Home Safety

If you’re caught in an earthquake, you may not be able to stay where you’re at. Here’s what you need for a portable earthquake kit bag.

You’re reading How to build an earthquake survival kit, originally posted at Graywolf Survival – Emergency preparedness from a Counterintelligence Agent by Graywolf.

Smart home (or home automation) technology has been around in a serious way since the 90’s, but it was generally reserved for those with big budgets or for the really …

The post 34 Awesome (& Simple) Home Automation Ideas was written and published on 24/7 Home Security.

The Rim Trail from Bright Angel to Hermit’s Rest hike is one of the best-kept secrets on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. The well-maintained and easy to follow Rim Trail winds along the western section of the South Rim, stopping at every marked vista point and making it’s way past dozens of others that aren’t on the map. The hike is flat, away from the crowds, and away from the cars (the road next to it is only open to shuttle buses). And if you get tired at any point, you can just hop on the shuttle bus. If you want to do a Grand Canyon hike that doesn’t include hardcore hiking down into the canyon, but do want a peaceful and spectacular experience on the trail, this hike is for you.

The post South Rim Trail to Hermit’s Rest appeared first on HikingGuy.com.

Source: The New Daily

Security overload leads to apathy. How often do you hear a car alarm go off and roll your eyes hoping the owner would disable the blasted thing before the incoming headache comes a knocking? The primary objection I have to such systems is they work too well. Every week I hear an alarm being triggered […]

This is just the start of the post Security Information Overload: From Panic to Apathy & the Remedy. Continue reading and be sure to let us know what you think in the comments!

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Security Information Overload: From Panic to Apathy & the Remedy, written by Thomas Xavier, was created exclusively for readers of the survival blog More Than Just Surviving.

The following has been contributed by Anonymous Prepper

One of the most discussed topics that I’ve seen over the years is related to starting fires. While some people go as far as learning the bow drill method so they can start one under any circumstances, others say they’re going to use a simple lighter to achieve the same result. It’s pretty funny whenever I see such replies on the survivalist boards.

I’m not going to take sides here, I’d rather do something better and let you know of all the ways to start a fire. This way you can decide for yourself which ones you should pack into your BOB or learn.

#1. Using a Lighter

This is by far the easiest way to start a fire. The vast majority of people go for either Zippo or Bic. (You can follow the debate here).Suffices to say it’s good to have lighters everywhere: inside your car, your survival bags, your pockets, inside the pouch attached to your bike – you name it!

#2. Using Matches

Matches are the next best thing for starting a fire but, just to make sure they work, you should get the waterproof kind. If not, you should at least put them in waterproof containers. Some people like to have a fire starting kit, usually a small waterproof pouch.

#3. Using a Blastmatch

The blastmatch is a very cool device whose beauty consists in the fact that you can use it with only one hand. Very useful in case you get injured and can’t use both of them. Not many preppers consider the likely scenario of them getting injured.

Here’s a video showcasing how to use it:

#4. Using a Ferro Rod

They work when you scrape off some of the rod by means of a sharp striker, thus generating sparks. The actual rod is, in fact, made mostly of iron (along with some other metals) and only has a small percentage of magnesium. Not to be confused with magnesium firestaters.

Here’s a quick youtube video showing how to scrape some tinder and then use a ferro rod to light it:

#5. Using the Flint and Steel Method

The things you use for the flint and steel method are completely different than those used in the ferro rod method. It can be a little confusing, I know.

The steel can be anything, such as piece of a high carbon, while the flint rock is something you should be able to find while bugging out. Quartz ricks will work and they are easy to find along rivers. Good video showing how to find a rock that has quartz and then use it to generate some sparks:

#6. Using a Magnesium Block

IF you have a magnesium block (from Amazon, for example, it’s really cheap), you can use the back of the blade of your knife to scrape it off for 15-20 seconds, then use the same knife to run it along the block and get those shavings to spark using friction.

Quick video on how this works as well as further explanations:

#7. Using Steel Wool and a 9V Battery

This is a lot easier than using flint and steel, magnesium or a ferro rod. The sparks come very quickly, but make sure you keep the two separated inside your backpack to avoid a disaster. All you have to do is touch the steel wool with both ends of the battery and have some tinder ready.

Tip: consider packing devices that use 9V batteries. This way, you won’t have to pack the battery for the sole purpose of starting fires.

