Being prepared is common sense

Local columnist

link Kent McManigal

The water outage in Portales last week should have awakened a few people. From previous experience, I doubt it did.

For years, I have advocated preparing for possible problems. No, I’m not a “doomsday prepper” waiting for a magnetic pole shift, the collapse of civilization, or a solar flare burning out the power grid. And I don’t believe in zombies. I simply believe in staying ready for anything that could disrupt normal 21st Century life — things like having the water shut off.

No one should have been scrambling to find water; everyone should have already stocked at least a few days’ supply of water around the house or business. This is a dry region, after all.

Yet, how many have done so? How many realized their mistake and moved to correct it after this water crisis?

Having the water shut off city-wide for a day or so is nothing compared to many things that could happen.

Being prepared isn’t paranoia — it’s common sense. Our grandparents knew it. Any preparation is better than none.

Yet suggestions to be prepared are usually countered with excuses and denial.

• “I don’t need to stock up on anything — I can just walk to the store.”

• “I live in a good neighborhood.”

• “I can’t afford to buy anything extra to put aside.”

• “That will never happen here — not to me.”

Even after unexpected problems crop up, the response is “I survived OK.”

Yes, this time. What if it had been worse, had lasted longer, or had been more widespread? What about next time?

Survival isn’t the only consideration. Comfort is another.

It doesn’t take “the end of the world as we know it” to make “preps” handy.

Many times I have drawn upon my preparations to make minor inconveniences less difficult. In fact, I’ve had fun during minor emergencies while other people ran around in a confused panic. I am usually the person my friends come to when they find themselves caught unprepared for any small difficulty — and I normally have something that can help. But I can’t help everyone other than by telling them they need to take responsibility for their own lives.

You can’t count on others — those who saw the wisdom in making preparations — coming to your aid. They have to look out for themselves and their family first. It’s not selfishness; it is responsibility. You and your family are your responsibility. Don’t shirk.

Look at the problems most likely to happen where you live, and find out what you would need most if they do occur. Think of simple, general things you might do. Stop looking for excuses and just start small today.

Farwell’s Kent McManigal champions liberty. Contact him at:

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