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50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers Make

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers Make

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers Make

Tara Dodrill by Tara Dodrill
July 14, 2023
27
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Are you prepared for anything life throws your way? In today’s uncertain world, being equipped to handle emergencies and disasters is more important than ever.

Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just starting to build your survival skills, there’s always room for improvement.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 50 common mistakes even expert preppers make and provide practical solutions to fix them.

From overlooked essentials to ineffective strategies, we’ll uncover the pitfalls that can hinder your preparedness efforts. Whether it’s stockpiling the wrong supplies, neglecting important skills, or underestimating potential threats, we’ll address each issue head-on and offer expert advice to help you correct and enhance your survival plan.

Mistakes Related To Food Storage And Preparation

One of the most common mistakes preppers make is not properly storing and preparing food for long-term survival.

While stockpiling canned goods and non-perishables is a good start, it’s important to consider factors such as shelf life, nutritional value, and variety.

1. Overlooking Proper Rotation Of Stock

One of the most common mistakes is neglecting the rotation of food items. Not rotating your stock can result in food spoiling beyond its expiration date, rendering it unfit for consumption.

To avoid this mistake, utilize the “first in, first out” method. Additionally, employ an inventory system or labeling method to easily track the expiration dates of your supplies.

2. Improper Storage Techniques

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers MakeImproper storage techniques can quickly compromise the quality of your food supply. Common mistakes include using inappropriate containers, poor sealing, and inadequate considerations for temperature and humidity.

Related: 5 Food Storage Myths That Are Ruining Your Stockpile

3. Neglecting Variety and Nutritional Balance

Amidst the focus on long-term preservation, preppers often overlook the importance of a well-rounded stockpile. Relying solely on canned goods or processed foods lacks the necessary nutritional balance for sustained survival.

Include a variety of food groups in your storage, such as grains, legumes, protein sources, fruits, and vegetables.

4. Improper Meal Planning And Cooking Knowledge

You should not only stockpile food, but also have the ability to prepare them into nourishing meals. Ignoring this aspect leads to limited cooking options, bland meals, and potential wastage.

Create a meal plan based on the types of food you have in your stockpile. Research and practice recipes that incorporate different ingredients, taking advantage of the resources you have available.

5. Failure To Develop Preservation Skills

Successful prepping involves learning and practicing preservation techniques to extend the shelf life of fresh ingredients or perishable goods. Neglecting these skills can limit your food options during emergencies.

Consider growing your own fresh produce and learning basic food preservation techniques such as canning and dehydrating.

Mistakes Related To Water Procurement And Purification

Another common mistake preppers make is not having a sufficient water supply or failing to properly purify water sources.

6. Over Reliance On Stored Water

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers MakeSome preppers rely solely on stored water without considering the need for replenishment in prolonged emergencies.

Establish a water collection system, such as rainwater harvesting, to supplement stored water. Utilize appropriate filtration techniques to purify the collected water.

⇒ Learn How To Build Your Own Rainwater Harvesting And Purification System

7. Insufficient Water Storage

Inadequate stored water means potential shortage and increased vulnerability during emergencies.

Calculate the daily water needs, minimum of one gallon per person, and store ample supplies for a protracted duration.

8. Neglecting Water Quality

Contaminated water can lead to illnesses, reducing physical ability during a crisis.

Regularly rotate stored water, employing a “first in, first out” system to maintain freshness. Use water treatment solutions such as chlorine or water stabilizers to prevent bacteria growth.

9. Lack Of Water Procurement Knowledge

The inability to obtain or purify water effectively can be life-threatening during emergencies.

Research local water sources, such as rivers, streams, or lakes, and learn appropriate purification methods. Carry essential water purification tools like portable water filters or chemical disinfection tablets.

10. Failure To Filter Sediment

Sediment can clog filters and render purification methods ineffective. Utilize a sediment filter or allow water to sit, allowing the sediment to settle before proceeding with purification techniques.

11. Overlooking Boiling As A Purification Method

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers MakeBoiling is highly effective in killing most pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, and is cost-effective.

