We may be lucky and, in our lifetime, may not have to worry about a SHTF scenario. That would be splendid. But, in that event, the following basics will be there for your children and children’s children. So take note so they can read these at a time before they are really needed!

The Successful Survivalist’s Rules of Life:
1. Carry a pocket knife.
2. Get comfortable with lighting a fire.
3. Learn to shoot and clean a gun.
4. Be able to perform basic first aid.
5. Keep your blades sharp.
6. Work hard and smart.
7. Shop at yard sales and thrift stores.
8. Exercise regularly.
9. Share with others.
10. Grow and preserve your own food.
11. Eat a balanced diet.
12. Expect that things will not go as planned.  Have a backup plan.  Then have a backup plan for your backup plan.
13. Value relationships.
14. Forgive freely. Allow yourself and others the opportunity to change.
15. Practice using what you have.
16. Don’t allow fear to make your decisions for you.
17. Help someone learn a skill you have mastered.
18. Be aware of your surroundings.
19. Plan for the everyday emergencies as well as “end of the world” emergencies.
20. Be grateful for what you have.
21. Get out and stay out of debt.  Build an emergency fund.
22. Store food you will eat. Use it, then replace it.
23. Hug your loved ones. Every day.
24. Know potential terror targets near you.
25. Plan multiple evacuation routes.
26. Keep survival gear in your vehicle.
27. Believe in a power greater than yourself.
28. Create opportunities for your children to enjoy the outdoors.
29. Shoes matter. Own some quality hiking shoes.
30. Drink plenty of water.

There are nearly thirty more rules or tips over on Food, Storage, and Survival and we encourage you to go take a look! These may all seem very basic and obvious but it is surprising how many survivalists and preppers forget these basics in lieu of more complicated survival techniques.

Remember, when the SHTF it is not the businessmen and computer experts that will be paving the way into a new future but the men and women who understand these rules and know how to find fresh water, make a fire, and understand the finer points of not freezing to death in the middle of winter!