As we move into Week 7 of our Baby Steps to Self-Sufficiency series, we’re continuing to build on the foundational skills and supplies that will help you and your family become more resilient and prepared for whatever comes your way. This week, we’re focusing on both essential food and water supplies as well as a crucial aspect of emergency preparedness: communication.

The Importance of Ham Radio in a Survival Situation

Let’s examine communication, a critical aspect of any survival strategy. In a disaster scenario, traditional forms of communication like cell phones and the Internet might be unreliable or completely unavailable. This is where a ham radio, also known as amateur radio, comes into play.

Ham radios are incredibly valuable in emergency situations because they can operate independently of the grid, allowing you to communicate over long distances when other systems are down. Whether you’re trying to get updates on the situation, coordinate with family members, or reach out to emergency services, a ham radio can be an indispensable tool.

Becoming a licensed ham radio operator isn’t as daunting as it might seem. In the United States, there are three levels of licensing: Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. The Technician license is an entry-level certification, and it requires passing a test that covers basic regulations, operating practices, and electronics theory. Studying for and passing this exam will give you the ability to operate on local and some international frequencies.

To get started, you’ll want to research local ham radio clubs or online resources that offer study guides and practice exams. Many communities also offer classes that can help you prepare for the licensing test. Once you’re licensed, you’ll need to purchase a transceiver—a basic model is often sufficient for beginners—and practice using it so that you’re comfortable with the equipment before an emergency arises.

Grocery Items for the Week

Ready for your shopping list? This week, we’re adding to our stockpile with some simple but vital items that will sustain you in an emergency. Be sure to add the following to your shopping list, with each item purchased per person in your household:

• 1 gallon of water
• 1 can of ready-to-eat soup (not concentrate)
• 1 can of fruit
• 1 can of vegetables

Water is, of course, a non-negotiable in any preparedness plan. Ensuring you have at least one gallon per person per day is essential for staying hydrated and maintaining basic hygiene in a crisis. The canned goods you add this week—soup, fruit, and vegetables—are easy to store and can be eaten as-is, making them ideal for situations where cooking might not be an option.

If you have infants or small children, also consider picking up extra plastic baby bottles, formula, and diapers. In an emergency, these items can be life-saving, ensuring that your little ones are taken care of even if supplies are scarce.

Action Steps for the Week

1. Research how to become a licensed ham radio operator.
   • Look for local ham radio clubs or online resources to help you understand the licensing process.
   • Consider purchasing a study guide or enrolling in a class to prepare for the Technician license exam.
2. Understand the importance of ham radio in a survival situation.
   • Learn about how ham radios work and why they are a reliable communication tool during emergencies.
   • Familiarize yourself with the types of equipment you’ll need and where to purchase them.
3. Start building your emergency communication plan.
   • Once you’re licensed, practice using your ham radio to ensure you’re comfortable with its operation.
   • Consider how you would use a ham radio to communicate with family members, friends, or emergency responders during a crisis.

By focusing on these steps, you’ll not only be adding to your food and water supplies but also taking a significant step toward ensuring that you can stay connected during an emergency. Communication is key in any survival scenario, and with a ham radio, you’ll have a reliable way to reach out when it matters most.