6 Emergency Preparedness Home Defense Gedqyp 2

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Table Of Contents:

Introduction ............................................................. 4
What’s a Prepper and Why We Prepare .......................................................... 4
Why You Need to Get Ready Today for Emergency Situations................. 5

Chapter 1: The Foundations of Emergency


Preparedness ............................................................ 9
Basic Emergency Preps ...................................................................................... 9
Getting Started .................................................................................................. 11
How to Survive the Worst Scenario: Different Scenario, Different
Preparation ......................................................................................................... 11

Chapter 2: Strategy and Planning for Preppers ..... 15


Prepping Using Everyday Items ..................................................................... 15
Bagging Out ....................................................................................................... 18
Bagging In .......................................................................................................... 18

Chapter 3: Emergency Department/Minor Surgery


................................................................................ 19
The Importance of Always Having a Kit Ready for Emergencies............ 19
Survival First-Aid Kit ....................................................................................... 19
Medical Emergency Survival Guide ............................................................... 25
First-Aid Tips in Different Emergency Situations....................................... 30

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Essential Survival Equipment You Should Always Have Prepared.......... 32

Skills Everyone Should Learn ......................................................................... 37


Tips on How to Treat the Wounded ............................................................. 43
How to Treat the Wounded, How to Prevent Infection ............................ 44

Chapter 4: How to Create Your Map When the


Internet Is Down .................................................... 49
Learn How to Use a Compass ........................................................................ 49
Using a Map ....................................................................................................... 49

Chapter 5: Home Defense ..................................... 51


Be Prepared to Defend Your Family ............................................................. 51
Perimeter Defense ............................................................................................ 52

Make Your Home Safe..................................................................................... 55

Conclusion ............................................................. 62

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Introduction

The world is changing faster and faster, and hopes are not promising.

What’s a Prepper and Why We Prepare


More and more of us are now preparing for the end of the world, there are many fears out
there, and even though they are arguably unfounded, we must be ready for what is coming.
Adam Miller’s life is much like that of any other middle-class citizen. He worked as a
computer programmer at an investment bank in Chicago and traveled by train every day
from the suburbs. His wife, Trish, works part-time as a physical therapist and takes their
2 teenage daughters to sports and music lessons.
However, the Millers (who asked not to be identified) had other interests that only their
family and a small group of friends knew about.
Tracey also spends a lot of time stockpiling food and other supplies. Every week she
sundries and cans a lot of meat and produce, and she also buys large containers of non-
perishable food to store in the basement. He also stores first aid supplies, personal hygiene
items, water, batteries, charcoal, and matches.
The Millers are close to having enough stockpiled for 1 year.
Jeff is not lagging. He has been busy installing security cameras, tempered glass windows,
solar panels, an indoor hydroponic greenhouse, and electric fencing around the property;
he also bought pistols and rifles for himself, his wife, and his children and ensured they
had weekly target practice. "You have to be prepared to protect yourself and your
belongings from theft," he said.
The couple recently bought land in Wisconsin and built a subway bunker-their shelter if
they needed to survive any temporary threats or permanently abandon their home. There
they had extra supplies of food, water, weapons, and ammunition, but only their family
members knew where it was. "We don't have room for anyone else, so we don't want
someone knocking on the door when everything starts to fall apart," Geoff said.

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The Miller family is part of the Prepper movement: people who prepare to survive because
they believe a major disaster or emergency is about to occur or even end society as we
know it.
Like the Millers, many preppers prefer to keep their preps private, so we can only estimate
how many. Tom Martin, the founder of the American Preppers Network, believes there
are 3 to 5 million preppers in the U.S. alone and millions more worldwide. “This
movement is a worldwide trend, growing,” he said. “Wherever there has been a natural
disaster, people are more prepared.”
A good indicator of the intensity of the exercise is the companies and websites that have
sprung up in response to preppers’ needs and their rapid growth. One reports that its
revenues have grown by 708% in the last 3 years alone, while the other is building shelters
and bunkers fairly quickly.
There are thousands of survivalist blogs and websites and dozens of magazines on the
subject. In addition, television is making its way through shows like National Geographic’s
Doomsday Preppers, each of which features a new family of Preppers, and Discovery
Channel’s Doomsday Bunker, which is dedicated to tracking a company that builds a safe
bunker.

Why You Need to Get Ready Today for


Emergency Situations
However, the movement is not entirely new. There will always be some (often socially
unadapted) people who fear and prepare for an apocalyptic scenario. The difference is that
now the sport has become fashionable. Today there are preppers of all ages, genders, and
socioeconomic levels.
The attack on the Twin Towers is the major event that sparked the interest that had
subsided since the 1970s, with disasters like Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy or the Ebola
and COVID outbreak having given it more impetus. Every time there is an epidemic or
natural disaster globally, this trend increases.

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Although your preppers may have different levels of motivation and intensity, most
preppers belong to one of two groups. The first are those preparing for some regional
natural or manufactured disaster focused on “getting through it” until things return to
normal.
The second is preparing for a devastating catastrophe that will end the entire world as we
know it. These are called “preparing for the end of the world.” They believe that our planet
will soon be devastated by a major disaster that will change everything: perhaps an
economic collapse, the use of weapons of mass destruction (nuclear, chemical, or
biological), a global and incurable epidemic, electromagnetic pulses affecting asteroids or
comets, or solar flares or nuclear explosions will disable all electrical appliances.
Pandemics
Pandemics are another problem we have just around the corner, and the world is still
seeing the impact and fear of new viruses emerging and rare diseases surfacing.
There is no doubt that we live in an increasingly uncertain and dangerous world. And, in
a world like ours, it makes sense to have some emergency supplies in case of natural
disasters, extreme weather, power outages, etc. It is always wise to prepare for difficult
times.
Famine
Famine is becoming more palpable every day; if you look at the statistics, there are
questionable numbers, but they all have scary numbers. If you compare it to previous
years, hunger is more, and hunger increases when there are adverse situations; for example,
the 2020 pandemic is a clear example of how many poor people went hungrier while there
was confinement.
We have to prepare for hunger.
The Collapse of Economy
Economic collapse means the collapse of the world economy. It is characterized by a
prolonged slowdown in economic activity, increased poverty, and social disorder
(including protests, strikes, and possible violence).

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The economy is becoming more complex every day. More money is being printed, stock
markets are falling, recovering but going down, and inflation is announced in the coming
years. In short, it does not bode well, so get ready.
Strange Occurrences
We cannot explain many events, but they happen; the news ridicules them and places them
in curious information, but it is not given the place it deserves.
Whether they are ufological themes, disappearances of animals and people, and facts that
do not have the footage in the media, we have to open our eyes to them.
Electromagnetic Energy Pulse
Electricity may go out at some point; it is something that we hear about a lot. It has been
said that terrible blackouts are coming that we don't know when they will return. It is
unknown when it will happen and how it will go away, but there is that reality.
When the internet goes, the internet, banking, everything will go, we will be left looking
to the side, and if we are not prepared, we will not be able to eat.
Terrorism and War
Not to mention wars, I do not remember when was the last time the world was not at war;
one ends, and another begins, there have been several at the same time, and all of them
have justification, egos, and hidden interests. No doubt, an atomic bomb one day can turn
the world upside down.
Climate Change and Natural Disasters
Natural disasters happen all the time, with volcanoes exploding, wiping out cities,
earthquakes, tsunamis, displacements, and fires. If you watch the news right now,
something is happening.
Technological Risks
Electricity can go, but there are also other technological risks where we are invaded by
these or a big blackout, which can isolate us because, sadly, every day, we depend more
and more on technology.
The Spread of Disease and Increased Panic
Diseases like the one that happened in 2020 seem to be the fashionable evil of this stage
of history, it is going to happen, and we have to arm ourselves. Children, adults, the elderly,

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diseases attacking them, and the news put it as a fact. Diseases will isolate us more and
more, and when we realize it, we will be without forecasts.
Biological Weapons
Biological weapons are more and more terrifying every day. Imagine that in the forties of
the last century, a couple of bombs were dropped with terrible consequences. With the
advances in technology, these weapons must be even more destructive. If we are lucky
enough to survive, we have to take action to survive while everything subsides.

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Chapter 1: The Foundations of Emergency
Preparedness

Here’s what you need to prepare to survive in emergency times.

Basic Emergency Preps


To prepare your kit, store items in a zip-top plastic bag and put your entire disaster kit in
one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as a plastic box or duffel bag.
Your basic emergency kit can include the following recommended items:
● One gallon of water per person; this is for each day, for drinking and cleaning up.
● Food: have non-perishable food for at least three days.
● A battery-powered or hand-crank radio lets you know what is happening around
you. Also a weather radio.
● Flashlights
● First aid kit
● Spare batteries
● Whistle for you to call for help.
● Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and a tarp to make your shelter.
● Moist towelettes, plastic seals, and garbage bags for cleanup.
● Wrenches or pliers for you to cut and work with.
● Manual can opener
● Site maps and compass.
● Cell phones, chargers, and spare batteries.
Also, keep in mind to put these emergency items, all according to the needs you have:
● Cloth face coverings (for everyone over 2 years old), hand sanitizer, soap, and
disinfectant wipes to disinfect surfaces.
● Prescription Medications
● Over-the-counter, anti-diarrheal, pain reliever, antacid or laxative
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● Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solutions
● Infant formula, bottles, wipes, diaper rash ointment diapers,
● Provide your pet with extra food and water
● Cash or traveler’s checks
● Copies of important household documents, such as insurance policies,
identification cards, and bank account records, should be stored electronically or in
a portable waterproof container.
● One sleeping bag or warm blanket per person.
● Complete change of weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
● Fire extinguisher
● Match in a waterproof container
● Personal and feminine hygiene products
● Cooking utensils, paper cups and plates, paper towels, and plastic utensils
● Paper and pencils
● Books, games, puzzles, or other children's activities
You also need to maintain this kit.
Once you have your kit ready, remember to maintain your supplies regularly so they are
ready when you need them:
● Keep canned foods in cool, dry places.
● Store food in plastic or metal boxes that are tightly closed.
● Replace expiring products with new ones.
● Each year consider your family’s new needs and update the kit.

Places to Store the Kit


Since you don't know where you'll be in case of an emergency, keep your supply kits
together for storage at home, at work, and in your vehicle.
● Home: Keep this kit in a designated place if you need to leave home quickly. Make
sure all family members know where the kit is stored.

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● Work: Be prepared to shelter in place for at least 24 hours. Your work bag should
include food, water, medications, other essentials, and comfortable walking shoes
stored in a "ready to go" box.
● Vehicle: If you get stuck on the road, have an emergency kit in the car.

Getting Started
Getting into action is the best way to start getting your kit and what you need to protect
yourself.

How to Survive the Worst Scenario: Different


Scenario, Different Preparation
I will put you through different scenarios and how to act.

