Home Safety

Bespoke Emergency Readiness Kits + Training & Events Pop-Up

This is a guest post by Ori.

In the past 12 months I attended two SANS training events as a Work Study participant and decided to write this post based on my observations.

SANS Institute is the biggest player in information security education field with the best and brightest instructors and unmatched content quality. This all comes with a price, $6,000+ per class which doesn’t include Certification attempt, practice tests or OnDemand course-ware. (Not all classes have certifications by the way.)

Here are some tips for future attendees so you get the most out of your experience:

Laptop

A working laptop is a *MUST* and is what can make or break a great experience. Make sure you have a laptop powerful enough to run at least 2 virtual machines simultaneously. A minimum of 8GB memory should be sufficient for most classes. If you have a clunker that can leave you on the side of the road half way through the week, don’t risk it and get yourself a new/used device. You can also ask your employer/friends for a loaner device. (What’s another $500 when you’re already dropping $6K on a class?)

• Don’t forget your power adapters.
• Bring empty USB sticks in case you need to transfer files between computers.
• Network cables (usually not needed but you can never be too prepared).
• SANS exclusively uses VMWare(Player, Workstation, Fusion) so make sure you have it installed and configured properly before you arrive at the training facility. Virtualbox can be used most of the time but the support you receive will be limited. This part is very important, do not skip this step.
• Learn how virtual networking works, such as Bridged vs. NAT configurations.
• If you feel uneasy about hopping on the Wi-Fi at the facility utilize a VPN service.

Certification

For those of you who are taking a class that comes with a certification, if you are planning to get certified you have 4 months before time runs up. GIAC certification exams are mostly open book so start creating your exam index while you’re in the classroom. As the instructor is reading through the slides throughout the day, open up your favorite spreadsheet application and start taking notes. Make a 3 column sheet that goes like:

If you purchased the certification attempt it will show up in your account dashboard within a week once your class is over, make sure to complete your index, head over to the GIAC website and take your first practice test. Look for spots in your index where you can improve upon based on the questions you encountered in the first practice test. Once index is updated then take your second practice test. Your score should improve since your index is much better now. Once you complete the second practice exam feel free to schedule the real exam. These exams are proctored therefore you need to find a location near where you live, and they have limited spots! Register early, register often!

Instructors

Research the instructors who teach the class you are planning to attend. Not all of them deliver the content the same way, certain ones may have more expertise in the subject matter or just simply be better presenters/teachers. This can greatly effect how much you get out of the class, so do your research.

Netwars

Netwars is a phenomenal experience. If you can afford it make sure to purchase access to this 2 day after hours Capture the Flag event at your training location. This CTF is different than the one taking place on the last day of your classes.

Clothing

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Classrooms are usually in large ballrooms in hotels/convention centers. Temperature in the rooms can vary significantly throughout the day. Dress in layers so you can react to room temperature changes accordingly.

Evaluations

Fill out the daily evals handed to you so that your feedback can be considered for making future improvements/adjustments to the classes. It may feel like overkill but the feedback from individuals are incredibly important, otherwise SANS would have no idea how they are doing or how their instructors are holding up.

Colleagues

Meet your neighbors in classroom, strike a conversation and you will be amazed to hear the stories of people from all walks of life and all levels of experience. They will also likely to be your teammates at the end of the week if there is a Capture The Flag (CTF) event on the last day of your class.

Ask Questions

Ask questions to your instructor, if you have a lot of questions ask some of them during the breaks. If you are feeling like most of the topics are flying over your head, then go to the event management office and ask for recommendations on what other classes you could switch to that are being offered at the same location. This is a good idea even though you’d be missing the very beginning of the class you’re switching, The alternative is wasting a ton of money for a class you’d be lost in for 6 days.

Food/Drink

Keep hydrated, make sure to snack and keep your brain sharp.

Keep In Touch

Exchange business cards, emails with people and stay in touch. Just because the class is over learning doesn’t stop, stay engaged.

~Ori
@_BalthazarBratt

 

* @hacksforpancakes (Lesley Carhart) has an amazing guide on how to prepare for GIAC certifications on her blog.

Something that a lot of people have to deal with when they first start out homesteading is getting over being squeamish. I have never really had a hard time with this one because I grew up around a lot of … Continued

Don’t make the simple mistake most people make when they follow the “Two is one and one is none” principle. By looking at survival a little differently, you can make the right choices in your gear.