#8. Using a Lens

The best lens you can have in your bug out bag is a small magnifying glass. If that’s something you don’t want to pack (some preppers avoid small items such as this one because every ounce counts), you can use other things to achieve the same effect: a transparent plastic bag filled with water, a Fresnel lens (they have them the size of a credit card), or even a block of ice.

The thing that makes the lens work is its focal point. Put it between tinder and the sun in such a way that the rays are focused into a single dot. The smaller the dot, the more likely it will combust.

#9. Using the Bow Drill Method

Wikipedia explains it better but, in essence, this is a last resort means of starting a fire… for when you’ve got no lighter, no steel wool and no Sun to use your magnifying glass. In essence, you need a small bow, a bearing block and a spindle. You can see a video demonstration here:

Final Word

OK, so I didn’t tell you ALL the ways to start a fire, but do you really need to know them? I doubt you’ll use potassium permanganate during your bug out. Stick to 2, 3 or even 4 from the ones above and you’ll be more than prepared to start a fire than anyone.

And if you want to take things further, why not assemble a fire starting kit for your BOB? Keep everything related to fire starting (including tinder) inside a single MOLLE pouch. You’ll have everything in one place and, if need be, you can give it to someone else to carry it for you. If you can get one that has MOLLE webbing, you’ll be able to strap it to a backpack that’s compatible (that has the same webbing).

On this day in 1979, in an attempt to stabilize the turbulent political situation in Afghanistan, the Soviet Union sent 75,000 troops to enforce the installation of Babrak Karmal as the new leader of the nation. The new government and the imposing Soviet presence, however, had little success in putting down anti-government rebels. Thus began nearly 10 years of an agonizing, destructive, and ultimately fruitless Soviet military intervention in Afghanistan. Death by a thousand cuts. — Cabela’s (one of our affiliate advertisers) has started their annual clearance sale, with some items reduced 50%. That sale ends on January 8, 2020. …

The post Preparedness Notes for Friday — December 27, 2019 appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

It’s amazing the difference eight years can make to a place. Last time I looked, North Vancouver was a sleepy spot. The waterfront was pretty but I’d never have called it vibrant. And after 8 PM there was never a whole lot to do.

That’s completely changed with the addition of The Shipyards District at the bottom of Lower Lonsdale. Now I’d recommend you try and fit in as many of these things to do in North Vancouver as you can. It’s a destination in its own right.

Spend a few hours exploring Capilano Suspension Bridge Park 

The 27 acre Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers visitors three unique ways of interacting with the coastal forest – via the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a Cliffwalk and a Treetops Adventure. I was leery before coming thinking this was just going to be one giant tourist trap. Was I ever wrong! Certainly the company is in business to make money – but at the same time they deliver outstanding experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

There’s a high fun factor, it’s family-friendly and the few hours I spent here far exceeded my expectations. Allow time to do all activities and to walk through the forest.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge

Walk and sway 137 metres (450) feet along the suspension bridge, 70 metres (230 feet) above the Capilano River. Go early or late in the day if you want to avoid any line-ups. From the bridge you may see bald eagles feasting on fish in the river below.

The Cliffwalk at Capilano 

In operation since 2011, the Cliffwalk is a series of very narrow cantilevered bridges that hug a granite cliff, 110 feet above the Capilano River. There are lots of viewing platforms so people can pass – and you can get that Instagram-worthy shot. 

Interestingly only 16 anchors hold the catwalk in place – but they’ve been drilled by hand into the cliff with some going as deep as 6 metres (19 feet). To reinforce them over half a kilometre of steel rods were drilled into the cliff face.

The bottom line – this is a well-built structure that is not going anywhere – though if you’re deathly afraid of heights don’t look down.

Don’t miss the Treetops Adventure – one of the really fun things to do in North Vancouver

If you’re looking for a “squirrel’s eye view of a coastal forest” do the Treetops Adventure on the far side of the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Seven suspension bridges attached to eight monster – sized 250 year old Douglas fir trees weave through the forest. Beside each tree are viewing platforms – attached to the tree in such a way that nails and bolts aren’t required. In fact the platforms can move as the trees grow.

Some of the bridges are up to 110 feet above the forest floor so take your time if you’re fearful of heights. It’s a whole lot of fun and one of the top things to do in North Vancouver.

Don’t miss a walk through the forest looking for sights like the one in the photo below.

