Ukraine is at war with Russia to defend itself from President Vladimir Putin's efforts to overtake the country. Ukraine is not in NATO, meaning that Russia did not inherently go to war with NATO countries like the US by these actions, but that hasn't quelled fears of World War III. It has been a real concern for some and less serious for others, but although there isn't enough information to point to what is to come, people are entitled to do what they believe will make them more prepared and safe from direct threats, emergencies, or strains in this country as a result of what's happening abroad.
One of the ways people attempt to protect themselves is through stockpiling goods. In some cases, being prepared is helpful, so we've listed some things to consider buying as well as others you shouldn't waste your money on. And for those who are worried, this is by no means an admission that anything related to the war is coming to American soil. It never hurts to be prepared in case of any emergency.
Water
Water is always something useful to have stashed away just in case. One example is in case the power goes out during a storm or if there's an issue with the water supply. Just don't hoard water in case there is some sort of more imminent emergency.
Flashlights
Flashlights are handy items to have on hand should the power go out. They can be used in darkness or outside the home when there are areas with low light or no light. Another use for flashlights is to see in a dark space such as under the hood of a car or other mechanical areas. Consider keeping them in accessible areas such as in the car or the garage.
Written Contacts or Places To Meet
We all rely pretty heavily on our cellphone memory systems when it comes to reaching out to loved ones by phone and on Facebook or Instagram's messaging systems to reach friends. Heaven knows most of us don't know birthdays without it. That's why it's important to have numbers and addresses of importance written somewhere in case a cellphone is lost or out of power.
Long-lasting Food To Grab in a Pinch
We've seen that war often drives residents to other countries for refuge. This could mean travel with not much access to food. But even in emergencies that aren't war-related, it's a good idea to have nonperishable food to grab in a hurry in case heat, water, or electricity are not accessible. Remember to keep kids' snacks and baby formula on hand if you have little ones.
Pet Food
The war in Ukraine has affected animals as well as humans. Pets have been left behind with shelter volunteers scrambling to find enough food to feed them. The families who were able to take their pets with them also have to travel and find ways to feel them as well as their kids and themselves. It's a reminder to store extra pet food in an emergency for your use or to donate to others who may be in need.
Anything You Regularly Use That's On Sale
During times of war or pandemics, such as now, supply chain issues can arise. The US saw that firsthand, as gas prices have soared and food prices have risen. If there are things such as food or personal care items that you may need a lot of, over the counter medication, or baby food, grab a few extra to add to the inventory in case prices get higher or they are hard to find.
What Not To Stockpile: Toilet Paper
We learned from the early days of the pandemic that the thought of going without toilet paper freaks out Americans, but it's not an item that needs to be considered in an emergency. It's convenient to have a little extra on hand, but there's no need to hoard toilet paper.
Fancy Gadgets or Tools
Gadgets that require electricity to function or tools that are too heavy and bulky to transport are not things to stock up on. Sure, maybe look into a generator, but grabbing four food processors just because the economy may be in turmoil won't help much. People won't be able to afford to buy them from you, and you won't be able to carry them if you need to change locations.
Gasoline
Yes, gas prices are astronomical right now and it could be hard to get more gas in a rush during an emergency, but hoarding gas is not a good idea. It is dangerous, for one, if something flammable catches fire nearby or in the place where the gas is stored, but it also makes it harder for everyone else. In addition, fuel can go bad — sometimes in just a few months.
Money in Unsecured Online-only Accounts
Conflict in the 21st century means more than just chemical and physical warfare with bombs and soldiers. There's also cyber warfare. Russia, in particular, has hacked US computer systems, and if it hacks places where people store or invest money, those who put assets there might not be able to get them out.
