When the lights go out, what do you do? Do you use the generator to place a call to the local electric company and ask how long the power will be out? Do you even have a backup generator?
That works fine if the power will be out for a few days because of a major storm. The scenario could be a lot worse, however. There could be no answer on the other end of the line.
Would you know what to do? My redneck neighbor would know exactly what to do. Fortunately for me, she taught me several things that can help my family and yours in the event of a disaster.
7) Wood Stoves
The first smart idea she shared came just in time. She suggested getting a wood stove to decrease our exorbitant electric heating bills. Not just any wood stove, but a stove with a flat top to cook on should the need arise.
When we lost power in the middle of winter for several days with a newborn baby, we heated from and cooked on our woodstove.
6) Flashlights
Another useful idea came in the form of a small gift. She gave me a small handheld bright flashlight which had power generated from squeezing a handle.
Three quick squeezes and I have light for an hour. No batteries to wear out or be replaced.
5) Have Vitamins on Hand
She believes in being prepared, and she is aware that we are not all made out of money. Grocery stores with well-stocked shelves are a luxury we cannot take for granted.
If ever a disaster occurred, then the food available would suddenly become quite limited. She pointed out that having an updated supply of vitamins on hand is an inexpensive way to make sure a diet lacking in variety can still meet your basic needs.
4) Start Gardening
My friend is also a gardener. Her gardens are full of things to can for the winter. She has shared many tips on canning with me. Thanks to my neighbor, my home-canned spaghetti sauce usually lasts until the next growing season.
Whether or not you learn to preserve food by canning, your family will benefit from a healthy supply of canned goods being available in an emergency. Just make sure you have an old-fashioned handheld can opener that works manually!
3) Wheat Berries
She also taught me that whole wheat berries can be bought in bulk. It turns out that these wheat berries can be stored safely for about 25 years.
If you invest in a hand-operated grain mill, these berries can be turned into cereals and bread to last for quite a while.
2) Stock Up On Household Items
As silly as it may sound, my neighbor maintains a supply of items that never seemed very important before. If there is a sale on toothbrushes or soap, then she stocks up and stores them.
In a disaster, soap can save your life. A cut that gets washed out with soap and water most likely will not become infected. Clean teeth also prevent infection. Little things mean a lot when they are no longer available. She will not have that problem.
Recommended: 17 Tips For Surviving In The Wild
1) Learn to Hunt
I am no Annie Oakley, but I guarantee you I shoot better now than before I met my redneck neighbor. She hunts with her husband and can clean and dress a deer better than most men.
While I personally have not approached her skill level in this area, I do pay attention. If she is stuck in the woods some time, I have no doubt she will obtain food.
I am thankful for my neighbor and fully intend to learn as much as I can from her. Some of her smart ideas have enabled my family to save money and live comfortably without the usual creature comforts.
People can make fun of rednecks all they want, but as the song says, “a country boy can survive.” Country girls can, too.
