Some would say we’re living in the best of times and the worst of times. Every day, the news cycles churn out stories of cyber threats, power grid vulnerabilities, mysterious drones, potential viral outbreaks, and rising tensions (including nuclear) on the world stage. It’s enough to make anyone feel uneasy but fear gets you nowhere. Preparation, on the other hand, puts you in control. Having a solid emergency plan is common sense. If nothing bad ever happens, great! But if something does, being ready could be the difference between chaos and calm. Preparation is only half the battle. The other half? Keeping your cool. In high-stress situations, fear can cloud judgment and lead to bad decisions. Focus on facts, think logically, and avoid getting swept up in hysteria. Remember, most emergencies are temporary. Check out these tips to get you ready for whatever comes your way.

Food and Water

Without food and water, everything else falls apart. We’re not talking a basement packed with freeze-dried meals, but you do need enough non-perishable food to last at least two weeks. Think canned goods, rice, beans, pasta, and protein-packed snacks like nuts or jerky. If you go the canned route, don’t forget a manual can opener. Water is even more critical. Store at least one gallon per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. You can also purchase water purification tablets or a portable water filter if your tap water becomes unsafe.

Power Outages

Power outages are one of the most common emergency scenarios. A reliable generator can keep your essentials running, but don’t forget to stock up on fuel. Some people have opted to go with solar panels instead. If a generator’s not an option, invest in portable battery packs to charge devices. Solar chargers and crank-powered radios are also an option. For light, you may want to have a mix of flashlights, headlamps, candles, and lanterns on hand. Make sure you have plenty of batteries stored in a cool, dry place, and test your equipment regularly so you know it’ll work when you need it.

Communication

In an emergency, your smartphone might not cut it. Cellular networks can get overloaded, or you might lose service entirely. Two-way radios (walkie-talkies) are a solid backup for short-range communication. A battery-powered, solar or crank radio is needed for staying updated on weather alerts or government instructions. If you have family or close friends nearby, it would be good idea to establish a communication plan now. Everyone should know how to check in and where to meet if phones are down.

Security

In times of uncertainty, some people lose their minds, and crime spikes. A firearm is one of the best tools for self-defense, but it’s useless if you don’t know how to handle it. Train regularly, know your local laws, and keep your weapons secure yet accessible. Stock up on ammo while you can, but don’t hoard beyond what’s practical for your needs. Aside from firearms, you’ve got pepper spray, knives, and even baseball bats can help you defend yourself if the situation demands it.

First Aid and Medicine

If medical services are delayed or unavailable, you’ll need to rely on yourself. Build a robust first aid kit that includes bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, and gloves. Add over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal drugs, etc. If you or your family members rely on prescription meds, work with your doctor to get a backup supply and store all medicines in a cool, dry place, and regularly check expiration dates.

Miscellaneous Essentials

Keep these on your checklist:

Multi-tool: Useful for everything from opening cans to basic repairs.

Duct tape: You’ll be amazed at how often this comes in handy.

Cash: If the power’s out, ATMs and card readers won’t work.

Fire-starting tools: Lighters, waterproof matches, or fire-starting kits.

Hygiene supplies: Think toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap, pampers and feminine hygiene products.

Conclusion

Emergencies don’t wait until you’re good and ready. Regardless of the situation; a natural disaster, a cyberattack, or something else entirely, the time to prepare is now. Having the right tools, supplies, and mindset can turn a potentially catastrophic situation into a more manageable one. So, stock up, plan, and stay sharp. And if nothing ever happens? That’s the best-case scenario. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. To help you to be prepared for various emergency situations, we offer a series of pistol, rifle, empty-hand, and edged weapon courses. Give us a shout to let us know how we can best serve you.

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About The Author

Hank Hayes is a Combat Arts Hall of Famer and inventor of the No Lie Blade. He is the founder and CEO of both Intuitive Self Protection and NLB Tactical and creator of the ISP/NLB viscous fighting system. Since 1998, he has trained well over 30,000 Military and Law Enforcement personnel via Government contract mainly at the elite special teams level and continues to train both civilians and MIL/LE how to come home safe.