A Practical Guide to EMP Protection

Electromagnetic pulses are bursts of electromagnetic energy. They can be natural occurrences or man-made.

EMP’s can damage electronic equipment, and at high energy levels, a powerful EMP event can cause great damage to physical objects.

EMPs do not cause harm to animals or plants, but they can cause large-scale electronic system failures by interacting with power lines, metals, conductive materials, and electronics, resulting, in turn, in power spikes that can damage and destroy equipment.

Quick Navigation EMP Effects on Technology EMP Effects on Cars What Does an EMP Destroy? What to Protect from an EMP or Solar Flare What is Nesting? What is an E1 Phase? What is an E2 Phase? What is an E3 Phase? How Long Will this Last? What Electronics Would Survive an EMP? How Do You Protect Electronics from an EMP Attack? Military Grade EMP Protection 7 Ways to Protect Yourself Against EMP Threats Basic DIY EMP Protection You Can Try at Home

Top 10 EMP Protection Devices 1. EMP Shield – Vehicle EMP Protection 12 Volt DC for Car and Truck (DC-12V-WV) 2. Mission Darkness Revelation EMP Shield for Generators and Extra-Large Electronics 3. Mini EMP Defender Vehicle Protection and Surge Shield 12V DC Car Protector 4. Faraday Defense 10pc Kit NEST-Z Faraday Bag EMP/Solar-Flare Prepper Ultra Thick 5. BLACKOUT Faraday Cage EMP Bags 6. EMP Cover EMP Bag Kits 7. Tech Protect Faraday/EMP Bag 8. Bad Wolf Max EMP Defender 12 Volt 9. Plug in Outlet Surge Protection Lightning Shield and EMP Protector 10. Atmosure 1 Yard Copper Faraday Fabric 11. HEMP/NEMP Powerline Filters Other Products for EMP Protection 1. HEMP/NEMP Powerline Filters 2. Pulse Current Injection Test E1 and E2 3. RF Shielded Racks Final Thoughts

EMP threats are most likely caused by solar flares, lightning strikes, or nuclear explosions in orbit.

It is likely that the nuclear explosion will cause the most widespread damage to all of those events, as astronomical gamma-ray bursts with large enough E1 components are extremely rare.

E1 is the component of a nuclear EMP that can destroy smaller electrical items not connected to extremely long power transmission lines.

According to the International Electrotechnical Commission, an EMP consists of three components: E1, E2, and E3.

E1 pulses are very fast components of nuclear EMPs. E1 is a very brief but intense electromagnetic field that can quickly induce very high voltages in electrical conductors. 

When a nuclear bomb explodes in the upper atmosphere, one of the byproducts is a very powerful E1 electromagnetic pulse that covers millions of square miles.

The pulse induces an electrical charge in any conductor of electricity, and if the pulse is strong enough, electronic components can be damaged.

EMP Effects on Technology

An EMP can damage virtually any electronic technology that is not shielded (or “hardened “) against it, such as:

• Computers, phones, and tablets
• Transformers and substations in power grids
• Equipment for radio and communications
• Automobiles, airplanes, boats, and trains
• Data centers and routing equipment: Internet systems
• Refrigerators, stoves, and all appliances
• Generators

Really, anything electronic is vulnerable.

EMP Effects on Cars

Because we rely so much on our cars for our daily lives, let’s take a look at what an EMP might do to them.

It’s extremely difficult to predict what kind of impact any EMP event would have on a specific vehicle or class of vehicles. Due to the fact that a number of factors can affect an outcome, including:

• (How) your vehicle is oriented (what direction it faces) with respect to the nuclear explosion.

• It would also depend on the height of the detonation, the gamma ray output, the distance and azimuth to the detonation, and the strength of the Earth’s magnetic field between your location and that of the detonation.

• It even depends on whether the car is running, moving, or parked. When it is in a garage, what kind of material is it (metal is best because it is conductive) and is there any electrical wiring inside to act as an EMP antenna.

In recent years, some tests have been conducted on vehicles, but the results have been inconclusive, and we could say that modern vehicles are susceptible to EMP because of the 100s of microprocessors they contain.

But they are also getting more shielding against electromagnetic interference (you can’t have your cell phone ringing turn off an airbag circuit for example) so does that help reduce the risk?

What Does an EMP Destroy?

It is widely believed that an EMP will kill almost anything.

Basically, it is anything with a microchip, plugged into the grid, or both. Some people don’t understand that something as simple as an LED flashlight (which is pretty much the only type of flashlight available nowadays) won’t work after an EMP.

