School of Self-Reliance

URBAN PREPAREDNESS -- in view of the many recent Disasters
2026-05-02 10:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
Urban Survival Guide, by Nyerges
Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.
Urban Preparedness can mean a life of self-reliance! But it also means you’re a bit more prepared for disasters such as an earthquake, or a flood, or a fire.
We will cover some of the basic elements that you should know in order to take care of yourself at home. This class is all about urban preparedness.
We’ll cover issues about WATER and how to store water in Los Angeles County. What FOODS should you store, and grow. We will also show (and cook) some wild foods. We will share how to COOK in your backyard if you can’t use your indoor stove. We will address first aid only minimally — we suggest you take a Red Cross course. We will share TOILET alternative that is relatively easy. We will also show some of the alternate devices to ELECTRICAL devices. And we’ll talk about the notion of a “bug out bag,” and some common sense, such as the benefits of joining Neighborhood Watch, or starting one, if one is not active in your neighborhood.
This class will include a short PLANT WALK to learn about edible and medicinal wild plants.
Location sent with registration
Books and products will be available for sale

BASIC NATURAL NAVIGATION, AND ORIENTATION
2026-06-13 10:00 - 14:00 UTC
NATURAL NAVIGATION AND ORIENTATION
Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.

What are some of the tried-and-proven methods for navigation that people have used for centuries?
We’ll begin with observations of the terrain — shadows, looking at trees, moisture, feeling rocks, insect signs, etc.
We’ll learn how to use the stars, the sun, the moon, for navigation, including how to read the natural terrain. These are skills that our grandparents took for granted, but as we rely more and more on technologies, we have forgotten these very basic skills.
Yes, you’ll also learn the basics of how to read a map, how to use a compass, how to align the map with a compass, and ways to navigate the terrain with these tools.
We’ll do exercises to test your new skills. Bring a notebook.

Location sent with registration
$65 (Students and seniors, $45)
This class can be applied towards Bushcraft Certificate

WINTER GET-TOGETHER, 10 a.m. FREE
2026-12-12 10:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
DECEMBER 12, 10 A.M.
WINTER GET-TOGETHER/ TRADE-BLANKET, FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF SCHOOL OF SELF-RELIANCE.
NO FEE, NO NEED FOR A “TICKET” — JUST SHOW UP! (DIRECTIONS below)
Our annual gathering for Friends and Family of the School of Self-Reliance.

We will have a “trade blanket” where several people will be having books, gear, knives, etc. for trade or sale.
We will also discuss what makes a good “survival kit” — so bring your kit if you want it “analyzed.”

We will also have most of Christopher’s books available, as well as GIFT CERTIFICATES.
BRING A FOLDING CHAIR!

We’ll meet and share some survival stories, including what should always be in your “survival pack” in order to be prepared for the unexpected.

Do you want to bring products for sale or trade? Please let Christopher know.

It’s a good time to get to know each other better, and learn more skills in a relaxed setting. Location 2, Hahamongna Watershed Park. DIRECTIONS: The park is located on Pasadena’s west side, bordering La Canada. Check your Google Maps to find it, and you’ll likely be exiting the 210 freeway. The park entrance is Foothill and Oak Grove Drive. Enter the park, drive in, stay on the upper road until you see the outdoor bathroom, and park. We’ll be by the tables there.
There is no fee, but let us know you’re coming!
