Prepping

 In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our daily routines and forget about the importance of being prepared for unexpected events. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic downturn, or personal emergency, having a plan and supplies in place can make all the difference in your ability to respond and recover. This is where the art of prepping comes in.

Prepping, also known as survivalism or disaster preparedness, involves taking proactive steps to ensure that you and your loved ones are equipped to handle any situation that may arise. It’s not just about stockpiling food and water; it’s about creating a mindset that allows you to stay calm, think clearly, and act decisively when faced with uncertainty.

Getting started with prepping on a budget can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible. Just get started even if it’s one item at a time:

So why should you start prepping? Here are some compelling reasons:

Reduces stress and anxiety:

When you have a plan and know that you’re prepared, you’ll feel more confident and less anxious about the future. This peace of mind can help you sleep better at night and focus on other areas of your life.

Saves time and money:

By planning ahead and purchasing items in bulk, you can save money and avoid last-minute trips to overpriced stores during an emergency. Plus, you won’t waste valuable resources trying to find essential items when they’re scarce.

Increases self-sufficiency:

Prepping teaches you skills like gardening, preserving food, and fixing things around the house, making you more independent from outside sources. This self-sufficiency can be empowering and fulfilling.

Enhances resilience:

When faced with adversity, preppers are better equipped to bounce back and adapt to new situations. They have a growth mindset and see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow stronger.

Builds community:

Many preppers join online communities or local groups to share knowledge, resources, and support. This sense of belonging can provide emotional comfort and practical assistance during difficult times.

Now that we’ve discussed why prepping is important, let’s dive into some practical tips for getting started.

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Assess Your Needs:

The first step in prepping is understanding what you need to prepare for. Consider the types of risks associated with your location (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires), your family size, and your specific needs (e.g., medical conditions, pets). Make a list of potential scenarios and use it as a guide for your preparations.

Create a Plan:

Once you have a clear idea of your needs, create a plan that includes the following elements:

• Emergency contact information and communication methods
• Evacuation routes and meeting points
• Food and water storage guidelines
• First aid kit contents and medical protocols
• Shelter and warmth strategies
• Personal safety measures
• Alternative power sources
• Communication devices
• Cash and bartering materials

Stockpile Essentials:

It’s time to start building your supply cache! Focus on these key categories:

Water:

Store enough drinking water (at least 1 gallon per person per day) and consider investing in a water filtration system.

Portable water tank:

A portable water tank can store water, allowing individuals to carry water with them in a survival situation.

Non-perishable food:

Stock up on canned goods, dried fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and protein sources like beans and jerky. Don’t forget a manual can opener!

Clothing and layers:

Store extra clothing, rain gear, and warm layers to stay comfortable and protected from the elements.

Consider packing:

• Extra socks and underwear

• Waterproof jacket and pants

• Insulated jacket or coat

• Warm hat and gloves

• Scarf or neck warmer

• Extra shirts and pants

• Sturdy boots or shoes

Personal hygiene:

Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products are essentials you don’t want to run out of.

Shelter and bedding:

Have a tent, sleeping bag, blanket, and pillow ready for each member of your household.

Tarps can also be used for temporary shelter.

Pet supplies:

If you have furry friends at home, don’t forget to stock up on pet food, treats, and any necessary medication.

Childcare and infant supplies: If you have young children or infants, make sure you have enough diapers, formula, baby food, and childcare essentials like pacifiers and bottles.

Medical supplies:

Gather basic first aid equipment, medications, and sanitation products like hand sanitizer and toilet paper.

Fire starting tools:

Matches, lighters, waxed cotton balls, dryer lint, fire gel, lighter fluid, battery, steel wool and fire steel, can be used to start fires for warmth, cooking, and signaling.

Important documents:

Keep copies of important documents like insurance policies, identification, and birth certificates in a waterproof container.

Cash and change:

Having some cash on hand can be helpful in case ATMs and credit card machines aren’t working.

Cooking equipment:

Cooking equipment, such as a camp stove, pot, and utensils, can be used to prepare food in a survival situation.

Multi-fuel stove:

A multi-fuel stove can burn a variety of fuels, such as gasoline, propane, and alcohol, providing a reliable source of heat and cooking fuel.

Keep matches, lighters, and fire starters on hand to help you cook meals and generate heat.

