Thursday, August 15, 2024

Prepping On A Budget Dollar Tree Finds * Harvest Creek White Chicken Salad Shelf Stable *

 

                              https://www.harvestcreek.com

Harvest Creek Premium White Chicken Salad at the Dollar Tree for $1.25 also available for a limited time at Aldi (price may vary).  I'm always looking for shelf stable items for my kitchen and towards my preps that are adult and child friendly. As a family of 6 this is always on my mind. I came across Harvest Creek and looked them up. I found they have other flavors as well shown below.

Distributed by Crider, Inc. is a US-based company that manufactures canned and frozen poultry, and other food products. The company is located in Stillmore, Georgia and was incorporated in 1983. Crider, Inc. is a veteran-owned small business that has received federal contracts from the USDA to supply food to low-income populations and Indian reservations. They also supply products to retail, foodservice, school, and institutional customers. 
I'm loving that it is USA made product!!! The packaging is easy to open... just tear and eat. The shelf life date up to 2 years. Their products are gluten free. You can easily add this to any meal. A wonderful addition to any shelf. 

This is an easy grab in a SHTF and adverse weather conditions when you lose electricity for days on end. Great for you bug out bag, boat, office, and car emergency kit.

This would had been a wonderful addition when my husband got caught in a winter storm and all traffic on the highway stood still. It took him over 16 hours to get home for a normal 40 minute drive. Remember to update your car kits according to season my friends. 

Lastly, I had my children taste test it and they all loved it and asked for more. Bonus you can buy these in Bulk just visit their website www.harvestcreek.com  I hope you enjoyed my video review and this more detailed post. Keeping prepping my friends.

Monday, July 1, 2024

Southern Living Old Fashioned Apple Pie

 

     https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/old-fashioned-apple-pie

I was looking through some of my Southern Living Books and decided to share this recipe in honor of Christmas In July! I encourage you to visit their site and read the article. It gives some wonderful insights into options to create this masterpiece. 

Old-Fashioned Apple Pie

This double-crust apple pie is the perfect way to welcome fall.

Active Time:
 
30 mins
Chill Time:
 
2 hrs
Cool Time:
 
1 hr
Total Time:
 
4 hrs 40 mins
Servings:
 
8

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface

  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter or cold vegetable shortening, cut into small pieces

  • 1 tsp. kosher salt

Filling:

  • 9 to 10 tart apples such as Granny Smith or McIntosh (about 4 lbs. total), peeled and thinly sliced

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

  • Dash of kosher salt

  • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Directions

  1. Prepare the Crust:

    Using your fingers, mix together flour, butter, and salt in a large bowl until butter is well incorporated. Gradually sprinkle 2 to 4 tablespoons very cold water into mixture, kneading as you add water, until dough just comes together. (You may not need to add all the water.) Turn dough out onto a lightly floured work surface; knead until it forms a smooth ball, 2 to 3 times. Divide dough in half, and shape into 2 disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap; chill at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

  2. Add dough to pie dish:

    Unwrap 1 chilled dough disk, and place on a lightly floured work surface. Let stand at room temperature until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with flour; roll into a 12-inch circle. Carefully fit dough round into a 9-inch deep-dish glass pie plate, leaving a 1 ½-inch overhang around edges. Refrigerate until ready to use.

  3. Prepare the Filling:

    Preheat oven to 425°F with oven rack in lowest position. Stir together apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until apples are evenly coated. Spoon mixture into prepared piecrust; sprinkle mixture with butter.

  4. Make lattice topping:

    Unwrap remaining chilled pie dough disk, and place on a lightly floured work surface. Let stand at room temperature until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with flour; roll into a 12-inch circle. Cut into 12 (¾-inch-wide) strips. (Discard remaining dough scraps, or use for another purpose.) Arrange strips in a lattice design over Filling; trim strips as needed to meet the bottom Crust overhang. Fold dough edges under, and crimp using your fingers or a fork.

  5. Bake pie:

    Place assembled pie on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (leaving pie in oven); continue baking 45 minutes. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning; continue baking until juices are thick and bubbly, crust is golden brown, and apples are tender when pierced with a long wooden pick, about 30 minutes. Transfer pie to a wire rack, and cool at least 1 hour.

