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Everything You Need to Know About the 18650 Battery

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What is a 18650?

18650s are in more and more electronics. This post will tell you everything you need to know about 18650 batteries. An 18650 is a lithium ion rechargeable battery. Their proper name is “18650 cell”. The 18650 cell has voltage of 3.7v and has between 1800mAh and 3500mAh (mili-amp-hours). There are two types; protected and unprotected. We absolutely recommend protected 18650 batteries. The average 18650 battery charge time is about 4 hours. Charge time can vary with amperage and voltage of the charger and the battery type.

18650 batteries [Read more…]

How to Put Up a Snow Fence for Less Snow Blowing and Plowing

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A snow fence acts as a barrier to slow the prevailing wind, causing drifting downwind of the fence – instead of in your driveway or walkway. It reduces your need for snow removal, and means less work for you during every snowstorm. You can also use the fence to collect snow to melt where you want it in spring, to fill a pond or watering hole.

snow fence in field with snow drift

When I was a little girl up in northwest Wisconsin, we had a lot of “Big Snow” winters. The snow started early and lasted all winter long. The country roads cut through massive snow banks that my friends and I would build tunnels through. (We always used the buddy system so someone was on the outside to watch for the plow or dig you out if needed.)   [Read more…]

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) – What You Need to Know

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Get the essential information you need to prepare for a nuclear or solar EMP. Learn what an electromagnetic pulse is and how it affects you.

 

Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP) What You Need to Know

The two most likely reasons for an EMP are a nuclear explosion or solar flare. This post discusses the damage an EMP may cause and actions that you can take to prevent or manage the results of the EMP. A large  Electromagnetic Pulse EMP would cause widespread problems. This post is part of our Common Sense Preparedness series, where our goal is to help you be prepared for whatever life throws at you.  [Read more…]

Root Cellars 101- Root Cellar Design, Use and Mistakes to Avoid

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In this article we'll talk about 5 things you must include in a root cellar design, plus 10 tips for fruit and vegetable storage. There's also a printable storage guide for over 30 fruits and veggies, and jump links to additional information at the bottom of the post.

A root cellar is a great low-cost way to store food – not just root vegetables, but other fresh produce, too. They require no energy to use and very little maintenance. You can build in a root cellar when your home is under construction, but it’s also possible to add a root cellar to your basement, or build one outside your home.

root cellar with squash and root vegetables on shelves, canning jars on right [Read more…]

Brightest Flashlight – AAA, AA, Tactical, Keychain and Spotlight

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brightest flashlights sitting on wooden table
These are our recommended brightest, affordable, single battery AA, AAA, 18650, keychain and handheld spotlight flashlights. They are great for a every day carry in a pocket, purse, glove compartment, backpack, first aid kit, or any situation where you need a small, affordable, very bright LED flashlight. These are the brightest flashlight for each type and size of battery. [Read more…]

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