The Need For Survival Preparedness
Throughout history the need for survival is that of a basic instinct. Since the very minute we are born, we look for ways to stay healthy, rejuvenated and plan to stay alive as long as possible. In the times we live in; the 21st century, the world is ever changing through a magnitude of events shaping the outcome of the future. Black/Afrikan people in the diaspora have become to overly religious when it comes to thoughts and actions towards survival. Meaning that we don’t often think about worse case scenarios and what can we do to prepare for the worse. We think in times of disaster or emergencies; that a fairy tale deity will fly out the sky and save us.
If we look at the recent events of Hurricane Harvey, I can’t help but to think; how prepared were they, to deal and cope with the storm coming ahead. In my opinion preparedness comes with the ability to plan, plot and organize. People may ask; how exactly do you prepare for the worse. There’s no right or wrong answer to that question, only educated opinions. In my humble opinion I’d start by asking myself; what geographical location do I reside. Is my area a flood watch zone, do I live close to bodies of water (rivers, lakes, creeks) Do I live close to wooded areas or live close to places such as power plants, water treatment facilities, or waste dumping areas. Do I live close to mining sites (coal, oil etc) or over fly zones, close to airports.
I would then research worse case possible scenarios that could happen in these areas. Scenarios directly & indirectly related to those surrounding places. For example if one live around lots of woods; fires can spread rapidly or tress could fall under extreme winds or storms. Living near power plants or treatment facilities; one can be prone to contamination in event of an emergency. Living near an Airport could see the possibilities of a plane crash.
No one wants to think about natural disaster or emergency situations because of the stress element involved; I get it.
But what about everyday emergency situations car crashes, power outages, home invasion, fires, car stuck stranded in cold/hot conditions. How often are we prepared to deal with those factors or unfortunate events. There are several books out there on survival preparedness that one can purchase. The book in particular I recommend is: 100 Deadly Skills {Survival Edition} Guide to Surviving In The Wild and Being Prepared For Any Disaster, Clint Emerson, 2016.
Material that’s covered in the book is not entirely new or exclusive information, the concepts and training got picked up being in the military. If you have friends in the military, pick their mind on these subjects.
One of the basic things that the book mentioned, is something I already implement. 1st thing is to have a personal everyday carry kit (EDC). In the book he suggest to carry a map, handheld GPS, 2 carabiners, medical shears, small flashlight, energy bars, nalgene bottle, mace, roll of quarters, bandana, altoids tin with band aids, super glue, kevlar laces, lighter, Zebra Pen, bullet proof insert, ten feet of tubular nylon. The reason he gives for having each is: bulletproof insert turn bag into shield, mace for self defense, kevlar laces to saw through metal, coins and bandana can make crushing device. Zebra pen can be used as a sharp weapon in addition to writing.
Some things I’d suggest to add: Instead of a Zebra Pen just purchase a Tactical Pen, it can be used as a weapon, also can be use to shatter glass. Always have a multi tool device, along with a pocket knife. Make sure the pocket knife has a belt cutter on it as well. I’d also suggest carrying some alcohol to treat any potential wounds or cuts. Also a trauma pack aka quick clot. I prefer a brand called; Celox A, it can be used to treat stab wounds or gun wounds.
In your vehicle, one can carry an abundance of things, carry some warm blankets, extra set of warm clothes. Also a flare gun, air horn, whistle, duct tape, hammock, sleeping gear, flashlight, blade, MREs (meals ready to eat) lighter.
I’d also suggest everyone carry a Firearm and plenty of ammo. These essential could mean the difference between life or death, and surviving long enough to get help and assistance. Around the home, you and your family should always have an emergency plan in case of a fire, home invasion etc. Make sure your family is well prepared and on the same page in case of an emergency. If the family was to get separated, establish meeting locations to meet up etc. I also suggest all members of any household become CPR and AED certified, in case of an emergency. You become the first responder, until help arrives.
First and foremost before any of these things, make sure you’re physically conditioned to handle situations that may occur. Can you push up or pull up your own body weight? Are you able to pull or pickup heavy objects. Do you have the stamina and ability to sprint for a certain amount of time without stopping or becoming tired. These things your life may depend on, so conditioning is imperative.
To conclude my thoughts, there are many scenarios that one can prepare for. Just don’t be the person that failed to think ahead, and plan accordingly. Train and prepare like your life depends on it, because some day it might. Be certain you’ll be able to survive and tell about it afterwards.
Until next time these are my thoughts and I hope you enjoyed reading them.
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