Preparing for System Attacks: A Guide to Survival and Resilience

HappyDem

— 12 min read

In a world increasingly reliant on interconnected infrastructure, disruptions to key systems—such as electricity, water, and communication—can be devastating. The threat of cyberattacks, natural disasters, or other crises can cause long-lasting disruptions to these systems, which are crucial for daily life. Preparation is key to minimizing the impact of these disruptions. By taking proactive measures and investing in the right tools and knowledge, you can better protect yourself and your family in the event of an attack. This guide outlines the critical systems to consider preparing for, and offers actionable steps both before and after an attack.

I. Preparing Before the Attack

Effective preparation involves understanding the systems most likely to be disrupted and equipping yourself with the necessary tools and knowledge to cope with those disruptions. While you can’t predict every scenario, you can take steps to ensure you’re not left vulnerable when things go wrong.

1) Electric Grid

A failure of the electric grid can be particularly challenging, as it impacts everything from communication to heating. To prepare, you should invest in solar-powered chargers to keep your phones and essential electronics functional. Battery-powered or hand-crank radios are invaluable in maintaining access to emergency broadcasts when the power is down. Additionally, LED flashlights and extra batteries are necessary to light up your space, while portable power banks can keep your devices charged when the grid is out. These items will help you stay connected and functional in the event of a long-term outage.

2) Gas Lines

When gas lines fail, heating and cooking can become difficult or impossible. To ensure you're ready, purchase a portable gas stove or butane stove for backup cooking, and a camping stove or alcohol stove for additional food preparation options. A backup heating source, such as a small electric heater or even a wood stove, can be crucial for warmth when the central heating system goes down. If you plan on using these items, remember to stock up on fuel to power them, as running out of fuel can leave you vulnerable.

3) Cell Towers

Without functioning cell towers, communication becomes almost impossible. One way to prepare for this scenario is to invest in a satellite phone, which will allow you to communicate even when local cell networks are down. Additionally, offline maps and essential documents are crucial to have stored, as they will provide vital information when internet services are unavailable. A portable Wi-Fi hotspot can also be an alternative if cell networks are down but Wi-Fi connections are still operational.

4) Satellites

Satellite communications are critical for GPS navigation and long-distance communication. To mitigate the impact of a satellite failure, consider purchasing a satellite phone or a satellite messenger to ensure you can still communicate. A personal locator beacon (PLB) can also be helpful in emergencies, allowing you to send distress signals. In addition to these, offline data storage, such as downloaded maps, documents, and survival guides, will give you the necessary information when satellite-based navigation systems are no longer accessible.

4) Water Systems

Water is one of the most vital resources, and a failure in municipal water systems can lead to severe consequences. Investing in water filtration systems, such as a LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini, will allow you to filter and drink water from almost any source. Large water storage containers will let you stockpile clean water, ensuring you have access during extended outages. Water purification tablets are another important addition, especially for treating potentially contaminated water. Consider setting up a rainwater harvesting system to collect water from rainfall, which can be purified and stored for later use.

6) Clean Air

Air quality may deteriorate due to pollution, wildfires, or chemical attacks, making air filtration essential. N95 masks are a straightforward solution to protecting yourself from harmful particles, while an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove contaminants from the air indoors. In addition to this, creating a DIY air filtration system using a box fan and furnace filter is an inexpensive but effective way to improve indoor air quality. Battery-powered ventilation fans can also help circulate air in the event of poor air quality or dangerous fumes.

7) Food Systems

Food shortages are a common issue during crises, particularly when supply chains break down. To prepare, stock up on non-perishable food like canned goods, rice, pasta, and freeze-dried meals. An emergency food kit provides long-term nutrition that can last for years without refrigeration. In addition to stored food, you may want to purchase portable cooking equipment such as a camping stove or a solar oven to ensure you can prepare meals even without electricity. Finally, seeds for growing your own food can provide a renewable source of nourishment if disruptions continue for an extended period.

