What Is A Prepper

What is a Prepper? by JB in Virginia

2010-01-19T23:43:00.000-05:00

A prepper is someone who is uncomfortable relying on others for the basics of survival and protection.

A prepper is someone who has tired of racing thoughts in the middle of the night, after realizing how fragile our society is, and has decided to provide his/her family with some extra insurance against any possibility.

A prepper appreciates and passes on the hard work and ingenuity of our ancestors and the magnificent technology of today's world, knowing that every one of those things will help our children survive long after we're gone. A prepper's work is never done because there are always children to be taught.

JB in Virginia

What is a Prepper? by PrepperMom

2010-01-14T07:56:00.001-05:00

Another great definition submitted by PrepperMom

What it is to be a Prepper as Defined from the personal viewpoint of PrepperMom

To prepare , Protect , and Provide for my family at all costs.
I must be prepared to protect my family , weather it from the nature or man.

* I must be aware of my environment
* Be aware of the risks of my environment
* Be prepared to battle the risks of any environment

I must educate myself , and my family members on how to be self sufficient if the need arise.
I must be strong enough to defend myself and my children if my husband is not around.
I must be knowledgeable , my children's lives may depend on MY quick thinking.
I must be willing to do what might make me uncomfortable to aide the greater good.

Being a Prepared to deal with any situation that may arise is an act of love for my family.

What is a prepper? by Nathan Blakesley

2010-01-06T15:30:00.003-05:00

Everyone needs to read this one very carefully
Nathan thank you for your great submission

Here is my submission of the definition of a Prepper. Forgive its longwindedness, but I feel defining a Prepper is more than simply throwing a label on the term.

In attempting to provide a good definition of the term "prepper", one must look at the word from which it comes, preparer. A quick look at that definition, "One who, or that which, prepares, fits, or makes ready"(en.wiktionary.org/wiki/preparer), gives us a slightly better understanding, but I don't think that's a complete definition.

That is what a prepper does, prepares and makes ready, but to me that definition is just lacking. So let's take a look at the base word, prepare. Here we find a plethora of definitions that I feel all give a good picture into what a prepper is:-fix: make ready or suitable or equip in advance for a particular purpose or for some use, event, etc -organize: arrange by systematic planning and united effort -educate for a future role or function -train: undergo training or instruction in preparation for a particular role, function, or profession (wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn)-

To make ready for a specific future purpose (en.wiktionary.org/wiki/prepare)

And then the derivations of prepare: -preparation - the activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose -preparation - planning: the cognitive process of thinking about what you will do in the event of something happening -preparation - readiness: the state of having been made ready or prepared for use or action -prepared - made ready or fit or suitable beforehand (wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn)

The combining of all these definitions I feel truly encompasses the essence of the prepper. Someone who cognitively, rationally applies common sense and forward thinking to assess potential problematic events and sets forth provisions (whether plans, material, or finances) to mitigate the impact of those events on themselves and those they hold dear.

They're not doomsdayer's, because if the world is going to end, there's no point in preparing, common sense.

They're not isolationists. They don't walk away from society or shun technology. To the contrary many embrace technology.

The majority of preppers are what folks would deem "normal" average people. They just plan ahead.

This is not a new phenomenon. Its a tradition that we've actually gone away from in the last few generations.

Our grandparents canned and stored food and clothes and things they would need in the years to come. Even some of our parents did this as well. But in the age of convenience, why bother? Preppers are those that follow in the wise footsteps of our forefathers and set aside during times of plenty so that they do not want during times of little.

They are many times also true environmentalists. They understand that our life is dependent on our planet. In preparing for times when power will not come from the grid, they implement alternative energy, lessening their impact on the environment. Global warming or not, preppers often become the true stewards of nature. In learning to grow their own food, they learn balance and harmony with the land. What we put in is what we'll take out.

In search of renewable fuels they make homemade biodiesel refineries, and one at a time reduce our dependence on oil as a fuel. Solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro energy, these are all things a prepper considers in their plans.

In short preppers are those that hope for the best, plan for the worst, but make the most of each day as it comes.

Sincerely,

Nathan Blakesley

What is a prepper? by Jeanie

2009-12-31T02:21:00.000-05:00

An individual who is acutely aware of subtle changes to present day conditions, and who takes measures to adapt to same.

That's my definition!

Thanks for the website,
Jeanie

What is a prepper ? by Kevin Vaughan

2009-12-30T18:58:00.000-05:00

A Prepper is someone who plans for the future in such a way that unforeseen circumstances have minimum impact on their lives.

Kevin Vaughan

What it is a prepper? by Gene at K9 Resources

2009-12-30T18:55:00.000-05:00

Prepper:

“One seeing reality, expecting the worst, praying for the best and preparing for the difference.”

