Triggering Events
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By Denis Korn
Please do not hide from the events that are occurring around you!
As you reflect on the scenarios that you presume might – or might not – occur, think about the concept of a “triggering event.” Ask yourself, What are the triggering events that will motivate me to immediate action? What triggering event will launch the imminent arrival of the scenario I have presumed might occur or thought wouldn’t occur?” If you have created a list of triggering events, you will be on the look out for possible immediate action.
It is time to be specific! Whether an emergency can be short term and have only a minimal disruption in your daily routine, or catastrophic requiring a significant change in life style, apathy and ignorance will not be bliss. While I’m not a prophet or psychic, I do have the discernment skills to realize that we live in very precarious and uncertain times. Between acts of God, geophysical events, and devastating man-made incidents, there are so many potential scenarios that could come to pass, that being continually vigilant is essential.
Based on the diversity of potential scenarios listed at the bottom of this post, here are some of my specific and significant triggering events:
Be encouraged – I hope none of these events or circumstances ever happen – And if they do God help us – as we help ourselves, our loved ones and our neighbors!
From a previous post
Currently a growing number of people believe serious physical, political and economic events could be occurring worldwide, it is once again essential to direct your attention to what I have identified as a “triggering event.” Simply put, if you are still hesitating to prepare for emergencies or disasters, I urge you to identify and assign significance to a triggering event that will finally motivate you to provide for yourself and family during a significant emergency.
I have written on this subject before – it is even more timely today than it was then. Folks that have followed my posts know that I do not subscribe to the doom-and-gloom end-of-the-world mindset. One’s proper attitude regarding disaster planning is essential in maintaining the environment for critical thinking and effective results. You are not only what you eat – you are what you think and what you focus your attention on.
Being able to discern reality from fantasy – hopeful thinking from critical thinking – prudent planning from no planning – wise counsel from foolish counsel – the truth from the lie – a slick sales pitch from the facts, can be the difference between distress and peace of mind or even life and death during an unforeseen emergency.
You don’t have to believe in catastrophic events to be prepared. Being prepared for the unexpected is simply a good idea. Whatever your perspective, being aware of world events during these critical times and their potential effect upon you and your family and friends is the responsible attitude to embrace.
Many folks are reluctant to plan, or they assume that the government or others will take care of them, or they are just too busy, or they just don’t think it is necessary. As an option to doing nothing or to enhance some other method of emergency preparedness planning you have chosen, consider the following. As you reflect on the scenarios that you presume might – or might not – occur, think about the concept of a “triggering event.” Ask yourself, “What are the triggering events that will motivate me to immediate action?” “What triggering event will launch the imminent arrival of the scenario I have presumed might occur or thought wouldn’t occur?” If you have created a list of triggering events, you will be on the lookout for possible immediate action. This is especially important if you have considered scenarios that will have a long term impact on the supply of goods and services that are required to sustain your basic needs.
If there are items that are essential to your well-being such as medical products, devices, children’s products, or special nutritional foods, then being alert to a potential disruption of vital needs is crucial. While it is always desirable to plan and have provisions in place, it is better to react at the last minute than not at all. Know exactly what you need, how much will be adequate, where you have to go to supply your needs, how you will get there, and how you will pay for your supplies. Obviously, some scenarios may offer some prior indications, such as hurricanes, storms, or economic/political issues; while others can occur without warning. You are responsible – you must choose to act or not – unfortunately, nonaction can have severe consequences for yourself and your family!
If you have been hesitant to act or even reflect about preparedness planning you are encouraged to seriously consider this post.
Scenarios
Time Frames
3 Days to 2 Weeks
Minor to moderate inconvenience and disruption of the daily routine. Basic supplies in the first 3 days would be valuable for comfort but not essential. An adequate amount of basic supplies after 3 days are important.3 Weeks to 2 Months
The inconvenience is very noticeable and the routine disruption can be significant. Supplies required are usually on hand, and stockpiling some supplies will be very important.
3 Months to 6 Months
Preparedness planning is very important and a serious disruption to the daily routine is inevitable. Mobility and location to wait out the emergency is important in your planning. Proper supplies will be critical. Medical and other special needs must be planned for in advance.
6 Months to 1 Year
Unless you are very prepared and are committed to self-reliance, in this time frame your lifestyle will definitely be impacted. Serious attention to your preparedness planning is required. The questions covered in the foundational articles must be answered and a realistic plan created. Action and provisions are essential. You will be dealing with serious issues during this time period, and you must be prepared.
1 Year or More
Scenarios actualized in this time frame are this most serious and catastrophic, and will require a serious commitment to lifestyle changes. You will be dealing with national and worldwide calamity. The extent of the impact on everyone’s life can not be over emphasized. Significant and detailed planning is required, and even with this an emergency situation of this duration will be wrought with uncertainty. This will be a time for community togetherness, sharing, and mutual support. Skills not normally possessed by folks will be required. Gardening and other self-reliant skills will be essential. Books, tools, and other valuable resources will be vital.
By Denis Korn
Let us pray that 2019 will be a year of right living, right thinking, right planning, discernment and an attitude of true hope and faith. May the Truth be with you and may you discover who you can truly trust!
These 10 Foundational Elements of Emergency Preparedness Planning – AND RESILIENCY – and the suggested links are in my opinion an essential component to the beginning, improving and solidifying an effective, successful and beneficial preparedness and disaster survival plan. You are encouraged to conscientiously evaluate and embrace the information given and the guidance provided by the questions contained in the linked articles.
The wise and foolish builders
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like the foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
MATT 7:24 – 27 (NIV) 
1 – Attitude
The importance of a proper and confident attitude is essential and key to not only planning for an emergency, but also surviving an emergency. The right attitude is the cornerstone and foundation of the preparedness process. The three aspects of an appropriate attitude include: the pragmatic and realistic; the emotions and thoughts: the religious and spiritual.
An appropriate attitude is essential not only to survival, but also to effective functioning during a severe emergency. Your emotional and spiritual viewpoint is the sustaining components of enduring any emergency circumstance. The longer the crisis the higher degree of stress and anxiety, which will affect your health and well-being.
How serious are you? Do you believe it is essential for you and your family to incorporate the proper emotional and spiritual attitude in your preparedness planning? Who do you ultimately rely on for comfort, strength, and hope? Where is your faith?
Without a thoughtful, reasoned, sincere and discerning attitude regarding potential emergencies with potentially devastating circumstances, conditions, and outcomes, or the possible detrimental effects on family, friends, groups, and community – this article or any presentation or investigation into preparedness planning and resiliency is an exercise in futility.
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms–to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”
— Viktor Frankl, MD, Ph.D. 1905 – 1997 Psychologist, Philosopher, Author and Survivor of 4 Nazi Concentration Camps
“Frankl’s wisdom here is worth emphasizing: it is a question of the attitude one takes toward life’s challenges and opportunities, both large and small. A positive attitude enables a person to endure suffering and disappointment as well as enhance enjoyment and satisfaction. A negative attitude intensifies pain and deepens disappointments…” William Winslade in the Afterword to Man’s Search for Meaning (2006 printing)
READ: Your Attitude is Your Decision – Own it!
2 – Critical Thinking and Discernment
While many think developing critical thinking skills are for the beginning philosophy student, they are vital for everyone. Recognizing and overcoming the barriers to critical thinking are essential in creating and maintaining genuine, honest, and nurturing relationships and making effective and appropriate decisions.
A common denominator of these barriers is that the individual has no control over their effects. They are held captive by defective responses and impressions. One “reacts” to a situation, idea, or challenge, whereas the critical thinker “chooses” the process of thoughtful evaluation – embracing – and embodiment. The critical thinker has the freedom to rightly assess circumstances and concepts, and the result is to arrive at an appropriate and insightful conclusion and reasonable outcome.
In the pursuit of the embodiment of critical thinking skills always be mindful of the value and necessity of honesty, wisdom, discernment, and the need to distinguish the truth from the lie. We live in an unprecedented time of media, institutional, educational, and political self-interest that will not hesitate to use any means possible to achieve its objectives including deceptive indoctrination techniques, propaganda, deceitfulness, fallacious argumentation, and fraud.
READ: Barriers to Critical Thinking
3 – Overcoming the Normalcy Bias – The attachment to inaction
The normalcy bias refers to a mental state people enter when facing a disaster. It causes people to underestimate both the possibility of a disaster occurring and its possible effects. Denial is the operative state of mind. This often results in situations where people fail to adequately prepare for a disaster, and on a larger scale, the failure of the government to include the populace in its disaster preparations. The assumption that is made by many in the case of the normalcy bias is that since a disaster has never occurred to them, then it never will happen. It also results in the inability of people to cope with a disaster once it occurs. People with a normalcy bias have difficulties reacting to something they have not experienced before. People also tend to interpret warnings in the most optimistic way possible, seizing on any ambiguities to infer a less dangerous situation.
The normalcy bias often results in unnecessary deaths in disaster situations. The lack of preparation for disasters often leads to inadequate shelter, supplies, and evacuation plans. Even when all these things are in place, individuals with a normalcy bias often refuse to leave their homes. The normalcy bias also causes people to drastically underestimate the effects of the disaster. Therefore, they think that everything will be all right, while information from the radio, television, or neighbors gives them a reason to believe there is a risk. This creates a cognitive dissonance that they then must work to eliminate. Some manage to remove it by refusing to believe new warnings are coming in and refusing to evacuate (maintaining the normalcy bias), while others eliminate the dissonance by escaping the perceived danger.
READ: Normalcy Bias – Why People are Attached to Inaction
4 – Scenarios
What are the circumstances or scenarios you have determined may exist that will require you to rely upon your preparedness supplies?
What will be the severity and impact of those circumstances on your life? (This is not only the most important and first question to answer, but it is also often the question most overlooked, or not considered critically enough). Given your potential scenarios, how thoroughly have you researched the available options for food, water, medical, shelter, hygiene, and other categories of critical supplies? Are you prepared for emergencies during all seasons of the year? Is your family more susceptible to certain crises? How would your scenarios impact you or your family’s daily routine? Work or livelihood? How will you protect yourself and family against those who might do you harm? The grid is essential to most homes and businesses – if it is down, how long could you function? What would society look like without the grid, and a prolonged cessation of the availability of vital goods and services? Do you have back up power?
How long will your emergency scenario last, and what is the duration of time for which you will be preparing?
This is another critical question, and while it is difficult to envision the difficult details that might occur, the adequacy of your preparedness planning and supplies is directly tied to honestly answering this question. The longer the duration of the emergency the more effect it will have on multiple aspects of one’s daily routine and lifestyle, and the need to be focused on the diversity of situations that will surround you.
READ: Beginning and Improving Preparedness Planning
The #1 Preparedness Question – What’s Your Scenario? (Why?)
5 – Knowledge and Skills
What preparedness knowledge do you personally have that is important in providing specific information and instructions needed during the emergency or emergencies for which you are preparing?
How about the knowledge of family or friends? What informational resources and references – books and other tangible items – do you have or have access to? How confident are you that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to be responsible and effective for yourself and your family during an emergency?
The realization that you have the appropriate knowledge and have adequately prepared for unforeseen emergencies is an essential factor in discovering and embodying peace of mind.
READ: The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning
6 – Preparation and Action
The first step in the preparedness planning process is the acknowledgment that you have made a wise and sound decision and have chosen to take responsibility for you and your family, and to be prepared in the event of unexpected circumstances. Be encouraged to continue this process with diligence, motivation, and discernment.
This process is undertaken in three phases – each one of which will take as much time as you wish to devote, and the degree of urgency you are experiencing.
READ: Beginning and Improving Preparedness Planning
7 – Supplies
For most people planning for emergencies, it is similar to preparing for a camping trip or any other outdoor adventure where the usual conveniences of home are not available. The most significant difference is determining whether to plan for being away from home or being in your residence – or perhaps both. The equipment to include in your emergency kit or camping supplies list will be very comparable. Differences and variations will generally depend upon the severity and length of time you anticipate for your emergency scenario. Long term emergencies and outdoor explorations will require more extensive planning and provisioning.
Important questions to answer as you do your planning:
Are the equipment and supplies necessary to fulfill your needs going to be based on how cheap they are, or on the quality, value, and reliability of the product? What are the repercussions or benefits from the choices that you make? Who is affected? What chances are you willing to take with inferior and inadequate provisions? What will the climate be during the emergency or adventure? What is the probable availability of essential goods and services where you are going for your experience or during your anticipated emergency?
Be clear about the time factors, persons involved, and situations that you anticipate will occur in an emergency or an outdoor experience. Knowing this information is crucial to stocking the appropriate items in the proper quantities. Many of these items will be essential for bartering if supplies are exhausted and the emergency you are preparing for is long term. Proper provisioning is about safety, health, protection, comfort, and peace of mind – for not only you but also your family and friends. Don’t forget the special needs – medical, food or otherwise – of you or your family.
Do you have a list of essential supplies you believe will be necessary to have on hand during your estimated emergency?
Is it prioritized? Do you have a list of the essential categories your supplies fall under? What do you have on hand now?
During an emergency what facilities, stores, resources, supplies, and assistance is available in your area apart from family and friends?
This includes not only information and education, but also essentials such as food, water, shelter, energy, communication, and medical supplies. What utilities in your area are vulnerable to disruption or elimination? What will you do to compensate for the loss of electricity, water, gas, or phone service?
The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning
8 – Considering Others
Many conscientious preparedness planners realize that individuals, groups, and churches should provide for the most vulnerable and those in need, especially in a time of emergency. They feel it is the groups’, churches’ or an individual’s responsibility to take a leadership role in promoting contingency planning education and action for its members or others. There is ample historical precedent for this perspective.
