by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Preparedness planning
For so long, the preparedness journey felt like one of isolation. Either due to paranoia, self-imposed design or the sheer misunderstanding of the journey or embarrassment, imposed isolation or choice – the means don’t matter as much as the fact that it can be a lonely journey…if you let it be.
At one point people who felt the need to prepare thought it was all on them alone to do so. The reality is, no one can be fully prepared, or even mostly prepared while alone or even isolated as a family. There will always be an area in which your immediate circle lacks either a skill, tangible good or ability.
Thankfully, many people are waking up to the need to prepare for an uncertain future. This helps break down the walls and create more opportunity to connect.
Take a moment to browse around this website and see all the avenues by which we at PREPARE Magazine are trying to build cost effective and free bridges to connect with others so that you can be more prepared, but not alone:
We would like to encourage everyone to connect to build those smaller communities that can bolster each other when the going gets tough. After all, most great countries were built upon the foundation of small resilient communities. Times like these show us how important it is to re-fortify that foundation!
Popular Questions
What are effective ways to connect with others while preparing for emergencies?
One effective way to connect with others is by participating in local preparedness groups or community events. These gatherings provide opportunities to share knowledge, skills, and resources with like-minded individuals. Additionally, online forums and social media groups focused on preparedness can help you find others who share your interests and concerns. Engaging in discussions and sharing experiences can foster a sense of community and support.
How can I build a support network for my preparedness journey?
Building a support network starts with reaching out to friends, family, and neighbors who may also be interested in preparedness. Organizing regular meetups or workshops can help everyone learn from each other and develop essential skills together. You can also leverage resources like webinars and online courses to connect with experts and other preparedness enthusiasts. This collaborative approach not only enhances your knowledge but also strengthens community ties.
What role do online resources play in connecting with others for preparedness?
Online resources, such as webinars and community forums, play a crucial role in connecting individuals interested in preparedness. They offer platforms for sharing information, asking questions, and learning from others' experiences. By participating in these online spaces, you can expand your network and gain insights into various preparedness strategies. This virtual connection can lead to real-world collaborations and friendships.
How can I encourage my family to connect with others in our preparedness efforts?
Encouraging your family to connect with others can start with involving them in community events or preparedness classes. Discuss the importance of teamwork and shared knowledge in enhancing your family's readiness for emergencies. You can also create family projects that involve reaching out to neighbors or joining local preparedness groups. This not only builds skills but also fosters a sense of belonging and support within your community.
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Preparedness planning
Top 10 Bushcraft Skills you need to Survive!
Did you miss it? Do not despair!
The last LIVE webinar link is ready for Premium Members to view:
Visit HERE: RECORDED WEBINAR: Top 10 Bushcraft Skills
Just log-in, go to the link above and view it! Also the hand out is available to download. Below are just a couple of the slides you’ll see in the webinar. There’s a LOT to learn here! Enjoy…
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Preparedness planning
A sign for the times. PREPARE. Notice – there is not a warning associated with that. Just prepare. For what? You may ask. For things to be atypical. We would reply. Hopeful but not typical.
We look forward to the days ahead with an actual sense of hope. Even though the hope may not be fixed on the typical status quot that historically it may have been in decades past, it is a sense of hope even of greater depth and satisfaction. The hope of a big bank accounts, luxury cars, stable jobs, a trustworthy representation within government and systems that work may be things of the past – but hope doesn’t have to become dim or grow smaller as we watch the ‘typical’ dim in our rear view mirror. Hope can be very different than what we thought it would be.
This may seem like an odd thing to be putting up on a blog. Especially a blog about preparedness. Isn’t preparedness a synonym for doomsday now days? Sadly it has been made to be connected, however, it is not an accurate assessment of what we prepare for. We prepare for hope. We prepare for sustainability. We prepare for a life more abundant and free through the difficulties rather than because of the circumstances. This is a very different way of looking at a brighter tomorrow.
Circumstantially there are many reasons to lose hope and have our emotions distracted by the negative. Reigning in our thoughts, taking them captive and focusing on what is true, noble, pure, lovely and hopeful can help us to circumvent what may appear to be chaotic circumstances around us.
It is our hope that you will see the sign of our times as a call to hope. A call to prepare with hope. A future that is more community connected, self-sustaining and grounded in depth of character. These are things to hope for. These are things to aspire to. These are just some of the things to share with others in despair. Hope can be a sign for our times.
Speaking of signs – if/when you go to an expo or a gathering or a teaching event – here is a sign to look for and find us:
We are very greatful to BuildASign.com for working with us to create this sign. They were great to work with and use of their site was easy!