You’re reading The ‘Two is one and one is none’ fallacy, originally posted at Graywolf Survival – Emergency preparedness from a Counterintelligence Agent by Graywolf.

Do you like camping with your family or loved one, but don’t like setting up the tent? If so, you can minimize your hassle by using instant pop up camping tent. When you are camping all alone, you can take the risk of setting a tent quickly. On the contrary, it kills time when you are camping with the family or loved one.

Most people like to spend some quality time when they are heading out with their loved one. Thus, they don’t want to spend half a day setting up a tent. For those people, the manufacturer brings instant pop up camping tents for couple or families. In short, the instant tent idea is perfect for enjoying outdoor properly. 

OutdoorLifestyleExpert.com

If you are new here, then you may wonder what instant pop up tents are. Or what is the function of these tents? What to consider while choosing one? A whole lot of questions comes in mind, right? No worries, we’ll clarify all these queries. All you need to do is to read our article prudently. Let’s get started!

What Is An Instant Pop Up Tent?

Instant pop up camping tent is basically a ready-to-go tent used for camping. It is the most accessible tent which takes only a few minutes to set up. This tent comes with an integrated pole or single frame design that can collapse faster. The rest part stays attached to the body of the tent. 

Instant pop up tent takes one person to unfold the tent, spread the poles after then lock it in place. All you need to do is to unpack the tent and place it on the ground. It will open automatically, and everything will be all-set within 60 seconds. 

Why Invest In an Instant Pop Tent?

Well, if you are one of those who enjoy the outdoors with family but hates installing the tent. It is worth to invest in an instant pop up tent. These tents are becoming popular among camper due to its easy setup. You get more time to enjoy camping with your loved one. Here are some points that explain the reason for investing in an instant pop up tent. 

• You can quickly set up the tent.
• Similarly, it is easy to take down.
• These tents require less space in a storage bag.
• Perfect for kids as it doesn’t require tent stakes or poles.
• In the case of wind, you can use additional pegs to fix the tent to the ground.

What To Consider While Choosing An Instant Pop Up Tent? 

Indeed, instant pop up tents is an excellent option for a couple or families and best as a backup tent. If you are heading toward the market for purchasing one, then stop, here are few things you should consider;

Ease of Setup

The word “Pop up” says it all. These tents highlight the feature set up easily and quickly. It employs numerous mechanisms and technologies to enable the easy setup. Most pop up tent uses a hydraulic system which let it open within a few seconds. So, the first thing you should keep in mind is its ease of setup. 

Size

The size of the pop-up tent is another crucial factor that you should consider. It depends on the number of occupants. Most tents on the market can accommodate 1 to 4 person. So, in case you are heading with a full family, then you may need more than one. 

There are lots of things that are related to the size, for example, setting up and tearing down functionality. It also determines the storage and portability. Smaller units are best for backpacking trips.

Weight

Weight of pop up tents also plays a vital role in camping. Heavy tents are relatively stronger, and they can endure strong winds. Conversely, lightweight pop up tents is much more expansive. So, choose according to your needs.

Weather Shield

Usually, pop up tents are lighter compared to traditional ones. It may not withstand heavy wind or rain like others. In case you are camping in rainy or windy days, some units can withstand weather context without any extra gear. 

Ventilation

Instant pop up tent with poor ventilation and stifling interior may ruin your comfort. So, make sure it has proper ventilation. Like, some pop-up tent has a window and a large door to enhance airflow. Excellent ventilation also increases tent stability by minimizing the effect of disruptive exterior wind. 

Durability and Strength

Most pop up tents are made with nylon or polyester, which makes it sturdy and light as well. It has a UV coating to protect against sun rays that mean it can last for long. The most tent has Ripstop feature for making it resistant to tearing and ripping. Also, you can go with fire-resistant tents for use in an emergency. 

Design

The pop-up tent comes in various designs along with different functionality. Like, dome-shaped tents are best for use in inclement weather. Tube-shaped tents are perfect for a large number of peoples. Likewise, backpacking tents are suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. As you are camping with family, you may go with tube-shaped tents. 

Any Drawbacks? 

Even the moon has spots, then why not for instant pop up tents? Let’s know more about them.

