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"Prepare Tribe: Prepare, Protect, Provide" on BrightU: How to build a disaster-proof shelter in the middle of nowhere

By jacobthomas // 2025-04-13

• In Episode 5 of  "Prepare Tribe: Prepare, Protect, Provide," Morgan Mitchell advocated for rural locations over urban or suburban areas, emphasizing natural defenses like elevation and distance from wildfire zones. Urban dwellers should create strategic observation posts to monitor threats.
• Underground geothermal systems maintain stable temperatures (55°F year-round), while solar panels with battery storage provide energy independence—critical in sunny regions like the Southwest.
• Mitchell explained how a modest woodlot can sustainably supply firewood (6-7 cords annually) for heating indefinitely, with hardwoods like oak being more efficient than pine.
• Mitchell stressed that energy independence (solar, geothermal) and land security are foundational for long-term survival, urging action before disasters strike.

In Episode 5 of  "Prepare Tribe: Prepare, Protect, Provide," aired on April 9, Morgan Mitchell, one of the founders of Ark Seed Kits & Prepare Tribe, argued that disappearing into the wilderness might be the safest—and smartest—move. In his comprehensive shelter strategy course, Mitchell unveils the blueprint for constructing a self-sufficient, disaster-proof refuge far from urban chaos. From geothermal heating to solar supremacy, his insights challenge conventional prepping wisdom—especially his claim that "a simple 10-acre woodlot could be your key to indefinite survival." Mitchell urged prioritizing rural over suburban or urban sites, emphasizing natural defenses like elevation (to avoid floods) and distance from wildfire corridors. "If you have a choice between an inner urban area and a suburb, go to the suburb," he advised. "But rural beats both. The further you go, the safer you'll be." For urban dwellers stuck in apartments, he suggested creating "observation posts"—strategic vantage points to monitor threats. Moreover, extreme weather demands ingenuity. Mitchell shared geothermal systems for temperature control: "Once you get five feet underground, it's 55 degrees year-round. In -40°F winters or 100°F summers, that's a game-changer." For off-grid heating, he advocated outdoor wood boilers and passive solar design—angling windows south in cold climates, north in hot ones. Solar panels offer energy independence, especially when paired with battery storage. "Solar is king. If you can afford it, stop hesitating," Mitchell said.

A 10-acre woodlot isn't just property—it's a lifeline

A modest woodlot can sustain you indefinitely. "Six to seven cords of wood annually from 10 acres will heat a 2,500 sq ft home forever," he said, noting hardwoods like oak burn hotter and longer than pine. For those without land, he stresses portable solar blankets and generators as backups. Beyond location, Mitchell outlined a five-pillar security plan:

• Perimeter defense: Fencing, natural barriers (thorny shrubs) and "Beware of Dog" signs—"even if you don't own a dog."
• Surveillance: Cameras or low-tech lookouts.
• Fortifications: Reinforced windows with shatter-resistant film and safe rooms stocked with supplies.
• Self-defense: Firearms and non-lethal options like pepper spray.
• Preparedness: Backup power (solar generators) and evacuation plans. "Bugging in is likelier than bugging out," he noted. "But always have an exit strategy."

According to Mitchell "Energy is freedom. If you wait for disaster to strike, it's too late." Whether it's securing land, installing geothermal, or hoarding hardwood, his message is clear—self-reliance isn't paranoia. It's survival. For those ready to vanish into safety, Mitchell's strategies offer a roadmap. The wilderness, it seems, is the new frontier of security. "A 10-acre woodlot isn't just property—it's a lifeline. Pair it with solar and geothermal and you've got a fortress that outlasts crises," he said.

Want to learn more?

Disruptions can happen at any time, be it natural disasters, economic downturns or unexpected emergencies. But with the right preparation, you won't just survive, you will thrive. If you want to learn more about how you can be more resilient, want to view the presentations at your convenience or learn at your own pace, you can purchase the "Prepare Tribe: Prepare, Protect, Provide" package here. Upon purchase, you will get instant and unlimited access to all "Prepare Tribe" episodes and bonus items, including Advanced Food Preservation Technique video, Food Self-Reliance e-Book, free access to Morgan and Alex's 5-Day Challenge and 50 percent discount on the Backyard Seed Kit only on Health Ranger Store. Sources include: BrightU.com BrighteonUniversity.com HealthRangerStore.com

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