Here's how to open a can in an emergency (it's super easy!)

The zombie apocalypse has arrived, and you're waiting in the cellar for it to pass. You managed to grab a potty, a few novels, and several cans of food before closing the cellar door, but you forgot the can opener! What now?

CAUTION: These can-opening methods, while useful in certain situations, create a sharp, jagged edge on the lid. Use extreme caution when performing any of these methods; wearing cut-resistant safety gloves is recommended.

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1. Spoon

With strong wrists and a sturdy spoon, you should be able to remove the lid from your canned goods.

Grip the spoon firmly in your fist and rub the tip back and forth along the edge of the lid.

 

The movement quickly thins the metal and the spoon will pierce the lid.

Then, slide the spoon back and forth along the rim, opening the can as you do so.

That's it!  

You can apply the same technique with a screwdriver, butter knife, or any other similar tool.  

2. Chef's knife

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2. Chef's knife

With a little practice, you'll find that a chef's knife can be a relatively safe tool for opening cans.  

Grip the knife firmly by the handle, placing your thumb on the flat part of the blade, just above the heel.

Keeping the blade pointing away from you, insert the heel into the groove on the rim of the jar.  

A firm downward push should pierce the can lid. Repeat the motion all around the lid.  

 

In a few seconds the can will open!  

3. Concrete

 

 

 

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3. Concrete

If you have concrete in your basement, you're in luck: you don't even need tools to open cans!

Simply rub the top of the can against the concrete to wear down the edge of the lid.  

When the rim is sufficiently worn (as you can tell if you see moisture on the lid), clean off the filings, then squeeze the can and the lid will pop off.

This technique requires a little strength and a little patience!

Of course, the smartest thing to do is plan ahead and make sure to include a manual can opener in your shelter-in-place kit. But if a zombie apocalypse or camping accident catches you by surprise, you certainly don't have to starve.

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