Introduction to EMP Attack Survival
An EMP (electromagnetic pulse) attack is one of the most serious disasters we could face. EMPs can be generated by man-made weapons or natural events like solar flares, and can wipe out electrical grids and fry sensitive electronics across huge areas. Being prepared for an EMP can literally be the difference between life and death when all the modern technology we depend on is rendered useless.
The key to survival is protecting critical electronics ahead of time. Simple steps like building Faraday cages to shield devices, choosing equipment designed to withstand EMPs, and storing backup tools in remote locations can go a long way.
This article will provide practical strategies for securing key electronics and being ready to live without power if an EMP attack or solar flare wipes out the electrical grid. Being proactive now is crucial, as an EMP can happen with little warning.
Understanding EMP Threats
EMPs are created by sudden, high-energy bursts of electromagnetic radiation. Electromagnetic radiation includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays and gamma rays. These intense electric and magnetic fields can overload circuits and destroy sensitive electronics.
EMPs occur naturally during solar flares, but also can be generated artificially by nuclear weapons detonated high in the atmosphere. The pulses overload circuits with energy spikes, burning out components and frying microelectronics.
The most feared scenario is a high-altitude EMP (HEMP) attack launched by a rogue state or terrorist group. A single nuclear warhead detonated miles above the Earth could blanket the entire continental U.S. with an EMP that destroys vulnerable electrical infrastructure. Planes could fall from the sky, hospitals could go dark, and communications would fail. An EMP Commission report estimates that 9 out of 10 Americans could die within a year if such a long-term blackout occurred.
Man-made EMP weapons on smaller scales also threaten isolated targets like cities or military assets. EMP cannons using microwave beams can destroy electronics without the nuclear fallout.
Natural EMP events like solar storms and lightning strikes can be equally as devastating. A powerful solar flare in 1859 caused telegraph systems to fail across the U.S. and Europe. A 1989 geomagnetic storm blacked out the entire Canadian province of Quebec within seconds.
The most vulnerable electronics to EMP damage have delicate circuits and chips that process electric signals, especially devices never designed to handle power surges. Modern computing and communications devices are therefore at high risk of getting fried.
Shielding Electronics from EMPs
The ideal solution is to keep critical electronics protected inside a Faraday cage. Named after scientist Michael Faraday, a Faraday cage blocks external static and non-static electric fields. This encloses the equipment in a protective EM barrier that directs currents around the container and prevents EMPs from causing damage.
A simple DIY Faraday cage can be made from a galvanized steel trash can or metal filing cabinet. Use a conductive metal like solid steel and ensure there are no gaps in the sealing. Avoid using mesh screens with holes, as these will not effectively block EMPs.
For larger items, you can convert entire rooms into makeshift Faraday cages by covering walls with galvanized steel mesh sheets. Seal any gaps with metal tape and protect any outlets or wires entering the room.
Prioritize storing smaller electronics that are vital for survival like emergency radios, walkie-talkies, ham radios for communication, and medical devices like portable defibrillators. Also include backup batteries and power supplies, such as Goal Zero Yeti 400 lithium portable power stations which can provide solar-recharged power.
Choosing Hardened Electronics
Some electronics are intentionally designed and built to withstand EMPs. Choosing these hardened devices can improve your preparedness and reduce reliance on more fragile modern tech.
The simplest hardened electronics are vehicles and equipment lacking complex integrated circuits and microelectronics. For example, older diesel vehicles without electronic fuel injection are more likely to survive an EMP due to the mechanical nature of their engines.
Simple hand-cranked or battery-powered AM/FM radios are available that lack the vulnerable antennas and microelectronics of standard models. C. Crane Company makes excellent emergency radios like the CC Solar Observer that run on solar or hand crank power.
Certain manufacturers also sell specialty electronics and equipment that is separately EMP-hardened. Top makers of ruggedized electronics include Motorola, Harris Corporation, General Dynamics, and Cobham plc. When evaluating hardened devices, look for protection standards like Mil-Std 188-125 and specifications for HPM/HEMP shielding.
However, even the most heavy-duty electronics should not be relied on after an EMP. It's wise to have effective low-tech backup options like emergency radios that run on solar power or hand cranks. Being able to communicate, access news, and stay informed during grid failure is critical.
Storing Backup Electronics Off-Grid
Keep spare electronics stored at an off-grid site distant from potential EMP ground zero areas. Electronics stashed away from population centers and underground have a better chance of escaping EMP effects.
Rural retreats like cabins can make ideal EMP-protected caches for backups. Bury electronics deep underground in PVC tubes or Faraday bags for added protection. The natural blocking effect of earth and rock helps shield against EMPs.
Just be sure your storage location is distant from the main grid. Electronics stored in a city apartment building or hooked up to municipal power may still be vulnerable even if hidden away in a Faraday cage. The goal is creating multiple layers of EMP defense for your equipment.
Good locations include off-grid vacation cabins, rural retreats, buried hillside caches away from power lines, and even storage units in small isolated towns. Also have Faraday bag kits like FR1 faraday bags in your bug out bag to protect portable electronics while on the move.
Preparing for Life Without Power
Sheltering electronics is one defense against EMPs, but it's also critical to prepare for extended blackouts. Life after an EMP would mean living without modern electric-powered infrastructure we take for granted. Gas pumps, phones, computers, medical facilities and supply chains could be wiped out in an instant.
Practice doing everything manually, as if you were living in 1850. Stockpile candles, oil lamps, fuel sources, and batteries. Have water filtration and cooking methods ready that don't require electricity, such as cast iron wood stoves. Skills like canning, hunting, food preservation, first aid, and DIY repairs will be highly valued. A community with varied knowledge and resources will endure better than isolated preppers.
Generators are okay for short term use after an EMP, but fuel will eventually run out. Long-term power solutions are small solar panel arrays like Goal Zero Boulder 100 briefcase panels that allow charging devices and running DC appliances. Live drills practicing survival without modern gear are the best preparation for life after an EMP.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
The potentially devastating impacts of EMP attacks and solar storms make it vital to secure critical electronics now before disaster strikes. By shielding devices in Faraday cages, choosing hardened equipment, storing backups off-grid, and preparing to live without modern electricity, you can improve your chances of surviving and functioning after an EMP.
The 5 most important steps are:
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Build proper Faraday cages for electronics and seal fully with conductive metal.
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Select radios, medical devices and backup power sources designed to withstand EMPs.
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Keep spare equipment at rural off-grid locations distant from EMP ground zero risk areas.
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Learn fundamental survival skills and have non-electric options for lighting, cooking, water, etc.
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Routinely practice low-tech manual techniques for an extended life without power.
The strategies outlined in this article are actionable steps all preppers should take today. An ounce of EMP protection preparation can be worth a pound of survival when the power grids fail. But it requires continued learning, vigilance and practice. By heeding these lessons, you can overcome the threat posed by EMPs.