Have a reliable heat source and equipment capable of boiling water. Maintain a rolling boil for at least one minute, or three minutes at higher altitudes, to ensure water safety.

12. Ignoring The Importance Of Water Disinfection

Waterborne diseases, such as cholera or typhoid, can weaken individuals and diminish their ability to survive during emergencies.

Utilize effective water disinfection methods, such as chlorine or iodine tablets, careful UV light exposure, or chemical disinfectants like bleach. Follow expert guidelines on concentration and contact time.

13. Not Planning for Water Filtration Breakdowns

Water filtration equipment may break or become unusable during emergencies, causing uncertainty and health risks.

Always keep backup water filters and alternative purification methods in your emergency supplies. Learn primitive water filtration techniques like improvised charcoal filters.

14. Failing To Educate On Alternative Water Sources

Limited knowledge and access to alternative sources may result in a missed opportunity to procure adequate water during crises.

Learn about underground water sources like wells and how to access and purify this water.

15. Ignoring Proper Hygiene And Sanitation Practices

Poor sanitation can lead to the contamination of water supplies and the spread of diseases within the community.

Related: 4 Diseases That Could Become Deadly After SHTF

Include hygiene supplies (e.g., soaps, sanitizers, toilet paper) in your preparedness kit. Establish basic sanitation practices like using designated toilet areas and practicing proper handwashing techniques.

Mistakes Related To Shelter And Emergency Supplies

When it comes to shelter and emergency supplies, many preppers make the mistake of focusing solely on temporary solutions rather than long-term sustainability.

16. Not Thinking Long-Term

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers MakeWhile having a tent or a temporary shelter is important for immediate needs, it’s equally important to have a plan for long-term shelter in case of a prolonged crisis.

Invest in durable and sustainable shelter options such as a well-insulated cabin or a converted shipping container.

Consider stockpiling essential emergency supplies such as firewood, tools, and extra clothing to ensure you’re adequately prepared for extended periods of survival.

Mistakes Related To Self-Defense And Personal Safety

In a survival situation, personal safety is paramount. However, many preppers make the mistake of not adequately preparing for self-defense or neglecting to acquire the necessary skills to protect themselves and their loved ones.

17. Overemphasis On Gear

In a critical situation, relying solely on gear without the necessary skills may result in a false sense of security, leading to increased vulnerability and potential harm.

⇒ A US Army Officer’s Field Guide to Surviving a New Civil War

Prioritize comprehensive training that covers situational awareness, threat assessment, unarmed combat techniques, and improvised weapon usage.

18. Lack Of Realistic Training

Many preppers solely rely on theoretical knowledge and fail to participate in realistic training scenarios. Without practical experience, preppers may struggle to adapt and respond effectively during high-stress situations.

In a real-life scenario, the absence of realistic training can hinder effective decision-making, coordination, and execution, compromising personal safety and self-defense effectiveness.

19. Neglecting Physical Fitness

Preppers often underestimate the importance of physical fitness. Maintaining an adequate level of physical strength, endurance, and flexibility is crucial for self-defense.

Poor physical fitness can limit your ability to evade or escape threats, endure extended periods of physical stress, and effectively execute self-defense techniques.

20. Avoiding Legal Knowledge

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers MakeUnderstanding local laws pertaining to self-defense is paramount for responsible preppers. Ignorance of these laws may lead to unintended legal consequences, despite acting in self-defense.

Related: 14 Self Defense Items You Should Never Have Around

Engaging in self-defense actions without a thorough understanding of the law can have severe legal implications, resulting in criminal charges, civil lawsuits, or both.

21. Neglecting De-escalation And Conflict Resolution Skills

A lack of de-escalation and conflict resolution skills may escalate minor disputes into life-threatening situations, compromising personal safety, and potentially leading to severe legal ramifications.

Learning how to recognize and control escalating situations can significantly enhance your ability to avoid confrontation and ensure personal safety.

