7 Items Most Likely to Be Stolen First in a Crisis—and How to Keep Them Safe

In times of crisis, chaos often leads to desperation. As resources become scarce, certain essential items quickly disappear from store shelves and, unfortunately, from the homes of those who are unprepared. Whether you're prepping for natural disasters, societal unrest, or other emergencies, it’s vital to know what items are most likely to be stolen and how to secure them. At Tactically Prepped, we’re all about equipping you with the knowledge and tools to stay ready for the unexpected.

Here are the seven items most likely to vanish first in a crisis—and how you can protect them.

---

1. Water

Why It’s Stolen: Clean water is essential for survival. In emergencies, municipal water supplies can become contaminated or cut off, making bottled water and filtration systems hot commodities.

How to Hide It:

• Diversify Storage Locations: Avoid keeping all your water in one easily accessible spot. Use different rooms, basements, or garages.
• Use Unmarked Containers: Store water in non-obvious containers like empty juice jugs or opaque storage bins.
• Invest in Filtration: Portable water filtration devices are small, easy to hide, and priceless in an emergency.

---

2. Food

Why It’s Stolen: Non-perishable food items like canned goods, freeze-dried meals, and bulk staples like rice and beans are survival essentials that get targeted quickly.

How to Hide It:

• Decoy Cupboards: Keep a small stash of food in a visible spot as a decoy while hiding the majority in inconspicuous places, like beneath furniture or in false-bottomed drawers.
• Seal and Store: Vacuum-seal food and store it in watertight containers to prevent spoilage and pests.

---

3. Medicine

Why It’s Stolen: Prescription medications, over-the-counter painkillers, and first aid supplies become invaluable when access to pharmacies is cut off.

How to Hide It:

• False Containers: Hide medicines in hollowed-out books or disguised containers, like fake soda cans.
• Rotate Stock: Keep your medicine stash updated and include essential items like tourniquets and emergency medical supplies.

---

4. Fuel

Why It’s Stolen: Gasoline, propane, and other fuels are crucial for powering vehicles, generators, and heating devices in emergencies.

How to Hide It:

• Lock It Down: Use locking fuel caps for vehicles and storage tanks.
• Diversify Storage: Store small amounts in portable fuel containers hidden in sheds or garages. Ensure proper safety precautions for fuel storage to prevent hazards.

---

5. Firearms and Ammunition

Why It’s Stolen: Guns and ammo are seen as protection and a means to secure other resources, making them a high-value target.

How to Hide It:

• Use Hidden Safes: Wall-mounted safes or floor safes disguised as air vents or furniture can keep your firearms secure.
• Separate Storage: Store firearms and ammunition in different locations to reduce the risk of losing both in a single theft.

---

6. Batteries and Power Sources

Why It’s Stolen: Power outages increase the demand for batteries, solar chargers, and portable power banks to keep devices running.

How to Hide It:

• Disguise in Plain Sight: Store batteries in everyday household items like old toy boxes or storage bins labeled for non-essentials.
• Use Renewable Options: Solar-powered chargers and hand-crank devices can provide power without relying on stockpiles.

---

7. Valuable Tools

Why It’s Stolen: Tools like multi-tools, axes, and saws are critical for self-reliance, especially in scenarios requiring home repairs or survival tasks.

How to Hide It:

• Diversify Locations: Split your tool stash between indoor and outdoor locations. Consider hiding some in your vehicle or a locked toolbox.
• Camouflage: Store tools in plain cardboard boxes or bags labeled for unrelated items, like "Holiday Decorations."

---

Final Thoughts: Stay Prepared, Stay Secure

In a crisis, the unprepared often turn to desperate measures. Knowing which items are most at risk and taking steps to secure them is key to ensuring your survival and peace of mind. At Tactically Prepped, we specialize in providing products and guidance to help you prepare for any situation.

If you’re ready to take your preparedness to the next level, explore our collection of survival gear and tools. Don’t leave your safety to chance—stay ready with Tactically Prepped.