Earthquake
In many situations, you can protect yourself almost immediately:
● Drop to the ground on your hands and knees before the earthquake knocks you
down. This position prevents you from falling but allows you to move if you need
to.
● Hide under a sturdy table and cover your head and neck (and your whole body if
possible); if you are not near a safe place, crouch near an interior wall or low piece
of furniture that cannot fall on you, and cover your head and neck with your arms
and hands.
● Hold your head or neck until the shaking stops. Be prepared to move to shelter if
the shaking moves you away from where you are.
● If you are inside, stay inside.
● Do not leave your home or run to other rooms during an earthquake. If you stay
still, you reduce the chance of injury.
To reduce the chance of injury, do the following:

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● If possible, you move quickly away from glassware, hanging objects, shelves, display
cases, or other large furniture that could fall on you and injure you. Watch out for
falling objects, such as fireplace tiles and ducts, light fixtures, upholstery, high
shelves, and cabinets with doors that open.
● If objects are nearby, you use them to protect your head and face from falling debris
and broken glass.
● If you have turned on the stove in the kitchen, you quickly turn it off and take cover
as soon as you feel the shaking.
● You wait there and protect your head with a pillow if you’re in bed. If you stay still,
you reduce the chance of injury. Broken glass on the floor can hurt you if you walk
or lie on the floor.
● Don't stand under the door frame. It will be safer to stand under the table. Door
frames in modern homes are no stronger than the rest of the house and will not
protect you from the most likely injuries, falling, or hitting objects. Most
earthquake-related casualties are caused by falling or dropped objects (such as
televisions, lights, glass, or shelves) or hitting the floor.

Hurricanes
● You should be aware of the designated hurricane evacuation routes in your
community.
● If authorities order an evacuation, always follow instructions.
● Stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors. Take shelter in a windowless
room on the lowest floor with no risk of flooding.
● Avoid enclosed attics as floodwaters may trap you.
● Do not walk in floodwater, as 6 inches of rushing water can cause you to fall.
● Don’t try to drive on flooded streets or roads, as a foot of rushing water could wash
away your car.
● Build a storm shelter in your home.
What should you do during a hurricane?

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● Fill tubs and buckets with water in case the water supply is interrupted.
● Set refrigerators and freezers on the coldest setting in case of a power outage or if
you need to turn off the electricity.
● Stay indoors until local authorities tell you the storm has passed.
● Avoid bathing or showering during storms and watch for lightning.
● Use your portable radio to stay informed of important storm updates.
● Keep a hurricane survival kit on hand because it can provide you with the essentials
you need if you find yourself without help for several days.
● Always keep your pet’s needs in mind when organizing your survival kit.

Atomic Bomb
Russia is by far the country with the most nuclear warheads on Earth: there are 1,500 to
be dismantled and 4,477 still available. This reality raised the percentage of Google
searches for the term “nuclear attack” for information on the consequences for humanity
of an attack of this caliber.
I want to give you tips on how to survive:
● You should protect yourself in brick, concrete, or subway buildings, even miles
above the ground.
● Avoid looking at flashlights or fire bags as they can blind you. About 35% of the
energy from a nuclear explosion is released as thermal radiation.
● You stay where you are, even if you are separated from your family.
● If you are outdoors during the event, seek shelter as soon as possible.
● You should take off your clothes, put them in a plastic bag, seal them, and be away
from living things.
● Shower with soap and water whenever possible, without rubbing or scratching your
skin.
● Do not use conditioner as it binds radioactive substances to the hair.
● If you cannot shower, use a clean towel to clean the skin, including eyelids, ears,
and eyelashes.

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● Gently wipe the nose.
These are symptoms of radiation exposure:
● Vomiting.
● Nausea.
● Weakness in the body. Skin ulcers that turn gray.

Volcanoes
In case a volcano explodes, you have to:
● Stay away from them.
● Have an evacuation plan practiced with your family.
● Evacuate following the advice of the authorities
● Avoid river areas and low-lying regions.
These are some recommendations that you can join with the rest of the content we have
yet to explore.

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Chapter 2: Strategy and Planning for
Preppers

These are the first steps you need to take to become a prepper.

Prepping Using Everyday Items


The location and date of the earthquake, for example, cannot currently be predicted. How
can you protect your child from this natural phenomenon?
The event should always be explained in a language the child can understand. As parents,
we must recognize which elements of this catastrophe lead to fear.
The perceived responses of their parents largely determine children’s responses. How do
we want our children to remain calm if we, as parents, tell them that we are on the verge
of a nervous breakdown? We admit that it’s not bad to worry about, but we also need to
show them that we can deal with it.
In a publication, the American Red Cross said, “Parents should recognize their children’s
fears (from their imagination or fantasies) and distinguish them from fears inspired by real
events. Children don’t know how to describe anxiety. Although the fear is strong, they
cannot give a reasonable explanation.
They are so dependent on the love, care, and security they receive from adults that they
fear losing their parents or feeling more abandoned. Even children who are usually capable
and courageous are fearful and anxious about any event that threatens their families.
Parents need to understand that their intervention can help reduce fear and prevent more
serious problems from developing.
Age is another critical factor; the younger the child, the more fearful they are. A six-year-
old may cry, fear, and seek out their parents, while an adolescent may be indifferent to the
fact.

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Parents want to know how to talk about this topic with their children: How much of a
tremor or catastrophe should I talk about? Should I give you advice? Should I go deeper,
or will I scare him?
I suggest you talk to your child about this, even if you think he is small and does not realize
what happened, but it is not so. The child feels and realizes more than you think, then you
have to explain to him that there are many probabilities and the fragility that we have is
very high.
After explaining the situation to them, it was convenient to let them express their fear, ask
them how they felt at that moment (fear, anger, sadness, panic), what exactly was their
fear, clarify it, reassure them, calm them, reassure them, and take care of them forever.
Be honest with the answers, and don’t lie by trying to leave them alone.
Instead of dramatizing, try to tell children the possibilities, especially older children, what
to do in these situations.
It is said that talking to children should be educational; you should talk about how to do
it and talk about prevention.
It is important to teach children how to act in this type of situation and give them the
tools to know how to prevent it. Several studies have shown that fear diminishes, and
emergencies can be handled more effectively if we have basic preventive tools. If we teach
it to our children, it will give them control if they know it too.
Lack of preparedness can lead to certain indiscreet behaviors, resulting in property and
human damage.
Let them be the little preppers of the house; we do not have a bought life, and they could
be left on their own if we do not survive.

Prepare Your Family for When Disaster Strikes


Families need to have contingency plans. If children are involved, it is easier for them to
know how to act and calm down.
1. Work together to find evacuation routes and meeting points for all household
residents.
2. Find out what objects may be dangerous to drop in a disaster.

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3. Find the safest place in our home so we know where we are in the event of an
earthquake. Try to practice the drill at least once (this will help the whole family get
a good idea of contingency planning).
4. Especially young children, try to educate them before the event. Tell them the best
place to be in case of an earthquake and explain that they will always have parental
support.
It would help if you taught them to stay safe, know how to open food, and canned food,
preserve, make good use of water, make the most of the bunker, and even teach the older
ones about first aid. In a catastrophe, they could heal themselves or us.

Survival Strategies
Learning about survival strategies is that the finger does the least amount of force.
You have to learn about emergency windows. Here are some tips for survival strategies.
If you had to break the window of a car, bus, or another vehicle due to an accident, don't
try to break it in half.
These windows are usually made of tempered glass with more fragile edges. That’s where
you should strike.
Beware of Chemical Burns
The mistake many people make when applying abrasive products to the skin is thinking
that their burns are the same as fire burns.
In many cases, chemical burns produce pain slowly but have already started. And water is
usually not a good way to remove the product.

Emergency Call Without Coverage


If you have to make an emergency call and your phone has no coverage in the area, don’t
worry; just make a call. Try or find someone to help you.

Request for Help

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If you are injured and need help, and you see several people nearby, generally do not call
for help in this way. Most people will rely on others to help but will not act.
Go to a specific person and only ask that person for help. They will be involved and help
you (or so it is hoped).

Deep Wound
Do not remove sharp objects if a knife, glass, arrow, stick, etc., has caused a large, deep
wound.

Bagging Out
There are dangers that you see evident near you and the most viable option is that you
move away from them. Otherwise, you will die; for example, if you face a fire caused by
some catastrophe, you have to run in the opposite direction to avoid incinerating. So as
far as possible, you have to run.

Bagging In
Linked to the previous point, sometimes there are dangers that you have to face because
they are the only way out. For example, that fire you want to get away from happens on a
second floor, and the only way out you have is to jump out the window. Unfortunately,
you have to run into danger to avoid being burned to death.
It’s all about evaluation and choosing what is the least bad for you.

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Chapter 3: Emergency Department/Minor
Surgery

The Importance of Always Having a Kit Ready


for Emergencies
In the event of an emergency, it's best to be prepared. That way, you won't have to carry
a heavy bag of essentials or spend valuable time digging through drawers and closets trying
to find anything that could be used. Also, keep in mind that if you are outdoors, you will
need items like a knife, sunscreen, bug spray, a raincoat, and waterproof matches for
emergencies.
A good kit should include bandages and first-aid items for cuts and scrapes, tweezers for
removing splinters (and ticks), a thermometer, pain relievers, antiseptic towelettes, and
anything else you think you might need. Don't forget to pack extra medication that you
take daily. It is also important to pack non-perishable food items in case you need
sustenance quickly.
Make sure the kit is properly stored in an easy-to-carry container. If possible, store it where
you can grab it, and go in an emergency, such as right by the front door or near the bedside
table.

Survival First-Aid Kit


A well-stocked first-aid kit can be the difference between life and death. In a survival
situation, an injured person may have to wait hours or days for help—and with a severe
injury, you may not have any help at all. You want your first-aid kit to give you the best
chance of successfully treating injuries and illnesses until professional medical help arrives.

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With an adequate supply of medicines, bandages, and sterilizing tools, you can take care
of yourself and help those around you when you don't have access to medical facilities.
Don't go by what you see in first aid kits in local stores.

Sutures and Sterilizing Materials


For most emergencies, sutures are not needed, but they should be included if you have
room in your kit. They are used to close cuts and lacerations, as well as for internal
bleeding. For thread, use dental floss since it is strong and already waxed at the ends.
Alcohol-based antiseptic can be used before stitching incisions together to disinfect the
wound from bacteria and other germs.
Tape is suitable for holding sutures in place, but duct tape may be more practical, especially
if you have a larger wound. For butterfly bandages, buy the Steri-Strips instead of the
traditional kind as it seals wounds better and heals faster. If you have a Mylar blanket or
any other metallic or reflective material, you can use it to reflect sunlight on the damage
for a faster healing time.
Antibiotic ointments, such as Neosporin, can be used to apply to wounds to prevent
infection. Chlorhexidine antiseptic should also be included since its use will prevent
disease and keep bacteria from spreading under the stitches or bandaging.

