This prepping glossary brings together essential terms used throughout the preparedness community. Each definition is designed to help readers navigate information more easily and strengthen their understanding of key concepts.
A-Frame Shelter
An A-frame shelter is a simple structure made by leaning materials against a central ridgepole to form a triangular shape. It provides good protection from wind and rain. It’s commonly used in wilderness survival due to its stability and simplicity.
Alternate Bug Out Location (BOL)
An alternate bug out location is a pre-planned destination where you can relocate during an emergency. It should be safe, accessible, and stocked with essential supplies. Having multiple BOL options increases flexibility and resilience.
Ammo Storage
Ammo storage refers to safely storing ammunition to maintain reliability and prevent degradation. It involves controlling moisture, temperature, and using proper containers. Good storage ensures ammunition remains usable long-term.
Aquaponics
Aquaponics is a system that combines fish farming with plant cultivation in a symbiotic environment. Fish waste provides nutrients for plants, while plants help filter the water. It’s an efficient method for producing food in limited space.
Backup Power (Generators/Solar)
Backup power refers to alternative energy sources used when the main power grid fails. This can include fuel-powered generators, solar panel systems, or battery storage solutions. Having backup power ensures you can run essential devices like lights, refrigeration, and communication equipment.
Ballistic Protection
Ballistic protection refers to materials or equipment designed to stop or reduce the impact of projectiles. This can include body armor or reinforced barriers. It is used to increase personal and property safety in high-risk situations.
Bartering
Bartering is the exchange of goods or services without using money, often becoming essential during economic collapse or supply shortages. Preppers commonly stock items with high trade value such as food, medical supplies, and tools. Strong bartering skills can help you acquire what you lack without relying on traditional systems.
Bug In
Bugging in means staying in your home or current location during an emergency instead of evacuating. This strategy relies on preparation, including stored supplies, security, and self-sufficiency. It is often safer when travel is dangerous or unnecessary.
Bug Out
Bugging out refers to leaving your home quickly due to imminent danger such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or system collapse. It requires a pre-planned destination and a clear evacuation route. Timing and decision-making are critical for a successful bug-out.
Bug Out Bag (BOB)
A bug out bag is a pre-packed kit designed to sustain you for at least 72 hours during an emergency evacuation. It typically includes food, water, tools, clothing, and essential documents. The goal is mobility and self-sufficiency while traveling to safety.
Bushcraft
Bushcraft involves the skills needed to survive and thrive in the wild using natural resources. This includes fire-making, shelter building, foraging, and tool crafting. It emphasizes self-reliance and knowledge over reliance on modern gear.
Cache (Supply Cache)
A cache is a hidden storage of supplies placed in strategic locations for future use. It can include food, water, tools, or equipment. Caches are useful for resupply during travel or as backups if primary supplies are lost.
Caloric Planning
Caloric planning involves calculating and managing the energy needs required for survival. It ensures you have enough food to sustain physical activity and health over time. Proper planning prevents shortages and fatigue.
Canning (Pressure/Water Bath)
Canning is a method of preserving food by sealing it in airtight containers and applying heat. Pressure canning is used for low-acid foods, while water bath canning is suitable for high-acid foods. It allows long-term storage without refrigeration.
Chicken Tractor
A chicken tractor is a movable enclosure that allows chickens to forage while being protected. It helps fertilize soil naturally and control pests. This system supports sustainable and low-cost food production.
Communication Plan
A communication plan outlines how you and your group will stay in contact during emergencies. It includes designated meeting points, backup contacts, and communication methods such as radios or messaging apps. Clear planning reduces confusion and improves coordination under stress.
Composting
Composting is the process of breaking down organic waste into nutrient-rich soil. It improves garden productivity and reduces reliance on external fertilizers. Proper composting supports long-term sustainability.
Concealment vs Cover
Concealment hides you from view, while cover provides physical protection from threats. Understanding the difference is important in dangerous situations. Both are essential concepts in movement and security.
Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is the practice of changing what you grow in a specific area each season. It helps prevent soil depletion and reduces pests and diseases. This technique improves long-term soil health and yields.
Debris Shelter
A debris shelter is built using natural materials like leaves, branches, and grass for insulation. It traps body heat effectively and is ideal in cold environments. Proper construction is key to maintaining warmth.
Defensive Positioning
Defensive positioning refers to setting up your location or stance to maximize protection and awareness. This includes using terrain, barriers, and visibility to your advantage. It helps reduce vulnerability to threats.
