Prepography
The Art & Study of Self-Reliance
Top 10 Preparedness Uses of WD-40 (2,105)
Snake Eater – How to Field Dress a Snake (660)
Prepping with Garage Sales (647)
OCOKA – A Key Survival Acronym (638)
Fan of the Ammo Can – Top 10 Uses (595)
Top 10 Preparedness Uses of Mineral Oil (572)
Top 10 Initial Steps to Preparation (504)
Don’t Be ‘That Prepper Guy’ (419)
Prepper SALUTE Report – An Observation and Reporting Tool (360)
Physical Security and the Forms of Protection (304)
Situational Awareness – An Introduction (271)
Top 10 Preparedness Uses of Diatomaceous Earth (250)
Backwards Planning for Prepping and Life
Today’s discussion is on backwards planning and while the term ‘backwards planning’ may not be familiar to you… you are likely familiar with this common sense technique for ‘time on target’ or time sequence planning. Backwards planning is the Army’s term for this technique and like many aspects of common sense the Army has a formal method for teaching this technique to leaders and future leaders. Backwards planning is an important skill for anyone to know but is especially important for the prepper.
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OCOKA – A Key Survival Acronym
Every infantryman and Army leader knows the acronym OCOKA, pronounced OH-coke-A. It’s a mnemonic that helps soldiers survive on the battlefield and dominate the enemy by evaluating their terrain. OCOKA is also a key survival acronym for preppers and survivalists. You should use OCOKA to evaluate the terrain around your workplace and home (and your retreat if you have one) but you should also use it to evaluate temporary locations or positions you occupy even for a few minutes if you live or are operating in a degraded security environment. Today’s article will introduce some concepts that we will return to in more detail in future articles.
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Blood Agents – Chemical Warfare Agents
Andrew’s Note: Today’s discussion on Blood Agents, also known as Cyanogen Agents is from U.S. Army Field Manual FM 4-25.11, First Aid (Approved for Public Release). If you don’t think there’s any chance you’ll ever encounter a blood agent then think again. There are a number of commercial and industrial uses for these agents in addition to their use by foreign governments in chemical warfare. The most frightening use of these agents is by criminal or terrorist groups against an unprepared populace.
Cyanogen agents interfere with proper oxygen utilization in the body. Hydrogen cyanide (AC) and cyanogen chloride (CK) are the primary agents in this group.
Protective Measures Continue reading
Book Review: American Sniper by Chris Kyle
I recently finished the book American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History by Chris Kyle, Scott McEwen and Jim DeFelice. Kyle’s wife Taya wasn’t credited but also contributed significantly to the book.
When I bought the book I expected it to be an account of the weapons and tactics that led Chief Petty Office Chris Kyle of S.E.A.L. Team 3 to become the most ‘lethal’ U.S. sniper in history surpassing the legendary Marine Carlos Hathcock’s Vietnam era record by over 50%. I expected Kyle’s book to be very similar to Hathcock’s Carlos Hathcock: Marine Sniper : War Stories And Tactical Tips From The Master Sniper which is also a great read…but what I ended up with was a love story. Don’t get me wrong, Kyle’s book has lots of war stories and countless humorous anecdotes of his life as a Navy S.E.A.L., but he didn’t focus nearly as much on the mechanics of shooting as he did on the decisions, situations and loves that led him placed him in the positions that led to his lethal record.
I love a good military autobiography and the psychological makeup of snipers makes their stories particularly compelling. As I mentioned above I’ve read Hathcock’s book as well as the autobiography of Vassili Zaitsev, NOTES OF A RUSSIAN SNIPER
Kyle told the story of his life, his S.E.A.L training, peacetime duty, and his four tours of duty in Iraq (including his contributions to the Second Battle of Falluja, the Battle of Ramadi, as well as various incursions into Sadr City) interspersed with the story of and the conflicts between his three great loves.
Love of Profession Continue reading
Claymore on Maintaining Direction – Today’s Quote
FRONT TOWARD ENEMY
Inscription on the business end of the M18A1 Claymore Mine
Kyle on Rules of Engagement – Today’s Quote
The rules are drawn up by lawyers who are trying to protect the admirals and generals from the politicians; they’re not written by people who are worried about the guys on the ground getting shot.
American Sniper author and SEAL Chris Kyle
Andrew’s Note: Rules of Engagement specify what actions (offensive, defensive, and other) service members can and can’t take in a theater of operations.
Vital Body Functions for First Aid
Andrew’s Note: Today we’re providing a lesson from FM 4-25.11 First Aid (Approved For Public Release) on understanding vital body functions for first aid.
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Apply a Tourniquet
Andrew’s Note: Today we’re providing a lesson from the Army’s Combat Lifesaver Course (ISO871 Edition C Approved For Public Release) on how to properly apply a tourniquet. Before we get started let me be perfectly clear…this is a refresher for those that have been trained in the proper use of a tourniquet and a gentle prod for those who haven’t received any training to seek training through a first aid or wilderness medicine course.