Infection Control
Antibacterial hand wipes should be used to disinfect hands before touching any wounds.
You don't want to spread bacteria around and cause an infection, so avoid using public
restrooms. You can also use sanitizer gel or spray on your hands before touching anything.
A total body cleansing station with lancets, alcohol swabs, alcohol wipes, a thermometer
for checking body temperature, and a thermometer tape measure would be suitable for
assisting in the primary care of wounds.
A portable foot bath can be used to clean wounds and disinfect foot ulcers. It is suitable
for cleaning, but it does not have any antibacterial agent, so the damage will still get
infected.

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Any medical tape or bandages can be used as long as the FDA approves them. Please
make sure they are latex-free and approved for use on human skin or wounds. You may
also want to choose a specific brand of medical tape since some may contain silicone - a
substance that may cause irritation or burning of your skin, especially when you don't
notice it immediately.

Bandages, Splints, and Slings


An emergency kit is a must-have for a home or car. But don't forget to replenish your
supplies every year!
A common misconception is that sterile gauze, bandages, slings, and splints are only used
in emergencies. However, these everyday items should be included in an emergency kit.
They can also be used as part of a daily routine in the medical field.
Bandages can limit swelling and stop bleeding by absorbing blood after an injury to the
area where they are applied. Slings help immobilize an injured limb while taking pressure
off the injured joint or spine nearby. Splints can help stabilize a broken limb or broken
bone until it is healing or has been set.

Items to Include in an Emergency Kit


Include the following items:
Gauze, slings, surgical tape, antibiotic ointment, alcohol swabs, butterfly bandages, gauze
pads, non-stick pads, or waterproof adhesive strips for minor cuts and scrapes. Cotton
swabs should be included as well for cleaning wounds after applying antibiotic ointment.
3x3 gauze dressings.
For home kits, it includes a large gauze pad to stop bleeding from significant wounds,
such as those that result from deep cuts and punctures. These are best used with a splint
to secure the gauze in place.
If you use band-aids for more than one day, you want to replace them with a new one
each day.
Wrap the gauze around the affected area gently with the ointment underneath for
protection against germs or bacteria. You can also apply non-stick pads after cleaning and

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removing debris from an injury to keep it clean and separate it from clothing or other
items during transport.
Pet slings are for dogs and cats that get into mischief. To aid in their mobility or prevent
pain while healing, they can be used with a small doggie bed or on top of your
grandmother's wheelchair.

Antiseptic Wipes and Bandages


Emergencies often require quick action, and sometimes store-bought supplies just aren't
cutting it. Fortunately, you have a lot of natural remedies at your disposal! Countless plants
worldwide have been used traditionally to disinfect wounds, fight infection, and prevent
illness. These are some of our favorites.

Antiseptic Wipes and Bandages for Emergencies


1. Jambu Air
Jambu air is a native tree from Indonesia used traditionally to heal wounds of all kinds. Its
leaves contain antiseptic compounds (including eugenol!) with anti-inflammatory,
astringent, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. You can apply these leaves directly onto
wounds or crush them up to make an infusion to apply to the injury.
Visitors to the island will also tell you a story of how this tree saved the life of a child who
a saltwater crocodile almost ate. The child could defend himself by hitting the crocodile
with a branch, but the sting of the branch's poison left him badly poisoned. A Jambu air
leaf was used for bathing the child's wounds, and he was able to recover.
2. Bark
The bark of the American sumac and related plants contains a natural compound
(submachine) that provides antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It's
known to be good at preventing infection when applied directly to wounds (traditional
Native American uses this treatment) but is also very effective when mixed with a bit of
alcohol to make a wound dressing.

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In a small pot, put 2-3 fresh or dried sumac branches in 1 cup (240 ml) of water. Cover
and allow to steep for 2-3 days, then strain. Add the strained liquid to a bandage or wound
pack.
3. Roots
Most roots are full of antioxidants, and many have anti-inflammatory properties. Sources
from the Queen's delight plant (Stillingia sylvatica) are traditionally used to improve
circulation and heal wounds. Apply these directly to the injury.
4. Leaves and Berries
The leaves and berries of various plants, particularly the common mulberry tree, have
antibacterial properties that make them helpful in treating skin infections. The leaves also
contain salicylic acid, which makes them effective at fighting pain caused by an open
wound!
Create an infusion:
In a small pot, steep 2-3 fresh or dried leaves in 1 cup (240 ml) of water for 1 hour. Strain
and add to a bandage or wound pack.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a great
addition to any first aid kit! It's beneficial for treating skin infections caused by bacteria
and fungus, as well as ear infections.
6. Plantain Leaf
Plantain leaves are traditionally used in North America to treat insect bites, stings, and
skin irritations like eczema. Fresh leaves are also used to treat common colds and can be
used as tea or made into an infusion that can be taken internally.
7. Aloe
Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to any
first aid kit! It's also helpful in helping wounds heal quickly, relieving pain, and treating
skin irritations (including sunburns and other forms of burns). If using the aloe as a topical
treatment, mix in some honey for extra soothing qualities.
8. Rice Bran Oil

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Rice bran oil contains fatty acids that are known to have anti-inflammatory effects on the
skin. It is also known to have a fungicidal effect, making it helpful in treating fungal
infections on the skin or nails.

9. Cloves
Cloves are part of the myrtle family and are known for their antiseptic and analgesic
properties. Clove oil can be mixed with toothpaste to relieve the pain of teething babies
and applied directly onto wounds (or put into a bandage or wound pack).
10. Tea
Most teas are helpful as topical treatments for wounds.
Stress tea (white tea, green tea, chamomile) has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
properties that make it great for encouraging wound healing and pain relief. It's also used
to relieve pressure on the throat and for its calming effects.
Chamomile contains compounds known as flavonoids that have antioxidant properties
that can help decrease tissue damage. Chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties also
mean it can help treat skin irritations or burns.
11. Soap Nuts
Soap nuts are dried fruits from trees in the Sapindaceae family that contain saponins,
which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Soak 10-15 soap nuts overnight in 2
cups (480 ml) of water, then use the liquid to wash wounds daily.
12. Baking Soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is an excellent topical disinfectant for wounds and other
scrapes and abrasions. Swab it multiple times per day to prevent infection. If the damage
does get infected, or any bacteria manage to enter your body through your open wound,
then you should see your doctor.
13. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is an excellent topical treatment for burns, skin irritations, and wounds. You can
drink aloe vera juice to promote digestion and increase energy levels or apply pure aloe
vera gel directly to wounds for faster healing.
14. Plantain

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This common weed is known for its anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties,
mainly when applied in combination with echinacea root tincture. Plantain also helps
relieve pain, blisters, swelling, and itching at an injury or wound site. To extract it, dig a
large hole and place the plant in its center. Dig out the plant with your hands, and then
rub the root against itself as much as possible. The plant is ready to eat when it splits open
into three parts.
15. Honey
Applying honey to wounds is an old-fashioned remedy that works wonders in healing
open wounds fast. For best results, use raw honey directly to the injury, or mix it with
another healing ointment like aloe vera gel for more optimal results.
16. Calendula
Calendula is a flower that can be turned into an infusion and taken internally to treat ulcers,
gastritis, and hemorrhoids. You can also apply the infusion directly to wounds or make a
salve of calendula and coconut oil to soothe skin irritations.
17. Chamomile
A chamomile compress helps treat inflammation of the skin, such as insect bites, stings,
rashes, and skin irritations caused by trauma or allergic reaction.
18. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is an anti-fungal treatment for athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch. It is
also effective on psoriasis, acne, warts, and various skin problems caused by dandruff.
According to Ayurvedic culture, melts are placed in oiled areas of the body as a mosquito
repellent when not used in cooking.

Medical Emergency Survival Guide


Panic can be as dangerous to our health as the conditions that cause it.
With the recent increase in medical emergencies and the ever-increasing complexity of
healthcare, it's never been more critical to have a plan.
Stay Calm: Panicking won't solve anything and will only make you weaker. Utilize your
resources: Ask for help! Find somebody who can communicate with doctors or nurses

25
and find out what you need to do. If no one is there, call an ambulance (or dial 911). Keep
breathing as deeply as possible to maintain oxygen levels in your body.
Panicking won't solve anything and will only make you weaker. Utilize your resources: Ask
for help! Find somebody who can communicate with doctors or nurses and find out what
you need to do. If no one is there, call an ambulance (or dial 911). Keep breathing as
deeply as possible to maintain oxygen levels in your body. Don't fight the needle: The ER
doctor knows precisely what they're doing, but try not to resist the IV insertion if you have
a vein. You can cause yourself too much trouble by fighting against it and perhaps
accidentally breaking it.
The ER doctor knows precisely what they're doing, but try not to resist the IV insertion
if you have a vein. You can cause yourself too much trouble by fighting against it and
perhaps accidentally breaking it. Don't be shy: Ask the first person you see if they can
help. If they're a patient, explain that your loved one was admitted to the ER with
suspected heart failure and ask them to notify their doctor. If a nurse is working, tell them
what's going on so they can call for help (if they're on-call).
Ask the first person you see if they can help. If they're a patient, explain that your loved
one was admitted to the ER with suspected heart failure and ask them to notify their
doctor. If a nurse is working, tell them what's going on so they can call for help (if they're
on-call). Know when to stop: Some medical emergencies are severe enough to warrant
calling an ambulance. If you're injured and conscious, you should get yourself to the
hospital. However, if you're severely hurt but unconscious, it may be more beneficial to
save yourself for the possibility of CPR or advanced life support— especially considering
that hospitals aren't always sure what level of care is necessary.
Some medical emergencies are severe enough to warrant calling an ambulance. If you're
injured and conscious, you should get yourself to the hospital. However, if you're severely
hurt but unconscious, it may be more beneficial to save yourself for the possibility of CPR
or advanced life support— especially considering that hospitals aren't always sure what
level of care is necessary. Remember to breathe: This seems obvious, but sometimes
people hyperventilate and pass out.

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This seems obvious, but sometimes people hyperventilate and pass out. Remember the
ABCs: Any minor injuries you sustain (i.e., cuts or bruises) should be cleaned and left open
to the air. Cover them with a clean cloth, pat them lightly to expand the clotting process,
and look for signs of infection. For severe lacerations, apply pressure to slow blood flow
until the bleeding stops. However, if there's a lot of blood, lift any nearby objects from
the ground and place them beneath the wound—this will help slow blood flow long
enough for you to get medical help.
Know your rights: "ER personnel is not trained in patient rights; they sometimes have
task forces or emergency room consultants whose only job is to instruct the ER personnel
on how to best handle a medical emergency."
If it's safe and possible, get someone else's attention who can help call an ambulance or
go for help.
Try to remember what the emergency is and write it down if you can. If your mental state
is impaired, try writing on your arm or hand with a marker—this will also make it easier
for paramedics if they need medical records later on. If you're at home, write down the
address.
Go to the nearest hospital or medical professional if you can safely do so. If there is a fire
or car accident, remember that you are more likely to be injured by trying to help others
than by walking away from a scary scene when there are already plenty of people on hand
who can help victims.
If possible, record any information about the emergency. If you are in a car accident and
the car is burning or you have a heart attack, write down who was driving and any details
such as where you live or where to start looking for other people injured or missing in
case they were involved.
Keep all this information in a safe place so that it can be easily accessed, if necessary,
ideally marked with your name and contact details, while also safely stored somewhere
that will protect it from damage.
Emergencies come at different times of day and night—try not to worry if you cannot get
to an emergency services phone number within the first few minutes.

