How To Start a Fire With a Batteries (5 Ways)

When the power goes out or you are in the middle of a survival situation where you need a fire it is easy to feel overwhelmed if you don’t have your usual fire-starting kit or expert skill with primitive fire-starting techniques.

rechargeable batteries and chargers

Fortunately, there is an easy, improvised way to get your fire started: using a common battery.

With just some basic scavenged or repurposed materials and a little knowledge, you can safely use a battery as an effective fire starter on demand.

In this article, I’ll explain several methods on how to do that so that you’re prepared when the time comes.

How Is It Possible To Start a Fire With a Battery?

We can use batteries to start a fire by exploiting the principles behind their function. Batteries store and release electricity by means of a chemical reaction involving two different substances – the anode and cathode.

When a conductive material is placed between these two terminals, it allows electricity to flow from one terminal to the other.

When installed in any of the innumerable devices that use them, it provides the device with power.

However, one of the necessary byproducts of producing electricity, and electricity conducting through a material, is heat.

Depending on the strength of the battery and the type of material we use with it, the item conducting the electricity can get hot. Real darn hot! We are talking glowing orange, hundreds of degrees hot.

By touching this screaming hot material to our tinder or kindling, we can easily ignite a fire.

The speed and reliability of these methods (assuming the battery has a good charge) are what makes this an invaluable method in your survival skills toolbox.

You Can Use AA, AAA, or 9V Batteries

One thing to keep in mind is that you can use these methods with basically any battery you can lay your hands on, though some batteries work a lot better than others.

Tiny batteries used in watches or small toys are almost never sufficient, but many common sizes are. This includes AA, AAA, and 9V batteries.

So long as you can access the terminals, they offer decent voltage, and are holding a good charge, they should work just fine.

The examples below reference AA and 9V batteries because they’re the most commonly available, but feel free to substitute a AAA anywhere you see a AA mentioned, or use a 9V in place of either.

Now let’s take a look at several different ways you can use a battery to start a fire.

Method #1: AA and a Piece of Wire

If you’re looking for a convenient and direct way to light your fire with good control, copper wire is all you’ll need.

All you need is an appropriately long piece of copper wire that easily reaches both terminals of your battery. Gather your supplies:

• AA or AAA battery
• Piece of copper wiring long enough to reach terminals on the battery
• Knife or wire cutters (to strip insulation).
• Tinder, kindling, and wood for fire.

Set up your kindling, place your tinder, and then do the following:

1. Strip the insulation from both ends and a short length in the middle of your wire.
2. Optionally, fold your wire in half to create a loop or coil where you removed the insulation from the center earlier. This will increase effectiveness.
3. Bend your wire so that its two ends securely make contact with either terminal on either side of the battery. Bend it into a shape that will allow good purchase and constant contact if needed!
4. Firmly press each end into both terminals as you hold onto to the battery with the other hand- be warned that it will get hot very quickly, so wear gloves or use something to protect yourself while performing this step!
5. Press the center area of your now hot wire against some tinder until the fire ignites. It won’t take long!

This is a tried and true technique that will amaze your friends and maybe save your life. But, as with all things, practice makes perfect.

So go ahead and try it out a few times before you find yourself in an emergency situation needing to rely on this skill.

Also keep in mind that your chosen battery will discharge quickly, so be prepared to drop a few dollars on practice.

Method #2: AA and a Piece of Steel Wool

Another classic battery fire-starting method, and one that is less controllable than using a wire, but easier to set up, and less likely to burn your hand if you are careful.

Same as before, you will need a AA battery, but this time steel wool instead of copper wire. Finer wool seems to be more effective, but most kinds will work. Gather your supplies:

• AA or AAA battery
• Steel wool (000 or 0000 preferably)
• Tinder, kindling, and wood for fire.

Now set up your kindling, place your tinder and then do the following:

1. Gently roll the steel wool into a loose rope, long enough to reach both terminals of the battery with some slack leftover.
2. Connect one end of the steel wool “rope” to the positive terminal and hold it in place.
3. Move close to your tinder; this method works really fast.
4. Connect the other end of your steel wool rope to the negative terminal. Caution: The middle of the steel wool bundle will become hot and start glowing brightly. Sparks are possible!
5. Finally, press embers from your steel wool into tinder until ignition occurs. Release one end of steel wool to halt current. Be careful not to get burned on loose embers!

Easy enough. Steel wool is a good option since it is so common and heats up almost instantly.

These are two of the most well-known and surest methods to light a fire with a battery, but there are several more worth knowing. Keep reading!

Method #3: AA and Aluminum Foil

This is a technique that is, frankly, somewhat fancier than the previous two. Nonetheless, it is highly effective with practice.

The advantage of this method is that, with some patience and control, you can get a steady hotspot that is hotter and easier to manage than the previous two methods.

You will need:

• AA or AAA battery,
• Aluminum foil (as thin as possible) or a foil-backed gum wrapper,
• Scissors, razor blades, or a sharp knife.

Set up your kindling and tinder as always, and then follow these steps:

1. Ensure that your aluminum foil can reach and make contact with both the terminals of the battery, then fold it in half lengthways.
2. Cut or carefully tear out a semi-circle shape from the foil’s center, leaving only a thin connection (anywhere from 1/8″ to 3/16″). Your foil piece should look like a stone arch when you’re done. Note that if the middle, thin part of the “arch” is too thick, it won’t get hot enough to guarantee ignition.
3. As with the other methods, hold one end of the foil against the positive terminal while bringing the battery close to your tinder source; once set use your free hand to press foil down on its negative terminal afterwards. Hold in place. Caution: The middle part of the foil will become extremely hot quickly!
4. Place hot part of foil against tinder gently; be careful not to break it or you will have to start over.
5. Watch for smoke, then ignition.

Note that you can also do this with two AA batteries like in the video below. More batteries means more power and increased chances the fire will start, but, as with all methods involving batteries, you have to make sure they are actually charged for this to work.

Method #4: 9V and Steel Wool

If you’re looking for an even faster and more impressive result when using steel wool, try using a 9V battery!

The 9V’s higher power output will rapidly superheat the steel wool, creating a bright shower of sparks and ember, and lots of heat.

This is my personal favorite method and one I’ve used many times with success. Setup is easy, so grab your gear:

• 9V Battery
• Steel wool (000 or 0000 recommended)
• Gloves (recommended)

Set your tinder for the fire and then do this:

1. Gather steel wool and shape it into a loose but compact wad, then hold it in one hand.
2. With your other hand, grab the battery with the terminals facing up.
3. Move the battery close to the tinder pile so that sparks can be easily directed at it.
4. Sweep wool across both of the batteries’ terminals; this should produce showers of sparks which you can direct where desired.
5. Repeat: Aim those fiery sparks toward your tinder stack. Eventually, it will ignite and start your fire.

As I said, this variation is definitely a bit more “showy”. A 9V and steel wool is great for starting fires in a hurry, but it does require some practice, and you’ll need to be cautious since a shower of sparks might ignite something you don’t want burning!

Method #5: 9V and a Lightbulb

The most technically impressive but most fragile and fiddly method on this list. Yes, it is indeed possible to light a fire with just a 9V battery and an incandescent lightbulb.

This is also, by far, the riskiest of all the methods on this list, since it involves breaking open the fragile globe of a lightbulb into razor sharp shards to access the soon to be blazing hot filaments inside.

But, sometimes needs must, right? Grab your gear:

• 9V Battery
• Incandescent lightbulb (not LED or Fluorescent)

Gloves (recommended)

Build your fire, then continue:

1. Remove glass from lightbulb. If the removal is proving difficult, use caution and cover it in cloth before gently breaking it with another hard object. Don’t damage filament inside, or it won’t work.
2. Carefully remove all glass and avoid getting cut.
3. Hold the battery in one hand, bulb in the other. Move close to tinder.
4. Touch the battery’s terminals to the metal base of bulb; the filament should glow brightly.
5. Carefully press the glowing filament to the tinder. Take care not to break the filament, it is very delicate!
6. Hold until ignition occurs.
7. Remove bulb from the battery.

If this method sounds tricky, that’s because it is. But if all you have is a battery and an old lightbulb you will be able to get the job done!

Just be careful around sharp glass and hot filaments, and consider how you might keep the now-exposed filament intact if you need to keep it as your fire starter.

Is it Possible to Use a Cell Phone or Other Device Battery?

If you don’t have a typical disposable battery, but do have a cell phone or other mobile device, you can use the battery from that instead and in much the same way.

The trick is figuring out where the terminals are on these batteries and sometimes accessing them: for built-in batteries you might need to break the device to get them out.

When you have the battery in hand, look for the electrical terminals. These are usually gold metal, and located either on opposing sides of the battery or on one side and all in a line. Use these as you would with any other method.

But be warned! Mobile device batteries are usually higher voltage, and have a much higher capacity than even 9V batteries…

Lithium-ion catalysts are highly energetic and can explosively combust if mishandled or overheated. So, by all means try this method, but be safe and use extreme caution when doing so!

