Prepper Tips: For First Time Preppers
Dr. John Woods 10.11.18
John J. Woods
Magnolia Outdoor Communications
PREPPER TIPS: FOR FIRST TIME PREPPERS
As residents in Houston, Texas quickly realized with Hurricane Harvey prepper planning had to come months ahead of time. Last minute prep for a storm just about to hit land is just a course for chaos. The disaster scenario always seems to play out about the same.
When the final realization eventually hits home with calls for evacuations from storm targeted areas, the highways are jammed with people ill equipped to be escaping at all, much less from an F4 hurricane or catastrophic flood waters. If it is just human nature to put off the inevitable, then preppers need to learn to adopt just the opposite traits.
Though experience is the best teacher, there are other ways to learn advanced planning for any kind of a SHTF event, even a hurricane. First, it is critical that preppers in hurricane or other storm prone areas to know by history what the limitations are for hunkering down. At some point when things finally reach critical mass, a bug out becomes necessary. Know this point of no return.
Much has been written here and countless other sites or books about preparing Bug Out Bags with critical gear and supplies. These should be in “ready-to-go” mode at all times even though materials can be cycled in and out of these bags to keep items fresh. This means water, food, medical supplies, clothing, a good battery weather/news radio, cell phone with multiple option chargers, and items for personal protection as needed.
Initially think in terms of the first 72 hours of survival away from home, or at home if you decide to bug in, assuming that would be a wise option. So, that is 3 days of supplies for each person in your immediate group/family. This does not allow for taking on anybody else, unless you plan for it. If you have a pet(s), then plan for them, too.
Pending any kind of a developing SHTF situation, keep abreast of the news and official warnings at all times. Keep your primary escape vehicle fueled at capacity. Consider a safe fuel can(s) with 5-10 extra gallons of gas. Know all the viable escape routes from your location to several options away from the coming threat. If you plan to evacuate, get the jump and do so as early as possible.
Beginner preppers may be overwhelmed with such planning and execution. This is why it should be done well in advance, equipped, and practiced ahead of time. Remember that “prepping” stands for preparation.