Saturday, June 22, 2024

A Homemakers Summer Days

 

                               A Homemakers Summer

It's that time when the children are off from school. You get to sleep in and slow down. Gears shift from a daily drop off routine to a new home routine. I have boys and they are growing. They stay hungry when going through a growth spurt. That being said all 3 are at my toe asking for food constantly through out the day. I have to laugh because I'm not to sure where it all goes.

I had grandiose plans of doing a long list of changes in the home. They have shifted as the heat has slowed me down. Now our days are greeted with 100 degree weather. The plans we had for day trips have been set to the side. At least till the weather subsides.

There is a constant rumble and noise in my home. Yes, I have boys (gentle smile). When all becomes to still or quiet I look to see what is happening. 

I have found these days are joyful watching my boys grow and interact with one another. Their joy watching them eat a home cooked bake or meal. The smiles and conversations at the dining room table and the boundless questions of a curious mind.

These slow days I have learned to embrace.


Friday, March 29, 2024

Temu Kawaii, Stationary, Crafting, Planner & Diamond Painting Finds Haul!


 Here are some amazing Kawaii inspired items for crafting and  planning Temu (links below). Additionally, I found 2 beautiful Diamond painting kits that would be amazing for a beginner or a person that enjoys diamond painting with not to much free time on their hands. 

You wouldn't how excited I was to receive this package. I literally giggled with joy. I love anything Kawaii themed. I was able to find so many economical finds on Temu. Here on this video (above) you will see many items that are just a couple of dollars or less! Everything in this video is under $30.00!!! All the items I received I can happily report where Awesome! The Diamond Painting kits are great as well. I will be sharing a video on this (below). 

⬇️Download the Temu app to get 💰$100 coupon bundle via the link below:https://temu.to/m/udbixc0lkt8

🎁Use the code【afl11776】at checkout to get an extra 30% off (for new app users) Product Links: 15pcs Textured Paper Aesthetic Scrapbook Paper For Notebook Journaling Junk Journal DIY Art Craft Paper Stationery Supplies $2.99 https://temu.to/m/upnpt0fpj9f 4pcs Cartoon Dog Sticky Notes With 120 Sheets Cute Puppies Memo Messages Stickers Removable Stationery Sticky Notes $1.71 https://temu.to/m/uy814ttcntb Cute Cartoon Ziplock Bag Soft Cute Snack Candy Bag, Handmade Jewelry Dried Flower Small Object Storage Bag (three Styles Random) $2.49 https://temu.to/m/uazfxp54mwx 20pcs Pink Cartoon Cute Kitten Beautiful Day Letter Print Gift Bag - Reusable Storage Bag Home Packaging Bag $2.49 https://temu.to/m/udwh19wro2q 12 Rolls Flower Series Bronzing Washi Tape Journal Book Sticker Tape 1.5cm*2m $3.99 https://temu.to/m/ue2z5z78fcw 5pcs Cute Cartoon Seal Bag, Mini Jewelry Bag, Small Object Storage Bag, Snack Zip Bag, Packaging Bag, Home Decor, Christmas Gift, New Year Gift, Gift For Man, Gift For Woman $1.49 https://temu.to/m/uo9xhpsjnvq 1pc, 3D Cartoon Bear Rabbit PP Gift Bag, Easter Gift Bags, Storage Bag, Birthday, Party Gift Bag, Cute Creative Handbag, Storage Tote Bag, Wedding Baptism Gift Bag, Graduation School Start And Other Campus Activities Gift Bags $1.99 https://temu.to/m/u9kzepqg5ge 30pcs Vintage European Style PET Scrapbook Stickers Set For Journal Album Notebook Aesthetic Decoration Material Self-adhesive Craft Stickers $1.49 https://temu.to/m/uyvki4xwmol 3pcs, 20sheets Cartoon Combination Message Rabbit And Bear Alien N Times Stickers Student Stationery Message Paper Student Stationery Cute Sticky Note, Back To School, School Supplies, School, Sticky Notes, Aesthetic School Supplies, Stationary $0.99 https://temu.to/m/uva88b7ep6f 1pc Colorful Horse Pattern Diamond Painting Kit, DIY 5D Special Shaped Crystal Diamond Partial Diamond Painting Mosaic Crafts, Suitable For Home Wall Decoration Art, Frameless $1.21 https://temu.to/m/utgl25ngko9 1pc Cartoon Animal Combination Sticky Notes Journal Decorative Stickers Cute Stickers Note Book $1.17 https://temu.to/m/u072ka7b9a6 10/5 Pcs 12 * 8.5cm/4.72 * 3.34inch Creative Plan Notebook For Elementary School Cartoon Plan Notebook Elementary School Prize Small Gift Birthday Gift $1.99 https://temu.to/m/u3tbfmkkvhr 1pc Cat Pattern Diamond Painting Kit, DIY 5D Special Shape Crystal Diamond Partial Diamond Painting Mosaic Making Craft, Suitable For Home Wall Decor Art, Frameless $2.7 https://temu.to/m/uoo98f87t6s 3pcs, 20 Sheets Cartoon Combination Sticky Note Message Rabbit Bear Alien N Times Stickers Students Cute Handbook Note Pad Diary Stationery, Back To School, School Supplies, School, Sticky Notes, Aesthetic School Supplies, Stationary $0.99 https://temu.to/m/u8o6917a4br

