#90 - When Shit Hits the Fan

There were so many ends of the world that were predicted to happen, luckily we are still here. After false alarms, you might have an illusory feeling that everything will always stay this way. However, one of the laws of this universe is change.

We live in a truly unpredictable (at least for many) and rapidly changing world. Our planet is constantly shifting through different cycles. And we are entering times where (not only) natural disasters will be more frequent and severe.

There are a variety of different events that can lead to the breakdown of critical infrastructure that society depends on. We really don't have to look too far to see what possibly, the chaos will look like. Historical, or even the current military conflicts, breakdown of society, pandemics, recurring economical crisis, and so on.

If you haven't been touched by any traumatic events, it doesn't mean you won't be in the future.

Realize how vulnerable you are without this critical infrastructure. How would you manage, if you will be left to the forces of nature?

Imagine. It's a beautiful sunny day. You are driving a car to get to work. All of a sudden, your tire goes flat... Luckily you have a spare wheel, wrench, lift, and some skills. You made it :) You got to the job on time. You were well prepared for this high odds situation.

It doesn't have to be a zombie apocalypse, or alien attack, as those situations rather carry low chances of occurring.

But, what about more severe risks? Natural disasters, when the power grid will go down, will you also be prepared?

We will talk about the ultimate risk management - the art of prepping.

When you do any prepping you are hedging your chances. Taking today's resources and converting them into the most important insurance of all. There is a lot that can be done and you will get to know some of the basics.

Preparing yourself and a close family is an act of self-love. It's your responsibility to increase your chances of survival, and will let you keep a calm mind in order to spread spiritual awareness during potential harsh times.

The idea of this week's topic is definitely not to scare you down. So I won't focus on all of those ends of the world scenarios, but rather I want to bring to your attention to that even if things are great right now, it's important to prepare yourself for emergencies and for situations with high odds of occurring.

Let's not get too crazy. It's quite easy to get lost when watching all of those catastrophic future predictions. Really hope we won't need to experience any of those scenarios and that everything is coming to be united in love... However, why not prepare - just in case, and hope for the best?

Take into account also other hazards, not only those end of the world scenarios. Other risks like the house on fire, branches falling down from your neighbour's tree that can cause serious injuries to your children, unemployment, extreme weather events, drought, economic downturn, sea levels rising, crop failure, worldwide hunger, war, or a local conflict, broken delivery chains due to riots, supply shortage, long-term grid down and so on.

Ask yourself those questions, and prepare a list of potential risks.

(start from your region).

• What are potential hazards that can affect me and my family?

• What is the severity of this risk?

• What are the odds for it to happen?

• What do I need to do in order to prepare myself?

You need to have awareness of what you are prepping for will save you time, money and your strategy will be far more effective. Start from projects which you can afford, and for the risks that are most likely to occur.

It wouldn't be wise to overlook the simple risks that can occur during everyday reality and focus on "aliens taking control over the world", why would they even bother anyway?

• Based on my lifestyle and the place where I live. Which potential risks have the most chance of occurring?

If you decide to take any steps in order to prep you and your family, remember to do it from the space of LOVE, not FEAR. Prioritize what steps are you going to take. You can make a long-term plan and set aside some money each month to successfully cover risks, starting from most likely to less possible.

For this week's topic, I will focus on general prepping tips that will cover many worldwide crisis situations, but obviously not all of them.

• Are you physically prepared to survive?

The most impactful element if it comes to preparing for the 'impossible' is to take care of physical health. If you still are not in a good shape, take care of a healthy lifestyle. You don't have to be an athlete, but you need to be in a reasonable physical state as possible, no matter of age or disability. Important is to quit addictions as they will only keep you down. If needed, check on dentists and other doctors as soon as possible.

Even the best - prepared equipment won't do any good, if you won't be able to survive through harsh SHTF (Shit Hits the Fan) circumstances.

Keep in mind balanced development of body characteristics that include strength, agility, speed, stamina, endurance, flexibility, mobility, power.

Imagine yourself in harsh situations:

• Are you able to travel on foot for long distances in a variety of different terrains with 40 kilos gear on your back?

