PreparedThe

AmericanOfficial Newsletter of The Family Protection Association

Societal Collapse - Inevitable Threats to Our Survival

There are a variety of scenarios we can and should prepare for. Some seem like something out of a science-fiction novel, like alien invasions, doomsday asteroids, zombie apocalypses, etc.

Sometimes it’s not even one specific scenario, but rather an array of possible - and even probable – occurrences.

When you really think about the truth, it sings a terrifying tune: there are millions of would-be threats to our survival. The probability of preparing for each one is unlikely.

But not impossible.

The key is researching every potential outcome; even the ones whispered in dark rooms and abandoned alleys. To get you started, we will cover 5 less-talked-about (but still probable) threats and how to overcome them. By the end,

you will know exactly what to do before, during and after the SHTF.

1. A Terror Attack Targeting Our Infrastructure

Most people dismissed terrorist attacks as isolated incidents happening in other countries - until 9/11. As a result of the tragedy, citizens started realizing the unthinkable could happen anywhere, to anyone, even on home soil.Despite this, some optimists still think

In This Issue #16MEET THE EXPERTS

SOCIETAL COLLAPSE - INEVITABLE THREATS TO OUR SURVIVAL

THE 5 FOUNDATION STONES OF SURVIVAL

SURVIVAL SKILL #14 OFF-GRID INTERNET COMMUNICATION

– CELL PHONE DATA – HOTSPOT DEVICES – SATELLITE

CONNECTION – HAM RADIOS

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (QUIZ)

COMING UPNEXT MONTH:NEGOTIATION AND BARTER

Family Protection Association (FPA) provides information, tools, training, and support for the welfare of American families.

There are more threats to our safety and security than ever before, and we want to unite members with our common goal of protecting our families at all costs. Let’s keep our families healthy, safe, and secure.

Article continued on page 4

The Prepared American is the official monthly publication of the Family Protection Association (FPA). We provide you with the information, tools, training, and support you need to succeed.

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Meet the Experts CRAIG CAUDILL

Craig Caudill has spent a lifetimepracticing and teaching survival,preparedness and self-relianceskills. He is the director of theNature Reliance School and teachesthese skills in the midwestern andsoutheastern U.S.

He is an incredibly active bloggerand writer for several different blogsand self-reliance magazines. He hasappeared on educational televisionteaching self-reliance skills multipletimes.

He has a worldwide student basewho study with him through hisonline self-reliance school. Craigconsiders himself a student in allthings and is regularly studyingwith other instructors, thinkingand practicing outside the box ofconventional wisdom, and honingboth his abilities and teachingmethods.

His students have included militaryoperators, law enforcement specialresponse units, and many averageordinary law-abiding citizens.

DAVE SCOTT

Dave is the Program Director andLead Instructor at Earth NativeWilderness School. Dave found alifelong love for nature as a youngchild exploring Texas’ wild placeswith his brother, Michel. As ateenager, a passion for wildernesssurvival skills and self-reliancegrew while he was involved withhis county’s local search and rescueteam.

After spending five years in the USArmy, Dave began pursuing histrue passions full time, studyingwilderness survival, wildlifetracking, youth and adult mentoring,naturalist studies, and sustainableliving skills at wilderness schoolsacross the country.

Dave has worked in EnvironmentalEducation since 2003 and, in additionto Earth Native Wilderness School,has instructed at several wildernessschools across the country includingthe Wilderness Awareness Schooland Alderleaf Wilderness College.Dave is currently one of only 20individuals in North Americaqualified as a Track and SignSpecialist through the CybertrackerConservation evaluation system, aninternational standard for gauging

and enhancing in-field knowledgeof wildlife behavior and track andsign identification.

Dave is the co-author of BirdFeathers: A Guide to NorthAmerican Species and gives classeson feather ID and Bird Track & Signthroughout the state. As an educator,Dave’s passion is to help his studentsreconnect with the natural worldthrough wildlife tracking, increasedsensory awareness, wildernesssurvival skills, and the developmentof a strong sense of place.

