Skillful Living

Introduction

In today’s world, we are heavily reliant on technology and electricity to power our homes, devices, and our tools. However, in the event of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) event, this dependence on electronics can become a liability. An EMP is a burst of electromagnetic radiation that can be caused by natural phenomena such as solar flares or human-made events such as nuclear detonations and can potentially disrupt or even destroy electronic devices and power grids, leading to catastrophic, widespread power outages and communication failures.

To be better prepared for an EMP event, it is important to have a plan in place and to be equipped with the necessary survival skills and tools. In this post, we will cover a variety of topics related to EMP survival, including building a Faraday cage to protect electronics, creating a solar-powered charger to power devices, building a water filtration system to obtain clean drinking water, and putting together a comprehensive first aid kit to address injuries and illnesses. We will also discuss the importance of having manual tools and the skills to use them for survival on the homestead after an EMP event occurs.

By being informed and prepared, we can increase our chances of surviving an EMP event and its aftermath. But, to do so, steps need to be taken now to ensure that we have the necessary tools, knowledge and ability to protect ourselves and our families in the event of an EMP.

Surviving an EMP

To enhance the possibility of surviving and thriving after an EMP event, it is important to have an EMP survival kit that includes items for both yourself and your electronics. For example:

1. Faraday Cage – A Faraday cage is a metallic container that is designed to block electromagnetic fields. You can use it to store your electronics such as laptops, radios, and cellphones. You can make a Faraday cage using aluminum foil, a metal trash can or a microwave oven. Make sure to ground the container to prevent the buildup of static electricity.

2. Solar-Powered Charger – A solar-powered charger is an excellent alternative to a traditional charger that relies on electricity. A solar-powered charger can keep your electronics running by using the sun’s energy. You can purchase a portable solar charger for your cellphone, tablet or laptop.
3. Manual Tools – Manual tools can replace electronic tools that may be affected by an EMP. Manual tools such as hand-cranked radios, flashlights, and can openers can be used to replace their electronic counterparts.
4. Water Filtration System – A water filtration system is essential in any survival kit. You should have a water filtration system that can filter out bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from natural water sources.
5. First Aid Kit – A first aid kit should contain all the necessary medical supplies such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
6. Vehicle – In terms of vehicles, older cars without electronic components have the best chance of surviving an EMP. Classic cars from the 1960s or earlier, some 70s models, military vehicles, and older diesel engines are more likely to survive an EMP. These vehicles have fewer electronic components, making them less vulnerable to EMP damage. It’s important to note that even these vehicles are not 100% immune to EMPs (i.e. points, batteries, starters, glow plugs), but they have a higher chance of survival than newer vehicles with more electronic components.

Faraday Cage

A Faraday cage is a metallic enclosure that is designed to protect its contents from electromagnetic fields, including those produced by an EMP. It works by creating a shield that absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, preventing it from reaching the contents inside the cage.

Here’s a step-by-step process for making a simple Faraday cage using a metal container:

1. Choose a metallic container – You can use a metal trash can, a metal filing cabinet, or even a metal box. Make sure it’s made of conductive metal, such as aluminum or steel.
2. Line the container with an insulating material – Cover the interior of the container with an insulating material such as cardboard, rubber, or foam. This will prevent the electronics from touching the metal and creating a conductive path that could allow the EMP to penetrate the cage.
3. Place your electronics inside the cage – Put your electronics inside the container. Make sure they’re not touching the metal walls of the container.
4. Seal the container – Seal the container with aluminum foil or copper tape to prevent any gaps that could allow the EMP to penetrate the cage. Make sure the seal is complete and that there are no gaps.
5. Ground the container – To prevent any build-up of static electricity inside the cage, ground the container by connecting it to a conductive surface, such as a metal pipe or a grounded wire.

Testing a Faraday cage before it’s needed can be challenging, because it requires exposing the cage to a high-level electromagnetic field. However, there are some simple tests you can perform to verify its effectiveness.