Temu Jewelry Review Haul! Is It Worth It?


 Temu is an online website that can save you alot of money. Often you can find well crafted name brand dupes from jewelry, purses, tools, Montessori learning, dollhouse miniatures, crafting, prepping and soo much more. 

I have a playlist on my You Tube channel for Temu and all the items I have purchased since 2023. I provide honest reviews on everything. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=014cL3XAVzg&list=PL-5oAtVxljmxuB8PYPbEp6-MmE6AYhhq6

Here are the product links for my video and discount code.

⬇️Download the Temu app via 🔗LINK IN BIO to get 💰$100 coupon bundle 🎁30% off code (afl11776) for new app users (use at checkout) - Shop hundreds of items for under $5 - Free Shipping & Free Returns #temu #temuvday #TemuAffiliateProgram #temuinfluencerprogram Luxury Luminous Quar...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/ukibu95l1ot Elegant 18k Plated R...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uzp1zrvkmn3 1 Strand/3 Strands 5...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/urff10ein3o Women's Luxury Rhine...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uasci0ba5te Elegant Ring Inlaid ...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/u28wmwpimhg Elegant Cocktail Rin...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uif0mjqf1bu Faux Aquamarine Sapp...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/u6ul6x2qrx1 1pc Retro Square Red...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/usetjutfzz3 Vintage Rectangular ...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uzue0qbqsg0

I hope you enjoy!

Sunday, December 3, 2023

Colourpop Mystery Black Friday Box $49.00

Today, you will see my review for the Colourpop Mystery Black Friday Box I recieved. I hope you enjoy the video. 


 

Dollar Tree Has A $1.25 Hydroponic System Available To Grow Food Indoors


 As a homemaker & prepper I am always looking for ways to grow food. I ran across this Hydroponic self watering vase at the Dollar Tree for $1.25 to grow basil. The vase holds everything you need to grow it. Don't like basil no problem you can grow anything in this container system. I may be able to replicate the system myself as well. We should encourage each other to grow food/herbs for our family. 

Diy Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale Kitchen Chair Seat Cushion Tutorial


   In this video you will see a easy Diy Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale kitchen chair cushion tutorial. It provides a quick updated look to a kitchen chair and can be changed out per season. The smallest details can make such a big impact for any Dollhouse Miniature Scene.

