Editor's Comment: We've reached the point where many people are starting to look around and get it. The economic collapse of 2008 wasn't a fluctuation, a downtown of the cycle. It was a step down, a new normal for everyone to get used to. But acclimation has been difficult, and slow. People are still looking around for the familiar signs of stability, but something very important is missing.

The model has collapsed, and the net is closing in around everyone. The majority of people are experiencing difficulties making ends meet; many are becoming desperate, fed up and hopeless. What will the effect be a sustained, drawn out collapse? Everyone just left out to dry and be swept up into the collective.

These are the times when it would be wise to make rational, long term, cautious and conservative moves towards prepping for events where income loss, financial turbulence and unsteady people are all systemic risks. Building a supply of food, equipment, medical supplies and alternative energy are all important, and here's how you can start to prepare for any disaster that may come your way.