As far as churches are concerned, some feel that much time, effort and money is spent on spiritual issues and teaching activities (which is, of course, primary and essential), missions, and new facilities, but not enough on basic physical essentials such as food and daily necessities. There is a desire to make sure that church members, or anyone seeking the help of the church, such as the elderly, widows, disabled, single parents and the poor, are secure with the essentials during times of adversity and disaster – especially when primary sources of supplies may not be available.
Family and neighbors often do not take responsibility to provide for themselves during emergencies. Considering others while one engages in the preparedness process is a very personal and vital factor to consider. Whether it is provisions, education or a desire to teach and motivate, all planners need to contemplate whether or not they will address the essential needs of others.
READ: Why Are So Many Christians Being Called to Prepare?
9 – Communication
What means of communication do you have available to you during an emergency and with whom do you need to communicate?
This includes both two-way communication with others, including family, friends, and associates, and one-way communication from radio stations, emergency broadcasts, or individuals via short wave. Do you have a cell phone? Will towers be functioning? Land lines? Internet? Hand held walkie-talkies? Satellite phone? Short wave radios? Citizens band radios? Emergency radios and/or ham radios with two-way communication capability? During a serious emergency accurate information and updates are essential for survival. What if an EMP (electro-magnetic-pulse) from a solar flare or nuclear device renders all unprotected electronics useless? How will this affect the equipment you are relying upon?
READ: The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning
10 – Networking
Are you dependent upon someone or something else to get you through and supply your needs during the emergency scenarios you presume will occur?
Are your neighbors or friends stocking up on enough supplies for you also? Do you honestly believe some level of government will be there to assist and resolve the situation? Do you have a community support network available? What skills and knowledge do you possess that you can contribute?
During a serious and prolonged emergency, it will be vital to have available to you and your family the support and expertise of others in your neighborhood and community. Everyone has a skill that they can share during challenging times. The sooner you discover those who are compassionate and sympathetic enough to network with others, the better it will be if an emergency occurs.
READ: The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning
By Denis Korn
My Be Encouraged post first appeared at the end of 2011 and I have received many encouraging comments about its value in these troubling and challenging times. I have been posting a message of encouragement every year at about this time with additions and further encouragements.
It is my observation after 44 years in the preparedness and outdoor recreation industry as a manufacturer and retailer, a researcher and commentator on contemporary cultural events, and with my college teaching experience, that 2019 will be a transformational year – a crossroad that will determine the course of our nation. This is not meant to be an article about the specifics of preparedness or outdoor adventure – it is here to be a brief rest from the apprehension of daily life and the anguish of the times. 2018 has been a year of significant challenges and 2019 will be even more daunting.
The first definition of encourage in the Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary: to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope – may you be encouraged to endure with sustaining faith and hope!
I felt a personal calling to write and share this prayer of encouragement as a gift to those needing some uplifting words during distressing events and the constant perpetration by media and government of crisis, fear and hysteria.
It is difficult to stay positive, feel secure and be joyful when the world around us appears to be degenerating and transforming, and so many people are delusional.
We all need encouragement to help us cope
Blessings to those who are encouraged by these words
God is our refuge and strength.
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling.
Psalm 46: 1-3
By Denis Korn
Important November 2018 update.
This post, Evacuate – Essential Guidelines Updated, is one of the most important posts I have written.
I am posting it again considering the devastating fires that have occurred here in Northern California last year and this year. This year’s fire, which occurred just a couple of weeks ago, was very close, about an hour and a half away, in Paradise, CA (the most devastating fire in California history). This year’s and last year’s fires impacted our community directly. These fires were a significant wake-up call and an essential lesson in being prepared for the unexpected, and the need for immediate action. The fires destroyed thousands of homes (almost 14,000 just in Paradise) and structures, and significantly impacted thousands of lives.
The fires here in our area and nearby counties started in the middle of the night or very early in the morning due to very hot, dry, and windy conditions. The fires grew extremely fast, were intense, and they occurred in residential neighborhoods. In many instances, the evacuation was immediate. In other situations only very little time was given.
What I learned from last year’s and this year’s fires and the recent Orville Dam evacuation that affected our area:
The timeliness of this information cannot be overstated! The uncertainty of the times requires appropriate preparation and answering the questions contained in this article. It is a valuable companion to another important post Essential Checklist for Emergency Preparedness & Outdoor Adventure Planning – Including Vehicle Preparedness – Latest Update.
I feel it is very important also to include in this article one of my Foundational Articles titled Is your entire family prepared for emergencies at all times? It appears at the end of this post.
You are highly encouraged to share this post and its vital information with family, friends, business associates, church and temple congregations, and other members of any organizations to which you belong. May this post help you in your serious preparedness planning. Celebrate Peace of Mind!
Here are the crucial questions to answer when assembling your emergency responce plans and emergency kit/grab-and-go/bug-out bag – which is essential if you must leave your home or business quickly.
To have a genuinely adequate emergency kit/grab-and-go/bug-out bag, the above questions must be answered. Your preparedness bag contents will vary depending on numerous factors such as time, the number of persons, locations involved, mobility, support available, season, comfort level desired, anticipated scenarios, and the degree of peace of mind you want. If specific provisions are not appropriate to your assessment of needs, I still highly encourage you to have available all the essential documents, wallets with money and credit cards, papers, ID, policies, contact information, and life-sustaining medications and special needs.
Here is a list of the basic essentials for every kit. Each category will have multiple options depending on how you answer the above crucial questions. Cheap, inadequate and poorly made provisions don’t belong in a quality kit. Prepare your kit as if you and your family’s life and comfort depended on it – because it does!
If time permits, take irreplaceable items such as heirlooms, heirloom jewelry, photographs, military/marriage/birth/deed records, computers, tablets, and personal contact information and documents not included in your grab-and-go device.
Water
This is an obvious necessity for everyone. Know what water sources are available to you during an emergency, or in the outdoors. Plan accordingly and don’t hold back preparing for this essential category.
Determine whether or not you want to purify water for viruses. Not all water filters are designed for this purpose – look for water purifiers that specifically state that they will kill viruses.
Food
Numerous options are available. This category must be accessed carefully, and the quality and quantity of foods chosen should be appropriate to the anticipated length of time of the emergency or outing, and severity of circumstances you anticipate might occur. For shorter term scenarios foods in most situations should be nutritious and ready-to-eat; however, you might want to consider some foods requiring only the addition of cold or hot water. If you do need hot water, you must plan for the appropriate means and equipment to heat your water. Options listed have a longer shelf life and are suitably packaged for kits or backpacks.
Medical
When your health and survival during a medical emergency is at stake, you don’t want to rely on cheap or inadequate medical supplies. This is an important category to thoughtfully evaluate. Don’t forget medications or products needed for those with special medical conditions. If your pre-assembled kit doesn’t include one, make sure you get a good book on medical emergencies.
Shelter/warmth
Protection from the elements and insects is essential, especially in a harsh climate.
Tools
Numerous unforeseen situations or just routine conditions occur during an emergency or during an outdoor adventure. Be prepared and secure with the proper quality tool.
Communication/Signaling
It is essential to keep informed during an emergency with friends, family, and appropriate governmental agencies and emergency organizations. When in an outdoor environment, unsettled weather considerations necessitate weather alert radios. Avoid a sense of isolation during serious emergencies. If you get lost or are separated from your group signaling can be crucial. Since electronic items are included in this category, you may want to consider a small solar power device.
Lighting
This is an essential category to address when anticipating any situation where you may be in darkness. Not only for a sense of security and comfort, but to be able to see clearly and act accordingly if emergencies occur in the dark.
Personal protection
For some, this may not be an essential primary category. Everyone must decide the extent to which they will or will not provide protection for themselves and their families from physical harm by others or wild animals.
This article provides a fundamental list of suggested items we believe are essential for emergency preparedness and outdoor recreation; especially if space, weight, and mobility are important. For an expanded list of suggestions read our article: Essential Checklist for Emergency Preparedness & Outdoor Adventure Planning Including Vehicle Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness Items for Automobiles – Trucks – Vans – RV’s
These items are especially necessary for long trips, family outings, new younger drivers, inclement weather, evacuation, remote area travel, and at night.
AS A FATHER OF 3 DAUGHTERS AND 8 GRANDCHILDREN, I HIGHLY ENCOURAGE FATHERS AND MOTHERS TO ENSURE YOUR CHILDREN ARE SECURE AND PREPARED – ESPECIALLY IN WINTER AND INCLEMENT WEATHER – WHEN THEY ARE DRIVING!
Additional critical items from the Essential Checklist to carry in your vehicle:
Recent events have brought us catastrophic circumstances that have had devastating and lasting effects on thousands of people around the world. I pray that you take this advice seriously. Recent conversations have also motivated me to consider this important article as a Foundational Article.
I am reminded of a presentation I made some years back to a large gathering of preparedness professionals. This convention consisted of folks who came from all over the country and of course this meant that they would be gone from their families for a few days. Bear in mind that at my presentation there were a couple of hundred people whose responsibilities included preparedness planning and education for very large companies, organizations, and governmental agencies.
At the beginning of my talk, I asked the group how many felt completely confident that in their absence their families were prepared to deal with unforeseen emergencies or disasters – especially significant ones. Only a few raised their hands! Since most of these participants were the head of their households, what does it tell you about fulfilling one’s responsibility to protect and keep the family secure in difficult times?
Fortunately, over the years, the professional emergency management community has become more dedicated to personally embodying what they are responsible for in government and business. What about the average household?
It appears that most heads of households have some notion that their presence is security enough for the family during an emergency. This is a dangerous assumption. The sensible attitude is to ensure that all family members – adults – the elderly – teenagers – and young children, know:
Instructions should be in writing, and the entire family should participate in drills and practices. Family members – immediate and extended – should know their part during an emergency under all scenarios and given any combination of family members physically present – or absent.
Between Learn To Prepare and numerous internet websites, there is an abundance of valuable information for the whole family. Study this information as if your life and your families’ life depended on it – in a significant emergency, it does!
So, I ask all of you reading this post: In your absence is your family adequately educated and prepared to properly respond and survive during a serious emergency? I encourage you to have all family members read the Foundational Articles on the right column of this blog.
By Denis Korn 
NOTE: The demand for the information given in this definitive essentials checklist has been significant – so I am posting it again with additional comments and items. There are listed both convenient and essential items required for proper preparedness & adventure. Only you know your unique situations and anticipated scenarios – prepare accordingly.
This is one of the 15 Foundational Articles which are available on the column to the right. As we enter the holiday season and the winter, it is extremely important to have essential provisions on hand. Review this list seriously and welcome to peace of mind!
Many of the items listed in this checklist are available on our product website PrepareDirect. We will be adding new items and categories continually so please visit us.
This exceptionally comprehensive essential checklist for emergency preparedness should be a crucial assist in your emergency, survival and outdoor adventure planning – study it carefully! It is one of the most comprehensive lists available – thankfully copied by many.
For most people planning for emergencies is similar to planning for a camping trip or any other outdoor adventure where the normal conveniences of home are not available. The biggest difference is determining whether to plan for being away from home or in your own residence – or perhaps both. The equipment to include in your emergency kit or camping supplies list will be very comparable. Differences and variations will generally depend upon the severity and length of time you anticipate for your emergency scenario. Long term emergencies and outdoor explorations will require, in addition to this list, more extensive planning and provisioning.
Important questions to answer as you do your planning:
I highly recommend you evaluate and answer the 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning.
Although this list is an authoritative and comprehensive compilation of crucial supplies for emergency preparedness and outdoor adventure, these suggestions focus on basic necessities, and are not intended to be an exhaustive and detailed list of all choices, as each person or group has their own special requirements and needs. While there are numerous options to choose from in each category, use this guideline of essentials to ensure you have evaluated all the possibilities given the scenarios and circumstances for which you are preparing and provisioning, whether for preparedness planning or outdoor adventuring.
Your comfort, enjoyment and life may depend upon it!
Be clear about the time factors, persons involved, and situations that you anticipate will occur in an emergency or an outdoor experience. Knowing this information is crucial to stocking the appropriate items in the appropriate quantities. Many of these items will be essential for bartering if supplies are exhausted and the emergency you are preparing for is long term.
Proper provisioning is about safety, health, protection, comfort, and peace of mind – for not only you, but also your family and friends.
Items with an asterisk * are recommended for a “grab-and-go bag” or “bug out bag.” This is an easily accessible bag you keep nearby to grab when you only have a moments notice to evacuate. Items with a double asterisk ** indicates items for your bag whose quantity will depend on the length of your anticipated emergency scenario. You may require more than one quick-grab-bag depending on your specific needs.
As a complement to this checklist, I highly recommend answering the questions in: The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning article.
Important and related posts:
Essential Emergency Grab-and-Go Kit Information & Advice
10 Foundational Elements of Preparedness Planning
Critical Questions and Essential Information About Bug-Out-Bags and Vehicle Preparedness
If you anticipate having to relocate, have your transportable supplies in one or two easily accessible carriers, especially if you must leave in a hurry.
An obvious necessity for everyone. Know what water sources are available to you during an emergency, or in the outdoors. Plan accordingly and don’t hold back preparing for this essential category. Don’t go cheap!
Numerous options are available. This category must be accessed carefully depending upon the length of time of the emergency or outing, and severity of circumstances you anticipate might occur. Remember, certain foods will require more water and fuel to prepare – is this appropriate to your anticipated situation? Would you store foods for an emergency that you would not normally want to eat? Foods should be shelf stable and easy to prepare. Consider nutrient dense foods not empty calorie foods. When considering whole grains, seeds, legumes and beans don’t forget sprouting.
NOTE: Many newer food companies are promoting their pouched foods to have a 25 year plus shelf life – beware! Many of these food companies market their foods as “survival” foods – they are just that – eaten to survive only – their quality, packaging and shelf stability is questionable. Would you store foods for an emergency that you would not normally want to eat?