Martha Stewart Classic Latkes Recipe

 Classic Latkes

classic latkes
PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND
Prep Time:
55 mins
Total Time:
55 mins
Yield:
24

Potato pancakes make for festive starters at any party. Serve them with toppers like creme fraiche, trout roe, smoked trout, and lingonberry jam.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup potato starch

  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4)

  • 1 medium onion (8 ounces)

  • 2 large eggs, lightly whisked

  • Safflower oil, for frying

  • Flaky salt, for serving

Directions

  1. In a small bowl, stir together potato starch, baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; set aside. Peel potatoes; place in a bowl of cold water. On the large holes of a box grater, grate potatoes and onion. Transfer to a fine sieve lined with cheesecloth and set over a large bowl.

  2. Gather mixture in cheesecloth and squeeze moisture out into bowl. Let stand until a white paste settles to bottom of bowl, about 2 minutes. Remove sieve; pour liquid out of bowl and discard, leaving behind white paste.

  3. Add potato-onion mixture to bowl and sprinkle with baking-powder mixture; toss to coat. Add eggs; stir to combine.

  4. Heat 1/4 inch oil in a large, heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high until hot but not smoking. (Test with a shred of potato; if it sizzles immediately, it's ready). Reduce heat to medium. Working in batches to avoid crowding, scoop a scant 1/4 cup of potato mixture into oil; flatten with a spatula to 1/4 inch thick. Fry, turning once, until golden brown and crisp, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Using a slotted spatula, transfer to paper towels set over a baking sheet. Sprinkle with flaky salt. Repeat, stirring potato mixture between batches, and adjusting heat as needed while frying. Serve immediately.

Cook's Notes

Alternate between onion and potatoes when grating to keep the potatoes from discoloring.

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Re-ment Detective Room Box Kit Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale

I am sharing 2 videos for your viewing pleasure. The one above is the unboxing of the kit in it's entirety. The second (below) is the complete scene of the detective room with a bonus girl's room. I am providing my Amazon affiliate link if you like to buy it for yourself:  https://amzn.to/3PZJoc6

As you will see I was delighted with the kit and all the interesting pieces that were included. Many of the pieces are items that would be difficult to find in the dollhouse miniature community. So, to find it all in one kit was great. Enjoy my friends.


Natural Disasters Are Rampant Around The World Today New York City

 

This has become a common place threat to New York City.

As people forge through sewage infested waters to get to safety.




Public rail system gets doused with water seeping through it's weak infrastructure. 


Vehicles swamped in water and the loss's through insurance. Vehicles considered total loss and salvaged. These vehicles will then be run through many states till the title becomes clear. The cars are detailed and sold as used. The homes, town homes, apartments, and sub-level units completely flooded with all worldly belongings gone. 
People having to be rescued from vehicles and homes due to these sudden floods. The devastation is terrible. Videos on social media like X (formerly know as Tik Tok), Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. 


Wednesday, July 12, 2023

A Homemakers Letter's

 July 12, 2023

Dear Patience, 

It's been a long time since I have written my friend. I pray that all is well with you and the family. The time has past quickly these 2 months. The weather has taken a toll on my spirits sadly. I feel as if there is no escaping this humid heat.  I've been lingering at home not leaving much to town  visiting friends nor family. My husband and I read the paper last evening and much is happening that is worrisome. We both see on the horizon many changes that will affect everyone from the farmer to the buyer. I used to look forward to seeing the postal man come. But with the high prices of debt I leave our mail for several days before venturing into the heat to retrieve it. I know that is silly but it gives me a short reprieve. The flowers I spoke of before have finally found their home. The front of the estate is lively once again. It is joyous to see natures wonder at bay. As to my sewing project the pillow cases are waiting patiently for the right lace to match. The recipe you sent of Amber Pudding was delightful. I look forward to your next letter. Your Friend Ana

INGREDIENTS

• A pot of marmalade (preferably Mrs Warwick's) • 6oz (170g) suet • 4oz (115g) fresh breadcrumbs • 3 eggs METHOD 1. Grease a pudding basin or mould with butter and set aside. 2. Lightly beat your eggs in a bowl. 3. Add the suet, breadcrumbs and marmalade, mixing well. 4. Pour mixture into the greased basin and top with folded paper and a wet, floured cloth. 5. Boil on a rolling boil for 3 or 4 hours. 6. Turn out onto a plate and serve with a wine sauce, cream or custard.