• Are you able to cut through the wood?

• Are you able to climb on difficult terrain?

• Are you able to defend yourself and your love ones from wild life, other people?

• Are you able to carry people out of disaster zones?

• Are you able to survive without proper sleep for some time?

• Are you able to balance your way through obstacles?

• Are you mobile and you can bend, twist or crunch?

• Do you get sick easily?

Martial arts, training for strength, and cardio should be important workouts on the list.

Keep in mind that to remain higher muscle and body mass you will need higher caloric consumption. On the other hand, more stored fat = more stored energy. Balance it.

It might be wise to test your own limitations.

Remember about muscle memory "Muscle memory is a form of procedural memory that involves consolidating a specific motor task into memory through repetition, which has been used synonymously with motor learning. This process decreases the need for attention and creates maximum efficiency within the motor and memory systems." ~ en.Wikipedia

So practicing certain specialized actions that involve muscle movements will work greatly to your advantage.

It's good to mention that in hard times, people will do anything in order to survive. As from nature, we are creative, don't expect it will be easy.

When engaging in regular workout routines, add martial arts training to it.

There is a saying "More you know, less you have to carry". Ultimate survival skillset needs to let you survive throughout the 4 seasons.

What skills do I need to survive?

• Be able to find freshwater and purify if needed.

• Basic knowledge about meds.

• Know how to use a compass and a paper map.

• Basics handyman skills.

• Self-defense and be able to kill if necessary.

• Be able to make a fire in various different ways.

• Food Foraging. Basic knowledge of edible plants, mushrooms in wildness.

• Have basic cooking skills, including cooking on the fire and other alternative methods.

• Be able to grow plants from seeds, and be able to collect them.

• Be an average swimmer.

• Pass climbing lessons.

• Be able to sharpen knives.

• Setting a trap.

• Being able to hunt in the wild and process its gifts.

• Survival fishing.

• Be able to administer first aid.

Additional skills:

• Knowledge about nutritional management.

• Different types of farming.

• Keep the personal hygiene with a limited water supply.

• Know how to use a bow and arrows.

• Know how to shoot with a gun and refile.

• Know how to build a shelter, if your tent will demolish.

• Art of bartering.

• How to preserve food, so it won't spoil quickly.

• How to operate HAM radio.

• Be able to use herbs for healing.

• Basics of sewing and mending.

• Morse code communication and other forms of signaling.

And all those skills which will let you live a self-sufficient - farm life.

You can find more inspirations when you look for phrases like: "Bushcraft", "Survival", "Military survival skills", "Backpacking", "Self sufficient living", "Camping", "Prepping"

It's important to start from the skills which include most likely scenarios in which you think you can find yourself. For example, responding to local disasters, areas prone to flooding, or scenarios more from the catastrophic movie

• What are other skills, which in your opinion, you need to acquire in order to survive?

• Which one you are most skilled in?

• Which one you are definitely lacking?

I would encourage you to not only watch fancy survivalist programs, but also try those things in the field.

Mindset is another part of the puzzle that cannot be overlooked, as it's a base for other things on our list. When Shit Hits The Fan - you can be either survivalist, or a victim. It's easy to guess who will have more chances in an emergency situation. Victims might make highly influenced emotional, thus irrational decisions, or simply be paralysed by fear.

Stress, however, if well managed can impact your mind and sharpen your senses, and switch you into survivalist mode. Quick responses, a clear mind, focus on a task.

Actually many of the personalities traits you have already acquired throughout the course duration:

• Emotional management and mental stability;

• Understanding of FFF response;

• Creative thinking and problem-solving;

• Many forms of stress inoculation;

• Being able to go beyond the comfort zone;

• You know that you are responsible for your situation;

• Situational and body awareness;

• Being able to withstand cold;

• Being able to go without food for few days (thanks to fasting);

• Ability to focus;

• Believe in yourself and hope for a brighter tomorrow;

• Adaptability. You can accept changes and make the best of them;

• Resilience, mental toughness. You will be able to quickly recover and take a step when facing difficulties;

• Meditation. For example, that will let you not get crazy when being stuck in a small bunker for some time;

• Strong desire for self-improvement;

• Positive thinking that includes a sense of humour and gratitude;

• Decision-making skills including the ability to evaluate problems, explore possible solutions and implement appropriate actions in a timely manner.

