Killer Bugs of Tennessee: A Survival Prepper’s Guide to Avoiding the State’s Deadliest Insects

On January 3, 2026 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Survival Prepper, Survival prepping, Tennessee, Tennessee’ Survival PreppersLeave a comment

When you live close to the woods, work with your hands, and believe in self-reliance, you learn quickly that the smallest threats are often the ones that hurt you the most.

In Tennessee, the terrain is generous but unforgiving. Thick forests, rolling farmland, humid summers, and mild winters make it prime territory not just for people, but for insects that can seriously injure—or in rare cases, kill—an unprepared individual.

This article isn’t written to scare you. Fear is useless in survival. Information, on the other hand, is a tool. My goal is to lay out the most dangerous insects found in the state of Tennessee, explain why they matter, and give you clear, practical steps to keep yourself and your family safe.

If you live, hunt, hike, camp, garden, or simply enjoy sitting on a back porch in this state, this knowledge belongs in your mental survival kit.

Why Insects Are a Serious Survival Threat in Tennessee

Most people think of survival threats as storms, power outages, or civil unrest. Insects rarely get the respect they deserve. That’s a mistake.

Insects are dangerous because:

They are easy to overlook
They thrive near homes and campsites
They often attack without warning
Some carry diseases with long-term consequences
Medical treatment may not be immediately available in rural areas

In a grid-down or disaster scenario, even a minor bite can become life-threatening if infection sets in or medical care is delayed. Prepared people don’t dismiss small threats—they manage them.

1. Mosquitoes: Tennessee’s Deadliest Insect by Numbers

If we’re talking strictly about human deaths, mosquitoes top the list—not just in Tennessee, but worldwide.

Why Mosquitoes Are Dangerous

Mosquitoes themselves aren’t the problem. What they carry is.

In Tennessee, mosquitoes are known vectors for:

West Nile Virus
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
Zika Virus
La Crosse Encephalitis

While many infected individuals show mild or no symptoms, others—especially children, the elderly, and immunocompromised adults—can suffer severe neurological complications.

From a prepper’s perspective, disease-carrying insects are a long-term threat. You may not feel the damage immediately, but once symptoms appear, you’re already behind the curve.

Where You’ll Encounter Them

Standing water (ditches, buckets, birdbaths)
Creek bottoms and riverbanks
Shaded yards and overgrown brush
Campsites and hunting areas

How to Stay Safe from Mosquitoes

Eliminate standing water around your home weekly
Wear long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk
Use proven repellents (DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus)
Install window screens and repair holes
Run fans on porches—mosquitoes are weak flyers

Prepared households treat mosquito control as routine maintenance, not a seasonal afterthought.

2. Ticks: Silent, Patient, and Potentially Life-Altering

Ticks are not insects, but most folks group them together—and for good reason. In Tennessee, ticks are one of the most serious outdoor health threats.

Dangerous Tick Species in Tennessee

Lone Star Tick
Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick)
American Dog Tick

These ticks can transmit:

Lyme disease
Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Ehrlichiosis
Alpha-gal syndrome (a red meat allergy caused by Lone Star ticks)

Alpha-gal alone has changed the lives of many outdoorsmen who suddenly can’t eat beef or pork without severe reactions.

Why Ticks Are a Prepper’s Concern

Ticks don’t bite and leave. They embed themselves, feed slowly, and often go unnoticed for hours or days. In a long-term emergency scenario, untreated tick-borne illness can remove a capable adult from usefulness entirely.

Tick Prevention Strategies

Treat clothing with permethrin
Wear light-colored pants to spot ticks
Tuck pants into boots when in tall grass
Perform full-body tick checks after outdoor activity
Shower within two hours of exposure

In my household, tick checks are non-negotiable. Discipline prevents disease.

3. Brown Recluse Spiders: Small, Reclusive, and Dangerous

The brown recluse spider is well established in Tennessee and deserves respect.

Why Brown Recluses Are Dangerous

Their venom can cause:

Severe skin damage
Necrotic wounds
Secondary infections

While fatalities are rare, untreated bites can result in long healing times and permanent tissue damage.

Where Brown Recluses Hide

Garages
Sheds
Woodpiles
Closets
Cardboard boxes
Undisturbed storage areas

They don’t roam looking to bite you. Most bites happen when someone puts on clothing or reaches into storage without looking.

How to Avoid Brown Recluse Bites

Shake out shoes and clothing
Store items in plastic bins, not cardboard
Reduce clutter
Wear gloves when moving stored items
Seal cracks and crevices in structures

Prepared living spaces are orderly for a reason—it limits hiding places for threats.

4. Black Widow Spiders: Recognizable and Medically Significant

Black widows are less common than brown recluses but still present throughout Tennessee.

Why Black Widows Are Dangerous

Their venom attacks the nervous system and can cause:

Severe muscle pain
Cramping
Nausea
Elevated blood pressure

Children and elderly individuals are at higher risk for complications.

Common Black Widow Locations

Under decks
In woodpiles
Crawl spaces
Outdoor furniture
Utility boxes

Safety Measures

Wear gloves when handling firewood
Inspect outdoor furniture before use
Keep woodpiles away from the home
Reduce insect populations that attract spiders

Respect their space, and they usually return the favor.