Sunday, May 21, 2023

You Tube Secret Giveaway Winner's!

 


Thank you all who came to visit my channel and participated in the Giveaway. If your a winner please leave me a comment with your name and mailing address on my video (link below). Please know your information will remain private all comments have to be approved by me before they are released to the world. This will verify it's you and your information. I will delete it after I write it down and it will never be released to the community/world no worries. Thank you again!


Drum Roll Please.....

The Winner's are 1. Jessamyn Sheridan 

                             2. Betty Sears

Congratulations go to this video  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy8gYYdfY0Y

and leave a comment with your name/mailing address. I will write it down and delete it.


                                                          

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Real Facts Dry Foods vs Canned in a Emergency

 

Real Facts Dry Foods vs Canned in a Emergency

Dry Goods vs Canned Friend or Foe


When looking at emergency situations and events there are several things to consider. This is are-post as we see more food shortages, inflation/recession and possible Depression in the future.

 #1 You need Water!!!!! You cannot survive without water.
Now, that water is out of the way. Lets dive in.

                                         Dry Goods
Pro's                                                    
-They can last a long time if properly stored                    
-They can give you energy and nutrition you will need                  
-You can store alot without to much for spoilage
-You can buy them now at a reasonable price.  
-You can trade for other goods              
Con's
-You need water hydrate 
-They need time to hydrate
-They need time to cook
-They may need Spices
-You will use more of your cooking heat source to cook
wood,propane, or gas
-You may suffer food fatigue 
-You can't eat it raw

                                      Canned Goods

Cons: Canned goods have a shorter life span compared to dry goods. If not used within a reasonable amount of time they can be comprised (look below Can Safety). You need a can opener.

Pros:
 Most canned goods need no water. If your stressed out and can't get yourself together. Canned goods will be your friend. They can provide a quick way to eat and not use alot of your heat sources. Some canned foods can be consumed with no heat. Canned goods provide a different flavors that may help in a high stress situation and provide a form or normalcy. 


Having a variety of canned goods is important. Now, remember canned goods with high acidity have a shorter shelf life (tomato sauce, canned fruits, pasta sauces).

You will need to consider your families likes and needs. We have canned soups (various), beans, chicken, spam, corned beef hash etc.. 
I like to have foods that are pre-seasoned (canned) so that's less step to think about. 





                                          Can Food Safety!
All cans have a best by date here in the USA. These are a date provided by the food manufacturer to guarantee taste and nutritional value. Canned foods last well past their best by dates. I have consumed canned goods 2 years past the best by date. They were just fine. Remember to rotate your supply of food using the oldest first.

Important:
If your can is Bulging               Throw it Away!
If your can doesn't sit evenly   Throw it Away!
If your can is rusting                Throw it Away!
If the can is leaking                  Throw it Away!
If the air tight seal is gone        Throw it Away!

If your can has none of these possible issues open it look at it and smell it does it pass your visual, smell and taste test. Then your good to go.

Tip: in a Emergency situation use and keep all fluids that maybe normally drained from your cans to use for preparation of meals to lesson the use of your limited water.

My Personal Opinion: I feel its important to have both dry and canned goods as they both serve a purpose in different situations and life needs.

Friday, May 19, 2023

New U.S. Food Shortage List

 


It's been a while since I wrote here on my Blog. Many events have taken place that has prompted me to jump back in. There are shortages currently that have me concerned. I will only mention a few here but the list is long if you take a deep dive to research.

1. Wheat: Wheat is milled into flour which is then used to make a wide range of foods including bread, crumpets, muffins, noodles, pasta, biscuits, cakes, pastries, cereal bars, sweet and savory snack foods, crackers, crisp-breads, sauces and confectionery. The list goes on and on. 

The wheat harvest in the U.S.A was lack luster at best and only 27% of it was classified as human grade (consumption).  This worried me as a mother and wife of a family of 9. I remember clearly during Covid the inability to find many staples which included flour, sugar and pasta. These simple pantry staples which we may reach for often. 

News/Media here is the U.S.A keep us blind to many of the important things that keep our households running smoothly. While other countries alert their citizens of shortages and provide instruction on preparedness. 