KAT TRETINA

Kat Tretina is a professional writerbased in sunny Orlando, FL. Herpassion for personal finance andsecurity is reflected in her work inthe home protection industry, whereshe is a well respected authority.

Kat has a Master’s degree inCommunications and has alsostudied self-defense for over 15years.

She also is active in the dog trainingcommunity, working with potentialprotection animals and therapydogs.

with the glass half full. After all, most terrorist attacks post 9/11 were relatively small. Does this mean the threat passed? Are we safe to fall back into the line of thinking “it won’t happen to me or my country”?

Absolutely not.

We are never safe to fall back into that

thinking. At this very second, the (so far, failed) attempts at poisoning local water supplies and taking down the national power grid are growing.

And with cyber attacks on the rise, such attempts are no longer limited to physical operations. The fact of the matter is, terror groups, both foreign and domestic, have targeted our infrastructure in the past and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

Should even one of those attempts be successful, depending on the scale of the affected area, it could push the nation into a state of emergency - and the chaos that comes with it.

Think about this: if a biological attack is successfully launched, it will create the exact type of panic such terror groups aim to achieve.

But the problem doesn’t end there.

One of the most significant threats facing our nation today remains radical Islamic groups. You probably noticed - it’s becoming increasingly taboo to call this particular spade a spade.

This hesitancy, largely due to erring on the side of “political correctness,” is damaging our chances of surviving as a nation. When a threat of this magnitude

is repeatedly hushed up, most fail to adequately prepare themselves.

So what can you do to be prepared?

1. Have a solid evacuation and bug out plan so you can leave at a moment’s notice when the SHTF

2. The government’s first priority will be clamping down on the public in an attempt to prevent chaos. Exercise your constitutional right to bear arms and make sure you know how to use them

3. Have a plan for emergency communication. Once our infrastructure is down, off-grid communication becomes essential to survival

2. Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attacks & Other Warfare

Some survivalists are becoming increasingly worried about a nuclear attack. This isn’t some vestige of Cold War fears - it’s a valid concern.

Tyler Cowen, a Bloomberg columnist, published a rather salient piece earlier this year. In it, he points out:

“A generation of hypersonic delivery systems, being developed by China, Russia, and the U.S., will shorten the response time available to political and military leaders to minutes. That raises the risk of a false signal turning into a decision to retaliate, or it may induce a nation to think that a successful first strike is possible. Remember, it’s not enough for the principle of [mutually] assured destruction to be generally true; it has to be always true.”

With the global political sphere being what it is, the idea of a nuclear strike (initial or in retaliation to a real or false signal) is disturbingly likely.

In fact, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were recently

Societal Collapse - Inevitable Threats to Our SurvivalContinued from page 1

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used by the U.S. government to start preparing the public for such a probability.

The nuclear fallout isn’t the only thing survivalists need to prepare for. The related electromagnetic pulse (EMP) issued by a nuclear blast is more than enough to completely knock out the nation’s power grid.

There is a lot of information to cover if you want to properly prepare for an EMP attack. The short version:

1. Stock up on emergency items and make sure your bug out and bug in gear is kept up to date

2. Seal emergency electronics in EMP Protection bags

3. Learn how to become self-reliant in terms of food, water, solar power, etc.

4. Prepare for martial law – and expect to fight off looters

5. Have an emergency, off-grid communications plan in place

3. Domestic, Political & Social Unrest – Another Civil War

The probability of a second Civil War is a topic of high controversy.

Pointing out the obvious in this case - that political and social unrest can (and likely will) cause political and societal collapse - is enough to whip half the nation into a state of denial.

Too many people sweep potential threats under the rug; choosing to ignore them until they’re staring into the eyes of a demon.

As survivalists, we know this is the wrong choice.

Political tensions have been approaching a boiling point for years

now. Groups like Antifa and BLM, while claiming to seek an end to civil unrest, are in fact some of the most likely candidates for inciting escalated tensions.