If you must relocate and plan on cooking or heating water, consider lighter weight and efficient equipment.
Be prepared for any situation and the possible need to start a fire, especially if weather conditions are severe.
When your health and survival during a medical emergency is at stake, you don’t want to rely on cheap or inadequate medical supplies. This is an important category to thoughtfully evaluate. Don’t forget medications or products needed for those with special medical conditions.
Depending on individual circumstances and your location, it is vital to prevent any problems that might arise from unsanitary conditions. Take precautions to ensure a disease free environment. The length of an emergency and living/camping conditions require different approaches to personal hygiene.
For warmth, comfort, and protection from insects and the elements.
For protection from insects and the elements, warmth, sleeping, comfort, privacy.
10. Communication
It is essential to be kept informed during an emergency with friends, family, and appropriate governmental agencies and emergency organizations. When in an outdoor environment, unsettled weather considerations necessitate weather alert radios. Avoid a sense of isolation during serious emergencies.
11. Lighting
This is an essential category to address when anticipating any situation where you may be in darkness. Not only for a sense of security and comfort, but to be able to see clearly and act accordingly if emergencies happen in the dark.
12. Tools – Instruments – Accessories
Numerous unforeseen situations or just routine conditions occur during an emergency or during an outdoor adventure. Be prepared and secure with the proper quality tool.
13. Emergency Instructions – Guidance – Support – Back up – Personal Documents
Important and accurate information can not only be helpful it can be life saving. Researching reliable and trustworthy information sources is a vital component to preparedness and outdoor survival planning. Establishing family communication and reunion plans is also essential for security and peace of mind. Certain documents should always be available.
14. Power – Energy
A reliable power supply can be crucial in an emergency or for various outdoor recreational activities. Many valuable communication, radio, entertainment and lighting devices require power. Currently there are a number of dependable portable solar (large and small), storage, and hand operated units available to power your electronic devices.
15. Cash
It is impossible to know for certain what circumstances might exist during a serious emergency and for what duration normal financial activities will be disrupted. Access to electronic funds or use of credit cards may not be possible. Cash or barter may be the only means of paying for goods or services.
16. Personal Security
Each individual must decide the extent to which they will provide protection for themselves and their families from physical harm by others or wild animals. Don’t forget fire safety.
17. Special Needs
This category must not be overlooked if you, other family members, or friends have specials needs and require individual attention.
18. Transportation Support
An often overlooked category, specific transportation support must be assessed especially for longer duration emergencies or for outdoor activities where the transportation devices are critical. Evaluate these options, determine which ones you will utilize, determine what you will need to ensure safety, comfort, repair potential, and adequacy to handle the transportation of your provisions.
These items are especially important for long trips, family outings, new younger drivers, inclement weather, remote areas and at night.
Additional critical items from the above Essential Checklist to carry in your vehicle:
Reproduction of this important Checklist for other media is granted if Denis Korn and Learn To Prepare is appropriately credited
By Denis Korn
What’s your calling?
Discern carefully – then act!
Why Are So Many People of Diverse Communities Being Called to Prepare? While this was written 19 years ago to a Christian audience, it is as applicable today to any church, group, organization, web forum or family, as it was to Christians when I wrote it right before Y2K.
Most scenarios are the same, the issues surrounding preparedness are the same and the events and potential events are real and impending. I foresaw then that it wasn’t just about Y2K, but any unforeseen occurrence – and I knew then that Y2K was just a wake up call for more serious potential events yet to come years into the future – that future is with us now.
What follows is the original article with some updating and additional comments.
I have been aware of the desire of large numbers of born-again Christians to be spiritually and physically prepared for emergency situations, especially catastrophic ones, for 43 years now – and as contemporary events wax and wane in importance, the spiritual significance grows in relevancy to those with a sensitivity and a discerning spirit. Was there some kind of “millennium madness,” as some would suggest, or is something else happening?
It is my observation that basically 4 things are occurring:
First, many Christians realize that individual churches should provide for the most vulnerable and those in need, especially in a time of emergency. They feel it is the churches’ responsibility to take a leadership role in promoting contingency planning education and action for its members. There is ample historical precedent for this perspective.
They feel that much time, effort and money is spent on spiritual issues and teaching activities (which is of course primary and essential), missions, and new facilities, but not enough on basic physical essentials such as food and daily necessities. There is a desire to make sure that church members, or anyone seeking the help of the church, such as the elderly, widows, disabled, single parents and the poor, are secure with the essentials during times of adversity and disaster – especially when primary sources of supplies may not be available.
Second, there is an overwhelming sense of impending trials and tribulations – whether it is the last days, Godly rebuke or some intense period of transition or wake up call to The Church and the world.
Potential problems can be triggered by a number of possible events: Y2K, war – and the rumors of war, scientific experimentation gone wrong, terrorism, earthquakes and other natural disasters, famine, pestilence, economic and technical instability, political upheaval, martial law, The New World Order – and the list goes on. [This short list was written in 1999 – except for the uncertainties of Y2K it appears the same scenarios are still with us, and with even more intensity and probability.] Any one event, let alone multiple events all at once can cause a dramatic and profound change in our society and our lifestyle.
It is self-evident that most of our population today in America is not prepared for nor accustomed to serious hardships. We have become comfortable and dependent rather than self-reliant and responsible. The availability of goods and services are dependant on so many interrelated factors, that a breakdown in just one area can have a significant impact on our daily life and the ability to provide for those depending upon us.
The Word instructs Christians to be wise, prudent and responsible and provide for their families. While spiritual trust in God is first and foremost, many are realizing the need for physical preparation is also essential in preparedness planning. There is a spiritual awakening and discernment of the realities and vulnerability of the times in which we live. Many are interpreting Biblical teaching as a call to action.
A classic example is the Old Testament account of Joseph [Gen 41: 34-36, 48-49] who stored provisions in the abundant times for the time of famine and great need. When you continue reading in Genesis 47: 13-26 what occurred during the famine to the citizens of that time and the consequences of relying entirely upon the government is sobering – although they did not starve – you will be shaken by the implications of the loss of freedoms and the total dependency upon the government that are possible today. Are we so naïve or arrogant as to believe that it could not happen in our country in our time?
Third, Christians feel a need to create community and associate with like-minded Christians who share a common perspective on the times and what actions to take. I am both amazed and dismayed at the polarization that is occurring in the church over the issue of Y2K and preparedness in general. [During Y2K this was also the case among many secular groups. With today’s current events and concerns, the same polarization is occurring in and out of The Church.]
Within churches and within families, people are branding those who are planning for emergencies – especially Y2K – as “wackos,” “nuts,” “extremists,” “suckers,” “stupid,” and those who supply emergency provisions as “opportunists,” “money hungry,” and “snake oil salesman.” The often harsh judgment on those preparing and supplying makes me wonder what is really going on here, and what are the greater implications of the whole matter. What can be wrong with rational Christians – or anyone for that matter – wanting to be prepared for any number of potential emergency scenarios?
Many Christians feel a “coming together and fellowship” with others who have prayed earnestly, studied the Bible, felt called and have concluded that being prepared is the action to take. There is mutual support, a deepening bond and a sense of security and peace of mind. There is the opportunity to contribute in the time of need, and the acknowledgment from one’s brothers and sisters that what you are doing is okay…and even proper.
Fourth, many Christians have informed themselves and evaluated the facts, read books, gone to conferences, watched videos, talked to friends, gone to church presentations, asked lots of questions, attended community meetings, been on the internet and concluded that Y2K and other potential problems have a real possibility of occurring. It can be as simple and logical as assessing the potential risks and taking appropriate action, compatible with one’s personal situation.
We can hope there are no problems or consequences and carry on, or we can study the vast amount of knowledgeable information from true experts and form educated opinions. We can weigh the reliability of news sources and use our common sense and rational judgment to come to reasonable conclusions. [While we are fortunate that nothing serious developed from Y2K and that the technical issues were addressed and resolved, it was very clear to many experts at the beginning of the fixing process that there was a real potential for a serious impact on the very interdependent network of delivering vital goods and services.]
This article was not written to convince anyone to run out and start planning. It was written to share and comment on what I have observed and feel is happening as it relates to preparing Christians. It remains, however, that a key question must be asked: What chance are you willing to take that any emergency or disaster will be so insignificant in your life that no action is required on your part?
I personally encourage everyone to pray, learn what the Word has to say to you personally about preparedness planning, and conscientiously study the events of the day, the times and the facts relating to Y2K and other potential emergency scenarios. Consider not only January 1, 2000 but the months and years to come!
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Relevant Scripture:
These Scriptures very slightly among the different translations, however, the core meaning is relevant to being prepared, being watchful, being responsible, sharing, service and trusting in the Lord.
By Denis Korn
ALIVENESS is a noun – the state of being ALIVE. Here are 2 of the definitions of alive from the Encarta Dictionary, on-line:
a.live (adjective)
4. full of life
Full of energy and vigor, and with a zest for and interest in life.
5. animated
Active or animated, especially full of busy activity or a sense of excitement.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Those of you who have read other posts I have written know that I value attitude as an essential factor in emergency preparedness and outdoor adventure.
I read an excerpt from a book recently that has had me reflecting on my attitude and state of mind as I go about my daily routine. I want to take this opportunity to share some thoughts and insights on the value of ALIVENESS.
I’ll begin by sharing two quotes. The first from the excerpt I read, and the second from President Harry Truman – put on the side of a design-it-yourself mug given to me by my daughter:
Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
— From a spiritual mentor of Gil Bailie as quoted in Wild at Heart by John Eldredge
I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and advise them to do it.
— Harry S. Truman
The more I study and observe the current political, social, emotional and moral state of our society the more I realize how mentally and spiritually numb most people are today. People are out of balance and out of touch with the realities that are all around them. They are incapacitated by fear, unhappiness, confusion, dependency, indoctrination, ignorance, and the list goes on and on. Folks hope for change and security – without the capability for felling ALIVE and DYNAMIC.
While I feel blessed to have finally grasped the true value of ALIVENESS, I am filled with compassion and sorrow for those who have not realized its worth. The less than honorable agendas and schemes of those who exert the most powerful influences on our society today have robbed so many of the ability and yearning to feel and act ALIVE.
The difficulties of the present have enabled many people to seriously consider and critically assess their response to the uncertainty and anxiety of these times in which we all find ourselves. Use this opportunity wisely.
Evaluate – embrace – and embody the actions and attitudes that awaken in us the exhilaration of ALIVENESS. Quietly reflect on what it is that makes you feel truly ALIVE. We all have had times in which we have felt joy, passion, excitement inspiration and fulfillment. What were you doing when you felt these emotions? Strive to do it again and again! It is never too late to grow from just existing, reacting and filling space, to waking up and LIVING.
Because what the world needs are people who have come ALIVE!!
February 2011: A new quote –
We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.
— Thornton Wilder
By Denis Korn
in an emergency situation?
We are experiencing a serious and potentially devastating fire season. I pray that you take this advice seriously. Recent conversations have also motivated me to consider this important article as a foundational article.
I am reminded of a presentation I made some years back to a large gathering of preparedness professionals. This convention consisted of folks who came from all over the country and of course this meant that they would be gone from their families for a few days. Bear in mind that at my presentation there were a couple of hundred people whose responsibilities included preparedness planning and education for very large companies, organizations, and governmental agencies.
At the beginning of my talk, I asked the group how many felt completely confident that in their absence their families were prepared to deal with unforeseen emergencies or disasters – especially significant ones. Only a few raised their hands! Since most of these participants were the head of their households, what does it tell you about fulfilling one’s responsibility to protect and keep the family secure in difficult times?
Fortunately, over the years, the professional emergency management community has become more dedicated to personally embodying what they are responsible for in government and business. What about the average household? Is your family prepared for emergencies in all seasons of the year?
It appears that most heads of households have the notion that their presence is security enough for the family during an emergency. This is a dangerous assumption. The sensible attitude is to ensure that all family members – adults – the elderly – teenagers – and young children, know:
Instructions should be in writing and the entire family should participate in drills and practices. Family members – immediate and extended – should know their part during an emergency under all scenarios and given any combination of family members physically present – or absent.
Between Learn To Prepare and numerous internet websites, there is an abundance of valuable information for the whole family. Study this information as if your life and your families’ life depended on it – in a significant emergency, it does!
So I ask all of you reading this post: In your absence is you family adequately educated and prepared to properly respond and survive during a serious emergency situation? I encourage you to have all family members read the Foundational Articles on the right column of this blog.
By Denis Korn
Important November 2018 update.
This post, Evacuate Now – Essential Guidelines, is one of the most important posts I have written.
I am posting it again in light of the devastating fires that have occurred here in Northern California last year and this year. This year’s fire, which occurred just a couple of weeks ago, was very close, about an hour and a half away, in Paradise CA (the most devastating fire in California history). This year’s and last year’s fires impacted our community directly. These fires were a significant wake-up call and essential lesson in being prepared for the unexpected, and the need for immediate action. The fires destroyed thousands of homes (almost 14,000 just in Paradise) and structures, and significantly impacted thousands of lives.
The fires here in our area and in nearby counties started in the middle of the night or very early in the morning due to very hot, dry, and windy conditions. The fires grew extremely fast, were intense, and they occurred in residential neighborhoods. In many instances, evacuation was immediate. In other situations only very little time was given.
What I learned from last year’s and this year’s fires and the recent Orville Dam evacuation that affected our area:
The timeliness of this information cannot be overstated! The uncertainty of the times requires appropriate preparation and answering the questions contained in this article. It is a valuable companion to another important post Essential Checklist for Emergency Preparedness & Outdoor Adventure Planning – Including Vehicle Preparedness – Latest Update.
I feel it is very important also to include in this article one of my Foundational Articles titled Is your entire family prepared for emergencies at all times? It appears at the end of this post.
