How to Build a Strong Prepper Survival Network for Any Emergency

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

– Helen Keller

One of the most overlooked factors in preparing for emergencies is the power of community. 

Sure, having enough food, water, and gear is essential, but no amount of supplies can replace the value of having a trusted group of people by your side.

When disaster strikes, surviving alone isn’t enough (you’ll need the support, skills, and resources of others to help you get through). 

Building a strong network is one of the best ways to get ready for emergencies, making sure you have a group of people you can count on when you need them most.

In this article, I’ll share how to build a network of like-minded people, where you can exchange skills, resources, and strategies to make sure you are prepared for whatever comes your way.

What is a Prepper Survival Network?

A Prepper Survival Network is a group of people who come together to prepare for emergencies, such as natural disasters, man-made emergencies, or other major crises.

Instead of relying solely on their own supplies and skills, everyone in the group shares their knowledge and resources.

The importance of such a network lies in the diversity of contributions each person brings to the table. Some members might have expertise in first aid, others may know how to grow food, and some might possess extra gear or tools.

Together, they create a support system that strengthens their ability to handle any crisis that comes their way.

What are the Benefits of Joining a Prepping Network?

Instead of trying to manage everything on your own, being part of a group makes things a lot easier and more effective.

Keep reading to see how working together can help you be more ready for anything.

Shared Resources

One of the biggest benefits is having access to a shared supply of essentials. In a prepper community, everyone can contribute items like food, water, medical supplies, and gear (things you might not have or be able to afford on your own).

If you're running low on something, there's a good chance someone in the group has extra and is willing to share.

Skills and Knowledge

Perhaps everyone in the network has different skills and experiences.

Maybe one person is great at fixing tools, while another knows how to grow food, and someone else might be good with first aid (or even self-defense).

This mix of skills is really valuable. You don’t have to learn everything yourself or worry about being unprepared in certain areas (because the group can fill in the gaps).

Better Preparedness

In a group, members share new information, tips, and strategies (including updates on possible threats).

You don’t have to figure everything out on your own (because others are doing the same thing). Having this shared knowledge helps everyone stay better prepared, so you’re not left scrambling when something happens.

Improved Security

If things get bad, having a group of people to help protect your home or supplies is much better (compared to relying on yourself alone).

You can set up security plans, share tips on protecting your property, and watch out for each other. There’s strength in numbers, so having a group means you’re less likely to be vulnerable.

Knowing that you have backup can provide peace of mind during uncertain times.

Sense of Community

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or isolated when things go wrong, but being part of a prepping network helps combat that feeling of loneliness.

You’re surrounded by a group of people who share your goals and values (and are working toward the same level of preparedness).

It’s reassuring to know that you have people who understand what you’re trying to do and who are ready to help when needed.

This sense of community can support your mental well-being (and make the whole process less stressful).

Real Life Examples of Prepping Networks

Here are some real-life prepping communities and networks you can join to help strengthen your preparedness.

• Mutual Aid Disaster Relief (U.S.)
• Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)
• The Citadel (Idaho, U.S.)
• Earthaven Ecovillage (North Carolina, U.S.)
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) preparedness programs
• Fortitude Ranch and Fortitude Camp (West Virginia)
• American Preppers Network

Where to Find a Prepping Network?

If you don’t have a prepping network nearby, don’t worry.

There are plenty of places to connect with like-minded people online (and even in your community).

Family and Friends

Don’t forget that your closest connections are often the best place to start.

Since you already trust each other, it’s easier to talk about preparedness and get everyone on the same page.

For example, imagine a natural disaster (like an earthquake) hits your area. If you’ve already discussed a plan with your family, you know exactly where to meet, what supplies to grab, and who’s responsible for what.

If your neighbor is part of your network, they can help secure your property or watch over your place while you take care of your family.

Now, let’s say there’s a food shortage. If you and your close friends have been sharing knowledge on growing food or preserving it, you might be able to trade extra produce or canned goods with each other.

