according to chatgpt the risk of an EMP event in the US is low, but not impossible. that’s a good enough reason for me to do a little research and decide if there is a way to be prepared for less than $100. let’s see what we can do:
This list assumes you already have some basic household items that everyone should have like a first-aid kit, manual can opener, flashlights, and non-perishable food.
$100 budget
- AA-battery operated AM/FM radio
($10)
- Allows for receiving news and emergency broadcasts when other communication networks are down.
- Faraday Bag
($20)
- Protects electronic devices like radios and key fobs from EMP damage, ensuring their functionality post-event.
- Lifestraw personal
($17)
- Filters contaminated water, making it safe to drink when water systems are compromised.
- 4 Way Sillcock Water Key
($11)
- Provides access to commercial water sources, crucial when regular water supply is disrupted.
- US Map
($10)
- Offers reliable, non-digital navigation when GPS systems are inoperative.
- AA-battery LED lantern
($11)
- Ensures lighting when electrical grids fail.
- 5-gal plastic jugs
for water ($14)
- Allows you to save potable water for drinking, or non-potable for use to fill toilet tanks
$200 budget
Add these items to the list above.
- Long Range Walkie Talkies
($20)
- Facilitate communication over distances when cell networks are unavailable.
- Portable solar panel, 28W
($65)
- Powers small devices and recharges batteries, crucial when electricity is unavailable.
- Anker 521 Portable Power Station, 256Wh
(~$170)
- Stores power for essential devices, crucial in prolonged power outages.
bigger budget
while I am not getting these items personally, they are kind of badass, and I am glad I know about them:
- EMP Shield for Car/Truck ($400)
- Jackery 100W Portable Solar Panel ($250)
- Jackery Portable Power Station 518Wh (~$500)
further reading
- SAS Survival Handbook ($18)
Shoutouts:
- gnars for book reco on water jugs and SAS survival handbook