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4 Things We Really Learned from Doomsday Preppers

The Nat Geo show can leave you feeling ill-prepared for disaster, but there are solid takeaways to help anyone feel more ready in case of emergency.

By Perri O. Blumberg from Reader's Digest Magazine | April 2013
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Protect Food

Preppers say: “I grow my own tobacco and sugarcane to use as barter!”  Doomsday Prepper Bryan

Experts say: We’re betting your hungry neighbors would be willing to barter for some classic boxed mac ’n’ cheese too. Store at least three weeks’ worth of canned, dehydrated, and long-shelf-life foods in your basement or closet.





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Preserve Power

Preppers say: “I can bounce radio signals off the moon and hear them back on my ham radio a few minutes later. Really!”  Doomsday Prepper David

Experts say: Leave the moon alone. For a safe supply of energy, collect plenty of AA, AAA, D, and C batteries as well as the commonly overlooked 9-volt.


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Store Water

Preppers say: “I’ve built a saltwater pool with 35,000 gallons of water that can be distilled and converted into drinking water.”  Doomsday Prepper Bob

Experts say: Don’t build a pool unless you intend to sip a cocktail in it. If you want to play it safe, store three gallons of water per person per day in a cool, dark place.



 

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Save Your Shelter

Preppers say: “I’m building a medieval castle to stay protected!” Doomsday Prepper Brent

Experts say: Hurricanes aren’t afraid of moats and drawbridges. Instead, designate a “safe spot” in the house (the most secure area is the space beneath your stairs if your stairway is connected to a wall). Keep a few plywood boards in the house—they can come in handy if you ever need to fortify the front door or windows. 


Sources: Kevin Barber, vice president of marketing for mainstreampreppers.com; James Talmage Stevens, owner of doctorprepper.com



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Your Comments

  • http://profile.yahoo.com/T5E33I5KEK52FZAQUO5L6HND4E Herewe Goagain

    Sounds like the ‘experts’ are only thinking a 1-3 day disruption. The preepers are in it for the long haul.