One thing I’ve learned from both personal experience and talking with friends is that when disaster strikes, there’s no greater comfort than knowing your family will be fed. And that’s exactly why I’ve made canning a central part of how I prepare for emergencies.
Canning isn’t just for grandmothers with giant gardens—anyone can do it! In fact, one of the things I love about canning the most is chicken stock, because it’s incredibly versatile and protein-packed, which makes it perfect for emergency meals. When I heard about all the destruction from Hurricane Helene, and that people were stuck without power for days – and worse, it reminded me of why I can. Even if we were without power, I’d be able to feed us for a while and even share with my friends and family.
Here’s how I can chicken stock:
Knowing how to can—and what to can—can make all the difference when a disaster strikes. Whether it’s a hurricane, a snowstorm, or just a regular power outage, having canned goods like meat stocks, vegetables, and even fruits in your pantry ensures that you’re ready to handle whatever comes your way.
I highly recommend the Blue Ball Canning book for all the various recipes and methods for canning. While I’m personally a part of some Rebel Canning facebook groups, I love having a physical book to fall back on – you know, like if the internet crashes.
I start with making my chicken stock, and straining through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into sterilized jars that I’ve checked for cracks and knicks.. Wipe rims, secure lids, and then follow the instructions that come with your pressure canner (this is the canner I have). I use 10 lbs of pressure for 35 minutes for my quart jars of chicken stock.
The Role of Gas Stoves and Portable Cooktops
One of the biggest challenges people in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina faced was losing power for extended periods of time. Even here in Southwest Ohio, the power outages from the storm left many scrambling to cook meals without their usual electric appliances. That’s why having a gas stove or a portable gas cooktop is such a valuable tool in emergency preparedness. I tell my friends who camp a lot that they are the most prepared for anything!
When the power goes out during a storm, having a portable gas stove can be a real lifesaver. It’s perfect for boiling water, making a quick soup with stock and veggies, or even cooking up pasta to pair with canned spaghetti sauce. Whether you’re heating food for the kids or preparing a simple meal, having a backup cooking method can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one.
10 Essential Items from Farm On Central for Your Emergency Kit
Preparing for emergencies doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. In fact, some of the essentials you need are right here at Farm On Central, and stocking up on these local, high-quality items will not only sustain you during a disaster, but they’ll also nourish your family in a healthier way.
Here are 10 must-haves that should be in every emergency pantry:
- Chicken for you to can at home – Ready-to-eat, high in protein, and incredibly versatile.
- Dried Beans – A great source of fiber and nutrients, with a long shelf life.
- Honey – An all-natural sweetener that never spoils. Plus, it can be used medicinally.
- Herbal Teas – Keep your spirits up during a stressful time with calming, nutrient-rich teas.
- Dehydrated Vegetables – Perfect for soups, stews, or even rehydrated for side dishes.
- Fermented Veggies – Full of probiotics, these are a great way to support your immune system that can survive without a fridge for a week or so.
- Jams – Spread some sweetness on your bread or crackers when you need a little comfort.
- Locally Milled Flour – Perfect for making bread or thickening soups when fresh supplies run low.
- Firewood or Charcoal – If you’ve got a fireplace or a grill, these are essential for heat and cooking.
- Seeds – For long-term preparedness, keeping seeds on hand means you can grow your own food once the dust settles.
NOTE: The other main area of preparation that we take seriously is water. We keep a Berkey water filter on hand for emergency filtration. You can find other gravity fed water filtration options at Greenfield Water Solutions, and I’ve even been looking at investing in some LifeStraws.
Being Prepared is a Gift to Your Family
While we can’t prevent disasters like Hurricane Helene from happening, we can be prepared to weather the storm. Whether it’s learning how to can, stocking your pantry with essentials, or investing in a portable gas stove, or water filtration, taking steps now ensures that you’ll be ready when life throws the unexpected your way.
At Farm On Central, we’re more than just a place to shop. We’re here to help you and your family feel confident and prepared for anything that comes your way. Whether you’re looking for local, fresh food or want to learn more about emergency preparedness, we’re always here to help. Stop by the farm to stock up on essentials, ask us about canning, and let’s work together to make sure we’re all ready for whatever the future holds.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember, community is everything. Together, we can weather any storm.
