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Writer's pictureIvan Tsar

The black swan


An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack or sabotage of the power grid by domestic terrorists can lead to widespread disruption. Such events can knock out electrical power over large areas, potentially leading to long-term outages. This article offers practical steps to prepare for and respond to such incidents, enhancing your resilience and safety.


Understanding EMP and Power Grid Attacks

1. Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP): An EMP is a burst of electromagnetic energy that can disrupt or destroy electronic devices and systems. It can be caused by nuclear detonations in the atmosphere or specialized non-nuclear devices.


2. Power Grid Sabotage: This involves physical or cyber attacks on the electrical grid to disrupt power supply. Such attacks can target substations, power lines, or computer systems controlling the grid.


Immediate Actions During an EMP or Power Grid Failure

1. Confirm the Situation:


Assess whether electronic devices are malfunctioning.

Use a battery-powered radio to receive updates, as EMPs may disable electronic communications.



2. Minimize Movement:


Stay indoors if safe, as widespread outages can lead to societal disturbances.

Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.


3. Secure Basic Needs:


Use emergency supplies of water and non-perishable food.

Avoid opening refrigerators and freezers to retain cold air and preserve food unless you have a backup system.

Long-Term Preparedness Strategies


1. Maintain an Emergency Kit:


Stockpile water, food, medications, and other essentials which you should already have this ready .

Include manual tools, flashlights, batteries, and a solar charging system .


2. Protect Electronics:


Use Faraday cages or shields to protect critical electronics from EMP effects even for vehicles.

Have backup power options like electric generators or solar panels which are "silent" and won't cause attention like gas powered generators.



3. Develop a Communication Plan:


Plan how to contact family members if traditional means fail with sattelite phones or CB/HAM radios.

Consider alternatives like two-way radios as well or walkie talkies.


4. Stay Informed and Educated:


Understand the risks associated with EMPs and grid failures.

Participate in community preparedness programs.


5. Secure Your Home:


Reinforce security measures to prevent looting or break-ins during outages , if security cameras fail

Ensure you have manual overrides for electronic backup security systems and create a barrier system against looter's.


Coping with the Psychological Impact


1. Maintain a Routine:


Keep a daily schedule to manage stress and maintain normalcy like taking ashwaganda or mental board games .

Engage in physical activity and mental health practices like calistetics .



2. Community Support:


Work with " trusted and vetted " neighbors and local groups to share resources and information.

Establish a local network for mutual aid and emotional support.


Preparing for an EMP strike or a power grid attack by domestic terrorists requires a combination of immediate action and long-term planning. By understanding the nature of these threats and implementing comprehensive preparedness measures, individuals and communities can enhance their resilience and ability to cope with such profound challenges.




Election interference by domestic terrorists poses a significant threat to the democratic process. In extreme cases, such interference could lead to the imposition of martial law and the suspension of elections. This article discusses how to understand, prepare for, and respond to these threats to ensure the resilience of democratic institutions.


Recognizing the Signs of Election Interference

1. Cyber Attacks:


Hacking of voter registration databases and election management systems.

Dissemination of false information to confuse voters or undermine electoral integrity.


2. Physical Disruption:


Intimidation or violence at polling stations.

Destruction or theft of voting equipment.



3. Psychological Warfare:


Spreading disinformation through social media and other outlets.

Creating and amplifying divisions within the electorate.


The Prospect of Martial Law

1. Definition and Implications:


Martial law is the temporary imposition of direct military control of normal civil functions or suspension of civil law by a government, often in response to a crisis.

When martial law is declared, civil liberties, such as the right to free movement, fair trial, and freedom of assembly, might be suspended.

2. Conditions Leading to Martial Law:


Severe national security threats that civil institutions are deemed incapable of managing.

Situations where the rule of law has broken down and the functioning of civil governance is no longer effective.

Preparing for and Responding to Election Interference


1. Stay Informed:


Regularly check multiple reliable news sources for updates about the electoral process.

Be critical of information received on social media and consider the source.

2. Secure Communication:


Use encrypted communication tools to discuss sensitive matters.

Be cautious of sharing personal information over the phone or online.

3. Engage in Civic Activities:


Participate in or organize community forums to discuss election security.

Volunteer as a poll worker to help ensure the election process runs smoothly.



4. Know Your Rights:


Understand the laws surrounding elections and civil rights.

Contact local election officials to report any irregularities.


5. Develop Contingency Plans:


Have a plan for reaching polling stations, including alternatives if the usual routes are disrupted.

Prepare for potential delays or changes in voting procedures.


Coping with Martial Law

1. Legal Awareness:


Know the specific regulations and orders under martial law.

Understand the limits of military and police powers during this period.

2. Maintain Communication:


Keep in touch with family and community members.

Establish a plan for staying connected if traditional communication networks go down.

3. Support Community and Legal Efforts:


Engage with community leaders and legal advocates who are upholding democratic principles.

Participate in peaceful assemblies if possible, and provide support to legal challenges against unjust practices.



The threat of election interference and the potential imposition of martial law require vigilance, preparedness, and active participation in democratic processes. By staying informed, engaging in civic activities, and understanding legal rights and responsibilities, citizens can help safeguard the integrity of elections and maintain the rule of law even in challenging times.








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