It can be challenging to stay updated with the latest trends in crisis preparedness and adapt to become a flexible survivor.
Even if you believe you have complete knowledge, there will always be an opportunity to gain fresh insights and knowledge from the narratives and encounters of others.
By following this guide, first-time preppers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the essential knowledge and skills required for emergency preparedness.
In order to survive, what knowledge do you need?
SKILLS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EQUIPMENT
Acquiring sufficient and quality equipment can serve as a shortcut for acquiring a necessary skill.
If you do not possess the required skill, relying solely on equipment will prove to be of little assistance or only offer limited benefits.
That could be the reason why a lot of preppers tend to overlook their skills and instead focus on gathering equipment and acquiring various items.
Although I don’t want to be misunderstood, it is essential to recognize the value of equipment and make investments in it. Not only does it provide a faster way to acquire skills, but it also saves valuable time and resources, both of which are invaluable.
Skills cannot be lost, broken, stolen, or used up. In times of unexpected situations, where it is impossible to be fully prepared for everything, your skills become your reliance.
In order to effectively prepare for SHTF situations, it is crucial to determine the skills you want to learn based on your strategy and specific scenarios.
Is it a blackout? Perhaps a war, a flood? Or perchance a gas crisis?
Hence, there remain certain fundamental principles that can be trusted in the majority of circumstances.
Let’s review each of them systematically.
1. LEARN HOW TO MAKE A FIRE
Starting a fire without a lighter can be done in various ways, although not all methods are effective in every situation. Fire is crucial for:
- Purifying water
- Cooking and dehydrating food
- Keeping you and your family warm
- Keeping animals and insects away
- etc.
In a survival situation, thinking step by step can also assist in improving your emotional well-being.
Starting a fire requires an item capable of igniting and effectively burning. This task may not be as simple as one may perceive, particularly for individuals lacking prior familiarity with the process.
In order to effectively master the firesteel, it is important to remember that while starting a fire with it may appear straightforward, without prior practice, it is likely to become a more challenging task.
A firesteel is commonly utilized in survival situations and outdoor activities to ignite fires by generating sparks. It is essentially a metal rod.
Have you attempted to start a fire using a small magnifying glass that is commonly carried in bug-out bags or EDC kits by many individuals?
Starting a fire with the sun can be challenging if you do not prepare adequately and lack knowledge about the pro tips. However, using a cheap credit card-sized Fresnel lens is more effective than a small magnifying glass, although it still necessitates the presence of dry tinder and sunlight.
Without any prior experience in using a fire drill to start a fire, immediate success is unattainable.
It is crucial to consider the correct fire drill technique, as well as the general functionality of a fire drill and the appropriate wood.
2. LEARN HOW TO FIND AND PURIFY WATER
In a survival situation, water is the crucial key element that holds significant importance for nearly every individual.
Although you can survive for a few days without water before dying of dehydration, you will rapidly become unable to function.
And this is also the main issue – within a mere 24 hours, you could potentially perish due to heat stroke or imprudent errors.
If you lack knowledge on how to correctly filter water, various harmful substances could be present that have the potential to cause fatality.
It is important to always keep in mind that you can only lift as much water as you can carry. It is advisable for everyone to have a general understanding of their destination while choosing an escape route.
If you want to have water along the way, your escape route should be planned in a way that allows you to find it, which might result in a longer escape route. However, it is worth it to have access to water during the journey.
Due to the significance of water, it is vital to have contingency plans in place for it.
It is important to become acquainted with local waterways that are not part of your planned route.
It is important to acquire the knowledge of water purification techniques without relying on a water filter, as a precaution in case the filter gets lost, stolen, or damaged.
A water filter is a device that utilizes materials such as sand, charcoal, and gravel to eliminate impurities present in water.
As previously stated, in order to boil water, one must have a fire. This method is highly efficient.
3. LEARN HOW TO GET IN SHAPE
You might possibly need to leave your residence, along with a significant amount of equipment.
In order to carry more, it is essential to be in better physical condition. Nonetheless, this is not a task that can be postponed until a crisis starts, nor is it something that can simply be learned through reading. It requires actual and frequent practice.
Taking a sequential approach, it is recommended to secure your backpack firmly onto your back and venture into diverse landscapes. Engaging in cardio exercises is suggested to enhance your lung and leg endurance.
Having good physical fitness is beneficial for self-defense. If you possess height, strength, quickness, and stamina, your odds of winning a fight are significantly higher compared to those who lack these attributes.
If you are not yet in top shape, you should consider either getting assistance from a coach to expedite the progress or at the very least search for a reputable training program to adhere to.
4. LEARN TO CONSCIOUSLY PERCEIVE YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Situational awareness can be developed by almost everyone, and it is categorized into three different levels.