Lighting:

Flashlights, extra batteries, and headlamps for hands-free lighting.

Candles, oil lamps, alcohol lamps, solar powered lighting.

Navigation tools:

Navigation tools, such as compasses, maps, and GPS devices, can be used to navigate through unfamiliar terrain.

Communication equipment:

Communication equipment, such as radios, walkie-talkies, and satellite phones, can be used to communicate with others in a survival situation.
Check out our comms pages for more information on communications.

Personal & Home defense weapons:

Pepper spray

baton

knife

any number of firearms, can be used to defend against threats in a survival situation.

Solar chargers:

Solar chargers can be used to charge electronic devices and flash lights using sunlight, providing a reliable source of power in remote locations.

Basic Tool Set:

A multi-tool, hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, duct tape, Socket Set, Set of hand wrenches

Nails, Screws

Advanced Tools:

Brace and bit set, Wood clamps

Hand saws: Crosscut Saw, Rip Saw, Bow Saw

Chisel set, Files and rasps, Level(s), Tape measure(s), Carpenters Square(s)

AX: Felling AX, chopping AX, splitting AX, Splitting Maul

Hatchet

Sandbags (for wet conditions)

The combined basic and advanced tools can make your life a lot easier when the power is out and your battery operated tools no longer work.

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Maps and navigation tools:

Keep a physical map of your area and a compass in case GPS signals are unavailable.

Personal entertainment:

Project books, Daily To Do list, Calendar and word puzzles can help pass the time and reduce stress during an extended power outage, Document your situation so you can learn what’s missing.

Home security:

Consider investing in a battery-powered security camera or motion-sensitive lights to protect your property.

Outdoor equipment:

A portable grill, camping stove, and outdoor furniture can help you maintain a comfortable living space if you need to evacuate your home.

Hygiene and cleaning supplies:

Keep plenty of cleaning products, disinfectant wipes, and trash bags on hand to maintain good hygiene.

Moisture protection:

Use plastic bins or containers to keep important items dry in case of flooding or leaks.

Backup power sources:

Consider investing in a backup generator or solar panels to charge your devices and keep your home running.

Paracord:

Paracord is a versatile and essential tool for preppers, as it has numerous uses in various survival situations. Here are some ways paracord can be used for prepping:

Building shelter: Paracord can be used to create a shelter, such as a lean-to or a debris hut, by lashing together branches or poles.

Creating a bed: Paracord can be used to create a bed or a sleeping platform by lashing together branches or poles.

Making a fire: Paracord can be used to start a fire by creating a bow drill or a fire saw.

Fishing: Paracord can be used to create a fishing line or a net to catch fish.

Hunting: Paracord can be used to create a hunting trap or a snare to catch small game.

First aid: Paracord can be used as a tourniquet or a splint to treat injuries.

Climbing: Paracord can be used as a climbing rope or a rappelling line.

Rescue: Paracord can be used to create a rescue line or a pulley system to lift heavy objects.

Signaling: Paracord can be used to create a signal flag or a smoke signal to alert others of your location.

Repairing: Paracord can be used to repair broken equipment, such as a tent or a backpack.

Securing: Paracord can be used to secure equipment or supplies, such as tying down a load on a vehicle or securing a door.

Camouflage: Paracord can be used to create camouflage by tying it around trees or other objects to blend in with the surroundings.

Creating a makeshift pulley system: Paracord can be used to create a pulley system to lift heavy objects or to pull things across distances.

Making a windlass: Paracord can be used to create a windlass, which can be used to hoist heavy loads or to pull water from a well.

Creating a tripwire: Paracord can be used to create a tripwire, which can be used to trigger an alarm or to detonate an explosive device.

Overall, paracord is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of survival situations, making it an essential item for preppers to have in their bug-out bags or survival kits.

Personal protective equipment:

Consider investing in personal protective equipment such as gas masks, gloves, and eye protection if you live in an area prone to environmental hazards like wildfires, chemical spills, or airborne pathogens. These items can help protect you from inhaling harmful substances and prevent skin irritation.

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Prepping isn’t just about accumulating stuff, it’s about being prepared for the unknown and taking responsibility for your own well-being. By assembling a comprehensive emergency kit, you’ll be better equipped to face whatever challenges come your way. Just remember to check and update your supplies regularly to ensure they remain relevant and usable. Stay safe and informed!