• High spiritual and ethical awareness;

• Communication skills. That includes empathy, ability to listen, negotiate, etc;

What are other mindset traits that, in your opinion, might be crucial?

This list goes on...

It's not like all of the 12 months were to prepare you for prepping. Simply strong independent mindset is a side effect that will increase your chances of survival.

Even if you won't acquire the necessary skills or equipment, if you have a strong desire to stay alive, hope, and simply refuse to give up will greatly improve odds.

You can search for the phrase "Survival Psychology" if you want to discover more about this topic.

In case of any emergency, cities might not be as safe as rural areas, however, everything has its cons and pros.

When you live in a city, make sure that you are well familiarised with every corner (at least) of your neighbourhood. That includes what people are living and what are their characters and skills, some might be problematic and rather be avoided. As well as you need to know how resources are located (both public and private) for example, police, gas stations, pharmacies, etc. In case of a bug out, you will have already a map in your mind, or maybe, even a paper version, so it can increase your chances of survival.

Make sure to include few ways out of the city, so the evacuation plan. Know the terrain around the city and supplies there. You should have a retreat place outside of the city. Have a plan for how you are going to survive in the wilderness if needed. Remember also about the evacuation plan from your apartment.

According to Canadian Prepper (YT channel), it's good to understand the supply chain, as when most of the people in case of SHTF will loot biggest station retailers. Often overlooked production centres, warehouses, distribution centres, supply trucks, trains will be good available options.

You need to think in a manner of all the places where you can scavenge some materials, fuel, water, and other necessities before other people will come up with this idea.

What you can do is to fortify your current hideout, which requires some creative thinking. That can include using biohazard stickers and other 'scary' signs, setting traps, and so on. You don't want others to invade your supplies. Or in case if you don't have a great hideout, look for places that cannot be easily forced. You might want to do some ventures outside to resupply your stack.

On how you are going to survive greatly depends on the emergency and what you will do before it actually happens, and you strategies which you will choose.

Having a proper mindset and preparing before will let you find yourself increasing your chances of survival.

Have you ever been hiking and sleeping in the wilds for more than a week? There can be a moment where you would have to be able to survive on your own for much longer. Test yourself, collect things that you think you might need, and try your survivalist skills.

The Bug Out Bag is the first and most important step which you can take. Filled with important, well thoughtful equipment will greatly increase your chances to stay alive. It's used in situations when you need to leave your home immediately and you don't have enough time to prepare, also will serve you as supplies when you will shelter in your home.

The downside about this solution is that it's something that you need to keep nearby, as what usage will be of all this stuff, if you won't be able to access them if needed?

When collecting items, try to keep things as compact, and as lightweight as possible. Every gram will make a significant difference when you will be forced to walk for many hours.

Here is some examples, list of things (go for high quality, so it will serve you longer):

• Hiking backpack (my choice is 37 litres). Make sure it's comfortable and either is waterproof, or has a waterproof cover. The backpack has to be comfortable, including hip, chest strap and belt regulations.

• Tent. One-person tents are especially compact, but two-people ones will increase your comfort. The decision is yours.

• Sleeping bag. Choose one which will be best for your climate. Synthetics materials can be a good choice as they dry out fast. Some people recommend goose down. If it comes to shapes - mummy is my choice.

• Emergency blanket. It has dozens of possible usages. Lightweight and definitely worth having.

• Self-inflating sleeping mat. It will give you comfort for unpredictable sleeping grounds.

• All-purpose first aid kit. Make sure it has everything you might need. If you need to take any prescribed drugs, make sure to make enough supply.

• Portable propane stove or backpacking wood stove. Even the smallest one will do its job.

• Gas container. It's good to take an adapter for other types, as there are different extensions.

• Pot. One in which you can cook your food. Choose one which can also be used on a fireplace.