The shortened list of ways to prepare for a societal collapse due to political and social unrest:

1. Learn how to protect yourself in the event of a large-scale, societal attack (concerts, political rallies, marathons, sports matches, etc.)

2. Know how to survive an active shooter situation

3. Teach your kids how to protect themselves during a school shooting

4. Have an emergency escape plan that can be enacted post-haste when SHTF

5. Exercise your right to bear arms in a legal, responsible manner

4. Financial Collapse

Despite many parts of the country experiencing economic enthusiasm at present, the U.S. is anything but stable.

Regardless of where you stand on the

political spectrum, it’s time to wake up and smell the recession: we’re a nation with over $20 trillion in debt and $120 trillion in unfunded liabilities - figures that are only skyrocketing.

At the current pace, we’re headed toward a major financial collapse. While Trump’s trade war is massively successful in some regards, it’s certainly obliterating our agricultural market at the same time.

Likewise, pretending democratic socialism will solve all our problems is only creating further issues (not least of which is the increase in division,

pushing us even closer to a state of civil unrest).Start preparing yourself and your family NOW, because this is easily the most likely SHTF scenario - and it’ll only spark others.

1. Cut out unnecessary expenses and start using that money to get out of debt ASAP

2. Financial experts advise having an emergency fund of 3 to 6 months’ living expenses. If you can, increase that amount to 12 months or longer - a recession can last years

3. While many advise against keeping cash on hand because it depreciates in value due to inflation, have a stash safely stored. You don’t want to be caught with all your assets frozen when the SHTF and the banks start panicking

4. Have a properly stocked shelter and bug out kit, including sustainable food and water, solar energy, medical supplies, and off-grid emergency communication

5. Increase your home and shelter’s security measures – including access to and expertise in the use

of weapons

5. Famine

It might be unthinkable for some of us, but famine is a very real threat.

Just look at food shortages during times of natural disasters, like hurricanes. All it takes is a little push from one of many very real situations, and the U.S. is spiralling into another significant food crisis.

Not only is there the issue of the trade war bankrupting farmers, who are already disappearing from the American landscape, but also the increasing reliance on food imports.

This pushes us into a vicious cycle, as the countries importing most of our food are the same countries targeted by the trade war: China and Mexico.

As the trade war continues and

more farmers throw in the towel, we become even more reliant on the same countries who are no longer accepting our exports. And as tariffs continue to rise even further, our food supplies will continue to diminish.There’s really only one solution (short of putting an end to the trade war):

1. Learn how to be completely self-sustainable in terms of food production, including livestock husbandry, trapping and hunting, and growing your own fruits and vegetables

2. Prepare to exercise your 2nd Amendment rights to defend your resources from others who fail to prepare

At this point, it’s a coin toss on which scenario will be the first to instigate a societal collapse. And when the coin lands, you can be sure it’ll set off a domino effect. In the end, there’s only one option: prepare now...or risk survival later.

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The 5Foundation Stones of Survival

Our world is currently overrun with technology - and it’s only the beginning. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as certain aspects of technology offer endless opportunities for survivalists.

However, at the same time, the growing reliance on technology could also be our downfall. If we - and especially our children - become totally dependent on technology for every aspect of our lives, what happens when the SHTF and technology is no longer available?

Imagine this: SHTF tomorrow. Less than 24 hours and the world will never be the same. Will you be prepared? Well, you’re a survivalist – of course you’ll be prepared.

But what about your kids? Your friends and family? Neighbors? Will they know what to do without Google answering every last-minute thought?

The truth is simple: if they don’t adapt to life without technology, they won’t survive. For this reason, preparing

your loved ones for SHTF scenarios is just as important as preparing yourself.

And in the case of technology collapsing, there are 5 skills imperative for survival:

• Learning how to cook from scratch, with fresh ingredients gathered yourself

• Knowing basic healthcare skills to avoid relying on doctors or heavy doses of medication

• Developing your mental strength and keeping your emotions in control

• Staying calm and reacting accordingly to tough times, disasters and serious SHTF situations

• Training in self-defense with and without weapons

Every how-to article, every survival

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skills lesson, every gear guide and review - all of it will trace back to these 5 foundation stones of survival.

