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Can You Survive for 72 Hours On Your Own?

November 21, 2013 @ 18:30 By Gavin Webber 17 Comments

I really love my wife.  We have been on this sustainable living journey together all the way. She gets it, and understands the impacts of what we are now facing with a changing climate.  With the arctic ice cap thinning and retreating, it is doing all sorts of damage to the climate in the northern hemisphere, not necessarily warming.  More like global weirding, if you like.

So, to my welcome surprise, Kim posted the passage below today on her Facebook page .  It is a sound and heartfelt ‘be prepared‘ warning to all her family and friends after she read a recent news article which states that the UK is expected to have a very bad winter:  http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/443462/Winter-2013-expected-to-be-worst-since-1947-with-heavy-and-persistent-snow-forecast-for-UK

TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY IN THE UK 

I read this last week and although I have spoken to my mum about it, she did not know that the forecasters are predicting such a bad winter for you all. I thought I would re-post it for you all to have a read. I know that sometimes they get it wrong but I thought that forewarned is forearmed so to say. 

Gavin and I are great believers in stockpiling non-perishable food items in case things crop up like bad weather/power cuts or if we cannot get to the shops etc. so we like to at least have a months worth of tin/jars dried food like lentils and pasta and essential items at home in case of emergencies including candles, matches etc.  We have a great wind up torch too which does not need batteries. A small camping stove in case there are power cuts (used in a well ventilated room of course). I know this may sound a little extreme but believe we have used our stock pile before in the past and it does work.

I have spoken to my mum and sister and encouraged them to get a few things in, just in case you never know. My Mum had a bit of a laugh and thinks I am a bit mad, but still she agreed it couldn’t hurt. If the weather gets that bad and you are unable to get to the shops for supplies you will be glad that you thought ahead. I also know that some of you do not have transport either so that will make it even harder for you to venture out if the weather turns nasty. 

The worst that can happen is that you have a few more tins/jars/dried food in the house it will not go to waste and it will be used.  On the other hand if the weather does get really bad and you cannot get to the shops you will hopefully at least have food and supplies to last you a while. 

I hate to sound all doom and gloomy guys but please have a read and take care everyone, I want to know that you are all safe this winter. xxxx 

Her great words of warning got me thinking.  I have written before the we are only nine meals from anarchy if the trucks stop rolling, but what about if you are caught up in a climate emergency stricken area and are waiting for help from the authorities.

Well, I am glad I did a little research, because most city folk may be surprised that if a natural disaster hits Australian cities, the policy is that you are on your own for at least 72 hours.  Refer to this link for more information;

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-22/city-slickers-unable-to-cope-with-disasters/5038800

I particularly think that this passage from the article hits home loud and clear;

“What people have got to know is that they’re on their own, literally on their own,” he said. 

“We can’t have a truck or a car at your door when you ring triple-0 in a disaster situation.” 

Experts say people should be prepared to look after themselves for at least three days after any major disaster. 

But Mr Winter says most people have no plans in place. 

“If we turn off power and water, how long will you be able to survive?” he said. 

A great question, in which I answer Yes, quite a while.  As Kim mentioned, we are well prepared if they turn off the power, water, and natural gas to our home right now, and could last for well over a month without external inputs.  Hopefully the sewage would still work, but I am sure we could figure out something there as well.  If we face inclement weather, then we will cope as our supplies are non-perishable.

So my question to you all is;

Can you survive for 72 hours without external help?  
What would you need to do to prepare if you are not ready?


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Filed Under: Be Prepared Challenge, climate change, Stockpile

TGoG Podcast 037 – Stockpiling Essentials

June 13, 2013 @ 23:30 By Gavin Webber 7 Comments

The Greening of Gavin PodcastThis episode is all about stockpiling essentials. Things like food, water, cooking methods and the like that are good to have at hand during an emergency.

A while ago, I wrote a post titled Nine Meals from Anarchy, which talks about what might happen in an emergency. This podcast episode takes it one step further where I talk about essential things that you may need in the event of an emergency if the supermarket shelves become bare.
Listen to the Episode Below (00:16:16)
Download Listen in a New Window iTunes Stitcher SoundCloud Leave a Review Clammr It Subscribe via RSS Subscribe on Android RSS Patreon

I also touch on a series of posts that I wrote a couple of years ago called the Be Prepared Challenge, collaborating with Bec from Eat At Dixiebelle’s.

Anyway, I hope that you gain an insight into why it is a great idea to have a small stockpile of sorts, in your own home.

Don’t forget that you can leave a comment about the podcast via this blog, or a leave me a voicemail question or comment via the gadget on the sidebar, which I can play during the next episode.

Happy Stockpiling!
If you enjoyed the podcast, please pop over to iTunes and rate it and leave a review. You can also do the same within Stitcher Radio if you use that service.  It would help me out so much, and elevate the ratings so that others can find out about the podcast and learn about sustainable living in the ‘burbs.