Kindest Personal Regards,

Gene

A new definition just in time for the holiday season

2009-12-23T18:20:00.000-05:00

To me a Prepper is a person who considers what can happen: while at home, on the way to work, vacation (air, land or sea), from nature, from bad luck and clumsiness, spiritual, to human caused. Kind of like an adult Boy Scout – Always prepared for anything, anywhere. A Prepper will have a contingency plan to account for the best way to not only avoid such a situation in the first place (whenever possible), but also how to live through such an event and continue to prosper and be happy and content with life.

There are various levels of Preppers. At the highest level you reach a group that has their own name - Extremists and that group has levels too.

The most common perception of this high level group being, the extremist who lives in the boonies and off the land in a very “times of yore” way. Yet you also have wilderness guides who know all kinds of skills in case the worst happens. Another type of extremist. Military personnel are taught how to make it through being separated from the rest of their team or troupe. How to get out alive from the worst that can happen in a war situation. Again, another type of extremist.

If you really stop and think about it, most people are Preppers, at least in some small way. How so? Most of us have insurance for our health, home, vehicles and major “toys” and possessions. Insurance is in case the worst happens is it not? Ha – a Prepper. Many country and northern folk have alternative energy and food stores because winter storms often take out electricity, phone service and the ability to travel safely for days and even weeks. Again – Preppers. If you have a first aid kit in your home, boat, auto or RV you are preparing for the chance you might need it. A Prepper. If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes, avalanches, mud slides or floods you no doubt have some kind of plan to get you through each occurrence. Another type of Prepper.

I have long been a hiker and backpacker. I love the outdoors and nature. I love the idea of being self-reliant and have been researching, learning and planning for moving to a rural area with a small, as self-reliant as possible homestead. I want to be independent from as many utilities and outside entities as possible; for my food, energy, health, water, sanitation and all the rest of my basics needs. A homesteader, a small farmer/rancher, a country/rural person – A Prepper.

Even governments worldwide have various programs and agencies to address “disasters” and “emergencies”. Take a look at the FEMA and Homeland Security “Be Prepared” and “Are You Ready” websites. The Church of Latter Day Saints has long been “prepping” for disasters and emergencies that they feel precede the Second Coming of Christ.

Bottom line is that in some small way we are all Preppers consisting of all ages, all nationalities, all faiths, and all races, rich and poor, in urban, suburban and rural areas. We are the adult Boy Scouts – Always Prepared for whatever twists and turns life throws at us from any source.

I also know that in all my years of prepping and planning for homesteading (since the 1970’s); I have never before seen such a proliferation of information and groups on the subject like I have in the last 5-8 years. Something must be up to make people worldwide feel this need.

One thing is for sure – In a disaster or wide spread emergency - You CANNOT count on any government or emergency agency to come to your rescue in a timely fashion. The only things you can count on are yourself (physical, emotional & spiritual), your knowledge and skills and the supplies and tools you have on hand.

Criss

"When the people fear their government, there is TYRANNY. When the government fears the people, there is LIBERTY. (Thomas Jefferson)

Prepper definition by mmpaints

2009-11-22T02:46:00.004-05:00

Another definition of PREPPER sent in by mmpaints

What is a prepper and what defines a prepper? for me, a prepper is someone that is ready to handle anything that might happen to them. Both physically and mentally prepared with the mindset and skills needed to prevail in any situation.

Natural disaster clusters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes,blizzards and severe thunderstorms are all examples of what a person might be prepped for. Another side of it would be some sort of accident like chemical spills, release of radioactive materials, nuclear or conventional war, or an oppressive government. All good examples of what every person across the world should be prepared to withstand. Any of these things could easily bring a halt to electrical service and the availability of fuel, food, water and other tangible goods.

A comment that was left and needs to be on the front page

2009-10-25T05:21:00.001-04:00

Another take on the definition of Prepper

Hi, sorted through things and found you via NVBarbarella over at twitter. Intriguingly enough, I am currently following a guy with a Buggin (Bugging In) blog.

I used to live in Northern California where the 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake was just celebrated.

The thing is, I LOVE the term "self-reliance" being in the definition. I'm just not yet in-love with the rest of the definitions.

"Never ending" sounds like hording forever (in my ears)

And individual sounds so lonely
when in reality so many who are self-reliant and who PREPARE
do so with their family members' needs in mind as well as their own

OK, that's my two bits.

This blog website is VERY cool and marvelously helpful.

Posted by April Braswell to What Is A Prepper at October 25, 2009 4:29 AM

Just in.... hot off the wire.... from the Aloha State

2009-08-27T02:09:00.003-04:00

Thank you very much for the definition. A very good one at that.
Thanks

What is a Prepper?

An individual encompassing self-reliant ways of living and preparing in a never ending process of resources, expanding within all areas of survival.

Or

An individual whom encompasses self-reliance by an educated path of preparation through many branches and divisions towards survival.

