Choosing the Right Spot
Security Considerations
The foundation of any effective survival base is its location. A poorly chosen site can undermine even the most well-equipped preparations. Careful consideration of several critical factors is paramount.
Security is the paramount consideration. Start by assessing the terrain. Look for elevated ground, which offers a natural advantage in terms of both visibility and drainage. Natural barriers, such as rivers, cliffs, or dense forests, can act as invaluable defensive features, making access for unwanted intruders more difficult.
Consider the degree of concealment. The ability to remain unseen is critical. Opt for locations distanced from major roads and highly visible areas. Assess the opportunities for camouflage; a location blending into the surrounding environment offers enhanced security.
Accessibility presents a crucial balancing act. The site needs to be easily accessible for initial setup, bringing in materials and supplies, but also challenging for anyone who might want to access it without permission. Consider access roads, pathways, and the ease with which you can control entry and exit.
Don’t underestimate the influence of your neighborhood. Research potential threats: crime rates, local gangs, and the likelihood of civil unrest. Assess the existing community support system. A supportive community can be invaluable in a crisis, while an uncooperative or hostile environment poses a significant risk.
Resource Assessment
Now shift your focus to resource assessment. Water is the lifeblood. Analyze potential water sources: rivers, lakes, springs, or the possibility of harvesting rainwater. Thoroughly understand the reliability and sustainability of your chosen water source.
Assess the potential for food production. Can you cultivate a garden? Is there potential for hunting, fishing, or foraging in the area? The ability to produce your own food is a cornerstone of long-term survival.
Fuel is essential. Analyze the availability of firewood, the potential for solar power generation, and the feasibility of other alternative energy sources. Consider the long-term sustainability of your fuel supply.
Finally, examine the availability of building materials. Are there ample supplies of timber, stone, or other construction resources within a reasonable distance? The ability to repair, expand, and rebuild your base will depend on access to these resources.
Environmental Concerns
Environmental concerns must not be ignored. Identify potential natural hazards: flood zones, the risk of earthquakes, and the potential for wildfires. Understand the local climate and its implications. Prepare for temperature extremes and seasonal changes, tailoring your shelter and supply storage accordingly.
Shelter and Structures: Building Your Haven
Primary Shelter
Shelter is your primary protection. Focus on a durable, secure, and insulated structure. Prioritize weather resistance; it must withstand high winds, heavy rain, and potential snow. The structural integrity must be robust enough to endure the worst conditions.
Ensure security. This involves protecting against potential intruders, secure windows, and sturdy doors. Consider adding security features such as reinforcement and surveillance.
Insulation is crucial for temperature regulation. It keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, significantly improving comfort and reducing energy demands.
The size of the shelter should be appropriate for the number of people it will house and the amount of storage it requires. Plan for enough space for living, sleeping, and storing essential supplies.
Secondary Structures
Beyond the primary shelter, consider secondary structures. A separate storage structure is invaluable for food, tools, and equipment. This frees up space in your main dwelling and protects your vital supplies from weather and theft.
A dedicated workshop is another useful addition. This space is essential for repairs, construction, and ongoing maintenance.
A gardening area or greenhouse can significantly enhance your food production capabilities, and potentially extend the growing season.
Depending on circumstances, consider animal pens or coops for raising livestock, providing a crucial food source.
Water: The Lifeblood of Your Survival Base
Gathering Water
Without clean water, survival is nearly impossible. A reliable water supply is non-negotiable. Explore various methods of gathering water, starting with rainwater harvesting. Implement a system that includes gutters, storage tanks, and effective filters.
If other sources are available, such as wells, springs, or rivers, assess their potential. Obtain the necessary equipment for water extraction, be it a pump or a manual drawing system.
Purification is critical. Have multiple purification methods: effective filtration systems, the ability to boil water, and chemical treatments such as chlorine or iodine tablets.
Water Storage
Water storage is key to long-term survival. Use secure storage containers that are food-grade and resistant to leaks. Develop a system for long-term water preservation, including regular monitoring and replenishment.
Water Conservation
Water conservation must be practiced at all times. Consider greywater systems, where water from sinks and showers is recycled for non-potable uses, like irrigation. Ensure that you employ efficient irrigation techniques, to minimize water consumption in gardens.
Food: Sustaining Yourself in a Crisis
Food Storage
Securing a stable food supply is another pillar of survival. Start with a comprehensive food storage plan. Include a variety of long-term options: canned goods, dried goods, vacuum-sealed food, and other non-perishable items. Consider foods you enjoy and those that provide the most nutritional value.
Implement a rotation system to ensure food freshness and prevent waste. The “First In, First Out” principle is essential to avoid expired goods.
Familiarize yourself with food preservation techniques. Canning, drying, smoking, and fermentation are all critical skills for extending the shelf life of your food supplies.