You are highly encouraged to share this post and its vital information with family, friends, business associates, church and temple congregations, and other members of any organizations to which you belong. May this post help you in your serious preparedness planning. Celebrate Peace of Mind!
Here are the crucial questions to answer when assembling your emergency kit/grab-and-go/bug-out bag – which is essential if you must leave your home or business quickly.
To have a genuinely adequate emergency kit/grab-and-go/bug-out bag the above questions must be answered. Your preparedness bag contents will vary depending on numerous factors such as time, the number of persons, locations involved, mobility, support available, season, comfort level desired, anticipated scenarios, and the degree of peace of mind you want. If specific provisions are not appropriate to your assessment of needs, I still highly encourage you to have available all the essential documents, wallets with money and credit cards, papers, ID, policies, contact information, and life sustaining medications and special needs.
Here is a list of the basic essentials for every kit. Each category will have multiple options depending on how you answer the above crucial questions. Cheap, inadequate and poorly made provisions don’t belong in a quality kit. Prepare your kit as if you and your family’s life and comfort depended on it – because it does!
If time permits, take irreplaceable items such as heirlooms, heirloom jewelry, photographs, military/marriage/birth/deed records, computers, tablets, and personal contact information and documents not included in your grab-and-go device.
Water
This is an obvious necessity for everyone. Know what water sources are available to you during an emergency, or in the outdoors. Plan accordingly and don’t hold back preparing for this essential category.
Determine whether or not you want to purify water for viruses. Not all water filters are designed for this purpose – look for water purifiers that specifically state that they will kill viruses.
Food
Numerous options are available. This category must be accessed carefully, and the quality and quantity of foods chosen should be appropriate to the anticipated length of time of the emergency or outing, and severity of circumstances you anticipate might occur. For shorter term scenarios foods in most situations should be nutritious and ready-to-eat; however, you might want to consider some foods requiring only the addition of cold or hot water. If you do need hot water, you must plan for the appropriate means and equipment to heat your water. Options listed have a longer shelf life and are suitably packaged for kits or backpacks.
Medical
When your health and survival during a medical emergency is at stake, you don’t want to rely on cheap or inadequate medical supplies. This is an important category to thoughtfully evaluate. Don’t forget medications or products needed for those with special medical conditions. If your pre-assembled kit doesn’t include one, make sure you get a good book on medical emergencies.
Shelter/warmth
Protection from the elements and insects is essential, especially in a harsh climate.
Tools
Numerous unforeseen situations or just routine conditions occur during an emergency or during an outdoor adventure. Be prepared and secure with the proper quality tool.
Communication/Signaling
It is essential to keep informed during an emergency with friends, family, and appropriate governmental agencies and emergency organizations. When in an outdoor environment, unsettled weather considerations necessitate weather alert radios. Avoid a sense of isolation during serious emergencies. If you get lost or are separated from your group signaling can be crucial. Since electronic items are included in this category, you may want to consider a small solar power device.
Lighting
This is an essential category to address when anticipating any situation where you may be in darkness. Not only for a sense of security and comfort, but to be able to see clearly and act accordingly if emergencies occur in the dark.
Personal protection
For some, this may not be an essential primary category. Each individual must decide the extent to which they will or will not provide protection for themselves and their families from physical harm by others or wild animals.
This article provides a fundamental list of suggested items we believe are essential for emergency preparedness and outdoor recreation; especially if space, weight, and mobility are important. For an expanded list of suggestions read our article: Essential Checklist for Emergency Preparedness & Outdoor Adventure Planning Including Vehicle Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness Items for Automobiles – Trucks – Vans – RV’s
These items are especially necessary for long trips, family outings, new younger drivers, inclement weather, evacuation, remote area travel, and at night.
AS A FATHER OF 3 DAUGHTERS AND 8 GRANDCHILDREN, I HIGHLY ENCOURAGE FATHERS AND MOTHERS TO ENSURE YOUR CHILDREN ARE SECURE AND PREPARED – ESPECIALLY IN WINTER AND INCLEMENT WEATHER – WHEN THEY ARE DRIVING!
Additional critical items from the Essential Checklist to carry in your vehicle:
Recent events have brought us catastrophic circumstances that have had devastating and lasting effects on thousands of people around the world. I pray that you take this advice seriously. Recent conversations have also motivated me to consider this important article as a Foundational Article.
I am reminded of a presentation I made some years back to a large gathering of preparedness professionals. This convention consisted of folks who came from all over the country and of course this meant that they would be gone from their families for a few days. Bear in mind that at my presentation there were a couple of hundred people whose responsibilities included preparedness planning and education for very large companies, organizations, and governmental agencies.
At the beginning of my talk, I asked the group how many felt completely confident that in their absence their families were prepared to deal with unforeseen emergencies or disasters – especially significant ones. Only a few raised their hands! Since most of these participants were the head of their households, what does it tell you about fulfilling one’s responsibility to protect and keep the family secure in difficult times?
Fortunately, over the years, the professional emergency management community has become more dedicated to personally embodying what they are responsible for in government and business. What about the average household?
It appears that most heads of households have some notion that their presence is security enough for the family during an emergency. This is a dangerous assumption. The sensible attitude is to ensure that all family members – adults – the elderly – teenagers – and young children, know:
Instructions should be in writing, and the entire family should participate in drills and practices. Family members – immediate and extended – should know their part during an emergency under all scenarios and given any combination of family members physically present – or absent.
Between Learn To Prepare and numerous internet websites, there is an abundance of valuable information for the whole family. Study this information as if your life and your families’ life depended on it – in a significant emergency, it does!
So I ask all of you reading this post: In your absence is your family adequately educated and prepared to properly respond and survive during a serious emergency situation? I encourage you to have all family members read the Foundational Articles on the right column of this blog.
By Denis Korn
It is time once again to evaluate one of the Foundational Articles. I have presented here a simple and concise guide to the preparedness process. You are encouraged to treat this information seriously! You are also invited to read other articles and posts that go into detail regarding various facets of preparedness.
If you are a newcomer to preparedness planning or have been engaged for some time, the information and suggestions contained in this article will certainly help you begin or add to your experience of confidence and peace of mind and assist you with practical steps you can take.
The first step in the preparedness planning process is the acknowledgment that you have made a wise and sound decision and have chosen to take responsibility for you and your family, and to be prepared in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Be encouraged to continue this process with diligence, motivation, and discernment.
It is my intention in this article to present a guideline that can be followed which will lead you on an important journey to being prepared in the event of any number of potentially unexpected events. This process is basically undertaken in three phases – each one of which will take as much time as you wish to devote, and the degree of urgency you are experiencing.
The initial assessment
This consists of 6 basic questions that you are encouraged to answer that will lead you along the matrix to your destination:
Elaborating on these 6 questions
Attitude – Are you positive, fearful, confused? A proper attitude during the preparedness planning process is essential and it is made more effective by exercising competent critical thinking and discernment skills. Reacting from fear or confusion can be an obstacle to efficient planning.
Scenarios – At the end of this article is a list of potential scenarios and circumstances that will help you answer this question. The events range from mild to catastrophic and fall generally into 3 categories: acts of God that tend to be local or regional; man-made that tend to be national; and momentous earth changes that tend to be national or worldwide.
Time – Your time frames can be as little as 3 days, which provide only a brief period of inconvenience, or as much as 1 year or more (I know of groups preparing for 7 years), that require a significant change of attitude and lifestyle. Also, at the end of this article, is a listing of various time frames and comments.
Who – Suggestions include, an individual, family, friends, neighborhood, organization, company, club, or church or temple.
Where – How you answer the “Who” question will affect the answer to this question. In addition, consider whether a vacation/retreat location is applicable and whether there are multiple potential locations to take into account. Also, if you need to be mobile, what transportation options are available or required?
Seriousness – This question requires your honesty not just wishful thinking. Your level of commitment is important to the planning process, especially when it comes down to a financial commitment. Also, be honest about what you really know about emergency preparedness planning. Don’t be afraid to do serious research and seek true expect opinion and perspective. Initial or additional knowledge is extremely important – and it might save your health or life.
After you finish this initial assessment, I strongly suggest that you refer to and continue to answer the more detailed questions in the article titled The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning. This will move you into the second phase of the planning process, and assist you in evaluation and research. The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning is an expansion of the 6 initial questions, and offers more focused and detailed questions to help guide you along.
Another important article, with specific tips and vital information on food and water, and with some similar questions to other articles, is The Essential Emergency Planning Guide for Food and Water. Here is an excerpt from that article from the Where to Start section.
As you reflect upon and answer the questions in phase 1 and 2, you may choose to wait until you feel confident about the next phase – action – or you may begin (or perhaps you have already began) to gather your supplies.
Summary of Action Steps
Additional tips to consider in the preparedness planning process
Many folks are reluctant to plan ahead, or they assume that the government or others will take care of them, or they are just too busy, or they just don’t think it is necessary. As an option to doing nothing or to enhance some other level of preparedness planning you have chosen, consider the following:
As you reflect on the scenarios that you presume might occur, think about the concept of a “triggering event.” Ask yourself, what are the triggering events that will motivate me to immediate action? What triggering event will launch the imminent arrival of the scenario I have presumed might occur? If you have created a list of triggering events, you will be on the lookout for possible immediate action. While it is always desirable to plan ahead and have provisions in place, it is better to react at the last minute than not at all. Obviously, some scenarios may offer some prior indications, such as hurricanes, storms, or economic/political issues; while others can occur without warning (see the list of scenarios). You are responsible – you must choose to act or not.
After you have evaluated the questions and points in this article, a helpful point of view may be the idea of an “extended pantry program,” or what might be considered as a building and expansion of your normal food usage and supplies. Start with a program that is compatible with your needs, assumptions, circumstances, and finances. You may want to start small and keep building.
Scenarios
Time Frames
3 Days to 2 Weeks
Minor to moderate inconvenience and disruption of the daily routine. Basic supplies in the first 3 days would be valuable for comfort but not essential. An adequate amount of basic supplies after 3 days are important.
3 Weeks to 2 Months
The inconvenience is very noticeable and the routine disruption can be significant. Supplies required may or may not be on hand and stockpiling some supplies will be very important.
3 Months to 6 Months
Preparedness planning is very important and a serious disruption to the daily routine is inevitable. Mobility and location to wait out the emergency is important in your planning. Proper supplies will be critical. Medical and other special needs must be planned for in advance.
6 Months to 1 Year
Unless you are very prepared and are committed to self-reliance, in this time frame your lifestyle will definitely be impacted. Serious attention to your preparedness planning is required. The questions covered in the foundational articles must be answered and a realistic plan created. Action and provisions are essential. You will be dealing with serious issues during this time period, and you must be prepared.
1 Year or More
Scenarios actualized in this time frame are the most serious and catastrophic and will require a serious commitment to lifestyle changes. You will be dealing with national and worldwide calamity. The extent of the impact on everyone’s life cannot be over emphasized. Significant and detailed planning is required, and even with this an emergency situation of this duration will be wrought with uncertainty. This will be a time for community togetherness, sharing, and mutual support. Skills not normally possessed by folks will be required. Gardening and other self-reliant skills will be essential. Books, tools, and other valuable resources will be vital.
By Denis Korn
This is a post on fear and its influence on emergency preparedness planning, actions and being self-reliant. The purpose of this post is not to give you some magic formula on how to live without fear. I simply wish to point out some insights for your 
reflection. It is my belief that understanding the affect of fear on one’s attitude and actions before – during – and after a disaster or catastrophe is essential to right action, peace of mind and survival.
Fear is natural and instinctive – it has a purpose for our life. The issue at hand is: Can we control it and use it to our advantage? Can it so overwhelm us as to be an obstacle to proper action? Can we understand its influence on our behavior? Can we discern when it is appropriate or detrimental?
Fear can be valuable tool and assist the planning process – or it can adversely affect the decision making and evaluation process causing one to act and think ineffectively and inappropriately – it can also prevent us from acting at all.
I have recently read articles that deal with the uncertainty and anxiety of the times, and specifically address this last point. Many people are so afraid of the truth or reality of a situation and what responsible action or attitude would be required of them, that being in denial is preferred to being enlightened.
Definitions
While most of us have a pretty good idea of what fear is, here are some definitions and synonyms relating to this post for reference:
–noun
1. A distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid.
2. A specific instance of or propensity for such a feeling
3. Concern or anxiety; solicitude
4. That which causes a feeling of being afraid; that of which a person is afraid
—Synonyms
1. Apprehension, consternation, dismay, terror, fright, panic, horror, trepidation. Fear, alarm, dread all imply a painful emotion experienced when one is confronted by threatening danger or evil. Alarm implies an agitation of the feelings caused by awakening to imminent danger; it names a feeling of fright or panic: He started up in alarm. Fear and dread usually refer more to a condition or state than to an event. Fear is often applied to an attitude toward something, which, when experienced, will cause the sensation of fright: fear of falling. Dread suggests anticipation of something, usually a particular event, which, when experienced, will be disagreeable rather than frightening: She lives in dread of losing her money. The same is often true of fear, when used in a negative statement: She has no fear she’ll lose her money.
Attitude
For those of you who have read other posts and articles I have written, you know that I consider one’s attitude as an essential factor in both the preparedness planning process and during the emergency or disaster that could possibly occur. I highly recommend you read my post on attitude and that you be inspired and educated by the insights and experiences of Viktor Frankl in his book, “Man’s Search for Meaning” that I mention in that article.
I realize how difficult it can be to address and examine one’s fears – especially in light of the suspicions, apprehension, insecurity, and dread so prevalent today. We deal not only with the anxiety concerning real and potential negative events and the economy, but also with a media obsessed and consumed with the need to promote fear at every opportunity – and when there isn’t a problem, their agenda requires that they create one for you. Yet as distressing and challenging as it may be, introspection and reflection on your thoughts and feelings can provide an opportunity to overcome the crippling effects of inaction caused by irrational fear.