To begin, it is important to take notice of the components present in a particular situation. Acquiring this knowledge is effortless as it simply entails observing one’s surroundings.
As we navigate through our daily lives, we are consistently exposed to a multitude of stimuli originating from our surroundings. Our ability to consciously perceive everything that transpires in our environment is challenged by the sheer volume of information we encounter. In order to maintain a state of consciousness regarding our surroundings, it is advisable to cultivate the practice of mindfulness. This entails remaining cognizant of the occurrences transpiring in our vicinity.
Begin by planning a visit to a previously unexplored park and settling comfortably. Dedicate a significant amount of time to meticulously scrutinize the environment while capturing memorable images using your mobile device.
After ceasing your search and putting away your phone, take a moment to jot down a thorough account of what you observed, striving to be as detailed as possible.
Once you have spent 24 hours away, repeat the same actions once you arrive back home, ensuring to list down any thoughts or observations about the park in as much detail as possible.
After thinking sequentially, analyze the photos you captured and observe for similarities to the text.
You can choose to enter the forest and find a tree to sit next to, where you can spend an hour observing the happenings around you. This designated “Sit spot” will gradually improve your focus and awareness.
Furthermore, it is essential to comprehend each existing situation. Begin acquiring the skill of not solely observing your circumstances but also interpreting them. Analyze recent events and assess the present state.
Thirdly, it is recommended to gain an understanding of the potential appearance of a future that may arise from a given situation.
So, you go one step in the opposite direction. Instead of saying “How did we get where we are now?” we ask, “What will happen next based on what I see?”
Playing chess is similar to making strategic moves with your pieces, taking into consideration not only your desired outcome but also anticipating your opponent’s potential moves.
5. LEARN TO BE AN INCONSPICUOUS PERSON
Isn’t it typically seen negatively when one considers blending in with the crowd?
Everyone desires to stand out and be unique until they find themselves in an emergency situation, where being the only one prepared is actually favorable.
As an attentive prepper, you are prepared in the event of a disaster, but how will those around you respond?
It is highly probable that they will experience panic.
When in a state of panic, individuals can experience desperation, causing them to resort to any means necessary for their survival.
At this moment, it is definitely undesirable to be the sole individual who is ready for survival.
6. LEARN HOW TO PERFORM BASIC FIRST AID
You have assembled a comprehensive first aid kit that contains all the necessary tools for the reattachment of a severed head or limb.
Have you ever actually utilized any of these items previously?
If you are unfamiliar with the equipment or do not know how to use it, there is no point in carrying it with you as it will not be helpful.
Having the ability to acquire fundamental skills for wound care is far more advantageous compared to possessing the actual tools. Various online resources provide numerous guides on techniques like suturing wounds or managing bone fractures.
When it comes to wound treatment, it is important to recognize that binding a wound and preventing bleeding is merely one aspect. Additionally, gaining knowledge on how to cleanse and ready a wound is essential.
Survival and wilderness schools offer first aid courses that teach outdoor injury response procedures.
Furthermore, it is important to remember the fundamental aspects such as basic life support, proper storage of medications, the creation and utilization of natural remedies, as well as the provision of shock treatment which involves elevating the individual’s feet and providing warmth through the use of blankets, among other methods.
7. LEARN HOW TO NAVIGATE
Navigation is frequently overlooked and disregarded.
With numerous devices and technologies available to us, the need for a physical map or compass has become almost obsolete.
The use of a map and compass is essential for navigating and can determine whether one gets lost in the wilderness or successfully finds their way back to civilization.
In a crisis situation, like a blackout or an EMP attack, it is highly likely that GPS and digital maps will not be accessible.
One should acquire the knowledge of using a compass in conjunction with a map. Acquire the skill of deciphering various types of maps, particularly topographic maps. Familiarize yourself with your locality and the neighboring areas where you might potentially require an escape route.
Take the time to learn how to read the sun and figure out the cardinal directions even without a compass. Make an effort to understand the fundamentals of celestial navigation, as this knowledge will be extremely valuable for both yourself and those around you.
8. LEARN HOW TO COOK FROM SCRATCH
Although it may seem challenging, making your own tomato sauce or pizza sauce is actually quite simple!
Although cooking from scratch involves both artistic and scientific elements, it is not necessarily challenging.
If you lack knowledge in cooking from basic ingredients, it is currently a good opportunity for you to acquire this skill.
With limited supplies, your cooking skills will guide you in maximizing their usage.
If you waste liquids or make mistakes while cooking, it will end up being quite costly.