5. Fire Ants: Aggressive and Relentless

Imported fire ants are spreading in parts of Tennessee, particularly in the southern and western regions.

Why Fire Ants Are Dangerous

Fire ants attack as a group. Their stings cause:

Intense burning pain
Pustules
Secondary infections
Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis

Multiple stings can overwhelm children or pets quickly.

Fire Ant Survival Tips

Learn to recognize mounds
Avoid standing still in infested areas
Treat mounds promptly
Keep yards maintained
Teach children what fire ant mounds look like

Prepared families educate early. Recognition saves pain.

6. Wasps, Hornets, and Yellowjackets: Territorial Defenders

Stinging insects account for more insect-related deaths in the U.S. than spiders.

Why They’re Dangerous

They sting repeatedly
They attack in groups
They defend nests aggressively
Allergic reactions can be fatal without epinephrine

Yellowjackets are especially aggressive and commonly encountered during late summer and fall.

Where Encounters Happen

Trash cans
Picnic areas
Attics and eaves
Underground nests
Campsites

Staying Safe Around Stinging Insects

Avoid swatting
Cover food outdoors
Secure garbage lids
Inspect structures regularly
Remove nests early (or hire professionals)

In a survival scenario, stings are more than painful—they can be disabling.

7. Kissing Bugs: Rare but Worth Knowing

Kissing bugs are present in Tennessee, though encounters are uncommon.

Why They Matter

They can carry Chagas disease, a serious illness affecting the heart and digestive system. Transmission is rare in the U.S., but awareness matters.

Prepper Takeaway

Seal cracks in homes
Reduce outdoor lighting near doors
Keep pets indoors at night

Preparedness isn’t paranoia—it’s awareness.

Practical Survival Principles for Bug Safety

Here’s how a prepper thinks about insects:

Control the environment – Reduce habitat and access
Protect the body – Clothing, repellents, inspections
Recognize early signs – Bites, rashes, unusual symptoms
Maintain medical readiness – First aid supplies and knowledge
Educate the family – Everyone plays a role

Insects don’t care how tough you are. They exploit complacency.

Essential Bug Defense Gear for Tennessee Homes

Every prepared household should have:

Insect repellent
Tick removal tools
Antihistamines
Hydrocortisone cream
Epinephrine (if prescribed)
Protective clothing
Mosquito netting for emergencies

These items are inexpensive compared to the cost of treatment—or regret.

Final Thoughts from a Prepper

Living prepared doesn’t mean living afraid. It means respecting reality.

Tennessee’s insects are part of the ecosystem, but they don’t have to be part of your medical history. Most injuries happen because people assume “it won’t happen to me.” Survival-minded folks don’t rely on luck—they rely on knowledge, habits, and discipline.

If you take nothing else from this article, remember this: the smallest threats succeed when ignored. Pay attention, prepare your space, and teach the next generation how to live smart in bug country.

Stay alert. Stay capable. Stay safe.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Tennessee

On June 12, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Tennessee, Tennessee Riots, Tennessee’ Survival PreppersLeave a comment

When the streets boil over with chaos and the sirens echo louder than common sense, you’ll quickly learn one brutal truth: you’re either prepared or you’re prey. As a survival prepper with years of training in self-defense and bushcraft, I’ve witnessed the fine line between survival and tragedy. Riots are unpredictable beasts. They erupt fast, spread faster, and leave devastation in their wake. Whether you’re in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, or a small town that rarely makes the news, knowing how to stay safe during a riot isn’t just smart—it’s survival.

Let’s walk through essential knowledge that’ll help you stay alive and protect those you love. This isn’t sugar-coated theory; it’s the kind of practical, field-tested advice forged in fire and reality.

Mindset Before Mayhem: Stay Aware, Stay Ahead

Before we dive into self-defense and survival builds, understand this: survival starts before the first brick is thrown. Situational awareness is your first line of defense. Always be aware of your surroundings. If you see protests forming or tension rising—leave. You don’t want to be a spectator to chaos.

Stay informed through police scanners, local news, and social media, but avoid getting glued to your screen. Have a “go-no-go” bag ready, and a family emergency plan rehearsed.

8 Essential Self-Defense Skills to Survive a Riot

You don’t need to be Bruce Lee. You need to be efficient, decisive, and confident. Here are eight self-defense skills every Tennessean should master to stay alive during a riot:

1. The Fence and Verbal De-escalation

The “fence” is a non-threatening stance with your hands up and open between you and a potential attacker. It’s defensive but looks passive. Combine it with calm, confident verbal de-escalation—your first attempt should always be to defuse, not escalate.

2. Situational Awareness Training

Learn to read a crowd, pick out threats, notice body language, and spot exits. Trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is.

3. Basic Striking Techniques

Master open palm strikes, elbows, and knee strikes. These are devastating in close quarters and don’t injure your hands like punching can. Learn to target the nose, chin, solar plexus, and knees.

4. Escape from Grabs

If someone grabs your wrist, shirt, or backpack, you need fast, instinctive techniques to break free. Use leverage, not strength. Practice wrist breaks, lapel releases, and hair-pull escapes.

