What are the top survival skills everyone should know?

The five most important survival skills are water procurement, shelter building, fire-starting, food sourcing, and first aid. These fundamentals apply whether you are in wilderness or urban environments.

How do I create an emergency preparedness plan for my family?

Start with a 72-hour emergency kit, establish meeting points, and create a communication plan. Effective family preparedness covers three tiers: immediate (24-hour), short-term (72-hour), and extended (30-day) scenarios.

What should I pack in a bug out bag?

A bug out bag should sustain you for 72 hours with water filtration, food, shelter, first aid, fire-starting tools, navigation, and documents. Prioritize versatile items over specialized ones.

What is the difference between wilderness and urban survival?

Wilderness survival focuses on procurement from nature; urban survival focuses on resource improvisation and human-made infrastructure.

How do I prepare for a grid-down scenario?

Grid-down preparation requires alternative communication, independent energy, stored water, and preserved food. Focus on redundancy across systems.

What gear do I need for survival?

Essential survival gear includes a quality knife, water filter, fire starter, first aid kit, cordage, and navigation tools.

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Family & Special Groups

By Randy Salars·Last Updated: January 15, 2025

Survival planning for families, children, elders, and people with special needs requires thoughtful adaptation and inclusive strategies. Every group is unique, and effective preparedness means ensuring that everyone’s needs are met—physically, emotionally, and logistically.

This page offers guidance for creating plans, building kits, and practicing skills that work for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re caring for young children, elderly relatives, or individuals with medical or mobility challenges, you’ll find tips and resources to help your group stay safe and resilient.

What Are the Key Considerations?

Communication: Make sure everyone understands the plan and knows what to do in an emergency. Use simple language, visual aids, or practice drills as needed.

Mobility & Accessibility: Adapt evacuation routes, shelters, and supplies for wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids.

Medical Needs: Keep extra medications, medical equipment, and copies of prescriptions in your emergency kit.

Comfort & Familiarity: Include comfort items for children or those with sensory needs—favorite toys, blankets, or headphones.

Pets & Service Animals: Plan for food, water, and safe shelter for animals as part of your group.

What Are Some Tips for Family Preparedness?

Assign roles and responsibilities to each family member

Practice emergency drills at home and in different settings

Keep emergency contacts and medical info up to date and accessible

Teach children how and when to call for help

Prepare “go bags” for each person, tailored to their needs

Special Groups & Inclusive Planning

Coordinate with schools, care facilities, or support organizations

Consider language barriers and provide translations if needed

Plan for group reunification if separated during an emergency

Check local resources for accessible shelters and transportation

What Are the Best Recommended Resources?

Ready.gov – Children & Families

Red Cross – Disaster Safety for People with Disabilities

What Are Some Inspiring Quotes About Family & Community?

“The strength of the family, like the strength of an army, lies in its loyalty to each other.” — Mario Puzo

“Preparedness is not about fear; it’s about peace of mind for everyone you love.” — Anonymous

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