• Although you can use pegs for making it stable, still it provides limited benefits in extreme weather conditions.
• It is quite challenging to move when you are inside the tent for inadequate headroom. That’s why people often use it for sitting in and sleeping.
• Pop up tents also has narrow entrances, screen rooms, and other convenient features. 

Maintenance and Safety Tips

• Select a suitable ground for setting to prevent damages. 
• Don’t forget to cover the ground using a cloth to provide abrasion protection. 
• Make sure to use the zipper carefully for entry and exit to prevent from getting stuck.
• Try to keep foodstuff away from the tent to keep critters away.
• Avoid using a sharp object which may prick or tear the tent.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, by now on you are well aware of instant pop up camping tent. We tried to include every single detail since you are heading out with your family. Undeniably, instant pop up tents is a great addition for beginners, kids, couples, or families. It allows you to enjoy every single moment by doing recreational things.Therefore, the search for easy to set up tents is over, pick one, and enjoy your next trip!

 

The European long-distance path E8 continues through Great Britain as the Transpennine Way. When I had a close look at this trail preparing this trip I discovered that this is not a very scenic route. Always close to civilization and mostly on concrete. Therefore I decided to hike Wainwright’s Coast to Coast instead which is a bit further north but the exact same length. Right from the start this turned out to be the right decision. After a hearty  English breakfast in a traditional B&B I started with a walk along spectacular coastline – alas in rainy weather. The couple in the picture could not believe that I was camping: “Your backpack is so much smaller than ours and we don’t camp!” Well, they had not heard about ultralight backpacking yet.

This mostly unmarked trail then continued through the Lake District, a real gem! Despite a lot of rain this stretch was a real highlight and I could not take enough pictures. Unfortunately, in on of the most beautiful places I got so soaked in a cloud burst that I could hardly take any pictures any more. The touchscreen of my smartphone was wet and I did not have any dry cloth to clean it. Plus my fingers were so wet and frozen … It was still a wonderful day despite the fact that I had to put on soaking wet and cold clothes the following morning. I rewarded myself with a breakfast of champions outside the little supermarket in Grasmere and ate an entire package of chocolate trifle.

Idyllic campsite with unexpected visitors

One night I arrived at a spectacular lake with no one else around. Apparantly this was a popular campsite and as wild camping is usually tolerated in this National Park I set up my tent at this fantastic site despite the fact that there was goose shit all around. I soon regretted this: In the middle of the night I heard some crackling noises right outside my tent and I just see some small animal runnig away. Closer inspection revealed that a fox had dragged a bag of nachos and my trash bag out of the front pocket of my backpack! It was too dark to see what had happened to both but in the morning I had to collect empty wrappers and used toilet paper that was lying around. The nachos of course were completely gone … A British friend told me later that something similar had happened to him at the exact same spot.

After a sort of connecting day I was in the Yorkshire Dales National Park and had reached the Pennines. More spectacular scenery, a lot of sheep and cattle – but unfortunately only chocolate brown drinking water that slightly tasted of iron but looked colorwise like peach ice tea. There were a lot of industrial remnants in this area which was a mining centre in the 18th and 19th  century. What looks almost like wilderness now was a busy industrial area once. Coast to Coast (C2C) is a popular trail and I came across several churches that offered drinks and snacks at cost price for hikers and there was even some trail magic boxes along the way. Very welcome in the rainy weather!

Drinking chocolate brown swamp water

One morning I was shocked to discover that my charging cable was gone with my phone only 20% charged up! A horror scenario for me whose smartphone is my backup navigational device. I found it half an hour later when packing 10 metres away. It had fallen out of my backpack when setting up the tent in the dark. I had my one and only rest day on the C2C in Richmond where I had booked myself into a rather posh B&B. The owner’s husband was more than delighted by German native speaker because he had been forced to apply for a German tax number and could not figure out the application form. I ended up spending almost two hours translating and explaining it to him … He rewarded my with a very substantial discount on the room price …

Paragliders in the North York Moors

After another connecting day I arrived at North York Moors National Park where paragliders were taking advantage of the nice weather – which unfortunately turned very bad the next day. In fact so bad, that a lady walking her dog told me that even her dog did not want to go outside this day. I desperately tried to find some kind of accommodation for that night but every place I called was already fully booked. I was so distressed that I even went into a pub and ordered a cup of tea and something to eat. I was the first customer of the day and my backback left a huge puddle on the floor. Eventually I managed to find a room, but the landlady asked me: “When does your luggage arrive?” I had visions of my backpack walking on its own, but she just referred to the fact that most hikers have their luggage transported for them by commercial providers.

