With fear and panic growing both in and outside of the preparedness community, there are a lot of lessons we can take out of the whole situation. While this seems to be a low threat pandemic in terms of apocalyptic events, it is a very serious reminder that a Spanish Flu like epidemic is still very possible. Let’s use this opportunity to learn and become better prepared for more serious scenarios.
Stock up on supplies before you need them. We’re seeing a run on personal protective supplies in the face of the 2019-NCoV outbreak. I find it disappointing that preppers are now complaining that they can’t find masks and other items, or when they are available it seems the prices have skyrocketed. The problem is not only local to a select few, but it seems a global shortage has set in. People wanting to pick up gear for themselves are finding that they have serious competition from people buying up wholesale lots to send to the infected area. I have personally seen 10 packs of N95 masks selling for over $300 on Amazon.
Do your research now. Preparing for a pandemic is way more involved that picking up some masks. Have you planned for caring for family or MAG members who are sick? Setting up a sick room is essential and quite involved once you get into it. Isolating patients is paramount. Of course some plastic sheeting and duct tape can help create a place for them, but have you thought about how you will dispose of waste materials? The last thing you want to do is drag possibly infected items through your home for disposal.
Ask yourself the tough questions now. Planning is more than gathering supplies. In a serious event, MAG activations will be common, but will you want to have all these possibly infected people getting together with you and your loved ones? Will you have a quarantine protocol? Who will be the one to venture outside your retreat when needed? Will you interact with other groups? Discuss, decide, and white your answers down in the form of SOPs.
As we watch this whole mess unfold, there are bound to be more lessons to be learned and questions to be asked. Keep an eye on the situation while trying to sort the hysterical hype from the truth…not always that easy to do, I know. Rely on resources that have a proven track record.
Stay safe and vigilant everyone!