Mistakes Related To Medical Preparedness

Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared to address them is crucial for survival.

22. Neglecting First Aid Skills

In an emergency, a prepper without first aid training may mistakenly apply a tourniquet too tightly, leading to injury or even amputation.

Acquire first aid training from reputable organizations  and regularly practice and refresh these skills.

23. Insufficient Medical Supplies

50 Mistakes Even The Most Advanced Preppers MakeA prepper, solely focused on physical injuries, fails to account for a common infection outbreak, resulting in inadequate antibiotic supplies or other necessary medications.

Related: How To Properly Store Over-The-Counter Drugs And Medical Supplies

24. Lack Of Continuity Of Care

Neglecting pre-existing conditions or failing to address chronic illnesses properly can have serious consequences during a crisis.

Prioritize continuity of care by acquiring an extended supply of necessary medications, seeking advice from healthcare professionals on alternative options, maintenance procedures for medical equipment, and developing contingency plans for regular checkups or treatment.

25. Ignoring Mental Health Preparations

Surviving a crisis involves not only physical resilience but also mental fortitude. Preppers often overlook the importance of mental health preparedness, assuming they can handle stressful situations without consequence.

Mistakes Related To Communication And Information Gathering

In a survival situation, communication is key. However, many make the mistake of not having a reliable communication plan or failing to gather essential information during normal times.

26. Overlooking Communication Plan Development

The lack of a communication plan can lead to confusion, overlapping messages, delays in support coordination, and difficulties in locating or contacting family members, group members, or emergency services.

It’s best to develop a written communication plan that includes designated primary and alternative communication methods, emergency contact numbers, meeting points, and a clear communication hierarchy.

27. Failure To Diversify Communication Methods

One of the most significant mistakes is relying solely on one method of communication, such as cell phones or internet-based messaging platforms. In emergency situations, these modes of communication may become unreliable due to power outages, network congestion, or physical infrastructure damage.

Restricted communication options can isolate you from vital information, hinder coordination with family or group members, and limit access to emergency services.

28. Neglecting Regular Information Updates

Another common mistake is failing to stay informed about ongoing events, news, and local emergency protocols. In times of crisis, information and situational awareness are key to making informed decisions and taking appropriate actions.

Related: Best Methods To Spot Fake News

You should actively seek out information from reliable sources.

29. Failing To Secure Sensitive Information

Unauthorized access to personal information can lead to identity theft, financial loss, or manipulation of vital records, reducing preppers’ ability to access resources or assistance during emergencies.

Store sensitive information in secure, waterproof containers like fireproof safes or lockable bags.

30. Neglecting Interpersonal Communication Skills

Poor interpersonal communication skills can lead to misunderstandings, increased stress levels, conflicts within groups or families, and breakdowns in collaborative decision-making.

Joining prepper groups can provide opportunities for interpersonal skill development and enhance overall preparedness efforts.

Mistakes Related To Community And Networking

Surviving alone is challenging, and many make the mistake of not prioritizing community and networking. Building a strong support system can significantly enhance your chances of survival and provide a sense of belonging during difficult times.

31. Neglecting To Establish Connections

In a disaster scenario, trying to do it alone for a long period can quickly become overwhelming and unsustainable.

Attend local emergency preparedness groups, community events, and neighborhood gatherings to meet like-minded people who share your commitment to preparedness.

32. Hoarding Without Reciprocity

Becoming known as the “lone wolf” prepper can deter others from wanting to collaborate and form mutually beneficial alliances. Foster a spirit of reciprocity by sharing skills, knowledge, and resources, and trade surplus items with others in your community, without disclosing the full extent of your preps.

33. Complete Secrecy

Building trust becomes difficult, hindering effective collaboration and shared preparation efforts.

Start small by sharing basic preparedness information and gradually build trust within your community.

34. Mistake: Ignoring The Skills And Knowledge Of Others

Failure to tap into the diverse expertise within your community can limit your ability to thrive during a crisis.

Identify the skills and knowledge present in your community, you might learn new and helpful information from others.

