When a crisis strikes, being prepared is crucial, as is knowing what to avoid. A few missteps can put you and others in danger during an SHTF (S*** Hits The Fan) scenario. Here are 13 things you should never do when things go south.
1. Obsess Over News

In an SHTF situation, obsessively watching the news can lead to stress and confusion. The news can be full of conflicting information, which only paralyzes you. While staying informed is essential, limit your intake and stick to credible sources. Do not let constant updates distract you from taking effective action or planning steps ahead of the crowd.
2. Refuse Assistance

During a crisis, refusing aid can be a mistake, especially if you need essential supplies like food or water. While it’s good to be self-reliant, sometimes accepting help is necessary. Be wary of offers with strings attached, but use free resources to your advantage when possible. Preparedness allows you to be selective about the help you accept.
3. Neglect Security

Security becomes even more crucial during an SHTF scenario. You may face desperate individuals looking to take what they need or organized groups aiming to exploit the situation. Make sure to secure your home, set up alert systems, and stay aware of your surroundings. Always have a plan for self-defense and keep others around for added security when possible.
4. Break Your Own Moral Code

In difficult times, it’s essential to maintain your principles. Even if the situation is dire, don’t compromise your values by stealing or harming others. A strong moral foundation can help build trust with others and foster a supportive community. Being a good neighbor and cooperating with others can strengthen your support network and improve your odds of survival.
5. Immediately Bug Out

Leaving your home without a well-thought-out plan can make you more vulnerable. Unless you have a secure, designated location to go to, it’s usually safer to stay put. Bugging out may make you a refugee, so consider this option only as a last resort. Fortifying your home and gathering supplies there often provides better security than taking to the road.
6. Give In to Despair

In long-term crises, it’s easy to lose hope, but doing so can lead to inaction and stagnation. Despair hinders your ability to make proactive decisions, which are critical in an emergency. Staying mentally resilient, tackling tasks, and finding small victories can help keep you motivated, which will be crucial for both you and anyone who depends on you.
7. Discuss Your Preps with Others

Sharing your preparations with others can make you a target. Friends or neighbors who know what you have might come looking for supplies if they’re in need. It’s best to keep your plans private and avoid discussing your stockpiles with anyone outside your trusted inner circle. “Loose lips sink ships” applies in SHTF just as much as it did in wartime.
8. Plan for Only One Scenario

A rigid plan can backfire if things don’t go as expected. Planning for only one type of disaster limits your ability to adapt. Instead, consider a variety of scenarios, from natural disasters to pandemics or social unrest. Flexibility and having multiple contingency plans will increase your chances of survival when things take an unexpected turn.
9. Go Lone Wolf

In survival situations, isolation can make things harder. Having a community or a small network of trusted individuals to rely on provides shared resources, security, and support. While it’s essential to choose your group carefully, having allies can help cover different needs, like guarding, gathering supplies, or providing companionship.
10. Look Weak or Vulnerable

How you present yourself can either make you a target or deter threats. Appearing strong and confident can keep criminals or others with ill intentions at bay. While it’s wise to stay low-profile, don’t look like easy prey. A balanced approach helps: blend in without appearing helpless, as that might make you a more attractive target.
11. Ignore Health and Hygiene

Staying healthy is essential during a crisis. Proper hygiene, clean water, and balanced nutrition prevent infection and illness. It’s also a good idea to stock up on hygiene items and first-aid supplies and know how to use them. Don’t neglect these basics, as they can be crucial to your survival when access to medical help is limited.
12. Engage in the Blame Game

Wasting energy on who or what caused the crisis can slow you down. In survival situations, it’s better to focus on the present and what you can control. Blaming others or circumstances won’t improve your situation, so let go of the past and work on creating a plan that moves you forward.
13. Panic

Panic is one of the worst things you can do. It prevents clear thinking and leads to rash decisions, which could jeopardize your safety. If you start feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to breathe and think about the steps you need to take. Preparation and having essential supplies on hand can help keep panic in check.
Knowing What Not to Do

When facing an SHTF scenario, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Avoid these common mistakes to stay safer, more secure, and ready for whatever challenges come your way.

Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.