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Knowing any medical conditions, you have can be helpful in a medical emergency. Have
your medications, allergies, and list of doctors ready to hand while keeping your
information up to date.
If you have any valuables, consider keeping them in safes in the home, stored in a bank
safe deposit box, or held at a friend's. If someone asks to look at your valuables, stick to
the standard "no" responses: I'm sorry, but I don't have time to let you rummage through
everything we own. What time is this? Do you know where my glasses are? If you're a
victim of crime, keep a list of the emergency contacts and the police station phone number
and the hours that they are usually open for business.
Always let them know where you are and check up on their progress by checking with
them later. If there is anyone there to help, ask if they are being given any instructions. Be
honest about your physical condition and any medical conditions so that they can make
an appropriate assessment of your needs or treatment.
After an emergency has finished, call the hospital or medical facility to let them know that
you have arrived safely. Do not be offended if they ask why you were not there earlier.
Don't wait for someone to look for you as they may need more information than you can
give at the time. It's best not to leave your name. If this is not possible, call to check with
them later on.
If you have been injured, try to keep a clear head and assess the severity of your injuries.
If possible, write down what happened afterward while still fresh in your memory because
this will help the police or hospital staff when they ask for details. Try to stay calm—
panicking will only make you feel worse, and it's more likely that you'll injure yourself
further.
Please don't wait for them to find you. If you're a victim of a crime, call the police as soon
as possible.
If it is safe enough, take photos of any damage that has been done and write down details
about what happened while it's still fresh in your mind.
Once first responders have arrived, try to stay with them until they have finished helping.
Don't leave the scene at this time – you could be in danger.

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If you have been severely injured and clean sheets and blankets, consider using them to
help stem the bleeding until help arrives. Make sure that they are alcohol-free, though,
because rubbing alcohol can cause more damage.
If you've been injured or arrested, try to keep a clear head and remember what happened.
Try to track down any witnesses and their contact details. Assess the severity of your
injuries and if there are any medical conditions that you have, make sure that they are
aware of them. If you have suffered property damage, get photos of it afterward (the more,
the better).
It's not something we ever want to think about, but it's always a possibility. Being prepared
for a medical emergency can be the difference between life and death. Today, we're going
to talk about what you can do to improve your chances of surviving a medical emergency.
Let’s get started!
Stay calm - being unsure or worried only widens your stress response system, which will
deplete more energy from your body faster than it normally would during an emergency.
Take deep breaths while you attempt to assess the situation, and don't forget to think
clearly!
When trying to treat an injury on your own, remember that every situation is different
depending on what type of injury it is. If you're injured, it's important to stay still and as
comfortable as possible. If you are injured, make sure that you're treating the injuries
appropriately—if the damage is severe enough that it could cause death, then you should
seek medical attention immediately.
Once an injury has been treated, try packing the wound to prevent further contamination
or infection. By plugging the damage, you're effectively stopping any water from entering
the wound. If you leave the wound open, water can enter and cause an infection to grow
in there. This could then lead to secondary infections and further damage.
If you should be injured while transported in a vehicle, get out immediately when it's safe
to do so (if that's possible). If possible, try to sit up or move away from the vehicle as
quickly as possible while still moving. This is similar to the old saying about stopping, then
stepping away from a car after an accident. Depending on what you were injured by, it
could be more beneficial to sit up or move away from the vehicle, but you need to use

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your judgment in that situation. And if you're in a medical emergency, then you should
grab your kit and be prepared to treat yourself or your patient.

First-Aid Tips in Different Emergency


Situations
A first-aid kit is an excellent tool to have on hand, but it's not always the best solution.
That's because there are many types and degrees of emergencies, from minor scrapes and
sprains to life-threatening accidents and disasters. In some cases, you need more than just
first aid; you may also need to evacuate!
1. Choking Incident
If someone chokes on an object, begin by asking them what they are blocking and then
try using the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the object from their airway. If this doesn't
work or the person becomes unconscious, call 911 immediately.
2. Heart Attack
Once they arrive, emergency responders will give the person oxygen and perform CPR if
necessary. They may also administer medications to dissolve a blood clot or open up the
arteries that are causing trouble.
3. Shock
It can lead to severe complications, so it's essential to treat it right away. If someone is in
shock, try taking a blood pressure reading. If their BP is low, begin administering warm
liquids intravenously. Then, keep the patient as calm as possible to help prevent a seizure
or cardiac arrest.
4. Dehydration
Dehydration happens when a person's body loses more fluids than it can replace, and
minerals are lost as well. If this occurs, call 911 and bring emergency medical services to
give the person IV fluids and check for any severe injuries. Then ask them to make sure
they drink plenty of water or other fluids through an intravenous drip until they feel better.
5. Burns

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If a person suffers from a burn, immediately call 911 and attempt to help stop the burning
process. If the person cannot stop burning or chemical exposure, remove all contaminated
clothing and gently flush the burn with running water until it stops steaming. Then, cover
it with a clean bandage and follow all other instructions from emergency responders.
6. Seizures
If someone has an epileptic seizure, try to make sure they are safe during their episode and
wait for them to finish shaking or convulsing. Then, check their breathing and pulse rate,
which should be regular after the seizure subsides. If they are injured or still having trouble
breathing, call 911, and an emergency medical technician will administer first aid until a
doctor arrives.
7. Fall
If a person has fallen and has possible broken bones or other injuries, remove any clothing
that could restrict their movement. Then, move them onto a flat surface as gently as
possible while applying pressure to any open wounds. If the person is awake and
responsive, ask if they have any pain in their neck and back. If so, gently apply pressure
on both sides of these areas and have them wiggle their toes to check for numbness.
Finally, if there is any swelling or discoloration around the joints, gently shift the joint to
test it out.
8. Burns
If a person suffers from severe burns, make sure the area is safe and call 911. Then,
carefully remove any clothing or jewelry that is stuck to the burn. If there are any chemicals
on the burn, flush the area with lots of water until it stops burning. Afterward, cover the
burn with a clean bandage to keep it from getting infected. Don't apply creams or lotions,
and avoid lifting anything heavy on top of the burned area for at least 24 hours afterward.
9. Diabetic Shock
If someone has diabetic shock, go to the hospital immediately. Then, check their airway
and breathing and pay attention to their mental state. If possible, take their blood sugar
levels every few minutes to see if it improves and keeps them as hydrated as possible.
Next, call 911 when you arrive at the hospital. Once there, emergency responders will give

31
the person oxygen to increase their oxygen intake. They may also administer medications
like insulin and intravenous fluids until they stabilize.
10. Choking
If someone is choking on food or another object, generally, it's best to stay calm and not
panic. Then, administer the Heimlich maneuver using a fist to their abdomen. If this
doesn't work, call 911 and inform them that the person is choking. The dispatcher will tell
you how to perform CPR if this becomes necessary during the wait for emergency
responders.
So, what should you do in any given emergency? It depends on several factors, like the
severity of the injury and the situation. Armed with that knowledge, you can follow these
tips to act appropriately:

Essential Survival Equipment You Should


Always Have Prepared
It makes sense to be prepared in case of an emergency. Having essential survival
equipment at the ready can help you survive, if not thrive, in any given situation.

Paracord
Paracord is a lightweight cord that's great for all sorts of uses, including binding objects
together, making clothes, or rescuing people from dangerous situations. You need
paracord if you want to be appropriately equipped to deal with any potential problem that
comes up. Paracord is available in many colors and lengths, so take your pick!

Knife
While it's not true that bad guys only come out at night, a knife still offers some level of
protection during the day or night as well as when no lousy guy is present. It would help
if you had a Swiss Army knife (or other multi-tool) that you could always depend on while
traveling and camping.
While an air horn isn't exactly survival equipment, it's still something that can save your
life.
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Water Filter
Water is key to living, and if you can't drink from natural water sources, you will need
some way to purify the water yourself. A water filter is one of the best ways to foolproof
your water source and ensures that it's safe for drinking. Handy if you end up in a place
with polluted water and great for purifying natural water sources.
Portable Cell Phone Charger
Cell phones are great when they're charged but not so great when running out of power.
Seasonal Clothing
This is especially important if you're going to be outside during any kind of season change.
When the temperature drops, you need to dress appropriately, or else you'll freeze to
death. If the temperature rises, you need to shed your layers or overheat and risk heat
stroke.
Hatchet
While not quite as versatile as a knife, the hatchet is still a great survival tool for reasons
such as chopping wood, making shelter, and starting fires. If you don't have a hatchet,
then the next best thing is a good multi-tool.
Fire Starter
You can build a fire using wood, and once your fire is going, then it's time to use it for
cooking, heating, etc, and an excellent way to start up a fire is with flint/steel, which makes
ferrocerium a superb choice for your survival gear.
Paracord Bracelets
These bracelets are great for holding things together that are likely going to come loose or
where they'll get caught on other objects. Paracord is great for these purposes because it's
lightweight and highly versatile.
Survival Blanket or Sleeping Bag
This seems like something that should be obvious, but when it comes to camping, you
may forget about having a sleeping bag until the night comes. A survival blanket is an
excellent way to stay dry on a wet night and can serve as protection against insects or
animals if there's anything at all outside. You also don't have to pack a sleeping bag if you
get caught during your travels, in which case you'll be forced to do so.