In the sea of dooms-dayers, fear-mongers and panic pushers, we hope to stand apart. Our plan was that this banner would help to depict hope not fear. The folks at BuildASign.com helps us create a simple yet clear message. There is no negative connotation in the word “PREPARE” at all. It is an action verb. A call to action. The attitude behind it – is up to you.
Popular Questions
What does A Sign for the Times: PREPARE mean in today's context?
A Sign for the Times: PREPARE emphasizes the importance of readiness without fear. It encourages individuals to prepare for a future that may not align with traditional expectations, fostering a sense of hope instead of despair. This preparation is about building resilience and community connections, focusing on sustainability and abundance rather than the typical markers of success.
How can I prepare with hope as suggested in A Sign for the Times: PREPARE?
Preparing with hope involves shifting your mindset to focus on positive outcomes and community support. Engage in activities that promote self-sufficiency and sustainability, such as gardening or local volunteering. By fostering connections with others and sharing resources, you can create a network of support that thrives even in challenging times.
Why is the concept of preparing often misunderstood in A Sign for the Times: PREPARE?
Many people associate preparing with doomsday scenarios, which can overshadow the true intent of the message. A Sign for the Times: PREPARE seeks to redefine preparation as a proactive and hopeful approach to life’s uncertainties. It encourages individuals to focus on creating a fulfilling and abundant life, rather than succumbing to fear and negativity.
What actions can I take to embody the message of A Sign for the Times: PREPARE?
To embody the message, start by cultivating a positive mindset and focusing on what you can control. Engage in community-building activities, share knowledge, and support local initiatives that promote sustainability. Additionally, practice mindfulness to help navigate chaotic circumstances, allowing you to remain grounded and hopeful.
How does A Sign for the Times: PREPARE relate to community and self-sustainability?
A Sign for the Times: PREPARE highlights the significance of community and self-sustainability as essential components of a hopeful future. By preparing together, communities can build resilience against challenges and foster a sense of belonging. This collective effort not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens the fabric of society, creating a brighter tomorrow for all.
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Blog, Preparedness planning
Summer and early fall are a great time to prepare for eating local, seasonal food. What do you do when the gardens and farms around you stop producing as much food? Old Fashioned Food Preservation is a key to prolonging the harvest into other seasons year round!
You prepare for it by preserving the summer and fall harvest to use throughout the winter months. If you go blueberry picking or are finding a great deal at the local farmers market, freeze some to use in your smoothies and oatmeal throughout the year.
Think about what foods and veggies you use throughout the year that you buy canned. What frozen fruits and vegetables to you end up using when you don’t have good fresh options at the grocery store? These are the things you want to start with.
Summer and early fall are a great time to prepare for eating local, seasonal food. What do you do when the gardens and farms around you stop producing as much food? Think about what foods and veggies you use throughout the year that you buy canned. Grandma cooked mainly from local, seasonal food back in the day and can give you quite a few tips to help you get back to this way of cooking and preserving food.
Talk to farmers and other shoppers at your local farmers market and farms. Do a little research online, or pick up a food preservation book at your local library. Grandma cooked mainly from local, seasonal food back in the day and can give you quite a few tips to help you get back to this way of cooking and preserving food.
From there, start expanding each year. Keep adding a few more things each year and it won’t take you long to eat mainly local seasonal food throughout the year. Keep adding a few more things each year and it won’t take you long to eat mainly local seasonal food throughout the year.
Popular Questions
What is the fastest way to improve Use Old Fashioned Food Preservation to Eat Local, Seasonal Foods without making beginner mistakes?
The fastest way to improve Use Old Fashioned Food Preservation to Eat Local, Seasonal Foods is to simplify the process and control one variable at a time. Start with the most important baseline: define the goal, identify the main failure point, and test one change before making another. Keep short notes so you can connect the outcome to the adjustment you made. This prevents guesswork and helps you build a repeatable method instead of chasing random fixes.
What should you check first when Use Old Fashioned Food Preservation to Eat Local, Seasonal Foods is not working well?
Check the most immediate bottlenecks first: setup errors, missing inputs, bad timing, or inconsistent follow-through. Before buying anything new or changing the whole system, confirm that the basics are being done correctly and consistently. A small diagnostic checklist usually reveals the real problem faster than broad trial and error. Once the weak point is clear, make one correction and watch the result before adjusting anything else.
What common mistakes make Use Old Fashioned Food Preservation to Eat Local, Seasonal Foods harder than it needs to be?
The most common mistakes are changing too many variables at once, skipping the basics, and judging results too quickly. Many people also copy generic advice without adapting it to their exact situation, which leads to weak results and confusion. A better approach is to work from a simple baseline, make measured changes, and give each change enough time to show whether it helped. That makes progress easier to track and repeat.
