[seeker1950]

(There was a previous thread that discussed this topic. Mods...merge them if you feel it is appropriate.)
I've been feeling worried about the world's situation lately. No one wants
to believe there could be another world war or apocalypse. But having been thru just one week here after the bad summer storm, without electricity in 100+ temps, no gas in my car, and no gas sold at stations anyway because of no electricity...I found myself down to peanut butter and crackers and water.
I would like to hear suggestions! of what you think would be essential.
Today, on Amazon, I ordered a thing you put in your bathtub to store water and keep it safe for drinking. It cost about $25 plus free shipping.
I also ordered a sampler case of freeze dried foods. These foods are safe to keep for something like 7 years. I'm also looking at cases of MRE's. I think i need some sort of Coleman cook stove, maybe just the 1 burner type for heating water, since these foods require hot water.
What about hygeine items, like toilet paper? I suppose one could do without but that wouldn't be very pleasant!

[whatbeanbelieved]

Well, you'd have to carry a small forest with you to make sure you have toilet paper forever, so I'm guessing you'd have to revert to using water (which is what people do in India mostly) and soap. Or, in the WORST case scenario, dried leaves (which isn't too NICE, but it's been done?).

I think food, water, clothing for all kinds of seasons and climatic possibilities, erm... some sort of guidebook about survival techniques, matches, torches, fuel of some sort for warmth, and shelter. Soap, medicines (very important). And, if you're like me, then books, books and more books and some tea. These things seem essential?

When we went through Hurricaine Ike, our whole family (immediate and extended) were without power and stores open for business for 16 days. My sister was without power for 32 days. Even with all the "technology" and how much "smarter we are these days", we were really taken aback by what power loss does to our lives and families.

We of course survived well, but we are now better prepared for such a situation that could be in our future. We have:

Chlorine bleach tablets (to purify contaminated water for drinking and washing etc.) These are very cheap online or at a local Wal-mart in the camping section.

Lots of unperishable food like dry beans, rice, cans of soup, cans of vegetables, sugar, flour etc. Also, although not imperishable, we tend to keep about a week's worth of beverages (bottled) for a family of 5.

Fire starter. This is also relatively cheap (cheaper than charcoal) and I found it at Wal-mart. We needed to start fires to boil the beans etc. on our bbq grill. (oh yeah, a bbq will come in handy too)

Matches in a plastic waterproof sandwich bag

Batteries, we have double A and C for our battery operated radio and flashlight.

These things are a really good start to an emergency preparedness kit. Another good thing to do to be prepared, is shut off your home's breaker for a few hours. See what you realize you can no longer do without power. Make your own list. The ideas really flow when you put yourself in the situation. Similar to a fire drill I guess. Good luck!

[Hatter08]

Well, if it were to happen you'd need more than just living necessities. I would want things that other people would need, that way if you ever need something you'll have stuff to trade for. Weapons are also important. My plan was to get a ton of bottled water, freeze dried and canned foods, weapons, clothing for all situations (including specially-made clothing to help protect against radioactivity). But on top of that, I would want to get books. One of the most important things for me is preservation of knowledge so that we don't go back to the stone age. Plus, in the movie Book of Eli, books are some of the most valuable things out there to some people.

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by lightbulb7

When we went through Hurricaine Ike, our whole family (immediate and extended) were without power and stores open for business for 16 days. My sister was without power for 32 days. Even with all the "technology" and how much "smarter we are these days", we were really taken aback by what power loss does to our lives and families.

We of course survived well, but we are now better prepared for such a situation that could be in our future. We have:

Chlorine bleach tablets (to purify contaminated water for drinking and washing etc.) These are very cheap online or at a local Wal-mart in the camping section.

Lots of unperishable food like dry beans, rice, cans of soup, cans of vegetables, sugar, flour etc. Also, although not imperishable, we tend to keep about a week's worth of beverages (bottled) for a family of 5.

Fire starter. This is also relatively cheap (cheaper than charcoal) and I found it at Wal-mart. We needed to start fires to boil the beans etc. on our bbq grill. (oh yeah, a bbq will come in handy too)

Matches in a plastic waterproof sandwich bag

Batteries, we have double A and C for our battery operated radio and flashlight.

These things are a really good start to an emergency preparedness kit. Another good thing to do to be prepared, is shut off your home's breaker for a few hours. See what you realize you can no longer do without power. Make your own list. The ideas really flow when you put yourself in the situation. Similar to a fire drill I guess. Good luck!

***

Good suggestions, Lightbulb! I've highlighted those things you mentioned.
As for nonperishable foods, like beans and rice, one would need to cook them, thus, needing a heat source. I'm glad you mentioned the firestarter and grill. I have the grill, never used it, but that would be a good way to cook rice and beans!

That is true Hatter08. Luckily, my brother-in-law is an avid gun collector and a licensed concealed weapon handgun carrier member. He watched over all of our families. There were stray dogs and cats everywhere, and it was sometimes necessary for him to shoot a round into the air after warning the neighbors.

