Question 1

What is the most important emergency gear to buy first?

Accepted Answer

Medical is first — specifically a tourniquet and trauma kit. The NAR IFAK with SOF-T tourniquet and a QuikClot Combat Gauze can stop life-threatening bleeding in 3–5 minutes. After medical, prioritize a two-way satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach Mini 2, which works with no cell infrastructure.

Question 2

What emergency communication gear works without cell service?

Accepted Answer

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 provides two-way satellite messaging and SOS from anywhere on Earth with no cell network required. The Midland ER310 is a hand-crank NOAA weather radio that needs no power. For local coordination, the Baofeng UV-5R is a low-cost ham radio that works on public safety frequencies.

Question 3

How do I store emergency water long term?

Accepted Answer

The WaterBOB is a 100-gallon bathtub bladder — fill it at the first sign of disruption for a 50-day supply for one person. For ongoing filtration, the Berkey Big Berkey gravity filter removes viruses, bacteria, and heavy metals with no power or pressure required. Keep both on hand.

Question 4

What backup power should I have for grid-down emergencies?

Accepted Answer

A portable power station like the Jackery 1000 Plus or EcoFlow Delta Pro can run critical electronics, CPAP machines, and small appliances for days. Pair with a 400W solar panel (Renogy) for indefinite grid-independent power. Always keep a NOCO GB40 jump starter in each vehicle.

Question 5

How much fuel should I stockpile for an emergency?

Accepted Answer

Keep 4 Wavian NATO Jerry Cans (5 gallons each = 20 gallons total) filled at all times. Rotate fuel quarterly using PRI-G fuel stabilizer to maintain potency. This provides 300–400 miles of evacuation range on top of a full tank. Store in a cool, ventilated area away from ignition sources.

Non-Negotiable Items

COMMUNICATIONS

MEDICAL

WATER

MOBILITY

SHELTER