Stockpiling Essentials

In this newsletter, we aim to provide you with some news on us as a company, the products we provide, as well as general advice and information on how you can better prepare for whatever emergency or life adventure comes your way.

If there are specific topics you wish for us to cover or if you have any questions, CONTACT US.

Team Proactive

Being a specialist Emergency Food Manufacturer, we have the advantage of picking up on collective national trends and sentiments and are noting an unusual uptick in demand.

On the back of the last elections and an uncertain political future, the risk of a breakdown, unrest and disruption to supply chains cannot be overstated. If political unrest is not enough, natural disasters and acts of nature, flooding and climate change impact on crops and food security are there to remind us.

Since June 2024, we've been focused on building up large stock levels of essential food items to ensure you are able to prepare accordingly.

We have doubled our manufacturing capacity and have shortened the lead-time to manufacture on all our products.

For those of you that have already purchased our products - we say thank you. You are however reminded that as fantastic as these products may be, they should not be regarded as "set and forget". Instead you are reminded to review your provisions, update and rotate at the very least quarterly.

In addition, we wanted to share some general guidance as to stockpiling effectively, tailored to the unique challenges of today.

Understanding the Basics - be proactive!

Stockpiling involves gathering and storing supplies, in advance, that will help you and your loved ones survive during emergencies. The goal is to be self-sufficient for extended periods, whether it’s days, weeks, or even months. The key categories of essentials include food, water, medical supplies, and other critical items like tools and communication devices.

We cannot emphasise it enough, a proactive approach is vital, as when SHTF, availability will be non-existent and what may be available will be unaffordable.

Food Storage: Sustenance is Key

Non-perishable Foods

The foundation of anyone's pantry should be non-perishable foods. These include canned goods, dried foods, and freeze-dried items that can last for years if stored correctly. Staples such as rice, beans, pasta, and canned vegetables are good additions. They are calorie-dense and provide the necessary nutrients to sustain energy levels.

Preserved and Freeze-Dried Foods

If our products meet your budget, then you will have an excellent variety of meals, meats, and vegetables that are nutritious, delicious, and long-lasting. If you're on a budget, consider foods like Biltong, dried fruits, and vegetables to stockpile. Dried foods are lightweight, have a long shelf life, and can be easily rehydrated or consumed as is.

Proper Storage

Store your food supplies in a cool, dark, and dry place to maximise shelf life. Use airtight containers and vacuum-sealed bags to prevent spoilage and contamination. Note that even airtight plastic containers will allow oxygen to eventually seep through and spoil your food. Rather use glass jars with tight rubber sealed lids and store in a dark cool place. Ideally, you can use metal laminated pouches, which offer the best overall food storage. (These can be bought from us here). Remember to label your food with purchase dates and rotate your stock to use older items first.

Water: The Elixir of Life

Water Storage

Water is crucial for survival, and each person needs at least 5l of water per day for drinking and basic hygiene. Store water in food-grade containers and keep them in a cool, dark place. It’s advisable to have a minimum two-week supply of water for each person in your household.

Water Purification

In addition to storing water, having the means to purify water is essential. Water purification tablets, portable filters, and UV purifiers can help ensure that you have access to safe drinking water even when your stored supply runs out. Boiling water is also an effective method, but it requires a heat source.

Medical Supplies: Health and First Aid

First Aid Kits

A comprehensive first aid kit is a must-have. It should include bandages, antiseptics, gauze, medical tape, scissors, tweezers, and gloves. Additionally, consider including items like a digital thermometer, a blood pressure monitor, and an emergency medical guide.

Medications

Stock up on over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, antihistamines, antacids, and cold remedies. If you or a family member requires prescription medications, speak to your doctor about obtaining an extra supply for emergencies. Be mindful of expiration dates and rotate your stock as needed.

Hygiene Products

Maintaining hygiene during an emergency is vital to prevent illness. Store items like soap, hand sanitiser, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes. Disposable gloves and masks are also essential, especially in scenarios involving pandemics.

Tools and Equipment: Prepared for Anything

Multi-Tools and Knives

A good multi-tool can be invaluable, providing you with various functionalities in one compact device. A sturdy knife is essential for preparing food, cutting materials, and even self-defense.

Fire Starters

Having multiple ways to start a fire is crucial. Stockpile matches, lighters, and fire starters like magnesium strips or waterproof tinder. Fire is necessary for cooking, warmth, and signalling for help.

Shelter and Warmth

Emergency blankets, tarps, and sleeping bags are essential for warmth and shelter. Ensure you have adequate clothing and blankets to prevent hypothermia.

Communication Devices

In an emergency, staying informed and in touch with loved ones is vital. Hand-crank or battery-operated radios can keep you updated on weather conditions and emergency broadcasts. Walkie-talkies and satellite phones are useful for communication when cellular networks are down, which is highly likely.

Other Critical Supplies

Lighting

Flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps with extra batteries or rechargeable options are necessary for visibility during power outages. Solar-powered lights can also be beneficial.

Fuel and Power

Store fuel for generators, cooking stoves, and heaters. Solar chargers and power banks can keep your electronic devices operational. Having a backup power source is critical for running essential appliances and medical equipment.

Sanitation

Items such as portable toilets, heavy-duty trash bags, and disinfectants are necessary to maintain sanitation. Proper waste disposal prevents the spread of disease and keeps your living area habitable.

Building a Sustainable Stockpile

Inventory Management

Keep an inventory of your stockpile, noting quantities and expiration dates. Regularly check and update your supplies to ensure everything is in good condition and replace any expired or damaged items.

Budgeting and Buying

Stockpiling doesn’t have to be done all at once. Build your stockpile gradually, buying a few extra items each time you shop. Look for sales, and buy in bulk to save money. We run specials every now and then. Consider subscribing to our newsletter to be the first to know about these deals.

Education and Skills

Beyond stockpiling, acquiring skills like gardening, hunting, and food preservation can enhance your preparedness. Knowing how to grow your own food or purify water can be invaluable in long-term survival situations.

Community and Networking

Building a Network

Connect with others in your community to share knowledge, resources, and support. Join local or online groups where you can learn from experienced individuals and stay informed about potential threats and solutions.

Community Involvement

Engage in community preparedness initiatives and encourage your neighbours to stockpile essentials. A well-prepared community is more resilient and can provide mutual aid during emergencies. TIP: Consider combining your food requirements with a group of friends and/or family members to take advantage of our larger Emergency Food Kits to save dramatically on your costs.

In Conclusion

Stockpiling essentials is a critical aspect of emergency preparedness, ensuring that you and your family can weather any storm. By focusing on food, water, medical supplies, and essential tools, you can build a robust stockpile that meets your needs. Remember, preparedness is not a one-time task but an ongoing process of assessing, updating, and refining your supplies and skills. Stay informed, stay connected, and stay prepared.

If you are unsure or need further information or assistance, CONTACT US, we'd be happy to have a chat.

Stay prepared. Stay safe!