatched a towel from one of the hooks and wrapped it around myself, hobble-running back to my room where I immediately pulled on a hoodie, underwear and comfy shorts. Then I began to unwrap my leg, wanting to redress the newly stitched wound. Wet bandages are awful. It was then that I wished my brother wasn’t in school. He was good at dressing wounds. With a sigh, I resigned myself to my ”job”. On my way to get new gauze and wrap, I clumsily tripped over my towel and immediately felt a blinding pain. I had ripped them. I had ripped my stitches. Or some of them… Looking down, the first thing I noticed was the blood. There wasn’t supposed to be that much from just a ripped stitch or two… Thinking quickly, I sat on the floor and put the offending towel over the wound, trying to slow the bleeding. Then I slid over on my butt to the desk where I kept a spare med kit. I pulled out the suture needle, I could fix it myself. No need to call the guys and scare them. Just then, the towel slipped off my leg, leaving a trail of white hot pain and blood. With what was probably a very manly grunt, I dropped the needle and as I tried to find it with my vision going in and out, I got dizzy and then passed out. My last thought was that I was a dead woman. I was going to bleed out on the floor and when the boys found my body, they’d know I died because i was too stubborn to call for help. 

(third person) 

“Quinn! Hey! We brought back some of that nasty pistachio ice cream you like!” Dean called as he and Sam descended the stairs into the “war room”. Sam frowned when he didn’t hear her shout from another room. Dean raised an eyebrow.

“Maybe she’s on the can?” he shrugged.

“Probably showering. Singing the Grease soundtrack, be my guest,” Sam laughed.

“Say it ain’t so, Sammy!” Dean cried dramatically in a terrible southern accent and his brother laughed back. He went to put the ice cream in the freezer and Dean shouldered his duffel, trudging back to his room. Then he made quick work of walking to the bathroom for a nice, hot, well deserved shower. On the way, he noticed that the door was open to the bathroom and there was steam still on the mirror inside. So she had been showering. He grinned to himself and stepped in preparing to scare the living shit out of her, only to find a pile of clothes in the corner. That was unusual. She usually was very conscientious about leaving any mess lying around. With a small frown and a niggling feeling in his gut, he walked back out of the bathroom and to her door. He knocked a few times with no answer and then decided that if she was naked she would have said something. With a firm push, the door swung inwards and revealed a pristinely kept room and a very unconscious Quinn on the floor.

“SAMMY!” Dean yelled as he rushed to the girl on the floor, checking for a pulse. Sam came flying in, gun raised only a few seconds later. When he saw Quinn, he put the gun away and quickly found his way next to his brother.

“How did she do this?!”

“Dude, now is not the time. We don’t know how long she’s been out!”

“Yes, okay! I’ll be right back!” He ran to the bathroom, wet a towel and hurried back. Dean picked Quinn up and laid her as gently as he could on her bed. He tapped her cheek a few times, attempting to wake her up. She was pale as hell. WIth a gentle shove, Sam moved Dean out of the way and got to work cleaning her leg and resuturing her ripped stitches. It took a tense half an hour, but when he finished, Dean was quick to grab a bag of the emergency blood they all had “donated” and kept in the fridge, an IV stand and a needle. He got the IV setup and then found a vein and stuck her with the needle. She was going to be okay. They had gotten there in time. But even still, he couldn’t help but speculate on what would have happened if they hadn't…

When she came to, Dean was sitting next to her on the bed, elbows propped up on his knees and his chin resting on his hands, staring at the wall.

“Dean… what are you doing?” her voice was still hoarse from sleep.

“Quinn! You’re up, good.”

“Uh, yeah, what happened?”

“I think you might be able to do a better job of that than me. Me n’ Sammy found you bleeding out on your floor.”

She didn’t respond for a while then with a soft “Oh shit,” she rubbed her face with her bloodstained hands.

“I was trying to get fresh gauze and wrap… I didn’t want to have wet bandages wrapped around my thigh for hours… I tripped over a damn towel and I guess they ripped when I tried to catch myself. I think I was trying to resuture them, but that’s where I blacked out…I could have done it if it weren’t for the blood…”

“Quinn, you’re lucky that we got home when we did…You’re too stubborn for your own good.”

“Yeah. I guess I am.”

“You should be more careful.”

“Wait, you think I did this on purpose or something? That this was my fault? I may be stubborn but I’m not stupid,” her voice rose.

“No, no. I don… I don’t think that… I just… I saw you there on the floor and I… I just had this image of trying to live here, do what we do, without you and I couldn’t. I couldn’t do any of this without you around. And Zeke… I can’t imagine what he would have done… This is my fault. I should have stayed behind to take care of you for as long as you needed.”

“Dean, no…”

“Just promise me if you need help with something you’ll let me know, okay?”

“I can do that,” she smiled at him gently and leaned back against the headboard, “Dean I need something.”

“Anything.”

“Do we have any dessert?” She smirked and he laughed at her. Of course she would want dessert at eleven in the damn morning, right after she nearly died. He’d expect nothing less.

“We do, as a matter of fact. Ice cream. You want some?”

“Oh yes. I definitely want some. But I want to eat it out there. I am sick of this room.”

“That can be arranged,” Dean first grabbed her a pair of shorts and helped her put them on and then he let her lean on him all the way to the kitchen where he set her in a chair and got her the desert. The smile she gave him was worth every second of work he did for her.