Is it Safe to Use Batteries for Fire Starting?

Yes, if you know what you are doing and are cautious. However, no battery manufacturer would ever consent to such use.

So long as you take care to avoid injury and do not allow the battery to fall into the fire you should be ok.

Also, always make sure you have water or an appropriate fire extinguisher at the ready in case of emergencies.

If your fire goes out of control or something catches on fire that you’d rather not a little boo-boo from a battery will be the least of your worries. And don’t worry: water will work on a lithium battery fire if your cell phone battery brews up somehow.

Can You Use Batteries Normally After Using them to Start a Fire?

This depends on the type of battery utilized and how much charge it had when used for fire starting. Some may be able to retain some charge, but others may be completely depleted after a single use.

Will Old Batteries Work for Fire Starting?

Older batteries may not have enough charge to ignite tinder as effectively, so in general it is better to use a newer battery if you can.

That being said, if the old battery still has some juice left you should be able to make use of it – just know that it might take longer or fail.

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/gxiSo4T

The Top 15 Things To Own When the Dollar Collapses

No society, or its currency, lasts forever. The Roman Empire collapsed and took the Denarius with it. The fall of Germany led to the hyperinflation of the Weimar Republic. Be it next year or next decade, the United States dollar will collapse.

At this point, it’s a mathematical certainty. Either through our national debt and liabilities or the actions of our financial enemies, the global dominance of the US dollar will end.

When this time comes, you will need to be prepared by exchanging your dollars for more tangible goods.

The goal here is to preserve your overall value for when the dollar re-surges or to convert your dollars into something more exchangeable (barter).

Think of the stories of the Weimar Republic (exaggerated or not) where a citizen would bring a wheelbarrow full of cash to the grocery store. Soon after the wheelbarrow was stolen, and the cash was left.

When money loses value, history has taught us that any cash that isn’t turned into hard goods is soon worthless. Let’s look at the 15 things to own when the dollar meets its eventual end.

1. Gold

The king of dense value is gold. From biblical times to modern times, gold is one of the best stores of wealth. Collect 1 ounce and fractional coins.

When the time comes, it will be easier to hand over a single gold coin vs a stack of silver or a truckful of paper money. Gold options to purchase include:

• Paper gold certificates: Paper notes with 1/1000^th of an ounce of gold foil
• Fractional gold coins: 1/10^th to ½ ounce coins allowing you to purchase gold in smaller quantities
• 1 oz. gold coins: American gold eagles, Krugerrands, and Chinese gold pandas are the most recognizable
• Gold bars: If we could all be so lucky!

2. Silver

Silver has been just as popular throughout history as gold, but worth a fraction per ounce. Silver collectors around the world recognize that silver is easy to stack.

Purchasing an ounce of silver is much more affordable than an ounce of gold. As the dollar spirals out of control, the value of silver is near guaranteed to skyrocket.

Silver options to purchase include:

• Junk Silver: Traditionally known as Junk Silver, these coins are US dimes, quarters, half dollars minted before 1964 and contain 90% silver
• Fractional silver: 1/10^th to ½ ounce coins and bars allowing you to purchase silver in smaller quantities
• 1 oz. silver coins: American Silver Eagles, Canadian Maple Leaves, British Britannia’s, and Australian kangaroos are cheap and easy to stack
• Silver bars: 5 ounce all the way up to 100 ounce and 1 kilogram bars will be a great store of larger volumes of wealth

3. Other Metals

Your safe doesn’t need to be stacked with only gold and silver. Other metals have value that may be useful in times of need.

Collecting all-copper pennies and true nickels is currently very easy and may be worth real money in the future.

All nickels are worth more in melt value (value of the base metal) than the face value of the coins. The same goes for pennies minted in 1981 or earlier.

While it’s illegal to melt them down currently, they may be exchangeable at a future date for much more than their face value. Metals to stock up on now are:

• 1981 and earlier pennies: Minted with 100% copper, they have a metal value above their face price
• All nickels: See pure copper pennies
• Platinum coins and bars: Less know than gold or silver, but just as valuable

4. Small Barter Items

Barter items are always good to have on hand. Even little items can be useful in times of scarcity. Your imagination is the only limit of the possibilities. Some ideas include:

• Entertainment: Even in the best of times we get bored, in the worst of times we need distractions, stock up on few boxes of books, board games, and stacks of DVDs
• Hygiene: Toothpaste to shampoo and everything in between is valuable to someone who hasn’t prepared and needs a washup
• Canned goods: Even the most common canned goods can provide variety to someone’s meal
• Batteries and chargers: the ability to keep a radio running or a game (to keep the kiddos occupied) may be all the difference to the bored and information starved

5. Large Barter Items

Where there is no money, barter rules. When you need to exchange for something big, you need to have something equally valuable.

Generators, communication (HAM radios), even clothing — specifically winter clothing (hit the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and other thrift stores for cheap stockpiles of bulk clothing).

Don’t stop there, Solar systems, heating and cooling systems, as well as water processing options will all gain value as the dollar collapses.

People will always want the convenience of electricity as well as the comforts that they have been used to.

As a result, they will pay or trade handsomely for those items. Soon, the paper you invested will grow in value several times over.

Large barter items to exchange for your cash include:

• Generators: The world runs on electricity and generators are the easiest method to replace grid power
• Solar arrays and components: Requires no fuel, however you need more than you think to run a household
• Clothing: Jackets, hats, long johns, and especially footwear, will wear out and replacements will become valuable
• Vehicle and engine parts: From small engines (chainsaws) to tractors and cars, have the ability to fix the main wear parts (carburetors, tires, breaks, etc.)
• Gasoline and other fuels: Propane cylinders (large and small) as well as gas will be scarce when society fails, make sure to rotate your stored gas

6. Foreign Investments

Foreign stocks, mutual funds, and bonds are sound investments during strong times. When the dollar collapses, investors will panic for safe havens for their investments.

Bonds are traditionally more stable than other investments however they tend to earn less than stocks and mutual funds.

In times of financial stress you are looking to preserve your value as gains will be few and far between.

Move your money into foreign bonds of historically stable countries such as Australia and New Zealand.

7. Livestock

Protein is one of the hardest foods to store. Keeping it “on the hoof” is the best way to have a fresh supply.

From rabbits and chickens to goats and cows, livestock, if you have the room, is a worthwhile investment.

As things spiral out of control, purchasing a brace of rabbits or a small flock of chickens will return your investment many times over.

Remember, a single buck (male rabbit) and four does (female rabbits) will meet the protein needs of a family of four over the course of a year.

• Chickens and quail: Valuable for their meat and eggs, quail are especially easy and quiet to raise
• Rabbits: One of the most prolific sources of protein available for the homeowner
• Goats: Valuable for both their milk and meat are easy to raise as they will eat almost anything
• Horses: A good pair of working horses can get you around town and help around the homestead
• Cows: While it can take a few years to grow a cow to full size, a cow can mean hundreds of pounds of meat in the freezer

8. Land

If you have the funds, then land makes a great investment. Especially if it is of high quality and able to host a garden. As the saying goes, they aren’t making any more land.

Be it for development, farming, or for an off-grid cabin, land is a great store of significant cash. Options for sourcing land include:

• Traditional real-estate transactions: A realtor will be the easiest way to find raw land
• Craigslist: For sale by owner may get you land at a discount
• Land lease: If access is what you are looking for, then a lease may be the best option for you

9. Security

As the dollar collapses, societal collapse will go hand in hand with it. The means of securing your property and protecting will take top priority.

Further, if you can store extras of your favorite defensive tools, then consider storing enough to barter with to help ensure the security of your neighbors and neighborhood.

• Defensive tools: You know what works best
• Expendables: Cleaning and maintenance supplies
• Cameras\drones: Expand visualization beyond your immediate perimeter
• Trip wires and other perimeter alarms: It’s always best to know if something is coming from as far away as possible

10. Foreign Currency

The saying goes that when the US gets a cold, the world gets the flu. While this is largely true, there are safe havens.

Travelex has booths at most airports and will allow you to convert reasonable amounts of cash into foreign currencies (e.g., Swiss Franc).

11. Cryptocurrency

Although the universe of cryptocurrencies is rapidly changing, Bitcoin and some of the other popular currencies are a great way to store money without having to keep it in your mattress.

Buyer beware, laws are evolving and it is possible to be locked out of your coin of choice or to have massive swings in value.

12. Tools and Supplies

Things will always break; therefore, we will always need the ability to fix them. When currency is dying, even a hammer will gain value if you’ve lost the ability to replace it.

Exchange your currency for hammers, drills, saws, nails, screws, anything that can be used to accomplish common repairs:

• Hammers: How many of your suburban neighbors actually have a hammer
• Saws: From hand saws to power saws have several of each to barter
• Drills: Even hand drills make the job easier
• Wrenches: That 10mm socket will not find itself
• Hand planes: When you have rough wood to work with, a planer is one of the few ways to solve the problem
• Nails/screws/nuts/bolts/glue: It’s almost impossible to do joinery without nuts, bolts, and nails

13. Water

Without water, we are dead in three days, while our ability to function is diminished long before that.