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Preparedness planning
We are just MOMENTS away from sending the link to for this very important August Issue to all of our subscribers! This issue’s focus is on Alternative Health Care Options.
With Health Care an ever pressing hot topic in the political realm and the budgets of both businesses and families growing slimmer to purchase health insurance – this topic is one we at PREPARE Magazine feel is vital to your Preparedness Journey. Many of you have voiced this concern in our polls – reaching one of the TOP concerns that you feel should be addressed.
While we must tip our hats to all the contributors – please note that this is by no means a complete attempt to address the issue of Alternative Health Care. We want to let you know that this topic will be visited often throughout other issues of PREPARE Magazine.
Whether it is the alternative of using medicinal herbs, specific detail to sanitation, learning what prescriptions can be purchased early or taking preventative measures, we hope this begins to open the doors for more options for you if you are one of the MILLIONS of families trying to figure out what to do about health care in a time of ever changing potentials.
We hope this issue encourages you to seek alternatives and gain new skills to be healthy and prepared for the days ahead!
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Popular Questions
What can I expect from August's issue focusing on alternative health options?
In August's issue, we delve into various alternative health care options that are becoming increasingly relevant in today's society. With rising health care costs and the need for more accessible solutions, this issue aims to provide insights into medicinal herbs, preventative measures, and early prescription purchases. Our contributors have shared valuable information to help you navigate these options effectively. This is just the beginning of our exploration into alternative health care, which will be revisited in future issues.
How can alternative health options benefit my family's health care decisions?
Alternative health options can empower families to take control of their health care decisions, especially in a time of rising costs and limited insurance coverage. By exploring remedies such as medicinal herbs and preventative health measures, families can find cost-effective ways to maintain their well-being. This August issue highlights practical strategies that can be implemented immediately. We encourage readers to consider these alternatives as part of their overall health care strategy.
Why is alternative health care a pressing topic in August's issue?
Alternative health care is a pressing topic due to the ongoing challenges many families face with traditional health insurance. As budgets tighten, exploring alternative options becomes essential for maintaining health without breaking the bank. This issue addresses the concerns voiced by our readers, making it a timely and relevant discussion. We aim to equip you with knowledge and skills to navigate these challenges effectively.
What skills can I learn from August's issue on alternative health options?
August's issue offers a variety of skills that readers can learn to enhance their health care preparedness. From understanding the use of medicinal herbs to implementing sanitation practices, the content is designed to provide actionable insights. These skills can help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being. We hope to inspire you to seek out alternative methods that fit your family's needs.
How will future issues continue to address alternative health care?
Future issues of PREPARE Magazine will continue to explore alternative health care options, building on the foundation laid in August's issue. We recognize the importance of this topic and will feature ongoing discussions, tips, and expert insights. Our goal is to keep you informed and prepared as health care landscapes evolve. Stay tuned for more valuable content that addresses your concerns and interests.
by PREPARE | Apr 5, 2025 | emergency preparedness, Preparedness planning, preparing for disaster
Hurricane Emergency Preparedness
It is Hurricane season, and people who leave near coastal areas likely already have a Hurricane Emergency Preparedness plan. Local and National Government agencies along with insurance agencies, churches, and other non-profit and human service groups provide great information to help with Hurricane preparedness. If you live in an area that is sometimes affected by hurricanes, one of the most important things you can do to protect your family is to spend some time developing a plan. I know this, because I was ignorant and did not have a good plan in place and had to endure a terrible situation.
In 2004, my family lived in Southwest Florida and survived a direct and devastating encounter with Hurricane Charley. It was an event that changed our lives forever.
Like many people who lived in South Florida, we had basic supplies stored and ready in case we were impacted by a hurricane. We also had a general evacuation plan, but even with all the hurricanes we had encountered over the years we had never been forced or felt it necessary to evacuate. Living in Florida for years we kinda became numb to the warnings. Obviously, that was ignorant and cost us dearly.
As Charlie it made it’s way up the Florida coastline we were not in the projected path but when a sudden and dramatic turn occurred, Charlie now was barreling directly toward us with 150 mile-per-hour winds. It happened quickly and I’ll never forget the local news warnings that said “you do not have time to evacuate” so just do whatever you can to protect your life. That was a warning I hadn’t expected to hear.
Obviously, it was a pretty frantic time for our family. We grabbed the kids, huddled in a hallway, and pulled mattresses over us. As winds began quickly increasing, we could hear that damage was occurring all around us. Debris began to hammer our windows and doors as houses and structures were crushed by the fury of winds.
For several hours we were besieged by Charlie but the difficulty of that day lasted far beyond the brisk winds and heavy rains. In fact, the difficulty of that day still impacts us in profound ways.