Honestly confronting your fear in non-judgmental reflection and without allowing it to overwhelm and disable you is the first step to right action, peace of mind and survival. This takes time and commitment. Surround yourself with loving and supportive people.
Questions to consider:
What are your specific fears?
What are your worst fears?
Why?
What would happen if the circumstances you fear should occur?
Why do you fear that outcome?
Is there anything valuable to learn if that outcome happens?
(Can you make lemonade from lemons?)
Is there another emotion that can be substituted for fear?
What are the positive implications should your fears come to pass?
What do you fear losing?
What is your attachment to the material issues surrounding your fears?
Do you have friends and family available to help you examine your fears?
Can you acknowledge that you are fearful and still move forward?
Can you transform a fearful thought into a positive thought?
Can you focus on constructive thoughts and not dwell on fearful or negative thoughts?
Do you want to control your attitude?
What is it about a fearful or negative attitude that makes you feel in control or secure?
Can you see in yourself the inappropriate fear that takes over because of conditioning and unconscious patterns?
Have you considered using affirmations and positive thinking to help combat fear?
How do you reconcile the fear that is felt when discerning the issues surrounding us all – the lack of leadership, the death of common sense, selfishness, corporate greed, hatred, immorality, deceit, utter stupidity – and a media, educational system and entertainment industry obsessed with negativity, blame, self-righteousness and propaganda — with the importance of a positive and life-sustaining attitude that supports peace of mind, mental health and security for ourselves, family and community?
Fear and preparedness
In the 43 years that I have been involved with educating and supplying folks with preparedness information and products, I have been acutely aware of the methodologies used by those in this field. Promote an attitude of fear or promote an attitude of empowerment. Some think fear will empower – and with some people it might work. I look at it differently.
The events that occur during a disaster or catastrophe are indeed overwhelming and devastating, and require a great deal of cooperation and discipline and maintaining focus and purpose. I will say again – being motivated and guided by fear can work to your disadvantage.
In my opinion, an attitude of fear while preparing for and during trying times distorts the more important issues at hand and can negatively impact decision making, relationships and action.
Your thoughts will determine your perceptions, emotions and actions. You are encouraged to make decisions regarding what products to buy, what actions to take, who to believe, who to turn to and what to communicate – not from a reaction to fear – but from a place of critical thinking, conscientious evaluation and discerning judgment. Think before you mindlessly react.
By Denis Korn
Peace of Mind through honestly answering the relevant questions!
As I continue to evaluate the websites of many current providers of shelf stable emergency foods, I am once again motivated to stimulate the due diligence and research I feel that is necessary for my readers so they may be adequately prepared. I have updated and combined these food reserve questions from two previous posts regarding this issue, and I continue to be angered and saddened at the ignorance and deception that is still rampant in the preparedness industry.
In the last few years many hundreds of websites, blogs, webinars and food companies have appeared on the scene, and while many are legitimate and sincere, there are too many instant experts. So many of these folks are simply badly informed and just continue to pass along misinformation and are too lazy to due serious research, or they simply don’t care what information they put out as long is it sells their products.
I have written a number of articles dealing with trust, honesty, reflections, guidelines, questions to ask and recommendations concerning the purchasing of food reserve products. While the food you rely upon in an emergency is vital and life sustaining, unfortunately few preppers and planers do the valuable research they should for this essential category of provisions. This post is written to help educate and inform the serious preparedness planner.
This post focuses on food, and as I have indicated in other articles, a dilemma arises – Who can you trust? How accurate and truthful is information and advice regarding foods for emergency preparedness? The purpose of this post is to encourage you to ask and answer relevant questions, use common sense and to question the reliability and advice of what you hear and read about foods for preparedness.
What stimulated me to revisit this subject was a blog I recently read that gave a recommended list of foods they thought was needed to be prepared for a long term emergency – it was for a one year period. This information was a rehash of outdated recommendations and had little relevancy to the realities of food preparation, dietary needs and food preferences in 2018. This is not the 1800’s. Do you need 400 pounds of wheat – 150 pounds of beans – many pounds of milk powder, sugar, flour, etc. – per person? Are you going to spend much of your one year baking and boiling? Do you have the resources to prepare these core ingredients – water, fuel and time? Bulk commodities can be valuable in certain food reserve planning, however over reliance on these foods can be detrimental.
I have always been an advocate of a diversity of foods for emergencies because of the numerous set of circumstances that can arise. We just don’t know with certainty what the scenario will be, or the duration and resources available during an emergency. Finances play an important part in our planning and the cheapest is often not the best nor the appropriate choice. Determining the foods to store requires serious evaluation and critical and informed thinking – do not be misled by slick advertising, instant experts, endorsements by celebrities and talk show hosts, exaggerated shelf life and taste claims, inadequate serving sizes and foods that once you have read the ingredient declaration you would normally never eat.
While there are many legitimate and quality emergency food companies and true experts, many others are content to profit from foods that – to put it frankly – are truly “survival foods” – foods that might prevent starvation, but are mediocre, have an inadequate caloric value, filed with questionable ingredients, unfamiliar, rely on sugar and other fillers, and might actually cause nutritional problems if consumed for long periods of time.
The first part of this article deals with questions for suppliers, the second part lists food reserve questions that are of value to your personal planning.
For over 40 years now I have personally witnessed, heard and read many conflicting, misleading and outright deceptive claims and information regarding foods for long term storage, and while many food reserve companies are honest and reliable, many are intentionally or unintentionally ignorant and deceitful.
You are highly encouraged to take the following questions seriously and require that the food reserve companies you buy from know what they are doing, and they need to answer these questions honestly and to the best of their ability. If they can’t – then buyer beware! In my opinion – there is something immoral, appalling and disgraceful about companies who take advantage of people who may not be adequately informed and are vulnerable to misleading promotion. Unfortunately many people are more motivated by fear and mindlessly react, then carefully evaluate the facts and make informed decisions.
Spending thousands of dollars on deceptive advertising, hyperbole and exaggeration, being all over the internet with ads, getting high profile talk show hosts and websites to hawk your foods, creating shelf life figures out of thin air, telling folks how nutritious the foods are when they are filled with questionable ingredients, packaging foods in pouches and in a manner that does not assure a long shelf life, and tricking people into thinking they are getting an adequate quantity of foods during an emergency by creating arbitrary “servings” – does not guarantee you are buying value, quality or an adequate supply of vital foods! The high cost of advertising, endorsements and commissions has to come from somewhere, and all too often it comes from the value of the food products themselves while compromising quality and quantity.
As I am sure you can tell, I am very disappointed and concerned with the state of the “truth in advertising” regarding such an important facet of the preparedness planning process. The food you eat is life sustaining – and I believe preparedness food companies have an obligation to be honest and provide quality, nutritious foods.
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1. If the company promotes their food reserve assortments by number of servings, you need more information to determine what you are really buying and whether the quantities are adequate.
A common marketing tactic used by many food companies today is to promote a given number of servings in an assortment, and sometimes to even state that an assortment is good for a given period of time with a given number of servings. In the preparedness market place today, where people may have to depend on daily food rations for their nourishment, only knowing the number of servings in an assortment is close to meaningless and the information insignificant . Why? Because a “serving” quantity and quality can be anything the company wants it to be. You need more information.
2. What are the calories in each serving – the ingredient source of those calories (white sugar, non-nutritive calories or quality calories) – and what method, or source of information, was used to determine the calories in their products?
The standard for comparing one reserve food product with another has traditionally been to compare the number of calories of similar products or meals. This is done by comparing the calories by either: knowing the stated calories and the weight in a given serving of a product; or the number of calories of a food product in a comparable sized pouch or container. This enables comparisons of similar items from different companies – comparing apples with apples. Even the government on their mandated nutritional information requires the calories be listed – and the source of those calories.
3. How many calories does the company recommend one should consume per day, and how many of their servings will it take to achieve this number?
Now you can do the math and compare the real cost and value of one companies products to another. What is the true cost per quality calorie? What is the cost for supplying the proper number of calories for the time period in your emergency scenario? Don’t forget it is the quality of the calories that is critical.
Here is the important issue: The RDA (recommended daily allowance) for the average adult person is 2,000 calories a day (reputable companies generally allow 1,800 to 2,200 calories a day in formulating their assortments). There are companies who promote a 500 to 1000 calorie per day allowance!
4. If a company uses names for their meals that sound like they contain real meat or are similar sounding to meat recipes – is it real meat, soy or gluten?
This is a common deception among many companies who either do not have the legal authority to pack real meat products because they do not have USDA inspected facilities, or they try to make their products as cheaply as possible.
5. When a company claims a shelf life of between 20 and 30 years, how was this determined?
I know of only three USDA inspected companies (disclaimer – one of those companies, AlpineAire Foods, is a company I founded in 1979) who have been in business longer than 30 years with a diverse selection of blended meals and individual items for long term food reserve products who can verify shelf life, use the proper packaging technologies and have their own testing facilities.
6. What experience does the companies customers have eating their foods exclusively for extended periods of time?
If a company is selling you foods that you may have to rely upon for weeks, months or possibly years, how did they determine that their foods have the necessary nutritional value to sustain a person for an extended length of time? This includes children and adults.
7. How does the foods taste and are they formulated to digest properly if consumed for a lengthy period of time? What about ingredient quality?
Many of today’s preparedness food companies are primarily marketing companies that don’t emphasize quality and nutrition. Their foods must be made cheaply to support the margins required for their extensive marketing budget, commissions and dealer costs. Study the ingredient declarations – often very difficult to find if not unavailable on many websites – for artificial flavor enhancers, preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, fillers and white sugar. Unfortunately, many deceptive companies and stating their meals are “freeze-dried”, however upon reading the ingredients declaration, there are none. Are there any reliable independent testimonials about the foods you are considering for a preparedness investment? How long has the company been in the food reserve business? As happened after Y2K, how likely is the company to go out of business if there is a dip in demand?
NOTE: MRE’S (meals-ready-to-eat – military rations) were formulated by the military for combat soldiers to be eaten for no longer than one month at a time. They are high fat and high sodium and some people could have digestion issues if eaten over too long a period.
8. What about preparation?
Those of us in the camping/backpacking industry used the expression “just add water” to indicate that to reconstitute your pouched meal just add hot water, let sit and in 10-15 minutes your meal is ready – no cooking required. Many of the current pouch food companies use the same expression “just add water,” however what is really means is add water and boil/simmer for 15 to 30 minutes.
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Here are some important questions to answer when considering what foods to store for emergencies or serious disasters:
By Denis Korn
Since we live in a season of unprecedented deceit, corruption and confusion, and we cry out and pray for serious help in discerning the times, I am once again posting my article on Plato’s Allegory of the Cave. It applies not only to recognizing emergency preparedness myths and facts, but to understanding the madness that so permeates our society today.
THE MODERN DAY CAVE!
WE ARE A NATION OF CAVE DWELLERS!
As I assess the current state of our society, which is overflowing with delusion, deception and insanity, and as I read and hear so much material related to emergency/disaster/apocalyptic preparedness that is also filled with chaos and confusion, I am constantly reminded of a segment of the Critical Thinking class I taught at our local college. Many of you at some point in your education have been introduced and studied Plato’s Allegory of the Cave. This is in my opinion one of the finest – if not the best – allegory, metaphor or parable ever written in western philosophy, that is a brilliant and timeless illustration of the perverse and distorted reality confronting our civilization today – and throughout history.
If you are not familiar with this legendary allegory or would like a refresher with some additional insights, welcome to this article. It is not my intent to offer a detailed analysis of this masterful work, only to stimulate you to do further research and reflection on its profound message.
I believe we have a choice as to how we perceive and discern the reality and authenticity of the world that surrounds us. This has significant implications not only for determining the physical actions we take, but also for our attitudes and spiritual understanding. If you have read other posts I have written, you know that I believe the foundation of any preparedness planning action and experience is one’s attitude, and the importance of an appropriate and life-enhancing mindset. Also, as Plato points out, the greater truth – should you choose to discover it – is what I would call a spiritual or Divine validity.
If historians or philosophers were asked to name the greatest non-biblical philosopher of all times, most if not just about all would name Plato. His impact on western culture and thinking is so all pervasive that it is difficult to find individuals or schools of thought that have significantly contributed to our culture that have not been substantially influenced by Plato. May you join the club!
How does this post relate to the preparedness process? – or any action for that matter.
Know where you stand. I hope that we can all function from a position of clear thinking, honest research and evaluation, reality, and appropriate action. I encourage sensible preparedness planning, not an approach of mindless reaction, fear and an unreliable decision making process leading to wasteful and ineffective provisions .
PLATO’S ALLEGORY OF THE CAVE
This allegory is perhaps the most widely recognized feature of his entire written corpus or body of work. Commentary on this document is extensive and far-reaching, and Plato’s grasp of the human condition and psyche is remarkably comprehensive.
The description of the cave is given to us in Book VII of the Republic (514a – 521b). The opening sentence of the allegory invites us to compare the state of things in and above the cave to our natural condition as far as education and ignorance are concerned. The cave is a complete symbolic system that is essentially political, yet is descriptive of the general human condition. The “real” world to the masses of mankind is the cave, where the reality of life is but the shadows on the cave wall.
In the Republic Plato describes his version of the ideal society. The role of education and the function of the philosopher within this society are defined in an elaborate metaphor, the Allegory of the Cave. We are to imagine a group of people who live, as it were, chained to the ground in an underground cave in such a way that they can see only shadows of reality projected onto the inner wall of the cave by firelight behind them as objects are moved around by those in “control” who know that this is the only reality known to the “prisoners” and it’s what determines their worldview. The prisoners must sit still and look forward and cannot turn around (representative of the normal and unfortunate state of mankind with respect to education and knowledge and is the only reality).
