U.S. Preppers Count – How Many in the States?

According to a survey conducted by Finder.com, 29% of Americans reported taking steps towards emergency preparedness in the past year, up from 25% in 2017. The survey also revealed that 39% of millennials and 40% of Gen Zers have spent money on prepping. This indicates a growing segment of Americans who consider themselves “preppers,” individuals prepared to survive without government assistance during disasters. The motivations behind prepping vary, with some fearing a collapse of society after the 2024 election, while others express concerns about climate change and the government’s ability to respond to natural disasters. Experts suggest that a loss of trust in government is a common trigger for people to begin prepping, and the number of younger, more liberal individuals preparing for a crisis tied to a Trump-Biden election is increasing.

Key Takeaways

• 29% of Americans reported taking steps towards emergency preparedness in the past year.
• 39% of millennials and 40% of Gen Zers have spent money on prepping.
• Motivations for prepping vary, including concerns about societal collapse and climate change.
• A loss of trust in government is a common trigger for people to begin prepping.
• The number of younger, more liberal individuals preparing for a crisis tied to a Trump-Biden election is increasing.

Prepping Strategies and Preparedness Measures

When it comes to preparing for emergencies, preppers employ a variety of strategies and measures to ensure their survival. These individuals prioritize self-reliance and take proactive steps to be ready for any possible scenario. Here are some key prepping strategies and preparedness measures:

1. Survival Knowledge and Skills

To effectively navigate emergency situations, preppers understand the importance of acquiring survival knowledge and skills. This includes learning about first aid and emergency medical procedures, mastering self-defense techniques, and developing self-sufficiency abilities. By honing these skills, preppers can confidently respond to challenging circumstances.

2. Stockpiling Supplies

One fundamental aspect of prepping is stockpiling essential supplies. This involves storing ample amounts of food, water, medications, and other vital resources to sustain oneself during an emergency. Preppers carefully plan and rotate their supplies, ensuring that they are adequately prepared for extended periods of self-reliance.

3. Building Survival Retreats

Some preppers go the extra mile by building survival retreats or self-sustaining homesteads. These retreats serve as secure locations where individuals and their families can shelter in place during disasters. They are often equipped with provisions, alternative energy sources, and fortified structures to withstand external threats.

4. First Aid Training

Preppers recognize the importance of first aid training and regularly update their knowledge in this area. Being equipped to provide medical assistance in emergency situations can be crucial when professional help is inaccessible. By obtaining first aid certifications, preppers can efficiently treat injuries and potentially save lives.

5. Self-Defense Training

Self-defense training is another vital aspect of prepping. Preppers understand that protecting themselves and their loved ones may become necessary in emergency situations. Learning self-defense techniques allows them to confidently handle dangerous encounters and safeguard their well-being.

6. Self-Sufficiency Training

Preppers often invest time and effort into self-sufficiency training. This involves acquiring skills such as gardening, livestock rearing, food preservation, and water purification. By becoming more self-sufficient, preppers reduce their dependence on external resources, enhancing their ability to survive for extended periods.

These strategies and measures form the foundation of prepping, enabling individuals to be prepared for a wide range of emergencies. Preppers understand that by taking proactive steps and investing in their preparedness, they can increase their chances of survival during times of crisis.

The History and Evolution of Survivalism in the United States

The modern survivalist movement in the United States has its origins in government policies, threats of nuclear warfare, religious beliefs, and fiction works that depicted social or economic collapse. During the Cold War era, public bomb shelters and personal fallout shelters were promoted, and training programs for children were introduced as part of civil defense programs. The Great Depression also played a role in shaping the need for preparedness.

In the 1960s and 1970s, concerns over economic collapse, nuclear war, and supply shortages led to a surge of interest in survivalism. As uncertainty loomed, individuals sought to secure their own safety and survival. The movement gained more prominence in the 1980s, with books like Howard Ruff’s “How to Prosper During the Coming Bad Years” and Bruce D. Clayton’s “Life After Doomsday” resonating with a wider audience. These works promoted personal preparedness and provided practical advice on surviving various scenarios.

The survivalist movement continued to grow in the 1990s, fueled by fears of the Y2K computer bug and the passage of the Federal Assault Weapons Ban. These events further propelled individuals to embrace the principles of self-sufficiency and personal resilience. Today, survivalism encompasses a wide range of preparedness measures, from addressing personal adversity to anticipating global catastrophes. Survivalist retreats, built to withstand potential threats, have become increasingly popular among those seeking greater security in an uncertain world.

The concept of survivalism reflects the innate human desire to protect oneself and loved ones in times of crisis. As history has shown, societal, economic, and environmental uncertainties can fuel the survivalist movement. With an ever-changing landscape, the need for personal preparedness remains a priority for many individuals in the United States.