Friday Five for October 19, 2012

Here’s what we’re reading this week in our Friday Five from PreppingToSurvive.com: Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warns of “Cyber Pearl Harbor”, a new study finds that medications remain potent long after their expiry dates, how to make a bug-out bag that will get you to where you want to go, and predictions of riots after the U.S. Presidential election, among others.

Defense Secretary Panetta Warns of Cyber Attack on Par with 9/11

Last week, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned business executives that foreign cyber actors are targeting chemical, electrical, and water processing plant and are actively developing and acquiring tools to “attack these systems and cause panic, destruction, and even the loss of life.” Panetta has been warning for a month now of a “Cyber Pearl Harbor” and has liken now to the days just prior to 9/11/2001. From the Washington Guardian.

Southeastern U.S. to Join in Earthquake Drill

Each October, much of the U.S participates in an earthquake drill. This year, many states in the southeastern U.S. will participate as well. Although considered a rare occurrence, many geologists predict a “significant” earthquake will strike the eastern half of the U.S. in the coming decades. In fact, a 4.0 magnitude quake struck Maine earlier this week. Due to the composite of the rock and ground along with the delicate buildings and structures, an earthquake along the eastern seaboard will likely be devastating. From USAToday.

Will the U.S. Presidential Election Result in Riots Across America?

Voters across the United States will cast their ballots on November 6th. But many are wondering if that’s only a pre-cursor for riots that will follow on November 7th? With 86% of Americans expressing frustration or anger at the U.S. government, it’s not hard to imagine the supporters of the losing candidate taking to the streets. Already Obama and Romney supports have acted out in ugly ways. From The Economic Collapse.

How to Make a Bug-Out Bag

Although it’s not something that any of us want to do, there may be a situation where we must abandon our homes and seek refuge in another location. In those circumstances, you’ll need to have the right gear to ensure that you can make the journey safely. So, what should you take to help you along the way? Guest poster Creek Stewart of Willow Haven Outdoor shares his list of must haves for your bug-out bag. From Art of Manliness.

Study Finds Drug Expiration Dates Meaningless

For years, many have questioned the expiration dates placed on food and medications. Do they really expire after the date on the box or can? How do we know? A new study published in The Archives of Internal Medicine finds that the active ingredients of many medications retain their potency for years or even decades past the expiration date printed on the bottle. That’s good news for preppers. From Doom and Bloom.