Since they have been accustomed to seeing nothing but shadows all their lives, they have no way of comprehending the real world outside the cave. It is therefore the task of the philosopher who is already free from the chains of misconception and sees the truth of the cave process, to liberate the others and educate them in such a way as to set them free from the imprisonment of their falsely indoctrinated senses. The freed one in the process of being unchained and seeing the truth of the cave and experiencing the journey to the reality of the light outside and the source of this reality, undergoes a profound conversion and transformation leading to understanding and knowledge. The responsibility of returning to the cave to liberate his fellow prisoners is a painful and dangerous process.
SOME THEMES FROM THE ALLEGORY FOR REFLECTION
IN CONCLUSION
You are encouraged to obtain a copy of the Allegory by getting Plato’s Republic, or finding it on the internet. This is a transformational masterful work. The issues of ignorance, depravity and delusion that plague our society today have been with us for thousands of years. Plato is describing the fictions of today from the perspective of a society of the distant past – it has always amazed and disheartened me how little has changed over time. Let us focus on being liberated from the chains of our own cave so that we may help our families, neighbors and community reach the light that is above the darkness. We can accomplish this by setting an example – in the way we live, think and speak. One person cannot make another see, he can only provide the stimulation that helps the other see for himself.
Are we being manipulated by the Wizard!
By Denis Korn
Know the facts about do-it-yourself packing!
By popular demand I am posting this updated article first written 5 years ago and still timely and important, especially as more and more folks are packing their own to save money and create a diverse selection of food reserves. This information is always available under Food Storage Packing – Do-it-yourself Articles available on the home page in the right column.
The purpose of this article is to present specific details and recommendations for food storage packing of your own shelf stable foods for food storage, including what works and what doesn’t in creating an oxygen free atmosphere for long term food storage, and the common misconceptions of how to do your own packing will be covered. While there are many different types of dried foods that can be stored for extended periods of time, most folks are interested in how best to store grain and bean products.
Some material will be repeated in this article that has been covered in previous articles concerning the use of oxygen absorbers, storage conditions, and 25-30 year shelf life claims. While I could write a book on every specific detail of every packing option and all the technical specifications of all available packing containers, it is not the purpose of this article. I will cover important highlights, facts, insights, and information gained from over 40 years in the preparedness and outdoor recreation industry. It is important to keep in mind that I have not only been a retailer of preparedness and outdoor foods, I have been a manufacturer, developer of hundreds of recipes, packaging and product innovator, and researcher of shelf stable foods. I also was the first to use and introduce oxygen absorbers for packing outdoor recreational foods and food reserves in 1990-91, now an industry standard and essential to reduce residual oxygen levels and help extend the shelf life of dried foods.
Some of the material presented here will contradict and challenge information available on the web or in some do-it-yourself circles. Many people assume preparedness information to be accurate without careful consideration of the expertise of the source or the validity of the facts. I encourage you to research on your own any of the information presented in this article – or in any article for that matter – and to use basic critical thinking skills to evaluate the evidence and data you are offered. A little common sense goes a long way in assessing many of the claims being made about shelf life and do-it-yourself issues. I talk about the issue of trust and reliability in my articles: Who do you Trust?, The Research and Evaluation Process, and Purchasing Food Reserves – The Essential Questions.
Before you start packing your foods, be clear about what it is you want to store and for how long. Are the foods appropriate for your plans? Do you know how to prepare them? Do you have an adequate quantity? Do you have all the equipment necessary to prepare your foods? What is the nutritional quality? I suggest you study the key foundational information in my article Beginning and Improving Preparedness Planning.
This is an article dealing with dry food products with a low to very low moisture content – depending upon the item usually between 2 and about 10 %. Products can include grains, beans, seeds, dehydrated or freeze-dried fruits and vegetables, seasonings, and powders and flours.
Grains and beans can be whole or processed into numerous forms. Keep in mind that when a whole grain or bean is processed it can compromise the integrity of a natural barrier, expose any oils, and begin a process of oxidation or rancidity leading to a shortened shelf life. Some processed bean products, such as TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) have been defatted to insure a longer shelf life, and some grains have naturally lower oil content. Because of the position of the germ in rice, brown rice is not appropriate for long term storage. Also, because white flour has no wheat germ, it will last significantly longer than whole wheat flour. Research the products you are storing to determine both the moisture and oil content.
What are the goals and expectations for your food preparedness planning? What are you hoping to accomplish and for whom and how many? How realistic are your plans? How long do you want your stored foods to be palatable – edible – nutritious – agreeable? Be honest. I once again refer you to another very helpful article in assisting you in preparedness planning: The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning.
Why oxygen free?
At the end of this article I have included information on the 6 critical conditions for storing food. In this section we explore the need for a very reduced oxygen atmosphere when storing food for long periods. Basically there are 2 reasons for wanting to store food in an oxygen free environment – (1) eliminate the possibility for infestation from insects and microorganisms, and (2) control oxidation, which leads to the rancidity of fats and oils, foul taste, off color, and nutritional deterioration. NOTE: Freezing foods do not effectively kill microscopic insect eggs. The lower the oxygen levels – the more effective in preserving the integrity of the foods stored. Some foods are more susceptible to oxidation deterioration than others. It is important to know how susceptible the foods you are storing are to oxidation, because as you will see the type of container you store your foods in may at some point no longer be an adequate oxygen barrier. Research by Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, the inventors of oxygen absorbers and manufacturer of the Ageless® brand absorber, indicates that in an oxygen free atmosphere (their absorbers can reduce the residual oxygen level in the proper container to 0.1% or less) all adults, larvae, pupae, and eggs of the most prevalent dry food insects are killed within 14 days.
If oxidation and elimination of all stages in an insect’s development by eliminating available oxygen is not an issue, there are other methods that can be utilized with varying effectiveness in controlling insect infestation. Options include:
Utilize an oxygen absorber – properly (see the very informative article Using and About Oxygen Absorbers)
Pro:
Con:
Insert a wand into a pouch, can, bucket, or jar and attempt to replace the atmosphere by squirting it with nitrogen (the most commonly used inert gas)
Pro:
Con:
The dry ice method
There was a time (and there may still be) when folks would put dry ice at the bottom or top of a container, leave the lid slightly ajar, wait for the ice to evaporate, and then seal the lid. This method has so many problems that I won’t bother to give it pros and cons. It is not recommended.
Use a home model vacuum sealer with either a plastic pouch or available attachment to put over a jar
Pro:
Con:
Go to a cannery – You can do your own canning of your own product in #10 metal cans. Some canneries will sell you cans and bulk foods.
Pro:
Con:
Use a manually operated or electric, smaller, model open top can seam sealer
Pro:
Con:
Of all the issues relating to packing your own shelf stable foods, the most effective container to use can be the most confusing and misrepresented. As stated in the beginning of this article be clear about what you are storing, how much, and for how long.
Plastic buckets (HDPE – high density polyethylene) – 5 and 6 gallon round and square sizes with handles are very popular for packing grains, beans, and other commodities in bulk
Pro:
Con:
Pouches – There are literally thousands of possible combinations of materials and sizes available to create a pouch that will contain food. Normally a food manufacturer or packer goes to a company that specializes in manufacturing pouches and gives the company their specifications and requirements for the specific foods to be packed.
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is common these days among those who sell empty pouches for food storage, or food already in pouches, to use the term “Mylar pouch.” This is very misleading. By itself the term can mean anything and it tells you nothing of importance so that you can make the appropriate decisions on what pouch to use. The “Mylar” brand is the registered trademark name of a PET polyester film manufactured by DuPont Teijin Films. They produce hundreds of variations of this polyester resin material. It is a component used in the production of many variations of packaging material. It can be clear or opaque such as in wrappers for food bars or Mylar balloons – that look “metalized” yet contain no foil. Mylar by itself is not an appropriate material for long term pouched food. Ask you supplier what they mean when they say “Mylar.”
For those reading this article the requirements needed are to pack dry foods for the long term. If you buy stock pouches from a distributor you need to tell them what you plan to put in it and what your expectations are for the long term. You should insist on knowing the specifications (especially the gas and vapor transmission rates) of the pouch and whether they suit your needs.
If you want a pouch that gives you the longest possible shelf life for your foods, you will need a laminated pouch consisting of multiple components and layers. As far as pouches are concerned, one of those layers must be foil (NOTE: All plastics are gas and vapor permeable – some rates are very high – meaning that gases transmit through them very quickly – and some plastics both individually and in combination have slower rates). Only quality foil is a non-permeable gas and moisture barrier – that is foil without microscopic holes. NOTE: Most pouches used by today’s food storage companies have what is know as ‘pin holing’ – because of the lower quality and thickness of the pouch, especially the foil layer. These are extremely small holes that will eventually transmit oxygen through them. While these pouches can be still be effective for some years, to claim a 25 year shelf life is misleading and deceptive. Also, keep in mind none of these companies claiming a 25 year pouch shelf life have been in business more than a few years. The 25 year claim is a marketing trick. It is interesting that many of these companies promote their foods as “survival” foods – that is to say their foods are better than starving, and after 25 years that’s the best you can hope for.
Ask the distributor the specifications of the pouch, the different components used – not only for barrier properties but also for durability, the transmission rates if not foil, if foil – its thickness, and the reliability and reputation of the manufacturer.
Pro:
Con:
Metal cans – For food storage purposes #10 size (about 7/8 gal) and #2 ½ size (about 7/8 qt) are the most popular used with the proper can sealers. It is possible, if you keep searching, to find 5 gallon square metal cans with a large pressure lid on the top side. These are ideal for bulk food storage, although they may be hard to find (NOTE: I sold these cans packed with foods at AlpineAire Foods about 25 years ago). You also may want to consider clean or new metal garbage cans as a means to store smaller size foil pouched foods.
Pro:
Con:
Glass
Pro:
Con:
First choice – if possible store foods in metal cans with the proper size oxygen absorber
Second choice –
I see no point in putting additional oxygen absorbers into the plastic bucket or container in which the foil pouch is placed.
Third Choice
Tips
There are six conditions to be aware of when storing food for emergency preparedness food storage, or outdoor recreation. The foods being referred to in this post are shelf-stable freeze-dried, dehydrated, dried commodities. Optimal storage conditions can also be applied to wet pack: retort, MRE’s, canned goods, and other specialty longer term wet pack foods.
NOTE: The six conditions listed are chosen because these are factors in which we have the control to optimize for the longest reliable shelf life. TIME is the one factor that we can not control – and it does have a significant effect on the shelf life of various foods. Nutritional value is lost with many foods over time. To know with certainty the viable nutritional value of all food reserve items at any given time after a lengthy period of storage – is at best complex or most likely mere conjecture and guesswork. What we can do is to apply proper planning procedures – do your research with trusted resources, rotate and consume your storage foods, and be realistic about how long you will really need the foods you choose to store.
By Denis Korn
You life depends on being awake!
In the over 40 years that I have been involved in the emergency preparedness industry one fundamental question always emerges – especially after a significant disaster – why are so many people in denial of a possible or impending disaster when to many others it seems self-evident? Then the next questions emerge – why are so many unprepared and what prevents people from implementing the necessary actions to protect and provide for themselves, family or business? Is it a lack of information and initiative, funding, time, fear, lack of common sense or all of the above? Or perhaps there is something else.
The answer appears to be Normalcy Bias.
So what is normalcy bias and what can be done to address its effects? Business leaders, government agencies, security workers, firefighters and police, emergency management personnel and anyone involved in emergency/disaster preparedness want to know – how can vulnerable citizens be motivated to take responsibility for their own safety and protection in the event of a significant emergency?
A definition and explanation from Wikipedia:
— “The normalcy bias refers to a mental state people enter when facing a disaster. It causes people to underestimate both the possibility of a disaster occurring and its possible effects. This often results in situations where people fail to adequately prepare for a disaster, and on a larger scale, the failure of the government to include the populace in its disaster preparations. The assumption that is made in the case of the normalcy bias is that since a disaster never has occurred then it never will occur. It also results in the inability of people to cope with a disaster once it occurs. People with a normalcy bias have difficulties reacting to something they have not experienced before. People also tend to interpret warnings in the most optimistic way possible, seizing on any ambiguities to infer a less serious situation.
The normalcy bias may be caused in part by the way the brain processes new data. Research suggests that even when the brain is calm, it takes 8–10 seconds to process new information. Stress slows the process, and when the brain cannot find an acceptable response to a situation, it fixates on a single solution that may or may not be correct. An evolutionary reason for this response could be that paralysis gives an animal a better chance of surviving an attack; predators are less likely to eat prey that isn’t struggling.
The normalcy bias often results in unnecessary deaths in disaster situations. The lack of preparation for disasters often leads to inadequate shelter, supplies, and evacuation plans. Even when all these things are in place, individuals with a normalcy bias often refuse to leave their homes. Studies have shown that more than 70% of people check with others before deciding to evacuate.
The normalcy bias also causes people to drastically underestimate the effects of the disaster. Therefore, they think that everything will be all right, while information from the radio, television, or neighbors gives them reason to believe there is a risk. This creates a cognitive dissonance that they then must work to eliminate. Some manage to eliminate it by refusing to believe new warnings coming in and refusing to evacuate (maintaining the normalcy bias), while others eliminate the dissonance by escaping the danger. The possibility that some may refuse to evacuate causes significant problems in disaster planning.” —
Examples:
Normalcy bias can be expanded to include a wide variety of non-response/denial reactions to the events that occur in everyday life. This is especially prevalent given the uncertainties and fears of the social, economic, educational and governmental breakdowns in our contemporary culture. Having taught college critical thinking courses, I have studied and observed the inability of most folks to critically think through an important or serious situation – too few critically think, they react – or worst yet – they do nothing.