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Folding Shovel
While not precisely survival gear, this is still another handy tool for redirecting water,
digging holes, etc, that you should consider. You may also not carry a standard shovel, but
if you can, then go for it.
Food
This is extremely important, and if you're stranded, lost, hurt, or otherwise in a bad
situation, then food will help you survive. Always bring enough food to last for however
long your trip is planned to stay, plus some extra for emergencies such as being caught in
the rain. Remember that your survival food needs to be light and easy to carry, so keep
the amount of food at a minimum.
Water Bottle will help prevent dehydration and allow you to drink on the go.
A Good Map and Compass
Being able to know where you are is extremely important, especially if help is on the way
or if you're trying to navigate your way back home. If you're hiking, make sure that you
have both a good map and compass because one without the other can considerably slow
down your progress.
Energy Bars
These are a great way to gain the energy needed to hike back home if you become lost.
Not only that, but they're also pretty tasty to eat.
Credit Card and Cash
Although I believe in using cash for most purchases, I tend to carry at least some credit
cards for emergencies.
Flashlight and Extra Batteries
If things go dark, then a flashlight will immensely help when lighting up dark areas.
Pen and Paper
To note down important things such as where the person is going or why they went
somewhere. A pen and paper make excellent tools for writing notes for yourself or a loved
one.
Whistle

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This is a great way to get help if you're trying to call for assistance when lost. Ensure that
you pack a whistle with a solid sound to attract as many people as possible.
A water bottle
It's easy to forget things in your pack, but if you're stuck lost, a water bottle is a must.
Staying hydrated is essential, too, and you'll want to keep as well-hydrated as possible to
avoid dehydration. If, for some reason, you've forgotten your water bottle, make sure that
you bring along another way to stay hydrated without having to stop and drink too much
Food and Snacks
Even though you might not be hungry or have much energy once you're lost, food will
help. Ensure that you pack enough food such that you won't have to go out looking for
food or risk getting hurt if hunger strikes at night.
Clothing
You'll want to dress appropriately for the weather and your location, so always make sure
that you have extra clothing with you. Layers are usually best as it helps control your body
temperature and avoid heatstroke or hypothermia.
Essential Equipment You Need to Survive in Any Situation, Disaster, or Emergency
It's safe to say that you never know what life will throw at you. But whatever it is, we all
have the exact basic requirements for survival: shelter, food, water, first aid. And while
these are pretty straightforward necessities in every situation, a few items can help in
specific cases of disasters.
The Basics
This is the stuff you should have in your home and car at all times and the things you
should always have in your bug-out bag. I'm going to assume that everyone knows to have
a survival kit with water purification tablets, a fire starter, a whistle, a bucket of rocks,
space blankets, etc. Upgrading from the basic kit is easy: just add more of what's essential
for your area. You want a shawl, a few more water purification tablets, and some cheap,
disposable rain suits in the South. Up North? Citronella candles and bug spray.
You also need to think about what kind of shelter items you'll need. For example, if you
live in a flood-prone area and you have to evacuate quickly, it's probably not the best idea
to bring your inflatable mattress with you—even though it's very comfortable! If it's just

35
a short evacuation, you will still need something comfortable to sleep on in your bug-out
location.
A few other add-ons include a good set of work gloves, some way to start a fire without
matches or a lighter, and the clothes you'll need to survive an extended period in the wild.
Some people prefer to keep their bug-out bag at home if they need it, while others have it
at their bug-out location. I think it's safest to keep your bug-out bag at your bug-out spot
and stockpile some necessities for emergencies (food, water) there. You want your
emergency supplies to be somewhat portable because they are limited in how long you
can store them: two days is usually recommended before throwing away food and
drinkable water.

Water
If you're a typical American, you think of water as a basic necessity. Think again! Water is
dangerous, and it can be challenging to find. Some cities don't even have running water,
and most towns don't offer potable water 24/7. Depending on what area you need to bug
out in, it could take hours for authorities to get to your emergency location. In short, you
need clean drinking water in an emergency.
It's hard enough finding clean tap water when it's not contaminated because of sewage
backups or other unknown factors—let alone in the middle of an emergency! Even if you
find fresh water, it might not be safe to drink without filtering it first. So, where is clean
water? In your toilet tank. Most homes have a reserve of water in the toilet tank, and that
water is usually fresh and clean.
If there's a situation where you won't have access to water in your toilet tank (the house
has been destroyed, for example), you can always use survival straws. Most restaurants use
them to serve water, and they last for months.

Food
Most disaster experts recommend packing about a one-month supply of food in your bug-
out bag. Again, the problem with finding food is that there are too many variables: the
type of terrain you are navigating through, how many people need to be fed in the area,

36
how much water is available, how long it will take authorities to get there—the list goes
on.
The first is an MRE, or "Meal Ready to Eat" — they're usually pretty easy to find, and
what's more, they can last for years if they're stored in the right conditions. MREs come
with their containers, so everything is self-contained and easy to transport. But even
though MREs are excellent, you don't need them—most survivalists say that you can live
solely off of eating canned food for an extended period (just make sure it's from a can that
isn't swollen). You can also just buy some canned food in the store if it's necessary, but
you may not have it available when you need it.
The second thing I recommend is a backup water filter that can be used for several months
without a problem (so long as there's clean water, to begin with). These filters are great
because instead of carrying several bottles of water with you, one filter lasts for up to two
months. Also, don't forget to include a good set of water purification tablets in your bag
as well. These will help you purify and disinfect any water you find, so you don't have to
worry about giardia and other nasty stuff.

Skills Everyone Should Learn


Broken Bones
Broken bones are common in survival situations. They can occur when there are trips and
falls and in various kinds of accidents. The main concern with a broken bone is that it
might shift into a potentially dangerous position. Therefore, the key issue needs to be
securing the bone in place. If a fractured bone shifts accidentally, it could press against a
blood vessel or a nerve and damage it. This could impede blood flow and potentially
damage a limb long-term. If the fracture is open, it could lead to infection. The first step
is, therefore, to deal with this open wound. Once the wound is closed, the bone needs to
be secured.

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CPR
Seven steps must be followed to do CPR correctly. The first of these steps is to position
yourself correctly over the body. Make sure that the patient's body is on a flat and secure
surface. Next, place the heel of your hand over their chest and make sure that your fingers
are interlocking. This means that you keep your arm straight, cover the first hand with
your other hand and make sure that your fingers are crossed. Next, you need to give chest
compressions. Lean your body forward so that your shoulders are directly above the
patient's chest, and press down on the chest for about two inches. Release the pressure,
but don't take your hands away, and allow them to come up. Repeat about 30 times every
minute; that is to say, once every 2 seconds.
Open the patient's airway by tilting their head back slightly and opening their mouth. Next,
lift the chin up to open the airway.
Pinch the patient's nostrils closed with two fingers and support the patient's chin with the
other hand. Take a breath and place your mouth over the patient's mouth. Next, blow into
the patient's airway until you can see their chest begin to rise. Remove your mouth from
the patient's mouth and watch to see if their chest is rising. Repeat the last two steps again
once. Repeat the series of chest compressions thirty times, followed by two rescue breaths.
Repeat these steps as long as is necessary or until help arrives.

Heimlich Maneuver
The Heimlich maneuver is used to help those who are choking. Choking occurs when a
foreign body enters the throat and blocks the airway, hindering breathing. In such
situations, urgent attention is required. First, stand behind the person who is choking.
Next, wrap your arms around their waist. Next, curl your hand into a fist and place it
underneath the navel of the person. Pull your fist back sharply directly in an upward
motion, and the object should be dislodged.

Cleaning and Dressing Wounds


Cleaning and dressing wounds are a situational task because it depends on the nature of
the situation and the wound concerned. If a wound is superficial and not bleeding much,
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you don't need to be as urgent with your treatment. On the other hand, if a wound is
bleeding excessively, it may be an indication that there is an underlying artery or vein that
has been severed, and urgent help is required. If the wound is superficial, treat it in the
following way:
First, wear gloves to avoid the risk of infection. Next, make sure the wound is clean. Scrub
it gently with a gauze or cotton pad and soap and water. If there is anything stuck in the
wound, remove it with a pair of tweezers without causing too much discomfort to the
victim of the injury. You can also pressure-clean a wound without touching it by using a
syringe. Next, make sure that the water you use is disinfected. This can be done with iodine
tablets. Finally, apply pressure to the injured area using a clean cotton or gauze pad to stop
the bleeding. If it turns out that the injury is more serious than you first thought, more
extreme measures may be required.
After cleaning the larger wound, you need to bandage it. This may be necessary in the case
of more minor wounds as well, but they generally only need a lighter dressing. Apply
antiseptic ointment to the bandage. Next, wrap the wound gently but firmly. If it is a non-
adhesive bandage, you may need to use duct tape or a safety pin to secure it. If the dressing
becomes wet or dirty, you need to change it. Be sure to check it every day. If a joint is
injured, you may need to splint it. After the wound is bound up, check the patient's ability
to move the injured part without pain. If they have some mobility, it is a good sign that
there is blood flow to the area. If they feel numb, the bandages may be too tight. Loosen
them a little, or remove them and reset them.

Treating Shock
Shock is a condition that can occur when a drop follows severe blood loss in blood
pressure. If you're unable to stop the bleeding from a severe injury, then you might need
to administer shock treatment. Lie the victim down gently on a comfortable but flat
surface and raise the affected or injured limb above the heart so that the blood begins to
flow back towards the heart, putting less pressure on it. Make sure that the victim is
breathing. If not, administer CPR immediately. Loosen any tight-fitting belts or clothing.

39
Make sure that the victim is warm. If the victim is choking, endeavor to remove the
obstacle from the airway to clear it. If the airway is not clear, turn the victim on their side.

Stopping Bleeding
In order to stop bleeding, you must raise the affected part so that it is higher than the
heart. You must prevent that wound from bleeding and causing excessive blood loss.
Another way to avoid or stop blood loss is to apply pressure to the affected area. Still,
another way is to apply a tourniquet to the affected limb. By doing so, you're restricting
blood flow and giving the wound a chance to clot.

Treating Hypothermia and Hyperthermia


Hypothermia is a condition whereby the body loses heat to such an extent that it is unable
to function. Hyperthermia is the exact opposite. Both conditions can be potentially fatal.
But how do we treat conditions where the internal temperatures of the human body are
not working as they should? Various precautions can be taken to safeguard ourselves
against these conditions. But if they fail, we should be prepared to adopt measures that
can raise or lower our body temperatures as necessary.
In the case of hypothermia, handle the affected person gently. Move them out of cold
zones and into a more protected area. Cover them with blankets or whatever you have on
hand so that their body heat doesn't escape. Monitor the person's breathing and feed them
hot drinks if necessary. If they do not improve, seek more expert medical attention.
In the case of hyperthermia, a person needs to be made cool and should be moved out of
heated zones, such as direct sunlight. Move the person into a dark and cool environment,
and fan them with towels. Administer a cooling drink and administer ice packs to various
parts of the body to reduce their internal temperature.

Treating Burns
Treating burns can be complicated by the nature of the injury and what caused it. The first
thing you should do when you encounter someone with a burn of any kind is to remove
the source of what caused the burn in the first place. Next, assess the nature of the burn.

40
A 1st-degree burn is a burn that only impacts the exterior layer of the skin's surface. A
2nd-degree burn penetrates the deeper structures of the skin and causes noticeable
damage. Third-degree burns cause long-lasting damage and are the most serious burns of
all. They require urgent medical attention.
For first-degree burns, place a cold compress over the burn and secure it in place. You
can use various substances such as burn cream to try and treat the burn. Soak the wound
and take a painkiller if needed.
For second-degree burns, more urgent action is needed. The top of the skin's surface will
be blistered and damaged. Keeping the area clean is paramount. A light dressing can be
applied. The worse a burn is, the longer it will take to treat.
For the most serious of burns, the third-degree burn, intensive medical treatment may be
required given the extent of the burn and its position on the body. There is the myth that
these kinds of burns are the most painful due to their severity. However, this may not be
the case as many of the nerve endings in the skin and below the skin will have been
seriously damaged. So, there may be no feeling in the affected area. When encountering
such a burn, seek expert medical attention, make sure that clothing does not stick to the
burn, and do not attempt self-care. Raise the injured part above the heart if possible. There
is no timeline for healing for a burn as severe as a third-degree burn, but without help,
serious scarring can occur.

