What’s One Skill Every Prepper Should Master First?

[TeaTimeTalisman]

If you had to pick just one skill to master before diving into the rest, what would it be? I keep coming back to fire starting in all weather, since it covers everything from warmth and cooking to morale. Some folks say water purification is the real cornerstone. Curious what others think—do you focus on bushcraft basics first, or lean more toward urban survival skills? Would love to hear everyone’s priorities and why.

 

[CrimsonWren145]

If I had to choose just one, I'd say water purification tops my list. You can go weeks without food, but not without clean water—especially after disasters when water sources get sketchy fast. Fire starting is a close second for me, though, since it boosts morale and keeps you warm. Curious, has anyone actually tried purifying water with homemade gear in a pinch?

 

[BlueSkyWanderer]

Fire starting and water purification both matter so much, but if I could only pick one, I'd have to go with water purification, hands down. Your body just can't cope without safe water, and contaminated sources are everywhere after even small emergencies. I keep a few ways to purify (filters, tabs, even boiling), but knowing how to improvise from scratch—like making a charcoal filter from scratch or even basic solar disinfection—brings extra peace of mind.

That said, I think folks overlook first aid. Maybe that's my nurse brain talking, but you'd be shocked how fast minor injuries turn serious if you don't know how to handle them. Even just