In order to be ready for possible catastrophic situations, it is vital to be well-prepared. Although we commonly acknowledge the risks posed by natural disasters and societal breakdowns, one of the most serious dangers we face is an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack. This kind of attack has the ability to make most of our electronic devices useless and cause widespread disruption to the entire power grid. Considering the heavy dependence on electricity in countries such as the United States, the consequences of an EMP attack could bring society, infrastructure, and the supply chain to a sudden and complete stop.
If you’re worried about getting essential survival resources after a major disaster, it’s wise to begin accumulating items that can be used as valuable goods for trading when a catastrophic event occurs (referred to as “SHTF”). Preparing for an EMP attack not only allows you to prepare for and manage such a devastating situation but also prepares you for other less severe scenarios, such as extended power blackouts or situations where you need to stay home until travel is safe again.
As stated in a report from the EMP Commission, an alarming 60 to 90 percent of individuals could perish due to lack of food within one year after an EMP attack. Moreover, there will be a critical requirement for tools and different provisions, underscoring the importance of possessing effective bartering abilities for survival.
To make sure you are adequately prepared for bartering and trade after an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) event, take into account the following items that you should accumulate:
1. Alcohol
Regardless of whether you abstain from alcohol, it is prudent to have a supply of it on hand as numerous individuals will seek it after a catastrophe. Additionally, indulging in an occasional alcoholic beverage can offer comfort during extremely tense scenarios such as an EMP attack. To facilitate successful bartering, it is recommended to trade with smaller-sized bottles of alcohol.
2. Batteries
Although small portable gadgets may continue to operate following an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) assault, they will depend on A.A. and AAA batteries to function. It is crucial to gather a sufficient quantity of these battery sizes, along with lithium-ion batteries and button cells (commonly known as watch batteries). Alkaline batteries, as stated by manufacturers, can be stored for a maximum of 10 years, enabling you to accumulate a reliable stockpile without worrying about expiration.
3. Cigarettes
After an electromagnetic pulse event (EMP), certain people might resort to smoking cigarettes as a way to handle stress. If you have sufficient storage capacity, it would be beneficial to acquire loose tobacco and rolling papers since they have a longer lifespan compared to pre-packaged cigarettes. Smokers, including those who have specific brand preferences, might be open to trading for substitutes in a situation of disaster. It’s important to recognize that manufactured cigarettes do not preserve as effectively as unprocessed tobacco because of the additional substances they contain.
4. Coffee
Caffeine is the most commonly utilized substance worldwide, and an astonishing 90 percent of Americans consume it on a regular basis. As a result, in the event of an EMP attack, numerous individuals will strongly desire their everyday dose of coffee. It would be wise to gather a supply of instant coffee, coffee beans, or ground coffee for the purpose of trading. Considering the limited storage capacity, it is advisable to prioritize whole coffee beans, as ground coffee tends to lose its flavor and become stale more quickly.
5. Firestarters
In the event of major catastrophes like EMP attacks, there may arise a need to resort to basic techniques of warming and cooking, like relying on fire. This situation can become quite daunting for individuals who haven’t stored enough fuel or alternative methods for heating and cooking in their residences. It is crucial to have an abundant supply of items that can initiate fire, such as matches and other tools specifically designed for starting fires, like tinder, flint, steel, or a ferro rod and striker. These firestarters can be valuable resources for trade and barter.
6. First Aid Supplies
Following an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) assault, there might be limited availability to medical facilities, leading to a greater need for first aid supplies. Both major and minor injuries could become more frequent, and individuals who are not prepared will rely on these supplies to address wounds. It is crucial to accumulate a reserve of fundamental first aid items, such as antibacterial ointment, seals for chest wounds, adhesive bandages in the shape of butterflies, stretchy bandages, cotton swabs, protective gloves, hot and cold packs, N95 masks, scissors, rubbing alcohol, and supports for immobilizing fractures.
7. Fuel
While automobiles may become inoperable following an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) assault, individuals will still have a need for gasoline to power a range of tools and serve various purposes. Gasoline can be utilized for tasks such as igniting fires and operating chainsaws. Although gasoline does not have good long-term storage capabilities, metal gasoline containers provide better storage conditions compared to plastic ones. It is also worth considering the necessity for other combustible fuels like kerosene, propane, mineral oil, and wood. Wood, in particular, can hold significant value, and individuals who are capable of cutting their own firewood may be willing to engage in bartering exchanges.
8. Medicines
In the event of a disaster such as an EMP attack, the availability of medicine will decrease quickly. It becomes extremely important to gather and store any legally obtainable options that are accessible. Building a comprehensive collection of prescription drugs might be difficult unless you have specific expertise as a pharmacist. Nevertheless, you can gather over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can be used for trading purposes. Everyday items like antihistamines, medications for diarrhea, and pain relievers will be in high demand.
9. Personal Hygiene Products
In a world after a catastrophic event, it becomes extremely important to prioritize personal cleanliness. It is advisable to gather necessary hygiene supplies like soap, lip balm, cotton swabs, combs, deodorant, dental floss, diapers, feminine hygiene products, hairbrushes, hand sanitizer, lotion, razors, shaving cream, shampoo, toothbrushes, toilet paper, and toothpaste.
10. Preserved Food
After the existing stock in stores runs out, the disrupted transportation and ordering systems will face difficulties in replenishing essential items. Although there might still be food available in local areas, obtaining it will become harder, and the dependence on local supplies will grow stronger. Nevertheless, there is no guarantee that these supplies will reach the stores, and once they are depleted, people will find themselves in desperate situations without access to food. As a result, the importance of food as a valuable resource will rise due to the prevailing scarcity.
11. Soap
Soap, although it may appear unimportant, holds significant value when it comes to survival after a catastrophic event. Ensuring proper hand hygiene through thorough handwashing plays a vital role in preventing the transmission of illnesses, emphasizing the necessity of having a dependable source of soap.
12. Toilet Paper
Toilet paper, a vital item, is worth hoarding if you plan to trade goods after a catastrophe. Although there are substitutes available in a world without electricity, none are as easy to use and pleasant as toilet paper.
13. Water Filters and Purifiers
Having access to uncontaminated water is of utmost importance for staying alive. In the event of an EMP attack causing a depletion of your water source, it becomes crucial to possess water filters and purifiers to guarantee the safety of water obtained from external sources. It is advisable to choose back-flushable filters, despite their higher cost, as they last longer. Another option to consider is using chemical water treatment methods such as chlorine bleach for purifying water. Keep in mind the need to accumulate a sufficient stock of these supplies, taking into account prolonged usage and the possibility of trading them if necessary.
