7 Questions For Emergency Prep

Our routines have the habit of taking on lives of their own. Sometimes they function explicitly, out in the open for all to see, but they’re just as powerful quietly plugging away under the surface. If we do things a certain way for long enough these behaviors feel as normal and impervious as a certain huge crack in the earth in Arizona.

It’s natural to say that it’s always been there and will remain there, and in terms of the sweep of human history, that’s (mostly) true. The way we use our homes, workplaces, and public spaces can carry the same formidable energy.

The pandemic and other threats to our health and peace have piled additional weight onto the mountains of disruption, stress, and distraction that arthritis patients climb daily. Lately, I’ve had this sinking feeling that these stresses and economic burdens might be too much for me to handle. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings, exhale, and then get to work planning.

Here are some questions to get you started!

What are my lessons from past emergencies?

My household was caught in the midwestern regional blackout of 2021. A week in the dark gave us plenty of time to consider our shelf-stable meal options, the need to increase our cooling and charging capacities, and to boost our water reserves.

Can we reduce waste?

Did you know that Americans waste at least 1/3 (one third) of our food supply?¹ This happens in our homes, restaurants, and throughout the supply chain. There are lots of factors behind these losses.

How can we use what we already have?

I can’t deny the temptation that many of us felt to stock up on rice, beans, wipes, hand sanitizer, pasta, and sauces during the early “lock down” phase of the pandemic. I still have some refried beans, tuna, and garbanzo pasta hanging around. It’s natural to stockpile supplies at the prospect of going without, but a specific purpose and plan helps put these items to better use.

What do I need?

It’s important to consider what supplies are appropriate for your household, what you and yours want and need to eat. Gather a few item-specific recipes to make sure that whatever you do get is used and enjoyed.

How can I charge phones and devices?

My week long blackout of 2021 showed me how vulnerable our household is. Nearly everything important to us plugs in.

How will I continue to access medical care?

It’s time to confirm your access to necessary medical care. This means double checking your doc’s contact info, the dates of routine screenings, and your household’s path to COVID and Monkey Pox testing and treatment, should the need arise.

Who provides good info?

There are lots of folks building platforms and monetizing their prepper advice. Some of them provide solid tips and tricks, and some of them are scammy clickbaity trolls.

Ask yourself, does this person help me feel capable or empowered? If not, skip it. You don't need to waste any time on people who don't build you up.