One way to test a Faraday cage is to place a battery-powered radio or cellphone inside the cage and see if it can still receive a signal. If the device can’t receive a signal while inside the cage but can when taken out, then the cage is likely effective.

Another way to test the cage is to use an electromagnetic field meter. An electromagnetic field meter can measure the level of electromagnetic radiation outside and inside the cage. If the level of electromagnetic radiation inside the cage is significantly lower than outside, then the cage is likely effective.

Solar-powered Charger

A solar-powered charger is a device that uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy. It can be used to charge electronic devices such as cellphones, tablets, and laptops without relying on traditional electrical outlets. Here is some more information about obtaining, installing, protecting, and using a solar-powered charger:

Obtaining a solar-powered charger:

1. Determine the type of solar-powered charger you need – There are various types of solar-powered chargers, including portable chargers, panel chargers, and backpack chargers. Decide which type suits your needs best.
2. Research different brands and models – Look for reputable brands that have good reviews and ratings. Compare prices and features to find the best solar-powered charger for your needs.
3. Purchase the charger – You can purchase a solar-powered charger online or at a local electronics store.

Installing a solar-powered charger:

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions – Each solar-powered charger comes with specific instructions for installation. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure the charger works correctly.
2. Choose a location – The solar panels of the charger should be placed in a location that receives maximum sunlight. Choose a location that is free from shade and is not obstructed by any buildings or trees.
3. Connect the charger to your electronic device – Most solar-powered chargers come with a USB port to connect your electronic device. Connect the charger to your device as instructed.

Protecting a solar-powered charger:

1. Keep the solar panels clean – Dirt, dust, and debris can affect the efficiency of the solar panels. Clean the solar panels regularly with a soft cloth to ensure they are working correctly.
2. Protect the charger from water and other elements – Most solar-powered chargers are weather-resistant, but they should still be protected from extreme weather conditions. Keep the charger in a dry location when not in use.
3. Store the charger carefully – When not in use, store the solar-powered charger in a protective case or bag to prevent damage.

Using a solar-powered charger:

1. Place the charger in direct sunlight – The solar panels of the charger need direct sunlight to function correctly. Place the charger in direct sunlight to maximize its efficiency.
2. Monitor the charging – Most solar-powered chargers have LED lights that indicate when the device is charging. Monitor these lights to ensure the device is charging correctly.
3. Charge the device fully – It may take longer to charge a device using a solar-powered charger than using a traditional charger. Make sure to charge the device fully before using it.

By following the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and taking the necessary precautions to protect and maintain the charger, you can ensure it works effectively.

Manual Tools

In the event of an EMP event, electronic tools and devices may no longer work. It is important to have manual tools on hand to replace these electronic tools. Here are some manual tools that may be useful on a homestead:

1. Hand tools – Hand tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, and saws are essential for any homestead. These tools can be used for a variety of tasks, such as construction, repairs, and maintenance.
2. Manual kitchen tools – Manual kitchen tools such as a hand-cranked food processor, a hand-cranked grain mill, and a manual meat grinder can replace electronic kitchen tools such as blenders, food processors, and electric grinders.
3. Manual sewing tools – Manual sewing tools such as needles, thread, and a manual sewing machine can replace electronic sewing machines.
4. Manual farm tools – Manual farm tools such as a scythe, sickle, hoe, rake, and pitchfork can replace electronic tools such as lawn mowers, weed eaters, and tractors.
5. Water-related tools – In the absence of electricity, manual tools such as a hand pump or a gravity-fed water filtration system can be used to access and purify water.
6. Lighting tools – In the event of a power outage, manual lighting tools such as oil lamps, candles, and flashlights can provide illumination.
7. Communication tools – In the absence of electronic communication, manual tools such as a whistle, a signaling mirror, and a two-way radio can be used to communicate.

It is important to have these manual tools on hand and to be familiar with how to use them before an EMP event occurs. By having these tools available, a homestead can continue to function and thrive even without electricity.

