James Meisler

Like most sentient carbon based life forms, my brain is wired to keep itself alive.  So, in general I fear death.  It’s a healthy fear and it keeps me in line.  But the one thing I fear more than death is undeath.  Not particularly mine, but that of others–which I guess, in turn would lead to mine without preparation.  I’ve spend the past five years or so thinking a lot about how I might try to survive during a Zombie Apocalypse.  Originally, my attention was  aroused by video games and movies.  But a recent series of events has gotten me more concerned.  First was this Cracked article:

Now, these concerns aren’t wholly related to an attack by the undead, but that is the worst-case scenario.  A total financial collapse, hurricane, tornado, nuclear explosion, or some other anarchy-inducing catastrophe could increase my need to survive in a situation far removed my cubicle dwelling white collar existence(1).   Anyway: Zombies.  There are a number of resources I’m consulting.

1. Zombie Survival and Defense Wiki

This is a useful searchable wiki, however unlike a wiki using the Mediawiki format, I don’t think the entire thing could be downloaded.  Luckily, there are other hard copy resources.

2. Zombie Survival Guide

It’s a parody of other survival guides, but it’s enough to get you on the right track.  I wouldn’t use this as an actual reference, of course.

3. United States Army Field Manual

The quintessential survival manual.  How to make weapons and tools, build shelter, find food, and stay alive in various environments and situations.  PDF version available.

4. The survival Store

Source for water treatment, food prep., first aid, etc.  Now, the sight doesn’t specifically mention zombie attacks, their statement of purpose leads me to believe that as a client, I will be well prepared:

We truly operate the internet’s largest family of safety, survival, preparedness and health & wellness companies dedicated to serving public, professional and governmental needs. Our main goal has been to offer a vast selection of products to help bring all those in need to a high level of readiness that will help them cope with most any crisis that may befall them.

1. Incidentally, there is a piece in last year’s The Best American Nonrequired Reading called “Diary of the Living Dead or: Are You There God? It’s Me Also, a Bunch of Zombies” by jake Swearingen.  About someone trapped in an office during a zombie attack.  Buy the book or read it here.