You can subscribe to the show via RSS or iTunes or Stitcher for your portable device.  Just use the subscription buttons below.

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Listen to Stitcher
 

Until next time, stay green and keep keen!

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Filed Under: Be Prepared Challenge, Podcast, Stockpile, TGOG Podcast

Be Prepared Challenge – Spread The Word

February 8, 2011 @ 21:11 By Gavin Webber 3 Comments

Welcome to the last week and task of the ‘Be Prepared Challenge’, and probably more difficult than all the rest of the tasks put together.  But before I start, I would like to thank Bec of Eat at Dixiebelle fame for thinking up the concept and being the brains behind the entire event.  May I just add that it has been my absolute pleasure to participate along side of her.  Check out her first task for this weeks objective at “:: Be Prepared Challenge :: Spread the Word – Step One ::“

So you have managed to get this far or certainly intend to.  You have your emergency bag or kit, you have stockpiled what you think is essential, and probably have a few emergency items for when zombies attack. 😉  Well lets hope it never gets to that stage.  Your task, if you accept it, is to SPREAD THE WORD!

Personally, this task of ‘Spread the word’ was probably not as difficult as I initially thought.  On the way home on the train tonight, I did some thinking about how I have spread the word to others and trying to influence them to think ahead a little bit and plan for events that may or may not happen in their neck of the woods.  It took me a while, but there are a few ways.  Well of course there is this blog, but my most extreme way was to show Australia my stockpile via a national TV current affairs show called the 7PM Project, but not many of us have the opportunity to do that or have TV crews visiting every so often.  Or do you?

But the most subtle and effective way is just to bring the subject up in general conversation with guests, friends and family, explain the benefits including frugality, preparedness, and maybe even being a ‘surviromentalist’ and then simply show them.  Ask them specifically what they think of the natural and man made disasters occurring throughout the world and ask if they think they are prepared.  This has always worked for me, and then you will probably find that they will then ask questions about things that you store, how long items last, or have in your emergency bag and the like. It just makes people listen and think when the message comes from someone they trust.

Also, I often joke at work with friends that I am preparing for the zombie apocalypse and that they should as well, which is kind of a running gag in the office, however friends let me know each week how they are doing little things to prepare for the big event whether it be making vegetable beds, or making food with their own home grown produce. Zombies beware I say! We are prepared. :=)

Don’t be afraid to always talk up the financial benefits of being prepared.  Money is still a personal driver for many members of our society.  From the inventory taking, insurance and photo storage, to the food mountain you have created, all will be guaranteed to save them a few bucks. 

But in the end, it doesn’t matter how prepared you are, it all comes down to community spirit.  We have certainly all see this happen in the floods, cyclone and fires in recent months.  Perfect strangers helping each other in times of need.  Call me optimistic, but I reckon that when the shit does hit the fan for a prolonged period of time either through climate events or societal collapse, not that I am expecting the later any time soon (but I maybe closer than I think with current events occurring in Northern Africa), our communities will pull together and begin to learn from one and another.  It is either that or anarchy, which personally, the Sex Pistols can keep on their record album. 

When it comes to community spirit, the best way to foster this is to join or start a group of like-minded people, or an existing service club that is active in your area.  Whatever takes your fancy really, but just get involved.  How are you going to spread the word if you don’t get out there and meet people in your local area.  So many people these days (in the west anyway), don’t know their neighbours from a bar of soap.  I am very proud to say that I do know mine, and I call them good friends.  We know that we can turn to each other for a favour or the proverbial cup of sugar when we need it the most.  It certainly is a great feeling and sense of security.

I would like to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for participating in the ‘Be Prepared Challenge’, and it just goes to show that the virtual community is also alive and well.  I have had great feedback via email, facebook and comments that this challenge has been educational, entertaining and timely.

Also, don’t forget that Bec mentioned that she still had a few more posts regarding the challenge as well, so don’t forget to ‘Eat at Dixiebelles‘.  She has her head screwed on right does that one!

Well done, one and all.  Signing out of the challenge.

Gavin

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About Gavin Webber

About Gavin Webber

An Ordinary Australian Man Who Has A Green Epiphany Whilst Watching A Documentary, Gets a Hybrid Car, Plants A Large Organic Vegetable Garden, Goes Totally Solar, Lowers Consumption, Feeds Composts Bins and Worms, Harvests Rainwater, Raises Chickens, Makes Cheese and Soap, and Eats Locally. All In The Effort To Reduce Our Family's Carbon Footprint So We Can Start Making A Difference For Our Children & Future Generations To Come.

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Podcast Reviews

  • Always inspiring and entertaining!
    August 4, 2016 by floriographer from Australia

    I've crowed about Gavin's podcast before but I just have to recommend it once again - I love that he shares his learning as well as his successes - it helps the rest of us try try try again! Thanks Gavin!