Our's does not...they keep us in the dark and we all have to scramble to make ends meet. 

2. Sugar: reports from around the world are sharing there is a Sugar Shortage and Scarcity. I know I use sugar to make bread, bake, cook, and drinks. 

I recommend to have figure out your monthly usage. Then begin to buy large bags to store away safely for later use. Sugar needs only to be stored in a tight container/food grade bucket in a cool dark dry place. Do not use oxygen absorbers with sugar as it will turn it to a brick. 


Saturday, April 8, 2023

Continued Nuclear Threats From Russia How to Survive.. What To Do ..How To Prepare

This is an excellent article I read: How To Survive A Nuclear War After A Bomb Is Dropped: What To Do & How To Prepare 

By: Aria Bendix,Morgan McFall-Johnsen,Adam Barnes           

to see the complete article please visit: Business Insider: https://www.businessinsider.com/guide-to-protect-yourself-nuclear-attack-before-after-bomb-2022-3 and shared on https://www.yahoo.com/news/minutes-hours-nuclear-bomb-critical-181019914.html originally written March 2022

Here are some important take aways from the article linked above note (this is not my work) to see the complete article see links above. 

What to do after a nuclear attack

The minutes to hours after a nuclear blast are a critical window. The potential for radiation exposure decreases 55% an hour after an explosion and 80% after 24 hours, according to the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.

Immediate actions during those first few hours, like covering your eyes or hunkering down in an indoor shelter, could mitigate your risk of death or serious injury. Here's how to protect yourself in a worst-case scenario.

First 30 minutes: Avert your eyes and shield your face 

A fan shields their eyes during sunset at Glastonbury Festival in the UK.
Mick Hutson/Redferns

The US doesn't have a sufficient warning system for nuclear threats, Redlener said.

Hawaii learned this lesson in 2018, when the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency sent out an erroneous push alert to people's smartphones, warning of an inbound ballistic-missile threat.

"Seek immediate shelter. This is not a drill," the warning read. An employee at the agency had sent the alert by mistake.

phone screenshots shows emergency alert warning of inbound ballistic missile then a new alert saying false alarm there is no missile threat
A combination photograph shows screenshots from a cell phone displaying an alert for a ballistic missile launch and the subsequent false alarm message in Hawaii January 13, 2018. 
Hugh Gentry/Reuters

"It caused chaos," Redlener said, adding: "Some people just totally ignored it, and some people went into panic mode and were jumping down sewer drains with their children."

Redlener said the best way to learn of an impending nuclear attack would probably be TV or radio. Those without immediate access to news reports could hear sirens, he said, but the noise might be confusing. By the time you googled the sirens or called the police department, your time would have run out, he said.

The best course of action is simply to avert your eyes. When a nuclear bomb strikes, it sets off a flash of light and a giant orange fireball. A 1-megaton bomb (about 80 times larger than the "Little Boy" atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Japan) could temporarily blind people up to 13 miles away on a clear day and up to 53 miles away on a clear night.

two people curled up face down in parking structure with hands over ears
People demonstrate taking shelter with their hands covering their eyes and ears while keeping their mouth open, during a drill in Taipei, Taiwan, July 22, 2022. 
Ann Wang/Reuters

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends dropping to the ground with your face down and your hands tucked under your body to protect from flying debris or sweltering heat that could burn your skin. If you have a scarf or handkerchief, cover your nose and mouth.

But make sure to keep your mouth open, so your eardrums don't burst from pressure. Research also suggests that if you're in an above-ground building, avoid narrow hallways and doorways, which can act like a windtunnel, accelerating the detonation's shockwaves to dangerous, bone-crushing pressures. Instead, seek shelter along walls in large, open spaces and avoid rooms with windows, if you can.

First 45 minutes: Seek shelter indoors away from windows

nuclear bunker
People attend an excursion at the Underground Sevastopol museum at a functioning nuclear bunker in Sevastopol, Crimea, on October 16, 2018. 
Sergei Malgavko/TASS/Getty Images

A single nuclear weapon could result in tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of immediate deaths in a major city like New York or Washington. The number of casualties depends on the size of the weapon, where it's detonated, and how many people are upwind of the blast.