5. Ground Defense

In a riot, being on the ground is dangerous. Learn how to break your fall, protect your head, and get up quickly using shrimping and tactical rolls.

6. Improvised Weapon Use

A belt, flashlight, rolled-up magazine, umbrella, or even a backpack can be a weapon. Train with common objects and learn how to use them effectively.

7. Mob Navigation Techniques

Move with the flow of a crowd, not against it. Keep your arms up to protect your chest, and wedge yourself sideways like a swimmer cutting through water. Never get pinned against a wall or fence.

8. Mental Conditioning and Fear Control

Your ability to manage fear is everything. Practice stress inoculation—simulate stressful environments while training. Adrenaline dumps can paralyze or energize; it’s up to your mindset and preparation.

DIY Survival: 3 Ways to Build Weapons for Defense

In Tennessee, you might find yourself miles away from police protection. If looters are breaking into homes or mobs are closing in, having defensive tools—preferably homemade and legal—can save lives.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Materials: 1-inch PVC pipe (18-24 inches), sand, duct tape.
How: Fill the pipe with sand or small gravel, seal both ends with caps or duct tape, and wrap the outside with grip tape. This baton is strong, heavy, and can be carried discreetly.

2. Slingshot with Ball Bearings

Materials: Y-shaped tree branch, surgical tubing, leather pouch, and steel ball bearings.
How: Carve a strong, symmetrical Y-branch, attach surgical tubing to the ends, and fit a leather pouch in the middle. This DIY slingshot can easily deliver deterrent-level damage and fits in a pocket.

3. Door Brace Spear

Materials: Wooden broom handle, long steel screw, electrical tape.
How: Sharpen one end of the broom handle or insert a long steel screw (tip exposed) into the end, and wrap with electrical tape to secure. You now have a spear you can brace behind a door or use in self-defense if a home invasion occurs.

Note: Always check Tennessee state laws about homemade weapons to avoid legal trouble.

Quick Riot Survival Checklist

When a riot ignites, every second matters. Here’s your fast-response list:

Keep your bug-out bag (BOB) packed and in your vehicle or near the exit.
Include water, energy bars, first aid, cash, flashlight, local maps, multi-tool, and ID.
Wear neutral clothing (no logos, nothing politically charged).
Use a mask and goggles for tear gas protection.
Have a rally point for your family to meet if separated.
Avoid major intersections and commercial zones where looters gather.
Park your vehicle nose-out for a quick escape.
NEVER try to reason with a riot. Escape is your mission, not confrontation.

Escape & Evasion in Tennessee’s Terrain

If you’re forced to flee urban areas, Tennessee’s wilderness can be your sanctuary. Know how to use the landscape:

Wooded Escape Routes: The Smokies, Cumberland Plateau, and local greenways offer excellent cover and mobility.
Creekbeds and Rail Lines: Use these to move unseen and avoid roadblocks or mobs.
Abandoned Barns and Outbuildings: Many rural areas have old shelters that can be used temporarily if you need to lay low.

Final Word: Preparation Is the Ultimate Equalizer

When law and order break down, your ability to stay calm, defend yourself, and move smart becomes your currency of survival. Tennessee is a proud, resilient state with a deep heritage of independence. Channel that strength, but don’t let pride get you killed. You’re not trying to win a fight—you’re trying to win the right to keep living.

Stay alert. Train hard. Prep smart. And remember: fortune doesn’t favor the bold—it favors the prepared.

Tennessee’s Worst Roads to Drive on During a Disaster

On June 2, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Tennessee, Tennessee Homestead Lifestyle, Tennessee Safety, Tennessee's Worst Roads, Tennessee’ Survival PreppersLeave a comment

Tennessee’s Worst Roads to Drive on During a Disaster (And How to Survive Them)
By: A Well-Traveled Survivalist

When you’ve spent decades chasing storms, crawling through flash-flooded passes, and navigating highways turned to chaos, you learn one thing fast: the road is rarely your friend in a disaster. Especially in Tennessee.

Now, I’ve driven all over this country—rockslides in Colorado, hurricanes in Florida, ice storms in Maine—but Tennessee? It’s got its own flavor of trouble. The combination of winding mountain passes, crumbling infrastructure, sudden weather shifts, and bottlenecked urban sprawl makes it one of the trickiest states to navigate during a crisis. Whether you’re escaping a tornado, dodging wildfires, or trying to outrun the first signs of societal collapse, understanding the roads—and how to outsmart them—might just be what keeps you alive.

Tennessee’s Most Dangerous Roads During a Disaster

Let’s get specific. If you’re in Tennessee and the grid goes dark or a twister touches down, avoid these roads like the plague:

I-24 Through Monteagle Mountain
A steep, fog-prone stretch with frequent rockslides and sudden weather shifts. During a disaster, this becomes a deathtrap.
I-40 Through Downtown Nashville
Gridlocked in the best of times. In a crisis? It’s a parking lot with panicked drivers and no clear escape route.
US-129 (Tail of the Dragon)
318 curves in 11 miles—thrilling on a Sunday ride, deadly when you’re trying to flee with a vehicle full of supplies.
I-75 Through Chattanooga
Prone to major pileups and susceptible to flash flooding. Bridges and underpasses can trap you like a rat.
SR-64 Through Franklin County
Low visibility, poor maintenance, and sharp elevation changes. When every second counts, this road turns into a gauntlet.
I-440 Loop in Nashville
Short, poorly designed, and overloaded. A minor fender bender can stall traffic for hours, especially during an emergency.
State Route 68 Through Tellico Plains
Narrow, winding, and prone to fallen trees. In rural areas like this, you’re on your own.
US-70S Through Murfreesboro
Suburban chaos with high traffic density. Once panic sets in, forget about getting anywhere fast.
I-81 in Northeast Tennessee
Notorious for black ice and bad weather. Add in a panicked population and you’ve got a dangerous mix.
SR-111 Near Cookeville
Steep gradients and limited guardrails. Night driving here is hazardous—don’t even try it during a blackout.