From mechanical filters to chemical purification, filtration is a requirement to avoid a life-threatening illness. Items to stock up on include:

• Berkey water filter: The standard for purifying water in the home, any of the similar models will serve you well for tens of thousands of gallons
• Sawyer personal filter: When filtering on the road, a smaller filter is a requirement, stock up on them by the case for barter
• Pool shock: Calcium Hypochlorite must be the only ingredient, with a one-pound bag you can sanitize tens of thousands of gallons of water

14. Bulk Food

We can survive weeks without food, but who wants to? Additionally, it’s a good bet your neighbors aren’t prepared. If you can share with them, you can form a community.

Long-term storage foods (beans, rice, pasta, oats) are the best hedge against food insecurity. Stock up on calories and variety:

• Beans and rice: A large portion of the world lives on beans and rice, they’re one of the cheapest forms of calories to stack
• Pasta: Pasta, properly packaged, lasts for decades
• Wheat: Wheat can last almost forever, make sure to learn how to sprout it or purchase a grinder
• Freeze-dried: Expensive, but one of the best ways to add variety to a diet
• Proteins: Expensive and short-lived unless freeze-dried, if you’re canning your own, make sure to rotate them

15. Skills and Services

There are materials and then there’s mindset. Tools are useless without the knowledge to use them. Investing now in classes can be one of the best stores of wealth.

Spending a little money now to gain and master a skill may be the most valuable investment you ever make. Classes to take include:

• First aid and trauma medicine: The ability to save a life and manage traumatic injury may literally be the difference between life and death, additionally the knowledge gained will guide your selection and purchase of additional medical gear
• Foraging: Do you have the ability to extend your food stores with nature’s abundance, if not, maybe you should
• Animal husbandry: Rabbits may do their thing, but when you are depending on the next batch of kits, you will want to help them along to make every brood successful
• Gardening: Ever try to start a garden from scratch, it’s much more complicated than you can imagine
• Security skills: From armed combat to unarmed combat, these skills are non-trivial to master and perishable
• Food preservation: Can a vegetable or meat the wrong way and it may kill you, get the skills now

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/qhOeFLZ

West Virginia State Trespassing Laws

If you want to keep your property safe and protected from trespassers and avoid trespassing when you are out on an adventure, you’ll need a thorough understanding of your home state’s trespassing laws.

Only by understanding the trespassing laws in your state will you know precisely where your rights begin when it comes to properties you control, and know what is demanded of you when it comes to respecting the property of others.

But, just like every other law in the land, each and every state puts its own spin on its trespass statutes.

Today we are looking at West Virginia. West Virginia’s trespassing laws are not particularly difficult to understand.

They are extremely long, and that means you’ll have to read for a while and read carefully if you want to understand them in their entirety.

You’ll definitely want to know about the signage requirements in the state and also the punishments and financial penalties should you trespass on someone else’s property.

Keep reading, and I will tell you more.

West Virginia Trespassing Law Overview

• Most types of trespassing in West Virginia are misdemeanors, but a few specific violations are felonies.
• West Virginia has many special statutes covering trespassing on government property, railroads, schools, mines, and other installations.
• West Virginia requires posted signage for protecting certain kinds of property.

What Constitutes Trespassing in West Virginia?

Though the common definition of trespassing is well understood, every state has its own specific definition as it applies to use throughout the statutes on the subject.

In the case of West Virginia, trespass is usually specifically defined in the context of each statute describing the crime.

But it can be broadly described as knowingly entering or remaining on the property of another without a license, invitation, or authorization and doing so knowingly.

Depending on whether or not the property is fenced or posted with no-trespassing signs this might increase the severity of the violation.

As I mentioned above in the introduction, West Virginia is unfortunately another state with tons and tons of lengthy laws on the subject, and that means you have lots of reading to do but below there is an excerpt from 61-3B-3 which defines trespassing on a property other than a structure or conveyance:

61-3B-3. Trespass on Property Other Than Structure or Conveyance
(a) It is an unlawful trespass for any person to knowingly, and without being authorized, licensed or invited, to enter or remain on any property, other than a structure or conveyance, as to which notice against entering or remaining is either given by actual communication to such person or by posting, fencing or cultivation.
(b) First offense conviction. — Upon a first trespassing conviction pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not less than $100 nor more than $500.
(c) Second offense conviction. — Upon a second trespassing conviction pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not less than $500 nor more than $1,000.
(d) Third offense conviction. — Upon a third and subsequent trespassing conviction pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not less than $1,000 nor more than $1,500.
(…)

Does West Virginia Require “No Trespassing” Signs?

Yes. No-trespassing signs are required for protecting certain kinds of property in West Virginia assuming they are not fenced or specific, personal notice is not given to individuals who may trespass.

Additionally, West Virginia has fairly specific requirements for posting signage, namely the interval, the size of the text on the sign, and a requirement for posting at entrances to the property and at driveways.

You can read about the specific posting requirements for signage in 61-3B-1:

61-3B-1. Definitions
(4) “Posted land” is land that has:
(…)
(A) Signs placed not more than five hundred feet apart, along and at each corner of the boundaries of the land. The signs shall be reasonably maintained, with letters of not less than two inches in height and the words “no trespassing”. The signs shall be placed along the boundary line and at all roads, driveways and gates of entry onto the posted land so as to be clearly noticeable from outside of the boundary line; or
(…)
(C) It is not necessary to give notice by posting on any enclosed land or place not exceeding five acres in area on which there is a dwelling house or property that by its nature and use is obviously private in order to obtain the benefits of this article pertaining to trespass on enclosed lands.
(…)

Is Fencing Required to Protect Property?

No, not strictly required but in closing most properties with fencing that is manifestly designed to exclude intruders, on foot or in a vehicle, basically counts as a notice against trespassing.

Just a reminder, if your property is unfenced and over a certain size with or without a residential property on it you’ll definitely want to post no-trespassing signs.

What Other Marks Indicate “No Trespassing”?

Purple paint. West Virginia is one of a handful of states that use purple paint laws when it comes to marking property against trespassing.

These laws got their common name for the exact reason you are thinking: the law specifies the use of purple paint bands or stripes for posting a property instead of using signage.

This is simple enough in itself, but just like when posting signage you’ll have to adhere to state-mandated requirements if you want the law to back you up should anyone decide to trespass on your posted property.

In West Virginia, these paint markings must be vertical lines of at least two inches and width and 8 inches in length, placed between 3 feet and 6 feet over the surface of the ground or water on a tree, fence post, or other terrain feature.

Once again, you can read these exact requirements for yourself taken from 61-3B-1:

61-3B-1. Definitions
(…)
(B) Boundaries marked with a clearly visible purple painted marking, consisting of one vertical line no less than eight inches in length and two inches in width, and the bottom of the mark not less than three nor more than six feet from the ground or normal water surface. Such marks shall be affixed to immovable, permanent objects that are no more than one hundred feet apart and readily visible to any person approaching the property. Signs shall also be posted at all roads, driveways or gates of entry onto the posted land so as to be clearly noticeable from outside the boundary line.
(…)

Can Solicitors Ignore “No Trespassing” Signs?

No. Solicitors as a rule cannot ignore a no-trespassing sign in West Virginia, though this is still likely to happen in urban and suburban areas especially if the solicitor is feeling bold.

That being said, they should never ignore a no-trespassing sign in a rural area, and under no circumstances can they bypass a fence, closed and locked gate, or other obstacles to entry and get away with it.

Can Trespassing Result in Arrest in West Virginia?

Yes, it can. Contrary to the opinions of some people, trespassing is a crime and is sometimes a crime with serious consequences.

In West Virginia, pretty much every kind of trespassing is a misdemeanor and that can result in a fine and potentially time in jail.

Felony trespassing charges can result in substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. Think twice before trespassing on government property on any sensitive installation!

Can You Take Someone to Court for Trespassing?

Yes, definitely. Anyone who flagrantly trespasses on your property in defiance of posted signage, a specific order to stay away, or crosses fencing to do so can easily find themselves dragged into court.

The same applies if someone trespasses maliciously in order to commit or further another crime in progress, if they damage property while trespassing or if they do it to harass or threaten the property owner.

Special Instances of Trespassing in West Virginia

West Virginia has so many special statutes covering specific circumstances of trespassing that I cannot possibly list them all here.

One of the most relevant, though, for residents of West Virginia is found in 61-3B-6, which covers trespassing in surface and subsurface mines.

