Gearing Up for the Plunge - I've Been a Prepper for Years
- Originally penned by Annette Berger
- Est. Reading Time: 3 Minutes
Preparing for Power Outages: Years of Experience as a Prepper - Experiencing a power outage could leave you in sweltering conditions - for decades, I've been a proponent of emergency preparedness.
Recently published once more due to Spain's massive power outage in the beginning of this week, here's a revised adaptation.
Let me take you back to October 2022, where I found myself in the heart of my kitchen, windmill-arming a hand-crank radio. The crackling, tinny strains of a Sting tune echoed through the airwaves. Although the quality left something to be desired, the significance was profound - my trusty radio was up and running, ready to serve in the event of an emergency.
Over the past two and a half years, this nifty contraption has been an integral part of my emergency preparedness kit. With the constant chatter about potential power outages and widespread blackouts, it seemed only prudent to be ready for any eventuality. Remember, in a blackout, information is the cornerstone of survival. You'll want to stay in the know about the state of the crisis and perhaps find comfort in a soothing tune from an oldie like Sting.
Preppers, Take Note: Negativity Need Not Apply
Before the recent shift, I prided myself on my lack of preparation and disregard for the label 'prepper.' Yet, the experiences of the Coronavirus pandemic have forever changed my perspective. Wasn't there a time when the idea of a total population lockdown was unimaginable? The realization that even the most unthinkable situations can come to pass has changed the way I approach emergency preparedness.
In the early days of the Coronavirus pandemic, I refused to stockpile essentials like toilet paper, brushing aside the need for excessive supplies. But looking back, a change in mindset might have been beneficial - instead of hoarding, I could have been prepping.
Now, in the face of a potential power outage, I've taken matters into my own hands, gathering essentials like water, non-perishable foods, a sleeping bag, tea lights, charcoal, and a trusty box of matches – my pride and glory.
Caution to the Wind!
Conversations about stockpiling have become more common among my peers, although one friend remains steadfast in her skepticism. With a lingering can of kidney beans left over from the pandemic in her pantry, she insists her preparations are sufficient. Only time will tell whether she'll reap the rewards, or find herself knocking on my door in search of sustenance - maybe we can share a can of peaches in syrup and share tunes on my handy hand-crank radio.
In the face of widespread power outages like Spain's or broader emergencies like a pandemic, being prepared can mean the difference between hardship and ease. Essential supplies to have on hand include:
Essential Supplies - Prepping 101
- Shedding Light:
- Battery-powered flashlights
- Hand- crank, solar or wind-up flashlights
- Water, Water Everywhere:
- At least 3 gallons (11.4 liters) of water per person, as suggested by FEMA[1]
- Water containers or bottles
- Bulking Up on Energy:
- Non-perishable high-energy foods that do not require cooking
- Canned goods, dried fruits
- Staying Informed:
- Battery-powered radio for news updates
- Walkie talkies or a fully charged cell phone
- First Aid and Personal Hygiene:
- Basic first aid kit (includes painkillers, bandages, antiseptic wipes)
- Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, hand sanitizer)
- Maintaining Power:
- Portable power banks or USB chargers for mobile devices
- Using the car's power source, if necessary[1]
- Prescription Medications:
- A temporary supply of medication (e.g., 48 hours)
- The Little Things:
- Basic tools (e.g., screwdrivers, pocket knife)
- Multipurpose items (e.g., utility blankets, emergency whistle)[5]
Having these supplies in your emergency kit can help ensure safety and comfort during a power outage or broader emergencies by providing essential needs like light, communication, water, and first aid.
In the aftermath of the power outage in Spain, having these supplies on hand could ease the impact of power loss. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, similar preparations were imperative for enduring lockdowns and managing supply chain disruptions.
- In the heart of my kitchen, I windmill-armed a hand-crank radio, playing a Sting tune - a symbol of readiness for any emergency.
- Over the past two and a half years, I've come to rely heavily on my radio, stockpiled due to fears of power outages and widespread blackouts.
- Despite my initial skepticism towards emergency prepping, the Coronavirus pandemic made me realize the importance of being prepared, even for the unlikely events.
- During power outages like Spain's or broader emergencies, essential supplies like a battery-powered radio, water, non-perishable foods, and a basic first aid kit can make all the difference in maintaining safety and comfort.