• Spork. Titanium ultralight is a good choice.

• Food. A good choice is to purchase some dry food that needs boiling water. You can either prepare food yourself using a food dehydrator, or buy an already pack one. Check also on canned goods and MREs.

• Water. You never know in what situation you will find yourself, so you need to be prepared for decent filtration (including harmful bacterias). You cannot afford to get sick. It's good to carry two water containers: A 1-litre bottle of water, and a water bag of 3 litres. There are many good options with filters.

• Light. Two sources of light: 1x rechargeable headlamp, 1x rechargeable flashlight

• Nylon parachute cord. It has plenty of uses. From constructing traps, hanging clothes or food, fishing line, climbing rope.

• Fishing line. Light and durable.

• Flat travel roll of duck tape. Some people suggest Gorilla tape as their choice.

• Multitool. Many useful tools are packed in one small place.

• Field knife. Even if multitools often have one, it's good to carry one too. The size of your hand should be enough.

• Refillable lighter. BIC, Clippers are popular options.

• Ferro-cerium rod and a fire steel. You can't only rely on a lighter, this option will let you "never run out of fire"

• USB charging cables and wall plug. Make sure to choose one which will last for a long time.

• Li-Ion power bank. 20000 Mhz should be enough. This is your heart for all your electronics.

• Solar charger. There are many lightweight models.

• Ziplocks bags. Great for storing trash (so you won't attract wild animals to your camp), dirty clothes, etc.

• Contractor trash bags - 1-2x they can be used in a variety of different situations.

• Cell phone. Make sure that it is solid, waterproof, and has a long-lasting battery. Apart from having PDFs and offline maps, you can check on youtube with the phrase "Preppers phone configuration" for apps recommendations. (definitely worth it)

• Cash. It doesn't weigh much, but can be useful when there won't be electricity.

• Documents - both on paper and on a small flash drive.

• Shoes. It might be good to consider two pairs. One minimalistic waterproof barefoot alternatively hiking sandals, and very comfortable waterproof hiking shoes.

• Jacket. Most important that will be windproof.

• Long-sleeve. At least one cotton one might be useful.

• Jumper, Sweater, or Fleece.

• Pants. You can look for hiking pants. Look for water-resistant pair.

• Hat. You need two types, a winter hat, and one that will cover you from the sun.

• Gloves. Goretex gloves are my choice.

• Socks. 7 pairs for everyday usage (look for anti-sweat materials), 2 pairs of warm, long, woolen socks for cold nights.

• Gaiter. Even two of them, one on your head and the other to cover your neck.

• Thermal outfit. Look for Merino Wool. Good for sleeping in the tent.

• Underwear. 7 pairs.

• Toiletries. Nail clippers, travel toothbrush, toothpaste.

• Toilet paper and/or toilet papers tablets.

• All-purpose soap.

• Wet tissues. They are great when you really don't have the option to take a bath.

Extra items, these items can be :

• Sleeping mask and earplugs.

• Gun and ammo, alternatively crossbow.

• Small fishing rode.

• Bug spray.

• Hand sanitizer.

• Hand saw.

• Blade sharpener.

• Emergency whistle.

• Signal mirror.

• Sunglasses.

• Belt.

• Paper maps.

• Compass.

• Headphones.

• Two-way handheld radio.

• Set of seeds from edible plants.

• If you are wearing - backup glasses.

You should have one bag for each family member.

There are many different needs therefore your Bug Out Bag might be different.

Make sure to master the usage of all the tools which you carry.

If you feel that spending money on something that will be just laying down and wait, or maybe even never use. You can use your equipment like camping gear.

When you browse through different prepper discussions, you could come across EDC gear, which in other words is about what should you carry every day.

Simply, it would be difficult to carry a Bug Out Bag with you all the time so in case of some unexpected outburst, you will have some things with you. Your EDC can be really anything important, usually, it includes small things unless you wear a backpack at all times.

In an everyday carry kit, the key is to find things that are compact and effective. The tools which you are going to choose depend greatly on what circumstances you think you will find yourself in. EDC can change according to many factors, and that includes current lifestyle and locations. It includes things you might use every day, on the occasion, or things that hopefully you won't ever need to use.

