No bunker fantasies. No 30-year food hoarding without a plan. This is practical preparedness for gun owners — home defense setups that work, go-bags you will actually carry, and medical training that saves lives.
Power grid failures change the threat environment. Most urban crime spikes within 48–72 hours. Your response in the first six hours determines your options for the next two weeks.
Hours 0–6
Immediate Assessment
▸Verify power outage is regional, not just your home
▸Check battery radio or NOAA for emergency broadcasts
▸Inventory food, water, fuel immediately
▸Charge all devices while any power remains
▸Notify family members of situation and meeting point
Hours 6–24
Secure and Stabilize
▸Fill bathtubs (100 gal emergency water per tub)
▸Move perishables to cooler with ice from freezer
▸Secure perimeter — lock gates, ensure exterior lighting is manual
▸Contact neighbors — community awareness is a force multiplier
▸Establish a radio check schedule for news updates
Day 2–3
Assess Duration
▸If no restoration in sight, evaluate bug-out vs. shelter-in-place
▸Bug-out if: urban area, water supply compromised, civil unrest
▸Stay if: rural, water source available, community trust established
▸Fuel up vehicles now before gas stations are overwhelmed
▸Establish watch rotation if civil unrest is possible
