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       Maps
       October 07th, 2018
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       I intend to do a longer phlog soon with an update on my bug-out
       bag and other emergency preparations, but in the meantime I wanted
       to highlight one thing I value that many people probably overlook.
       In the United States the USGS provides extremely detailed and well
       maintained maps for free (digital) or cheap (print) covering
       pretty much every inch of the country. The most popular of these
       maps are the 7.5 minute stretches, which cover about 64 square
       miles in each one. Here's the one that covers my house [0]!
       
 (HTM) [0] 7.5 Minute Map (large file warning)
       
       In addition, I also have a map of the full county with topographic
       information and water systems clearly labeled. I keep both of
       these in a waterproof map case in my bag. I have a road atlas in
       my car for the whole country, but around home there may be need to
       understand the land more intimately in case of emergency. 
       
       In short, maps are cool.