Sometimes popular hangouts for shooting, exploring, spelunking, and other activities are nonetheless illicit if you don’t have permission to be there:

61-3B-6. Mine Trespass; Penalties
(a) A person who willfully enters an underground coal mine, whether active workings, inactive workings, or abandoned workings, without permission, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof shall be imprisoned in a correctional facility not less than one year and nor more than 10 years and shall be fined not less than $5,000 nor more than $10,000: Provided, That for any conviction pursuant to this subsection, any inactive or abandoned underground workings must be either: (1) Sealed; or (2) clearly identified by signage at some conspicuous place near the entrance of the mine that includes a notice that the unauthorized entry into the mine is a felony criminal offense.
(…)

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/3AIPx1u

Wyoming State Trespassing Laws

Trespassing is serious business. You might not think there is very much wrong with traipsing onto someone’s land for one reason or another, but I’m willing to bet you’ll feel very differently if someone is on your land.

Whether you think it is a proper crime or just more like disrespect, the law tells us that trespassing is indeed punishable with fines and jail time.

Accordingly, it is in your best interest to learn the trespassing law from front to back in your home state.

This is the only way you’ll know the precise extent of your rights, and also know what is expected of you when it comes to respecting the property of others.

But the law is different concerning trespassing in every single state, sometimes by a little and sometimes by a lot.

Wyoming is a state with few and entirely clear statutes concerning trespassing. Even so, you definitely need to know what they are.

Keep reading and we will tell you everything that you should know about Wyoming’s trespassing laws.

Wyoming Trespassing Law Overview

• Trespassing is almost always a misdemeanor in Wyoming.
• Trespassing can be a felony in only one instance: unlawful entry of an occupied structure intending to commit battery against the occupants.
• Wyoming has few statutes concerning trespassing compared to other states.

What Constitutes Trespassing in Wyoming?

The specific definition of trespassing matters from state to state, and you should never assume that they give in the state uses the common definition in a legal context.

Knowing the illegal definition of trespassing, or unlawful entry, is the only way to make sense of the statutes.

In Wyoming, criminal trespass is defined as entering in or remaining upon the land or premises belonging to another person with a person entering knowing that they are not authorized to do so or have been notified that they cannot enter.

Notification, in this context, can be direct personal communication from the owner or the owner’s agent or the presence of a posted signage that shows the property is off-limits to trespassers.

Definitely, a mouthful compared to the common definition, but you can read this for yourself in section 6-3-303:

6-3-303. Criminal trespass; penalties.
(a) A person is guilty of criminal trespass if he enters or remains on or in the land or premises of another person, knowing he is not authorized to do so, or after being notified to depart or to not trespass. For purposes of this section, notice is given by:
(i) Personal communication to the person by the owner or occupant, or his agent, or by a peace officer; or
(ii) Posting of signs reasonably likely to come to the attention of intruders.
(b) Criminal trespass is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, a fine of not more than seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), or both.
(c) This section does not supersede W.S. 1-21-1003.
…

Does Wyoming Require “No Trespassing” Signs?

No. No-trespassing signs are not truly required in Wyoming, but they are a very good idea considering they serve as notice against trespassing when posted around a property in places reasonably likely to come to the intention of intruders.

Considering your alternative is to directly and personally notify trespassers or potential trespassers, you are duly advised to put up signage!

Is Fencing Required to Protect Property?

No. Fencing is not required to protect property in Wyoming.

What Other Marks Indicate “No Trespassing”?

None. Some states have implemented “purple paint” laws for posting property against trespassing, often used as an alternative to posting signage or erecting fences.

These laws get their name, as you might expect, because they typically prescribe the use of vivid purple paint on tree trunks, fence posts, and other terrain features to let people know they are approaching the boundary of someone else’s property and that trespassing is forbidden.

Not the case in Wyoming, though: You’ll have to put up signs.

Can Solicitors Ignore “No Trespassing” Signs?

No. Solicitors are wise to obey posted no-trespassing signage in Wyoming, particularly since so much of the state is truly rural.

Now, solicitors who are feeling pretty bold might ignore a no-trespassing sign posted in a suburban neighborhood or even an urban area in a larger city since they are, in a way, asking the property owner for permission to be there. But this is not advisable.

In any case, no solicitor can ignore a closed or locked gate or other barriers to entry across your driveway or sidewalk.

Can Trespassing Result in Arrest in Wyoming?

Absolutely. Wyoming is pretty serious when it comes to trespassing, and flagrant trespass in defiance of signage or direct notification, trespassing in a building or vehicle, and other similar crimes can result in pretty serious misdemeanor charges with multi-hundred dollar fines and a jail stay of up to 6 months.

You can see for yourself in a section 6-3-302, covering criminal entry penalties:

6-3-302. Criminal entry; penalties; affirmative defenses.
(a) A person is guilty of criminal entry if, without authority, he knowingly enters a building, occupied structure, vehicle or cargo portion of a truck or trailer, or a separately secured or occupied portion of those enclosures.
(b) It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this section that:
(i) The entry was made because of a mistake of fact or to preserve life or property in an emergency;
(ii) The enclosure was abandoned;
(iii) The enclosure was at the time open to the public and the person complied with all lawful conditions imposed on access to or remaining in the enclosure; or
(iv) The person reasonably believed that the owner of the enclosure, or other person empowered to license access to the enclosure, would have authorized him to enter.
(c) Criminal entry is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, a fine of not more than seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), or both.
…

Can You Take Someone to Court for Trespassing?

Yes, you can. If someone is a flagrant trespasser, a repeat offender, or is trespassing with the intention of harassing, threatening, or stalking you then you definitely have a case for hauling them into court.

Similarly, any trespasser who causes damage to fencing, land, or any other property during the course of their trespassing, or who just substantially violates your privacy or right to quiet domain, might likewise find themselves the target of a lawsuit.

Keep that in mind, too, if you are a hunter, hiker, or anyone else who spends a lot of time working and traveling outdoors so that you don’t accidentally trespass on someone else’s property and wind up in the same situation.

Special Instances of Trespassing in Wyoming

Wyoming has only a few statutes covering trespassing, and fewer covering special instances of trespassing, but one important one is found in 6-3-202, altering landmarks and the penalties for doing so.

In short, anyone who interferes with any marker, installation, monument, or tree that is used to designate the corner or boundary of a parcel of land is facing another stiff misdemeanor charge.

You can read an excerpt from 6-3-202 just below:

6-3-202. Altering landmarks; penalties.
(a) A person is guilty of altering landmarks if, with intent to destroy or deface the mark on a monument, landmark or bearing-tree designating the corner or boundary of a tract of land, he knowingly:
(i) Displaces the monument or landmark;
(ii) Defaces or alters the mark; or
(iii) Breaks, cuts down or removes the monument, landmark or bearing-tree.
(b) Altering landmarks is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, a fine of not more than seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), or both.

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/IosYCaK

Vermont State Trespassing Laws

Trespassing is one of those things that all property owners instinctively get upset about. The idea that someone is on our land, without our permission, is enough to make your blood boil even if they aren’t hurting anything.

The nerve of some people!

But understanding your state’s trespassing laws is important if you want to know exactly where your rights begin and end when it comes to keeping people off of your property, and also so you can avoid trespassing accidentally on someone else’s land.

However, this task is complicated somewhat by the fact that all trespassing laws are different in every state.

Though usually pretty similar, penalties and specifics regarding notification and other factors can vary quite a bit.

When it comes to Vermont, they don’t mess around. The laws on trespassing are short and clear, and trespassing in the state is typically a misdemeanor but it can be a felony charge in specific instances.

Keep reading and we will tell you everything you need to know about the most important parts of Vermont’s trespass laws.

Vermont Trespassing Law Overview

• Most types of trespassing in Vermont are misdemeanors.
• Trespassing in a dwelling May rate felony charges.
• Vermont has special statutes that detail trespassing while in a vehicle.

What Constitutes Trespassing in Vermont?

Vermont defines trespassing as entering or remaining on any land or any place belonging to another person lacking the permission of that person if notice against trespassing is given by specific communication to the individual, or by posted signs.

Basically, if a property does not belong to you and you don’t have the permission of the property owner to be there and you enter or remain on that property and defiance of an order to stay away from the property or defines of posted no-trespassing signs, then you are committing unlawful trespass 

You can read the exact text of the relevant law for yourself in section 3705 below:

3705. Unlawful trespass
(a)(1) A person shall be imprisoned for not more than three months or fined not more than $500.00, or both, if, without legal authority or the consent of the person in lawful possession, he or she enters or remains on any land or in any place as to which notice against trespass is given by:
(A) actual communication by the person in lawful possession or his or her agent or by a law enforcement officer acting on behalf of such person or his or her agent;
(B) signs or placards so designed and situated as to give reasonable notice; or
(C) in the case of abandoned property:
(i) signs or placards, posted by the owner, the owner’s agent, or a law enforcement officer, and so designed and situated as to give reasonable notice; or
(ii) actual communication by a law enforcement officer.
(2) As used in this subsection, “abandoned property” means:
(A) real property on which there is a vacant structure that for the previous 60 days has been continuously unoccupied by a person with the legal right to occupy it and with respect to which the municipality has by first-class mail to the owner’s last known address provided the owner with notice and an opportunity to be heard; and
(…)

Does Vermont Require “No Trespassing” Signs?