Food Production
Complement food storage with food production. Plan and establish a survival garden. Choose crops that are easy to grow, high-yield, and suited to your local climate.
Consider hunting and fishing skills. These are valuable for obtaining wild game and fish. Learn how to use traps, snares, and fishing gear effectively and ethically.
Become familiar with foraging. Learn to identify edible plants in your area and practice the skills necessary to sustainably harvest them.
Raising livestock can provide a consistent source of food and other resources. Research what animals are suitable for your location and learn how to care for them.
Energy and Power: Staying Connected
Renewable Energy
Energy, or the lack thereof, can severely limit your survival capabilities. Embrace renewable energy solutions. Explore solar power: solar panels, batteries, and inverters. Assess their suitability for your location and energy needs.
Wind power can be a great option in certain locations. Research appropriate turbine options and their viability.
Consider hydropower if there is potential for small-scale hydroelectric systems in your area.
Backup Power
While renewable energy is ideal, have backup power options. A gas generator can provide reliable electricity, but ensure you have safe fuel storage and a maintenance plan.
Hand-crank devices, such as radios and flashlights, are invaluable for backup power when other options are unavailable.
Fuel Storage
Safe fuel storage is critical. Store gasoline, propane, and other fuels safely, away from potential ignition sources and according to local regulations.
Security and Defense: Protecting Your Assets
Perimeter Security
Protecting your survival base is paramount. Begin with perimeter security. Construct a robust fence. Supplement the fence with security measures and camouflage it to minimize visibility.
Surveillance is also essential. Install security cameras, if possible, and consider a watchtower. Establish multiple observation points for 24/7 monitoring.
Use security lighting to deter intruders. Choose lighting that minimizes energy consumption and is strategically placed to illuminate vulnerable areas.
Personal Defense
Alongside perimeter security, equip yourself and train for personal defense. Choose appropriate weapons for self-defense. Firearms, bows, or other tools require safe storage and responsible use.
Undertake thorough training. Pursue weapons training courses, self-defense classes, and develop heightened situational awareness.
Communication
Communication can be a lifeline. Invest in reliable communication equipment, such as radios. Learn the proper radio frequencies for your area, and develop emergency communication protocols.
Essential Tools and Equipment: The Gear You Need
Tools for Construction and Repair
Gather the essential tools and equipment necessary for long-term survival. Tools for construction and repair are vital. Hand tools – hammers, saws, axes, shovels – are the backbone of construction and maintenance.
Power tools can speed up many tasks, but require a power source.
Medical Supplies
A comprehensive medical kit is a must. Include a broad range of supplies: medications, bandages, antiseptics.
First aid knowledge is even more important. Know how to perform CPR, how to dress wounds, and basic wound care. Acquire essential medications.
Communication & Navigation
Communication & navigation are critical: radios (shortwave, two-way). Maps and a compass. Backup is always key. GPS is crucial, but should only be relied on as a backup.
Sanitation and Hygiene: Maintaining Health
Waste Disposal
In a survival situation, health is inextricably linked to sanitation. Proper waste disposal is crucial to prevent the spread of disease. Consider composting toilets, outdoor latrines, or other waste management systems.
Ensure the safe disposal of waste to prevent contamination of your water and food supplies.
Hygiene
Hygiene is also paramount. Have a source of water for washing and sanitation. Keep soap, and personal hygiene products on hand. Establish a strict routine of cleaning practices and sanitation of living areas.
Training and Skills: The Human Factor
The most important aspect of survival is your own knowledge and skills. Dedicate time to learning. First aid and medical knowledge are invaluable.
Wilderness survival skills are essential. Acquire skills related to shelter building, fire starting, and navigation.
Learn the essentials of gardening and food preservation.
Learn fire starting and fire safety to make sure you can provide warmth.
Community and Social Considerations
If circumstances allow, think about building relationships with neighbors and the wider community. Help and support can come from the unlikeliest places. Build a strong understanding of group dynamics, so you are prepared to work with others.
Checklist Summary and Final Thoughts
Location: Choose a defensible, resource-rich site.
Shelter: Build a sturdy, weather-resistant structure.
Water: Secure a clean, reliable water source.
Food: Store food and develop food production skills.
Energy: Establish renewable and backup power sources.
Security: Implement perimeter security and personal defense.
Tools: Gather essential tools and equipment.
Health: Prioritize sanitation and hygiene.
Training: Develop critical survival skills.
Community: Cultivate positive relationships.
Remember, preparing for a crisis is a continuous process, not a one-time event. Regularly review, update, and improve your survival base. Remember it’s not about paranoia, but about taking responsible steps to prepare for whatever life throws your way. This checklist is your starting point. The goal is not to create a perfect survival base overnight, but to begin the journey of preparedness, step by step. By taking these essential steps, you will significantly enhance your ability to not just survive, but to thrive, even in the face of adversity. Embrace the challenge, and the peace of mind that comes with it.
