As the world experiences abnormal and excessive heatwaves resulting in power outages, this brings to the fore the vulnerability of our planet and its inhabitants. The world is beset by natural and man-made disasters of all sorts (earthquakes, pandemics and wars, to mention just a few).

This feature explores how the individual citizen can develop a pro-active prepper mindset with regard to matters such as water, food, resource managment, health, hygiene, first aid and the development of other critical survival skills.

Malta, during the British rule and thereafter established comprehensive disaster contingency plans. During the Cold War, nuclear bunkers were dug into the side of the Rihana valley in Mosta by British forces. These were intended as an alternative command post with a filtration system to keep radiation out; these are now in a dilapidated state.

Additionally, eight flour mills across Malta, including Tal-Palma mill in Mġarr and mills in Buskett and Mosta, were built in the 1950s to resist radioactive material and serve as shelters in case of a nuclear attack.

Currently Malta has established various disaster contingency plans and emergency protocols, primarily coordinated by the Civil Protection Department (CPD) and the Civil Protection Council, which facilitate cooperation with the Police Corps, Armed Forces, and other entities. These organisations have plans to combat maritime hazards, tsunami prepardness, energy securty and flood risk.

In a world of uncertainty, individuals must also take responsibility for their own safety and well-being rather than relying solely on external systems or assistance. The following are examples of a pro-active mindset:

• Instead of worrying about say, power outages, a proactive prepper invests in alternative energy sources like solar panels or generators.
• Instead of dreading food shortages, they maintain a well-stocked pantry with long-lasting staples and preserved foods.

It is by thinking ahead, that you are not just preparing for a crisis - you are taking control of your future.

It is noted that prepping is not a one-time task but a continuous journey. This means regularly updating your plans and embracing ongoing learning to keep you prepared for whatever lies ahead. It is also a lifestyle not based on luck but preparation for the unknown.

A lifelong learning process

Knowledge is one of the most versatile tools in your kit. Staying up to date with the latest information can help in your resilience and adaptability.

There are many courses available that can help individuals develop new skills. These are some of the most practical and valuable options - check if there are courses organised by emergency agencies such as:

• The Civil Protection Department is responsible for organising training courses and exercises for the civil population, simulating various disaster situations. These courses cover fire fighting, basic rescue, and first aid. One can also take advantage of courses, some of which are free, in mental health first aid, which can help individuals prepare psychologically to cope with grief or loss. One can enquire about these courses with the Richmond Foundation.
• The department coordinates capabilities with other ministries, including the Police Force, Armed Forces, and health authorities, to ensure comprehensive civil defense services.
• Additionally, Malta has established a national Tsunami Advisory Board and incorporates hazard awareness training into educational establishments and the tourism industry to improve national cultural preparedness for environmental extremes.
• Life-saving courses - the Royal Life Saving Society Malta holds training courses throughout the year but mostly during the summer months. Most training is carried out in the open sea, mostly at St Julian's Bay. It also provides teaching and assessment at other venues, such as public and hotel swimming pools.
• There are also online communities which provide support in furthering one's knowledge and connect with others such as YouTube tutorials and skill share.
• Community support - build a network of trusted individuals to share resources, skills and information. Stay connected with family, neighbours or trusted friends via two-way radios, walkie-talkies, or CB radios if phone networks fail. It is wise to invest in a battery-powered or hand-crank radio that receives weather alerts and emergency broadcasts.

Building a safer neighbourhood

A secure home starts with a vigilant community. Maltese society is slowly losing its sense of comminity as our native population is increasingly diminishing, while ethnic communities living in Malta have built strong and supportive communities.

Working together strenghtens safety for everyone. In this regard it is important to consider:

Getting to know your neighbours. This means introducing yourself and building trust especially with those living close by. Although the Condominium Act in Malta helps in this regard, the law was primarily designed to regulate shared ownership and prevent administrative conflicts among residents, rather than to prevent crime

Organising a neighbourhood watch is also another important aspect. This would involve group chats, email lists or apps to quickly share updates and suspicious activity.

Installing surveillance cameras, if possible using a set-up shared community cameras at key entry and exit points for added security. Initiatives can also be explored to pool funds for shared security measures, such as community cameras or volunteer patrols at specific times.

Self-defense

In a world where cases of rape, vandalism, and unprovoked attacks are increasing, learning practical self-defence techniques is vital. This is especially so because when trouble arises, law enforcement may not always by available to help you immediately.

Moreover, it is illegal in Malta to carry and use a gun or a pepper spray, so these skills will enable the person to know how to respond to threats, avoid dangerous situations and protecting oneself using de-escalation, escape, and evasion tactics. It is always wise to carry a tactical flashlight which can temporarily blind an attacker, personal alarms which make a loud personal alarm can draw attention to your situation and scare off potential attackers.

Whether one is dealing with an attacker or animal, or simply trying to avoid confrontations, a well-rounded self-defense strategy gives you an edge. It is about being prepared, staying calm and making smart decisions when faced with danger.

Interestingly, in the United States, the month of September has been officially designated as National Preparedness Month. Established by FEMA in 2004, this annual campaign encourages Americans to prepare for emergencies and disasters in their homes, businesses, and communities. Key actions include building an emergency kit, creating a family communication plan, and staying informed about local risks. The observance culminates on 30 September, known as National Preparedness Day.

Prepardness is about building resilience, knowing your risks and understanding your surroundings and proactively preparing for various challenges. This feature is by no means an exhaustive survey on the art of prepping. Moroever, prepping also means regularly updating your plans and embracing ongoing learning that will keep you prepared for whatever lies ahead. Ultimately it is a lifestyle.

The author of this feature has published two books that deal with the subject in question:

Taking Cover - A History of Air-Raid Shelters in Malta (1940-43)

Mobilisation in Action - A history of civil defense in Malta (1940-43)