Defensive Tools
Defensive tools are items used to protect yourself, your family, and your property. These can include non-lethal options or legally owned weapons depending on local laws. Proper training and safe handling are essential.
Dry Run (Practice Scenario)
A dry run is a practice exercise where you simulate an emergency plan without real danger. It helps identify weaknesses and improve preparedness. Regular testing increases confidence and efficiency.
Earth Shelter
An earth shelter is a structure built partially or fully underground using soil for insulation and protection. It maintains stable temperatures and offers strong resistance to weather. These shelters are often used for long-term survival.
EDC (Everyday Carry)
Everyday carry refers to the essential items you keep on you at all times for daily preparedness. Common EDC items include a flashlight, knife, multitool, phone, and basic first aid supplies. The goal is to be ready for small, unexpected situations without needing larger gear.
Emergency Rations
Emergency rations are compact, high-calorie food supplies designed for survival situations. They are typically long-lasting and require little to no preparation. These are often included in bug out bags and emergency kits.
Emergency Signals
Emergency signals are methods used to attract attention or communicate distress when conventional communication fails. These can include visual signals like fires and mirrors, or audible ones like whistles. Knowing signaling techniques increases your chances of rescue.
Escape and Evasion (E&E)
Escape and evasion refers to the skills used to avoid detection and safely move away from threats. This may involve stealth, route planning, and blending into surroundings. It is especially relevant in hostile or high-risk environments.
Faraday Cage
A Faraday cage is an enclosure used to protect electronic devices from electromagnetic pulses (EMP). It blocks external electrical fields from damaging sensitive equipment. Preppers use them to safeguard communication devices.
Firecraft
Firecraft is the skill of building, maintaining, and controlling fire in various conditions. It includes understanding different ignition methods, fuel types, and fire structures. Fire is essential for warmth, cooking, water purification, and signaling.
Fire Pit
A fire pit is a designated and controlled area used for building and maintaining fire safely. It can be used for cooking, warmth, and social gathering. Proper setup reduces fire risk and improves efficiency.
First Aid Kit (FAK)
A first aid kit is a collection of basic medical supplies used to treat minor injuries and stabilize more serious ones. It typically includes bandages, antiseptics, gloves, and medications. Every prepper should maintain and regularly update their kit.
Food Independence
Food independence is the ability to produce or source your own food without relying on external systems. This can include gardening, raising animals, and preserving food. It increases resilience during supply disruptions.
Food Preservation
Food preservation involves methods used to extend the shelf life of food and prevent spoilage. Common techniques include drying, canning, freezing, and fermenting. It allows you to store food long-term and reduce dependence on fresh supplies.
Food Security
Food security refers to having reliable access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. In prepping, it means planning for both short-term and long-term needs. Strong food security reduces vulnerability during crises.
Force Multiplier
A force multiplier is any tool, skill, or strategy that increases your effectiveness or capability. This could include training, equipment, or teamwork that gives you an advantage in survival situations. It helps you do more with fewer resources.
Fuel Storage
Fuel storage refers to safely storing fuels like gasoline, propane, or diesel for future use. Proper containers, rotation, and storage conditions are critical to prevent degradation and hazards. Fuel is essential for power, heating, and transportation.
Get Home Bag (GHB)
A get home bag is a portable kit designed to help you return home safely during an emergency. It typically contains essentials like water, snacks, navigation tools, and basic gear. Unlike a bug out bag, it focuses on short-term mobility.
Grey Man Theory
Grey man theory is the practice of blending into your surroundings to avoid drawing attention. This includes clothing, behavior, and gear choices. Staying unnoticed can reduce risk in unstable situations.
Greenhouse Growing
Greenhouse growing involves cultivating plants in a controlled environment to extend the growing season. It protects crops from weather and pests. This method allows more consistent food production year-round.
Greenhouse Ventilation
Greenhouse ventilation is the process of controlling airflow to regulate temperature and humidity. Proper ventilation prevents overheating, mold, and plant stress. It is essential for maintaining a productive growing environment.
Greywater System
A greywater system reuses water from sinks, showers, or laundry for irrigation or other non-potable uses. It reduces water waste and supports sustainability. Proper filtration and management are required for safe use.
Grid Down
Grid down describes a situation where electrical power and critical infrastructure systems are no longer functioning. This can result from natural disasters, cyberattacks, or system failures. A grid-down scenario significantly impacts daily life and access to resources.
Hard Skills vs Soft Skills
Hard skills are practical abilities like fire-making or first aid, while soft skills include decision-making and communication. Both are essential for survival. Balancing them improves overall preparedness.
