A brief outline of how to become a prepper
In the past a lot of people thought of preppers as a bit odd, even weird, but these days more and more people are learning about how to prepare for unforeseen events. With pandemics, wars and who knows what’s next, it only makes sense to have some level of preparedness in case the SHTF. If you’re reading this you’re probably wondering how to become a prepper. In this post we will touch on the basic ideas and concepts of becoming a prepper.
The Difference Between Survivalism and Prepping
Before diving deep, it’s crucial to distinguish between survivalism and prepping. Survivalism is more concerned with surviving outdoors or living off the land. Prepping on the other hand looks at a wider range of scenarios such as finance, communications, food, first-aid and so on. What we learned from the covid pandemic is things can go south fast and in many situations there just won’t be enough time to react to a disaster or extreme event. Store shelves empty fast, supply chains are slowed down or cut off, communications can be hampered or lost, stores may be closed, banks inaccessible, lack of medical supplies and on and on. So although survivalism might be one aspect of prepping, prepping has a much broader scope. Learn more about the difference between survivalists and preppers.
Assess Your Risk
Not all dangers are universal. Depending on your location, you may face threats from hurricanes, wildfires, or power grid failures. It’s essential to assess these specific risks, prioritizing them based on their potential severity and likelihood. Certain types of events may be highly unlikely in your particular case, for example some areas have never experienced a large earthquake so planning for this scenario may be a waste of time and resources. There are scenarios though that can affect anyone, things such as war, natural disasters, financial collapse, pandemics and so on. Learn more about risk assessment for preppers
Start with the Essentials
Water and food are obviously of utmost importance. You cannot live without these 2 essential items. According to the CDC you should have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day with a 3-day supply. Though they suggest trying to have a 2-week supply if possible. Food requires careful selection of non-perishables, knowledge of their shelf lives, and a rotation system to keep supplies fresh. Shelter (preferably your home) is another important factor. But if you’re planning for the worst your home may not be an option and you should be thinking about short-term as well as long term shelter options whether it be a cabin in the woods or a portable tent staying warm and dry will be important.
Health and Safety
Injuries or illnesses can escalate during emergencies. A well-equipped first aid kit and basic first-aid training can be lifesavers. Stockpiling essential medications ensures uninterrupted access during crises, while tools like flashlights, matches, sunscreen, etc. will also be critical.
Financial Preparedness
Monetary disruptions often accompany crises. An emergency fund acts as a financial buffer, while keeping tangible cash can be beneficial if digital transactions falter. Diversifying assets, whether through precious metals or barter items, ensures multiple avenues of economic recourse. Read our full article on financial prepping here
Develop Skills
Beyond material preps, skill acquisition is invaluable. Learn basic survival techniques, from lighting fires to purifying water. Cultivate skills in gardening and food preservation. Equip yourself with defensive training, and understand essential communication tools and methods for times when conventional lines might fail.
Plan and Practice
Having a plan is one thing; ensuring its viability is another. Draft a comprehensive family emergency protocol, periodically review and rehearse evacuation routes, and regularly test your preparations to identify gaps.
Build a Bug-Out Bag
A bug-out bag is a prepper’s portable lifeline, packed with essentials to sustain you when immediate evacuation is necessary. From water purification tools to essential documents, its contents are vital. Tailor it to your needs, ensuring it’s both comprehensive and manageable.
Foster a Prepper Community
Survival isn’t solitary. Building a network of like-minded preppers offers mutual support. Engage with local groups or online communities to share knowledge, resources, and strategies. Collective preparation enhances individual resilience.
Stay Informed
Knowledge is power, and staying updated with news and alerts can be a game-changer. Tools like weather radios or emergency apps ensure you’re never caught off guard.
Psychological Preparedness
Emergencies can be mentally taxing. It’s imperative to understand the psychological toll they might impose. Equip yourself with stress-reducing techniques and be familiar with coping mechanisms, including recognizing and navigating grief stages.
Continuous Learning and Improvement
The realm of prepping is dynamic. Keeping abreast with the latest trends and innovations in prepping enhances your readiness. Periodically assess your supplies, refresh your knowledge, and consider attending workshops to refine your skills. Join prepper facebook and X (twitter) groups to share ideas and learn form others’ experiences.
Conclusion
At the heart of prepping is the aspiration for peace of mind—a confidence that, come what may, you and your loved ones have a fighting chance. Embrace preparedness not as a destination but a journey, starting small and gradually building a robust safety net against uncertainties.