How to Prep for Preppers – A Comprehensive Guide
With the end of the world looming, I thought I would take a moment and tell you how I prep.
Prepping is a way of life for many people, and it is not just about being prepared for the end of the world. Preppers are individuals who take responsibility for their own safety and security in the face of potential disasters or crises. If you are new to prepping, you might be wondering where to start. In this article, we will outline the key steps to becoming a prepper and provide a comprehensive guide to help you on your journey.
Step 1: Assess Your Risks
The first step in prepping is to assess the risks you might face in your area. These could include natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, or tornadoes, as well as man-made disasters like power outages, economic collapse, or civil unrest. Research the history of your region to identify past incidents and their impacts. Once you’ve identified the risks, you can start to develop a plan to address them.
Step 2: Create a Plan
Once you have identified the risks, it’s time to create a comprehensive emergency plan. This plan should outline what you will do in various scenarios, including evacuation routes, communication methods, and emergency contacts. Make sure to involve all members of your household in the planning process and practice your plan regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Step 3: Build Your Prepper Pantry
One of the most important aspects of prepping is having a well-stocked pantry. Start by creating a basic emergency kit that includes items such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and flashlights. Consider your family’s specific needs, including any medications or special dietary requirements. Gradually build up your supplies over time, aiming to have enough to sustain your household for at least two weeks and make sure to rotate your stock regularly to ensure freshness.
Step 4: Create a Bug-Out Bag
A bug-out bag is a portable kit that contains everything you need to survive for at least 72 hours in the event of an emergency. This should include items such as food, water, first aid supplies, personal medication, and a change of clothes. Make sure to keep your bug-out bag in an easily accessible location, and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is. I have a bug-out bag in each of my vehicles.
Step 5: Learn Basic Survival Skills
Learning basic survival skills can be a lifesaver in an emergency situation. In addition to having the right supplies, it is important to develop the skills needed to survive in emergency situations. Learn basic first aid and CPR, as well as essential survival skills such as fire starting, shelter building, and navigation. You can find plenty of resources online to help you learn these skills, or you can attend a local workshop or class. After you learn the skills, remember to keep practicing them. For example, every winter I’ll wait for a large storm then go in my backyard and light a fire.
Step 6: Stay Informed
Staying informed is key to being prepared for a disaster. Make sure to keep up to date with local news and weather reports, and have a reliable way to receive emergency alerts. Sign up for alerts from government agencies and emergency management organizations to receive timely information and instructions. Stay connected with your community and neighbors, as they can be valuable sources of support and assistance during emergencies. It is also a good idea to have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio in case of power outages.
Prepping for potential disasters is a smart and responsible way to ensure the safety and security of yourself and your loved ones. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can become a prepper and be prepared for whatever life throws your way. Remember to assess your risks, create a plan, and build a well-stocked pantry and bug-out bag. Learn basic survival skills and stay informed. Remember, it is better to be over-prepared than under-prepared when it comes to facing the unknown. Most importantly, never ever give up.
- Government Resources:
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): FEMA offers a wealth of information on emergency preparedness, including guides, checklists, and training resources. Visit their website at www.ready.gov for more information.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC provides valuable information on preparing for public health emergencies, including pandemics and infectious disease outbreaks. Explore their resources at www.cdc.gov.
- Community Resources:
- Local Emergency Management Agencies: Contact your local emergency management agency for information on specific risks in your area and resources available for preparedness.
- Community Preparedness Groups: Join community groups or organizations focused on emergency preparedness to connect with like-minded individuals and access additional resources.
- Training and Courses:
- American Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers courses in first aid, CPR, and disaster preparedness. Visit their website at www.redcross.org to find courses near you.
- Community Colleges and Extension Programs: Many community colleges and extension programs offer courses and workshops on emergency preparedness and survival skills. Check with local educational institutions for available offerings.
- Books and Publications:
- “The Prepper’s Blueprint” by Tess Pennington: This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of prepping, from creating a survival plan to building a stockpile of supplies. Available at major bookstores and online retailers.
- “Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival” by Dave Canterbury: Learn essential wilderness survival skills, including shelter building, fire starting, and navigation, with this practical guide. Available at major bookstores and online retailers.
- Online Communities and Forums:
- Survivalist Boards: Join online forums such as Survivalist Boards (www.survivalistboards.com) to connect with experienced preppers, ask questions, and share tips and advice.
- Reddit: Explore subreddits like r/preppers and r/Survival for discussions on emergency preparedness, survival skills, and gear recommendations.
- Emergency Alerts and Notifications:
- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Learn more about WEA and how to receive emergency alerts on your mobile device from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website at www.fcc.gov.
- NOAA Weather Radio: Find information on NOAA Weather Radio and how to program your radio to receive weather alerts from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/nwr.