My family knows somewhat about my preparedness, and my friends who pay attention know I always carry some gear with me. I've impressed my new sister-in-law many times because of this. But for the most part I live a secret preparedness life.

I don't advertise. Being a young woman, and having a slight frame, most people assume that I don't know how to do the things I know how to do. I don't show them. There is a BOB bag in the linen closet that my husband hasn't even looked through. I don't even share this community with people I know. I guess I don't really trust their reactions.

However, if you want to help your community become more prepared, just share some information with them on stuff they need to get for themselves. Post a list somewhere, maybe one that is modified to be family-friendly or office-friendly. Don't tell them what you have.

You should also be prepared, when sharing information with people, that they might appreciate it but still do nothing.