What to Do Before, During and After a Crisis

After everything we’ve experienced the past two years, I have a question. How could preparedness NOT be a top priority for every American?

I’m referring to a number of different events. Like the COVID-19 pandemic and extreme weather. Supply-chain problems and inflation. Political upheaval and civil unrest. 

Over and over again we’ve witnessed circumstances that have upended people’s lives. And eaten away at their finances. And caused plenty of concern for an uncertain future.

I think it’s highly unlikely things will improve. And we’ve learned that FEMA and other relief organizations can’t save us in an emergency. We need to become self-sufficient. Now.

Don’t wait; start (or continue) today

There’s no time like the present to get prepared for the future. As the Ready.gov website says, “Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today.”

See, the problems have become too great for government agencies. They try, but they’re short-staffed and spread too thin. They don’t have needed resources. And the help they’re able to offer often comes too late. 

They realize that. So they encourage individuals to do everything they can for themselves and their families to be prepared.

Whether you are experienced at prepping, a newcomer to the scene or somewhere in between, this information is for you. And at the end I’ll let you in on a great addition to your preparedness efforts.

The bare minimum checklist

Here’s what I would call a “bare bones” preparedness checklist.  

• A three-day supply of non-perishable food per person
• One gallon of drinking water per person per day
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank emergency weather radio
• First-aid kit, including prescription medications
• Plenty of extra clothing
• Sanitation and hygiene items
• Important family documents
• Pet food and other supplies
• Cash

It’s very likely you will need more survival food and more water. Plus water purification devices. And back-up power in the form of a solar-power generator and hand-held power packs. But we have to start somewhere.

Before, during and after

Here are some additional suggestions from FEMA for before, during and after a disaster. 

Before – Know the risks and danger signs. Purchase insurance, including flood insurance. Develop a family action plan. Assemble a disaster supply kit. Volunteer to help others. 

During – Put your plan into action. Help others. Follow the advice and guidance of officials in charge.

After – Watch out for damage near your home, including downed wires. Repair your damaged property. Take steps to prevent or reduce future loss.

Peace of mind is priceless

The physical benefits of preparedness are obvious. Anytime you want you can see your survival food stockpile. You can hold your water purification devices in your hands. You can move your portable solar-powered generator into any room. 

The emotional benefits of preparedness are not as clear. But they’re just as real. Realizing you have adequate supplies to keep your family and yourself safe in an emergency instills confidence.

Knowing exactly what you and family members will do when a crisis occurs helps reduce fear of the unknown. And gives you peace of mind.

Taking steps to protect your home against intruders who may come calling after the stuff hits the fan reduces anxiety.      

4Patriots 4-Week Survival Food Kit

As I mentioned above, you will probably need more than a 72-hour supply of shelf-stable food for an emergency. That’s why I’m recommending the 4Patriots 4-Week Survival Food Kit.

With more food and variety than ever before, this Kit features 196 servings. Delicious and nutritious, it includes food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even dessert. Not to mention real milk.

Among the tasty items in this Kit are Buttermilk Pancake Mix, America’s Finest Mac & Cheese, Frank’s Favorite Alfredo and Old Fashioned Vanilla Pudding. With proper storage, your food will be good for up to 25 years. In other words, it will be there when you need it most… whether that’s next week or years from now.

As with our other Survival Food Kits, your food is protected in triple-layer Mylar pouches. Each pouch is cold-sealed to keep damaging heat away from your food. And once you’re ready to enjoy it, it couldn’t be simpler to prepare. Just boil, simmer and serve.

>> Claim your 4-Week Food Kit here