15 Survival Driving Skills That Could Save Your Life

Now, let’s say you’re caught in a disaster scenario. Roads are jammed, GPS is fried, and cell towers are down. Here’s what you need to know to survive:

Situational Awareness
Scan far ahead for brake lights, smoke, or roadblocks. Keep your head on a swivel—danger rarely comes from just one direction.
Off-Road Maneuvering
Know how to take your vehicle off pavement. Even a two-wheel drive can manage a field or ditch if you pick your line carefully.
Engine Braking
Use your gears to control speed downhill—especially in the Appalachians. Burn out your brakes and you’re a rolling coffin.
Navigating Without GPS
Keep a physical map. Learn to read topography so you can identify passes, rivers, and high ground.
Controlled Skidding
Practice steering into a skid. Whether it’s rain, ice, or gravel, knowing how to recover might save your life.
Driving Blackout
Learn to drive with your lights off using only your night vision in low-profile getaways. Don’t do it often, but know it.
Vehicle Field Repair
From changing a tire to bypassing a starter relay, basic vehicle mechanics can get you out of a jam.
Fuel Rationing Techniques
Feather the gas, coast downhill, and limit idling. In a crisis, every drop matters.
Using the Shoulder and Median
These are legal gray zones during a crisis. Use them wisely—but avoid getting stuck in a soft shoulder.
Barricade Breaching
Keep a tow strap, winch, or even bolt cutters. Sometimes survival means clearing your own way.
Convoy Driving
In numbers there is safety—but it takes coordination. Establish signals, routes, and fallback points.
Escape Route Planning
Always have two exits: your main route and a backup. Practice both.
Water Crossing Techniques
Know your vehicle’s clearance. Never cross fast-moving water—six inches can sweep you off the road.
Defensive Driving
Aggression gets people killed. Keep space, stay calm, and anticipate others’ panic.
Silent Starts and Idles
Know how to shut down accessories and keep a low profile. Sometimes, quiet is your best ally.

3 DIY Survival Driving Hacks When You Run Out of Gas

Now for the brutal truth—eventually, you’re going to run out of fuel. Whether it’s panic-buying or supply chain collapse, it’s coming. But don’t throw in the towel just yet. Here are three DIY survival driving hacks that might buy you critical miles:

1. Ethanol Siphoning from Outdoor Equipment
Gas cans dry up fast—but lawnmowers, ATVs, boats, and even chainsaws often contain small amounts of fuel. It may be ethanol-blended, but it’ll burn in most engines if you’re desperate.

Tip: Use clear tubing and gravity to siphon safely. Avoid ingesting vapors.

2. Emergency Biofuel Additives
In certain engines, you can extend your gas with high-proof alcohol (like Everclear). It’s not ideal and not recommended long-term, but it can get you to the next stop.

Warning: Only for fuel-injected systems designed to tolerate ethanol blends. This is a last-resort move.

3. Human-Powered Flat Tow
If you’re completely out of fuel but not out of manpower, use tow straps and a bike, ATV, or even another person on foot to pull your vehicle downhill or out of the kill zone.

Pro Tip: Lighten the load, remove excess gear, and use neutral gear. It won’t be fast—but it might save your life.

Final Thoughts

I’ve survived by being prepared, staying calm, and adapting fast. That’s what driving through a disaster demands. Roads in Tennessee are beautiful but brutal. The mountains don’t care. The floods don’t care. Panic sure as hell doesn’t care.

So next time you’re driving down I-24 and the skies go green, ask yourself:
Do I know my vehicle?
Do I know this road?
Do I know how to get out alive?

Because if you don’t, it might be time to learn.

Tennessee Homestead Lifestyle: A Rant from a Fed-Up Homesteader

On May 30, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Tennessee, Tennessee Homestead Lifestyle, Tennessee’ Survival PreppersLeave a comment

I tell you what, if one more city slicker rolls up my gravel drive asking if I “relax out here and drink herbal tea,” I might just go full possum-crazy on ‘em. This ain’t no Bed & Breakfast with chickens for decoration. This is a working homestead in Tennessee — land that sweats, bleeds, and gives back only what you wring out of it with busted knuckles and dawn-to-dark labor.

People think homesteading is cute until they’re waist-deep in goat crap at 5 a.m. trying to unjam a milker because the doe decided today’s the day she’s gonna kick like a two-stroke engine. This life ain’t for the faint-hearted, lazy, or Instagram filters. This is grit, firewood, sweat, and skill. And if you don’t have those, Tennessee will chew you up and spit you out next to the rusted lawnmowers.

