Episode # 438 Who Really Is A Prepper, And Three Levels Of Preparedness
The TV show “Doomsday Preppers” painted the prepping world in a very unfavorable light, and some people base their opinion of prepping based on that show.
I keep reading in various groups and forums where some people are saying that you must do this or that to be a prepper.
Well, I tell you that you don’t have to do any particular thing or have to have something specific to be prepared.
Do you have a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector? You’re a prepper. You are prepared for a fire.
Do you buy toilet tissue one roll at a time, or buy the multi pack? I’d bet that after 2020 you keep a decent supply. You’re a prepper!
Do you have auto insurance or wear a seat belt? I know, it’s required by law in most states, but a lot of people don’t. Would you believe that some people drive when they don’t even have a drivers license? If you do all three you are prepared in case of an accident or getting pulled over by law enforcement?
You may not call yourself a prepper, or even realize that you are, but we have already established that in fact, you ARE a prepper.
Now we just need to define it a little more, and help you find the level of prepping you’d like to be doing.
Definition:
A prepper is an individual who engages in activities and preparations to be self-reliant and ready for various emergencies or disruptions, such as natural disasters, economic challenges, or social unrest.
What does a prepper do?
A prepper will focus on skills, resources, and strategies for survival in adverse conditions.
We will stockpile essential supplies, develop survival skills, and have a mindset of preparedness. All this to protect oneself and loved ones in times of crisis.
The concept of prepping often involves different levels or stages of preparedness,
Three common levels of prepping:
It's important to note that the levels are not strictly defined
Basic Preparedness:
Level I Few days up to a couple of weeks
Focus: The most basic of necessities and short-term disruptions.
Preparations:
Emergency kits, first aid supplies, water, non-perishable food,
and basic tools.
It’s what’s in recommended in the FEMA and Red Cross 72 hour kit
Duration: Short-term, covering potential disruptions like power outages or temporary evacuations.
Intermediate Preparedness:
Level II Several weeks to six or so months
Level II Focus:
Sustained self-sufficiency for several weeks to months.
Addresses more extended challenges such as natural disasters, especially hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, economic instability, food shortages, and supply chain interruptions.
Level II Preparations:
Enhanced food and water storage, alternative energy sources, basic survival skills, and
additional supplies for longer-term disruptions.
Level II Duration:
Several Weeks to months,
Advanced Preparedness - Level III
Level III Focus:
Long-term self-sufficiency for extended disruptions, grid down situations, economic collapse, particularly from a depression or hyper-inflation, societal collapse, and ther long-term challenges
Level III Preparations:
Sustainable living practices, advanced homesteading skills, renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydro.
Level III preppers will have a high level of security measures.
They will usually focus on community building or group building.
Level III Duration:
Months to multi-years
Your level of prepping is determined by your specific needs, and what you believe is your own level of risk.
We personally sit in that level two category.
We don’t have a bunker.
We don’t have a bug out location somewhere in the woods.
We don’t have five years of food stored.
We don’t have a homestead, but we have grown some of our own food, and will grow more in 2024.
Our only plan for a nuclear attack is to just go on home to be with the Lord.
We really wouldn’t want to survive that
And probably wouldn’t, living in close proximity to a major target
Here’s a list of items and skills that someone might consider for level III prepping:
Water Storage:
Increase water storage capacity with larger containers or multiple containers.
Consider water purification methods
Water filters
Purification tablets
Boiling
Food Storage:
Expand food storage to cover several months.
Non-perishable foods
canned goods, grains, and dehydrated items.
Emergency Cooking Solutions:
Invest in alternative cooking methods, such as a camping stove or solar cooker. - Store additional fuel for cooking.
Alternative Energy Sources:
Invest in solar panels, portable generators, or other alternative energy sources.
Acquire rechargeable batteries and solar-powered chargers.
Basic Survival Skills:
Situationally dependent
Learn and practice essential survival skills like fire-building, shelter construction, and navigation.
Take first aid and CPR courses.
Communication:
Have alternative communication methods, such as a two-way radio.
Establish a communication plan for emergencies.
Security Measures:
Be prepared to protect your family, yourself, your property
Consider security measures such as reinforced doors and windows.
Acquire basic self-defense skills and tools.
Sustainable Gardening:
Start a vegetable garden for a renewable food source.
Basic Home Repairs:
Learn how to perform simple home repairs.
Have basic tools and materials on hand for quick fixes.
Financial Preparedness:
Establish an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.
Be able to handle a $500-$1000 repair or emergency
Be smart with your money
Extended First Aid Supplies:
Expand your first aid kit to include more comprehensive medical supplies. - Learn advanced first aid techniques.
Personal Hygiene and Sanitation:
Stock up on personal hygiene items and sanitation supplies.
Consider alternative sanitation solutions if utilities are disrupted.
Five gallon bucket W/ trashbag liner, kitty litter
More comfortable w/ pool noodle or snap on seat
Bedside commode w/ 5 gal bucket and liner, & kitty litter
Regular Review and Update your prepping supplies, plans, and skills.
Stay informed about potential risks and adjust your preparations accordingly.
Remember that becoming an intermediate prepper is a gradual process
Prioritize based on your specific circumstances and concerns.
Along the way, you may want to consider:
Advanced Training: -
Such as wilderness survival, self-defense, or homesteading. –
Attend workshops and courses related to your prepping interests.
Continual learning is a key aspect of prepping at any level.
Community Engagement: -
Connect with like-minded individuals or join local prepper groups. –
Establish a community support system for mutual assistance.
We'll close with Merry Christmas and remember:
Stuff happens. Stay prepared.
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