Water Filtration System

After an EMP event, it may become difficult to access clean drinking water. A water filtration system is essential for ensuring that water is safe for consumption. Here is a step-by-step plan for building a water filtration system to use after an EMP event:

Materials needed:

• 2 five-gallon plastic buckets with lids
• Clean sand
• Clean gravel
• Clean charcoal
• Clean cloth or coffee filter
• Drill with 1/4 inch bit
• Spigot

Steps:

1. Drill a hole in the bottom of one of the buckets. This will be the bucket that holds the filtered water, so make sure the hole is large enough to fit the spigot.
2. Cut a hole in the lid of the other bucket that is the same size as the one in the bottom of the first bucket.
3. Layer the bottom of the first bucket with about two inches of clean gravel.
4. Layer the gravel with about four inches of clean sand.
5. Crush the charcoal into small pieces and layer it on top of the sand.
6. Add another layer of sand on top of the charcoal.
7. Place the lid with the hole on top of the first bucket.
8. Place the second bucket on top of the lid. This will act as a reservoir for unfiltered water.
9. Place a clean cloth or coffee filter over the hole in the lid to prevent debris from entering the filter.
10. Fill the top bucket with unfiltered water.
11. Allow the water to slowly filter through the layers of sand, charcoal, and gravel into the bottom bucket.
12. Install the spigot in the hole at the bottom of the first bucket.
13. Pour the filtered water through the spigot into a clean container.
14. Repeat the process as necessary to obtain additional filtered water.

Note: This filtration system is designed to remove particulate matter and impurities from the water, but it is not designed to remove pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. To ensure that the filtered water is safe for consumption, it is recommended to boil the water for at least one minute before drinking.

By following this step-by-step plan, you can build a simple yet effective water filtration system to use after an EMP event.

First Aid Kit

Having a fully functional and well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for any emergency situation, including after an EMP event. Here are some items and skills needed for a comprehensive first aid kit:

Items for the kit:

1. Adhesive bandages in various sizes
2. Sterile gauze pads in various sizes
3. Adhesive tape
4. Sterile saline solution for cleaning wounds
5. Antiseptic wipes
6. Scissors
7. Tweezers
8. Thermometer
9. Non-latex gloves
10. Instant cold packs
11. Antibiotic ointment
12. Pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
13. Antihistamine medication (such as diphenhydramine)
14. Anti-diarrheal medication
15. Prescription medications (if needed)
16. First aid manual or reference book

Skills needed:

1. Basic wound care and cleaning techniques
2. Basic CPR and rescue breathing techniques
3. How to use a tourniquet in case of severe bleeding
4. How to identify and treat signs of shock
5. How to recognize and treat fractures or sprains
6. How to properly use an EpiPen in case of anaphylaxis
7. Basic knowledge of medications and their uses
8. How to identify and treat symptoms of dehydration and heat exhaustion
9. Basic knowledge of how to recognize and treat common illnesses

To build a comprehensive first aid kit, it is important to have a variety of items on hand to address a range of injuries and illnesses. Additionally, it is important to have knowledge of basic first aid techniques and be able to identify and address emergency situations. Also, it may be helpful to consider additional items such as burn cream, wound closure strips, and a splint.

By having a well-stocked first aid kit and knowledge of basic first aid techniques, you can be better prepared to address injuries and illnesses that may occur after an EMP event.

Conclusion

In the previous few paragraphs, we covered various topics related to EMP survival. These included protecting electronics with a Faraday cage, using a solar-powered charger, building a water filtration system, and putting together a comprehensive first aid kit.

Though an EMP may not necessarily be an immediate life-threatening situation, it can become so depending on the cumulative aftermath effects and requires a multi-faceted approach for preparation. This means that survival in a post-EMP world may require more than just having the appropriate tools and equipment. It could also require resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn new skills. For a new homesteader, understanding how to grow your own food, raise livestock, build and maintain basic infrastructure and be able to defend it all will become critical for long-term survival. By obtaining the necessary knowledge, skills and equipment beforehand, you can greatly increase your chances of thriving in the aftermath of such an event.

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