Over the years the use of a tourniquet in first aid situations has fallen into and out of favor. Currently the military medical community is promoting the proper use of tourniquets as an important lifesaving skill and the incredible wound survival rates in our current and recent conflicts are based in part on the training and proper use of this lifesaving technique. That said…never use a tourniquet unless the life or the limb is in danger…and all other bleeding control measures (elevation, direct pressure and pressure dressing) have failed or aren’t suitable. Additionally, seek qualified medical care IMMEDIATELY if you have to apply a tourniquet.
This lesson teaches how to apply the Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) but similar techniques can be applied to the much simpler and more reasonably priced Tourni-Kwik-4 (TK-4). I own and like both the CAT and the TK-4 but the CAT runs about $28.00 each and the TK-4 runs just $5.50. Both of these tourniquets can be applied one handed which is very important for self aid. The TK-4 is the one that rides with me every day in the car…accessible from the drivers seat…just in case…
APPLY A TOURNIQUET
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Thatcher on Superpower – Today’s Quote
America today is the only global superpower…. Only America has the reach and means to deal with Osama bin Laden or Saddam Hussein or the other wicked psychopaths who will sooner or later step into their shoes.
Former U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher
Andrew’s Note: Been there, done that!
Knots a Prepper Should Know
Andrew’s Note: A prepper buddy of mine has been experimenting with and teaching himself knots recently…got me to thinking about what basic knots a prepper should know and as I do for many prepper skills…I went to look for military wisdom on the subject that I could apply to the art and study of preparedness…Prepography. The following information is from TC 21-3 Soldier’s Handbook for Individual Operations and Survival in Cold Weather Areas (Approved for Public Release).
USEFUL KNOTS
A rope is only a limp coil of hemp or nylon. It is useful only when you are able to attach it to itself or another object. The six basic knots described below will fit all your needs for tying rope together or onto equipment or personnel.
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Psychological First Aid
Andrew’s Note: I had an old First Sergeant who came up as a Psychological Warfare specialist…he was fond of saying “psychological warfare…because physical wounds heal!” All messing with people’s head aside… there is such a thing as a psychological wound and I’ve seen some of the toughest people I’ve met affected by traumatic experiences. If you or a loved one are subjected to a traumatic experience, paralized by fear, depressed or temporarily shut down by excessive stress… you should know how to provide psychological first aid. Today’s lesson is from Army Field Manual FM-4.25.11 (Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited) First Aid and deals with psychological first aid:
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Hagel on the 82nd Airborne – Today’s Quote
You can’t just drop the 82nd Airborne into Baghdad and it will all be over.
Former Senator Chuck Hagel
Andrew’s Note: Let’s hope that if Mr. Hagel becomes Secretary of Defense that he’s better briefed on just how Bad A** the only Airborne Division in the Free World is!
The Watch Method of Field Expedient Direction Finding
Andrew’s Note: Today we present another lesson from our Military Pedagogy series. This discussion, from FM 21-76, the U.S. Army Survival Manual [Approved For Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited] is on using the Watch Method of Field Expedient Direction Finding.
In a survival situation, you will be extremely fortunate if you happen to have a map and compass. If you do have these two pieces of equipment, you will most likely be able to move toward help. If you are not proficient in using a map and compass, you must take the steps to gain this skill.
There are several methods by which you can determine direction by using the sun and the stars. These methods, however, will give you only a general direction. You can come up with a more nearly true direction if you know the terrain of the territory or country.
You must learn all you can about the terrain of the country or territory to which you or your unit may be sent, especially any prominent features or landmarks. This knowledge of the terrain together with using the methods explained below will let you come up with fairly true directions to help you navigate.
The Watch Method
You can also determine direction using a common or analog watch–one that has hands.
Shadow Tip Method – Field Expedient Direction Finding
Andrew’s Note: Today we present another lesson from our Military Pedagogy series. This discussion, from FM 21-76, the U.S. Army Survival Manual [Approved For Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited] is on using the Shadow Tip Method of Field Expedient Direction Finding.
In a survival situation, you will be extremely fortunate if you happen to have a map and compass. If you do have these two pieces of equipment, you will most likely be able to move toward help. If you are not proficient in using a map and compass, you must take the steps to gain this skill.
There are several methods by which you can determine direction by using the sun and the stars. These methods, however, will give you only a general direction. You can come up with a more nearly true direction if you know the terrain of the territory or country.
You must learn all you can about the terrain of the country or territory to which you or your unit may be sent, especially any prominent features or landmarks. This knowledge of the terrain together with using the methods explained below will let you come up with fairly true directions to help you navigate.
USING THE SUN AND SHADOWS
Using a Signal Mirror
Andrew’s Note: Today we present another lesson from our Military Pedagogy series. This discussion, from FM 21-76, the U.S. Army Survival Manual [Approved For Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited] is on using a Signal Mirror
Mirrors or Shiny Objects
On a sunny day, a mirror is your best signaling device. If you don’t have a mirror, polish your canteen cup, your belt buckle, or a similar object that will reflect the sun’s rays. Direct the flashes in one area so that they are secure from enemy observation. Practice using a mirror or shiny object for signaling now; do not wait until you need it. If you have an MK-3 signal mirror[Andrew's Note: similar to many of the camping and survival mirrors sold in the civilian marketplace], follow the instructions on its back (Figure 19-3).
