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Steps to Prepping (ELI5)

The following guidelines will help you get started, and hopefully guide you to be a successful prepper.

STAGE 0 (do this today)

  1. Make a list of all the events that happened in your area (your city, your state/province). Blizzard, tornado, wildfire, riot, blackout.
  2. For each event, list what disturbance it caused to the people who were affected by it. So maybe a tornado hit 50 kilometres away... you were not affected by it, but what happened to the people who were. Looking another way, how would you have been affected if it struck your house/business? Include how long the effects lasted.
  3. What would you need to get through that event when it happens next?
 

STAGE 1

  1. Set a grocery shopping day each week, and stick to the schedule. Never say "oh, we still have food, I'll shop tomorrow instead".
  2. When doing your shopping, buy for at least 8 days. If you have a bit of extra cash, go for 10-14 days of food and household supplies. Buy the food you normally eat so that in any emergency situation you don't need to switch diets (further stressing your already stressed family).
  3. Repeat
After 1 year you will have a minimum of 52 days of food and supplies, and possibly an entire year's supply.
 

STAGE 2

  1. Convert an area of your garden to growing food. A vegetable garden is good. Maybe some chickens or rabbits.
  2. Obtain an endless supply of drinking water. People need about 20 litres per day. For a year, that's 7000 litres (a small swimming pool) for each person. You can not store enough water for even 1 year. You need a source. Best option is a well. Depending upon the soil you may be able to drive your own well point. If you are careful, you can even do this in cities. Then hide the well under a bush or something.
  3. Get a power source. You'll need a battery bank and inverter (you don't want to run a generator 24 hours a day). Then to charge the batteries either a diesel generator, or preferably solar panels. You can calculate and size your electrical needs here: prepare2thrive.com/power
 

STAGE 3

  1. Set long-term goals. Where on the planet is the best place to live where you and your family will be safest? How can you survive there? Make your goals S.M.A.R.T. goals. A SMART goal should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound. By setting a goal, an individual is making a roadmap for a specific target. The elements in the framework work together to create a goal that is carefully and thoughtfully planned out, executable and trackable. Goals should also include milestones. So don't say "By this date I'm going to be ready". Instead, say "by January 1st I'm going to have 'A' done. By April 1st I'll have 'B' done and part of 'C'. By this date next year.... In 5 years I'll be...."
  2. Start building the skills and resources needed to put your plan into action.
  3. Put your plan into action.

 

Final Thoughts

Keep in mind that the goal of prepping is so that you can get past any emergency situation, without it affecting your life. For example, when the power goes out for your neighbours, yours stays on and you keep living normally. That is the end goal.

This may require changes in your lifestyle. The best time to make those changes is today, not the day the lights go out. But this does not mean you have to live in a tent in the woods, eating bugs. It is possible to live quite comfortably, while reducing your expenses and severing your connections to relying on other people.

 

Where to Go from Here

Here are some articles to read next.
  1. New to Prepping?
  2. Power 101
  3. Water Filtration and Purification Methods for Emergency Situations
  4. Essential Communication Tools for Preppers: Staying Connected in a Crisis

Achieving Self-Sufficiency: Living Off the Grid and Embracing the Survival Lifestyle

Achieving Self-Sufficiency: Living Off the Grid and Embracing the Survival LifestyleIntroduction

Living a self-sufficient life has become increasingly important in today's uncertain world. By embracing the survival lifestyle and disconnecting from mainstream infrastructure, individuals can achieve a sense of security and freedom. In this article, we will explore the concept of self-sufficiency, the benefits of living off the grid, and why living on a sailboat offers the perfect opportunity for self-sufficiency.

Understanding Self-Sufficiency

Self-sufficiency is the ability to provide for one's own needs without relying on external resources. By focusing on food, energy, and water independence, self-sufficiency offers numerous advantages. In times of crisis, self-sufficient individuals are better equipped to handle unexpected situations and maintain their livelihoods. It promotes resilience, adaptability, and a deeper connection with the natural world.

Living Off the Grid

Living off the grid means disconnecting from conventional utility systems and relying on alternative methods to meet our basic needs. By generating our own energy, growing our own food, and managing water resources, we become less dependent on external sources. This lifestyle choice offers benefits such as reduced expenses, environmental sustainability, and increased self-reliance.

Preparing Your Furry Friend: Dog-Specific Prepping Tips and Tricks

 Preparing Your Furry Friend: Dog-Specific Prepping Tips and TricksIntroduction:

As a responsible dog owner, it's crucial to consider the well-being of your furry friend in times of emergencies or unexpected situations. Just like you would prepare yourself and your family, preparing your dog can make a significant difference in their safety and comfort during challenging times. In this blog, we will provide you with practical advice and strategies for preparing your furry friend, ensuring their needs are met, and keeping them safe during emergencies.

Understanding Your Dog's Needs:

To effectively prepare your dog, it's essential to recognize their unique needs and characteristics. Different dog breeds have different requirements for food, water, and medical supplies. Assessing your dog's specific needs will help you create a comprehensive emergency plan tailored to their requirements. Additionally, identify any existing health conditions or special considerations your dog may have to address them adequately during emergencies.

Preparing for Natural Disasters: A Comprehensive Guide

Preparing for Natural Disasters: A Comprehensive GuideNatural disasters can strike unexpectedly, causing immense damage and posing significant threats to human lives and infrastructure. From hurricanes and floods to earthquakes and wildfires, it is essential to be prepared for such events to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various aspects of preparing for natural disasters, including assessing risks, creating an emergency plan, building an emergency kit, securing your property, staying informed, assisting vulnerable populations, and fostering community resilience. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your resilience and readiness when faced with a natural disaster.

1. Assessing Risks and Understanding Disasters

The first step in preparing for natural disasters is to assess the risks specific to your region. Research and understand the types of disasters that commonly occur in your area, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires, or tsunamis. Evaluate the likelihood and potential impact of these events based on historical data and expert advice. Consider reaching out to local emergency management agencies or accessing online resources to gather relevant information about the risks in your community.

Survival Skills 101: Essential Techniques for Beginners

Survival Skills 101: Essential Techniques for BeginnersIn a world filled with uncertainties, having basic survival skills is crucial for everyone. Whether you find yourself in a natural disaster, lost in the wilderness, or facing a societal collapse, knowing how to survive in challenging situations can mean the difference between life and death. In this article, we will explore some essential survival skills that beginners can learn and practice to increase their chances of survival when faced with unexpected circumstances.

1. Shelter Building

One of the first priorities in a survival situation is shelter. Understanding how to create a shelter using natural materials can provide protection from the elements and help maintain body temperature. Learn to identify suitable locations and utilize available resources such as branches, leaves, and debris to construct a sturdy and insulated shelter.