Countdown to Preparedness

There are several things that you’ll want to have on hand in large quantities during and after a disaster. Many of these don’t neatly fit into specific categories, so I’m lumping them together in today’s lesson.

Sewing materials: These are things like needles, thread, and patches. Depending on the nature of the disaster, it might be some time before you’ll be able to buy new clothes. Get the necessary supplies and learn the skills for repairing clothing now. Remember, too, that you might not have the luxury of an electric sewing machine.

N95 masks: If there’s a pandemic, these masks when properly worn will dramatically decrease the chances of infection. They’re also great for dealing with dust and debris.

Duct tape: Duct tape has so many uses; make sure that you have several rolls.

Tarps: These are very good to have in the event of storm damage to the home. Get the larger sizes—it’s easy enough to fold them into smaller sizes, but it’s impossible to make small ones larger.

Plywood and dimensional lumber: If tarps won’t quite do the trick, plywood and two-by-fours usually will when it comes to temporary repairs for storm damage. Don’t forget nails, screws, and tools.

Paracord: Vastly superior to clothesline, paracord is very strong, yet small in size. You can use it for everything from replacement shoelaces to lashing items to the car during an evacuation.

Manual can openers: A pantry filled floor to ceiling with canned goods won’t help you much if you can’t open the cans. Have several manual can openers set aside in case of loss or breakage.

Boredom relievers: If you and your family are forced to shelter in place for the duration, the time might go by easier if you have a few decks of cards, some board games, and other fun things to do together. Keep in mind that if it’s an extended power outage during the winter, it’s best to have everyone stay in one room for warmth. Giving them all something to do together will help keep the stress level down.

Trash bags: Several uses including lining the toilet when the plumbing isn’t working, bagging up trash, temporary rain ponchos. If possible, pay a little extra to get contractor grade—the plastic is much more durable in them than in typical kitchen garbage bags.

Coolers: In the event of a power outage, having a few coolers will help you preserve at least some of your food before it goes bad. Picking them up at rummage sales will save you a few bucks.

WEEK 43 ASSIGNMENTS

TASKS

1. Begin stockpiling as many items from the above list as possible. If you think you have enough, get a few more of each just to be safe. Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.

2. Revisit the inventory lists you made at the beginning of this book. Update them as needed and work on filling in any gaps you see.

SAVINGS

Add $15 to your Prepper Savings Account.

TOTAL PREPPER SAVINGS ACCOUNT:

WATER STORAGE

One gallon (or two 2-liter bottles) per person or a case of bottled water for the household.

TOTAL WATER STORAGE:

GROCERY LIST

3 cans vegetables, your choice.

2 cans fruit, your choice, but stick with those packed in water or juice, rather than syrup

1 can chili or stew, your choice

1 package or jar gravy, your choice

1 jar peanut butter (if allergies are present, substitute an allergen-free version, such as SunButter)

1 box (12 packages) ramen noodles

1 jar honey (100% real honey, not flavored corn syrup)

1 lb white rice