Shelter

Sailboats are your mobile sanctuaries in the wilderness. Discover tips and tricks for outfitting your vessel to create a safe, comfortable shelter, and learn how to weatherproof your boat for any conditions.

Building a DIY Emergency Shelter: Tips and Tricks

Building a DIY Emergency Shelter: Tips and Tricks

1. Introduction

Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and having a reliable shelter during such times is crucial. Whether you're preparing for natural disasters, camping adventures, or other unforeseen circumstances, building your own emergency shelter can provide a sense of security and self-sufficiency. In this blog article, we'll explore the tips and tricks for constructing a DIY emergency shelter.

2. Assessing Your Needs

Before embarking on your DIY shelter project, it's essential to assess your specific needs and requirements. Understanding the potential emergency scenarios you may encounter will help you design a shelter that suits those situations best.

Start by identifying the types of emergencies common in your area, such as hurricanes, floods, or extreme cold. This knowledge will enable you to plan for the specific challenges posed by each scenario. Consider the duration of the emergency and the number of people the shelter needs to accommodate. For short-term emergencies, a temporary shelter may suffice, while a semi-permanent structure might be more suitable for longer durations.

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Why Bunkers Are Useless: Exploring Better Alternatives for Protection
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Why Bunkers Are Useless: Exploring Better Alternatives for Protection

Bunkers have been around for centuries, and their purpose is to provide a safe haven during emergencies. They are usually designed to withstand natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and even nuclear war. However, in recent times, there has been a growing concern about the usefulness of bunkers. In fact, many experts believe that bunkers are completely useless in most situations. In this article, we will examine why bunkers are useless and explore alternative options.

Firstly, it is important to note that bunkers are not indestructible. They may be able to withstand some disasters, but they are not invincible. For instance, during a nuclear war, a bunker may protect you from the initial blast, but it may not protect you from the radiation fallout. Additionally, a bunker is susceptible to structural damage over time, especially if it is not maintained properly.

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CaptainJack replied the topic:
1 month 1 week ago
Ahoy there! I must commend ye on this thought-provoking piece. You've certainly got the cut of my jib with this article, mate.

I've been living aboard my trusty catamaran, braving the briny deep for years now, and I can attest to the validity of your arguments. A bunker might be fine for a squall or two, but, as you rightly pointed out, they ain't no good if you need to change course quickly. Now, a seaworthy catamaran? That's a different kettle of fish. It's your home, your transport, and with a bit of nifty navigation, your ticket to survival in a storm.

I do feel it's worth mentioning the importance of being well-versed in the care and maintenance of such a vessel. A sailboat ain't just a floating bunker. It's a complex piece of machinery that needs regular upkeep to stay shipshape and Bristol fashion. The sea can be a harsh mistress, and she won't take kindly to any neglect of your duties. So, beginners should make sure they learn the ropes before they cast off.

As for the self-sufficient community idea, it's a sound one. Many a time, I've dropped anchor in secluded bays where folks have chosen to live off the grid, and they seem to be doing just fine. But remember, as with the sea, living in close quarters with Mother Nature requires respect and understanding of her moods and whims.

All in all, a fine piece of writing, and I hope it gets folks to thinking about alternatives to the traditional bunker mentality. Keep up the good work, mate!

Fair winds and following seas to ye. #SailboatSurvival #SelfSufficientCommunities #PracticalPrepping

Where you should head to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter, according to scientists

Where you should head to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter, according to scientists

The Doomsday Clock has moved the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - largely because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also the climate crisis. Now, a study finds five locations most likely to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter.

If 2023 is the year the world starts to collapse, scientists think they know where you should head to survive.

The Doomsday Clock has moved the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - largely because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also the climate crisis.

Now, researchers say Australia and New Zealand are among five island nations most likely to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter.

The study, by the University of Otago and Adapt Research in New Zealand, looked at the impact of "a severe sun-reducing catastrophe" such as a nuclear war, super volcano or asteroid strike on global agricultural systems.

Researchers found Australia, New Zealand, Iceland, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu most capable of continuing to produce food despite the reduced sunlight and fall in temperatures - and help reboot a collapsed human civilisation.

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EmSmi replied the topic:
1 month 1 week ago
The article presents an interesting perspective on survival locales in the event of a nuclear winter. As a survivalist and sailor, I find this research quite enlightening. However, I'd like to add a few points for consideration.

While these five island nations may be ideal in terms of food production and climate, the practicality of reaching them during a global catastrophe might be challenging. As a liveaboard sailor, I can vouch for the difficulty of crossing oceans, especially under severe weather conditions. And in a post-apocalyptic scenario, who's to say what the sea conditions would be?

Survival isn't just about the destination, it's about the journey as well. Having a well-prepared sailboat with self-sustaining systems like solar panels and a desalination system, like my own 'Sea Breeze', allows for extended survival at sea. It's a mobile shelter that can navigate to safer areas while providing basic necessities.

Also, a secluded island doesn't necessarily have to be one of the nations mentioned. There are countless small, uninhabited islands around the world that could provide a temporary safe haven in case of a catastrophe. Plus, living on a boat offers the flexibility to move if the situation on the island becomes unmanageable.

Lastly, I'd like to emphasize the importance of prepping. Whether it's for a nuclear winter or a severe storm, being prepared is vital. It's not just about having a plan; it's about having the skills, supplies, and mindset to adapt and overcome. As the saying goes, "It's better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it."

Safe sailing and happy prepping, folks!

Preparing For A Hurricane (Living on Land)

Preparing For A Hurricane (Living on Land)

How To Prepare For A Hurricane

Hurricane from SpaceBeyond Just Flashlights And Batteries

How often have you heard this ‘typical’ recommendation (from ‘.gov’)?

"For emergency preparedness keep a disaster supply kit containing 72 hours of food & water, a flashlight with extra batteries, a battery powered radio, and a First Aid Kit."

While those preps are simply logical, it seems ridiculous to even have to suggest them (who doesn’t already have a flashlight in their home?). What’s worse, it may be portrayed that these ordinary preps are adequate to weather the storm (hurricane?)! Really?

Here are a few recommendations to help make better decisions and judgements during a time when there’s a hurricane in the forecast:

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Dive deep into the world of sailboats, from choosing the right vessel for your prepper needs to maintenance and navigation. Explore the skills required to make your boat a reliable, self-sufficient platform.

Having lived in Toronto, and then on a farm in Northern Ontario, my move to a catamaran sailboat on the ocean 8 years ago was a big change, but a welcome one. Eight years of living on the oceans has taught me a lot, and re-affirmed my belief that a sailing catamaran is the ultimate in survival shelters.