Preparedness
Master These Forgotten Skills for True Survival Preparedness
When most people think about preparedness, their minds often jump to stockpiling supplies like food and weapons. However, true preparedness extends far beyond simply amassing goods. It involves acquiring a diverse set of life-sustaining skills that were second nature to our grandparents. In the event of a crisis, such as an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) event, these skills could prove invaluable.
Cooking from scratch is a foundational skill for any survivalist. In today’s fast-paced world, many people rely on pre-packaged meals and dining out, often neglecting the art of preparing meals from basic ingredients. If you’re serious about preparedness, mastering the ability to cook from scratch is non-negotiable. “You might be surprised how many young people are not used to cooking even something as simple as scrambled eggs, let alone a full meal.”
Healthcare knowledge is another crucial area. Society today often turns to doctors and medication for even the slightest ailment. In contrast, past generations were adept at managing their health independently. Understanding how to care for yourself and your family without immediate medical intervention can be a game-changer in a long-term survival scenario.
Growing and foraging skills are equally vital. When supermarket shelves are bare, the ability to cultivate your own food and identify edible wild plants becomes essential. Gardening and foraging are not as simple as they may seem; they require physical endurance and knowledge of safe practices.
Sewing is another skill that might not seem immediately necessary but can be incredibly useful. Whether it’s making new clothes or repairing existing ones, sewing offers a practical solution when shopping is no longer an option. Additionally, skills such as spinning, weaving, and knitting can provide valuable trade opportunities.
Handling livestock safely and providing basic veterinary care is crucial for those who rely on animals for meat, dairy, or fiber. Even seemingly simple tasks, like managing chickens, can pose risks if done incorrectly. Being knowledgeable in this area ensures the health and productivity of your livestock.
For those who consume meat, hunting, trapping, and butchering skills are indispensable. Procuring meat in the wild requires understanding various hunting methods and knowing how to butcher an animal safely to maximize its yield.
Carpentry and construction skills round out the list of essential survival skills. While building an entire house might not be necessary, knowing how to construct a small shed or perform basic home repairs is invaluable.
This list is by no means exhaustive, but it offers a starting point for evaluating what skills you currently possess and which you might want to develop further. “Keep learning and adding to your skills bank.” Community colleges and county extension offices often offer classes on a wide range of topics, from backyard chicken keeping and first aid to furniture building and blacksmithing. These resources can provide affordable opportunities to expand your skill set.
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