8) Monetary Systems

In the event of economic collapse or a banking system failure, access to traditional currency may become difficult. To protect yourself, it’s wise to invest in precious metals like gold or silver, which are considered safe stores of value during periods of economic instability. Additionally, keeping cash reserves on hand in small denominations will ensure you can still purchase essential goods. Cryptocurrency is another modern alternative for storing and transferring value outside the traditional banking system. Lastly, having access to a local barter network could be invaluable for trading goods and services in a world where cash is no longer accepted.

9) Communications Systems

A breakdown of communications systems can lead to isolation. To mitigate this, consider investing in two-way radios to communicate with family members and neighbors when traditional methods fail. If cell networks are down, a satellite communication device will ensure you can still get in touch with others. Emergency signaling devices, such as flares or whistles, can also be used to signal for help or gather attention.

10) Transportation Systems

Without functioning transportation infrastructure, evacuating or acquiring resources can be difficult. Bicycles are an excellent alternative to vehicles, as they don’t require fuel or electricity. Additionally, portable fuel storage can be crucial for keeping your car functional if fuel stations are no longer operating. If you have access to a manual or electric vehicle, these can provide a critical means of transportation in a grid-down scenario.

11) Banking & Financial Systems

In a collapse of banking and financial systems, access to your money could be limited or impossible. To prepare, keep a stash of hard currency—physical cash that can still be used for transactions. Barter items can also serve as valuable trade goods if the value of currency depreciates. Precious metals, such as gold or silver, can be used as an alternative store of wealth. Finally, if you’ve set up cryptocurrency accounts, these can allow for decentralized transactions outside the traditional banking system.

12) Emergency Services

When emergency services become overwhelmed or unavailable, it’s important to be able to handle medical and rescue needs yourself. Equip yourself with a first-aid kit, stocked with supplies to treat common injuries and illnesses. Emergency medical supplies, including items like tourniquets and burn kits, can be life-saving in critical situations. Additionally, having survival manuals on hand for reference will help guide you through situations where professional help is unavailable.

13) Healthcare Systems

In the event that healthcare systems are compromised, having medical supplies and knowledge can make all the difference. Make sure to stock up on prescription medications that you or your family members need, as well as over-the-counter remedies for common ailments. Basic first-aid skills can be invaluable, so consider taking a first aid or CPR course to be better equipped to handle medical emergencies.

14) Waste Management Systems

Disruptions to waste management systems can lead to unsanitary conditions. To mitigate this, invest in a portable toilet and biodegradable bags for waste disposal. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, a composting toilet can provide an eco-friendly way to handle waste without the need for plumbing systems.

15) Education Systems

When schools close or systems fail, maintaining access to education at home is crucial. Stock up on offline educational materials, such as e-books, videos, or printable worksheets, to keep learning going for children. Homeschooling kits can be a great resource, and workbooks and puzzles will help keep kids engaged and learning even in difficult circumstances.

In times of crisis, understanding your rights and having access to legal resources is vital. Keep backup identification—like copies of IDs, birth certificates, and passports—safe and easily accessible. Legal guides or books on survival law can help you navigate any legal challenges during a disaster. It's also wise to establish community agreements for shared resources and protection, ensuring mutual support if government systems break down.

17) Energy Systems (Non-Electric)

Alternative energy systems are essential if the grid fails. Install solar panels or purchase a wind turbine to generate power without relying on the electric grid. A backup generator can also be invaluable for powering essential appliances during an outage, though you'll need to have sufficient fuel reserves to run it.

18) Social Systems & Networks

When the social fabric of society begins to strain, local support networks become vital. Community tools and skills-sharing can be crucial for survival. Forming a neighborhood watch or support group ensures that resources and information are shared during crises. Having a reliable communication platform—such as a group chat or radio network—can also keep you connected to others when larger communication systems break down.