Vermont does require the posting of no-trespassing signage to notify would-be trespassers against doing so assuming that the property owner has not communicated with them directly that they are not allowed to be on or remain on the property.

Although no specific mention of requirements is given in the appropriate section, it is a good idea to post highly visible, contrasting signs around the perimeter of your property at regular intervals and at every typical entrance to the property to be safe.

Is Fencing Required to Protect Property?

No. Fencing does not factor into trespassing on private property, only posted signage or direct notification to the trespasser by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

What Other Marks Indicate “No Trespassing”?

None. Some states rely on what is commonly referred to as purple paint or orange paint walls for posting property against trespassers, but Vermont is not one of them.

Increasingly, many people know what visible slashes of paint on trees or fence posts mean, but since the law does not incorporate them in Vermont you won’t be able to count on them as a legal notice against trespassers. Post your signs, no exceptions!

Can Solicitors Ignore “No Trespassing” Signs?

Generally not. Although the state rarely makes a case out of it for solicitors and suburban neighborhoods, the same cannot be said for more rural areas.

In any case, solicitors ignore no-trespassing signs at their own peril.

Also, under no circumstances can a solicitor circumvent a closed or locked gate, fence, or other barriers to entry

Can Trespassing Result in Arrest in Vermont?

Absolutely. Vermont treats trespassing seriously, and even misdemeanor crimes of trespassing can still result in substantial fines and a jail term of up to a year.

Trespassing in a dwelling can result in fines of several thousand dollars and potentially a prison sentence, making it a felony.

Can You Take Someone to Court for Trespassing?

Yes. As mentioned above, Vermont frowns heavily on trespassing, and any trespasser that does so repeatedly, with the intention of committing another crime on the property or furthering a crime in progress, or in doing so causes damage to land or other possessions will certainly find themselves hauled into court if the owner of the property wants to press the issue.

Special Instances of Trespassing in Vermont

Vermont has a few special statutes covering trespassing, but perhaps the one that is most important to your average person is found in section 3739, as it covers the operation of vehicles on state-owned land.

Doing so in a way that violates this statute might entail trespass. Read the exact text for yourself immediately below:

3739. Operation of vehicles on state owned land
(a) A person who operates a motor vehicle, as defined in 23 V.S.A. § 4, on any land that is owned or held by the State:
(1) except in places or on trails specifically designated and marked by the Secretary of Natural Resources; or
(2) contrary to any rule governing the use of the place or trail shall be fined not more than $500.00. For the purposes of this section “land owned or held by the State” does not include a highway as defined in 23 V.S.A. § 4.
(b) The Secretary of Natural Resources may by rule designate a place or trail for use by motor vehicles when it finds that natural, fish and wildlife, and other recreational activities or aesthetic values will not be substantially adversely affected. The Secretary may by rule specify under which weather and trail conditions or at which times or hours of the day designated trails or places may not be used.

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/uWhbHMY

Wisconsin State Trespassing Laws

Some people think of trespassing as a petty violation, a crime so minor that it hardly warrants worrying about. But this just isn’t the truth: trespassing is still a crime, wherever it occurs in the United States, and in some states it is a very serious crime under the wrong circumstances.

Accordingly, you’ll want to understand the trespassing law in your home state not only so you can keep people off of your property but also so you can avoid accidentally trespassing on someone else’s property.

But every state’s laws on trespassing are a little bit different, just like everything else in the good old US of A.

Looking at Wisconsin, you’ll find that their trespassing laws are very long, confusingly written, and in no way intuitive to those uninitiated in legal language or proceedings.

But we are here to help you make sense of the most important concepts in Wisconsin’s state statutes, so grab your reading glasses, sharpen your pencil and let’s get going.

Wisconsin Trespassing Law Overview

• Most kinds of trespassing in Wisconsin are misdemeanors, but some violations, like trespassing into vital utility infrastructure installations, are felonies.
• Wisconsin’s trespassing statutes are very lengthy and spread out, with definitions, defenses and so forth scattered around. Read thoroughly!
• Wisconsin has many specific restrictions on the carry of firearms onto the property of other people that must be obeyed.

What Constitutes Trespassing in Wisconsin?

Pretty much everyone knows what trespassing is, instinctively, but what the actual definition is varies from state to state, and as you might imagine is very important for understanding the law.

Unfortunately, Wisconsin does not make it easy to get down to a brass-tacks definition thanks to the long way they have the statutes laid out.

But, I can help with that: Wisconsin broadly defines trespassing as entering in or remaining upon the land or premises of another person lacking explicit permission from the property owner or the property owner’s agent or doing so in defiance of posted no-trespassing signage or fencing that is specifically designed to keep people out.

That is a summary, but you can read the exact text of the statute in 943.13, a looong statute that will be referred to several times.

Again, just a reminder, Wisconsin’s laws on trespassing are many, and we are only including excerpts here. Make sure you look them up for yourself in their entirety!

943.13 Trespass to land.
(…)
(1e) In this section:
(1m) Whoever does any of the following is subject to a Class B forfeiture:
(a) Enters any enclosed, cultivated or undeveloped land of another, other than open land specified in par. (e) or (f), without the express or implied consent of the owner or occupant.
(am) Enters any land of another that is occupied by a structure used for agricultural purposes without the express or implied consent of the owner or occupant.
(b) Enters or remains on any land of another after having been notified by the owner or occupant not to enter or remain on the premises. This paragraph does not apply to a licensee or out-of-state licensee if the owner’s or occupant’s intent is to prevent the licensee or out-of-state licensee from carrying a firearm on the owner’s or occupant’s land.
(…)

Does Wisconsin Require “No Trespassing” Signs?

Yes, for protecting certain kinds of property and also for serving as notice against trespass and the absence of a fence or specific, direct notification to an individual verbally or in writing.

I will also point out that Wisconsin is one of several states that have highly specific requirements for the posting of no-trespassing signage, specifically the size of the sign, how and where the signage must be posted, the title of the person that is legally posting the sign that is in control of the property and other factors.

Once more, you can read this for yourself in section 943.13 a little further down. The relevant parts are copied in their entirety below:

943.13 Trespass to land.
(2)
(…)
(am) A person has received notice from the owner or occupant within the meaning of sub. (1m) (b), (e) or (f) if he or she has been notified personally, either orally or in writing, or if the land is posted. Land is considered to be posted under this paragraph under either of the following procedures:
1. If a sign at least 11 inches square is placed in at least 2 conspicuous places for every 40 acres to be protected. The sign must provide an appropriate notice and the name of the person giving the notice followed by the word “owner” if the person giving the notice is the holder of legal title to the land and by the word “occupant” if the person giving the notice is not the holder of legal title but is a lawful occupant of the land. Proof that appropriate signs as provided in this subdivision were erected or in existence upon the premises to be protected prior to the event complained of shall be prima facie proof that the premises to be protected were posted as provided in this subdivision.
2. If markings at least one foot long, including in a contrasting color the phrase “private land” and the name of the owner, are made in at least 2 conspicuous places for every 40 acres to be protected.
(bm)
1. In this paragraph, “ sign” means a sign that states a restriction imposed under subd. 2. that is at least 5 inches by 7 inches.
(…)

Is Fencing Required to Protect Property?

No. Fencing is not strictly required to protect your property from trespassers under the law, though enclosing a property with fencing that is manifestly designed to work as a barrier against entry essentially counts as a notification against trespassing.

Said another way, any trespasser who crosses or circumvents a fence to enter your property is going to be facing more serious charges.

What Other Marks Indicate “No Trespassing”?

None. There are some states out there, and an increasing number of them, that allow the use of high visibility purple or orange fluorescent spray paint to mark the boundaries of a property and give notice against trespassing, but Wisconsin is not one of them.

It should also be noted that even though the presence of these markings on trees, fence posts and other features is increasingly common knowledge that does not mean the law will back you up if that is all you are using to mark your property against trespassers.

Any spray paint markings that you make or for reference and your convenience only.

If you aren’t going to put up a fence you’ll still need to put up those no-trespassing signs.

Can Solicitors Ignore “No Trespassing” Signs?

Generally not, though some brazen ones will if they are in a suburban or urban residential area because they are, in essence, directly approaching the owner of the property to ask for permission to be on the property, i.e. asking for a little bit of your time in order to deliver their pitch.

On the other hand, no solicitor is wise to ignore a posted no-trespassing sign in a rural or remote area, and under no conditions can they bypass a closed or locked gate that blocks access to your property, driveway or sidewalk.

Can Trespassing Result in Arrest in Wisconsin?

Yes, it absolutely can. Wisconsin, overall, is pretty serious about trespassing.

Though most kinds of trespassing charges are misdemeanors, misdemeanors can still put you in jail for a time, and more serious forms of trespassing will rate felony charges with major fines and prison sentences.