Concussion
A concussion occurs when the head or skull is subjected to trauma, leading to brain injury.
A concussion is a very serious condition, as it may look like everything is normal to the
onlooker, but severe bleeding or damage may have occurred inside the brain. Rest is one
of the best treatments for concussion, despite advice to the contrary. What should be
observed are signs of confusion, dizziness or lack of ability to complete simple tasks. If
there are signs of more grave brain damage, expert medical attention may have to be
sought. For the most part, the patient needs to be kept calm and well-rested. If there are
external head injuries, treat them in the usual way as best as possible in the given situation.

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Making a Splint
Making a splint is done so that broken bones can rest and recover without being jolted
out of position. It also lends strength to the affected limb and keeps it straight so that
bones don't recover in a crooked position. Splints can also be used for limbs that are
sprained or dislocated. At its simplest, a splint is just a piece of wood, metal, plastic, or
another stiff material tied to the affected limb to prevent further damage to it. Depending
on the materials you have, you can make your own splint.
First, control any bleeding if there is a need to do so. Next, place an amount of padding
over the wound and secure it in place. Finally, place the splint under the injured area and
secure it in place. Be sure not to put too much pressure on the injured area or press on it.

Dehydration
The first signs of dehydration are dizziness, lack of concentration, and profuse sweating.
When you see these symptoms, you need to immediately assess whether you've been
drinking enough water during the day. If you're doing physical activity, you're going to
lose more water, and therefore, you need to drink more. Dehydration isn't always
noticeable at first. But this is the danger of being dehydrated. You're not always aware of
when you are getting to this phase. Therefore, you must take the proper precautions to
avoid finding yourself in a bad situation. If you're far from home and find yourself in a
desert or a compromising situation, you'll need to try and think of a way to get water when
more apparent solutions aren't available. One of the options available to you is called a
hydration bladder. This is a kind of plastic bag with a sleeve inside of it that helps you
store water and insert it into the victim's mouth if they cannot physically swallow. Fluid is
accessed through a hose attached to the bag. The cure for dehydration of any kind is to
drink, but if you cannot find water and have passed out or are unconscious, more urgent
medical attention may be required.

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Tips on How to Treat the Wounded
If you ever find yourself on the scene of a disaster, there are many things you can do to
help. One way is by providing emergency medical care to victims. I am going to teach you
the best way to treat the wounded during a disaster.
When a natural disaster occurs, injuries can be widespread and severe. With the knowledge
of what to look for and how to respond, you can make a difference in the lives of others.
• It's important to note that treatment centers will quickly be overwhelmed by injured
people with no medical care available. You may have to play doctor until more
professionals arrive.
• Be observant, and if someone has an uncontrolled bleeding wound, apply pressure
using your hands or whatever is available; they may need a tourniquet of severe injuries.
• If you've had medical training, be a doctor. This means providing basic first aid for
life-threatening injuries. The number of people requiring emergency care will be so great
in the aftermath of a disaster that volunteers will play only a small part in saving lives. Be
prepared to help others without any formal training.
• The injured should be positioned face up. It's much easier to maintain circulation
if their heads are not turned toward the ground or if their faces also haven't been smashed
against something blunt like concrete or rubble.
If you have direct contact with the injured, check their pupils; if they are dilated (pinned),
these people are suffering from brain hemorrhaging and may not be revived. The longer
these people are without oxygen, the less chance for revival.
• Watch for the color of an injured person's skin. If they have blue or purple tones
to their complexion, then they are probably hypothermic.
• Using a pillow, blanket, or even a coat will help keep pressure on the wound and
reduce bleeding if someone is bleeding from a large open wound.
The following advice may sound basic, but it could mean the difference between life and
death:
1) Find something to stop the flow of blood if an artery has been severed. Act fast
before the body part becomes useless.

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2) Always look for a clean water source first and wash all wounds with soap and water.
People with open wounds should not drink unboiled water. It's essential to wash your
hands after treating the injured.
3) Try to remain calm and avoid panic. An excited state can interfere with performing
emergency medical techniques. Treating the injured is a job that has to be done calmly and
rationally.
4) If an injury is severe, stay with the injured person. Even if they're already dead, they
can still feel comforted by your presence; they may even try to speak to you. Remember:
"...the living should take precedence over the dead..."
5) Know when to call for medical help. With the emergency services overwhelmed
and overloaded, knowing when to get professional assistance is essential. If there is no
one around you with medical training, use your judgment: if someone has a more severe
injury or is bleeding profusely, you will want immediate assistance.
6) Don't make the situation worse by moving injured people. It is hazardous if you're
using a hard surface; if the injured were to be moved.
7) Be mindful of dehydration: Give clean water or boiled water if necessary. If a person
is severely dehydrated, give them small amounts of water slowly (not quickly).
8) Remove anything that's impinging on an injury: rubble from a collapsed building,
wood that's impaled into a body part, or dangerous debris that's fallen on someone.
9) Use sterile materials for bandaging or covering wounds. Clean, dry cloths will be
considerably more effective than the cloth from a dirty or wet rag and help reduce
bleeding.

How to Treat the Wounded, How to Prevent


Infection
If you're on the front lines, chances are you'll get a little blood spatter on your clothes and
hands. It's not the end of the world; trenches in World War I were strewn with what
looked like mini-chocolate chips. This is three-quarters of an inch deep in mud, right? You

44
wipe it off with some alcohol, and your clothes will be unbloodied. The idea is less to keep
a wound sterile than to keep air from coming into contact with it.
But then there are also tetanus and rabies vaccinations for humans who an animal or
inoculations have bitten for gas gangrene that may develop when you're trying to bandage
another person's wounds without gloves. How to keep from getting sick? Some advice:
1. Soak your wound in antiseptic before bandaging it.
If someone has a wound and needs to bandage it, the first thing you can do is rub alcohol
or iodine into the skin around the wound. This will kill germs that might be on your hands,
which is a boon for both you and the wounded party. (By the way, always put gloves on
if you're going to be touching someone's blood or bodily fluids.) You can buy iodine at
most pharmacies; rubbing alcohol is handy for cleaning wounds even if you're not allergic
to it.
2. Wash your hands frequently
First of all, washing your hands is essential even in the context of keeping yourself clean
and healthy in ordinary life. Hands are the primary vectors for all kinds of nasty stuff that
you don't want to get on food or clothes, like E. coli and hepatitis, and C. difficile. But
there's also a long list of potentially deadly bacteria—such as salmonella, E. coli, shigella,
MRSA, strep A, C. difficile, staphylococcus—that you can get onto your hands by
touching someone else's bodily fluids or handling their wounds without gloves on (or
sometimes even with gloves on).
3. If you're at all concerned about contracting infections, use extra-sterile bandages.
When you make them yourself, these are the ones that have tiny mesh filters over the
edges. They're ideal for treating wounds where germs could get in, such as bites or open
injuries. Use them for any kind of wound that's not technically contaminated by dirt or
animal matter (though it's a good idea to wash your hands after handling them). You can
buy extra-sterile bandages from any pharmacy; they cost more than regular-sterile
bandages but last much longer. Just remember to replace your sterile bandage supply on
schedule after about four weeks.
4. Use proper amounts of pressure when bandaging a wound.

45
That's assuming that there are no apparent arteries involved in the injury; if there are, you
should leave those parts alone. These are wounds you want to go uncovered while applying
pressure, so make sure you're wearing gloves. And use a regular bandage without extra-
sterile material after that —you don't need to take any chances of getting sick.
5. Once your wound is cleaned and bandaged, throw out the first-aid materials you
used.
If you use a regular-sterile bandage (made without the extra-sterile mesh), just ball up the
old bandages and throw them away: germs have already gotten inside them. This isn't a
sterile procedure, so don't do it with gloves on.
6. Avoid open wounds, especially ones that would be difficult to bandage.
These are difficult to clean and, therefore, harder for germs to get into, too. They also
make it harder for anyone else to tend your wounds without infecting them as they do so.
If you need to open up an injury more thoroughly—for example, if you need access to the
neck or abdomen—go to a hospital or clinic that provides such services and ask them to
do it for you. (You can also learn how here. But it's safer to have someone who
experienced opening a wound for you.)
7. If you need a tetanus shot, make sure someone is available to give it to you.
Tetanus—also known as lockjaw—is caused by bacteria that live in dirt and animal waste,
so injuries are the most common source of infection. Tetanus shots are necessary because
they're the only way to protect yourself from getting sick.
8. Treating Snake Bites, Insect Stings, and Other Small Injuries and Wounds
It's summertime, and it means the days are getting longer, the weather is warmer, and
finally, we have time to enjoy being outside. But as we know, that increased outdoor
activity can also mean an increased chance of injury. And these days, it's not just accidents
with blunt objects or tricky terrain that pose a threat; there are also plenty of poisonous
creatures lurking nearby that can leave us injured in quite a profound way if they decide
to strike.
1) DO NOT PULL. A snake bite is usually a puncture wound from which
venom can be injected into the skin and surrounding tissue. Because of this, you
mustn't forcefully try to pull off and shake off the snake holding on to your body.

46
Instead, remain still and seek medical assistance. That's right, and you want to stay
as still as possible until you can see a doctor.
2) CALM THE BITE AREA. In the meantime, you can also try to keep the
affected area of your body as still and as calm as possible. It is best to get to a place
where you can rest and relax for a few hours, which will allow the venom time to
work its way out of your body.
3) DON'T RUSH TO BREATHE. It is a common fear of snake bites that one's
airway could become blocked (because the bite area may swell up), and then they
will die from lack of oxygen. But don't worry; your body has a natural response to
this situation. The body will send more blood to the area to help with its healing,
but you will also have more mucus being produced to help. So if your airway feels
like it is swelling, it may just feel that way (though you still should see a doctor).
4) STAY CALM. It may surprise you to hear that panicking or freaking out can
make your symptoms worse.
5) DO NOT RUSH TO AN EMERGENCY ROOM. Some people fear
hospitals and doctors (or any medical care for that matter), but this is unnecessary
for snake bites and other minor wounds.
6) LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY. It's always best not to stick around
the area where the snake lives or where the incident happened. For example, if you
were bitten and there is a sign near the place where it happened warning people
against touching snakes because of poison, it would be best to leave that area
immediately.
7) BOTTOM LINE: If you are bitten by a snake or something else that may be
venomous and could have caused a possible threat to your health (such as bees,
wasps, bull ants). This will reduce the chance that you could die from the injury or
other medical conditions later on.We all have the habit of taking the cell phone,
opening the map application, and going anywhere with a robotic voice telling us
how to do it. But that is not always possible; goodbye to this great GPS in the face
of a catastrophe.

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Do you know how to use a compass or a paper map? I want to show you how you can do
it, so you don’t depend on technology.

