Preparedness
Start Your Preparedness Journey Today With These Essential Tips
It’s never too late to embark on the journey of preparedness. Whether prompted by recent supply chain disruptions or inspired by scenarios in books like “One Second After,” many people are beginning to recognize the importance of being ready for unforeseen events. From natural disasters like hurricanes and blizzards to personal emergencies, the reasons to prepare are numerous and varied.
Starting this journey can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of what “everything” entails beyond the basics of food and toilet paper. The traditional prepping mantra of “beans, bullets, and bandaids” remains relevant, but without a strategic plan, trips to the store can lead to wasted time and resources.
Another key principle in the world of preparedness is “Two is one, and one is none.” This doesn’t necessarily mean doubling every item but rather having multiple methods to achieve your goals. For instance, while one approach might be more labor-intensive, it ensures that you have a backup if your primary method fails.
The first step in effective prepping is to take stock of what you already have. You might be surprised to find a week’s or even a month’s worth of supplies in your pantry. It’s essential to discard expired items, which are often impulse purchases that no one wanted to consume. Focus on what you and your family eat regularly, particularly canned goods, which tend to have long shelf lives.
Budgeting is the next critical step. Even if finances are tight, it’s possible to make progress without incurring debt. For those with more flexible budgets, adopting frugal strategies can help stretch resources further.
Once you’ve acquired supplies, consider where you’ll store them. Space can be a limiting factor, especially for those in smaller living quarters. It’s crucial to plan storage solutions before making large purchases to avoid clutter and inefficiency.
Grocery prices can vary widely, but it’s possible to start small with a $20 budget, gradually increasing as resources allow. Sample lists can guide purchases, but it’s vital to tailor them to your family’s preferences to ensure a practical rotation of supplies. Utilizing the First In, First Out (FIFO) method can prevent the discovery of expired items buried in the back of cupboards.
For those aiming for a more extensive supply, there are various calculators available to help determine the quantities needed for different time frames. Tools like the Food Guys Food Storage Calculator and the EZPrepping Food Storage Calculator can offer valuable insights.
In addition to traditional grocery shopping, consider investing in dehydrated or freeze-dried foods. Companies like Mountain House, My Patriot Supply, and Augason Farms offer long-term storage solutions with shelf lives ranging from 20 to 30 years. These products, especially freeze-dried fruits, are convenient and often require minimal preparation, making them ideal for emergencies and everyday use.
Despite current demand and potential delays in shipping, companies like My Patriot Supply remain well-stocked, offering reliable options for those ready to take the next step in preparedness. Remember, preparedness is not just about survival; it’s about peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
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