With so many natural and economic disasters happening currently we often witness the tragic results of normalcy bias. People unwilling to get out of harm’s way – people unprepared to cope with the aftermath of a catastrophe – people totally dependent on the government, charity and others – fear, helplessness and misery.
We here of people being warned of impending disasters such as hurricanes, floods and fires, yet there is needless suffering, death and injury because of inaction or of acting too late. I am always disappointed with people when it is reported that at the last minute so many stores are sold out of essential survival and preparedness supplies.
A primary attitude of one with normalcy bias is that the disaster or catastrophe is truly regrettable, and it will not happen to me but unfortunately it will happen to others. The person refuses to believe that they also are subject to misfortune and potential suffering. Tragedy always seems to happen to other folks.
The classic example in recent history is the unfortunate suffering and death of countless Jews during the Holocaust. During the rise of Nazi persecution, the majority of Jews could not or would accept the reality of the moment and inaction was devastating.
Those suffering from normalcy bias are unable and/or unwilling to accept the responsibility of acknowledging the reality surrounding them – and taking the appropriate and prudent action. They are in the hands of providence.
What to do?
If I had a simple answer to this question the world would probably be beating a path to my door. Overcoming normalcy bias, denial and lack of motivation is not only difficult, it requires a level of strength and determination that is counter to so much of the indoctrination of contemporary society – which fails to support personal responsibility and self-reliance.
I will however offer some suggestions to address this debilitating condition of normalcy bias – this is serious stuff – your life and the life of loved ones and associates may depend on understanding what it takes to act!
By Denis Korn
I am once again posting this popular article. Responsible preparedness planning is never out of date.
Be prepared for taking action!
1. Thou shalt acknowledge oneself for being responsible
You have made a wise and sound decision and have chosen to take responsibility for you and your family, and to be prepared in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Be encouraged to continue this process with diligence, motivation, and discernment. Read: Beginning and Improving Preparedness Planning
2. Thou shalt have the proper attitude
Yes – attitude is a decision – your attitude during a traumatic event or disaster is essential for survival – attitude is everything – emotional and spiritual. Your attitude determines and establishes your thoughts, mind-set and beliefs. Read: Your Attitude is Your Decision – Own it! — The Emotional and Spiritual Components of Preparedness
3. Thou shalt embrace critical thinking
There is more to preparing for emergencies than the physical “stuff” you surround yourself with. Evaluating, understanding and acknowledging all aspects of the planning process is essential for a proper and complete preparedness program. Read: Barriers to Critical Thinking
4. Thou shalt not be deceived
In my 42 years in this industry and 46 years of related studies I have not seen more ‘mis’ and ‘dis’ information, deliberate deceit and blatant ignorance relating to matters of preparedness, end times prophesy, interpretation of world events, economic reality and the value and meaning of freedom. Read: Are You Being Deceived? Trust – Confusion – Critical Thinking
5. Thou shalt read and study
Continue doing research and evaluation – Write down and complete any lists, inventories, important points, insights you have received, or anything else suggested or inferred in the articles that will help in your preparedness planning – Discuss and request feedback about your plans and supplies with others, as you feel appropriate – friends, experts, suppliers.
6. Thou shalt answer the 12 crucial questions
Preparedness planning is fundamentally built on two principles – developing a philosophical or personal worldview while evaluating and assessing the current state of affairs – and then developing a specific plan of action based upon your reflective conclusions, needs, and the physical conditions that you anticipate can occur. Read and answer: The 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning
7. Thou shalt have the proper provisions
Use this guideline of essentials to ensure you have evaluated all the possibilities given the scenarios and circumstances for which you are preparing and provisioning. Your life may depend upon it. Read and study: The Checklist of Essentials
8. Thou shalt be resilient – self-reliant – honest
“As a society today, we are extremely vulnerable to events over which we have virtually no control. The systems created to support our basic needs are now so complex and interdependent, that a serious emergency can cause breakdowns in the supply of essential goods and services.” – Denis Korn, 1989. Read: Why Prepare? — Honesty – The Cornerstone of Effective Preparedness Planning
9. Thou shalt not forget others
Your belief in the meaning of your life will either motivate you to take responsibility and action for yourself, family, friends and community or it will cause you to do nothing, because preparedness will have no relevance. Your responsibility to your family is essential! Read: Preparedness and the Meaning of Life — Prepare the Entire Family for Emergencies
10. Thou shalt Celebrate Peace of Mind
This will be the result of your proper attitude, serious reflection, productive research, embracing responsibility, sincere service to others, conscientious action, and earnest prayer.
As the traditional 10 Commandments is the foundation for right living, let the 10 Commandments of Preparedness be a foundation for effective readiness.
Be Encouraged!
My Be Encouraged post first appeared at the end of 2011 and I have received many encouraging comments about its value in these troubling times. I especially wanted to re-post this updated version with further encouragement. It is not meant to be an article about preparedness or outdoor adventure – it is here to be a brief rest from the apprehension of daily life and the anguish of the times. 2017 has been a year of significant challenges and 2018 will be even more daunting – may you be encouraged to endure with sustaining faith and hope!
I felt a personal calling to write and share this prayer of encouragement as a gift to those needing some uplifting words during distressing events and the constant perpetration by media and government of crisis, fear and hysteria.
It is difficult to stay positive, feel secure and be joyful when the world around us appears to be degenerating and transforming, and so many people are delusional.
We all need encouragement to help us cope
Blessings to those who are encouraged by these words
God is our refuge and strength.
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling.
Psalm 46: 1-3
By Denis Korn 
As the awareness and motivation to store food provisions for extended periods of time grows with every alarming headline, I have been asked to once again post one of the important 15 Foundational Articles. This is valuable basic overview of long term food storage issues.
I am frequently asked, especially by newer preparedness planners, for a concise overview of food storage basics. I am thankful for many new readers that have found this blog in the last few months, and I feel that this article: A Comprehensive Primer on Long Term Food Storage is so important that I am posting it again as we approach critical times. It is directed towards the serious planner who requires information that summarizes the key points of the food storage process.
With so many preparedness websites and blogs and so many instant experts it becomes increasing difficult to know who to trust and what to believe. This is by no means an easy task. It takes serious research and asking the right questions – and expecting accurate answers – discerning the truth is challenging and daunting. I know this is difficult because I not only receive numerous phone calls for help, I personally have seen and heard distortions, inaccurate information and blatant deception.
For over 42 years I have been intimately involved in the preparedness, outdoor recreation and natural foods industries – as a retailer, wholesaler, manufacturer, educator and consultant. You are invited to read any of the articles at this blog that relates to your interests and be serious about answering the many questions posed and researching what I have conveyed. I hope you will trust my experiences and insights.
Cook versus No-cook
A primary decision needs to be made, as it relates to the specific long term food provisions that you want to procure. Do you want foods that require cooking or do you want foods that require no cooking – or perhaps some of both?
Cooking required food reserves are simply foods that need to be cooked – boiled, fried or baked – in order to be eaten. Examples include: traditional grains and beans, pasta, bread – egg – pancake mixes and some soup and stew mixes.
No-cook food reserves are foods that can be eaten as-is, or after hot or cold water is added to the foods, and being reconstituted for a short time, are then eaten. Examples include: freeze-dried and some dehydrated ingredients, meals and mixes, granola, supplements, fruits and powdered drinks.
Cook
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
No-Cook
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Pouch versus Can
These can be commercially available dried food products packed in pouches and cans, or empty pouches and cans for do-it-yourself packing. Pouches referred to in this section are ones that have a good quality metal foil barrier with an adequate thickness as one of the components in the layering of the pouch (3 or more layers required). Metalized, transparent or plastic only pouches are not suitable for long term storage of food. Cans are rigid-wall metal cans with the proper seal.
Pouches
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Cans
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
NOTE: If protected from potential breakage, properly sealed glass canning jars – quart to 1/2 gallon – with an added oxygen absorber, can be an excellent container for smaller quantity dried foods. Glass and metal are the only materials available with a zero gas transmission rate – required for long term storage.
Calories versus Servings
A common marketing tactic used by many food companies today is to promote a given number of servings in an assortment, and sometimes to even state that an assortment is good for a given period of time with a given number of servings. In the preparedness market place today, where people may have to depend on daily food rations for their nourishment, only knowing the number of servings in an assortment is close to meaningless and the information insignificant . Why? Because a “serving” quantity and quality can be anything the company wants it to be. You need more information.
The standard for comparing one reserve food product with another has traditionally been to compare the number of calories of similar products or meals. This is done by comparing the calories by either: knowing the stated calories and the weight in a given serving of a product; or the number of calories of a food product in a comparable sized pouch or container. This enables comparisons of similar items from different companies – comparing apples with apples. Even the government on their mandated nutritional information requires the calories be listed – and the source of those calories.
How many calories does the company recommend one should consume per day, and how many of their servings will it take to achieve this number?
Now you can do the math and compare the real cost and value of one companies products to another. What is the cost per quality calorie? What is the cost for supplying the proper number of calories for the time period in your emergency scenario? Don’t forget it is the quality of the calories that is critical. Sugar is not quality calories!
Here is the important issue: The RDA (recommended daily allowance) for the average adult person is 2,000 calories a day (reputable companies generally allow 1,800 to 2,200 calories a day in formulating their assortments). There are companies who promote a 500 to 1000 calorie per day allowance!
Long-Term
Generally long-term refers to a time period of three – four years or longer. Many seek food products with that will last up to 30 years. In the real world there are few situations where one would rely on 30 year old food, however with the application of the proper technology and storage conditions it is possible to still consume 30 year old food. Boxed, wet pack, frozen, high moisture foods and canned grocery items are not considered long-term for purposes of this primer.
Shelf Life/Shelf-Stability
This term refers to the viable and reasonable life that can be expected of a food product in storage. During this time the food product must still have significant nutritional value and be palatable and acceptable.
The 7 factors that effect shelf life and stability are: temperature – moisture – oxygen – infestation – handling – light – time
Food Storage
Simply stated, food storage refers to food provisions that one stores for a long term. These food products usually have a long shelf life and can be relied upon during times of need or emergency. There is a diversity of different foods in various forms that can be utilized for a proper food storage program.
Do-it-Yourself Packing
This can be cost effective, customized, fun to do, involve friends and groups, localized and creative. Before you start packing your foods, be clear about what it is you want to store and for how long. Are the foods appropriate for your plans? Do you know how to prepare them? Do you have an adequate quantity? Do you have all the equipment necessary to prepare your foods? What is the nutritional quality? Are the containers you are using effective for long term storage?
Nitrogen/oxygen free atmosphere
Basically there are 2 reasons for wanting to store food in an oxygen free environment – (1) eliminate the possibility for infestation and contamination from insects and microorganisms, and (2) control oxidation, which leads to the rancidity of fats and oils, foul taste, off color, and nutritional deterioration. The lower the oxygen levels – the more effective in preserving the integrity of the foods stored. Lower oxygen levels are directly related to shelf life.
Some foods are more susceptible to oxidation deterioration than others. It is important to know how susceptible the foods you are storing are to oxidation, because as you will see the type of container you store your foods in may at some point no longer be an adequate oxygen barrier.
Crucial Questions
The serious and conscientious preparedness planner is encouraged to carefully and honestly answer these 12 crucial questions. These questions apply not only to long-term food storage planning, but also all preparedness planning.
Evaluate the entire list at 12 Crucial Questions of Preparedness Planning
Preparedness/Disaster Planning
The first step in the preparedness planning process is the acknowledgment that you have made a wise and sound decision and have chosen to take responsibility for you and your family, and to be prepared in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Be encouraged to continue this process with diligence, motivation, and discernment.
This process is basically undertaken in three phases – each one of which will take as much time as you wish to devote, and the degree of urgency you are experiencing.
The initial assessment
This consists of 6 basic questions that you are encouraged to answer that will lead you along the matrix to your destination:
Disaster Scenarios
We live in a time of unprecedented options and potential scenarios that could create challenging and disruptive circumstances. What is required is serious evaluation of current events for taking effective action. The delivery of essential goods and services is so interdependent on a multitude of diverse factors, that a breakdown in any one area can have severe consequences on our daily life. Here are some potential scenarios for your consideration:
Acts of God – Man made disasters – Earth Changes: Earthquakes – Government Regulation/Control – Catastrophic Weather – Flood – Martial Law – Asteroid/Comet – Fire – Food Shortages – Pole Shift – Hurricanes – Societal Breakdown – Solar Flare/CME – Storm/Ice/Snow – Civil Disobedience/Riots – Tribulation/Religious – Tornado – Medical Emergency – Severe Earth Changes – Drought – Economic Emergency/Collapse – Power Outage – Major Accident – Mud Slides – Terrorism Attack – Tsunami – Biological/Chemical/Radiological Attack – EMP (Electrical Magnetic Pulse) Attack – Personal Issues – Bombing – Job Loss – War – Illness – Cyber Attack – No Internet – Unforeseen Emergencies – Financial Loss – Famine/Food Shortages – Grid Breakdown/No Electricity
Trusting Suppliers – Food & Supplies
Preparedness planning is a prudent and wise action to take. This search for provisions however, can create a dilemma – Who do you trust? Remember, you and your family are relying on preparedness products, especially food and water options, to sustain you during critical times. Some situations can be so catastrophic as to have life or death consequences. It is this very real potential scenario that compels me personally to take the process of emergency planning very seriously.
Numerous preparedness dealers and websites have recently appeared on the scene, and many are claiming the virtues of their products and are hoping to take advantage of current demands. I have been in this industry for a long time, and I have seen numerous companies come and go as political, economic, or prophetic issues dominate the news. With the advent of the internet, it has become even more difficult to assess the reliability of online companies.
Many companies are conscientious and dependable – as a previous manufacturer of food reserve products I have had business relationships with a number of these companies over the years. Unfortunately many are very questionable. I have examined their products, their data, and the accuracy of their information – it ranges from inadequate, to unclear, to erroneous. It is hard to believe that businesses promoting products and information essential for survival in an emergency can be fraudulent and dishonorable, however there are companies who prey on fear and greed and are not principled nor respectable.
