Preparedness 101 – 10 Tips to Get You Started

You don’t need a crisis to get prepared...

Just a quiet moment, like this one, to take the first step.

Because while most folks are putting things off until “later”… later often becomes too late.

That’s why I put together a simple guide to help you get moving — even if you’re starting from scratch. It’s called Preparedness 101, and inside are 10 quick-start tips that will give you peace of mind and a real sense of control over the unknown.

Let’s dive in…

1. Set Your Preparedness Goals

Think big picture. How much food and water would give you peace of mind? What emergencies do you want to be ready for a year from now? Start with general goals — specifics come later.

2. Build a Basic Emergency Kit

Start small, but smart. One kit for the family. Then one for each person. Add extras for your car and workplace. Make sure it’s grab-and-go ready.

3. Prepare for Local Threats

Tailor your plan to your region. Hurricanes in the Southeast, wildfires in the West, snowstorms in the North. Know what’s likely, and prep accordingly.

4. Create a Family Plan

Who does what in an emergency? Where do you meet? How do you communicate? Write it down. Practice it. Everyone needs to know the drill.

5. Stock a Shelf-Stable Pantry

Freeze-dried foods for long-term. Canned goods for short-term. Clean water is a must — and so is a way to purify more. Don’t forget flashlights, batteries, power banks, and first aid.

6. Prep on a Budget

You don’t need millions. Buy in bulk, use coupons, shop sales. Focus on value and essentials. Check garage sales for hidden gems.

7. Take a Monthly Challenge

Break your plan into 12 mini-goals. One month focus on food. Another on water. Then backup power, shelter, and so on. Keeps you moving forward, without overwhelm.

8. Digitize Your Documents

Snap photos of important paperwork — insurance, IDs, mortgage, etc. Save them to the cloud. Store originals in a fireproof safe. You’ll thank yourself later.

9. Ignore Common Prep Myths

“No, 911 isn’t always available.”

“Yes, prepping can be affordable.”

And no — the “5-second rule” won’t save you from germs.

10. Adopt a Preparedness Mindset

Preparedness is a way of thinking. It’s not fear-based — it’s freedom-based. Being proactive puts you ahead of the chaos. It’s not just about stuff… it’s about confidence.

Ready to level up fast?

Watch this short video from former Navy SEAL Cade Courtley: The 3 Most Common Preparedness Mistakes & How to Avoid Them.