You see, this kind of support can truly make a big difference in tough times.

Online Communities and Forums

The internet is a great place to find prepper groups and forums.

Websites like Reddit, Facebook, and specialized prepping forums are filled with people who share tips, advice, and resources to help each other prepare for emergencies.

These platforms allow you to connect with others, no matter where they’re located (which is perfect if you don’t have many prepper groups nearby).

In these forums, people often post advice, tools, and resources that you might not find anywhere else.

For example, you might discover a new way to store food for long-term use, learn about new survival gear, or hear about someone’s real-life experiences during a disaster (which could help you prepare better).

Being part of these online groups is also an easy way to stay up to date on new prepping ideas or news about potential threats (like natural disasters or supply chain issues).

The best part is that you can interact with people from all over the world (so you get a wide range of perspectives and solutions).

Local Meetups and Community Events

Many cities and towns have local prepping groups that meet in person.

These meetups are a great way to learn survival skills, exchange tips, and connect with others nearby who are also preparing for emergencies.

You can find groups focused on specific topics, like food storage, how to start a garden, or basic first aid (things that are practical and useful in a crisis).

There are actually websites like Meetup.com that you can use to find local prepping groups.

You might find a group called “Chicago Preppers” that meets once a month to discuss emergency plans or a “Survival Skills Training Course” in your area that teaches practical outdoor skills like fire starting or building a shelter.

These events give you the chance to meet others face-to-face, share ideas, and even practice skills together (like setting up a shelter or starting a fire).

If you can’t find a group nearby, consider starting your own (there are likely others looking for the same thing).

Homesteading and Self-Sufficiency Groups

Preppers often have a lot in common with homesteaders since both focus on becoming more self-sufficient and learning homesteading skills like gardening, food preservation, and raising animals.

You can find local farming co-ops, gardening clubs, or homesteading events (these are great places to meet people who share your interests).

At these meetups, you can learn how to grow food, preserve it, or raise chickens for eggs (and get tips from others who’ve been doing it for years).

These groups are usually friendly (they’re all about sharing knowledge and resources).

Whether you’re new to prepping or have some experience, joining these groups helps you learn more and connect with others who want to live more independently.

Building Your Own Prepping Network

If you want to start your own prepping network, I’ve just compiled basic steps about what you can do to begin:

1. Define Your Goals and Values

You'll want to think first about what you want to achieve in your network.

What kind of preparedness are you focusing on—food, water, medical, security, or all of the above?

It’s important that everyone in the group agrees on what emergencies you’re preparing for and the level of commitment required (this helps avoid misunderstandings down the road).

2. Start Small and Grow Gradually

You don’t need to form a huge group right away. Start with a small circle of trusted people (family, close friends, or neighbors) and build from there.

Once you’ve got a core group, you can slowly add others who share your goals. A smaller group allows you to build trust and stronger relationships, which are crucial for getting things done when needed.

3. Assign Roles Based on Skills

Everyone in your group should have a role based on their strengths. Some might excel at organizing supplies, while others might be skilled in first aid or security.

By assigning roles, everyone knows what they’re responsible for (which helps things run more smoothly when it counts).

4. Communicate Regularly

Keep in touch with your group regularly using a reliable communication method to stay updated on plans and any new information.

Make sure everyone has an easy way to communicate (this could be through apps, emails, or phone numbers).

The more you stay connected, the better prepared your group will be and the stronger your bond will become.

5. Practice Together

It’s easy to talk about plans, but practicing is just as important.

Set up regular drills or practice sessions, such as fire drills, first aid training, or mock emergency scenarios, so everyone knows what to do in a real emergency.

This helps build confidence and ensures that your group is ready when it matters most. Practicing together also gives you a chance to see what works and what might need adjusting (so you’re always improving).

These are just some of the steps you can take to ensure you and your loved ones are ready for any emergencies.

Joining forces with family, friends, or others who share the same goals (and can provide skills, support, and resources) makes everything easier and better prepares you for the unexpected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)