Wear the signal mirror on a cord or chain around your neck so that it is ready for immediate use. However, be sure the glass side is against your body so that it will not flash; the enemy can see the flash.
CAUTION
- Do not flash a signal mirror rapidly because a pilot may mistake the flashes for enemy fire.
- Do not direct the beam in the aircraft’s cockpit for more than a few seconds as it may blind the pilot.
Haze, ground fog, and mirages may make it hard for a pilot to spot signals from a flashing object. So, if possible, get to the highest point in your area when signaling. If you can’t determine the aircraft’s location, flash your signal in the direction of the aircraft noise.
Note: Pilots have reported seeing mirror flashes up to 160 kilometers [99 miles] away under ideal conditions.
Figures 19-4 and 19-5 show methods of aiming a signal mirror for signaling.
Andrew’s Note: If you’re using a field expedient (makeshift) reflector you can aim it more easily by shining the reflection first on your hand (or between two fingers like in Figure 19-4) held out in front of you and move it towards the aircraft until you transfer the reflection to the aircraft.
Emergency Kits From Ready Army
Andrew’s Note: The following information on Emergency Kits is from the Ready Army Website. Ready Army is an organization almost like the Army’s own little FEMA. I thought you might enjoy a military take on a Family Emergency Kit. Enjoy Emergency Kits from Ready Army.
All personnel should maintain a basic level of preparedness for all potential hazards.
You are encouraged to get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan and be informed about what might happen.
EMERGENCY KITS
To prepare your family for an emergency, assemble one or more emergency kits that include enough supplies for at least three days. Think of items that have multiple uses and are long lasting. Keep a kit prepared at home and consider also having kits in your car, at work and a portable version in your home ready to take with you.
These kits will enable you and your family to respond to an emergency more quickly. Your various emergency kits will be useful whether you have to shelter in place or evacuate.
What to Put in Your Basic Home Kit Continue reading
Posse Comitatus on Army Enforcing Laws – Today’s Quote
…it shall not be lawful to employ any part of the Army of the United States… for the purpose of executing the laws, except on such cases and under such circumstances as such employment of said force may be expressly authorized by the Constitution or by any act of Congress…
Posse Comitatus Act of 1878
Elizabeth I on Deterrence – Today’s Quote
God has given such brave soldiers to this Crown that, if they do not frighten our neighbours, at least they prevent us from being frightened by them.
Queen Elizabeth I
Chemical Attack Survival Skills
Andrew’s Note: There’s been a lot of discussion in the news lately of Syria readying munitions from it’s chemical weapons stockpile and I’ve received a few questions about chemical weapons in general. There’s a good reason chemical weapons are vilified and considered a weapon of mass destruction but a chemical environment is survivable. Much of this article discusses survival skills when faced with military grade chemical weapons, you are unlikely to encounter such weapons in the U.S. but the detection and avoidance of a chemical environment could save your life in the event of a terrorist attack similar to the Sarin attack on the Tokyo Subway by Aum Shinrikyo on March 20, 1995. The good news is that military grade chemical munitions have a lethality difficult for terrorists to duplicate. Here’s Chemical Attack Survival Skills which has been taken directly from FM 21-76, the U.S. Army Survival Manual [Approved For Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited]. For additional information check out the Department of Homeland Security’s Chemical Attack Fact Sheet and don’t forget to seek immediate medical attention if you think you’ve been exposed. Continue reading
Wound Care for Specific Types of Wounds
Andrew’s Note: Today we present the final article in this week’s series on Wound Care from our Military Pedagogy series. These discussions, are from U.S. Army Subcourse MD0576, Wound Care [Approved For Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited]. Today’s article discusses Wound Care for Specific Types of Wounds. It’s important to note that military first aid and field medicine focuses almost entirely on stabilizing patients and moving them rapidly to the rear for further treatment. Needless to say, seek professional medical care immediately in the event of illness or injury and take action yourself only if you have been properly trained.
Abrasion
(1) Description. Friction or scraping causes an abraded wound or an abrasion. This type of wound is superficial. The outer layers of skin or mucous membrane have been damaged or scraped off. A person falling on his knees on a sidewalk will suffer an abrasion.
(2) Treatment. Treat as follows:
(a) Irrigate the wound as previously stated.
(b) Apply antibiotic ointment such as bacitracin
(c) Cover the wound with a dry, sterile dressing.
Contusion
(1) Description. A contusion or contused wound occurs as a result of a blow from a blunt instrument, such as a hammer. There is no break in the skin.
(2) Treatment. First apply cold compresses for 12 hours. Pad the affected area and wrap an ace bandage
Puncture/Perforation Continue reading