Let me break it down for you folks who think this is some whimsical “back to the land” fairy tale. If you want to live the homestead lifestyle in Tennessee and not get run off by mold, wild hogs, weather tantrums, and your own damn ignorance, you’d better sharpen up the following 15 homesteading skills. Memorize them like gospel, because out here, they’re the difference between thriving and begging your cousin in Nashville to let you crash on their couch.

15 Homestead Skills You’d Best Learn (Or Quit Pretending You’re a Homesteader)

Basic Carpentry – You’ll fix everything from the chicken coop to your own roof. Can’t swing a hammer? Go back to Target.
Canning and Preserving – If you don’t know how to can tomatoes, pressure can beans, or make pickles that won’t botulize you, you ain’t eating come January.
Animal Husbandry – Goats, chickens, rabbits, pigs. Know how to breed ‘em, feed ‘em, and treat ‘em when they get foot rot or coccidiosis. Don’t just Google it after they drop dead.
Butchering – Yes, you need to know how to turn your animals into food. Respectfully. Humanely. Efficiently. If you cry too much to do it, buy your meat at Walmart and leave us alone.
Seed Saving – Ain’t no guarantee that the feed store will have heirlooms when the next supply chain fiasco hits. Learn to save, dry, and store your seeds.
Composting – If you’re tossing kitchen scraps in the trash, you’re wasting gold. Compost feeds your soil and your future crops. Learn the green/brown balance or enjoy your slimy, stinking pile.
Basic Veterinary Care – Out here, the vet ain’t 15 minutes away. Learn to pull a calf, stitch up a wound, and treat worms yourself.
Chainsaw Operation and Maintenance – You’ll be clearing trees, cutting wood, and maybe building a cabin with it. Dull chains and bad fuel mixes will ruin your day and your saw.
Cooking from Scratch – If you need a box to bake a biscuit, don’t come out here. You should be able to whip up a meal from what’s in your pantry and garden.
Foraging – Learn your local wild edibles and medicinals. Chickweed, plantain, morels, wild garlic. This land offers more than you realize, but not if you’re too blind to see it.
Basic Plumbing – Gravity-fed water, rain catchment, septic systems — you’ll be your own maintenance guy or gal. And guess what? Pipe bursts don’t wait ‘til it’s convenient.
Electrical Know-how – Solar panels, generators, battery banks — off-grid power takes brains and patience. Don’t blow yourself up.
Tanning Hides – If you hunt or raise livestock for meat, don’t waste the hides. Learn how to tan them and make use of everything the animal gives.
Firewood Management – Cut, split, season, stack. Know what wood burns hot and what smokes like a wet rag. Heating your home is a year-round job.
Weather Reading – The weather man don’t live in your valley. You’ll learn to read the sky, smell the air, and feel when the storm’s coming.

Now, once you’ve got those skills (and don’t lie, you don’t), let’s talk DIY Homestead Hacks. Tennessee weather will swing from biblical droughts to soggy floods in a week, so these three hacks might just save your bacon.

3 DIY Homestead Hacks Every Tennessean Should Use

1. Gravity-Fed Rainwater System Using IBC Totes
Everyone acts shocked when their well pump dies or power goes out. You fool. You need backup water. Set up an elevated IBC tote system with first-flush diverters. Hook ’em to your gutters. Rain falls, tote fills, gravity does the rest. Add a Berkey-style filter at the end if you’re drinking it. Simple. Cheap. Life-saving.

2. Solar Dehydrator Made from Old Windows and a Box Fan
Tennessee humidity is a beast, but the sun’s generous. Build a solar dehydrator using reclaimed wood, black paint, an old fan (solar if you can rig it), and some screen shelves. Dehydrate your herbs, fruits, jerky — even fish. Stop wasting your freezer space and power on what the sun can handle.

3. Heated Chicken Waterer with a Concrete Block and a Lightbulb
Come winter, the chickens’ water freezes faster than you can say “eggbound.” Place a cinder block upside down, put an incandescent bulb inside (protected from pecking and moisture), and set your metal waterer on top. Boom — no frozen water and no $80 Amazon heater.

You still here? Still think this is a lifestyle for “simplicity” and “slowing down”? Lord help you. This life is about intentional hardship. The kind that feeds your soul while it breaks your back. Ain’t nothing simple about rising before daylight, bleeding in your garden, and praying your sow don’t miscarry in the cold snap. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Tennessee homesteading isn’t for soft hands or soft minds. It’s for folks with backbone, blistered palms, and a deep, unshakable love of land. It’s not rustic charm. It’s war — against decay, dependency, and modern stupidity. And every day you win a little ground, grow a little food, teach your kid to hold a hammer instead of a tablet — that’s a victory worth the scars.

So if you’re still dreaming of this life, put your boots on. Pick up a shovel. Get dirty. Get tired. Get smart. And for heaven’s sake, stop asking if I “name my chickens like pets.” Their names are Breakfast, Dinner, and Soup.

Now get off my porch. I’ve got beans to stake and a fence to mend before sundown.

