Just in Case

1. Prepare for self-sufficiency with the OAR system: Organize, Acquire, Rotate

"The essence of family preparedness is to take steps now, when the sun is shining, to protect your family."

Organize your space: Start by decluttering your home and identifying storage areas for emergency supplies. Create an inventory of what you already have and what you need to acquire.

Acquire supplies systematically: Build your stockpile gradually, focusing on essentials like food, water, medical supplies, and tools. Purchase items when they're on sale or in bulk to save money.

Rotate your stock: Use and replace items regularly to ensure freshness. Incorporate stored foods into your regular meal planning to maintain familiarity and prevent waste.

2. Create a comprehensive preparedness notebook and family communication plan

"Make note of any special dietary needs and plan for them."

Preparedness notebook: Develop a detailed notebook containing:

• Inventory of supplies
• Family medical information
• Important documents (copies)
• Emergency contact numbers
• Local resources and evacuation routes

Communication plan: Establish a family communication strategy:

• Designate an out-of-area contact person
• Identify local and regional meeting places
• Practice emergency drills regularly
• Keep a hand-crank or battery-powered radio for updates

3. Develop essential skills for independence and crisis management

"Capable children are confident children."

Learn practical skills: Focus on developing abilities that enhance self-reliance:

• First aid and CPR
• Basic home and auto repair
• Food preservation and cooking from scratch
• Gardening and foraging
• Water purification

Involve the whole family: Teach children age-appropriate skills and involve them in preparedness activities. This builds confidence and ensures everyone can contribute during a crisis.

4. Stock up on food, water, and supplies for extended emergencies

"How much to store is an individual matter."

Food storage: Aim for a 3-month supply of non-perishable foods:

• Canned goods (fruits, vegetables, meats)
• Dried beans, rice, and pasta
• Powdered milk and eggs
• Cooking oils and seasonings

Water storage: Store 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Include water purification methods like filters or tablets.

Other essentials:

• First aid supplies and medications
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights and batteries
• Multi-tool and basic tools
• Cash in small denominations

5. Implement alternative power, heating, and cooking methods

"Crisis can take many forms."

Power alternatives:

• Solar panels or portable solar chargers
• Hand-crank generators
• Battery banks

Heating options:

• Wood stove or fireplace (with proper ventilation)
• Propane or kerosene heaters (with caution)
• Extra blankets and warm clothing

Cooking methods:

• Propane camp stove (outdoor use only)
• Solar oven
• Rocket stove or outdoor fire pit

6. Master food preservation techniques for long-term sustainability

"Learning to grow at least some of your own food will go a long way toward reducing your dependence on a food transportation and distribution system that cannot function without electricity and fossil fuel."

Canning: Learn to safely preserve fruits, vegetables, and meats using water bath and pressure canning methods.

Dehydrating: Invest in a food dehydrator or use solar methods to dry fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

Fermentation: Master the art of making yogurt, cheese, and fermented vegetables for extended shelf life and probiotic benefits.

7. Cultivate a garden and learn foraging to supplement your food supply

"Gardening is addictive."

Start a garden: Begin with easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes, beans, and leafy greens. Utilize containers or small spaces if necessary.

Learn about local edible plants: Study field guides and take courses on identifying and safely harvesting wild edibles in your area.

Seed saving: Learn to save and store seeds from your garden to ensure a continuous supply of produce.

8. Establish a safe room and evacuation plan for various disaster scenarios

"Err always on the side of caution."

Safe room: Designate a secure space in your home for sheltering during storms or other emergencies. Stock it with:

• Water and non-perishable food
• First aid kit
• Battery-powered radio
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Blankets and warm clothing

Evacuation plan:

• Create a "go bag" for each family member
• Plan multiple evacuation routes
• Identify safe meeting places
• Practice your plan regularly

9. Learn to purify water and maintain sanitation during emergencies

"You court illness by drinking untreated water, however."

Water purification methods:

• Boiling (rolling boil for 1 minute)
• Chemical treatment (iodine or chlorine tablets)
• Filtration systems (portable or gravity-fed)

Sanitation:

• Store cleaning supplies and disinfectants
• Learn proper waste management techniques
• Maintain personal hygiene to prevent illness

10. Practice financial preparedness and reduce dependence on electronic systems

"Debt is an anchor holding you back from true independence and financial security."

Financial preparedness:

• Build an emergency fund
• Keep some cash on hand for when electronic systems fail
• Reduce or eliminate debt
• Diversify investments and savings

Reduce electronic dependence:

• Learn to use manual tools and appliances
• Keep physical copies of important documents
• Maintain a paper address book and map

Last updated: November 19, 2024