I had always somewhat hoped to encounter a hurricane to see what it was like. Many people had talked about hurricane parties and the excitement of living through a hurricane. I was one of those people, and quickly found out how foolish I was when we were fearfully battling through the terrible storm.
The most difficult part of the hurricane came after the main force of Charlie had passed. Once the winds began to calm and we were able to emerge, we realized how fortunate we were to survive. Our roof had shifted (actually raised from the structure), our porch had collapsed, power lines were down all around us, and heavy debris was everywhere.
It was now time to deal with survival without electricity, and water. In sweltering 95 degree heat with no air conditioning, life was going to be rough. We were unable to travel because roads were littered with debris, but also there was no way of getting gas at stations without power.
For one week we battled without utilities, water, and other normal necessities. When gas stations In summary were able to open, people battled lines of traffic in order to fill their tanks and get fuel for generators. Fist fights broke-out because people were angry from their battles with terrible living conditions. National Guard units were called-in to patrol streets and maintain the peace.
The fact is, I thought my family was prepared for a hurricane. Turns out, we were only prepared to survive a minimal impacting storm. We had some food and water, but only for a few days.
Based on our difficult experience, I’d like to share some thoughts to help you better consider your hurricane preparedness plans.
If you live near the coast, you likely have a Hurricane There is nothing anyone can do when nature decides to leash out its fury. There is no way to stop it so people should heed the warnings, brace for the worse and seek shelter.
In order to minimize the loss of life, most towns and cities along coastlines have created emergency plans. Sirens are placed in strategic locations to announce a major evacuation; the emergency broadcast system is in place in the event that power and electricity has been cut off, and many agencies also stockpile food, water and medicine.
Those who live in the coastal communities will usually be battered by hurricanes. This happens between the months of June until November in the Atlantic and from May to November in the northern Pacific Ocean. When this is first spotted on radar, the forecaster will begin to inform the public about it. Obviously, hurricanes are erratic in their behavior, so it’s likely the trajectory path will not be very clear. There is no need to panic when your area is a potential target zone since weather conditions may change in the next few hours. But, begin planning and watch the system closely. If there are no improvements, it is time to activate your emergency procedures.
The hurricane may pack winds exceeding more than a 100 miles per hour which can make cars, pieces of metal, lawn furniture, trees, or wood cause severe damage to the home. It’s a good idea to board-up the windows and doors of the house with hurricane shutters and plywood. If you feel your home is secure enough and intend to stay in your home, you will need to get to the grocery store to stock up on food, water and other essentials. In addition to consumable items, you’ll also want to pick up candles, batteries for the radio and the flashlight, and fuel for the generator.
All of these things are necessary (especially water) to prevent dehydration. Water was the most essential item during our experience with Charley. People had purchased drinking water, but it simply was not enough for their needs. The sweltering heat (without air conditioning) created a far-greater need than most people had planned for. So, you will want to get plenty of water stored. In fact, you may want to fill every possible container (including the bathtub) to make certain you are able to last until utilities are restored.
Another vital item that must not be forgotten is a medical kit. This should have bandages and some antibiotics to be able to treat anyone who is ill or injured until the person can be taken to a medical facility for better treatment. If the hurricane is a devastating high-intensity storm, there may be a massive number of people overwhelming health-care facilities. Having a medical kit on hand for minor emergencies is essential.
Should the incoming hurricane be classified as a category 4 or 5, residents are advised to evacuate and seek higher ground. It will be a good idea to travel light so only a few pieces of clothing, food and water must be brought into the vehicle. It’s a good idea to have a bug-out bag (emergency backpack) always ready for a quick evacuation. In fact, you should pack several identical bags for each member of the family.
If you evacuate, you will want to leave plenty early. There will likely be heavy traffic so it is necessary to drive slowly and avoid panicking. You will not want to cause additional traffic delays by causing an accident.
The hurricane will pass within a few hours and depending on the severity of the damage you may be allowed to return home to assess damage. You’ll want to exercise extreme caution, as there will likely be broken glass or other sharp items that could cause you harm. In addition, snakes and other wild creatures may have been washed onto your property and will not be in a very good mood.
Emergency preparedness is key to properly dealing with a hurricane situation. People who live in a hurricane area typically know what to do, but may be numb to the constant warnings. Take it from a fortunate hurricane survivor and take the time to re-evaluate your hurricane preparedness plan. Also, those who are moving into the community should quickly prepare themselves and learn how to survive the onslaught of a hurricane.
My final suggestion is to rehearse your emergency preparedness plan to see if some improvements need to be made. Go through a quick evacuation plan. Practice procedures for staying in your home. You may also want to go so far as to cut off your electricity, water, and phone service to give you the full experience. This extra effort could save your life.