Can You Take Someone to Court for Trespassing?

Yes, definitely. As described above, trespassing is a fairly serious crime in Wisconsin, and anyone who trespasses repeatedly or in order to further or commit another crime will certainly find themselves dragged into court under most circumstances.

Likewise anyone who trespasses and damages land or other property belonging to the owner of the real estate will find themselves in the crosshairs of a lawsuit.

Special Instances of Trespassing in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has many special statutes concerning trespassing, and some of the most prolific trespassing concerns while carrying a firearm.

Below is one example, again taken from section 943.13. You definitely don’t want to be charged with trespassing, and you really, really don’t want to be charged with trespassing while carrying a firearm!

943.13 Trespass to land.
(c)
(…)
2. While carrying a firearm, enters or remains in any part of a nonresidential building, grounds of a nonresidential building, or land that the actor does not own or occupy after the owner of the building, grounds, or land, if that part of the building, grounds, or land has not been leased to another person, or the occupant of that part of the building, grounds, or land has notified the actor not to enter or remain in that part of the building, grounds, or land while carrying a firearm or with that type of firearm. (…)
…

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/z3juDt9

Washington State Trespassing Laws

If you own land or property, rent it, lease it or have any other legal entitlement to it you will definitely want to understand the trespassing laws in your state.

Only by understanding these laws will you know where your rights begin and end concerning a given piece of real estate, and just as importantly know what you can do about people who decide to trespass on it.

Though the trespassing laws are largely similar wherever you go, there is still plenty of variation in each of the 50 states.

Looking at Washington State, for instance, you’ll find that the trespassing laws are clearly worded, easily understood, and straightforward.

There are signage requirements for posting certain kinds of property against trespassing if specific verbal communication with an individual has not been made, but you see laws like that in many places.

Keep reading and we will tell you everything you need to know about Washington’s trespassing laws.

Washington Trespassing Law Overview

• All kinds of trespassing in Washington are misdemeanor crimes.
• Fencing is not required for protecting undeveloped or unused land so long as signage is posted or verbal communication has taken place with the suspected trespasser.
• Serious charges of criminal trespassing may result in a $1,000 fine and up to a year in jail.

What Constitutes Trespassing in Washington?

Washington State broadly defines trespassing as entering or remaining unlawfully in or upon the premises of another when not licensed, invited, or otherwise legally privileged to do so.

Trespassing is also remaining and refusing to leave premises when told to do so by the property owner or the property owner’s agent, or after permission to remain has been revoked.

As always, it is in your best interest to read thoroughly a given state’s definition of trespassing and all other related terms as they are used throughout the state statutes.

Yes, most of the time they will have a common and easily understood meaning, but sometimes there is an important context you’ll need to know to make sense of the law and understand it.

You can read Washington’s definition of trespassing below in section 9A.52.010

9A.52.010 Definitions.

The following definitions apply in this chapter:

(…)
(2) “Enters or remains unlawfully.” A person “enters or remains unlawfully” in or upon premises when he or she is not then licensed, invited, or otherwise privileged to so enter or remain.
A license or privilege to enter or remain in a building which is only partly open to the public is not a license or privilege to enter or remain in that part of a building which is not open to the public. A person who enters or remains upon unimproved and apparently unused land, which is neither fenced nor otherwise enclosed in a manner designed to exclude intruders, does so with license and privilege unless notice against trespass is personally communicated to him or her by the owner of the land or some other authorized person, or unless notice is given by posting in a conspicuous manner. Land that is used for commercial aquaculture or for growing an agricultural crop or crops, other than timber, is not unimproved and apparently unused land if a crop or any other sign of cultivation is clearly visible or if notice is given by posting in a conspicuous manner. (…)

Does Washington Require “No Trespassing” Signs?

Yes, assuming that the property owner or property owner’s agent has not made direct contact with the trespasser or the suspected trespasser and notified them that they may not trespass.

As usual, posting signs around the perimeter of your property and highly visible locations and also at every likely entrance to the property is considered sufficient notice against trespassing.

Posting is important because it will eliminate some affirmative defenses that a trespasser might use in court and also escalate the seriousness of the trespassing charge.

Is Fencing Required to Protect Property?

No, but enclosing the property with a fence, wall or other barrier designed to prevent ingress onto the property also effectively counts as a notice against trespassing.

Depending on the size of your property, fencing might be an extremely pricey option so you can always go with signs.

What Other Marks Indicate “No Trespassing”?

None. Unlike some other states that have what is commonly called “purple paint” laws on the books, Washington does not allow the use of any sort of paint markings to post a property against trespassers.

Note that just because an individual might well know what such markings on trees or posts mean, they do not have the backing of law in the state, which means they should only be used for convenience purposes and not for protecting property.

Can Solicitors Ignore “No Trespassing” Signs?

Technically no, but bold ones might do so in a suburban neighborhood or in a metropolitan area.

This is because Washington has affirmative defenses against charges of trespassing found in section 9A.52.090.

One of those is if the person trespassing reasonably believed that the owner of the premises or the owner’s agent would have given them permission to enter or remain on the property.

Considering that a solicitor is walking up to your front door to knock and ask you for some of your time, this can be easily construed as seeking out the property owner for permission. We’ll talk more about affirmative defenses to charges of trespassing in Washington in the last section.

Can Trespassing Result in Arrest in Washington?

Absolutely. Trespassing is a misdemeanor crime in Washington, but that does not mean it is some simple violation. Trespassing can result in a lengthy jail term and a substantial fine.

As noted in section 98.5 2.070, criminal trespass in the first degree is a gross misdemeanor.

As of press time, a gross misdemeanor in Washington can entail a $1,000 fine and a year in jail. Serious stuff!

Read it for yourself below:

9A.52.070 Criminal trespass in the first degree.
(1) A person is guilty of criminal trespass in the first degree if he or she knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in a building.
(2) Criminal trespass in the first degree is a gross misdemeanor.
…
9A.52.080 Criminal trespass in the second degree.
(1) A person is guilty of criminal trespass in the second degree if he or she knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in or upon premises of another under circumstances not constituting criminal trespass in the first degree.
(2) Criminal trespass in the second degree is a misdemeanor.

Can You Take Someone to Court for Trespassing?

Yes, definitely. Anyone who flagrantly trespasses on your land or in a structure that you own can be dragged to court over it.

This is especially true if they are a repeat offender, or trespassing to commit any other crime, or if they caused damage to land or other property while doing so.

Special Instances of Trespassing in Washington

There are a few special statutes related to trespassing in Washington, but perhaps the most important for the average person are the affirmative defenses against charges of trespassing.

To clarify, an affirmative defense is basically one that the accused will have to use in court; it isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card and it won’t necessarily clear them at the scene.

Even so, if you care to read through the text of 9A.52.090 below you’ll see that trespassing in an abandoned building might not be trespassing after all.

As mentioned above a person who can articulate a genuine belief that the owner of the property would have granted them permission to be there might likewise escape being charged:

9A.52.090 Criminal trespass—Defenses.
In any prosecution under RCW 9A.52.070 and 9A.52.080, it is a defense that:
(1) A building involved in an offense under RCW 9A.52.070 was abandoned; or
(2) The premises were at the time open to members of the public and the actor complied with all lawful conditions imposed on access to or remaining in the premises; or
(3) The actor reasonably believed that the owner of the premises, or other person empowered to license access thereto, would have licensed him or her to enter or remain; or
(4) The actor was attempting to serve legal process which includes any document required or allowed to be served upon persons or property, by any statute, rule, ordinance, regulation, or court order, excluding delivery by the mails of the United States. This defense applies only if the actor did not enter into a private residence or other building not open to the public and the entry onto the premises was reasonable and necessary for service of the legal process.

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/OaY4mWG

Lucid Dreaming | Chat gtp rem diction ideas using Lora scripts.

"Here is an example of how LoRA scripts could be used for REM detection via eye tracking:

Begin by collecting a large dataset of eye movement data from individuals in various stages of sleep along with a full eeg for each person involved with the dataset.
Preprocess the data to remove any artifacts and filter out unwanted noise.

Use the preprocessed data to train an AI model to recognize patterns of eye movement that correspond to REM sleep. when 25% of eeg detect rem with corresponding rem videos 25% threshold, all the way up to 100% when both video of eye movements and egg are at 100% rem is almost a given. The final product shuld include both the eeg readout and rem videos from the dataset. So rem detection with eye tracking will be accurate.

Fine-tune the model using LoRA scripts to improve its accuracy and performance.
Deploy the model in real-time using eye-tracking devices to detect when an individual enters REM sleep. Remember the model needs to associate both the eeg readout from the dataset along with video from the dataset, so real time rem detection with eye tracking only can be accurate. Integrate the REM detection system into a sleep monitoring platform to provide users with information about their sleep patterns and overall sleep quality.