Tennessee’s Drinking Water Safety: The Ugly Truth

On May 28, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Tennessee, Tennessee Drinking Water, Tennessee’ Survival PreppersLeave a comment

Tennessee’s Drinking Water Safety: The Ugly Truth

Tennessee’s drinking water comes from a mix of surface water sources like rivers and lakes and groundwater from wells. On paper, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) claims the water meets federal standards, but those “standards” can be shockingly lax. Heavy metals like lead and arsenic? They’ve been found in some regions. Agricultural runoff? Hello, nitrates and pesticides. Industrial pollution? Toxic chemicals lurking beneath the surface. And don’t forget about aging water treatment plants and pipelines, which can introduce bacteria and viruses if not properly maintained.

Even worse, in a crisis—natural disaster, contamination event, or infrastructure failure—your water source could become a death trap overnight. You think the government or local authorities will swoop in and save you immediately? Think again. When SHTF, it’s on you to have the skills and gear to secure clean water, or you’ll be drinking from mud puddles and praying to God you don’t catch something worse than dehydration.

15 Water Filtration Survival Skills You Need

Listen close because these skills could literally save your life. You cannot just hope the water is safe or rely on store-bought filters alone. You must master these filtration and purification methods like your life depends on it — because it does.

Boiling Water
The oldest and simplest trick: boil water for at least 1-3 minutes to kill most bacteria, viruses, and parasites. If you’re above 6,500 feet elevation, boil longer.
Using Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a powerhouse for removing chemicals, toxins, and bad tastes. You can make your own charcoal by burning hardwood until it turns black and then crushing it finely.
DIY Sand and Gravel Filter
Layer sand, gravel, and charcoal in a container to create a slow water filter that catches sediment and particulates. It won’t kill microbes but will clarify the water.
Solar Disinfection (SODIS)
Fill clear plastic bottles with water and leave them in direct sunlight for 6 hours. UV rays help destroy pathogens. It’s not foolproof but better than nothing.
Chemical Disinfection with Bleach
Use unscented household bleach—add 8 drops per gallon, stir, and let it sit 30 minutes. If water smells like chlorine afterward, let it sit uncovered to off-gas.
Constructing a Bio-Sand Filter
Create a layered filter with sand and gravel, allowing beneficial bacteria to grow and naturally break down contaminants over time.
Using Portable Water Filters
Carry a quality survival water filter (like Sawyer or LifeStraw) designed to remove bacteria and protozoa.
Distillation
Capture water vapor by heating water and condensing the steam into a clean container. This removes heavy metals and salts but requires equipment.
Using Iodine Tablets or Drops
These are lightweight chemical treatments to kill bacteria and viruses. Be mindful of allergies or thyroid conditions.
Making a Cloth Filter
Use a clean cloth or bandana to filter out large particulates before further treatment.
Freezing and Thawing
In cold climates, freezing water and then thawing can reduce some microbial load, but it’s unreliable alone.
Using Moringa Seeds
Crush Moringa oleifera seeds and stir into turbid water. The seeds act as natural coagulants to help sediment settle.
Using Alum Powder
Alum helps clump sediment and contaminants, making it easier to filter out suspended solids.
Using Coffee Filters or Paper Towels
Not a full solution but can help remove debris and particulates before chemical treatment.
Knowing How to Collect Rainwater Safely
Set up clean containers or tarps to collect rainwater. Make sure collection surfaces are free from contaminants and treat before drinking.

3 DIY Survival Drinking Water Hacks for When You’re Out of Options

You don’t always have fancy filters or chemical tablets lying around. When you’re stranded in the wild or stuck in a grid-down scenario, you’ve got to improvise and survive with what you have. Here are three hacks that will keep you hydrated without poisoning yourself.

1. The Solar Still

This is a lifesaver in arid environments or when water sources are contaminated. Dig a hole in the ground, place a container in the center, cover the hole with plastic sheeting, and place a small rock in the middle to create a low point. Condensation will collect on the plastic and drip into your container. This collects pure distilled water—clean and safe to drink.

2. Charcoal and Cloth Filter Bottle

Take a plastic bottle, cut it in half, and invert the top into the bottom like a funnel. Layer crushed charcoal, sand, and gravel inside the top part, then cover the mouth with a cloth or bandana. Pour dirty water through the filter slowly, and the water collected in the bottom will be much cleaner.

3. Boiling Water with a Makeshift Pot

If you don’t have a metal pot, use a large, clean leaf or bark fashioned into a container and fill it with water. Place it on hot coals or a rock heated by fire, not directly in flames, and bring it to a boil to purify.

Final Word: Don’t Trust Tennessee’s Tap Water—Prepare Like Your Life Depends on It

Look, I’m not here to scare you just for kicks. I’m here because I’ve seen what happens when people blindly trust municipal water systems. You want a dead serious wake-up call? Study the news and you’ll find incidents where water was contaminated by industrial chemicals, lead leaks, or harmful bacteria outbreaks. Tennessee is no exception.

You need to assume your water is compromised and act accordingly. Boil it, filter it, treat it, purify it by any means necessary. Keep backup water purification supplies in your bug-out bag or emergency kit, and learn how to craft your own filters and distillers. Knowing how to get safe drinking water from almost any source is non-negotiable for survival in Tennessee or anywhere else.