35. Failure To Organize And Communicate

Poorly organized efforts lead to missed opportunities, inefficiency, and potential conflicts.

Establish clear communication channels with your family and create a plan for coordinated action during emergencies.

36. Relying Solely On Online Communities

When the internet is down or in a localized disaster, your virtual community may not be able to provide the necessary support and assistance.

Balance online networking with building face-to-face relationships within your local community.

Mistakes Related To Mental And Emotional Preparedness

Surviving a crisis requires not only physical preparedness but also mental and emotional strength. However, many preppers make the mistake of neglecting their mental and emotional well-being.

37. Neglecting Mental Health

One of the most common mistakes preppers make is overlooking the importance of mental health. In high-stress situations, mental fortitude is paramount.

Related: These 10 Types of People Will Die First When SHTF

Mental health maintenance, through practicing self-care, seeking therapy if needed, and adopting healthy coping mechanisms, equips preppers with the resilience to face challenges head-on.

38. Focusing Only On Physical Preparedness

While physical preparedness is crucial, placing disproportionate emphasis on it can lead to the neglect of mental and emotional readiness.

39. Ignoring Emotional Intelligence

Developing emotional intelligence is vital for managing relationships, conflicts, and stress. Understanding and regulating emotions enhances problem-solving ability during times of crisis.

40. Overloading On Negative News

Overconsumption of pessimistic news can trigger anxiety and despair. Balance the intake of information by staying informed but setting limits on news consumption. Focus on actionable information and positive stories to maintain a healthy mindset.

41. Underestimating The Importance Of Community

Preppers often fall into the trap of isolating themselves, emphasizing self-reliance. However, fostering a strong community creates a support network during challenging times.

Engage with like-minded individuals, join prepper groups or participate in community initiatives.

42. Rigid Planning And Unrealistic Expectations

While planning is essential, being overly rigid can impede adaptability. Be prepared for unexpected obstacles and be willing to revise plans if needed. Employ a flexible mindset to adapt to evolving situations effectively.

43. Lack Of Practice And Skills Development

Merely acquiring knowledge about survival skills is not enough. Practice regularly to develop proficiency and increase confidence. Cultivate a growth mindset and embrace ongoing learning to bolster resilience and problem-solving abilities.

44. Failure To Cultivate A Sense Of Purpose

Having a clear sense of purpose not only provides motivation but also guides decision-making during difficult times. Reflect on personal values and align prepping efforts with these principles to foster a strong sense of purpose.

45. Neglecting Mental Imagery And Positive Visualization

Visualization is a powerful tool to enhance mental preparedness. By mentally rehearsing challenging scenarios and visualizing positive outcomes, individuals can cultivate a calm and focused mindset during stressful situations.

46. Inadequate Separation Of Prepper Identity From Day-to-Day Life

It is crucial to strike a balance between preparedness efforts and maintaining a fulfilling daily life. Avoid becoming consumed by prepping to the extent that it detracts from personal relationships, career, hobbies, and overall well-being.

47. Unrealistic Expectations Of Others

Preppers often face criticism or ridicule from friends and family, leading to frustration and strained relationships. Recognize that everyone’s journey is different, and it is not necessary for others to share the same level of commitment to preparedness. Focus on leading by example and offering support when needed.

48. Financial Overextension

Reckless spending on prepping supplies can lead to financial stress and strain. Develop a realistic budget, prioritize essential items, and gradually build supplies over time. Emphasize quality over quantity and focus on necessary skills and knowledge, which can often be acquired at minimal cost.

49. Failing To Seek Professional Advice

Preppers often rely solely on their own knowledge or opinions found online. Seek the guidance of professionals in areas such as mental health, disaster preparedness, and relationship building to bolster preparedness efforts. Remember, there is no shame in seeking expert advice.

50. Lack Of Self-Reflection And Adaptation

Continual self-reflection helps identify areas for growth and improvement. Regularly assess and adjust mental preparedness strategies, recognizing that personal circumstances, goals, and challenges evolve over time.