The place turned out to be a palace but unfortunately a very dusty one. She only rents out rooms occassionally and therefore the room really smelled as old as the house was. At least weather was a bit better on my last day when I reached the coast at Robin Hood’s Bay. I had just reached the little village when I saw the bus rounding the corner – and even caught it. Therefore my hike on the C2C ended kind of abruptly … Before I left Britain I met up with Colin, an old hiking friend of mine who gave me some new hiking ideas – as if I did not have enough of them already …. Then I had to return to Germany for a brief stint as a best woman at my best friend’s wedding before resuming my hike.

Coast to Coast was the real highlight of this hike and I can highly recommend it!!!! I had hiked across Britain before from John O’Groats to Land’s End and had not liked it a lot. With that experience I did not have high expectations for the Coast to Coast but I was literally overwhelmed by how great it was. One of the big advantages of the C2C is how easy wild camping is!!! It is tolerated in the three national parks and wasn’t a problem in the connecting stretches in between. Although C2C is a popular trail I did not meet a lot of other hikers probably due to the fact that I had started on a Monday and mostly camped wheras most hikers stay in town.

The last stretch through Ireland was on the Wicklow Way, a rather popular Irish hiking trail. There were even Appalachian Trail shelters along the way. Good for me because in one of them I could score an almost full gas canister and batteries (although they turned out to be the worst quality ever!). Some boggy sections even had brand new board walks! By now I had gotten used to Irish weather which meant a faint drizzle every day. No wonder the island is so green. Luckily it never rained hard. Although the area is called Wicklow Mountains it was not very mountainous at all, just rolling hills with more forest than usual. Camping got easier. Biggest highlight of this sections was Glendalough, an old monastery which was now a major tourist attraction. I was a bit overwhelmed by the masses of people, many of them Americans searching for their emmigrant ancestors.

Glendalough in rain and mist

I fled quickly but was happy to meet Andrea and Mike for the last time and have a big celebratory dinner together. We all had steak and loved it! No wonder with all these happy cows on green meadows. I spent two more days in Dublin before taking the ferry over to Britain. This transit day to get to the start of my hike in the UK was more than stressfull. The ferry port in Dublin is so far outside that walking is almost impossible when catching an early morning ferry like me. And there is no bus at that hour which meant I had to take a taxi. Once in Britain there was construction work on the train line and of course everything was delayed. It took me seven hours and cost 125 Euro to cover a distance of 145 km …

Beara Way

I had very much looked forward to hiking in Ireland as I had never been there before. I really liked the country: People were incredibly friendly and everyone was greeting me from their car when I was road walking. Prices were ok and I loved the buttery chocolate croissants! But hiking wise I was a bit disappointed. The Beara Way was nice with its coastal scenery, but the rest of my route through Ireland was ok, but definitely nothing to write home about. Almost 50% of the route were on concrete and there was very little forest. Still, stealth camping was not a big problem as Ireland is not densely populated. I’d say that Ireland is a nice hiking destination for beginners and I might come back one day to hike other trails, but it is not very high on my bucket list now. 

A two-person sofa, minimal furniture and expensive decor is fine for two adults but if you’re thinking of expanding your family then you may need to consider making some changes to your home. There...

The post When Two Becomes Three – Changes To Make To Your Home As Your Family Grows appeared first on The Homestead Survival.

White Child Brutally beaten and hospitalized in Violent Hate Crime on School Bus over a Trump Hat

In yet the latest hate crime ignored by the mainstream media, a white 14-year-old child was brutally beaten by 8 black thugs on his school bus. […]

This Article White Child Brutally beaten and hospitalized in Violent Hate Crime on School Bus over a Trump Hat is an original article from OFFGRID Survival If it is appearing on any other site but OFFGRID Survival, that site does not have our permission to use our copyrighted content!

By Jeff Gurwitch October 29, 2019 Last updated on 10/29/19. In this episode, I sit down with Mike Keenan (retired Navy pilot), who served with me in Afghanistan, to go over the M4A1-type work-gun clone he built in virtually the exact configuration of the customized/modified M4A1 carbine he carried on the ground while supporting SF …