If you want to stay alive, you’ll get serious about your water. That means stocking up on filters, learning chemical treatments, building your own filtration devices, and understanding nature’s methods like solar disinfection and distillation. If you don’t, you’re inviting sickness, disease, and disaster right to your doorstep.

So stop waiting for “official” assurances, because those come after the fact, long after you’re already sick. Take control. Prepare. Survive. Because when the water turns toxic, it’s not just a matter of inconvenience—it’s a matter of life and death. And I guarantee you, if you’re not ready, you won’t last a day.

Hiking Trails in Tennessee: Are You Strong Enough to Survive?

On May 21, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Best Hiking Trails in Tennessee, TennesseeLeave a comment

Hiking Trails in Tennessee: Are You Strong Enough to Survive?

As a seasoned survival prepper, the thought of venturing into the wilderness is not just an escape; it’s a lifestyle. You can talk all day about gear, strategies, and food storage, but when you set foot on a trail in the great outdoors, it’s about testing your mental and physical toughness. The raw, untamed environment is your true testing ground—no cell service, no comforts of home, just you, your skills, and the elements.

Tennessee, with its rugged mountains, dense forests, and awe-inspiring landscapes, offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking trails in the United States. Whether you’re hiking to test your strength, scout for edible plants, or practice your survival techniques, the Volunteer State has something for everyone. These trails are more than just places to walk—they’re places to conquer.

Before you hit the trail, however, make sure you’re prepared. Remember, survival isn’t just about bringing the right gear; it’s about knowing how to adapt, improvise, and endure. If you think you’re strong enough to survive in Tennessee’s wild places, here’s a list of the top 20 hiking trails to test your limits.

1. Appalachian Trail (Great Smoky Mountains)

The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a legendary hike for those who want to test themselves against the elements. This 2,190-mile trail spans from Georgia to Maine, but in Tennessee, it crosses through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The AT offers some of the most challenging terrain, steep ascents, unpredictable weather, and breathtaking views of the Smokies. You’ll need a solid survival kit and an iron will to conquer this one.

Survival Tip: The unpredictable weather in the Smokies can change at a moment’s notice. Always be prepared with layers and a rain jacket, even if the forecast says clear skies.

2. Mount LeConte (Alum Cave Trail)

Mount LeConte stands as one of the highest points in the Great Smoky Mountains. The Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular routes to the summit. This 5-mile one-way hike will challenge your stamina with its steep ascents, rock scrambles, and breathtaking views. The final stretch to Alum Cave Bluffs is particularly rugged, requiring not just physical strength but mental grit to keep pushing onward.

Survival Tip: This trail has many exposed areas where you might be exposed to the elements. Bring extra water and high-energy snacks to keep your body fueled for the climb.

3. Roan Mountain (Appalachian Trail)

The Roan Mountain area is known for its rhododendron gardens and high-altitude beauty. The Appalachian Trail through Roan Mountain is a hike that’s rich with biodiversity and incredible vistas. The highest point on the trail is at 6,285 feet, offering a rigorous hike for even the most seasoned prepper. The weather here can turn quickly, so always be ready for sudden changes in temperature.

Survival Tip: The terrain in this area can be tricky, especially during wet conditions. Make sure your boots are waterproof and have a solid tread.

4. The Cumberland Trail (Piney Falls to Rock Creek)

The Cumberland Trail is a 200-mile network that spans across the Cumberland Plateau. The section between Piney Falls and Rock Creek offers rugged terrain, scenic waterfalls, and sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. You’ll need to be prepared to navigate rocky terrain, cross creeks, and hike through dense forests.

Survival Tip: This trail passes through some isolated sections. Carry a detailed map, compass, or GPS device and tell someone your itinerary before you head out.

5. Chilhowee Mountain Trail

For those who prefer more moderate hikes but still want to challenge their endurance, the Chilhowee Mountain Trail is a solid choice. Located near the Cherokee National Forest, this 5.5-mile trail offers beautiful views, diverse wildlife, and a relatively moderate elevation gain. It’s a great place to practice or refine your survival skills.

Survival Tip: The trail is known for its misty conditions in the morning, so be prepared with moisture-wicking layers and a windproof jacket.

6. GSMNP: Charlie’s Bunion (Appalachian Trail)

The Charlie’s Bunion section of the Appalachian Trail is known for its wild beauty and rugged cliffs. It’s a 9-mile round-trip hike with significant elevation gain, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. It’s not just the difficulty of the trail that makes it a challenge—it’s the unpredictable weather, which can turn cold and wet even in the summer.

Survival Tip: Be prepared for steep terrain and bring a good first-aid kit. There are areas along the trail where a fall could result in injury.

7. Frozen Head State Park (Emory Gap Trail)

Frozen Head State Park is known for its wilderness and rugged terrain. The Emory Gap Trail is one of the park’s hardest trails, featuring steep inclines, creek crossings, and deep woods. This trail is perfect for prepping yourself for wilderness survival, as it’s often remote and requires careful navigation.

Survival Tip: It’s a great trail for practicing your off-grid skills, but make sure you bring a map and enough water for the entire hike, as there are few reliable water sources.

