While a zombie apocalypse might seem like an ideal time to settle debts and catch up on reading, 28 Years Later reminds us that surviving in a world overrun by the undead is no easy feat.
We consulted with survival experts and professional preppers to uncover what tactics work—and what don’t—when preparing for doomsday scenarios. Given recent global events, the concept of a zombie apocalypse feels less fictional than ever.
Stay Home: Your Best Defense
John Ramey, founder of survivalist organization The Prepared, advises against investing in a bunker. “Instead of viewing your home as a fortress,” he states,
“We should strengthen our homes and communities. For example, install doors that won’t easily break. Your home can be your best refuge during an emergency.”
Ramey emphasizes that you should evaluate how long you could realistically stay at home without utilities. “Consider this scenario: If you suddenly lost gas, water, electricity, and communication, how well could you manage?”
“A two-week survival plan is essential, covering most emergencies like natural disasters. Some even prepare to last six months. Personally, I’m equipped to sustain myself indefinitely, thanks to my ability to grow food and purify water.”
Essential Supplies
Neglecting preparation can lead to dire consequences. Ramey emphasizes the importance of basic necessities. “Consider Maslow’s hierarchy: food, water, health, and communication,” he advises.
“Stock first aid supplies and hygiene products. For water, a standard is 1 gallon per person per day. For a family of three over two weeks, that’s 45 gallons.”
“You should also consider your long-term water capabilities. Do you own water purifiers or treatment systems? Knowing how to make wild water safe to drink is crucial.”
An “emergency escape bag” is another vital asset. Cameron Carlson, survival expert and member of the Zombie Research Group, has a handy checklist:
“Include a lighter or waterproof matches, an emergency blanket, a sleeping bag, freeze-dried food, a flashlight, batteries, a solar radio, a water filter, a camp stove, a knife, and a medical kit. Don’t forget a tarp for emergency shelter.”
“A great hack is high-quality steel wool and a 9-volt battery for starting fires. Steel wool is compact and fits well in any bag.”
Ramey advises investing in a bicycle as your survival vehicle. “Bicycles are one of the most efficient machines invented by humans,” he explains.
“Experts often cringe while watching ‘The Walking Dead’ because characters still drive gasoline-powered cars after years. Gasoline only lasts about six months, and the likelihood of finding usable gas post-apocalypse is slim at best.”
Essential Skills
Having supplies is worthless if you lack the necessary skills to use them.
“Fundamental first aid skills are crucial,” Ramey adds. “If someone gets hurt—like if Daryl from The Walking Dead has a crossbow bolt in his shoulder—do you know how to handle it? The rapid advancements of the past century have led to a decline in basic survival knowledge.
“Many of our grandparents possessed vital skills for dealing with injuries. Taking a first aid course is invaluable, but know that you can’t always rely on quick assistance.”
Outdoor survival skills are equally important. “People no longer know how to navigate without GPS, which is resulting in what’s called ‘death by GPS’ in search and rescue. Can you read a map or build a shelter to survive harsh conditions?”
“You should also focus on conflict resolution and situational awareness. Are you aware of your surroundings? Can you defuse tense situations without resorting to violence?”
Where Should You Go?
When the time comes to evacuate your home, knowing where to go is vital.
“If you reside in a densely populated city during a zombie apocalypse, consider relocating to rural areas,” Ramey recommends. “However, even when isolated, remember the value of community.
“Community often proves more beneficial than the lone wolf survival trope. In challenging times, collaboration can make all the difference.”
While some fear humanity may turn on itself during an apocalyptic scenario, author Michał Zalewski, in his book Practical Eschatology: A User’s Guide to the End of the World, disagrees.
“Most individuals would choose to suffer quietly over harming an innocent person. The real threat lies in heightened aggression towards outsiders. Yet with a clear enemy, like zombies, it could unify rather than divide us,” he states.
“Ultimately, we are not machines. We need rest, and we cannot acquire every skill necessary for survival. Building good relationships with doctors and tradespeople is essential.”
Understanding the Zombies
What about the zombies? According to expert Cameron Carlson, survival depends on whether they are the fast, aggressive type (think 28 Days Later) or the slow-moving variety like in The Walking Dead.
“If they’re fast, stealth is your best bet,” he explains. “Avoid them by sticking to shadows and underground paths. If zombies are slow, simply navigate around them.”
Carlson also suggests employing dogs trained to detect danger. “Dogs have superior olfactory senses compared to humans,” he points out.
“If your dog shows signs of agitation, like growling or a change in pace, something is off.”
Another consideration is the differing attitudes towards gun ownership in the UK versus the US. How might this affect your zombie survival chances?
“Guns can be both a benefit and a drawback,” Ramey notes. “In a zombie invasion at home, a shotgun might be your last line of defense. However, in times of chaos, armed civilians can lead to disorder.”
“Recent events highlight that even minor emergencies can provoke widespread panic, showcasing both the advantages and pitfalls of gun culture.”
Source: www.sciencefocus.com