I have referenced this list before, the first hundred things that disappear in a collapse. It was originally created based on the feedback from survivors of the Bosnian war with special attention from the experiences of those who lived through the siege of Sarajevo. The list has been updated (to some degree) to reflect the slightly different world we live in these days and a slightly different culture/economy.
I few weeks ago Wonderful Wife and I reviewed the list together. We did our best to determine what items did, or did not, apply to us. For the items that did apply we tried to determine how well we had that item covered. For the items where we determined there was a gap we put together at least a rough plan for filling the gap.
I thought it might be useful to some of you to share our thoughts on the items, our gaps and our plans. I also thought it might be useful to share these things because many of you might have better ideas than we did. So, feedback is not only encouraged but would be much appreciated.
Here are the next ten items on the list:
51. Fishing supplies/tools
This is a great suggestion, if you live near a body of water with enough fish to make it worthwhile. Which I do.
However…
Fishing to survive and feed your family is very different from recreational fishing (at least in the US). In a collapse, towing your $50,000 bass boat to the lake and blasting across the lake to your favorite honey hole to pull in a couple of fish (even good sized fish) is not a very efficient use of resources. You are burning a lot of fuel towing the boat and running it around the lake. You are probably going to attract a lot of unwanted attention. Casting around a lake or even dunking minnows or worms is not a very efficient way to catch dinner. Instead think about nets. Cast nets or gill nets which may not be legal pre-collapse are far more efficient ways to add fish to the menu in sufficient quantities. You will have to have them, know how to use them and how to repair them. Jug fishing or “trot” lines are also much more efficient ways of catching your food supply. Again, legalities may vary pre-collapse. Instead of a high profile motorboat, think about a canoe or kayak instead. Operational security is a key here. If someone finds your gear, lines or boat you may not have them for very long.
52. Mosquito repellent
Living along the Gulf Coast, I think I think I have an entire bin of various anti-mosquito defenses but don’t limit yourself to what you can buy. Look at what you can grow on your own as well. There are a number of plants that help repel those nasty little bloodsuckers including citronella. Some are herbs that would be nice to have on hand for other reasons as well (link). In addition to repellents, practice good mosquito control practices including getting rid of standing water near your property (link).
Keep in mind that pre-collapse mosquitos can be an annoyance but post-collapse they become a serious health risk. I have been told that mosquito-born illness kills more people in some parts of the world than anything else.
53. Duct tape
Can you ever really have enough of “duck” tape? It is probably the most versatile item in your toolkit. I have used it for everything from temporary car repairs to wrapping presents and making wallets. In one case, I even used it as part of a makeshift bandage, along with a stack of unused fast food napkins, on a knife wound. Get a bunch. I just ordered several extra rolls.
54. Tarps/stakes/twine/nails/rope/spikes
Living in Hurricane Alley (at at least right next to it) blue tarps are a mandatory item to keep on hand. I will grab a few extra before hurricane season start and grab some of the other items listed here as well. I have some but would like more.
55. Candles
We have a selection of these on hand, mostly of the scented or decorative varieties. But we need to add more. To combine this with #52 a bunch will be citronella candles.
56. Laundry detergent (Liquid)
Since COVID we have kept a pretty good supply on hand and will continue to stock up.
57. Backpacks and Duffle bags
Oh Lord, if Wonderful Wife sees me buy another backpack or bag I may have to live out of it. I buy way too many of these and have over a dozen on hand.
58. Garden tools and supplies – manual
This is another area where just having the tools on hand is not enough. You need seeds. You need properly prepared soil. You need to be able to provide water to the plants should it be needed. You need to know what grows well in your environment and when to plant each crop you want to grow. Once you plant your garden it will take several months or week to yield food. The bottom line is that you should gardening now in order to be ready.
59. Scissors, fabrics and sewing supplies
This is an area that falls more in line with Wonderful Wife’s are of expertise and she has quite a bit for sewing and knitting but I think it would be good to add a few small sewing kits to the inventory to have just in case.
60. Canned Fruits, Veggies, Soups, stews, etc.
This is part of our routine food preps. We make sure we have plenty of what we normally eat on hand. I will say I am probably a little light on the fruit side of things so we will start building those supplies up a little.
We will continue to work through the remainder of the list in future posts but as I mentioned above please make suggestions and provide your thoughts on these items.
Be alert, get prepared, fight the good fight!
God bless and God save the Republic.
Welcome To The Resistance! 