All of our neighborhood became like one after the Hurricaine hit. Fences were blown down, figuratively and literally. It was a very humbling experience. The dogs and cats were ravenously hungry and were attacking some of the children. Many people stayed outside their homes a midst the panic in the air. It was a good feeling to know that there was protection from potential danger, in such an unpredictable time. Great point.

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by Hatter08

Well, if it were to happen you'd need more than just living necessities. I would want things that other people would need, that way if you ever need something you'll have stuff to trade for. Weapons are also important. My plan was to get a ton of bottled water, freeze dried and canned foods, weapons, clothing for all situations (including specially-made clothing to help protect against radioactivity). But on top of that, I would want to get books. One of the most important things for me is preservation of knowledge so that we don't go back to the stone age. Plus, in the movie Book of Eli, books are some of the most valuable things out there to some people.

***

Thanks for the suggesti0ns! Hatter. I find it hard to think of getting weapons! If I were able to stay in my own home, clothing wouldn't be a problem. As for clothing to protect from radioactivity...I don't have a clue. Books are always good, but I'm not sure I would want to stock up on them. I use my Kindle, LOL, but that wouldn't be functional, would it!

Originally Posted by lightbulb7

Another good thing to do to be prepared, is shut off your home's breaker for a few hours. See what you realize you can no longer do without power. Make your own list. The ideas really flow when you put yourself in the situation.

Fantastic idea. I like this one, as well.
Thanks

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by whatbeanbelieved

Well, you'd have to carry a small forest with you to make sure you have toilet paper forever, so I'm guessing you'd have to revert to using water (which is what people do in India mostly) and soap. Or, in the WORST case scenario, dried leaves (which isn't too NICE, but it's been done?).

I think food, water, clothing for all kinds of seasons and climatic possibilities, erm... some sort of guidebook about survival techniques, matches, torches, fuel of some sort for warmth, and shelter. Soap, medicines (very important). And, if you're like me, then books, books and more books and some tea. These things seem essential?

True, Bean! I know the ancient Romans used a sponge on a stick!

[Hatter08]

By homemade clothing, I mean clothing mostly to keep insulated in nuclear winter environments but there's also the potential danger of beta burns from radioactive particles on the skin. From what I've learned, take a brown paper bag and cut out a spot for the face, wrap a towel or something around the neck and wrap hands and feet in newspaper. These things are easy to get and must be disposed and changed regularly and taken off before entering structures to prevent poisoning others. Also get some UV-protective goggles. Nothing too fancy or hard to make. This is assuming we'll have to deal with nuclear weapons.

[Contrast]

You think you can outrun,
dearest mother nature?

There is no escape.

It's called Doomsday for a reason,
the sky will turn into smothered black oil and the stars will fall..
which would be my slice of cake because it would be like a LSD trip O.O

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by Hatter08

By homemade clothing, I mean clothing mostly to keep insulated in nuclear winter environments but there's also the potential danger of beta burns from radioactive particles on the skin. From what I've learned, take a brown paper bag and cut out a spot for the face, wrap a towel or something around the neck and wrap hands and feet in newspaper. These things are easy to get and must be disposed and changed regularly and taken off before entering structures to prevent poisoning others. Also get some UV-protective goggles. Nothing too fancy or hard to make. This is assuming we'll have to deal with nuclear weapons.

Hatter...well much thanks! I had no idea! It sounds a bit like the "aluminum hat" to protect from aliens, but if it would work, then that would be a great thing! Must start collecting brown paper bags and newspapers!

[DenisDonnacha]

if you live near a large amount of plants/trees an easy way to collect water is to wrap clear plastic around the ends, it collects moisture excreted from them, the plastic has to be clear though. I tried it before just as an experiment, one small tree and I got about half a cup of water from each bag at the end of the day.

[Timgt5]

one other thing of almost invaluable use- Duck Tape-it can mend almost anything.

Precious metals, gold, silver, platinum, to use as trading currency

At least one hand gun, one shotgun, and one rifle, with ammo for all three. The shotgun is an effective close quarters weapon, the handgun is good for self defense and the rifle for long range and hunting game. Also an AK-47 if you can get your hands on one, tough, easy to repair and very durable construction, it jams very infrequently when used and can stand up to harsh conditions on the move. Also an assorted set of knives would be handy.

Hunkering for cinematic apocalypse are we?

Duck tape rocks tho.

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by Timgt5

one other thing of almost invaluable use- Duck Tape-it can mend almost anything.

Precious metals, gold, silver, platinum, to use as trading currency

At least one hand gun, one shotgun, and one rifle, with ammo for all three. The shotgun is an effective close quarters weapon, the handgun is good for self defense and the rifle for long range and hunting game. Also an AK-47 if you can get your hands on one, tough, easy to repair and very durable construction, it jams very infrequently when used and can stand up to harsh conditions on the move. Also an assorted set of knives would be handy.

Thanks, Tim.
I agree about the duck tape!
As for weapons, as I said in this thread before, I just can't imagine! I mean...really...having to use a weapon!!!??? I guess this implies having to defend yourself or your property...preventing people from breaking in? Weapons harm people, kill people. I hope it doesn't come to that!

