Always have a “SHTF” plan. Anyone seeking survival help should have one. This lovely acronym really captures the sense of helplessness one can feel when faced with the reality of a sudden catastrophe. Whether your goal be survival of a financial spill, an inescapable natural disaster, or even political turmoil, when “it” Hits-The-Fan, you’ll know it, and that realization can leave any normally sensible person feeling hapless and overwhelmed instantly. That is why it is so important that no matter what supplies or survival training you feel you lack, you simply start by establishing a basic SHTF plan.
Luckily for you, a survival plan can be simple and still be effective. Begin by designating a “SHTF” meeting place, an evacuation route (if necessary), and having a small grouping of both sheltered supplies and portable supplies(your “Bug-Out bag”) that will help carry you thru the short amount of time you need to set up longer term survival means.
When determining your meeting place, start by thinking of which areas are better equipped for survival than others for particular events. For instance, as children growing up in “Tornado Alley” we all were taught that the best “At Home” meeting place was the central hallway in our house. This area was ideal because it was void of windows and glass which are always the first concern with high winds. If, for instance, you live an earthquake prone region, an area of the home safe from objects falling on you would be better suited for immediate survival.
Next designate some nearby supplies that you will need for a “Stay-At-Home” survival event. Again, in the case of a tornado, we all knew to grab flashlights for light when the power went out, and to grab mattresses for cover which would help shield us from debris and wind if the tornado was to hit directly. For food, canned goods and rice and grains are always good to keep in stock to help avoid hunger in the short-term. For water, bottled and gallons of drinkable water was our family’s temporary supply.
In a scenario where it is necessary to leave your home or immediate location for survival, a “Bug-Out” bag is essential to short-term survival. Since your goal is to carry enough supplies for you and your family to survive for three days in the wilderness, you will want to start with items you already have at home and will be needed to make the transition. Collapse-able knives, matches, rope or paracord, a small tent or thick plastic tarp are all things you may already own or be able to find both easily and cheaply.
The idea of the “Bug-Out” bag is for it to be easily transportable by the person it is meant to sustain and to keep you and loved ones alive long enough to set up your long-term survival assets.
If you follow these few helpful tips for survival planning, you will be more equipped to avoid a mental breakdown and be far better prepared to face a slew of events that could affect the lives of you and your family.