Go kayaking out of Deep Cove

From March to September I used to paddle twice a week with my Seventh Wave dragonboat team out of Deep Cove. Returning to the area was bittersweet. It made me realize just how much I miss the ease of getting out onto the water. The Glenmore Reservoir in Calgary doesn’t offer anywhere near as pretty a backdrop.

I spent a few hours one morning kayaking with a guide from the Deep Cove Kayak Centre. Together we paddled across Indian Arm to the Twin Islands – a distance of roughly five kilometres. It was as beautiful a day as you could ever get in November – with close to summer-like temperatures, calm waters and picture-perfect mountains. 

While we just did an out and back paddle, you can rent kayaks and SUPs from Deep Cove Kayak and in fact paddle all the way down Indian Arm and camp for the night. There are three campgrounds and a trip around here sure is a lovely way to appreciate the coastal mountain scenery.

In winter Deep Cove Kayak is closed for rentals but they do offer winter kayaking tours.

Check out the Pier at the Shipyards District Lower Lonsdale – one of the top things to do in North Vancouver

Walk out the 700 foot length of the Burrard Dry Dock Pier in Lower Lonsdale to get superlative 360 degree views of downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park and North Vancouver. If you go first thing in the the morning you might have it to yourself. On a hot summer day, you’ll have lots of company.

Visit the Polygon Gallery

The Polygon Gallery has been around for over 40 years though for most of its life it went by the name Presentation House Gallery with digs at Third and Chesterfield. The new gallery space at the bottom of Lower Lonsdale is stunning. Apart from the airy interior space, I especially like the wave-like action of the water running continuously in front of the gallery and the killer view from the second floor.

The gallery has a reputation as one of “the most adventurous public art institutions.” They have a big focus on photography and have in the past featured works by Ansel Adams. You can also expect to see thought provoking installations like the one pictured below.

Entrance is by donation. Exhibition tours are held every Saturday at 2 PM. An onsite cafe is coming soon.

Peer over the edge of the Cleveland Dam – one of the free things to do in North Vancouver

The Cleveland Dam is a popular FREE tourist attraction that fits well with a visit to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The concrete dam stands 91 metres tall at the head of the Capilano River. It’s an awe-inspiring sight to say the least – and again one of the places I never visited when I lived here.

It’s definitely worth a half hour of your time. Be sure to take the trail that gives you a view of the dam from below. And then if you’re feeling energetic and adventurous head out for a hike on a section of the Baden Powell trail. 

Capilano Lake or reservoir as it is also called, is a beautiful looking lake but it’s completely off limits to the public. The photo I took below was through the wire fence.

Catch a sunrise and a sunset

One of the things I really miss about Vancouver is the sunsets. It’s not like we don’t get them in Calgary, but I rarely get a good one with the vivid oranges where I live. It was pretty sweet to be able wander into our hotel room at the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier and catch such a glorious sunset from our balcony.

If you want a pretty sunrise and a coffee, head first for Caffè Artigiano in the Shipyards and then you are literally steps away from The Pier. It’s a perfect place to catch a sunrise.

Nose about the Lonsdale Quay Market

Home to 80 locally owned businesses, the Lonsdale Quay Market sells everything from fresh produce to fish, meat, BC wines, kid’s toys and designer made clothes. You can also grab and go – picking up fresh pastries and a coffee or even a full meal.

Enjoy the café and restaurant scene at The Shipyards

There are lots of places to eat and drink at the Shipyards. Be sure to check out Tap & Barrel – either outside on their seasonal patio with superb views of the Burrard Inlet or in their large dining room. Friendly service along with lots of easy to love meals served up with 36 BC craft beer taps and 16 BC wine taps ensure a memorable outing.

Other places of note include Jamjar Canteen for Lebanese food, Larry’s Market for takeaway food, Lift Breakfast Bakery for fresh pastries through to dinner options and Gusto di Quattro Restaurant for excellent Italian food. The Seaside Hotel and Pinnacle Hotel both have onsite restaurants.

Go hiking in North Vancouver

North Vancouver is literally criss-crossed with hiking trails. I recommend snapping a photo of the trail at the start of your hike so you have something to refer to. Some of the trails get remote in a hurry or take you into tough terrain. Always go prepared with the 10 hiking essentials.

