The Best Ways To Be Prepared For Disaster
The Beginner’s Guide To Preparedness And “Doomsday”
Remember this summer when the skies were covered in sunburn clouds and ash was raining from the sky? It was only a week before Christmas that I evacuated my family, as a bushfire was threatening our neighbourhood and homes. Or perhaps you are recalling, and still living, the never-ending barrage of rain from the unprecedented cyclone action? A few winters ago the heavens opened up and turned my backyard into an inland sea. My chooks were paddling like ducks, the veggie patch was a watery graveyard, and the only thing growing was my panic. To be honest mate, I learned the hard way that self-sufficiency ain't just about growing zucchinis – it's about being prepared for whatever the Aussie weather (or the world) throws your way. Now, with the recent announcement by NATO’s top military advisor about being prepared for war, the bushfire season being longer than ever, and cyclones and floods at an all-time high, I reckon it's time to ditch the doomsday prepper stereotype.
Let’s talk about real, practical preparedness for everyday Aussies like you and me.
Before you start stockpiling tinned beans and building a bunker in the backyard (though, hey, no judgment!), let's focus first on the most common threats Down Under: floods, bushfires, and even the potential for disruptions caused by global events. These might seem daunting, but the good news is, a little preparation can go a long way.
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Nature's Fury:
First things first, know your risks in your geographic area.
Floods? Invest in sandbags, waterproof storage for important documents, and an evacuation plan for you and your feathered friends (remember my chook-canoes?). Keep an eye (or ear) on the local weather channel and know what to do in cases of hunkering in place.
Bushfires? Create a bushfire plan! Let me say it again. CREATE A BUSHFIRE PLAN. Chat with your local brigade, they will help you and answer all your questions. Clear flammable debris around your home and empty gutters, create fire breaks, and have a go bag ready either in your car or somewhere you can grab it and be gone in less than 4 minutes. A fire-proof document store system is also handy and light. Remember, knowledge is power, and resources like the Bureau of Meteorology and your local council can provide vital information and support.
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Beyond the Backyard:
Now, let's talk about the wider world. The recent NATO announcement and wider discussions regarding entering an era of pre-war might seem far removed from your backyard veggie patch, but it's a reminder that global events can have local impacts. Food prices might fluctuate, supply chains could be disrupted, and even basic necessities could become harder to come by. So, what can you do?
Start small. Build a basic emergency kit with essentials like water or a water filter straw, long life food for one or four people, personal mini first-aid supplies, and a battery-powered or solar radio. Learn basic skills like food preservation, rainwater harvesting, and simple repairs. Connect with your community – neighbours, local groups, self-sufficiency enthusiasts. Remember, preparedness isn't about being a lone wolf, it's about building a resilient community that can weather any storm, together.
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Empowering Your Self-Sufficiency Journey:
That's where local educators like Eight Acres Permaculture come in. We offer coaching, workshops, and a supportive community to help you navigate the journey of self-sufficiency, preparedness included. We believe that self-reliance isn't about stockpiling and fear, it's about building knowledge, skills, and community to create a more resilient and sustainable future.
So, ditch the doomsday myths and embrace practical preparedness. Learn, connect, and build a self-sufficient lifestyle that can handle whatever life throws your way, from a rogue storm to a global shift. Remember, being prepared isn't about living in fear, it's about living with confidence, knowing that you and your community have the tools and the spirit to face any challenge. Now, are you ready to become a prepper the Aussie way – resourceful, resilient, and ready to face whatever tomorrow brings?
Want to learn more about gardening and building a self-sufficient lifestyle? Check out these featured articles!
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