Survival preparedness is a lifelong journey, and even expert preppers make mistakes along the way. By identifying and addressing these mistakes head-on, you’ll be able to enhance your preparedness efforts and become a more effective survivalist.

From food storage and self-defense to medical preparedness and mental well-being, each aspect of survival planning plays a vital role in your overall resilience.

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Comments 27

  1. Tommy says:
    2 years ago

    Everyday we are getting closer to the (SHTF) moment of what we call end of days.
    Don’t care, unless you have the money to be totally prep complete. We will never be 100% done or secure in our selves.

    We also must stop and smell the roses along the way.
    At what point did you decide to prep and what for?
    As we summon the demon of AI into our lives willing or not by government agencies. Do we have choice in certain matters or situations?

    The banks report personal information to agencies like the FBI. We got the transitioning of fiat currency that was backed by gold, now by gas and oil. China, Russia and other countries have stocked up on gold. In preparation to end the USD. The Trojan Horse in the DC Swamp is crumbling America’s strength. The Ukraine War is depleting our military assets to defend the homeland. Which is quite possible from China.
    We got a dumb down young population demanding college loans be forgiven by the taxpayer. Senior citizens being driven out of their homes by taxes, to live on the streets.
    While the Southern Border illegals get free housing, food, schooling at our expense.
    AI and digital money tied into the American style of the Chinese social credit system.
    All those home security systems are made in China the data goes to China.

    We are living in 1984, most people are asleep to what is going on. As mentioned of the Rapture, we maybe close to it. Or close to the beginnings of something very awful.
    We can worry about mankind’s fear mongering or live our best in the coming future.
    There is no guarantees from being dependent on any government.
    People have lost their faith in GOD and themselves.
    What will you do to be at peace in this world of chaos?

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    • Wood Stock says:
      2 years ago

      It is a perfect storm that is forming – a most exciting time to be alive and see the buildup to what is coming. A chance to stand in the gap and be a watchman on the wall, also.
      I’ve been on mission trips to more than a few countries, and I will say that immigrants – many of them grow up poor or in a war zone, likely both. They are desperate to get to the land of opportunity. They come to the US and work hard, pay their taxes, and generally contribute instead of taking handouts. They make good Americans. Some do not, but I feel that the majority do, even when they come by alternative means. I don’t think bad immigrants are any worse than the percentage of people born here who murder, steal, lie, seek perpetual intoxication, rape, rob, or wouldn’t work in a pie factory tasting pies.
      In many poor places outside the US, they are honestly hungry for the gospel of Jesus Christ. Here, most either could care less, or prefer a thin veneer of Christianity instead of being really born again.

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      • Tommy says:
        2 years ago

        Missionaries have some good to do in this world. Many countries know they can have so many immigrants and illegals entering their countries. Before their systems become overburden, clogged up with welfare freeloaders.

        America is seeing the same thing happen under the clown or puppet regime under the Chinese influence. We have a real Manchurian Candidate in charge of America.

        The Open Southern even before this clown happened. We have Christian church groups aiding and abetting non-citizens into America. Whose country is this? Sure we are a country of immigrants but not letting in willy nilly everyone under the sun. We have limitations too, what about our existing American citizens being treated as first citizens, then second or third class citizens?

        We can take so many travelers into the INN before our economy crashes and burn. Do-gooders have some part of the blame.
        If people are seeking compassionate help, why can’t they fix their country up first?
        We got Sheeple here that vote for radical Marxist lately. We should and must fix our country first before we can help others in need. Religion and politics are great dividers of Americans in today’s liberal environment.
        We can part ways by agreeing to disagree on some points.

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      • Vernard says:
        2 years ago

        Why a Watchman? We used to have people, men of action jumping in to help a fellow man or woman in need. Today we have Watchmen on the wall do nothings, they whip out their camera phones. Upload the video to get many likes on social media. Then jump in to help out a victim of a crime or an accident.
        Too many so called Sheeple, as mentioned on these posts, wimpism.