Example of EDC:

• Decent, waterproof watch. You can check ones with an extra compass on the wristband, or if you are a fan of smartwatches you might like to consider those;

• Key chain fire starter;

• Key chain rechargeable small light;

• Plasma lighter (you can charge it);

• Paracord belt;

• Swiss army multi-tool. Make sure it won't get confiscated while traveling by plane;

• Hip bag. Bigger than a kidney bag gives the same comfort of carrying all everyday items;

• Smartphone;

• 20000 mAh power bank;

• USB charging cables and wall plug;

• Gaiter;

• 2x Carabiner;

• Credit card multi-tool. There are different wallet-sized survival tools. Pick one which will actually be useful;

• Small telescopic pen;

• Waterproof sticky notes;

• Water bottle with decent filter;

• Pistol. Depending on country rules, and of the actual person carrying it. For some people is good to must-have, for others not - alternatively, go for Pepper Spray;

You might like to have more than one EDC kit depending on the number of things that you can and want to carry with you, and the situations you might find yourself in.

Some preppers make their own EDC tin. It is a small survival kit, that will let you survive for at least a couple of days.

When making a kit like this, start with checking out how much room do you have, and based on that make a list of things which you are going to carry. Consider possible scenarios and how you would deal with them.

Example of EDC tin:

• 1x small between 50 - 100 grams metal tin or another container;

• 1x stainless steel wire emergency saw;

• 1x folded sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil;

• 1x fishing kit (line, hook, and sinkers), you can test survival fishing card;

• 1x pair of earplugs;

• 1x disinfection alcohol wipe;

• 2x first aid antibiotic ointment (check on a triple antibiotic);

• 2x Ibuprofen;

• 1x Imodium;

• 1x Dramamine;

• 2x Benadryl;

• 2x large band-aid;

• 2x needle;

• 1x some of the waxed dental floss;

• 2x safety pin;

• 2x strong rubber band;

• 1x small roll of duck tape or another alternative;

• 1x small superglue;

• 2x paper clips;

• 1x single nail;

• 1x tiny compass;

• 1x Exacto blade;

• 2x razor blade;

• 1x cash bill - don't go for the highest one;

• 5x stormproof matches, and 1x strike paper, or 1x mini BIC lighter, or Credit card size fresnel lens;

• As an addiction, you can use smaller compartment metal tins or string bags. That will help you keep things more organized. Make sure it doesn't actually take crucial space.

It's not only about what you carry, but about what can you actually do with those things in a crisis situation.

Look for Altoids tin EDC ideas. You will find plenty of different possible configurations.

A house with land is one of the best investments you can make in order to prepare. It can produce and store food, provide warm shelter with water ..

Is it safe than the city? You will avoid waves of riots and chaos. It might be, however, you might become a target by marauding criminals, as they know that nobody will come to save you. However, in a larger group, it is a perfect option.

What are things that are worth considering:

• The location of the house is number one.

People living in distant rural areas will have more chances to survive. Not being surrounded by neighbours (who don't prep) is an additional advantage. Surrounding with forests give a natural advantage if it comes to safety and food that you can find and grow. A small brook near the house gives an additional advantage if it comes to electricity, fish, and fresh running water. Pay attention if the terrain is rich in groundwater. The best locations are those on the hills, they give you 360 scouting view around, and in the case when sea level will be rising, that can increase greatly the value of the property. If it comes to the size of land, to feed one family (two parents and a child), many sources suggest one hectare (10000 square meters) of fertile land soil.

• Heating

When building a house, consider few sources of heating. There are many types to choose from. You can build 2-3 different independent systems, or look for hybrid solutions. That will cost you more money, but "just in case" is definitely worth it. Choosing a solution for you depends on what you can afford, and the country where you live.

• Electricity

Probably most common options like photovoltaic, wind farms will let you not only save up on electricity bills, but also, if you can afford storage energy like "Powerwall" from "Tesla" or any alternatives (even DIY) will let you be independent in case of an outage. Still, storage technology has a long way to be perfected, so stay updated.