Heirloom Seeds
Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated seeds that can be saved and replanted each season. They preserve plant genetics and allow long-term sustainability. Unlike hybrids, they produce consistent results across generations.
Home Hardening
Home hardening involves strengthening your home to make it more resistant to threats such as break-ins or disasters. This can include reinforcing doors, securing windows, and improving perimeter security. The goal is to increase safety and delay or deter intrusions.
Homesteading
Homesteading is a lifestyle focused on self-sufficiency through growing food, raising animals, and producing essential resources at home. It combines skills like gardening, food preservation, and basic construction to reduce reliance on external systems.
Improvised Tools
Improvised tools are items created or adapted from available materials for survival use. This can include makeshift weapons, containers, or repair tools. Resourcefulness is key when standard gear is unavailable.
INCH Bag (I’m Never Coming Home)
An INCH bag is a comprehensive survival kit designed for long-term or permanent evacuation. It contains more extensive supplies than a bug out bag, focusing on self-reliance over an extended period. Due to its size and weight, mobility is more limited.
IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit)
An individual first aid kit is a compact medical kit focused on treating severe, life-threatening injuries. It typically includes items like a tourniquet, pressure bandage, and trauma shears. IFAKs are often carried on your person for immediate access.
Insulated Shelter
An insulated shelter is designed to retain heat and protect against extreme temperatures. It uses materials that reduce heat loss and improve comfort. Insulation is critical in cold-weather survival.
Lean-To Shelter
A lean-to shelter is a basic structure made by leaning branches or materials against a support. It is quick to build and provides protection from wind and precipitation. Orientation is important for maximum effectiveness.
Livestock Management
Livestock management involves raising and caring for animals for food and resources. This includes feeding, breeding, and health care. Proper management ensures reliable production of meat, eggs, or dairy.
Loadout
A loadout refers to the specific gear and equipment you carry for a particular situation. It varies depending on environment, mission, and duration. Optimizing your loadout improves efficiency and mobility.
Long-Term Food Storage
Long-term food storage involves keeping food supplies that can last months or years without spoiling. This typically includes freeze-dried foods, dehydrated goods, and properly stored staples like rice and beans. The focus is on shelf life, nutrition, and storage conditions.
Map and Compass
Map and compass navigation is a reliable method of finding your way without relying on electronic devices. It requires understanding topographic maps, bearings, and terrain features. These skills are critical when GPS systems are unavailable or unreliable.
Medical Preparedness
Medical preparedness is the process of planning and equipping yourself to handle health-related emergencies. This includes training, supplies, medications, and knowledge of basic and advanced care. It ensures you can respond effectively when professional help is delayed or unavailable.
Microclimate Awareness
Microclimate awareness is understanding small-scale environmental conditions in your immediate area. These can affect temperature, wind, and shelter placement. Using microclimates effectively can improve comfort and survival.
Mulching
Mulching is the practice of covering soil with organic or inorganic materials. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature. This improves plant health and reduces maintenance.
Mutual Assistance Group (MAG)
A mutual assistance group is a network of individuals who agree to support each other during emergencies. Members often share resources, skills, and responsibilities. A strong MAG increases resilience and security through cooperation.
Navigation (Land Navigation)
Land navigation refers to the ability to determine your position and travel from one point to another using terrain, maps, and tools. It includes both traditional methods and modern techniques. Strong navigation skills reduce the risk of getting lost in unfamiliar environments.
Non-Lethal Defense
Non-lethal defense refers to methods of protection that do not cause permanent harm. This can include tools like pepper spray or physical deterrents. It offers a safer option for personal and property defense.
Off-Grid Living
Off-grid living means operating independently from public utilities like electricity, water, and sewage systems. It relies on self-sustaining systems such as solar power, water collection, and waste management. This approach increases independence and resilience during disruptions.
OPSEC (Operational Security)
Operational security is the practice of protecting sensitive information from being exposed to others. In prepping, it involves keeping your supplies, plans, and capabilities discreet. Good OPSEC reduces the risk of becoming a target during crises.
Overwatch
Overwatch is a security practice where one person observes an area while others move or work. It provides early warning of potential threats. This is commonly used in group survival scenarios.
Perimeter Alarm
A perimeter alarm is a system designed to alert you when someone enters your secured area. It can be electronic or improvised using simple materials. Early detection increases response time and safety.
Permaculture
Permaculture is a design approach focused on creating sustainable and self-sufficient ecosystems. It integrates plants, animals, and natural processes. The goal is long-term productivity with minimal external input.