        America is drowning in helping others than helping themselves build a better America first. Like Popeye and Brutus cartoons, there is a battle for America’s soul. Wokeism is America’s Kryptonite. The Woke stoked university, college, grade school, kindergarten, even preschoolers are being Marxist trained.

        We need to return to our founding fathers foundations of America. Pray for our country first to heal. Be doers not watchmen on the wall of hopelessness.

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      • Wood Stock says:
        2 years ago

        The watchman I refer to is found in Ezekiel 33, Vernard. If you read that, you’ll understand it is about more than just watching.

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      • Sheeple says:
        2 years ago

        To Wood Stick –
        All in all Bible thumpers quoting verses are just as annoying as the trolls who dare post.

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    • John says:
      2 years ago

      How many times do we have to rehash these lists for the majority of the preppers here?
      We can’t save the whole world, we will ruin our health in doing so.

      Rich and poor, smart and dumb or stupid have been on this planet before and after. Jesus Christ walked the earth. He did not save the world from stupidity and ignorance.
      He saved us from original sin, broke the chains of satan.

      What we prep for is an extension of earthly life to sustain the mind and body. We are not really prepping for the afterlife. That is totally separate from what this survival website is about.
      We can be religious but not to be obsessive about it. Prepper’s get too focused on certain parts of the whole. Miss the forest, focused on the trees. We need to see the whole picture in respective to our life on planet earth. Earth is not our true home.

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    • scout says:
      2 years ago

      potable water, or the lack of, is going to be the demise of many in a long term grid down event within just a few weeks.
      i hope everyone here has planned ahead for that

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    • Carol L says:
      2 years ago

      @ Tommy: I agree until the next to last sentence: “People have lost their faith in GOD and themselves.
”
      I have not, nor ever will loose faith in GOD!
      I don’t put faith in myself, but only in God, and although I may waver the worse things get, I will always trust Him and have faith that HE is in charge, NOT our country, the borders, the USD (or cryptocurrency), AI, China, “Russia”, or any other country or ruler.
      God is over all, the Beginning and the End. He has my Faith until the end.

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  2. 2030 says:
    2 years ago

    This is one of the best articles I’ve seen regarding realistic survival planning. All points are excellent, but points 30-50 should be taken to heart, double-dosed. I wish they had been at the top because too many of us scan, rather than read. The coming Great Correction will be a spiritual challenge as well as a physical challenge. Good mental health, plus human and spiritual connection will be essential to get through it. This article is worth printing and posting on a wall as a checklist.

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    • Tommy says:
      2 years ago

      #49 Failing to seek professional help, agree to disagree on that.
      We place too much finesse on trusting a mental healthcare doctors. This part of the mental healthcare system has people as doctors that are not up to there own standards. Some are plain crazy, the blind leading the blind so to speak of.

      As America becomes more secular than a Christian society we have people being drugged on big pharma. Then placing our problems in GOD, the universal healer of mankind.

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      • Vernard says:
        2 years ago

        Agree! America has become a nation of pill poppers. The article has some flaws but generally a decent list. We need a nation that stands tall against foreign and domestic influencers who lean towards no borders, no English standards and the American Culture. Sure America has had it’s moments of bad decisions. America has also corrected them too.
        We got too many crybabies, then people who suck it up an drive on.
        Yes the World War 2 generation has more testosterone, even the women had more balls than the wimps of today’s generations have. Stop Marxism!

        Why do you think illegals come across the open Southern border. They still believe the American Dream is here.
        We born on American soil, have had the brow beating from liberals to see America as a loser. It’s the modern liberals who are the real losers. Not us.
        Drill for oil and build the Southern Border Wall ASAP!
        Unions are a cancer in America, they strike for BS. The average worker gets pennies on the dollar while the union bosses live it up wealthy.
        Unions have become what the were against, like the Mafia stronghold was on jobs. Not unions are a burden on America. Including the Bike Mafia, social justice freaks and Greenie environmentalist mafia.

        Is America ready for a sweeping change or wimp out to the liberals again?