Survivors of a nuclear attack would have about 15 minutes before sandlike radioactive particles, known as nuclear fallout, reached the ground. Exposure to fallout can result in radiation poisoning, which can damage the body's cells and prove fatal.

nuclear fallout shelter
A sign for a nuclear fallout shelter on a residential block in Brooklyn. 
Epics/Getty Images

People should ideally look for shelter in the opposite direction of fallen buildings.

"You'd want to go in the direction away from the wind," Redlener said, adding: "Get as far away as you can in the next 10 to 15 minutes, and then immediately seek shelter before the radiation cloud descends."

The best shelters are buildings like schools or offices with few to no windows and a basement for camping out. If there aren't sturdy buildings nearby, it's still better to be indoors than outside.

If you take cover in a multistory building, choose a central location and steer clear of the top and bottom floors. If the building has windows, stand in the center of a room. Shock waves can shatter windows up to 10 miles away from an explosion, resulting in flying glass that could injure people nearby.

First 24 hours: Rinse off in the shower and stay inside 

Afghan coal miner
People who were outside during an explosion should shower as soon as possible. 
Paula Bronstein/Getty Images

The hours after a blast are critical for reducing radiation exposure.

Doctors can often treat radiation damage with substances such as potassium iodide, though "there are certain dose levels that you can't do anything about," Kathryn Higley, a professor of nuclear science at Oregon State University, told Insider. 

But in a disaster scenario, there may not be enough physicians or hospital beds to care for everyone.

"There are not enough empty burn beds in all of the United States to deal with even a single nuclear attack on one city in the US," Tara Drozdenko, the director of the Union of Concerned Scientists' Global Security Program, told Insider.

People who were outside during an explosion should shower as soon as possible, making sure the water is warm and soap is applied gently. Scrubbing too hard could break your skin, which acts as a natural protective barrier. You should also cover any cuts or abrasions while rinsing off. Complete these same steps for pets, too.

Don't use conditioner, body lotion, or face cream after exposure to a nuclear blast, since these products can bind to radioactive particles and trap them in your skin and hair.

nuclear simulation
Rescuers take care of a wounded person during a simulation exercise of a nuclear accident at the Areva nuclear plant in Beaumont-Hague, France, on December 8, 2011. 
Kenzo Tribouillard/AFP/Getty Images

Blow your nose and wipe your ears and eyelids, since debris could get stuck in these places. The CDC also recommends sealing outer layers of clothing in a plastic bag, along with any tissues or cloths used to wipe your body or face.

It's safe to consume food from sealed containers such as packages, bottles, or cans, according to the CDC. You can also eat items from your pantry or refrigerator, as long as you wipe off containers, cookware, counters, and utensils. But anything left uncovered, such as fruits or veggies from a garden, would be unsafe to eat.

Unless you're told to go outside, it's best to stay put until the risk of contamination has gone down. The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends staying indoors for at least 24 hours after a nuclear explosion.

First 7 days: Listen to the radio or television for next steps

Access ramp to a nuclear fallout shelter in Berlin.
If you go outside within the first week after a nuclear explosion, make sure to cover your mouth and any open wounds to help reduce your exposure to the radioactive fallout that'll be raining from the sky. 
JOHN MACDOUGALL / Contributor / Getty Images

The World Health Organization recommends listening to the local radio for information and advice on next steps. Your cell phone, television, and internet probably won't work, but battery-powered and hand-crank radios should.

Over the radio, authorities may advise you to stay put or issue an evacuation to a safer area. This is where you'll also likely learn about available medical aid, if you or someone with you, is sick.

If you venture outside, know that nuclear fallout will be raining from the sky. Most fallout from a nuclear blast takes about a week to return to the ground. 

To reduce exposure, cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth when you go outside and make sure you don't have any exposed open wounds. Also, avoid any food that's directly exposed to open air like fresh produce or open water supplies.

Ultimately, the best thing you can do is remain indoors for the first week while the majority of nuclear fallout settles back down to the ground.