Economic Collapse Preparation

(Just want to point out that this was written nine months before the chaos of 2008 got the ball rolling and -- make no mistake -- it's still rolling.)

Time is running out! Prepare for the coming hard economic times now!

Today I came upon one of the most useful and entertaining articles I have read in a long, long time. It deals with the uncomfortable but unavoidable subject of economic collapse in a humorous and ultimately uplifting way. The author experienced the collapse of the Soviet Union first-hand, and offers a comparison with the seemingly inevitable total and complete collapse of the U.S. economy. It was written in 2006. You must read it in its entirety.

In the coming economic collapse, both who you know and what you know will be important. You will need to barter for many of your everyday needs.

Therefore:

1) Prepare yourself and your family mentally and emotionally for the eventual material deprivation. Enjoy what you have now.
2) Solidify your social ties and relationships of trust now.
3) Stock up on things like non-perishable food, water (Yes, water treatment could be affected in a severe economic crisis.), and tools. You don't need to build a bunker or anything, but have enough to get your family through a week of chaos.
4) Learn as much as you can about edible plants, soil, how to use hand tools, etc.
5) Plan your escape. If you live in a big city, you'd better be ready to get the hell out of there because things will get ugly when you call 911 and nobody answers.

It really is that simple. Even if total economic meltdown is avoided, chance favors the prepared. Plus, the above three points are valid for a decent life anyway..

Good luck!