You can also read about the interesting concept of using biomass, or a water turbine to produce energy.

• House lighting

You can also have two different installations. One for standard high voltage electricity and the second for LED connected to separate solar panel installation. Just in case where electricity grid will go down, you can enjoy 'unlimited' 'free' house lighting.

• Running water

It's so good to have fresh and pure water straight from the ground. Drill a deep well so you can have an additional source of running water. If water is just close to the surface let say 1 meter underground, that's perfect. When city ​​water doesn't offer the best quality, or simply you want to be independent. In my opinion is good to have two systems connected. Consider also installing a home water filtration system.

• Hot water

There are also plenty of options available. Having at least two independent systems is a great way to secure it. Maybe you would consider connecting it with heating systems you decided to heat your home - like solar panels and heat pumps. One interesting system is to use solar water heating systems that uses solar panels called collectors fitted on the roof. Add to it a well, and you have 'free' hot water in your house.

• Sewage

Household Sewage Treatment Plant, that's an answer when you have a house in a rural area.

• Doomsday bunker

That all depends on what you can afford starting from the luxurious underground apartment, and finishing with simple underground construction. It can work both as a safe spot in the case of burglars until police will come to save you, and it will keep you alive in other emergencies.

• Food production

That's a basic survival skill when SHTF. Gardening, farming, permaculture (it has a lot in it), composting, seed saving, beekeeping, and organic pest control. You might also like to have a small pond for fish.

• Food storage

This one even if you live in a city apartment will keep you safe, when people will loot stores in order to get something to eat.

• Home security

You might not want to attract too much attention, that's for sure. Basics like fire extinguishers, gas masks, fire blankets are must-haves in every home. Motion sensors lights are great to scare off potential burglars. Keeping close combat weapons distributed in different places of the house will let you be always prepared. Self-defense skills, and include firearms training. You need also an escape plan. Reinforcements for doors and windows. Surveillance systems, there are pretty interesting ones, look for "smart house" phrase. Gate and fences, including warning signs are also layered to consider. If you have a big piece of land you can install motion detectors around, so it will give you more time to act. Drones are also a good way.

• Guard dogs

They provide additional home security and defense, warn you of danger, are great companions. Consider preparing your dog for survival. Some preppers even made dog's Bug Out Bag.

• Faraday cage

This is just in case of this 'realistically low probability event of electromagnetic pulse caused by a nuclear device (EMP)'. It's not a must-have, however is optional. You can store a lithium-ion generator, different types of emergencies communication, and other important equipment.

When purchasing land, you might like to take additional strategic locations to consider. That includes not highly populated areas, not being close to nuclear plants, prisons, and main highways (but not too far from the major urban area). Consider whether anomalies and the climate itself.

In long run, buying far from the sea coast due to the sea level rising, and not in tropical zones as the temperature rise due to Co2 content in the atmosphere.

You might like to look for the phrase "Passive house", or maybe even "Natural building" for additional inspiration. Or, if you are wealthy you might consider doing research on self-sufficient prepper boats, or who knows, maybe a camper van can be your choice.

It takes skill to learn what foods to store and how to actually do it. I would suggest having at least a food supply to cover 3 months of normal calories needs with nutritious food, for every person in the household. In a state of critical circumstances, you could cut the portions and survive even longer.

Keep in mind that you want to store food in places where the temperature may not fluctuate, and where moisture is on low levels.

Even if you won't expect looters on the street and a grocery store few streets away, there are some reasons why it's worth stocking food in your pantry.

• Saves time. How convenient it is to have all, if not most of the things you need just in a reach of your hand. No more need to drive for missing products.

• Saves money. You are able to get good deals by buying in a bulk and not being in a last-minute need, you can wait for the lowest prices.

• Gives a safety cushion. It's one of the ways to secure you from an unexpected financial situation.

• Prepares for emergencies. This one talks for itself.

When having the pantry follows the method used in managing inventory called "First in, First out" (FIFO). The oldest inventory is used first. That will let you maintain freshness.

