Overview

When the unexpected strikes it's always good to be prepared. Whether it's keeping an extra set of batteries in the kitchen drawer to deal with a blackout, or remembering to bring the waterproof matches while camping, being prepared is one of the most valuable human traits that keeps us safe when adversity strikes. Embrace your creativity and share the things that you've made so that you can "be prepared" for whatever challenges life may throw at you.

Projects like keeping a fresh water cache in the basement for places that have earthquakes, a set of warm clothes and canned food in the attic in places that can flood, a backup power supply in areas where the power goes out, or simply good ole fashioned camping skills that help make our time in the wilderness just a bit more comfortable are all eligible.

Go ahead, show us how you've prepared for life's unexpected challenges, and share the unique things you've made to make sure that you keep you and your family safe no matter what mother nature may throw at you. We'll learn hopefully learn something, share what we've made, and maybe even win some cool stuff along the way.

Ready to start? Click here!


Multiple entries are accepted, but each entrant can only win one prize. Contest is open to entries from US, Canada [excluding Quebec], UK, China, Belgium, the Netherlands, Australia,  Colombia, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, India, and Denmark<. Contest closes for entries at 11:59pm PT, November 14, 2012.

The winner(s) will be solely responsible for complying with any and all applicable statutes, laws (including, without limitation, common law, if applicable), rules and regulations and for bearing any personal income tax, VAT, withholding taxes, customs duties, or other taxes, fees, insurance, surcharges or other costs relating to receiving, claiming or collecting any prize.

The Be Prepared Contest is closed.

Grand Prize

16 Prizes

Grand Prize

One Grand Prize winner will receive:
  • a DeLorme Earthmate PN-60 Portable GPS Navigator,
  • a Leatherman 830040 New Wave Multi-Tool,
  • and an Instructables Prize Pack.

First Prize

Five First Prize winners will receive:
  • a Black Diamond Apollo LED Lantern,
  • a Pelican i1015 iPhone Case,
  • and an Instructables Prize Pack.

Runner Up Prize

Ten Runner Up winners will receive:
  • a Petzl E97 Tikka Plus 2 headlamp,
  • a Seal Line E-Case Waterproof Pouch,
  • and an Instructables Prize Pack.
How It Works

Write an Instructable

Create a new Instructable that fits the guidelines outlined in the contest description above. To be eligible, Instructables must be published between Oct 3, 2012 and Nov 14, 2012 (11:59pm PT).

Enter

Upon publishing your Instructable you'll see checkboxes for open contests. Select Be Prepared Contest. If you have entries currently eligible for entry, it will also show up by clicking "Enter this Contest" on the right side of this page.

Accepting

Entries are accepted by Instructables staff within one business day Monday - Friday. What matters is the submission time, not acceptance time.

Judging

A panel of judges made up of Instructables staff and respected members of the community rate the finalists. The averages of the ratings determine the winners.

Winners

When the winners are decided they will be notified and announced here on the contest page.