Preppers take self-sufficiency very seriously. If you want to start prepping, don't make the mistake of thinking that an SHTF scenario is going to be a fun event, like camping in your backyard. (h/t to AmericanPreppersOnline.com)
If a hostile nation were to attack the U.S., would they do it on a nice day with pleasant weather?
If your neighborhood was affected by an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) attack during a particularly harsh winter, can your family survive?
Fast facts on EMP
EMPs are "powerful bursts of energy." They can occur naturally because of "space weather" events, like the sun blasting charged particles toward Earth, or they can be triggered by man-made sources (e.g., a nuclear explosion).
There are two types of EMPs that you need to know about:
- High-frequency pulses affect small wires in computer-based systems.
- Low-frequency pulses affect large-scale equipment in the power grid.
In this hypothetical situation, an EMP would be effective because it would inflict the most damage with minimal cost and casualties on the enemy's side.
Another thing you need to ponder is this: Despite all of the technological advances mankind has access to, how can something like this happen in this day and age?
An EMP attack could be staged if a hostile force fires missiles from an anchored ship in a bay that's close to the center of the country. This gives the missile plenty of time to reach its detonation height before authorities could tell the public to prepare for an attack.
Survival and prepping is serious business
When SHTF, things could get ugly, especially if coupled with extreme weather. To prepare for this scenario, you should help your family get used to life without modern comforts like gas heating, which requires electricity to function.
Most families also rely on modern electronic systems and computers to control the flow of gas. But without electricity, you won't have access to gas for your heating system.
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, you would also be facing the problem of a finite fuel source. Unless you prepared in advance, you would eventually run out of wood to get you through the winter as you cook food and heat your home. When you do find a good source of wood for your fireplace, you need to figure out where to store the fuel.
During a winter EMP attack, people who didn't perish because of the cold might die due to disease, starvation, or violence. This is the reality of prepping, and it is something you need to remember to help your loved ones survive.
As you plan your preps, don't get excited for something like an unplanned outdoor picnic. Brace yourself for hard times and learn how to defend your family.
Here are some tips that can help you prepare for various SHTF scenarios.
- Stockpile as much wood as you can for your fireplace and consider alternative sources of heat like kerosene or propane. (Related: Prepper hacks: 20 Tips for surviving the next chaotic situation with ease.)
- Set aside winter clothing and gear for your whole family. Search thrift stores for affordable supplies.
- When buying hand or foot warmers, check their expiration dates.
- Start preparing your survival stockpile and set aside enough food and water for your whole family. Rotate your supplies to avoid spoilage.
- Cultivate a survival garden so you have access to fresh, organic fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Include medicinal plants that can be used to make natural home remedies for various health complaints.
Hope for the best but prepare for the worst to improve your chances of survival if and when SHTF.
Remember, a disaster scenario isn't going to be a fun holiday with your loved ones. However, if you prepare the necessary tools and supplies that you might need when the time comes, you might just make it out alive.
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