8. Slickrock Creek Wilderness Loop

Slickrock Creek Wilderness Loop in the Cherokee National Forest is a 12-mile loop known for its strenuous terrain. The trail passes through rugged mountain terrain, dense forest, and fast-moving streams. The remoteness of this trail makes it ideal for honing your wilderness survival skills.

Survival Tip: Always bring a fire starter kit and know how to purify water from the streams along the trail.

9. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (John Muir Trail)

Big South Fork is an incredible place to explore rugged landscapes, with the John Muir Trail offering a 13-mile hike through dense woods and dramatic overlooks. This trail traverses along the river and into rugged sandstone cliffs, offering unique challenges for survivalists.

Survival Tip: The river crossings can be challenging, especially in high water, so know how to safely cross streams and carry waterproof gear.

10. Clingmans Dome (Forney Ridge Trail)

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains, and the Forney Ridge Trail is a short but challenging hike to the summit. You’ll be walking through an alpine environment with high winds, cooler temperatures, and steep ascents. The trail may be short, but it packs a punch when it comes to elevation and difficulty.

Survival Tip: The wind can be brutal at the top of Clingmans Dome, so pack layers that can be easily added or removed.

11. Tennessee Rock Trail (Cumberland Mountain State Park)

Cumberland Mountain State Park is a great spot for a challenging day hike. The Tennessee Rock Trail is a 2-mile loop that takes you to one of the park’s highest points, offering spectacular views of the surrounding terrain. The trail has a bit of everything—rocky paths, forest cover, and steep ascents.

Survival Tip: The rocky sections of the trail can be slippery, especially when wet, so be careful of your footing.

12. Laurel-Snow Trail (Laurel Snow Natural Area)

Located in the Cumberland Plateau, the Laurel-Snow Trail is an 8.2-mile round-trip hike that takes you through wild landscapes, creeks, and waterfalls. It’s a relatively moderate trail, but the rugged terrain and creek crossings can pose challenges, making it an excellent place to practice your water crossing skills.

Survival Tip: You’ll need to cross a creek, so waterproof boots and a dry bag for valuables are essential.

13. Cumberland Gap (Hensley Settlement Trail)

The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers a piece of American history with rugged trails that require endurance. The Hensley Settlement Trail is a 3.5-mile hike that takes you to an old mountain settlement, offering both a physical challenge and a chance to step back in time.

Survival Tip: The trail is remote and can be overgrown. Know how to navigate using landmarks and stay on the trail.

14. Dolly Sods (Great Smoky Mountains)

Dolly Sods is a unique, high-altitude location in the Smoky Mountains where alpine plants and cool temperatures can test your survival skills. The area’s unpredictable weather, rocky terrain, and steep climbs make it perfect for anyone looking to push themselves.

Survival Tip: Bring a lightweight shelter and enough food for a multi-day hike, just in case the weather turns.

15. Mammoth Cave National Park (Echo River Trail)

Mammoth Cave National Park offers some unique challenges, with the Echo River Trail offering 4 miles of underground hiking. A true test of your adaptability, this trail forces you to navigate by torchlight and face the claustrophobic challenge of caves.

Survival Tip: A reliable headlamp and extra batteries are essential when venturing into the caves.

16. Standing Stone State Park (Nature Trail)

Standing Stone State Park offers a 2.5-mile loop trail that traverses the park’s steep hills, dense woods, and ridgelines. It’s a great trail to practice navigation, endurance, and solitude.

Survival Tip: The trail can be muddy and slippery in places, so waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are necessary.

17. Rattlesnake Ridge Trail (Cherokee National Forest)

The Rattlesnake Ridge Trail offers a mix of challenging climbs, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views of the surrounding hills. The challenging terrain will make you feel the burn, but the views will remind you why it’s all worth it.

Survival Tip: Keep an eye out for snakes (as the name suggests), and bring a trekking pole for extra stability.

18. Pine Mountain Trail (Pine Mountain State Resort Park)

The Pine Mountain Trail is a challenging and rugged trail located in Kentucky but connects into Tennessee. The 5-mile trail will take you through wooded forests, over streams, and up steep hills, making it an excellent trail for prepper training.

Survival Tip: Carry a compass and map, as there are fewer marked signs along the trail.

19. The Devil’s Triangle (Nolichucky River Trail)

This treacherous 7-mile trail is not for the faint of heart. The Devil’s Triangle is known for its tough climbs, slippery rocks, and dangerous drops. It’s a test of physical endurance and mental toughness.

Survival Tip: Don’t underestimate the difficulty of this hike. Be prepared for rapid changes in terrain and weather.

20. Raven’s Fork Trail (Great Smoky Mountains)

The Raven’s Fork Trail is one of the most rugged trails in the Smoky Mountains. It’s a difficult 10-mile hike that crosses streams, passes through dense woods, and requires a great deal of stamina to conquer.

Survival Tip: Water crossings can be swift, so practice your crossing techniques and pack extra dry socks.

Tennessee’s trails are not for the faint of heart. If you’re truly strong enough to survive these grueling hikes, you’ll be well-prepared for anything nature throws your way. The wilderness will test your limits, and with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll come out stronger and more capable of surviving any situation. Stay sharp, stay prepared, and embrace the challenge—Tennessee’s wild spaces are waiting.