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Introduction
As time passes we will experience many catastrophies, some of which may be cataclysmic. Each of us should prepare as an individual for our role. We should inventory our resources and plan how to apply them to recovery operations. What are our resources: knowlege, tools, materials and will to survive.
Continuity
Our culture and technology is dependent upon continuity of our physical and cultural environment. Extensive disruption can cause dmage to the fabric of out lives that cannot be repaired of replaced.
Electric power
We are all aware that loss of electric power for a few moments is disruptive. Cash registers stop. Computers stop, lights go out, clocks stop. After a fraction of a second, capacitors discharge. Emergency lighting comes on. Exit lights are visible. Elevators stop. Then, in minutes, batteries run down, emergency generators come on line all but critical equipment is shut down. Communications becomes erratic. Internet routers stop. Wireless phones don't work. Recharging cell phones is impossible. No cooking on electric stoves or microwave. Air conditioning stops. Pumps stop. Within hours or days, local fuel reserves are consumed. What are people doing while this is going on? Restart the computer. Wait for other cars where the traffic lights are not working. If you are driving, slow down and watch out for traffic disruption. Stop and buy gas when you can. Find a flashlight. Reset the clock.Petroleum
Loss of petroleum products may not be abrupt like losing electric power. The causes are not easily predictable. Transport strike, hurricane damage to facilities, financial disruption, war, boycott, disease, quarantine. Terrorist activity. Communication disruption. Civil disorder.Loss of basic skills
Some catastrophies may result in extensive loss and prolonged hardship. We may be blasted back to the stone age. What is the best assurance that we can quickly recover?Maintain Skills
The following skills should be maintained.
Build photocells generators power plants make steel provide standards make plastics make cement make gasoline find oil lights houses unpowered tools animal power, oxen,horses,camels,llamas transportation land, sea, air communication,satellite,fiber,microwave,radio,wire,telephone,mail.