        America was and is a leader of the free world, not with the DC Swampy garbage in control. Vote those liberals out, demand a strong America First Attitude!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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    • Johnny Quest says:
      2 years ago

      Are you sure you want to stake your life on the last part of the list?
      Spiritual or not you been drinking some gender kool aid of double down dosed garbage.
      Your believing in what someone thought was good thought, this stuff is generalities.

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    • Sheeple says:
      2 years ago

      2030 is just a speed bump to 2050 where the SHTF explodes into America’s undoing.
      Lists!, lists we don’t need no stink’in lists!
      If you don’t have the commonsense WHEREWITHAL now, You won’t get it period.
      We’re better off taken a double shot of Jack D., instead, take a load off. Sit a spell, ya’ll comeback now, ya’ll hear.

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  3. Paul upstate NY says:
    2 years ago

    I could repeat the other notes, they hit the nail on the head. BIG kudo’s to the author in a very full, detailed coverage. I can add nothing to what he has written.

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    • Taco Montoya says:
      2 years ago

      Yo’ll are reading a twisted listed of compromises. The article does not go into detail of what they think is important. People make mistakes everyday. It will happen many times in our lives. Lists are for losers. Think this website has run out of ideas to post.

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  4. Laura says:
    2 years ago

    The list is what the last two century’s average Americans would do daily in their life. The list is more or less commonsense, no longer in America.
    Some points on the list can be debated for clarity than totally agreeing to all of the list.
    I agree with part of the list, it shows how far we have sunk. That it needs to be repeated in this article. Guess the population has been dumb downed a lot for decades, it shows.

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  5. Lisa Blake says:
    2 years ago

    Can we separate prepping from the Bible Thumping, these are two conflated issues.
    Yes God is in charge, we are not!
    There is a lot suggested of mental health.
    Watching the “Alone” TV series, how long do people think they could last in the wilderness? We see there is an emotional breakdown of the contestants. Would it be any different alone or with a community? In SHTF you can never go home again. Your home has squatters who won’t move.

    A community eventually breaks down, usually it’s some deranged psycho female that cannot handle the daily stress. These are the nuts that need pills and some mental health doctor. That places them on a lifetime of health destroying drugs.
    How strong are you mentally?

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  6. JanH says:
    2 years ago

    Thank you for this excellent article! This is definitely a check list to keep around and review regularly!

    Did you like this comment? 3
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  7. orion says:
    2 years ago

    Most of these mistakes are basic common sense, and a reminder on occasion is a good idea. Though, I take issue with one category on this list

    [20. Avoiding Legal Knowledge ……. Understanding local laws pertaining to self-defense is paramount for responsible preppers. Ignorance of these laws may lead to unintended legal consequences, despite acting in self-defense.]

    In my understanding of SHTF … most man written laws, will be unenforceable, and of little use. When people are hungry, and suffering, survival is the law of the land … for all aspects of life, from the greatest of armies, to the family or lone man. Do you sincerely think, “you have food, I don’t so I intend to take you food, if it means killing you so be it” won’t be the law of the land? There will be we with morals, who will refrain from taking a life, except to protect our own … but I can assure you, that there will be persons who will see you snacking on a can of collected fresh crickets, and kill you for what you have left in the can. I know personally people who will do that and not think twice.

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    • Lisa Blake says:
      2 years ago

      Agree, the Bible thumpers might be the first causalities whether they give food or not to the hungry souls. They will have a hesitation to shooting someone taking their food preps. One of the commandments is Thou Shall Not Kill, but the Bible didn’t mention things like SHTF.
      The rich and wealthy will laugh as the lower levels of society duke it out for food.
      United Nations elite say we have to eat bugs, be vegetarians. While Microsoftie Gates buys farms up to supply the elite for food. China does the same, except they ship it back to China.
      How dumb are Americans and letting elected politicians sellout America?

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    • Lisa Blake says:
      2 years ago

      It’s a rehash of Captain Obvious Murphy’s Law anecdotes of commonsense.
      Best article foe newbies beginners in prepping.

