If you’re anything like me, then not a day goes by without you dreaming of the coming zombie apocalypse. You’ve read every book on the subject and watched all the movies you can get your hands on. You’re a true fan of the genre, and you know exactly what you’re going to do when everyone around you turns into flesh-eating monsters. But be honest, how prepared are you really?
Here are ten practical tips for surviving the onslaught of the walking dead. Follow them, and you just might survive the end of the world.
-
- Have a bug-out-bag ready to go at all times. More than one, in fact. Keep them in convenient and easy-to-reach locations such as the trunk of your car, a bedroom closet, the garage, and the kitchen pantry. These bags are meant to carry everything you need should you have to leave in a hurry. (Do you want to know how to pack the perfect bug-out bag? Then check out this blog post on my website.)
- Zombie-proof your home. In the event that you have to fort-up inside your house, you’ll need to make sure it’s safe. A few simple measures such as burglar proofing and a solid fence will go a long way. Cover all the windows and barricade the doors. Keep lights and noise to a minimum. The last thing you want to do is send out an invitation to dinner.
- Arm yourself. This goes without saying, but you’ll need to be armed. Not only will you face hordes of roving zombies, but not all humans will be friendly either. Many will seek to rob or otherwise harm you, and you’d best be prepared to defend yourself.
- Choose your weapons wisely. Unless you have the strength of the Norse god, Thor, swinging a giant hammer is not as easy as it looks. Invest in a machete. They are cheap, lightweight, and efficient. Also, a good quality carbon steel knife will serve you well, and not only when it comes to killing zombies. The same goes for guns. You’ll want something that is accurate, reliable, lightweight, and easy to use. Plus, ammunition should be readily available. However, if you can’t hit the broadside of a barn, consider a shotgun with an extended magazine.
- Aim for the head. This is a given considering that destroying the brain is the only way to kill a zombie, but it’s not as easy as it looks. The head presents a much smaller target than the body; hence the need for accuracy. And if the target is moving, it can be near impossible to score a hit. Attend a course. Practice. Above all, pray that the zombies are the traditional type: slow and stupid.
- Decapitation is not for sissies. While we’re on the subject of heads, just remember. The average skull is much thicker than you think. Stabbing a zombie with a knife in the head is a dumb idea. So is trying to chop through the neck. It’s filled with muscle, sinew, and vertebrae. Unless you have a razor-sharp blade and biceps for Africa, aim for the eyes and other soft spots.
- Find a friend, but pick someone who’s resourceful, smart, and brave. The type of person who’ll have your back no matter what. If they’re the opposite, however, you could still use them as bait when you’re in a tight spot. Waste not, want not.
- Stock your cupboards. Make sure you have an adequate supply of clean water and non-perishable food available. Aim for enough to last several days, at least (preferably, weeks or months). Pick items that don’t require special storage or refrigeration and are high in calories and nutrients. The same goes for medicine. A fully-equipped first-aid kit is a must, as are any special chronic medications. Don’t forget toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and toilet paper. Batteries, flashlights, candles, matches, and other items for basic cooking and living needs are essential.
- Dress the part. Practical clothing that fits well and suits the weather is the only way to go when it’s the end of the world. If you’re fit and the zombies are slow, running is the ticket. Invest in good quality running shoes and hoof it out of danger. If you’re a couch potato, boots are your best friend. Stomp them heads into mush! Also, think of ways to protect your vulnerable flesh against those vicious teeth. Thick material, gloves, body armor . . . be inventive.
- Last, but not least, make sure you have the correct vehicle. It needs to be tough enough to handle the odd zombie crowd, poor roads, and car wrecks, but light enough on fuel to get you where you need to go. As for the engine, diesel lasts longer than gasoline. If you’re alone and packing light, a motorcycle is a good option. As is a bicycle when you need to travel in silence.
- Bonus Tip: Have a hobby. During the many times that you’ll be alone, scared, and on the verge of a break-down, have something that will keep you sane. A good book is a great example. In fact, if you sign up for my newsletter, you’ll receive a FREE exclusive ebook filled with post-apocalyptic action today.
There you have it. Ten tips for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse. Of course, it’s not quite that easy. There are several other factors that can and will come into play, including luck. But if you observe these tips and keep your head screwed on straight, you stand a fighting chance. Good luck!
What are your tips for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse?
Hallo from a Covid Witbank, Mpumalanga
Jip a fellow South African. Hope you are well. Loved your Zombie tips. I really Thank it applies to the situation in the country at the moment;) Thank you for your books, I really enjoy these kinds of books.
Awwwww, Baleigh! Thanks for worrying about us in the Zompoc. Be safe! Y’all order her books! They are awesome!
Love this list of sensible and clear steps.
Loved the list. Practical and clear just like your books.