Power Grid Failure
Power grid failure occurs when the electrical system supplying power to homes and infrastructure breaks down. This can be temporary or prolonged depending on the cause. It disrupts essential services like communication, water supply, and transportation.
Prepper Pantry
A prepper pantry is a well-organized food storage system designed for long-term use and emergency situations. It typically includes shelf-stable foods, rotated regularly to maintain freshness. A good pantry supports both daily use and crisis preparedness.
Prepping
Prepping is the practice of preparing for emergencies, disruptions, or long-term survival scenarios. It involves planning, acquiring supplies, and developing skills to become more self-reliant. Prepping can range from basic readiness to full self-sufficiency.
Prepping Layers
Prepping layers refer to organizing your preparedness into levels based on different scenarios. These can include everyday readiness, short-term emergencies, and long-term survival situations. Layering helps prioritize resources and avoid gaps in preparation.
Primitive Skills
Primitive skills are survival techniques that rely on natural materials and minimal tools. This includes making fire without modern equipment, building shelters, and sourcing food from the environment. These skills are valuable when modern gear is unavailable.
Radio Communication (HAM/FRS/GMRS)
Radio communication involves using two-way radios to stay in contact when traditional networks fail. Different systems like HAM, FRS, and GMRS offer varying ranges and capabilities. Radios are a reliable backup for coordination during emergencies.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rain for future use. Systems can range from simple barrels to more advanced filtration setups. It provides an alternative water source during shortages or disruptions.
Raised Bed Gardening
Raised bed gardening involves growing plants in elevated soil beds. It improves drainage, soil quality, and accessibility. This method is ideal for controlled and efficient food production.
Redundancy (Rule of Three)
Redundancy means having multiple ways to meet the same need in case one fails. The “rule of three” suggests having at least three options for critical resources like water, fire, and shelter. This reduces risk and increases reliability in uncertain situations.
Resource Management
Resource management involves tracking and controlling the use of supplies like food, water, and fuel. It ensures sustainability over time. Poor management can lead to shortages even with adequate stock.
Risk Mitigation
Risk mitigation is the process of identifying potential threats and taking steps to reduce their impact. This includes planning, preparation, and preventative measures. Effective mitigation helps minimize damage and improves survival chances.
Root Cellar
A root cellar is an underground storage space used to preserve food naturally. It relies on cool, stable temperatures and humidity to extend shelf life. This method is ideal for storing vegetables and preserved goods.
Route Planning
Route planning is the process of selecting safe and efficient paths for travel during emergencies. It includes identifying primary and alternate routes. Good planning helps avoid hazards and delays.
Security Perimeter
A security perimeter is the defined area around your home or location that you monitor and protect. It can include physical barriers, lighting, and observation points. Establishing a perimeter helps detect and deter potential threats early.
Seed Saving
Seed saving is the practice of collecting and storing seeds from your crops for future planting. It reduces dependency on external suppliers. This is a key skill for long-term food sustainability.
Shelter in Place
Sheltering in place means staying indoors in a secure location during an emergency rather than evacuating. This approach is often used during chemical events, severe weather, or civil unrest. It requires having sufficient supplies and a safe indoor environment.
Shelter Site Selection
Shelter site selection involves choosing a safe and effective location to build or set up shelter. Factors include terrain, weather exposure, water access, and hazards. A good site improves safety and efficiency.
SHTF (Shit Hits The Fan)
SHTF is a term used to describe a major disruptive event that causes widespread breakdown of normal systems. This can include natural disasters, economic collapse, or conflict. It represents the type of scenario many preparedness plans are built around.
Signal Plan
A signal plan defines how communication signals will be used within a group. This can include radio channels, codes, or visual signals. It ensures clear and consistent communication.
Situational Awareness
Situational awareness is the ability to observe, understand, and anticipate what is happening around you. It involves staying alert to changes in your environment and recognizing potential threats. Strong awareness helps you make better decisions under pressure.
Skill Stacking
Skill stacking is the process of combining multiple abilities to increase overall effectiveness. For example, combining navigation with medical knowledge improves versatility. It makes you more adaptable in complex situations.
Soil Amendment
Soil amendment refers to adding materials like compost, manure, or minerals to improve soil quality. It enhances nutrient content and structure. Healthy soil is essential for productive gardening.
Solar Still
A solar still is a device used to collect and purify water through evaporation and condensation. It can extract moisture from soil, plants, or contaminated water. It is useful when other water sources are unavailable.