To ensure a methodical approach, please rephrase the text below while preserving the same meaning. Remember not to add any new information or remove any existing information. Additionally, if possible, acquaint yourself with various types of outdoor stoves. “Please make sure to think sequentially as you rephrase the following text. Your aim should be to retain the original meaning without introducing any new information or removing any existing information. It is preferable if you also take some time to familiarize yourself with the different kinds of outdoor stoves available in the market.”
Acquire the skills to implement different tactics and maximize the potential of your fire and fuel.
Here’s the ultimate list of prepper skills you would thank yourself for learning
- Get a book on wild foraging and regularly go foraging for wild edibles
- Learn how to track animals
- Learn how to trap animals
- Go hunting with a rifle or bow
- Learn how to fish and go fishing
- Learn how to field dress, butcher and cook wild game
- Learn how to grow a garden
- Learn how to harvest and store seeds
- Learn how to breed and raise animals / livestock
- Learn techniques for cooking outdoors on a fire
- Learn to can foods, sauces, jams, etc
- Learn to can foods off grid (Hint: use your BBQ!)
- Learn to dehydrate food
- Learn how to make cheese
- Learn how to churn butter
- Be familiar with proper nutrition and your specific nutritional needs
- Learn to distill your own vinegar
- Make your own apple cider vinegar
- Experiment with cooking meals from your food storage
- Learn to bake various types of bread
- Learn to pressure can
- Learn to make tortillas
- Learn how to preserve eggs without refrigeration such as dehydrating, freezing, freeze drying, pickle, salt, etc.
- Learn how to preserve through pickling
- Learn various preservation methods such as salting, honey, drying, root cellar, canning, fermenting, smoking, zeer pot, underground fridge, etc.
- Learn how to render fats
- Make pemmican
- Make jerky
- Make a homemade MRE
- Learn to spear fish/bowfish
- Learn how to smoke food on and off grid
- Learn to bake without an oven
- Learn to open a can without a can opener
- Make tea from a wild edible, such as pine needles
- Learn how to sprout from seeds
- Make a fishing net
- Learn to make kombucha
- Make your own mead
- Make your own beer
- Make your own wine
- Make your own wild yeast
- Learn how to find water
- Learn how to collect water
- Learn to purify water with bleach
- Learn to purify water with sand/dirt/rocks
- Learn to purify water by filter/boiling
- Create a rainwater collection system
- Learn how to get water from your water heater
- Learn about desalinating seawater
- Learn about natural water containers such as bamboo, coconuts, cactus pads, etc.
- Research and make note of water resources outside/near your home
- Build a solar still
- Construct a primitive shelter
- Create several different types of shelters from a tarp
- Think about natural shelters in your area, such as caves
- Learn the best type of shelter for cold weather and warm weather
- Build a primitive bed up off the ground
- Learn how to dig out and build a safe fire ring
- Practice making a fire using flint and steel
- Practice making a fire by striking flint against flint
- Practice making with just natural resources
- Make a fire with a bow drill
- Practice making a fire using lens based methods
- Practice making a fire using batteries and steel wool
- Chop wood and keep plenty on hand
- Learn how to make charcoal and practice making it
- Learn how to make char cloth and then practice making it
- Make your own fire starters
- Make waterproof matches
- Test out fire making in the rain/cold/extreme heat
- Test various commercial/homemade fire starters
- Build a dakota fire hole
- Practice using a ferro rod
- Light a candle with a ferro rod
- Practice feather sticking
- Learn to make an oil or pine sap torch
- Learn to tie various knots
- Learn basic suturing techniques
- Purchase a tourniquet and learn how to use it
- Put together a first aid kit for your BOB
- Put together a thorough First Aid kit for your home
- Put together a first aid kit for your car
- Learn about Herbal Medicine and Natural Remedies
- Learn about essential oils and when and how to use them
- Learn how to make your own essential oils
- Learn to make your own salve
- Learn what to do in case of a poisonous snake bite
- Learn what to do in case of shock
- Learn pet CPR/first aid
- Learn child CPR/first aid
- Make your own bug repellent
- Take a ‘stop the bleed’ course
- Learn how to treat a sprain
- Learn how to extract a splinter properly
- Learn midwifery
- Learn how to properly splint a limb
- Know how to carry someone who is injured
- Learn how to make soap
- Make your own dry shampoo
- Make your own baby wipes
- Learn to make your own deodorant
- Learn to make your own lotion
- Learn to make your own lip balm
- Figure out alternative ways to go to the bathroom, such as with a 5 gallon bucket, outhouse, burying, etc.
- Figure out an alternative to traditional toilet paper, such as using reusable cloth, a bidet or even straw
- Learn to make your own toothpaste
- Learn to make a stick toothbrush
- Brush up on basic dental care, such as how to temporary fill a cavity, how to relieve pain, etc.