How to make the food supply?

To make a list of items which you are going to purchase, you need to start thinking in a manner what are the meals you can prepare from shelf-stable easy-to-store items. Take into account what does your family likes to eat, special needs such as allergies. That has to include basic daily caloric needs, so prepare 3-5 meals. If you feel the need you can include some treats to lift up your mood. Remember about baby food, if you are a parent, pet food if you are the owner. Based on that you will be able to prepare.

When having a food garden, get to know ways to preserve food. Your short-term pantry, taste buds, and health will appreciate it.

It's suggested to have three months' worth of food, but obviously, you might like to have to prepare for longer. That might influence the type of food you might like to store.

Well, prepared pantry should include also sanitation supplies.

• Hygiene items. Toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, hand soap, bar soap, shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, diapers, and baby wipes;

• First-aid supplies and medications. You can search for a First-aid kit - trauma bag EMS/EMT, or "Adventure First Aid Kit". Additionally, you might like to prepare for a situation where it won't be possible to get drugs from the pharmacy. Make sure to include most of the items you might need. Make sure to have at least 90 day supply of critical medications.

• Others. Bleach or calcium hypochlorite, plastic bags, freezer bags, hurricane lantern, electric lantern, flashlights, candles, fuel, gas mask.

If you have a basement or other type of underground shelter, it might be wise to split the supplies in two. Where first one in-home is short-term oriented, and the more hidden one is for the long term, which can include things that will do in case of a complete power blackout.

In the more hidden place, you can storage cigarettes, weed*, alcohol, silver, guns*, ammo. They will be handy if it comes to trading for other goods.

In the long-term oriented scenario, you might consider also storing additional water supplies, seeds, additional bigger tent for more comfort (there are ones that are compatible with wood stove), propane stove, few tanks of a propane, propane space heater, hand wood harvesting tools, portable toilet and so on.

You will have great deep peace of mind, once you will know that a basic need of safety is covered.

*if that's legal - you know what i mean

We need to look at non-perishable food. Some food on the list doesn't meet these criteria, but it might be good for pantry with rotation. Be aware of calories content and nutrition to keep the diet balanced even during emergency situations.

Freezers can become unsafe when it comes to power shortages, so don't rely on those.

If you have a freeze dryer, you can prepare a lot of dried mixes and powder food for much less than the retail price. If stored properly, some food can even last for 25-30 years!

Consider purchasing a machine like this with your friends to split the cost. It comes in handy when you enjoy hiking, so you can prepare full nutritious meals.

Here is a list of some emergency food supplies:

• Canned meat, fish, poultry, seafood;

• Canned vegetables and vegetable juices like green beans, asparagus, artichokes;

• Canned soups;

• Canned juices and fruits like canned pineapples, pumpkin puree, peaches, oranges;

• MRE (meals ready to eat);

• Hard cheeses encased in wax like parmesan, gouda;

• Canned hummus;

• Crackers;

• Protein and dried fruit bars;

• Protein drinks;

• Electrolyte-enhanced waters like sports drinks;

• Emergency ration bars and energy chews;

• Dry cereal, granola, oats;

• Grains like rice, barley, quinoa, rye oats, proso corn, chia, spirulina, semolina;

• Pasta and pasta sauces;

• Jams and jellies;

• Cocoa powder and chocolates;

• Homemade wine and Vodka;

• Long-lasting cookies;

• Honey;

• Beans both canned and dried like lentils, chickpeas;

• Fermented food;

• Bullion cubes;

• Coffee, tea;

• Salts, species and herbs;

• Condiments like soy sauce;

• Sugars and molasses;

• Peanut butter is also a powdered form ;

• Apple cider vinegar;

• Baking soda, baking powder, and dry yeast;

• Peanuts like acorns, almonds, sunflower;

• Dried fruits like dates, raisins;

• Preserved olives;

• Oils like olive oil, ghee, coconut oil;

• Potato flakes;

• Flour, pancake, and bread mixes;

• Beef jerky and other dried meats;

• Dehydrated powder milk, whey protein;

• Powdered eggs;

• Powdered hemp, spirulina, veggie protein;

• Dehydrated butter powder;

• Powdered juice mix;

• Condensed milk;

• Corn starch;

• Canned coconut milk;

• Halva;

• Tahini;

• Food supplements (vitamins and minerals);

• Distilled water and sparkling water;

• Baby food and pet food (if needed), buy high quality in case if you would have to eat it;

• Noodle soups;

• Dried mushrooms;

• Homemade preserves;

Make sure to get to know the best ways to store it, so it can stay for a very long time, like mylar bags, oxygen absorbers, silica gel, and some pest control.