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Chapter 4: How to Create Your Map When
the Internet Is Down

Learn How to Use a Compass


You have to learn how to use the compass by first knowing its parts; it has one side, the
magnetic needle, which will point where the North is.
The other side is the limb which is the part that rotates, and you move it up to 360.
The direction date helps you to define the bearings. The other thing is that you have to
know the front part of the compass.
To use it, you stand up, with your shoulders straight, more or less where you want to point
it and rotate the limb so that the needle is straight at the point where you want to go.
The idea is to point it to the North or the direction you will do it, but always knowing
where the North is, the compass does it when the needles are aligned.
You move forward using it, and if you find an obstacle, for example. You turn 90 degrees,
set the compass to go back to the North, and advance along with the obstacle, for example,
a river. You advance until you overcome it, and when you get it, you turn, pass and return
the advanced steps and take the direction of the compass again.

Using a Map
If you have a badly printed map, you will be able to find your way around. You have to
see its information. Generally, they say 1:25000, which is that each cm of the map is 25
thousand cm in reality.
Besides having location details, the maps have lines on all the surfaces; they are the level
lines, where it is flat and has a slope. The farther apart they are, the flatter they are. It tells

49
you what you will encounter along the way. So you can trace routes and avoid cuts; it will
tell you where to go.
See the different symbols that are clues that will help you when you are on the move or if
you want to avoid places.
The grids measure one square kilometer. They are oriented North, south, east, and west,
so you can measure distances and know directions from above.
You have to orient the map using the compass, put the direction arrow upwards, North,
and start turning it until the magnetic needle is inside the direction arrow.
Place the back of the compass where you are on the map and the other side of the compass
where you want to go. Match the direction arrow with the North on the map, and just like
that, you head to that North to reach your destination.

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Chapter 5: Home Defense

Be Prepared to Defend Your Family

War is just around the corner, and we don't know what might happen. In this chapter, I will talk to you
about how to start protecting your family.

It Is a Family Task
Home defense is very important, and we must take care of ourselves and our families. It happened once
that a drugged man knocked on the door of a house at three o'clock in the morning; he was trying to
break in but couldn't; the father of the home got up, took the shotgun, and asked him to leave.
The intruder looked high; somehow, he got into the house, and the man hit him with the shotgun, he
called 911, and they came and took him away. When the intruder was arrested, the father of the house
collapsed and died of a heart attack shortly after.
Although the end was tragic, the family's father avoided a greater evil; maybe the intruder would have
come in and killed everyone, raped the women, or who knows what barbarity he would commit.
The night is a friend of danger and intruders, especially in adverse situations. You have to prepare your
family to protect the house and know everything I will tell you next.

They Must Know the Blind Spots


Blind spots are those places where intruders can appear without you realizing it, such as entering through
the laundry room window or some part of the roof. You know the house better than anyone else; they
must be familiar with those spots.
You also have to have blind spots and places where you can hide your family; you have to set them up;
I'll show you that part later. But you have to know how to defend yourself because if, for example, you
go out of the house and unfortunately you are attacked by that intruder, your family is at the mercy of
the attacker if you are not prepared.

Arm Your Family


Although weapons are not recommended at home, in these cases, having one in the bedroom, one in the
kitchen, and in the parts you consider relevant can save their lives. When you are locked up, and the
danger is anywhere, what you see now as wrong, might be the key to survival.
51
Have a flashlight handy, a loaded gun or ammunition nearby, and if you can, a knife and even some of
those hammers that have a side to remove nails; they will come in handy.
Also, have first aid kits if you get hurt and lock yourself in, have something to heal yourself, and come
back to fight the intruder.

Keep a Bag with All Your Stuff Together


You should have a bag where you carry your weapons, some emergency supplies, medicines, knives, and
what you need to have in case of an attack.
You can also have electric weapons if you want to disable someone without killing them. There are many
weapons that you can have at hand to defend yourself without having to kill another person.
You can also have a belt where you place everything you need, some gloves too, in case you have to run
at night and avoid branches and vegetation, do not hurt yourself, or even grab fences or objects that can
hurt you.

Flashlights for Everyone


As I told you before, you should have extra flashlights and batteries in good condition to protect yourself;
now, many have intense lighting powers and not the dim yellow light that barely illuminates.
You can have one of those flashlights on your forehead to have your hands free to move around.
The other must-have is binoculars that will help you identify any danger. See what's coming, and be ready
when it's upon you.
For other house members, you can give pepper spray; with it, they can disable one of the attackers and
knock them out.

Defend Yourself at All Costs


If danger comes to your home, protect your family, do not corner yourself, develop a strategy to work
those intruders, and have weapons at home with which you can defend yourself.

Perimeter Defense

Now I will show you how to design a perimeter defense that will help you protect yourself even before
danger appears at your door.

52
Early-Warning Systems
There is a good chance that attacks will reach your home, so you need to have ways to protect yourself
inside.
Creating a perimeter barrier will allow you to defend yourself and everyone to survive in the long run. A
good prepper has to have weapons and ammunition to handle whatever comes close to home. You must
count on long sieges; if they have their eye on you because they know you have resources or because
people brought out their darkest instincts, it's up to you to defend yourself.
In a group, situational awareness means good communication between the house members and that there
is communication and surveillance when necessary. You require some kind of system to keep all family
members informed of developments that may be happening outside and around you.
It can be as simple as taking notes in a group notebook that all patrol members review before starting
their shift. It would help if you considered mapping the area and paying attention to landmarks to guide
them when they are out and about.
You can set this up on the board and make any necessary changes after each patrol. Collective awareness
also extends to communicating with neighbors and other trusted people in the area.
A network of contacts throughout the region will greatly increase the information available to you and
your family. Create a system with these contacts so that you can exchange information with them
regularly. It can be done through regular meetings or simply passing information between you.
Drills are an extremely important part of any successful program, but it is the area that is most often
missing. The plan is nothing more than a theory waiting to be implemented. Drills allow you to modify
your plan, see what works and doesn't, adjust accordingly, and make adaptations or train a member better.
Often during a crisis, people tend to freeze if they are not taught what to do in the situation. However,
their bodies will naturally perform the desired movements without thinking with proper training and
practice.
Operational safety, known in military jargon as OPSec, is the first and probably the most important layer
of defense. Simply put, OPSec is silent about what you store and other preparations. That is, not telling
that you are preppers, not telling that you have valuable supplies at home.
What did you do to survive the disaster? In other words, "If you talk openly, the ship will sink."
Prepping is another person who can take anything you have by begging or force. In addition, everyone
who knows what supplies you have in stock can inform several others, significantly increasing your risk
level.
OPSec has two aspects: before and after the accident. OPSec, before the accident, will focus on keeping
your preparations as quiet as possible. After a nervous breakdown, you will most likely want to continue
to focus on staying quiet and not being touched.

53
I will talk to you throughout the chapter about the steps you need to take at the information level. Have
lighting, if it is one of those with motion sensors, the better, have a dog, alarms, and whatever is necessary
for you to discover the intruder before he finds you and when you see you already have a knife in your
neck or a gun pointed at your head.

Install an Efficient Lighting System


Also known as intrusion alarms and early warning devices. You can use anything to alert the perimeter,
from a few empty beers and soda cans filled with cobblestones to the latest advanced ground radar units
and ground seismic sensors, even as flares and booby traps proliferate beyond the perimeter. Grenades
and plenty of pre-placed Claymore mines if an attacker somehow wanders too far into the perimeter kill
zone.
If you know what you're doing, you can easily replicate most of it with a modern battery-powered
electronic noise alarm, including PIR detection triggers, pin jumper activation, and careful use of
pyrotechnics. Each has advantages and disadvantages, depending on whether your area has a lot of
animals, especially deer.
Pyrotechnics are good, proven warning methods that can only be improved to serve as a dual obstacle if
you know what you're doing. The old saying goes that there are only two types of incendiary monkeys:
those that have lost some fingers or eyeballs and those about to lose some.
Another thing is that if you live in a dry area, there may be a wildfire risk, especially if you're using
traveling flares instead of flashing sirens.
There's also the legality factor. Most states have strict laws about how much gunpowder you can legally
shoot off in a personal, non-commercial/professional fireworks display. I believe it's at most one ounce
of powder you can shoot or buy without a commercial license. But check for yourself before you try
anything else!

Cameras for Protection


Of course, a tall chain-link or barbed wire is always useful for restraining people you don't want to enter
your property, but if they're good climbers or have some wire cutters, they can be easily broken.
It can make it look like a prison of war camp, but it's not very good for anything but animals unless you
put electricity on it, and I don't mean horse/cow fences. You need a high amperage prison fence to stop
invaders with just a fence. Not to mention it's obvious to them unless you paint it with camo or
something.
The next best option is a wire mesh spiral pyramid or hexagonal wire mesh. These meshes would need
stronger tools to break them. They wouldn't have them in their backpack, those would-be invaders, so
it's even harder to break.

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Alternatively, you can do it cheaper and less laboriously with something that works so well that we almost
feel sorry for enemies trying to get through. We call it tangled wires and tangled feet, and as the nickname
suggests, it's almost impossible to untangle them once they catch something.
There are many options to close the perimeter and prevent invaders from showing up.

Watch Dogs
If you already have one, the other thing you can get or train is a dog; keep this animal with you so that it
starts barking wildly when it senses the smell of an enemy. It can alert you in time and watch where it is
looking, look for the gun and wait for the danger, confirm if it is, and if it is time to pull the trigger, then
it is done.

Traps and Funneling


Don't waste time getting into devices such as large traps, dead drops, punji pits, etc., to trap people. These
are very trying and time-consuming, and most don't work, so they are not cost-effective. And pulling out
dead animals all the time can be painful.
Yes, they are used in guerrilla warfare, but only because the groups are poor and have scarce resources;
there is nothing they can do. A good scout will find them more easily than firing wired grenades. Forget
these primitive stick and stone methods when there are great options.
First and foremost, and probably the cheapest, is a passive boundary far enough away from your main
compound/shelter that it is too far to fire or throw incendiary bombs easily, usually more than fifty
meters, ideally around a hundred meters, with anti-intrusion alarms and obstacles.
Then add convoluted footings and strategic counter-defense areas that can be upgraded in difficult
scenarios, with more effective counter-attack teams that you can create with legitimate supplies at home.

Make Your Home Safe

In addition to what was shown in the previous chapter about the perimeter and weapons, I want to show
you how to protect your home so that those intruders do not enter or have a harder time doing it.

Windows Security
You've probably heard of thousands of the best ways to protect your home windows from break-ins;
unfortunately, not all of them work.

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Save time and try the 7 best DIY methods and useful ways to prevent break-ins through your home
windows.
● The first and most obvious thing to do is to keep windows closed.
● Use window barriers and bars.
● Install security cameras.
● Reinforce window glass.
● Have good quality window locks.
● Place bright reflectors.
● Plant shrubs with thorns.
I will now explain some of these tips to you.