There’s a lot of hiking to be done in Lynn Canyon Park with the hike that includes the Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge one of the most popular. The bridge stretches across a pretty canyon – 50 metres above a river that boasts waterfalls and deep pools. It’s free of charge to walk this suspension bridge.

From the suspension bridge you can access loads of trails in Lynn Canyon Park including 30 Foot Pool – a popular swimming hole in summer and Twin Falls. You can even access the trail to Rice Lake and the Seymour Demonstration Forest.

Other places to hike include Lynn Headwaters Regional Park located at the north end of Lynn Valley Road. In this park I’d personally recommend Lynn Peak, the hike to Norvan Falls and the fabulous hike to Coliseum Mountain if you’re up for a long day.

I have yet to explore the myriad of trails that make up the Lower Seymour Conservation Area or the new Seymour River Suspension Bridge. I understand the climb Quarry Rock near Deep Cove is a good one for the views. And while I have done sections of the 48 kilometre Baden Powell Trail that travels from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove, I haven’t done the whole thing. Put that on your must-hike list too.

Climb the Grouse Grind – one of the hardest things to do in North Vancouver

I highly recommend climbing the Grouse Grind in North Vancouver for its workout qualities and the sense of accomplishment you get at the top – but not for its fun factor. I have probably climbed the Grind over a 100 times and I can’t think of one occasion where I didn’t wish I was on top – when I had just finished the only somewhat flat part of the hike at the bottom. 

If you’ve had a dearth of happy hormones pulsing through your body, do this steep 2.9 kilometre one way hike. It climbs 853 metres or 2,800 feet over that short distance. I measure the climb in my mind against every steep hike I do in the world and there are few like it.

But I and so many others go back time and time again – for the heart-pounding workout, the view from the top and the camaraderie on the trail. Did you know that over 100,000 people climb it a year? I’d suggest early in the morning or on a rainy day if you don’t want someone breathing hard behind you.

Most people ride the SkyTram down. You can buy one way tickets or a season’s pass if you’re likely to be doing it a lot.

The official course record set in 2010 by Sebastian Sales is 25:01. Mere mortals can take up to two hours to do it. The average is somewhere between 1 – 1.5 hours.

Go for a bike ride

Mountain biking is world-renowned on Vancouver’s North Shore. While I love to mountain bike, I’m not much for the gnarly trails. But there is lots of other cycling available in North Vancouver.

One of my personal faves is the Demonstration Forest Road, part of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. Enjoy a 24 kilometre return trip on a paved road with a fish hatchery at the end. It’s also perfect for families – or for people who want to go rollerblading or running.

You can rent an e-bike at Reckless Shipyards in the Shipyard District and head out for a bike ride along the Spirit Trail, a multi-use greenway that runs from Deep Cove to Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. In North Vancouver, the Spirit Trail is 6.5 kilometres long. You can see the map on the City of North Vancouver website.

Visit Grouse Mountain

While I’ve already suggested that you climb the Grouse Grind to the top of Grouse Mountain, I do appreciate that the majority of visitors scale the mountain via the SkyTram. At the top of Grouse Mountain you can enjoy Theatre in the Sky, Eye of the Wind, meals including a fine dining experience, a wildlife refuge, and a host of different outdoor activities depending on the season. 

I love snowshoeing from the top of Grouse Mountain out to Dam Mountain and Thunderbird Ridge. Downhill skiing and snowboarding is great fun as is the ice skating for families. There are ziplines, a sliding zone and a terrain park too. Pick your favourite thing to do and plan to spend the better part of the day at the top of North Vancouver. 

Where to stay in North Vancouver 

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You are so spoiled for choice in North Vancouver with a couple of top-notch hotels in the Shipyard District – both offering superb views.

I stayed in a lovely room with a balcony looking out to the water at The Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier. One of the recent additions that is sure to become a favourite is the Seaside Hotel North Vancouver.

Further reading on things to do in the Greater Vancouver area

• A Day trip from Bowen Island to Vancouver
• An Easy Hike in Lighthouse Park, Vancouver
• A Sea Safari in Howe Sound, British Columbia

Thank you to Tourism Vancouver and Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association. They helped with organizing many of the activities I did on a recent fall weekend but all thoughts and opinions as always are my own.

Click on the photo to bookmark to your Pinterest boards.

 

The post 12 Great Things to Do in North Vancouver, BC appeared first on Hike Bike Travel.

Source: Unite the union

Top 10 Deadly Poisonous Plants You Should Avoid in Garden