  • ms
    July 22, 2016 by Ketaea12 from New Zealand

    I really enjoy listening to Gavin, he has a kind lovely voice. He covers some great relevant topics for the everyday greenie. With lots of tips or how to or what not to do. Thanks Gavin, love it!!

  • Well worth your time to tune in
    October 23, 2015 by A Vision Splendid from Australia

    I can highly recommend Gavin’s podcast ! I have followed Gavin’s blog since the very beginning and have loved to see his journey unfold. Gavin has a lovely speaking voice so this podcast is always very easy to listen to. Gavin has a very authentic approach to his green living lifestyle. He shares the ups and downs but always provides motivation and practical steps that we can all implement.

  • very good
    June 28, 2015 by Scared pax from United Kingdom

    This is a great podcast if you want to improve your life in so many aspects and become a more sustainable person. I love the soothing voice, the good pace, and it contains lots of useful information. Recommended!

  • opened my eyes
    May 25, 2015 by Gorn4lyfe from Australia

    A wonderful show!

  • Inspiring
    April 30, 2015 by Alan Whelan from Ireland

    This is a great podcast if you're looking for practical info on saving money by living more sustainably from someone who's made that journey over the last few years. Told in a nice, easy conversational style

  • Green Living, inspiring and practical
    January 8, 2015 by EliseMac from Australia

    Thanks Gav for sharing what has (and hasn't) worked along your journey for living a greener lifestyle. Inspiring and achievable for anyone, I look forward to this podcast weekly.

  • Local food equals less waste
    December 27, 2014 by allotmentadventureswithjean from Australia

    Another brilliant podcast from Gavin Webber encouraging us, and showing us how, to cut down on food miles, growing our own food, and cutting down on food waste. Gavin is a really interesting speaker, showing us how to eat better, growing our own food and how to live more sustainably.

  • Honestly australian
    December 15, 2014 by HodgepodgeOz from Australia

    Fantastic podcast, with a wide variety of well thought and researched topics. Gavin is a honest, forthright pod aster with a genuine interest in helping others get green. Like a day alongside is a day wasted, so too is a week without listening to Gavin. Highly recommended for people starting out, or those in the midst of their new lifestyle. Keep it up Gavin, wish there were more great reviews! Kimberley

  • Morning motivation
    December 8, 2014 by Bunnyworm from Australia

    Gavin has a great passion for living this greener lifestyle that motivates others to do the same. The podcasts are always interesting and informative. :)

  • Passionate Advocate
    October 18, 2014 by BoomOpGirl from Australia

    Gavin's enthusiasm and passion for creating a more sustainable world is nothing short of contagious. Thanks Gav, you are my weekly source of motivation for living a sustainable life! :)

  • Gavin speaks from the heart
    October 13, 2014 by Green gavin from Australia

    Gavin's podcasts are required listening for anyone planning to live a more sustainable life. He doesn't preach, but tells you his story from the heart. You'll laugh, smile, share in his concerns and along the way you'll pick up some great tips on living a simple life.

  • Green thoughts, so well iterated
    October 9, 2014 by Kwasikwami from Australia

    This is a wonderful podcast. Not only does Gavin talk knowledgeably on a range of sustainability topics from gardening tips all the way to the issues facing humanity as a whole, but he does so in such a wonderful voice, it's like listening to my Dad, love it!!

  • Easy listening inspiration on being green
    September 24, 2014 by Broomedy from Australia

    Gav knows how to share his journey to a more sustainable life in a manner that shows just how easy it really is. Not to mention healthier, economically beneficial and generally rewarding. The podcasts are an easy way to absorb Gav's great lifestyle. I recommend to anyone.

  • Thanks Gavin!
    August 31, 2014 by Honeywoodmilk from Australia

    Great practical advice for a greener lifestyle. This podcast is for anybody interested in growing their own food in suburbia, saving electricity, brewing beer, making cheese, all that wonderful business and most of all, saving money! Thanks Gavin, love the podcast mate!

  • Enjoyed those ideas for staying warm
    August 15, 2014 by enduringdragon from United States

    Like you we are having winter here in Chile—brrr! Every bit we can save on heating we will.

  • Green Podcasts
    July 26, 2014 by Carneu from Australia

    Excellent podcasts, which are full of information to help get started on a sustainable lifestyle.

  • Practical ideas and inspiration
    July 19, 2014 by HeathrowHeath from Australia

    I highly recommend Gavin's podcast and blog. Down to earth, entertaining and inspirational. Thank you.

  • Interesting & easy to listen to
    April 27, 2014 by Velocity3 from New Zealand

    Gavin & his guests make this green journey lots of fun.

  • Great green listen
    April 18, 2014 by Obscurenickname from Australia

    Gavin is a great down to earth, tell it like it is aussie with a passion for sustainability and growing food and making cheese

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