And while technology can supplement and aid in addressing these 5 foundation stones, we should never allow that supplementation to be replaced with dependency. Start teaching your loved ones today – so they can thank you tomorrow.

Survival Skill #14 Off-Grid Internet Communication

Going off-grid is a common goal in survivalist circles - and for good reason. When SHTF, chances are high the national power grid won’t be functional.

With the political and economic atmosphere being what it is today, self-reliance will be the only way to access food and water long-term.

But that still leaves one major concern: if you go off-grid before SHTF, how will you stay connected to the internet?

This isn’t a passing question of updating social media or keeping in touch with friends. We live in a digital world. Not only do some of us work 100% online, but most of us rely on the internet for updates in world news. This includes information on potential SHTF scenarios.

Fortunately, accessing the internet when off-grid is not impossible. In this edition of Survival Skills, we discuss 4 off-grid ways to access the internet.

1. Cell Phone Data

Most rural, off the grid locations still have cell towers within reach. If your off-grid homestead is in the tower’s range, any cell phone with data connection capabilities can be used to access the internet.

You can also use your cell phone as a “hotspot” to connect other devices, such as laptops and desktop computers. You don’t need to drive into town to top up on data, either. Most banks with

online banking options will purchase cell phone data on your behalf.

If, on the other hand, you run out before you get a chance to load more, your network service provider might have the option to connect offline for the express purpose of purchasing data.

One downside to cell phone data connections - particularly in rural areas - is they’re typically slower than other options.

However, it’s an especially economic

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choice, as data bundles can be purchased at a relatively low cost. If your lifestyle isn’t bandwidth-intensive, it’s definitely the simplest option.

Pros:• One of the most cost-effective

ways to get off-grid internet access• Ability to make and receive phone

calls • Completely mobile – you can

take your cell phone with you anywhere

• Use WiFi hotspot or tether to keep other devices connected

Cons:• Typically slow connection• Small screen size (unless using

hotspot/tether method) • Impractical and costly for

downloading large files and/or streaming

2. Hotspot Devices

While using your cell phone as a hotspot is one way to access the internet off-grid, another perhaps more practical way is getting a designated wireless hotspot device.

Examples include the T-Mobile Sonic 2.0 4G Mobile Hotspot and Clear Spot Voyager Wireless Hotspot.

Such devices use either 3G or 4G

internet connections and are sold by most cell phone companies and technology/connectivity companies. If you wait it out, you might even be able to upgrade to a 5G device in the future.

You will need to purchase a WiFi antenna and signal amplifier if you’re

in a particularly isolated area, but regardless, this is one of the easiest ways to stay connected long-term.

The only major downside is you still need to be within range of WiFi signal towers (even with the signal amplifier). If you’re particularly resourceful, you can save some money by making your own WiFi signal amplifying antenna!

Pros:• Quick, easy way to connect

multiple devices• Typically a much faster connection

than cell phone data plans• More cost-effective than most

satellites, with lower hardware costs

Cons:• Increased cost when compared to

cell phone data• If your off-grid homestead is a

hidden underground bunker, you’ll need to sacrifice your low-visibility

with above-ground installations of additional antennas (particularly in extremely remote locations)

3. Satellite Connection

Satellite internet connectivity is an attractive option for those who travel

a lot and/or have an isolated, off-grid homestead or bunker.

If you find (or suspect) regular cell phone data and hotspot connections won’t work because of your distance from signal towers, then a satellite connection is the first and best option.

This is partially thanks to companies like WildBlue and HughesNet, who offer fast, surprisingly affordable solutions in almost all U.S. locations.

However, a major drawback is that satellites are very power-intensive. Unless you can designate a few solar panels solely to providing them power, you’ll need to switch them off when not in use.

And if you don’t, you’ll be burning through 20 to 30 Watts at all times.