If it comes to the expiration date. The truth is that often food can be safely consumed after passing it. Read more about it.

*This is not a complete list of food you can possibly storage. It's best to do your own research.

When prepping, remember to include a can opener and utensils on the list. :)

There are plenty of ideas on what vehicles would be ideal. Here are some ideas which you might like to consider.

• Bike. The number is on in the arsenal. Easy to fix, doesn't require additional fuels to run apart from calories, shush. Make sure to have extra spare parts.

• E-bike. Most likely the best survivalist vehicle on the list. It can go faster, doesn't require so much strength, doesn't require so much energy compared to electric cars, and can be recharged with solar panels. Even if electronics will fail it still can be used as a regular bike. Make sure to collect additional batteries.

• E-quads. You will be able to move through difficult terrain and avoid attracting attention as you would ride a regular gasoline ATV (all-terrain vehicle).

• Older 4x4 diesel car. You might like to storage additional juice in the tanks and carry it in the car (and rotate it and use fuel stabilizers, so it won't turn bad). Diesel is more often chosen over gasoline for various different reasons. Longer shelf life than gasoline, can be transformed to run on vegetable oils. The whole process of turning the car into a Madmax vehicle I will leave to your creativity.

• Electric car. It can be charged in your survivalist home. With large solar panels, you drive almost free. Especially vital in times where gas prices will skyrocket. Less moving parts. Much quieter than traditional vehicles. However, if an electromagnetic pulse is a concern for you, then that might not be perfect.

• Long-distance walking trolley. If you want to carry more with less effort this one will be the perfect solution.

• Animals like horses, donkeys, or camels. We can learn a lot about it from Amish communities. Bet you are able to pinpoint many pros and cons.

Connect with like-minded people from your area, these are vital if planning to survive long term. It's about company and diversity of specialized skills.

It's good to answer the question: What occupations will be as valuable as gold in case of emergency? Based on the answer you will be able to make a list of people that can be a part of your smaller community.

• What strengths and weaknesses do you have?

• What are your skills and abilities?

• What trustworthy people do you have available?

• What can your friends do?

Even if you are a person that has all the skills that will let you survive, you are still limited by time, thus you won't be able to take care of everything, and even if so, it might be challenging in a long term.

Crucial is to understand the basic structures of society and smaller communities. That will help you to structurize everything for its maximum effectiveness.

I decided to not give you an answer straight on the plate, about what exact specialists you might need. Activate your creative thinking and planning, and create a list yourself.

Don't overlook the importance of people living in the same neighbourhood, even if they aren't preppers. They act as a great layer of security as you do for them. That's why it's good to have a good relationship, especially with people living in the same surrounding area.

This week's topic is to inspire you, so you can take additional safety measures in case of emergencies.

I really hope we won't need to ever to use those skills and tools in another scenario than just a hobby.

Be sensible about your spendings, wait for the best prices. Usually August and February are times when you can get a great deal for trekking equipment. I was able to get even 80% on some stuff!

You really don't have to take a bank credit. Few months isn't going to hurt you. The most important is that you go in a direction of becoming more prepared.

From what you will start greatly depends on your current situation, and of where you live. Do you live in an apartment, a home in a city, or on a farm?

The best prepper is one who doesn't publicly scream out loud that has supplied in a house on the street XYZ and is prepared for potential dangers. The reason is simple: you and your family will be on a spot for other people willing to survive.

You can always say that the universe will take care of me, I don't need to prep.

What if, that's exactly the way it has spoken to you?