I'm a starting prepper and I'm preparing for a large earthquake or a wildfire. Have any of the things that you are prepping for come to fruition, and if so, how has your prepping worked out for you?
Just curious!
Posted Jan 5, 2015, 8:54 PM UTC
Old age.
I use wrinkle cream too.
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Nice! Have you ever had to "bug out" and use all that stuff and your knowledge?
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Yikes! Glad you survived! I'll get extra batteries.
What was that week like for you? I've always wondered what the day to day stuff is like after a major disaster like that.
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Zombie Apocalypse. So far winning
What do you know!?! Me too!! Yay humans!
Im not a full on prepper but I try to be ready for a week or so without power from storms. Tornadoes and ice storms are pretty common here in Oklahoma.
I haven't considered life without power yet. Seems dark and cold...and boring. I'll look into that!
Honestly, I prep for whatever comes my way. The main concern in my mind is a hurricane.... dealt with many. Then again, there's terror attacks, civil unrest, etc. We can't predict what is in store for us, which is why prepping is so important. Regardless of the situation, I know that my family will survive.
In past hurricanes, the area was without power for 2 weeks or more. People didn't have food and water, and had to walk miles to get to the Red Cross for help. We never needed to leave the house. We had water from the well, could flush the toilets, had stockpiles of food and medical supplies, and the knowledge to survive on the land regardless. Of course, we have weapons to take down alligator, deer and bear, as well as fishing gear too.
We also ensure that all of our vehicles are kept at 3/4 tank or more. This is a family rule. The gas cans, mowers, generators, and propane tanks are pretty much kept full too. We have cases of batteries, loads of candles and charcoal briquettes. We did quite well, and even built on what we did and had then. We are more prepared now than ever.
Sounds like your prepping paid off! I can't imagine life without power for an extended period of time. I'm looking into getting a generator and stocking up on gas and oil for it. Any recommendations?
What was the general atmosphere and feeling of the people after not having power, food, water, etc. for so long? Another poster said that at around a week w/o power, people started to get a bit restless. What was your experience like?
Indeed, it did. Without power, people go a little crazy. This is especially true when people's homes, cars, and properties have been damaged. Generators are a great investment. Most people find that storing fuel is an issue. Like I said, I keep all of the vehicles with gas in them, including the spare mowers, motorcycles that are used infrequently and even my antique Vette. We do have a number of 5 gallon gas cans as well. These are constantly rotated, and kept in a shed far away from our living space. This is approximately 3000 feet away from the main house. It's close enough to access when needed, but far enough away that it's not a major safety hazard to the house. We do keep oil in the shed as well.
After all of the hurricanes, people went a little crazy. There is never an issue for the first three days. I guess that's because the government says to prep for 3 days. After that, people are out looking for food and water. Because our compound is out in the Everglades, few people flock to it. Most try getting into the city where the stores are, but to no avail. We did have eight or ten groups that did request some supplies, and we did give them minimal aid. By this, I mean enough water and food for a few days. We do explain that this is a one handout, and we don't have anymore to give. I think only 2 people ever came back asking for more. No one ever tried to get over the walls or create problems. The advice is always the same... "you should have been better prepared". I do provide water, but never additional food. My water supply is infinite.
The power issue seems to be huge. I guess the walls and the security gives away the fact that we have power. I don't know however; we never let anyone into the compound. It's safer this way.
Thank you for your insight! I try to keep my cars tanks at 1/2 full, but 3/4 seems like a better idea. I'll need to work on a feasible gas storage solution.
I live in the desert, so water will definitely be an issue. I have a huge pool in the back yard, and I figure that will be a good supply of water. With that being said, I've never given thought to having to defend it if shit hit the fan. I do have guns, knifes, big dogs and a fence though. It was very kind of you to share your water with those in need. And, very smart to place a "one time only" stipulation on it!
Did you ever worry for your safety? I can understand that people will get wonky after 3 days, I would too!
The desert is surely set up for a water issue. Do you have a water catchment system? The water can be stored when it does rain, for when you need it. Of course, you'll need to purify the water. Tablets, bleach, a homemade system or a lifestraw will work. Sure boiling also is acceptable.
Defending the property is a big thing. We have a large group... 27 adults, 17 kids from 12-17, and 2 littles. We also have 11 Newfoundlands who control the property as well. We have a substantial array of weapons, and the compound is walled, fenced, gated. Security is key.
We have several wells, a pond, the canals and an 18K gallon pool on the property. Sharing a little water won't kill us, but I can't have people rely on us for their survival. We have enough people to care for, and they work hard on the property.
My safety is never an issue. Unless China invades and sends a boatload of troops to my property, I'm good. We did have one person try to get over the fence, but being met with a group of heavily armed individuals was enough for an "i'm sorry. I'll leave" It was just a kid, like early 20s but an example needed to be set. It hasn't happened since. So yes, people do get wonky.
got sucked into the hype of government/economic collapse prepping, then realized that every day disasters are ones that will actually happen. Coat, gloves, water, food in car in case i get stranded. first aid kit and knowledge of how to use it. fire extinguishers. not as sexy as a bunker, but actually worthwhile.
Smart! I have junk in my car trunk, but nowhere what I should have. I need a fire extinguisher. Thanks for the ideas!
One thing that I have stocked up on is first aid stuff. I feel that if my family and neighbors were injured that is it my duty, being a nurse, to help in that aspect. I've noticed a trend among preppers is to accumulate and acquire items, but not always knowing how/what to do when shit hits the fan with all that stuff. At very least, I know I can put a band-aid on like a boss!