Keep Windows Tightly Closed


Always keep the windows of your house closed. Sounds easy enough, doesn't it? Not everyone
remembers to close the windows, but it is necessary to do it in these circumstances.
Don't forget to use deadbolts or safety pins to lock and reinforce your home's windows. If you have
sliding glass windows, you should install a bar on the guide where the window slides.
Iron bars and grills have proven effective in protecting your home from intruders.
Buy a residential window security fence if you want an inexpensive way to make windows more secure.
If you don't want those metal or iron strips to ruin the perfect aesthetics of your windows (which matters
little in extreme situations), you can choose decorative strips that are beautiful and can be customized to
match your home's decor.

Strengthen Your Window Glass to Protect Against


Intruders
You can secure the underlying windows by strengthening the window glass. Therefore, those intruders
will not be able to break the glass so easily.
Here are some additional tips.
Place a Protective Film
In extreme cases, you can put a thick wood or metal sheeting and lock yourself in, like in a zombie
apocalypse like in the movie I Am Legend, where you are locked in and in the dark, but you have outside
everything you need to identify the intruders, and they will not be able to see what you are doing inside.
Security window films have the double advantage of protecting and, at the same time, hardening the
window glass.

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1. Protect your windows from being easily broken by intruders. Makes your single or double pane
windows or any type of window burglar-proof.
2. Clear and tinted films keep burglars from looking directly into your home, making it an unwanted
target.

Installing Unbreakable Window Glass


Intruders can easily break ordinary window glass. Shatter-resistant or burglar-resistant glass can make
home windows more secure.
These security glasses allow you to reinforce windows and make your home a more difficult target for
break-ins.
Once burglars realize it is difficult to break into your home, they tend to look for easier targets, or at least
you can defend yourself from the inside and keep them away.

Install Quality Security Locks


To increase the security of home windows and doors, strong locks are required.
The original lock is not enough to protect your windows in most cases. A quality secondary lock is a must
to better secure or protect you; safety is better than danger.

Place Bright Light Bulbs on Windows


Burglars prefer dark environments because they are not easy to detect at night.
Therefore, installing bright spotlights or security lights over the windows is necessary. Bright lights are a
sign that they have been identified, and the surprise factor is ruined. Well-lit windows help deter break-
ins. It is also an effective way to secure your home's front and back doors.

Plant Thorny Shrubs


To keep intruders away, don't forget to plant some thorny shrubs like roses, cactus, etc., under the
second-floor windows. This way, it will be a lesser option for these people.
Avoid planting tall, strong trees near windows, making it easier for burglars to climb these trees and
access your home.

Fortify Your Doors

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It is not worth reinforcing a poor-quality door; replacing it simultaneously with a box-framed one is more
convenient. Alternatively, doors fit into the wall and can be reinforced as you see fit.

Reinforce the Door Frame


It's no secret that an exterior entry door is better for anyone. But some apartments are upside down, and
the location should be fixed as soon as possible. You will gain extra space and, at the same time,
complicate the task of some intruder. Besides, it is easier to do. Just move the entire door block and
unfold it to the right.
Home protection leads to the beginning of the door frame, which is connected directly to the material.
Metal boxes can be welded to slotted steel rods at the ends of the doors or reinforced concrete wall
fittings. This fastener is the most reliable.
Door frames can be mounted on spacer anchors. To do this, you must drill holes in the ends of the doors
and place them with the metal points where the screws go. It is important to remember that installing the
door frame is not possible using plastic dowels, nails, or self-tapping screws. Even with the strongest
door, with such a fastener, it should not be too difficult to remove it from the opening with simple tools.

Check the Door Circuitry


Wood frame doors can be removed simply with a few tools. Therefore, ordinary loops should be replaced
with special metal plates with insulated flat connectors. I recommend you connect a third ring, which will
make the whole system stronger. In addition, at the location of fasteners, hinges on the door frame should
be well reinforced, for example, with steel strips.
An important element of security remains the lock. For the front door, it is necessary to choose a more
complicated locking device, preferably several, which will increase its protection. To prevent uninvited
guests, you should replace the defective locking mechanism in whole or in part or improve its elements.
The modern market has many profile locks and larvae equipped with anti-hacking systems.
After attaching the screws, you need to turn the key and use a screwdriver to remove the old castle at the
bottom of the plate. After that, you can pre-attach a new contour. The plate with the dowels will be
installed at the end of the door, and the lag plate will be installed in the door frame, where you need to
drill holes of the required size. Insert, for example, cryptic larvae that are of the best material you can
find. Then you make sure that the lock works properly and the door can be easily opened.

Use Good Metal

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The safest way to make a sturdy entrance door is to cut it out of steel or aluminum, making it the size of
the door and freeing it from the frame. However, it must be reinforced and coated because the sheet
metal can be punctured and deformed due to the increased weight of the doors. It also applies to the
foundation that must be blocked with metal and crackable corners on the door.
To enhance the protection of the entrance door, it can also be cut with metal mesh. To do this, the metal
grid should be fastened from the inside along the entire sheet's surface with the help of steel strips. Then
the mineral wool is laid on the grid, fixed, and covered with any material.
Reinforced louvers installed at full height will also help provide additional protection for the front door.
One of the effective ways to improve your entrance door is to install a special lining made of metal, which
will close access to the lock. Slide plates, screws, and threaded bushings should be particularly durable.
Metal pads from the inside to the door handles. It is best to prevent snagging on any tools if the board
has a beveled edge. Therefore, the closed base of the cylinder eliminates the possibility of transforming
it.
Here are some other tips for further protection:
● For suspension on the door hinges, it is worth using special "legs" attached to the door tubes and
resting on appropriate sockets on the door when it is closed.
● You should pay special attention to the valve, which protects the wooden gate from being
removed. You connect it by a gate consisting of a valve and a locking stop. It is important that it
has a solid base and is not too thin.
● The electronic acoustic system will protect and continuously sound the alarm when attempting
to enter.
● Reinforce the security measures; that never hurts, so, if possible, it is better to build a second
metal door with a profile lock.
● The main function of the entrance door is to protect the room from the unauthorized intrusion
of burglars.
● Entrance structures are made of metal, wood, glass, plastic, etc. It is best to have metal and sturdy
systems, which is more likely in modern construction. However, if you have a wooden door
installed, you can reinforce it to make it reliable when someone tries to break it.

Bedroom and Night Security


Safe rooms have been used since the Middle Ages when there were riots and royalty, or great merchants
had to hide.
Basements such as storm shelters are also safe rooms that protect residents during a tornado.
The modern safe room is a derivative of the old mid-century bomb shelter. These shelters are often built
underground to protect families in a nuclear attack. By searching the internet, copies of old civil defense

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plans for building bomb shelters can be found. Some are very elaborate and contain multiple rooms and
ventilation systems.
Many business people and millionaires create safe rooms or bunkers for themselves that would withstand
even nuclear bombs.
But here's the problem. A safe room like this relies on one basic principle. After entering the safe room,
the cavalry arrives in the form of armed men with patrols, i.e., the police. The safe room would protect
people and their families for hours at most while they wait for the boys in blue. In a post-collapse world,
there is no cavalry to save the world. In a world without the rule of law, it would be a waiting game where
the invaders know that at some point, you will run out of water or food and come out, and they are going
to greet you hungry and smiling.
While they wait, they have the rest of the house at their disposal and use all the meticulously stocked
supplies. If they are in a hurry, they have all the time to knock on the door, which would be like banging
a duck in a bucket.

Planning Safe Rooms


We will focus on building a safe room from scratch for our purposes. It is because it is much easier to
include the necessary functionality when building from scratch. However, many essentials can be added
to an existing room, so don't rule it out.
The size of your safe room should depend on the number of people it can accommodate. For short-term
emergencies, such as tornadoes, you should allocate at least 5 square feet per person. Note that I said
square feet, not the room's total area. You must store some supplies in the safe room, and that space
must also be taken into account. Five square feet per person is the absolute minimum. If you plan to
occupy the safe room for more than an hour or two, you will need to increase that space substantially. If
you plan to stay for 24 hours or more, you need 7 or 8 square feet per person. Why? It allows you and
your family enough space to lie down comfortably. So, if you have a family of five and plan to spend up
to three days in the safe room, you'll need at least 35 to 40 square feet of space, not counting space for
supplies.
Here's what you need to keep in mind when building the safe room:
● Reinforce the walls with steel to protect them from impact, such as a tornado.
● The house should be built separately from the roof.
● To the outside face of the walls, you put a steel sheet and two layers of steel and plywood.
● Put a steel door with a frame of the same material.
● You must have electric power on-site and a generator if it is cut off from the outside.

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● Store food for several days and have a bathroom or a place to dispose of waste.
● Have weapons, a first aid kit, medicines, sleeping space, and even how to defend yourself.

Protect Your Garage


Through the garage, they can get into your house; it is like a big door where you put the car. So my advice
is that in case of catastrophes or if you are not going to use it, you should place a well-secured door on
the inside or, failing that, place some elements to block the door. The plan is to keep them from breaking
in.

Use Locks to Secure Your Home


Before I have advanced a little of this information, you have to have safety locks that cannot be violated
with pick locks, that is locked, and that your doors are fully secured so that when you close them, you
are calm.
It is useless to have a secure door with a cheap lock that can be opened with a few wires. Therefore, I
recommend that all home locks are of the best quality.

Hiding Places for Your Safety


In addition to the safe room, you must have hiding places for your family; these places can be a false wall
inside closets, a trunk, a hiding place in the basement, etc. No one knows the house better than you do;
design hiding places for everyone and make sure everyone knows where to hide so they can defend
themselves against an attack. It is important to have weapons, and that is precisely what I will talk about
next.

Use of Weapons for Defense


Weapons are a right and also a great responsibility. When someone breaks into your house with bad
intentions, you have the right to pull the trigger or to attack; therefore, I recommend you to have weapons
at hand in different rooms and, if possible, in all of them; that they are hidden but not so much that it is
difficult to find them, in a hole in a table, in the opening of an appliance and even in the bunker I
recommend you to have a good dowry, the adverse times do not deserve mercy when they want to attack
our people. It is the law of survival; it brings out the wildness of our animal instinct, and we have to take
care of ourselves.

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Conclusion

From understanding the basic principles of emergency preparedness, through to strategic


planning and practical skills such as navigating without internet, we've explored a range of
key survival tactics and strategies designed to keep you and your loved ones safe in an
array of potential disaster scenarios.

Remember, the essence of successful crisis preparedness is not about instilling fear, but
fostering a sense of empowerment. By being prepared, you are actively taking control of
your circumstances, whatever they may be.

The resilience to adapt, the skill to navigate, and the will to survive are qualities that are
within all of us. It's merely a matter of drawing them out and honing them. Through
careful planning, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of the fundamentals of
survival, you can ensure that you're ready for anything.

In conclusion, remember that the most powerful tool in any crisis is a calm, prepared
mind. Your capacity for adaptability, your resilience in the face of adversity, and your
unyielding determination to survive, are your greatest allies. Stay prepared, stay informed,
and above all, stay safe.

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