LED stands for “Light Emitting Diode.” Since LEDs are microchips in themselves, they would not survive an EMP.

Even simple items like blenders and refrigerators, which often do not have microchips, will stop working after an EMP or Solar Flare because they are plugged in/connected to the grid.

Anything plugged into a wall outlet in the house is vulnerable to a solar flare or EMP. A blender that does not have a microchip would be extremely likely to survive an EMP or Solar Flare if it were not plugged in.

How Much Can One EMP Bomb Do?

Approximately 1/3 of the US will be affected by an EMP bomb blast if it goes off 30 miles above the ground. As soon as the bomb reaches 120 miles in altitude, the effects of the E1 phase of an EMP spread 2,000 miles wide, covering over 75% of the United States.

However, if the bomb goes off at 300 miles above the earth, it covers all 48 lower states of the USA, as well as large parts of Canada and Mexico.

The closer you are to the center of the EMP bomb, the higher the voltage that affects electronics and items connected to the grid.

Does an EMP Permanently Destroy Your Electronics?

Specific electronics, machinery, and generator controls can be temporarily or permanently disabled by an EMP attack.

One must consider the device itself, and the other must consider the power grid. Although your device may work (for a while), without the power to recharge, it is as good as dead.

What to Protect from an EMP or Solar Flare

We recommend the following items be protected in case of an EMP:

What is Nesting?

Nesting involves placing one faraday bag inside another, forming two layers. People often ask why this is necessary.

Super EMP technology has been developed recently and has the ability to penetrate more shielding than a normal EMP bomb.

The biggest difference with a Super EMP weapon is that since it penetrates shielding better, it requires more shielding to protect against it.

Making the EMP bags twice as thick would be one way to accomplish this. Nevertheless, when the material used for the EMP bags is double as thick, it loses its flexibility and becomes breakable.

Since they are flexible, they can withstand years of heavy use without breaking. The bags are made of two layers rather than being double thick, thereby meeting the requirement for protecting from a super EMP attack.

There are many sizes of EMP bags due to this reason.

Two small bags will fit inside one medium bag, for example. Also, two medium bags will fit inside one large bag. Likewise, 2 Large bags will fit inside 1 X-Large bag, and so on.

What is an E1 Phase?

An EMP consists of three phases, the first of which is called E1. E2 and E3 refer to the second and third parts, respectively.

The E1 and E3 parts of an EMP bomb are considered to be the most dangerous or destructive. To protect items from radiation, Faraday EMP bags are essential.

E1 – The time duration of this phase is about 1 – 5 NANOseconds, whew, that’s fast! At this point, the gamma radiation generated by the bomb cascades down like a blanket onto the earth when it explodes.

The bomb releases electrons as it cascades down, and they are charged with energy from the explosion.

As soon as that energy reaches electronics, whether they are plugged in, turned off, in pockets, on tables, in the air, or wherever, they are short-circuited and destroyed.

Microchips cannot be repaired, so this is extremely damaging. Keep these electronics in a Faraday bag to prevent them from getting damaged.

Energy simply flows around the EMP bag and continues on its way to the ground. Because of the size of these bags, grounding is not necessary.

Due to their size, they won’t accumulate a great deal of energy where grounding would be necessary. A 20ft metal shipping container would require grounding because it would absorb so much energy.

What is an E2 Phase?

The E2 phase occurs immediately after the E1 phase. It lasts anywhere from 1 microsecond to 1 second. The initial energy surges through the national power grid.

It’s dangerous because it can arc, or jump, from one contact to another.

As an example, if there is a blender on a countertop about 4 inches away from the outlet, but it is not plugged into the outlet, the energy can still reach the blender. The energy can jump about 6 inches, according to research.

A house’s wiring is connected to the power grid. Through the grid, the energy enters the house, goes to the outlet, and jumps from the outlet to the blender, shorting it out.

During the Carrington Event in the 1800s, some people saw electricity “dancing” across the floor.

Also, some people reported telegraph machines exploding, telegraph wires catching on fire, and items short-circuiting instantly. The risk of fires is also present with this.

The wires and cables in the United States are better insulated than 150+ years ago, but that doesn’t mean fires won’t start from the surge of electricity.

What is an E3 Phase?

The last big pulse from the EMP blast is E3. It lasts between 10 seconds and a few minutes, much longer than the other phases.

This is similar to a geomagnetic storm or solar flare.This energy is distributed throughout the entire national grid.

In addition, an EMP attack could happen, for example on the east coast, and only the east coast would be affected by the E1.