Hawaii Preppers Network
Aloha2U

This is what Matthew Rohde has to say

2009-08-25T04:08:00.002-04:00

Here is my definition of a prepper.

A prepper(s) is an individual or group of individuals that take action in order to manage and reduce risk to an acceptable level to meet objectives or requirements of survival. Action taken may be a goal in and of itself or a step taken to meet another goal. Examples are but are not limited to: being charitable, exercising liberty, seeking and finding shelter, obtaining education, acquiring an available food source, being industrious, moving from a state of danger to one of safety, disciplining ones self, and in general holding steadfast against chaos in the world.

Matthew Rohde
spacemecha.wordpress.com

From North Texas Prepper

2009-08-22T02:06:00.003-04:00

Another definition sent in today. We are so glad to see more people getting involved with this as it seems to mean a little something different to everyone. Thank you very much North Texas Prepper....

A Prepper is any person who gathers the knowledge and materials necessary to mitigate any natural or man made disaster that may come their way.

North Texas Prepper

From Gary at WVPN

2009-08-19T18:00:00.004-04:00

Whats A Prepper sent in by nitewalker of the West Virginia Preppers Network. Thank you so much for this work and your willingness to share with others on this topic.

What Is A Prepper?
An interesting and thought provoking question is it not?
I believe there are many facets to this word Prepper or any
of it's roots such as preparedness. It is truly possible for it to
mean slightly different things to different people. Does having a
food storage program make you a Prepper? Most assuredly it
does. Does stocking up on things you think may be in short
supply or go up in price at a later date make you a Prepper?
Again the answer is yes. Does buying anything in volume when
you find it on sale or at a bargain price make you a Prepper?
Again I say it does. Does trying to get some cash laid back
to cover expenses in an emergency make you a Prepper. Most
definitely it does. Anyone who buys extra of anything because
they will need it sometime in the future is a basic Prepper.

This is why I think this word has many facets, because if
you do one of the above, or if you do all of the above and maybe
even more, you are a Prepper. I have given this question of what
is a Prepper a great deal of thought the last few weeks since I was
approached with the idea. Trying to stay within the guidelines
given for this essay I'll do my best to give you what I think is
the definition of a Prepper.

I think a Prepper is a person who has decided it is in their
best interest to take or take back control of anything and some
times everything in their power, to manage the things that have
the potential to most affect them and their families in a negative
or harmful way. In the process of doing this they also ease the
effects on them and their families of things that they can not
control, such as the effects of the very weak global economy
of today. So in closing let me say, if you are taking steps to
become less reliant on other people and the decisions they make
and trying to do everything you possibly can to take personal responsibility
for yourself and your family. You Are A Prepper. Gary

Gary
West Virginia Preppers Network
Mountaineers Are Always Free

From Worn Out

2009-08-11T14:33:00.002-04:00

This definition of What Is A Prepper sent by email from Worn Out
Thanks for helping Worn Out

What is a Prepper?

For me that is being prepared for whatever comes your way enough so, that you need not rely on others for assistance.

WornOut

Just In From Scarecrow

2009-08-10T15:57:00.003-04:00

A definition submitted by email.
Please continue to help define What A Prepper Is to you
Thanks Scarecrow

Prepping: To make ready in advance.

A Prepper: A person who embraces the unpredictability of the future and lives each day with a watchful eye to that future.

Rgds.
Scarecrow

What Is A Prepper from Randy Faulk

2009-08-08T16:54:00.006-04:00

Definition
by Randy Faulk (Author)

Pre....Before------Pare....To diminish gradually

Therefore, to prepare means to diminish the effects of a disaster gradually before a disaster happens

PREPPER

is a Proper - Rational - Example of - -Propper - Preperation using - Every - available - Resource!

What is a Prepper by American Prepper

2009-08-05T05:48:00.001-04:00

1. a person who grows and /or stores food, water, and other supplies in preparation for disasters of all types, i.e., economic collapse, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes etc..

2. a person who seeks to maintain stability in their lives by focusing on Self-Reliance, Long Term Sustainability and Preparedness.

3. a person who teaches self-reliance, long term sustainability and preparedness and knows that the more people who learn these things the more safe and free our world will be.

A Definition by Randy Faulk

2009-08-04T02:38:00.003-04:00

By Randy Faulk (Author)

A "PREPPER" IS ANYONE WHO USES A:

(P)ositive

(R)ational

(E)xample of

(P)roper

(P)reparation using

(E)very available

(R)esource

This Definition is by James Talmage Stevens

2009-08-04T02:36:00.003-04:00

By James Stevens (Author)

here's my first shot at your question:

The alliteration works for me!

A *_Prepper_* is one who, recognizing his personal and family responsibility(ies), *Plans Positively, Prepares Properly, Performs Peaceably.
*

What Is A Prepper

2009-08-03T10:40:00.003-04:00

For those that do not want to accept an invite to post for themselves here please use the comment section below any post for your answer Thanks