Populations are rising and so are the costs of electricity and gas. Most cities are becoming crowded and he stresses and strains among our societies are becoming more and more tangible. Therefore it's understandable that many still choose to live in rural areas, not only to achieve a sense of community and getting to know their neighbours better. But also providing their children with an opportunity to get educated in a class room that provides enough one-on-one time and the ability to learn a few life skills that cannot be taught in an urban environment.

But this is not the only reason for many people now re-thinking their living conditions. With the fear of the recent predicted apocalypse, combined with many predicting the collapse of government. Has resulted in the rise of survivalists and 'preppers', who are getting themselves and their families prepared for the worse. This involves creating their own bunkers in their basement, teaching their families and local communities vital survival skills.

Many are learning how to become completely self-sufficient. Understanding horticulture, basis weapon training and raising live stock. As most people would admit, the sense of community especially here in the UK has almost been lost. Going back several centuries to when we had local communities that involved everyone working together and ensuring everyone’s safety could become more commonplace. Especially since in any event of natural disasters or any other event that could result in mass panic, its important to know that you will have others to help each other get through the difficult event.

If you are considering to become self-sufficient and therefore not having to rely on the grid. Here are a few areas that will help you get started.

The Beginning

The first step to take, will be to simply create a to-do list. Simply moving and making radical changes is not the correct way to become self-reliant. Small simple steps will make it much easier for everyone to adapt. For example, understanding what you can do with the current surroundings and infrastructure. Understanding the limitations is also an important factor.

Food

Food preservation is an often overlooked aspect of being prepared. Being able to grow and harvest suitable fruit and vegetables is only a single part of the process, but can be considered one of the most important. Being able to preserve these and increase their life cycle will increase the options vastly and reduce the pressure of sourcing food each and every day. Which will also include drying, freezing and pickling.

This will therefore involve having adequate storage that is secure. Basements and cellars are often the easiest option for many to modify.

Animal Husbandry

Unfortunately many will only have enough land to cater to growing fruit and vegetables. But for many the ultimate goal is to begin participating in animal husbandry. This can involve raising chicken to pigs, and even bees. The options are almost limitless. Chickens for example do not require large spaces and are fairly simple in terms of maintenance and work required. But remain a great place to begin.

Access To Power

Another key area to becoming completely self-sufficient is to ensure there is a suitable source of power. There are many different kinds of sources that can be used to help provide enough power to your home. This can range from solar panels to wind power and even using diesel generators as the only source of power. With the only requirement is a steady supply of diesel, which can be stockpiled if need be.

So there it is, a short and brief description and explanation as to why people are beginning to prepare and how. Sometimes going back to basics and understanding what is really important can be a refreshing experience for those surrounded in technology and living in a bustling city.