15 Tips to Prepare Before the Possible 2024 Election Unrest

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As we approach the U.S. presidential election, the potential for 2024 election unrest in the form of civil unrest or worse, such as localized terrorist incidents, isn’t far-fetched. We’ve all witnessed tensions during past elections, and this one promises to be just as volatile. So, what’s the best course of action? Prepare to stay home. If things escalate, staying off the streets and out of danger could be the best way to protect your family. Now’s the time to lock in those final preparations so you’re not caught off guard if events spiral out of control.

In this episode, we’ll cover 15 tips you can take to ensure you’re ready for anything. From securing your home to ensuring your family’s comfort and safety, these steps will put you in the best position to weather potential unrest.

1. Double-Check Your Food Supply

You may not need to go on a massive shopping spree, but it’s wise to take inventory of what you have. Do you have enough food for your household if things get rough for a week or more?

• Storage and Budget Limits: Don’t overdo it. Your budget and available space are real constraints. Focus on easy-to-store items, like canned goods, pasta, and rice.
• Backup Cooking Methods: How will you cook if the power goes out? A camp stove or charcoal grill with enough fuel can be a lifesaver when your oven and microwave are out of commission. Having these options ensures you can still prepare meals even when utilities are down.

2. Shore Up Your Communications

Staying informed will be critical if things get dicey.

• StarLink and Radios: While internet and cell service are generally reliable, that could change during civil unrest. A StarLink satellite setup can keep you online no matter what happens. You might also want to invest in a satellite radio for your car or home as an extra layer of connectivity.
• Backup Methods: Don’t rely solely on one system. Look into different types of radios, such as ham radios, CB radios, or walkie-talkies, to keep communication lines open. Staying in contact with others, especially during a blackout, could be critical.

3. Home Security

Your home is your haven. But is it truly secure?

• Establish Your Perimeter: Identify your perimeter and prepare to be aware of anyone or anything that crosses it.
• Evaluate Doors, Windows, and Lighting: Now’s the time to assess your home security. Are all doors and windows locked and in good condition? Do you have proper lighting around your property to deter unwanted visitors?
• Additional Measures: Consider installing cameras or motion detectors to add another layer of protection. Even fake security cameras can deter anyone from causing trouble.

4. Power Backup

At the very least, you need a way to keep key electronics running.

• Solar Generators: A solar generator is a solid, renewable option for keeping essential devices powered. Even if the grid goes down, you can run small electronics like phones, radios, and lights.
• Backup Batteries and Power Banks: Don’t stop with just a generator. Ensure you have extra batteries and fully charged power banks for phones, flashlights, and radios. Redundancy is key in an emergency.
• Fueled Generators: Gas and propane generators and diesel are great but noisy power generation options.

5. Lighting

No one wants to be left in the dark, literally or figuratively.

• Flashlights, Lanterns, and Headlamps: Have multiple lighting sources ready. Flashlights and headlamps are great for personal use, while lanterns can light up a room.
• Solar-Powered Options: Solar-powered lights offer an ongoing solution, even if the power grid stays down longer than expected.

6. Medical Supplies

Make sure your first aid kit and medical supplies are ready to go.

• Basic First Aid and OTC Medications: Stock up on essentials like bandages, antiseptics, and over-the-counter medications. You don’t want to scramble for these items if stores shut down.
• Prescription Refills: If anyone in your household relies on prescription medications, ensure you have enough to last through any potential shortages.

7. Climate Control

What happens if your heat goes out?

• Consolidate Into One Room: In a power outage, gather your family in one room to conserve heat. Block off unused rooms to keep the warmth where it’s needed most.
• Warmth Supplies: If heating becomes an issue, blankets, sleeping bags, and winter clothing can keep you warm. For added comfort, remember to bring hand warmers or emergency blankets.

8. Personal Hygiene Supplies

Many of us take toilets and running water for granted, but they may not be available in an emergency.

• Alternative Toilets: Consider having a backup plan for bathroom needs if water services go out. A camping toilet, plastic bags, and a bucket can work in a pinch.
• Basic Hygiene: Stock up on essentials like soap, hand sanitizer, and other hygiene products to stay clean and prevent infections.

9. Cleaning Supplies

Keeping things clean is more than just a luxury.

• Disinfection: Have enough cleaning supplies on hand to disinfect surfaces regularly. Keeping germs at bay in crowded or shared living spaces will help prevent illnesses from spreading.
• General Cleaning: Stock up on trash bags, bleach, and multi-surface cleaners to maintain cleanliness and hygiene around your home.

10. Water

You can’t live without water, and the grid going down could interrupt your supply.

• Stored Water: Store enough bottled water for at least a week. Aim for one gallon per person, per day.
• Portable Water Filtration: Filtration systems like LifeStraw or Sawyer filters are excellent backups if you run out of stored water or need to collect from natural sources.

11. Cash on Hand

When the grid goes down, digital payments may not work.

• Cash is King: ATMs might not work, and card payments could be unreliable. Having cash stashed away means you can still make purchases if needed.
• No Need for Gold and Silver: While precious metals have value, cash is far more practical for everyday needs during short-term disruptions.

12. Important Documents

You don’t want to be scrambling for your vital records in an emergency.

• Digital and Physical Copies: Make copies of your IDs, insurance policies, medical records, and any other critical documents. Keep these in a waterproof, fireproof container or store them digitally on a secure drive.
• Grab-and-Go: Have these documents packed and ready in case you need to leave your home in a hurry.

13. Comfort Items (Mental Health Supplies)

Sometimes, a little comfort can go a long way when things get tough.

• Books, Games, and Puzzles: Mental health matters during emergencies. Stock up on comfort items like books, games, or puzzles to reduce stress and keep everyone entertained.
• Comfort Foods: Include some “feel good” foods in your stockpile. Whether chocolate, tea, or your favorite snacks, these small luxuries can make a tough situation more bearable.

14. Pet Supplies

Our pets need to be taken care of, too.

• Food and Medications: Stock enough food and meds for your pets, just as you would for your family. Ensure you have a few weeks’ worth if restocking becomes problematic.
• Emergency Evacuation for Pets: If you have to leave home, ensure you’ve got a plan for transporting your pets. That means leashes, crates, and any paperwork or identification they may need.

15. Emergency Evacuation Plan

Finally, have an evacuation plan.

• Know Your Routes: If you must leave your home, know your exits and routes. Where will you go? How will you get there?
• Go Bags Ready: Pack go-bags with the essentials, including food, water, clothing, and first aid, and ensure each family member knows where to find them.

The Bottom Line on How to Prepare for Possible 2024 Election Unrest

It’s always better to be prepared than to panic when things start going sideways. The upcoming election might stir up some unrest, but by following these tips, you’ll be in a much stronger position to weather the storm. Being prepared isn’t about living in fear—it’s about giving yourself the tools to stay calm and confident, no matter what happens.

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