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      • Christopher Freeman says:
        2 years ago

        Habbits are learned
        Training is renewed
        and practice is practiced
        you cannot relearn too many time s
        when it happens you will be prepared and you will not be able to relearn
        no internet
        no tv , just propaganda from the state TV , Internet , controlled sites
        marshall Law will dictate a new kind of obedience and loyalty
        like the bible says clearly : brother against brother, mother against children , children against parents , and family loyalty will be no more
        need will dictate , loyalty
        Greed, Lust, self centered desire will prevail when under marshall law
        God keeps mankind in control and held back , nothing more
        Fear of consequence
        Fear of judgement
        Fear of payment for sin.
        When this is Gone it will be every person for themselves

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  8. gad7 says:
    2 years ago

    I do not know if this fits as being over looked. I have een people oreo and use old clothes. I thought about it and realized WHy would I want old clothes. so I started outfitting my bags with new clothes. I mean I would rather have cloths that will last and not be thread bare because they were used for a year. I also make sure they fit. 2 new jeans 4 shirts and who knows how many socks.

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    • Sheeple says:
      2 years ago

      The real street people will know your not one of them dressed in old clothes to fit in.
      You can look the part until you open your mouth. They will see right through you as fake.
      Get real pal!

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  9. Christopher Freeman says:
    2 years ago

    Importance of Paying Attention to Detail
    Watching , Waiting, for the time is near
    Look at the signs, symptoms , consequences
    very good article above and says it all
    Time is approaching fast
    if you believe , Trust , Follow the wisdom of the bible, Jesus Christ , and Gods holy word
    Seek like you really want to know , you will find truth, learn the truth , see the difference
    Very important to practice good health , habbits, daily prayer
    Health is practiced , Not just given to all
    something s are inherited , you did not deserve or work for it, or the reward or consequence
    The Word of God says clearly to all who read and seek out truth
    There is a way that seems right to mankind , the ways of the state , the godless leader s
    the money kings, money seekers, money greed lover s of self, pleasure, lust
    The way of this , end is death , eternally
    Way of escape is : Relationship , forgiveness , change of life thru, in Jesus Christ
    When this Happens you will experience a newness of life , change in attitude, change in desire, change in life style , wont like the same things
    The Holy Spirit will dwell in you and the blood of the lamb of christ will cover you and make intercession for you to God , who is Holy and cannot dwell with sinfull mankind , no exception
    All Are Sinful mankind , Jesus is the Sacrafice for all to come to the father .
    Love is NOT Lust , is NOT self , is NOT greedy selfish works of Ego , pride and narcisism
    Forgiveness is Gods Love , Sacrafice for Sin

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  10. Shaun says:
    2 years ago

    This IS a good list, but the title misses the mark. While it is true that SOME of the “most advanced preppers” might miss some of these, the majority of those who are truly serious about prepping won’t make the mistakes. They might not get to everything due to a lack of time finances or physical ability, but not as “mistakes”.
    I consider myself someone trying hard to be ready for the more likely issues, but with all the other events happening in my (and my families’) life, there really isn’t time to delve into ALL of these lifestyle altering practices. It’s difficult enough coming up with the bigger basics (for us a real biggie is our current location isn’t prepper friendly, yet we haven’t had the chance yet to relocate) and still afford to put food on the table or get the laundry done or visit with the family and friends like we ought/want to be doing, there’s simply not that many hours a week or that we have the energy for.
    Not to mention the hours of reading(like sites like this), practicing to be proficient at preserving foods or sending lead downrange, or retracing our hopeful evacuation routes and checking on caches we may have hidden out there. BTW, unless I messed it, ought not THAT be on the list, too? Double checking the routes and refreshing caches? Even something as simple as the county adding a traffic signal light can alter the congestion on a road intersection, mitigating that part of a travel plan.
    Nonetheless, it IS A GOOD LIST, thanks. It’s just MY OPINION that it could do with a slightly different title.

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