II. What You Can Do After the Attack

Once an attack or disruption to critical systems has occurred, your ability to react quickly and efficiently is crucial for your safety and survival. While the immediate aftermath can be chaotic, you can mitigate risks by relying on the preparations you've made. Below are practical steps to take after an attack, based on the different systems, to ensure you and your family are secure.

1) Electric Grid Failures

In the event of an electric grid failure, maintaining power is key to staying connected and functional. If the power goes out, use your solar-powered chargers to keep your phones and radios operational. Battery-powered or hand-crank radios will help you stay informed with emergency broadcasts. If the outage lasts for an extended period, use LED flashlights to provide light, and rely on your portable power banks to keep essential devices charged. Prioritize communication—especially if cell towers are down—by keeping a satellite phone or two-way radio on hand for backup communication.

2) Gas Line Disruptions

Without gas, heating and cooking become major challenges. If the gas system is down, use your portable gas stove or alcohol stove to cook meals. These are essential for maintaining a level of comfort in the short term. If you’re in need of warmth, you can use backup heating sources like electric heaters (if you still have power) or wood stoves. Be sure to conserve any extra fuel you’ve stored, as it may be difficult to replenish. Consider using solar ovens to prepare meals, which are effective in sunny conditions.

3) Cell Tower Failures

When cell towers are down, you won’t have traditional communication methods available. After an attack on cell towers, turn to satellite phones or two-way radios for communication. Satellite phones are particularly useful for making calls when the local cell network is unavailable. If you’ve preloaded offline maps on your devices, use them to navigate and stay informed. You may also want to establish a community communication system with neighbors, such as a regular check-in schedule or a designated gathering spot, to stay connected if phones are no longer reliable.

4) Satellite System Disruptions

Satellite-based services for communication, navigation, and data storage are vulnerable to disruptions. In the aftermath, rely on satellite phones for communication, especially if landlines or cellular networks are no longer operational. Personal locator beacons (PLBs) are helpful in sending distress signals, letting others know your location if you’re stranded or in need of help. If you’ve downloaded offline maps and important documents (like emergency guides, survival tactics, and personal identification), now is the time to refer to these resources. These items will allow you to adapt in the absence of GPS and satellite navigation.

5) Water System Failures

Water is one of the most critical needs during an emergency. If municipal water systems are disrupted, water filtration systems (such as LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini) will be essential for turning local water sources—like rivers, lakes, or streams—into drinkable water. Use your water storage containers to ensure you have a supply of clean water on hand. If the supply is limited, purification tablets can help make contaminated water safe for drinking. Additionally, set up or use any rainwater harvesting systems to gather fresh water, which can be filtered and stored for future use.

6) Clean Air

Air quality can quickly become an issue in the wake of an attack, especially if there’s pollution, wildfire smoke, or even chemical exposure. In this case, you’ll need to rely on N95 masks or other particulate respirators to filter out harmful particles. Additionally, air purifiers or a DIY air filtration system (using a box fan and furnace filter) can help clean the air inside your home. Make sure you have battery-powered ventilation fans to circulate air if needed, particularly in confined spaces or during extreme temperatures.

7) Food System Failures

If food systems break down—whether due to supply chain disruptions, production halts, or transportation failures—you’ll need to rely on your stockpile of canned goods and non-perishable items. Ration your food supply carefully, prioritizing nutrients and calories to ensure long-term sustainability. Use your portable cooking equipment to prepare meals without access to a stove or oven. For longer-term food security, begin growing your own food, utilizing seeds you’ve stored for a garden. If you don’t have one yet, consider setting up a hydroponic or indoor garden to grow food year-round.

8) Monetary System Disruptions

In the event of a collapse in the monetary system, having precious metals (gold, silver, etc.) on hand will be crucial, as they serve as a store of value when fiat currency becomes unreliable. Additionally, keep cash reserves in small denominations for everyday transactions, as digital payments and ATM withdrawals might be unavailable. If you’ve set up cryptocurrency wallets, you can use them as an alternative currency. Finally, consider bartering as a backup method of trade—having tradeable goods such as tools, clothing, or non-perishable items can help you exchange for what you need.