Although a bidet doesn't really feel like a survivalist tool, it is the answer to your toilet paper problem. Forever.

Another solution is to take a swim in the beach and let the saltwater scrape you clean.

Or you could just use a hose.

Toilet paper is not the answer though.

The most important tool for me is a bow and arrow, or crossbow. You won't run out of ammo, and you can hunt or defend your property successfully with it.

A sword of some sort is very useful as well, probably a machete for close-quarter home invasions.

Also maybe a manual generator, like a bike that generates power. Something like that.

[Contrast]

I forgot the name but there is this small town of 200 people in France in the mountains that is predicted to survive Doomsday and natural disasters..

Lol apparently there have been over 20,000 visitors to resort there when they feel it is the end.. you should check it out.. book a reservation and rest in mother nature's bomb shelter as the rest of humanity fades away.

I think it's called: Pic de Bugarach

Brilliant advice yall. I am taking notes. Peace, safety, and love, <3 From the Bustamante Family to yours

[Shiny Things]

I buy vegetable seeds whenever I see them on sale. I know they may never may germinate in the future, but in the event of the dreaded apocalypse I would nurture those seeds to bring forth a welcome something.

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by Shiny Things

I buy vegetable seeds whenever I see them on sale. I know they may never may germinate in the future, but in the event of the dreaded apocalypse I would nurture those seeds to bring forth a welcome something.

I noticed on Amazon there are actual "survival seed packs," which seem to be stored and sealed for years into the future.

[Timgt5]

Originally Posted by seeker1950

Thanks, Tim.
I agree about the duck tape!
As for weapons, as I said in this thread before, I just can't imagine! I mean...really...having to use a weapon!!!??? I guess this implies having to defend yourself or your property...preventing people from breaking in? Weapons harm people, kill people. I hope it doesn't come to that!

We would like to believe that law and order are always there for us, but when something goes terribly wrong, order is one of the first things to breakdown.

When the south central LA riots occured in 1992 (aftermath of the Rodney King verdict) the police were overwhelmed, and the rioters targeted Korean store owners, the Koreans were smart enough to have firepower to defend their property. It was a surreal scene watching the shopowners firing at looters, it looked like something from the third world. Eventually the national guard came in and restored order, but had not the shop owners defended themselves first many would have been killed or suffered thousands of dollars in losses.

Same thing in the 9th parish in the aftermath of Katrina in 2005, for several days those people may as well have been living in Mogadishu. People were heavily victimized by crime before the police could restore order.

I say this by the way not as person prone to violence. My thing is to do all that is possible to avoid ever harming someone at all costs, but I will kill to defend my life, those close to me, or my property if there is no other option. I hope that neither you, I or anyone else here would ever have to make that choice.

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by Timgt5

We would like to believe that law and order are always there for us, but when something goes terribly wrong, order is one of the first things to breakdown.

When the south central LA riots occured in 1992 (aftermath of the Rodney King verdict) the police were overwhelmed, and the rioters targeted Korean store owners, the Koreans were smart enough to have firepower to defend their property. It was a surreal scene watching the shopowners firing at looters, it looked like something from the third world. Eventually the national guard came in and restored order, but had not the shop owners defended themselves first many would have been killed or suffered thousands of dollars in losses.

Same thing in the 9th parish in the aftermath of Katrina in 2005, for several days those people may as well have been living in Mogadishu. People were heavily victimized by crime before the police could restore order.

I say this by the way not as person prone to violence. My thing is to do all that is possible to avoid ever harming someone at all costs, but I will kill to defend my life, those close to me, or my property if there is no other option. I hope that neither you, I or anyone else here would ever have to make that choice.

I know you are right about the violence, Tim. Even during the week long power outage here, I noticed how frantic people were, and not nice.

Watched a 2 hour tv show last night about how humans would respond to an alien attack and it involved us running to the hills and basically living in caves and fighting back with guerilla tactics. So if it comes to that you might have to live off the land.

First thing I would steal if there was a cataclysm would be some anti-biotics and cough syrup. Otherwise you could getting a nagging cough and it just gets worse and worse and there is nothing to treat it.

I think also if I could acquire a goat or two goats (for mating), then i would have milk for a while, and also if i could have chickens then i would have unlimited supplies of eggs. Chicken feed would be freely available even in a disaster because it's not an emergency item is it? I would go to a barnyard food store and take it all home.

[seeker1950]

Originally Posted by Illegal Toilet

Watched a 2 hour tv show last night about how humans would respond to an alien attack and it involved us running to the hills and basically living in caves and fighting back with guerilla tactics. So if it comes to that you might have to live off the land.

First thing I would steal if there was a cataclysm would be some anti-biotics and cough syrup. Otherwise you could getting a nagging cough and it just gets worse and worse and there is nothing to treat it.

I think also if I could acquire a goat or two goats (for mating), then i would have milk for a while, and also if i could have chickens then i would have unlimited supplies of eggs. Chicken feed would be freely available even in a disaster because it's not an emergency item is it? I would go to a barnyard food store and take it all home.

That sounds like my ex husband. He has a goat farm and loads of chickens! But I doubt he'd welcome me there as a freeloader!