Prepping provides you with the essentials of survival any time an emergency arises. It also reduces the odds of you finding yourself in a tough situation. Preppers typically prepare for a survival scenario by stockpiling supplies and learning the basics of first aid, self-defense and food storage, among other things. But you can also be prepared by taking simple but effective measures. Take a look at the following: (h/t to PrepperWebsite.com)
1. Let people know where you're going
Informing your loved ones where you're headed every time you go out provides authorities information about your possible whereabouts should you get stranded along the way in the middle of a snowstorm, typhoon or other natural disaster.
Always tell your family or friends your destination, route and estimated time of arrival whenever you're going outside.
2. Carry your phone and a battery charger
Cell towers are usually down during a disaster or unavailable completely if you're stuck in an off-grid location. But what if you find yourself in an area where cell towers are up and running? In this case, you'd want to have a fully charged phone so you'll be able to call for help. Bring a battery charger too in case emergency responders take a longer time to arrive than usual so you can keep them updated about your situation.
3. Check the weather
Weather reports are not always accurate but this shouldn't keep you from checking them before you leave home. If weathermen forecast an inclement weather, perhaps you can reschedule your trip or adjust your routes for your safety. (Related: Prepping 101: Three important lessons for beginners.)
4. Carry a "get home bag"
Many preppers bring a get home bag wherever they go in case SHTF happens when they are outdoors. A get home bag is a portable emergency kit that contains items necessary to support a dangerous trip back home during a widespread survival scenario. These items include:
- Stainless steel water bottle
- Lightweight emergency shelter
- High-calorie energy bars
- Survival knife
- Parachute cord
- Pocket-size radio
- Solar charger with batteries
Strategies for extra preparedness
The tips above are effective measures to be prepared for a disaster, but there is so much more you can do to ensure your safety during SHTF. Check out the following: (h/t to BackDoorSurvival.com)
- Create an emergency contact list. This list includes contact information of the police and fire department, local hospitals and each member of your family. Be sure to include telephone numbers, cellphone numbers and email addresses.
- Stockpile food and water. You need an adequate food and water supply for yourself and the members of your household since grocery stores will likely be empty when SHTF.
- Learn how to purify water. You can only keep so much water barrels at home, so you need a backup plan in case a survival scenario lasts longer than you have stockpiled for. There are several water purification methods that you can do at home.
- Stay in shape. You need to be physically fit during SHTF to perform manual labor for extended periods and defend yourself from attackers.
- Befriend like-minded preppers. These people can dole out tips and advice related to prepping.
- Prepare a bug-out plan. You need to bug out if your home is no longer safe. Choose a bug-out location and prepare a bug-out bag.
- Learn first aid basics. Stockpile first-aid supplies and learn how to perform first aid. When SHTF, emergency services will likely have their hands full.
You can take simple but effective measures like checking the weather and informing your loved ones of your destination in order to be prepared for a survival scenario. But it doesn't hurt if you go the extra mile and follow strategies like preparing a bug-out plan.
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