- Learn how to sew by hand
- Learn how to knit
- Learn how to crochet
- Learn how to make things from leather
- Learn how to make shoes
- Learn how to do laundry off-grid, such as with a 5 gallon bucket
- Sew cache pockets into your clothing
- If you have a baby or expecting, learn how to use and sew cloth diapers
- Learn how to leatherwork
- Learn blacksmithing
- Learn and practice signaling techniques
- Learn about CB radios and common frequencies
- Get your ham license and communicate with the ham radio
- Build a ham go box
- Learn to build your own antennas
- Figure out how to make a solar system for your house
- Make your own wind turbine
- Learn how to tell if someone is lying
- Learn to read body language
- Learn how to talk to kids before, during and after a crisis
- Make an ammo can repeater
- Practice situational awareness
- Learn how to read a city map
- Learn how to read a topographic map
- Learn how to use a compass
- Learn how to navigate with an analog watch
- Scout new areas for useful resources
- Practice prioritizing tasks
- Practice determination and perseverance by not giving up on difficult tasks and following through with decisions
- Practice slow, deliberate breathing to decrease stress and increase focus
- Practice good interpersonal skills in your day to day life
- Practice problem solving
- Learn how to teach others
- Learn to control your emotions; anger, fear, anxiety, etc
- Do something that takes you out of your comfort zone
- Go people watching
- Know how to recognize your limits to prevent emotional and physical injury
- Start keeping a regular journal
- Practice goal setting
- Practice marksmanship with a bow
- Practice marksmanship with firearms
- Learn basic hand-to-hand self-defense
- Learn evasion techniques
- Properly maintain and clean your weapons
- Practice knife throwing
- Learn to use a slingshot
- Then learn to make a slingshot from wood or other sources
- Make a bow plus the arrows from wood and/or PVC
- Fortify your home security with cameras, locks, solar lights, door jams and alarms, etc.
- Learn how to pick locks
- Learn how to break free from restraints
- Learn how to make a knife
- Learn how to make primitive stone tools
- Learn how to tan animal hides
- Whittle your own cup, spoon, etc.
- Learn to find worms for fishing bait
- Learn to hide human scent
- Learn to make cordage from nature
- Learn about natural insulation and waterproofing
- Learn to make a basket out of natural materials
- Learn flintknapping
- Learn about emergency signaling
- Learn how to find and make tinder from nature
- Learn how to identify animal tracks
- Increase your endurance by regularly walking, jogging or running
- Do regular strength training with weights or gallon water jugs
- Stretch regularly to increase mobility and flexibility
- Practice meditation for 5 minutes a day
- Understand the signs of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, fever, dysentery, hypothermia, hyperthermia, and so on.
- Run mock drills for blackout, tornado, fire, hurricane, earthquake, etc.
- Create a financial budget for weekly/monthly prepping supplies
- Budget time that you can devote to prepping each day/week/month
- Learn how to sharpen knives
- Practice negotiation skills for trading or bartering
- Learn carpentry / woodworking
- Learn how to weld
- Learn how to do basic service on your car like an oil change
- Learn to make candles
- Make things out of gorilla tape/duct tape
- Learn how to do basic maintenance around the house
- Make a maintenance kit for your bug out bag
- Learn several different types of paracord weaves
- Make EDC kits out of altoid tins
- Make a solar charger kit out of an altoid tin
- Make a fishing/hunting kit
- Make a rocket stove
- Learn how to camouflage yourself in the wild and urban
- Prepare for lights out situation in extreme heat conditions
- Prepare for lights out situation in extreme cold conditions
- Learn to make natural clay then make something from that clay
- Learn to cut your own hair as well as others
- Learn to identify good/bad snakes and spiders
- Learn how to properly store gas
- Test your rain gear
- Practice a mock bug out from your workplace
- Learn morse code
- Research crime in your neighborhood
- Learn about beekeeping
- Learn to use non-power tools
- Farm worms or crickets
- Learn how to compost
- Learn various growing methods (container, hydroponics, indoor, etc)
- Learn how and why humans do what they do and think what they think through psychology
- Learn sign language and/or hand signaling
- Learn how to read the weather
- Learn and practice good people and communication skills
- Know what you’re going to do with garbage off-grid
- Learn search and rescue markings
- Learn how to survive without a knife
- Look for trash outside and see how you could repurpose it for survival
- Learn how to climb a tree
- Learn how to barricade your home from the inside
- Get to know city/hurricane escape routes
- Find out if there are any emergency shelters in your area
- Take a walk around your neighborhood and get to know the streets, houses, escape routes, etc.
- Find and make note of at least 3 escape routes that aren’t on a freeway/highway
- Learn basic bike maintenance
- Learn how to cut paracord without a knife
- Make a knife strop
- Invest in reloading equipment and learn to reload ammunition
