Excellent discussion and learning thread. I don't consider ourselves to be preppers or survivalists. However, I'd say we're realists! Just a few thoughts for your consideration.
Getting everyone in your family on board is probably the best, but sometimes the hardest, issue. You can't go it alone unless you're a recluse living in the mountains and that's even questionable. Education and communication are key. If you have friends who are prepared talk to them. Ask questions. Read select books and articles. I do not advocate watching the doom and gloom survivalist porn on tv. They are always in a panic mode about something new and seem to live in constant fear of everything. All about ratings?
One of the biggest decisions - do you maintain your current homestead (so called bugging in) or leave immediately or as the situation gets worst (bug out). I've always favored staying in place if possible. You know what you have, you know the surroundings, you know your neighbors, and frankly you can't take everything with you. Only evacuate the known if it's a dire situation. A few years ago we had to evacuate on very short notice for a major forest fire. Wasn't easy, especially not knowing for how long. I frankly don't see many good choices for longterm bugging out unless you have friends or relatives who permanently live somewhere else and, with their concurrence, you've prepositioned things you might need with them ahead of time. Don't show up uninvited! And remember, their house, their rules.
Access the adequacy of your supplies based on whatever goal you set for yourself. After this last month, I doubt many will still agree with the government recommendation of 72 hours worth of stuff. Do you need a week, two weeks, a month or longer? Up to you and what you can afford. This current pandemic provides a perfect opportunity to do an assessment. Most importantly, make some notes. Document your shortfalls including shortfalls in your knowledge. Prioritize these shortfalls and implement a plan to address each one.
Think from both a tactical and strategic point of view. Not just talking about homestead and family security. If this situation goes beyond a few months what are the things that must be considered now and start preparing for them today. For example, do you have medical supplies and the knowledge to use them if you can no longer access your doctor or your dentist? Today, the last place I want to visit is my doctor's office or a hospital!
Keep some cash on hand! If the credit card machines and atms don't work plastic is worthless. Some advocate gold and silver. My only question - do you really think the local food market, gas station or farmer will take your gold or silver over someone elses twenty dollar bill? Small bills and coins are recognized by every one. However, down the road barter will become king. It will be a dynamic marketplace with folks trading many different things including labor. One thing I'd not advocate is trading ammo. May come back at you in the future.
Hope you find these thoughts helpful and taken in the spirit they are being offered. We have been enjoying good times. Maybe somewhat less in the last couple of months but hard times loom on the horizon. Be prepared.
Regards
I actually use the masks for their intended purpose. We are not "out" yet, but in a month or two we will be...
