The Oil Drum

Most people that I attempt to talk to about these things have a hard time imagining the several intermediate steps between zero and one on your scale let alone any scenario beyond economic hardship.

For those that are concerned about their future, I attempt to explain the concept of living in and preparing for three different possibilities.

Preparation one: Society as we know it continues but with much greater economic and social problems. Reduced personal freedoms, random shortages of necessities and comsumer items, much higher costs. Higher unemployment and on and on.

Preparation two: Homesteading-back to the land, local communities scenario. Local self-reliance for the basic necessities of life: food, water, warmth and shelter, personal and community healthcare, local safety and security, transportation limited to a few tens of miles.

Preparation three: RUN FOR THE HILLS! Personal and family survival dependant on disappearing into the wilds of nature to avoid the dangers of human contact for whatever the potential reasons. Consider the Jews of Europe and many thousands of others in WWII that ran for the hills before you discount this possibility. I personally had family members that 'ran for the hills' in WWII. Learn basic survival skills such as fire starting and care in all types of weather, wild foraging, basic shelter etc. and practice these skills well before they become necessary. Imagine going "Naked into the Wilderness" (name of a primitive skills book) and imagine the skills needed. At least organize and practice living out of a packpack once in a while.

Good luck to you all!!!