This is just one example of how LoRA scripts could be used in the context of REM detection via eye tracking. The specific implementation would depend on the details of the dataset, the eye-tracking hardware being used, and other factors.".

I was messing around with Chat gpt, and thought I'd ask questions about Lora scripts for rem detection by using a dataset. I'm not 100% an expert but unlike the units years ago that tried to do rem detection with poor eeg readouts on the end user. This idea chat gtp gave seems quite brilliant to me: train the ai with a full high end eeg on a large dataset along with all the associated eye movements from the same dataset then assign a percentage of rem diction from similar eye movements to eeg until the eye movements and eeg are at 100%. It seems quite a good idea to me. Anyway anyone else think what chat gtp wrote made any sense? Or is this just nonsense?

via Lucid Dreaming - Dream Views - Attaining Lucidity https://ift.tt/jMdtnTz

EMP How Long Does It Disable My Electronics

One of the most worrisome and sadly also most plausible destructive events we could face is an EMP, specifically an EMP powerful enough to disable or destroy electronic devices and the infrastructure that can help us power them.

A selection of small electronics to protect from an EMP (clockwise) Laptop loaded with reference materials, blood pressure monitor, red-dot optic, ham radios, thermometer, pulse-oxygen meter, Kardia mobile EKG monitor, cell phones loaded with offline apps and reference materials, glucometer.

Whether it is caused by a nuclear weapon detonation, a non-nuclear device or even a potent solar event, a sufficiently powerful EMP has the capability of sending society back to the pre-industrial age.

Considering how dependent we all are on modern electronics at every layer of society, it’s worth figuring out just how long the effects of an EMP will last.

How long will your electronics be disabled after an EMP?

Electronics may be temporarily or permanently disabled after EMP. Devices that are damaged or destroyed will be permanently offline until repaired or replaced. Some devices may only be disrupted, requiring a restart or troubleshooting to resume operation.

The popular depiction of an EMP is one of a nearly omnipotent event that, in the blink of an eye, will completely decimate any and all electronic systems.

Concerning the most powerful EMPs, this isn’t terribly far from the truth but it also isn’t that simple.

Some things will survive an EMP, and through preparation or luck, some electronics may be repairable or only need to be restarted.

This is among the most likely major threats that the world is facing today, so you’ll want to know about it. This article will tell you more.

An EMP is Usually Over in a Split-Second

It’s important to understand that the EMP, the event itself, is distinctly separate from the consequences.

The EMP itself, assuming it comes from some man-made source, will be over in a split-second. But the damage it does to electronics and other systems that are vulnerable to it may persist.

Basically, if you are dealing with a nuclear EMP or a non-nuclear EMP, the event will be over in a blink and then you just have to deal with the damage, not so much worried about sustained EMP effects unless there is a follow-on detonation or deployment.

Some Natural EMP Sources May Last Minutes or Days

In the case of a natural EMP, one resulting from a coronal mass ejection or solar storm, or some other cosmic event, the waves of energy from such an event could wash over Earth for hours, days, or potentially even weeks. Lookup the Carrington Event of 1859 for an example.

Although typically not as cataclysmically powerful as a nuclear or non-nuclear EMP, EMPs of this type do usually last longer, meaning they can be disruptive or potentially destructive however long they last.

The cumulative effects of such an event might result in temporary or permanent damage, or be powerful enough to destroy affected electronics in an instant. It all depends.

Recovery Depends on Damage Inflicted

Whether it is created by a man-made device or occurs as a result of natural phenomena, all EMPs produce a pulse or wave of energy in the form of an electromagnetic field.

This field causes damage to electronics by short-circuiting them.

Excessive electric currents and voltages can overload components and cause other issues. Computer chips and similar technologies are usually completely destroyed.

Devices that are less complex or have built-in protective systems may shut down or have “sacrificial” components burned up.

Damage can be variable depending upon the strength of the EMP, the distance from the EMP, intervening obstacles, and other conditions.

Though many common electronics will be destroyed outright by powerful EMP, it is possible that some may only be damaged or even knocked offline only temporarily.

You May Be Able to Restart Affected Devices

Before assuming your electronics are completely bricked or totally non-operational, try to restart them.

First, make sure they are plugged into a power grid or other power supply that is both functional and actually supplying power. Then try to restart the affected device.

With a little luck, it might work normally. If it doesn’t, make sure you double-check the integrity of the power supply and then either try again later or try to find an alternate power supply before assuming your gear is toast.

Some Equipment Will Need Parts Replacement

Some devices and equipment damaged by an EMP might not be totally destroyed. For instance, many automobiles rely on computerized control modules and other components for efficiency or function.

An EMP is highly likely to damage or destroy these particular components, but would not destroy the rest of the car.

I mean to say that an EMP is not going to make the car explode or burst into flames- probably!

In such a case, if the damaged vital components can be replaced, the equipment can be restored to normal operation.

This is something to keep in mind because things like your personal vehicle can be difficult or impossible to effectively protect from an EMP, but it’s not impossible to keep a stash of vulnerable components in an EMP protective enclosure just in case.

Other Devices Will Be Totally Ruined

Some equipment, by its very nature, is extremely vulnerable to the effects of an EMP and unless especially protected or shielded is probably going to be completely destroyed by one.

Think of gadgets like your smartphone, computer, electronic media storage devices like hard drives or solid-state drives, and things like that.

Outside of a major overhaul and the skills to do so, these items are probably bricked: you’ll need to replace them!

Anything Connected to a Power Grid is Extremely Vulnerable to an EMP

EMPs will also dangerously overcharge electrical grids, and anything that is plugged into the affected grid is at risk of destruction.

The grid itself is likely to be damaged or destroyed, too! This is a great reason why you should not keep essential items plugged in all the time if you are worried about an impending or threatened EMP event.

This advice also applies to some items that are not inherently vulnerable to EMPs, like rechargeable batteries.

If your battery was connected to its charging dock or cradle and is plugged into an outlet when an EMP occurs, it could overcharge and destroy the battery and charger catastrophically.

EMP Hardening and Shielding Can Increase the Chances Your Gear Survives

When it comes to protecting vulnerable items from EMPs, you only have two options unless total replacement is viable for you: shielding and hardening.

Shielding is protecting the item in question by putting it in or otherwise completely enclosing it and an EMP protective container or envelope.

This is invariably a completely sealed box or other container made of conductive material, usually metal, insulating the vulnerable equipment from the EMP’s effects.

Note that this type of approach is exemplified by the Faraday cage concept, something you can make yourself at home if you are crafty and have some basic knowledge of electrical theory.

The other option, one that must usually be designed into the gear in question, is hardening.

EMP hardening is a process where only the most vulnerable components and circuits in a device will be protected from an EMP, either by shielding them internally or designing them in such a way that they can handle dramatically increased currents as typified by the effects of an EMP.

Of the two, shielding is more certain but generally more difficult to implement the larger an item is.

Hardening means you can use an item normally or protect larger equipment like vehicles, but it is no guarantee that the item will survive any given EMP, particularly a very powerful one.

As with all things when it comes to asset protection, it’s a trade-off, and you should assess your vulnerabilities based on your personal circumstances and EMP readiness plan.

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/LXwxyTB

Lucid Dreaming | The Voidway Explorer's Incubation Practice

Hey everyone. If you know or don't know, I have a pretty fast paced PR to manage. It's been active and successful as of late, and I have plans to make it even more huge. The thing is however, the majority of my PR dreams are non lucid. While yes, these PR dreams are inferior as I have less control over my decisions, they can work from time to time and if I excluded my PR to only lucid dreams, it would barely go anywhere. How do I do all of this? Incubation. Not somebody else's incubation practice though. I have made my own, specifically designed for myself. However I think that others may be able to use this incubation practice to their advantage, as did I.



To put it simply, my entire incubation practice orbits around the basic idea of Associating. I do not incubate until something comes up in my day to day life that involves my lucid dream goals. (I.e, my Persistent Realm) This includes:
- Satanism
- Cultism
- Ankha (Animal Crossing Character)
- Lucidity in general
- Concept of the Multiverse

The reason I choose to not start my practice until these things are brought up, is not only because it's easier for me, because I believe my brain finds it easier to "start" something when using a key. A specific highlight rather than generally everything. For example, I get lucidity just about always from my old job in construction. I'm a construction worker in a dream? My subconcious uses that as a base and dream signs come flooding in. This is because of my Schemas. Which, you guessed it, use Associations as well. This simplifies the process and cuts out the filler.