Stockpiling
Stockpiling is the practice of accumulating essential supplies for future use. This includes food, water, medical items, and other necessities. Proper stockpiling involves rotation, storage management, and planning for different scenarios.
Survival Mindset
A survival mindset is the mental attitude focused on staying calm, adaptable, and determined during emergencies. It includes problem-solving, resilience, and the will to survive. Mindset often plays a critical role in overcoming difficult situations.
Survival Shelter
A survival shelter is a temporary structure built or used to protect yourself from the elements. It can be improvised from natural materials or created using tools like tarps and tents. Proper shelter is critical for maintaining body temperature and safety.
Survival Rule of Threes
The survival rule of threes states that a person can survive roughly 3 minutes without air, 3 hours without shelter, 3 days without water, and 3 weeks without food. It helps prioritize survival actions. Understanding this rule guides decision-making in emergencies.
Tactical Gear
Tactical gear refers to equipment designed for durability, functionality, and efficiency in high-stress situations. This can include backpacks, clothing, load-bearing systems, and protective equipment. It is often used to improve mobility and readiness.
Tactical Retreat
A tactical retreat is a controlled withdrawal from a dangerous situation to preserve safety. It is not panic-driven but planned and deliberate. Knowing when to disengage is a key survival skill.
Tarp Shelter
A tarp shelter is a versatile structure made using a tarp and cordage. It can be configured in multiple ways depending on conditions. Tarps are lightweight and commonly used in bug out situations.
TEOTWAWKI
TEOTWAWKI stands for “The End Of The World As We Know It,” describing a complete societal collapse scenario. It goes beyond short-term emergencies and assumes long-term disruption of systems and infrastructure. Prepping for TEOTWAWKI focuses on self-sufficiency and sustainability.
Thermal Mass
Thermal mass refers to materials that absorb and store heat energy. In shelters or greenhouses, it helps regulate temperature by releasing heat slowly. This improves efficiency and comfort.
Threat Assessment
Threat assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating potential dangers in your environment. It involves analyzing likelihood, severity, and possible outcomes. This helps you prioritize actions and prepare effectively.
Trauma Care
Trauma care focuses on treating severe, life-threatening injuries such as heavy bleeding or airway obstruction. It requires specialized equipment and training beyond basic first aid. Quick and effective trauma care can significantly improve survival chances.
Underground Bunker
An underground bunker is a reinforced shelter built below ground for long-term protection. It is designed to withstand extreme threats such as disasters or conflict. Proper ventilation, supplies, and structural integrity are critical.
Urban Survival
Urban survival involves adapting preparedness strategies to city environments. This includes dealing with population density, limited resources, and increased security risks. It requires different approaches compared to wilderness survival.
Water Catchment System
A water catchment system collects and stores rainwater for later use. It typically includes gutters, storage tanks, and filtration. This system supports long-term water independence.
Water Filtration
Water filtration is the process of removing particles, bacteria, and contaminants from water to make it safer to drink. It typically uses physical filters like pumps, gravity systems, or portable devices. Filtration is often the first step in water treatment.
Water Irrigation Systems
Water irrigation systems are methods used to deliver water to crops efficiently. This can include drip systems, sprinklers, or manual watering setups. Proper irrigation ensures consistent plant growth and reduces waste.
Water Purification
Water purification goes beyond filtration by eliminating microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria. Methods include boiling, chemical treatments, and UV light. It ensures water is safe for consumption in high-risk situations.
Water Sterilization
Water sterilization refers to eliminating all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This can be done using heat, chemicals, or UV light. It ensures the highest level of water safety.
Water Storage
Water storage involves keeping a supply of clean water for emergency use. This includes proper containers, treatment, and rotation to maintain safety. Reliable water storage is one of the most critical aspects of preparedness.
Water Treatment
Water treatment is the overall process of making water safe for consumption. It can include filtration, purification, and sterilization methods. Combining techniques increases effectiveness.
Wicking Bed
A wicking bed is a self-watering garden system that draws moisture from a reservoir below the soil. It reduces water usage and maintains consistent hydration for plants. This is useful in dry or resource-limited environments.
Wilderness Survival
Wilderness survival focuses on staying alive in natural environments with limited resources. It includes skills like shelter building, navigation, fire-making, and food sourcing. Success depends on knowledge, adaptability, and resourcefulness.
Windbreak Shelter
A windbreak shelter is designed specifically to block wind and reduce heat loss. It can be natural or constructed using available materials. This type of shelter is useful in harsh weather conditions.