9) Communications Systems Failures

Communication breakdowns are especially critical in emergencies. To overcome these, use two-way radios to communicate with local contacts or neighbors. If cell phones and landlines are down, satellite communication devices or emergency signaling devices (such as whistles, flares, or mirrors) will allow you to alert others to your situation. Setting up a community network before an attack—whether through pre-arranged meet-up spots or regular check-ins—can be invaluable in staying informed and organized.

10) Transportation Failures

If transportation systems are disrupted, such as gas shortages or damaged roads, bicycles become a valuable means of mobility. Ensure that you have extra fuel for vehicles or a manual or electric vehicle that doesn’t rely on external infrastructure. For longer journeys, you might want to have footwear and backpacks ready to walk long distances, as well as pre-planned routes that avoid congested or damaged roads.

11) Banking & Financial Systems Disruptions

After the collapse of banking or financial systems, people often struggle to access funds. If you have precious metals or hard currency (cash), you can still engage in trade and purchase necessary items. Make sure to barter for goods if you don't have access to currency. If you hold cryptocurrency, you may still be able to conduct digital transactions. Barter systems with your community will also prove valuable for acquiring goods and services if financial institutions are no longer functioning.

12) Emergency Services Failures

If emergency services are overwhelmed or non-existent, it’s critical to rely on the skills and resources you have prepared. Use your first-aid kits to tend to injuries, and take action based on emergency medical training you may have completed. If needed, you can apply tourniquets, treat burns, and address wounds with the materials at hand. Always have manuals or instruction guides that teach basic survival and first-aid skills to help guide your actions in critical situations.

13) Healthcare System Failures

When the healthcare system is compromised or unavailable, it’s crucial to rely on your stockpiled medications and first-aid supplies. If you or your family members are dependent on prescription medications, having a long-term supply becomes essential. In the absence of professionals, take advantage of any self-care guides, online medical resources, or offline survival books. You can also trade medical supplies or seek assistance from community members with medical expertise.

14) Waste Management Failures

When waste management systems collapse, sanitation becomes a major concern. Use portable toilets and biodegradable bags to manage human waste. If you have the space, a composting toilet can be a more permanent solution. Always make sure to maintain hygiene by using hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and sanitation supplies to reduce the risk of contamination.

15) Education System Failures

If educational institutions are closed or unavailable, focus on continuing education at home. Use offline educational materials, workbooks, or homeschooling kits to keep children engaged. If you’re teaching your own children or others, create a structured learning environment with scheduled activities. Consider starting a community-based education group with neighbors to share resources, knowledge, and teaching responsibilities.

In the event of legal or governmental system disruptions, it’s important to understand your rights. Keep copies of important legal documents and identification accessible, as they may be needed in situations involving law enforcement or authorities. If the legal system is no longer functional, set up local community agreements or self-governance systems with your neighbors for resolving disputes and sharing resources. Having a legal survival guide can help in times when the traditional legal system is unavailable.

17) Non-Electric Energy Systems Failures

When traditional energy systems are disrupted, you’ll need to rely on your solar panels, wind turbines, or backup generators for power. Be strategic about how you use the energy you generate, prioritizing essential devices like lights, communication tools, and cooking equipment. If possible, share energy resources with neighbors to ensure everyone can maintain basic functions.

18) Social Systems & Networks Failures

In the absence of a functioning social system, your local community becomes your primary support network. Collaborate with neighbors, family, and friends to share resources, information, and skills. Having pre-established local groups, such as neighborhood watches or co-ops, ensures mutual aid in times of crisis. Effective communication networks—whether through radios or group chats—will help everyone stay connected and informed.

In summary, your response to an attack or system failure hinges on your ability to use the resources you've prepared in advance. By staying calm, using your tools effectively, and relying on community support, you can navigate the challenges that arise when critical systems are disrupted. Your resilience and readiness will be key to enduring any crisis that comes your way.

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