So, a concept associated with my PR is brought up, and I start incubation. First, I use Visualization as a mnemonic, similarly to MILD to pre-construct the most likely scenarios for my PR, from my previous PR Dreams (if you're trying this practice without any lucid dreams or goals to your name, you could make one up). For example, I had a dream once where Satan was high, and mocking me for not being able to accomplish what I want. He lied about a character betraying me and being part of the cult. In my next visualization I not only visualized the probable path the PR would go, but outcomes that wouldn't exactly make sense, yet could be fixed and set back on track. This practice of creating false, self-fixing schema issues "awakens" the association that if things go off track, they can naturally mend themselves. Going on course, rather than straying. (this "schema fixer" doesn't always work yet it's a decent thing to set up)

Then, I do what I like to call "Linking". I imagine this can be difficult to understand for some people. Basically, I'm not visualizing scenes. I set my mind back and forth between different events that work as just concepts in my mind. For example,
Event A: I'm in a dream. I don't visualize, I don't think about where I am, and I don't care about what it is. I'm just holding the concept of being in a dream.
Event B: A strong path that I visualized beforehand occurs. I am not visually imagining the scene. It just exists.

I switch my mind back and forth between these 2 events. I hold the concept of being in a dream world, then I hold the concept of whatever goal I may have. Back and forth. Over, and over... First in a dream, then, my PR goal for the night is complete. From my experience, this practice directly sets schemas together perfectly.

If I don't feel ready, I repeat Visualization and Linking until I do. Usually I feel decently after completing my first link, and I move on with my day until something's brought up again. Then I visualize, and I link. When it's time to go to bed, I may or may not have a PR dream incubated.

It's not always perfect, I slip up a lot. Had a non lucid PR dream where an important character just burst into flames, and came back a day later like nothing happened. I didn't consider that dream canon, and desirably my PR dreams should be lucid. However, this incubation does me just fine.

via Lucid Dreaming - Dream Views - Attaining Lucidity https://ift.tt/yYcR1iM

Virginia State Trespassing Laws

If you own property, you’ll definitely want to brush up on your home state’s trespassing laws.

This is so you know exactly what your rights are when it comes to keeping people off of your property, and what the requirements are for you, as the owner, when it comes to posting or notifying others to keep off.

Similarly, if you are a hunter, hiker, camper or any other sort of outdoor adventurer understanding trespassing laws in detail is essential to stay on the right side of the law during your travels.

This is easier said than done, sometimes, because every state puts its own variations on trespass laws. Some states are strict, some are more relaxed but all of them are different.

In the case of Virginia, consulting the law books will show us many, many laws covering trespassing, but most of them are easy enough to understand with a casual read-through.

We will tell you what you need to know about the most important Virginia laws on trespassing in this article and share the most relevant excerpts directly from the state statutes.

Virginia Trespassing Law Overview

• Most types of trespassing are misdemeanors in Virginia, but a few are felonies.
• Virginia has laws concerning aerial surveillance and invasion of privacy with drones, and also a Peeping Tom statute.
• There are tons of sections covering trespassing on Virginia’s law books, but only some of them are relevant to most people.

What Constitutes Trespassing in Virginia?

Pretty much everyone knows what trespassing is, but by now you’ve probably figured out that every state has its own somewhat specialized definition for it.

In the State of Virginia, trespass is defined as going upon or remaining upon the lands or into or remaining in a building or any other premises belonging to another person lacking legal authority or explicit permission, or, having been forbidden from doing so or having permission revoked remaining after being told to depart.

Sort of an awkward way to define it, but that is the law for you. You can read it for yourself in the excerpt below taken directly from 18.2-119 of the Virginia State statutes.

Note: As I mentioned above Virginia has many, many statutes covering trespassing, and seemingly for every imaginable set of circumstances and possible violation.

Not all of them are included here, only the most important and relevant ones for the average person. This is done for brevity, and I highly recommend that every reader look up the statutes in their entirety for review.

18.2-119. Trespass after having been forbidden to do so; penalties

If any person without authority of law goes upon or remains upon the lands, buildings or premises of another, or any portion or area thereof, after having been forbidden to do so, either orally or in writing, by the owner, lessee, custodian, or the agent of any such person, or other person lawfully in charge thereof, or after having been forbidden to do so by a sign or signs posted by or at the direction of such persons or the agent of any such person or by the holder of any easement or other right-of-way authorized by the instrument creating such interest to post such signs on such lands, structures, premises or portion or area thereof at a place or places where it or they may be reasonably seen, or if any person, whether he is the owner, tenant or otherwise entitled to the use of such land, building or premises, goes upon, or remains upon such land, (…) he shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. This section shall not be construed to affect in any way the provisions of §§ 18.2-132 through 18.2-136.

Does Virginia Require “No Trespassing” Signs?

Yes. No-trespassing signs are not always explicitly required, but they are required on certain kinds of property for protection under the law, and they do count as a notification against trespass for basically all kinds of private property that a person would own.

Go back and read through the excerpt from 18.2-119 above and you will see the mention of posted signage counting as a method of notification against entry for trespassers.

Is Fencing Required to Protect Property?

No. Curiously, fencing is not required to protect certain kinds of property, namely pastureland, as Virginia places heavy emphasis on notification via signage or directly either in writing or verbally.

What Other Marks Indicate “No Trespassing”?

None. Some states allow property owners to mark the perimeter of their property with fluorescent paint to serve as a notice against trespassing, but Virginia is not one of them.

It should also be noted that even though such markings, usually made with purple paint, are becoming increasingly common knowledge they still do not have the force of law backing them up in the state of Virginia.

If you are going to mark fence posts, trees, boulders, or anything else with paint on your property you’re doing so only for convenience and ease of reference, because it will not stop trespassing.

Can Solicitors Ignore “No Trespassing” Signs?

Yes, or at least they often will in urban and suburban neighborhoods.

Considering it that a solicitor will approach your front door to knock on it and ask for some of your time in order to deliver their pitch or try and sell you something, this is typically construed as them seeking out the property owner to ask permission to be on the land.

Whether you want to make a big deal out of this is up to you, but so long as they leave when you tell them it generally does not amount to much.

However, the practice is typically frowned upon in rural areas, and no solicitor can ever circumvent a locked gate or fence barring entry to your property.

Can Trespassing Result in Arrest in Virginia?

Absolutely. Virginia is another state that is pretty serious about trespassing on private property, and the various misdemeanor charges can still result in arrest, a jail sentence, and a sizable fine.

There are also various felony-level trespassing charges that will necessarily rate a lengthy stay in prison and even more substantial fines.

Can You Take Someone to Court for Trespassing?

Yes, you can. Any trespasser that does so repeatedly, with the intention of harassing or stalking you, threatening you, or for any other malicious reason can definitely be dragged into court for your trouble.

Likewise, any trespasser who does so deliberately or accidentally and damages your land or property can similarly be sued for it.

Section 18.2-121 codifies this further:

18.2-121. Entering property of another for purpose of damaging it, etc.
It shall be unlawful for any person to enter the land, dwelling, outhouse or any other building of another for the purpose of damaging such property or any of the contents thereof or in any manner to interfere with the rights of the owner, user or the occupant thereof to use such property free from interference.
Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if a person intentionally selects the property entered because of the race, religious conviction, color or national origin of the owner, user or occupant of the property, the person shall be guilty of a Class 6 felony, and the penalty upon conviction shall include a term of confinement of at least six months, 30 days of which shall be a mandatory minimum term of confinement.

Special Instances of Trespassing in Virginia

Virginia has tons of smaller, special statutes covering every imaginable kind of trespassing, set of circumstances, aggravated violation, and more.

Seriously, they have a lot, you need to look them up for yourself because there are way too many to include here.

However, one of the most relevant for our era is found in 18.2-121.3, which covers trespassing with an “unmanned aircraft system”, colloquially called a drone or quadrotor.

Bottom line, if you’re drone is over someone else’s property and comes within 50 ft of their dwelling you are trespassing. Also, there is a “Peeping Tom” statute in 18.2-130.

Read both for yourself below:

18.2-121.3. Trespass with an unmanned aircraft system; penalty
A. Any person who knowingly and intentionally causes an unmanned aircraft system to (i) enter the property of another and come within 50 feet of a dwelling house (a) to coerce, intimidate, or harass another person or (b) after having been given actual notice to desist, for any other reason, or (ii) take off or land in violation of current Federal Aviation Administration Special Security Instructions or UAS Security Sensitive Airspace Restrictions is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
B. This section shall not apply to any person who causes an unmanned aircraft system to enter the property as set forth in subsection A if (i) consent is given to the entry by any person with legal authority to consent or by any person who is lawfully present on such property or (ii) such person is authorized by federal regulations to operate an unmanned aircraft system and is operating such system in an otherwise lawful manner and consistent with federal regulations.
…
18.2-130. Peeping or spying into dwelling or enclosure
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to enter upon the property of another and secretly or furtively peep, spy or attempt to peep or spy into or through a window, door or other aperture of any building, structure, or other enclosure of any nature occupied or intended for occupancy as a dwelling, whether or not such building, structure or enclosure is permanently situated or transportable and whether or not such occupancy is permanent or temporary, or to do the same, without just cause, upon property owned by him and leased or rented to another under circumstances that would violate the occupant’s reasonable expectation of privacy.
(…)

via Modern Survival Online https://ift.tt/DEQkjfX