World War 3(?)

When the World Feels Unstable, Start with What You Can Control

Posted by Clinton County EMA | June 3, 2025

The headlines this week are hard to ignore.

On Monday, terror struck the city of Boulder, Colorado, leaving a community reeling from a coordinated attack that investigators now believe was driven by ideological extremism.

On the other side of the globe, Ukraine launched one of its largest drone offensives yet against Russian military airfields, damaging strategic bombers and air defense systems deep inside Russian territory.

Whether it’s domestic terrorism or a brewing international conflict, many Americans are asking the same question: Is this how World War 3 begins?

We don’t know the future. We never have, and probably never will. But here’s what we do know: when things get uncertain, you don’t panic—you prepare.

START SMALL: Your Everyday Carry (EDC)

Your Everyday Carry isn’t just about gadgets or gear—it’s about mindset. It’s about asking yourself, What do I need on me, right now, that could help save a life—mine or someone else’s?

One commonly overlooked EDC item is a basic first aid component. A tourniquet, trauma dressing, or even a mini bleed-control kit can make the difference between life and death—not just in a high-risk situation, but in everyday accidents:

• Seniors on blood thinners facing a major cut

• Farmers working solo with heavy equipment

• Car wrecks where help might be delayed

You don’t need to be a paramedic to make a difference. You do need to be trained.

TRAINING: One Class Can Save a Life

Stop The Bleed is a national training program that teaches how to control severe

bleeding. It’s simple, hands-on, and applicable in everything from mass casualty incidents to rural injuries. Courses are offered by the American Red Cross, local hospitals, and even some fire departments.

There’s also CPR & First Aid training available at low or no cost in many areas. These aren’t just "nice-to-have" skills—they’re essentials.

STOCK SMART: Resilience Starts at Home

You don’t need a fallout bunker to get ahead. You just need to think like a problem-solver.

Many preparedness actions designed for natural disasters will serve you just as well in

manmade ones:

• Shelf-stable foods: Focus on canned meats, pasta, peanut butter, and soup—items you already eat.

• Water supply: Keep at least one gallon of water per person per day, for three days minimum.

• Power & cooking: Have a grill or camp stove with fuel, and a way to charge devices off-grid. Don't forget the manual can opener!

• Health & hygiene: Keep backup medications, a first aid kit, and personal care items on hand.

• Cash & communication: ATMs and card readers may go down. Have cash and a contact plan.

More tips and a full checklist are available on our site:👉 www.cc-ema.org/kit

REMEMBER: Preparedness is Customizable Insurance

Unlike a monthly bill, preparedness pays off only when you need it—but how much

you’ve invested directly affects what you get out of it. And it doesn’t need to break the bank. Add a few extra items to your cart each time you shop. Use what you buy. Rotate your supplies. Stay aware.

Preparedness isn’t paranoia. It’s peace of mind.

So while the world turns and tensions rise, don’t let fear rule your day. Take action. Start small. Build a little resilience today, so you're not behind tomorrow.

Because the future isn’t promised—but preparation is always possible.

—Clinton County Emergency Management Agency

Stay Ready. Stay Informed. Stay Safe.

www.cc-ema.org/ready