Everyday Items with Extraordinary Uses

In an emergency situation, multiple uses for everyday items could mean the difference in clean drinking water and something to eat or death. These items should be stockpiled in case a disaster leaves you without electricity, gas, and water sources.

Pool Shock: Referred to as the “other bleach” by preppers, pool shock, or granular calcium hypochlorite, is often used for purifying water because its shelf-life is ten years as compared to liquid bleach, which starts losing its strength after only six months, even if unopened. After a full year, it can be only half its normal strength, and after two years, it is completely ineffective. Make sure you purchase the type with 68% to 70% Calcium Hypochlorite. Gently pour ½ teaspoon into one gallon of water and mix until dissolved. Let rest for thirty minutes, shaking occasionally. You now have one gallon of liquid bleach, perfect to use as a disinfecting solution.

Drink Can Top: Using only the opening tab from an aluminum pop can, a metal nail file, and a pair of wire cutters, you can create a perfect fishing hook. Simply use the wire cutters to make a slanted cut in the bottom hole in the tab. Cut away a small portion of the ring and sharpen to a point. File down any sharp edges on the smaller, top hook so that your line doesn’t wear on the metal. Tie your hook onto a strong line and you’re ready to catch dinner in the nearest stream.

Nylons: Panty hose or nylons have multiple uses and should be included in any 72-hour kit. Not only can they keep you warm, they can be tied together for a sturdy rope, used to filter leaves and debris from water, and due to their elasticity, they can be used as a giant rubber band.

Bandana: A bandana has a myriad of uses, including medical uses such as a tourniquet or a sling. It can be used to carry nuts and berries that you find in the wilderness. You can use it to wipe your forehead or protect your neck or head from the sun. Use it to blow your nose or wash your face. Use it as a pot holder when cooking over a fire or as a dust mask in instances of urban survival.

So in the same way that Jason Hartman suggests diversifying your portfolio, you must think of ways to expand the uses of everyday items to help you survive in times of crisis.

The Holistic Survival Team