USDA Inspection
To package meat products legally, shelf-stable food manufacturing establishments must be federally inspected to comply with the strictest USDA standards for truthfulness in labeling, ingredient conformity, wholesomeness, and cleanliness.
Storage Conditions
NOTE: The six conditions listed are chosen because these are factors in which we have the control to optimize for the longest reliable shelf life. TIME is the one factor that we can not control – and it does have a significant effect on the shelf life of various foods. Nutritional value is lost with many foods over time. To know with certainty the viable nutritional value of all food reserve items at any given time after a lengthy period of storage – is at best complex or most likely mere conjecture and guesswork. What we can do is to apply proper planning procedures – do your research with trusted resources, rotate and consume your storage foods, and be realistic about how long you will really need the foods you choose to store.
PRODUCT OPTIONS
Freeze-dried
This is a specific technology that refers to foods which have been frozen and dried at low temperatures in a vacuum chamber. Moisture is removed by a process known as sublimation. The term “freeze-dried” is often used to designate a dried food product that requires no cooking. Some meal blends will contain a variety of no cook, freeze-dried, dehydrated and other drying technologies.
Unfortunately, there are currently unethical preparedness food “marketing” companies that claim to provide “freeze-dried” foods, however their foods either need to be cooked and/or contain little or no freeze-dried foods at all. Buyer Beware – read ingredient declarations and preparation instructions.
The Benefits of Freeze-Drying – From a Major Processor’s Site
Dehydrated
This is a general designation for all foods that have had water removed. It includes a number of different products and dehydrating techniques. Methods of drying include:
MRE/Retort/Self-Heating
The items in this category are wet packed in foil or plastic “flexible” packaging. MRE is a military term that stands for “Meals Ready to Eat” and was designed as combat rations for the military. Retort (available in many grocery stores and catalog companies) refers to the heating process, which give these products a longer shelf life. Self-heating meals are packaged entrees that contain everything necessary to have a hot meal anywhere. The individual flameless heaters were developed for the military.
Commodities
This category includes dozens of varieties of grains, beans, legumes and seeds, and can be utilized in numerous forms such as; whole, cracked, flaked, instant, flour, pasta and sprouted.
Grocery shelf
This is the category people are most familiar with and the one most will start with when beginning a storage program.
Comfort foods
During emergencies it is important to have foods available which are special treats and personally satisfying. These include:
Sprouting
It is not only a good idea to eat fresh sprouts normally; it is an essential during any prolonged emergency where fresh vegetables are not available. Sprouts are live, highly nutritious, nutritionally dense foods that contain essential elements for healthy living. They contain enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and much more. In an emergency it can be your only source for important nutrients. They are easy to grow and cost very little for so much value. You can sprout grains, beans, seeds and nuts.
Supplements
Very important in emergency situations when a nutritional diet may not be available.
Many products have 2 to 3 year shelf life.
Home Canning/Drying
With an abundance of fresh foods always available, canning and drying your own is very cost effective.
Gardening
If the scenarios you anticipate to occur indicate a disruption of normal food supplies for a long period of time, then you will want to consider planting and maintaining a garden. Obtain quality, non-hybrid, organic if possible, fresh garden seeds. Get good gardening books and equipment. Learn how to properly store seeds – this is critical – for next seasons planting. Different seeds have varying viability and germination rates over time.
– Carrots – Cauliflower
– Beets – Chard
– Lettuce – Dandelion
– Cabbage – Kale
– Broccoli – Celery
– Radishes – Herbs
– Spinach
– Save seeds of wild edibles.
Appliances/Equipment- Food Preparation
Water
o How much water do you have available to you in an emergency?
o Will you have enough to clean foods you have stored?
o Will you have enough to cook foods that require lengthy boiling (beans, grains, pasta)?
o What quantities will you need to reconstitute “no cooking required” freeze-dried and dehydrated foods?
o Will you want to wash pots and utensils?
o Do you know how to obtain, store and/or purify water?
o Will you have enough water for sprouting and/or gardening?
Water Sources – Storage – Treatment
Sources:
Storage:
Treatment:
Water Storage Tips
Fuel
o Wood, pellets, pine cones, plants.
o Paper, trash, cardboard, cloth.
o Propane, butane-bulk and in small canisters.
o Natural gas.
o Heating oil.
o Kerosene, gasoline, diesel.
o Candles, paraffin, fuel gel.
o Coal, charcoal.
o Rice hulls, corn cobs.
o Electricity.
o The sun- solar ovens, cookers.
By Denis Korn
This post -Essential Home and Vehicle Emergency Kit and Family Preparedness Information – is one of the most important posts I have presented. I am posting it again in light of the recent devastating floods in Houston and surrounding areas. The timeliness of this information can not be over stated! The uncertainty of the times requires appropriate preparation and answering the questions contained in this article. It is a valuable companion to another important post Essential Checklist for Emergency Preparedness & Outdoor Adventure Planning – Including Vehicle Preparedness – Latest Update.
I feel it is very important to also include one of my Foundational Articles titled Is your entire family prepared for emergencies at all times? It appears at the end of this post.
You are highly encouraged to share this post and its vital information with family, friends, business associates, church and temple congregations and other members of any organizations to which you belong. May this post help you in your serious preparedness planning. Celebrate Peace of Mind!
Here are the crucial questions to answer when assembling your emergency kit/grab-and-go/bug-out bag – which is essential if you must leave your home or business quickly.
To have a truly adequate emergency kit/grab-and-go/bug-out bag the above questions must be answered. Your personal preparedness bag contents will vary depending on numerous factors such as time, number of persons, locations involved, mobility, support available, season, comfort level desired and the degree of peace of mind you want.
Here is a list of the basic essentials for every kit. Each category will have multiple options depending on how you answer the above crucial questions. Cheap, inadequate and poorly made provisions don’t belong in a quality kit. Prepare your kit as if you and your family’s life and comfort depended on it – because it does!
If time permits, take irreplaceable items such as heirlooms, heirloom jewelry, photographs, military/marriage/birth/deed records, computers, tablets, and personal contact information and documents not included in your grab-and-go device.
Water
An obvious necessity for everyone. Know what water sources are available to you during an emergency, or in the outdoors. Plan accordingly and don’t hold back preparing for this essential category.
Determine whether or not you want to purify water for viruses. Not all water filters are designed for this purpose – look for water purifiers that specifically state that they will kill viruses.
Food
Numerous options are available. This category must be accessed carefully and the quality and quantity of foods chosen should be appropriate to the anticipated length of time of the emergency or outing, and severity of circumstances you anticipate might occur. For shorter term scenarios foods in most situations should be nutritious and ready-to-eat; however you might want to consider some foods requiring only the addition of cold or hot water. If you do need hot water you must plan for the appropriate means and equipment to heat your water. Options listed have a longer shelf life and are suitably packaged for kits or backpacks.
Medical
When your health and survival during a medical emergency is at stake, you don’t want to rely on cheap or inadequate medical supplies. This is an important category to thoughtfully evaluate. Don’t forget medications or products needed for those with special medical conditions. If your pre-assembled kit doesn’t include one, make sure you get a good book on medical emergencies.
Shelter/warmth
Protection from the elements and insects is essential, especially in a harsh climate.
Tools
Numerous unforeseen situations or just routine conditions occur during an emergency or during an outdoor adventure. Be prepared and secure with the proper quality tool.
Communication/Signaling
It is important to keep informed during an emergency with friends, family, and appropriate governmental agencies and emergency organizations. When in an outdoor environment, unsettled weather considerations necessitate weather alert radios. Avoid a sense of isolation during serious emergencies. If you get lost or are separated from your group signaling can be crucial. Since electronic items are included in this category, you may want to consider a small solar power device.
Lighting
This is an essential category to address when anticipating any situation where you may be in darkness. Not only for a sense of security and comfort, but to be able to see clearly and act accordingly if emergencies occur in the dark.
Personal protection
For some this may not be an essential basic category. Each individual must decide the extent to which they will or will not provide protection for themselves and their families from physical harm by others or wild animals.
This article provides a very basic list of suggested items we believe are essential for emergency preparedness and outdoor recreation; especially if space, weight, and mobility are important. For an expanded list of suggestions read our article: Essential Checklist for Emergency Preparedness & Outdoor Adventure Planning Including Vehicle Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness Items for Automobiles – Trucks – Vans – RV’s
These items are especially important for long trips, family outings, new younger drivers, inclement weather, remote areas and at night.
AS A FATHER OF 3 DAUGHTERS AND 8 GRANDCHILDREN, I HIGHLY ENCOURAGE FATHERS AND MOTHERS TO ENSURE YOUR CHILDREN ARE SECURE AND PREPARED – ESPECIALLY IN WINTER AND INCLEMENT WEATHER – WHEN THEY ARE DRIVING!
Additional critical items from the Essential Checklist to carry in your vehicle:
Recent events have brought us catastrophic circumstances that have had devastating and lasting effects on thousands of people around the world. I pray that you take this advice seriously. Recent conversations have also motivated me to consider this important article as a Foundational Article.
I am reminded of a presentation I made some years back to a large gathering of preparedness professionals. This convention consisted of folks who came from all over the country and of course this meant that they would be gone from their families for a few days. Bear in mind that at my presentation there were a couple hundred people whose responsibilities included preparedness planning and education for very large companies, organizations, and governmental agencies.
At the beginning of my talk I asked the group how many felt completely confident that in their absence their families were prepared to deal with unforeseen emergencies or disasters – especially significant ones. Only a few raised their hands! Since most of these participants were the head of their households, what does it tell you about fulfilling one’s responsibility to protect and keep the family secure in difficult times?
Fortunately over the years the professional emergency management community has become more dedicated to personally embodying what they are responsible for in government and business. What about the average household?
It appears that most head of households have some notion that their presence is security enough for the family during an emergency. This is a dangerous assumption. The sensible attitude is to ensure that all family members – adults – the elderly – teenagers – and young children, know:
Instructions should be in writing and the entire family should participate in drills and practices. Family members – immediate and extended – should know their part during an emergency under all scenarios and given any combination of family members physically present – or absent.
Between Learn To Prepare and numerous internet websites, there is an abundance of valuable information for the whole family. Study this information as if your life and your families’ life depended on it – in a significant emergency it does!
So I ask all of you reading this post: In your absence is you family adequately educated and prepared to properly respond and survive during a serious emergency situation? I encourage you to have all family members read the Foundational Articles on the right column of this blog.
By Denis Korn
Seriously reflect on this post!
Time to look at the importance of attitude once again. Why? Look around – read the headlines – talk to family, friends, co-workers – experience the media – both mainstream and alternative – what is your attitude about the current state of our society? I hope this post “About Attitude – An Encouragement” will help you understand the essential nature of a proper attitude especially during these most trying of times.
What’s your attitude – about anything? How are you coping? Do you see a correlation between your attitude and your mental and physical health? Do you feel helpless and unable to effect any meaningful change? Is the prospect of impending disaster and lifestyle upheaval generating a overwhelming amount of fear? Do you feel incapacitated? Do you feel that others – the government – the banks – the ignorant masses – the evil ones – the self-serving are controlling your life? What is your responsibility during these most challenging of times? WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT ALL THIS? WHAT ATTITUDE WILL YOU CHOOSE? DO YOU REALIZE YOUR ATTITUDE IS YOUR DECISION?
Yes – attitude is a decision – your attitude during a traumatic event or disaster is essential for survival – attitude is everything. So what does this mean, especially during an emergency, disaster, or catastrophic event?
After over 40 years of educating, supplying, and encouraging folks for emergency preparedness, I am convinced and truly believe that the most important element in emergency and disaster preparedness is one’s attitude. Where is your focus? Who relies upon your courage and commitment? Can you be counted upon to encourage others and take charge?
I am also aware that in our society where personal responsibility and owning one’s choices is not the essential value it should be, choosing an appropriate attitude is exceedingly difficult. It is even more difficult during a situation where you are gripped with stress, anxiety, and fear.
One’s attitude during trying times sets the context or foundation for all the actions taken – or not taken. Attitude often determines whether your actions and intentions will succeed or fail. Attitude can often be the difference between life or death – hope or despair – calm or chaos – order or confusion – love or hate – selflessness or selfishness. Your attitude is your state of mind – your thoughts, and to be able to control and choose how you are going to think and behave in challenging times requires great discipline and focus. It requires a positive and confident outlook and inlook – a constant awareness of the consequences and results of the attitude you embrace. The benefits of a constructive and encouraging attitude should be self-evident, as are the realities of the struggle in persevering during difficult trials.
The development of a proper and victorious attitude requires determination, strength of will, and constant attention. If you are with those who also understand the importance of attitude, mutually support each other continually. For believers earnest prayer is essential.
To encourage you in understanding the value and the importance of developing the right attitude during overwhelming circumstances, I recommend one of the great and influential books written in the 20th century. I used it in my philosophy classes as required reading, and the response from students was significant. The book is titled Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl. He was a doctor who survived four concentration camps during the Holocaust. While there are many books written on the importance of a positive attitude, Frankl’s experiences and the conditions he endured gave him an extraordinary perspective. His insights on attitude during the worst of circumstances is invaluable.
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms–to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” Viktor Frankl
“Frankl’s wisdom here is worth emphasizing: it is a question of the attitude one takes toward life’s challenges and opportunities, both large and small. A positive attitude enables a person to endure suffering and disappointment as well as enhance enjoyment and satisfaction. A negative attitude intensifies pain and deepens disappointments…” William Winslade in the Afterword to Man’s Search for Meaning (2006 printing)
You are encouraged to be honest with yourself – answer the questions given – and seriously reflect upon this post!
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