An EMP attack scenario is what keeps many emergency preppers awake at night. Whether it’s from a solar flare or a man-made weapon, an EMP event could bring down the electrical grid and critical infrastructure over large areas. In an instant, our modern way of life, reliant on electricity and digital tech, would grind to a halt. Grocery stores would run out of supplies, gas stations would go dark, and communication lines would go silent. Those who prepared in advance by stocking up on essentials could have a crucial advantage in the chaos. Let’s dive into key ways to prepare you for the possibility of an EMP attack and its lasting impact.
1. Battery Operated Radio
When communication is down, a battery-powered radio is a lifesaver. Remember extra batteries, and take the time to learn how to use them before you need them.
2. Stay Informed
In the aftermath of an EMP attack, important updates and instructions will likely be broadcast over the airwaves. Staying informed could be crucial to your survival by keeping your radio on and tuning to emergency channels for updates.
3. Water Supply
Electricity is essential for water pumps to work, so clean water might be hard to come by. Before an EMP attack, ensure you have enough drinking water stored in containers. Aim for at least one gallon per person daily for at least three days.
4. Food Supply
Like water, electricity is necessary for refrigeration and food storage, so stocking up on non-perishable items such as canned goods, dried fruits and vegetables, and protein bars is essential. Also, consider learning to hunt and fish if there is a disruption in the supply chain.
5. Bug Out Plan
It’s crucial to have a bug-out plan and a backup strategy to prepare for an EMP attack in case you can’t stay home. Designate a secure relocation spot, assemble an emergency kit, and rehearse the plan with your household members.
6. Faraday Cage
A Faraday cage acts as a shield, safeguarding electronic devices such as cell phones, radios, and laptops from EMP effects. Pre-made Faraday cages are available for purchase, or you can craft your own using metal containers like trash cans or filing cabinets lined with cardboard or rubber to insulate the electronics.
7. Backup Transportation
In case of an EMP attack, cars with electronic parts could stop working, so it’s wise to have backup transportation like bikes, horses, or vehicles not affected by EMPs. Choosing older cars from the 1960s, EMP-resistant newer models, or diesel vehicles with enough fuel and four-wheel drive is a good idea, especially if roads get blocked. Remember to have extra fuel for gas or diesel vehicles.
8. Learn How to Use Hand Tools
In a post-EMP world, power tools and machinery may not be available or working, so it is essential to have hand tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, and saws on hand. Consider taking classes or watching tutorials online on how to properly use these hand tools and practice using them in everyday tasks so you are comfortable with them in case of an emergency.
9. Learn Self-Defense
Surviving might be challenging in a post-EMP situation, where resources are scarce and danger is high. Learning self-defense skills can help protect you and your loved ones. Check out self-defense or online first aid courses to prepare for unexpected situations.
10. First Aid Supplies
A well-stocked first aid kit should include bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and prescription medications. Additionally, consider taking a first aid course or watching online tutorials to learn how to use these supplies properly in an emergency.
11. Means of Communication
During an EMP, communication systems may be disrupted or destroyed. Having a backup plan for staying connected with loved ones and receiving updates on the situation. Consider purchasing long-range walkie-talkies or ham radios for communication with others in your area and store them in a Faraday Bag to protect them from EMPs.
12. Learn Old School Survival skills
Learning old-school survival skills such as starting a fire without matches, hunting, fishing, growing your own food, purifying water, and basic first aid techniques is important. Consider taking classes or practicing these skills to prepare for any potential situation where modern conveniences are unavailable.
13. Install Solar Power
Solar energy is vital for running essential devices such as phones, radios, and small appliances in prolonged power outages. To have a reliable power source during emergencies, consider installing solar panels at home and getting portable solar chargers.
14. Get an Analog Clock and Thermometer
Analog clocks and thermometers do not rely on electricity and can still provide accurate time and temperature readings. These basic tools in your emergency kit can be beneficial during a crisis.
15. Water Purification
Consider investing in a water filter or purification tablets as backup water options if you cannot access clean water for an extended period. Additionally, remember to boil any gathered water before using a filter or purification tablets for added safety precautions.
16. Generator
Investing in a generator can offer a dependable electricity source to power vital appliances like refrigerators and medical devices during outages. Regular maintenance and testing are crucial to ensuring your generator functions as it should when required, and remember to store enough fuel to last for an extended period.
17. Light Sources
Multiple light sources, such as flashlights and batteries, candles, matches or lighters, solar-powered lanterns, and rechargeable battery-operated lights, can provide comfort and safety during a power outage. Remember to store these items in easily accessible places and periodically check the batteries’ expiration dates to ensure they’re still functional.
18. Alternative Sources to Cook
An alternative cooking source, such as a portable camp stove, grill, fire pit, or a wood or gas stove, can be essential during a power outage. Ensure enough fuel or wood is on hand to last for an extended period. It’s also a good idea to practice using these alternative cooking methods before an emergency happens.
19. Fire Starters
In a power outage, having fire starters on hand can be crucial. Fire starters can include matches, lighters, or homemade options like cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly. Store these in a waterproof container and keep them in a designated emergency kit for easy access during an outage.
20. Survival Guides
While we frequently depend on our phones and electronic devices for information, it’s crucial to have alternative resources ready for power outages. Keep physical copies of survival guides or emergency manuals in a secure location. These resources offer valuable insights and guidance on managing different emergency scenarios.
21. Multipurpose Tools
In a survival situation, having tools that can serve multiple purposes can significantly increase your chances of success and save you storage space. Consider investing in a good multi-tool or Swiss Army knife with various functions, such as pliers and screwdrivers, and knives that you can use for tasks like opening cans or fixing equipment on hand during power outages.
22. Batteries
Electromagnetic Pulses can damage electronic devices and render them useless; however, batteries naturally resist EMPs, making them an essential resource during emergencies. Store extra batteries in a waterproof container, and be sure to have different sizes for various devices such as flashlights, radios, and cell phones.
23. Microwaves
Microwaves can act as a Faraday cage, protecting electronic devices from electromagnetic pulses. In an emergency, you can place small electronics such as cell phones or laptops inside a microwave to protect them from potential damage. Remember to unplug the microwave before using it for this purpose.
24. Learn Emergency Driving Skills
During an EMP, cars and other vehicles could become unusable because of their electronic systems. Learning basic emergency driving skills, such as operating a vehicle without power steering or using manual brakes, is crucial. A defensive driving course can help you prepare for unexpected road situations in an EMP scenario.
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In the face of uncertainty, being well-prepared gives you at least some degree of control and security. The thought of a societal collapse, while extreme, prompts us to consider how we might endure without the conveniences of our current lifestyle. Here’s a list of 20 essential items that could prove indispensable in such a scenario. This guide isn’t about succumbing to fear but embracing preparedness and resilience.
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