OAUSA Net - October 15, 2015 - How to Build a Bug Out Bag

[DaveK]

The discussion this week will involve a topic that should be on interest to everyone. Sooner or later, the chances are that it will be necessary to leave home due to some sort of disaster or emergency. Between earthquakes, floods, fires, riots, hurricanes, tornadoes, or tsunamis, there never seems to be a shortage of reasons to be prepared. Having a well prepared bug out bag, ready to go, can make the trip from home safer and more comfortable.

Join Rick, KK6CTT, in discussing how to make a well stocked bug out bag.

[lrsrngr]

My suggestion for a "vendor of the week" vs. product spotlight.

2090 N Garey Ave
Pomona, California
(909) 596-1924

https://www.facebook.com/M-I-Surplus-15 ... /timeline/

Previously post: viewtopic.php?f=70&t=3917

[lrsrngr]

My suggestion for a "vendor of the week" vs. product spotlight.

2090 N Garey Ave
Pomona, California
(909) 596-1924

https://www.facebook.com/M-I-Surplus-15 ... /timeline/

Previously posted in "Coping with the Outdoors": viewtopic.php?f=70&t=3917

Rule of Threes, In any extreme situation you cannot survive for more than:
3 minutes without air
3 hours without shelter
3 days without water
3 weeks without food

[lrsrngr]

Running the gamut of what a bug out bag list looks like. For many it will be as simple as the previously mentioned "Essential List" for others it goes much, much deeper! It becomes, and I use the phrase again, a "system" approach. Many of us recognize that moving away from our home; read as "bountiful supply depot"; would happen only under extreme duress. Others would do so because they have a place to go with as much or more of the things that would set them up for for several days, months and even years...there are extremes and sometimes, for peace of mind "extremes" keep us within our comfort zone.

Looking for some preparedness 101 try Emergency Essentials: http://beprepared.com/education/prepare ... aQodpDsFOw

Or

FEMA: http://m.fema.gov/build-a-kit (not for the advanced prepper or outdoor enthusiast but it is a start).

Speaking of "start" there is no better time to work on your current or non-existent kit than NOW! I'm not telling any of the veteran kit builders/owners anything new. Do your research, take what you like and disregard or "put on the shelf" ideas that you are not ready to tackle. Dust them off later when you are comfortable with your current status and add to your existing kit when you are in the "right frame of mind" to, when you have the extra cash you need or simply because you have evolved in your thought process or your situation has changed and therefore your gear list has to as well.

Now here is an advanced lesson that shows all the gear in the world will not bridge the gap if you don't have some sort of fieldcraft knowledge and this is the pinnacle of understanding what you can do in the worst of situations. Believe me, I would much rather have the right gear up front which would give me a head start and avoid the scrounging and tool making that this guy goes through but it is nice to know you can get past "go" by simply understanding survival concepts and skills.

Primitive shelter building with all the comforts of home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P73REgj-3UE and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCKkHql ... freload=10

There are countless ways to skin this cat and I will not be able to post all the different sources that are available. I like the concept of not burning unnecessary calories if I don't have to. Research and understanding your specific needs are what is important.

[lrsrngr]

Basics done right:

A systematic approach:
1. Print up a few lists of what is needed (research your topic).
2. Identify the specific need(s) for the BOB based on your research not your preconceived notions.
3. Find the common theme and buy the gear that best meets the needs of several "situations" not just specific situations unless you are really working towards a specific need that you just cannot fathom taking care of NOW. General purpose driven kits can lay the base for future additions addressing lower priorities on your list of things you want to be prepared for.
4. Shop the sales, subscribe to the places that are reputable and do continuous research on products and their reviews.
5. Go camping with what you have. Camping is such a great test bed for understanding the capabilities of your gear and fine tuning what works and does not. For example, I grew up using a USGI machete and I can do all that I need to do around camp with that tool save cut down an 18", 100 foot tall tree. I have found that I would much rather have a hammer and machete than an axe or hatchet. The weight factor is very similar.
6. What is right for me, may not be right for you. Those experts out there...worth listening to, but as I said in the Army when we rappelled or conducted parachute operations, "You tied it, you ride it!"
7. Understand that we live in a world of "Sheep" preyed upon the by the "Wolf" and the only way to keep what you have put together is to think like a "Sheep Dog." Yes, that means a whole bunch of other gear and training that is best dealt with; first and foremost, between you and your family and second, with those who may influence your success because of their proximity to you (neighbors/community). This is a complex and often very personal area of discussion/concern.
8. Does your plan include coming together at a certain location? Does your gear support that? Does your vehicle provide the means to get there? Does your planned primary, alternate and alternate-alternate route get you where you need to be? Is your plan feasible?
9. Can you carry the burden of a well outfitted BOB? Physically? What allowances or concessions have you made to help with that?
10. I think Wes, in a previous net, put it very well, "Survival does not mean comfortable..." Fit and function should always win over what's trendy, shiny and new unless you can have it all in one package!

[lrsrngr]

Here's an example list with none of the nice frills that I would have liked to share. It is a start and kind of on the CERT/EMCOMM side of the fence. I did go through it and add some comments. Hopefully we have some time to talk about many of the points.

[lrsrngr]

Some extra stuff I had around work that I could use as an example.

[lrsrngr]

Noteworthy points:

-REI can be a good source of gear. They were said to have a year in-house warranty that would go towards other gear (like a credit?) if something was returned. "Lifetime" membership is $20 as long as you make a purchase every year. If you fail to make a purchase in that year you will be asked to renew your membership with another $20. REI is definitely a source to consider and hopefully it is explained in detail here: https://www.rei.com/membership/benefits
-Standardize batteries
-"Two-fer": When an item can be used for more than its intended purpose. Example: Vaseline/Petroleum Jelly can be used as lip balm, lotion, fire starter, water seal lubricant and much more.
-Metal frame magnifying dime store glasses.
-Swiss Army Knives make good EDC tools.
-Carry your prescriptions for Meds so that you have a better chance of getting them filled if you ever run out during an emergency.
-Have a plan for you important documents.
-Participate in a resident survival course (a good one).
-Wire nuts for field connections.

I'm sure there were more but I was flying solo and my note taking was not as "on point" as it could have been. Thanks for coming out and feel free to post additional comments concerning this topic. Your imagination is the limit!