Gut check time for the bunker

"The old adage that "Chance favors the prepared" has never been more true than today. Bunkers are like life insurance - only more tangible. Be aware, be prepared. Uncertain times lie ahead."

Every now and again I need to pen an article about how to check the health of your bunker. More importantly - to make sure you have one. Why in the world would I need a bunker, some might ask? There are more reasons that I could put in this article. Whether you are just at stocking up, a prepper, or a survivalist, it is important to ensure you have the proper bases covered. 

A caveat before I start. I am far from an expert, but I do my homework and try to get smarter on "bunkering" all the time. That being said, here we go.

Pantry - A pantry is located close to the kitchen and contains mostly canned goods which are needed frequently, for meal prep. Usually, the expiration on these items is six months to a year. Canned soups, canned veggies, and canned fruit are a good example of pantry items. They should always be rotated to ensure the freshness date is still valid.

Bunker - A bunker contains items which are necessary for family survival. Family survival? Yes - in the event of a natural or unnatural event which disrupts the supply chain of goods. In addition, a well maintained bunker also contains items needed for survival in the event power is lost, and therefore utilities are also lost. A minimal bunker should be good for thirty days. Many prepping experts believe a twelve month bunker is optimal. Anything beyond twelve months, puts you in survivalist mode.

Water - A mistake many new preppers make is to underestimate the amount of water needed to be stored in case of an emergency, Many medical professionals believe the proper hydration for an adult person is anywhere between 1/2 gallon and 1 gallon a day. That is potable water - not fresh, but potable. Fresh, non-potable water will also be needed for non-drinking purposes. That being said, a family of four, for a period of one month, would need as much as 120 gallons of potable water, and as little as 60 gallons. A lesser amount which is non-potable. Water will need to be stored in glass jugs or plastic containers, all of which do not contain BPA. Without the proper amount of water, the rest of this article is moot.

Long Term Storage Food - The internet is replete now with reputable companies who sell vacuum packed food which will last for 15 to 25 years. NOTE: Much of which is freeze dried and needs to be re-hydrated with potable water before consuming it. Remember - in the event of a long term emergency, your bunker is your store. When the food and water run out, there will be no more for quite a while. Plan accordingly, for the number of people in your family.

Paper Products - This is the easiest of all. Why? Unlimited storage life. No climate controls. Let's face it folks - we all need TP. Life without TP would put us back to the Sear's catalog - or worse. We will need paper plates, plastic silverware, napkins, paper towels, sanitary wipes, and so forth. You get the picture. Easy to store in the rafters of the garage in mouse proof tubs.

Ammo - This one always pains me - but it is so very important. In the event of a national emergency, some folks will not be prepared. When the choice comes from watching their family members die of dehydration or starvation, or killing you and taking what you have, sadly, it might be the later. You house will not only be your store - you will be your own police. If someone breaks into your house, there will be no 9-1-1. Only you. You are your own police protection. Prepare for it.

There is a boat load more folks, but that is it for right now. Have a care, and check your bunker. The old adage that "Chance favors the prepared" has never been more true than today. Bunkers are like life insurance - only more tangible. Be aware, be prepared. Uncertain times are ahead.