There are a few different scenarios that could leave us without power for several days, possibly weeks, or even longer. Without power ATMs don't work, banks won't be open, businesses won't be able to rescue us, then what? In the current climate of the world it isn't too far from reality, could you survive?
If North Korea decides to emit a electromagnetic pulse (EMP) then our power goes down, cell phones won't work, most newer cars won't run, and the power across the country is gone for who knows how long... are you ready?
If you have given any thought to these types of occurrences, then you have done some research I'm sure, if not then you might want to start thinking about it now.
You would want to have some money available, bills and coins if possible, as I stated in other posts a food storage will be important, emergency supplies are also necessary for those unthinkable situations.
If you don't have any cash on hand, do you have other items you can barter with? A few things you might want to stock up on are those same items our forefather's used before currencies were created. Spices, teas, bullets, blankets, alcohol, chocolate, condiments, aspirins, fresh fruit, etc.. Many of these items can be stored long-term so you won't need to replenish them often, except for the few that you will want to keep on hand fresh like the fruit. Most everything that was listed for the food storage, and emergency preparedness kit can also be bartered if necessary, so have a good store of these items just in case.
The items that will most likely bring you the most value are alcohol and tobacco products. Vice items will be difficult to find for those who need and desire these items. Aside from the obvious, alcohol can serve other needs as well, disinfectant and fire starter are two possibilities.
Spices and minerals can be an excellent bargaining item, salt, pepper, and other items will go first from the markets as there primary purpose is to help flavor our foods, there are other uses as well, salt can preserve foods for long term storage, and other spices can have a significant medicinal purpose. if you have a healthy store of these much wanted items you are definitely in a better position than most.
Sugar, agave and honey will be in strong demand as well. It will help to make foods that might not be so tasty more tolerable. All of these have a long shelf life if they are stored properly.
Coffee and Teas are another item that will be sought after by many in an emergency situation. The newer packaging process of both of these items will help you to store them for the long term so that when they are needed they will remain usable.
Fresh fruits and vegetables will definitely be on the top of the list for most people. If you don't garden you might want to start. You may not want to barter these items unless necessary, keep them for you and your family you will be glad you have them if that time ever comes!
Heirloom seeds will be needed for future gardening if any type of emergency is long term, as well as making good bartering items. Heirloom seeds have not had any alterations or gmo implementation done to them.
I discussed this in a previous post, but I can't stress enough how valuable toilet paper will be to you, your family and a very successful bartering item. If you have the space and can keep a lot in storage it will reap you many personal and survival rewards. Wet wipes will also bring a good price if you have them on hand, your bum will thank you after a few days without water for a shower! And of course the wipes will also make great bartering items.
Staying with the hygienic items, tooth paste, toothbrushes, soap, colognes, dry shampoo, razors, dental floss, deodorant, baking soda, and any other toiletries you can think of will definitely help to keep you healthy and bartering for the long haul.
Medications will be important to have in those times of isolation and need. As stated previously, aspirin, acetaminophen (tylenol), antibiotic ointments and pills. Some antibiotics are available in pet stores for use with tropical and salt water fish, they are not always packaged the best but they are most of the time the same strength as antibiotics that the doctor would prescribe for you in the office. Be careful with storing these items, you wouldn't want children to get hold of any of these items! Most items for digestive upset are also good to have on hand, cold, allergy, sinus and many other over the counter items can be very beneficial to have available when needed, think ahead and save yourself some grief in the future!
Ammunition is a valuable item to have both for self protection and bartering. Even if you don't own weapons, those around you may not be prepared for what could possible happen. Use it to your benefit, have a store available for those tough times! It might be best to only barter and exchange this item with those that you know and trust, family, close friends that you know won't use them to take you stores of items.
Often times preppers are called crazy, out of touch with reality and other not so nice things. Because you are ready for any emergency doesn't make you a prepper nor crazy. Think ahead, be ready to keep your family safe and the world will be a much better place, at your house at least!