Okay, not really, and not now. Now. Maybe later this week. Definitely later this week!

A few days ago, I tweeted  that I sure hoped SHTF would hold off until spring. Real spring, not like last year when February lasted approximately 97 days.

But just in case it doesn’t hold off, are you ready for the cold?

Physically, it seems pretty obvious – have plenty of firewood, propane, insert-fuel-of-choice. Don’t forget matches and tinder, like saved dryer lint or firestarters made from old candle ends wrapped in waxed paper.

Be prepared to layer your clothing, including thermal pieces, and have lots of warm and/or wool socks. Don’t forget to change those before you go to sleep – your feet sweat during the day and those socks will chill your feet before they dry out overnight. Use mink oil to condition, clean, and make your boots water-resistant.

Mittens will keep your hands warmer than gloves, but are a pain if you have to use your fingers. Consider wearing mittens over your gloves, or buy a fancy pair or three that incorporate both designs. Have extras too, as well as waterproof gloves.

Those hand and foot warmers are nice for now, but keep in mind that they usually require a microwave to initially heat them, so, yeah . . .

Hats and scarves will help keep the heat inside your body, and the chill off your head and neck. Make sure to tuck in the scarves, though, inside your coat, so they stay out of the way. And out of the fire.

Forty-below-rated sleeping bags are a must-have, as well as blankets to pile on top. And I’m sure someone will mention body heat, so there ya go! The thing about sleeping, on a serious note, is that if you’re shivering all night long, you won’t get the rest you need to survive.

I’m sure all of you can think of a few things I didn’t cover . . .