

ZDS Weekly Preparedness Mission
Assignment RR20.09.15
⚠️ Codename: LIGHTS OUT ⚠️
📄Debrief
Many of the components of our power grid are aging and non-hardened which makes them extremely vulnerable. Things like natural causes/bad weather, animals coming in contact with power lines (very common), wear-and tear, vehicle/construction accidents, cyber-attack, EMP/solar weather, and short circuits/overloads can all cause cascading failures. Electrical power has become an indispensable part of life, even temporary loss can result in relative chaos.
🔺Action Items
Build a "Blackout Box" to help you and your family properly manage a power outage. The primary mission is to build this kit for short-term power outages no more than 24 hours. However, there is also a need for secondary long-term grid-down planning.
Blackout Box Contents:
✅ Candles, candlestick holders, lighter/matches, fire extinguisher
✅ Flashlights/lanterns/chemlights
✅ Portable power/battery packs/misc batteries
✅ Folding solar panel
✅ Emergency crank radio
✅ Entertainment - board games, playing cards, coloring books, etc...
✅ Manual can opener
✅ Diagram of your home's fuse panel
✅ Sterno-cans/alcohol stove/ for cooking
✅ Seasonal items: handwarmer packs, battery powered fan w mist, mylar blankets, propane heater, etc.
Grid Down Preparations:
✔️ Generator, fuel storage, & extension cords
✔️ Permanent solar system
✔️ Wood stove
✔️ Manual water pump
✔️ Root cellar/Zeer Pot refrigerator
✔️ Wood gassifier
✔️ Hand tools