Bonus: RV satellite systems are especially ideal for those living (or

planning to live) off-grid in a mobile home, whether it be a trailer or RV. The only real downside is the initial setup cost: expect to spend at least $2,000+ on the hardware and installation for a good-quality, roof-mounted system.

That said, it’s absolutely worth the investment, as such systems are capable of pulling a satellite signal in even the most remote, desolate boondocking locations.

Pros:• Access the internet in areas where

cell phone data and wireless hotspot devices are ineffective

• Incredibly fast download and upload speed

• Most companies offering satellite internet connectivity solutions will bundle satellite TV services into your subscription so you can still catch up on your favorite shows without paying multiple bills

Cons:• Depending on the company/service

provider, you might experience a decrease in your connectivity speed during peak hours (though the same can be said for cell phone

data and hotspot solutions)• The hardware costs will add up

quickly• Your connection strength is

weather dependant: light cloud cover might interrupt signal intermittently, while heavy cover might obliterate it completely

• Inevitable and unavoidable latency issues when streaming, gaming and/or video calling

4. Ham Radios

Your last option is using a ham radio to gain internet access through a repeater network.

We recommend investing in a ham radio in addition to other options. This is because, in a SHTF scenario, it might be your only way to stay connected if all other infrastructures are compromised.

To be fair, ham radios aren’t a practical solution for dealing with large files or streaming. But as a SHTF contingency plan? They’re literally perfect.

Besides, ham radios actually have a long, rich history with internet

connectivity. Before the internet we know today existed, operators used something called Packet Radio. If the SHTF in a way that wipes out the nation’s internet access in its entirety, Packet Radio technology remains an accessible solution.

The main thing to look out for when using a ham radio connection during a non-emergency situation is the law. It might be illegal to access certain areas of the internet this way. Likewise, don’t enter any personal data or login details either.

Pros:• Accessible without internet via

Packet Radio technology• Affordable solution • Great back-up plan when the

SHTF

Cons:• Slow speeds • Better to have in addition to

another option (back-up plan)• Illegal to access certain parts of the

internet

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Test your KnowledgeAfter studying this training, we encourage you to test your knowledge with this quiz. The answers can be found at the bottom right hand corner of this page.

1: What’s the primary reason for wanting internet access when living off-grid?

A. Keeping up with my favorite shows online

B. Accessing world news for potential SHTF scenarios

C. Staying updated on developing trends

2: What’s the best way to purchase cell phone data?

A. Using online portals before running out of data

B. Waiting until my data runs out and making a special trip to the nearest town

C. Relying on my network provider to let me purchase data offline using my device

3: Which of the following is NOT a pro for cell phone data?

A. Relatively cheapB. Convenient for downloading

large filesC. Can be used as a hotspot

4: Wireless hotspot devices currently use the following connection type(s):

A. 3G onlyB. 3G, 4G, and 5GC. 3G and 4G

5: A wireless hotspot device requires above-ground installation for signal amplifying antennas:

A. Only if your off-grid location is underground

B. Only if your off-grid location is especially remote

C. Regardless of location

6: Which statement is TRUE of satellite connections?

A. Cheaper than all wireless hotspot devices

B. Capable of providing internet connection anywhere in the country

C. Not weather-dependent

7: How much does a quality roof-mounted satellite system typically cost?

A. Less than $1,000B. Between $1,000 and $2,000C. $2,000 or more

8: Satellite connections are:

A. The most power-intensive off-grid internet access solution

B. Similar to hotspot devices in terms of power consumption

C. The least power-intensive, off-grid internet access solution

9: What type of situation is a ham radio best used for?

A. Accessing your online banking portal

B. Uploading large filesC. Emergency SHTF back-up

communication

10: How dependent is a ham radio on the regular internet?

A. Totally dependent - if infrastructure is taken down, ham radios won’t work for online access

B. Not at all dependent- ham radios can use pre-internet Pocket Radio connectivity

C. Somewhat dependent - ham radios need the nation’s infrastructure at least partially intact

QUIZ ANSWERS1b, 2a, 3b, 4c, 5c, 6b, 7c, 8a, 9c, 10b

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