E2 and E3 phases would cross the national grid, power lines, telephone lines, rail tracks, and other long metal conductors all the way to the West Coast, where they would destroy the grid there as well.

It is this energy that destroys power systems, that sends power across the country and gives us our technological advantages.

At this point, life is mostly like living in the 1700s again. At least for those who don’t use Faraday Bags to protect their electronics from such an event.

How Long Will this Last?

According to experts as well as the EMP Commission, there is a lot of evidence supporting that this can last anywhere from 6 months at its shortest to over 10 years! Even 6 months is long enough for an entire country to go to ruin.

According to Peter Pry, Chief of Staff of the EMP Commission, said that after 1 year of the EMP event happening that upwards of 90% of the US population could be dead from starvation, disease, dehydration and other problems. That’s A LOT of people.

An interesting note is that coal-fired power plants are actually somewhat resilient to EMP attacks because of the older, more simple technology it takes to run them.

Generally speaking, a coal-fired power plant has about 6 months’ worth of coal on hand. So in the best-case scenario, certain areas would still have some power, after repairs of course to other infrastructure, for about 6 months.

In the end, even with coal-fired power plants, the real time frame should be considered no less than 2 years to get to somewhat “normal” life as far as energy in the power grid goes.

What Electronics Would Survive an EMP?

Solid-state electronics are generally attacked by an EMP, so items using electronic circuits cease to function. It could take months to repair and restore the electrical grid.

Despite the fact that an EMP can be quite scary, simple electronics without reliable state-of-the-art controls will most likely survive one. 

Let’s take a look at some specific examples:

Solar Panels

At the very least, solar panels that are operating and wired up will suffer some damage.

The nuclear EMP may not destroy the solar panel, but it will certainly reduce its functionality and effectiveness. It should survive just fine!

Non-electric Appliances

An EMP will not affect appliances like a fireplace, solar oven, power tools or generators.

Even after an EMP blasts through your area, these non-electric appliances may still work because they are not necessarily operated by solid-state electronics. 

Manual Appliances

Additionally, manual appliances are EMP-proof.  To perform regular electrical tasks, make sure you have manual items at home or at work.

With a hand-powered coffee percolator, pasta maker, manual mixer, can opener, or specific battery-powered devices, you can do a lot of cooking. 

Vintage Electronics

Vintage electronic components do not use solid-state grids. You’re in luck if your old radio or television uses vacuum tubes. Your old TV was ridiculed, but now who is laughing!

Small, Portable Electronics

Put this in the “maybe” category.

It is possible for small electronic appliances like mobile devices to survive an EMP attack if they are housed in concrete buildings. Nevertheless, it will depend on the location, severity, and type of EMP.

How Do You Protect Electronics from an EMP Attack?

In the short and long run, an EMP attack is a bad news for civilization.

Even so, an EMP can be survived, but you need to be adequately prepared because there may be little to no warning. 

Aside from the usual survival tips, such as having food, water, and a first-aid kit handy, working electronic devices can keep you connected to what is happening.

Therefore, keep all your electronic devices and appliances in good working order. You can shield or protect your electronics in a few different ways, but always be cautious.

How to Get Prepared

Both experts and the EMP Commission agree that this can last anywhere from 6 months at the shortest to more than 10 years at the longest! Even 6 months is enough time for an entire country to go bankrupt.

Deputy Chief of Staff Peter Pry said that after one year of an EMP event happening, upwards of 90% of the US population could be dead from starvation, disease, dehydration, and other problems. That’s A LOT of people.

Coal-fired power plants are actually somewhat resistant to EMP attacks due to their older, simpler technology. A coal-fired power plant generally has six months’ worth of coal on hand.

The best-case scenario would be that certain areas would still have power, after repairing other infrastructure, for about 6 months.

In the end, even with coal-fired power plants, it will take no less than two years to get to a “normal” level of energy in the power grid.

The first thing to do to protect against an EMP is to get specific EMP protection. That’s it. Putting items into a faraday bag is the easiest way to protect them from an EMP attack.

The inevitable question is: “How will I protect my cell phone if I use it throughout the day?”?

Generally, we can answer that question by asking: “What network will a cell phone work on if the power grid goes out?”.

The answer to that question is none. Cell phones, laptops, and TVs are the most commonly used electronics in the United States, so people tend to focus on them too much.

Too often, people fail to understand that they don’t have to protect their cell phones because there will be very little use for them after an EMP.

In the aftermath of an EMP, there are many other electronics that can be absolutely life-changing.

The most important item needed to continue using electronics after an electromagnetic pulse is a generator. After an electromagnetic pulse, generators must be shielded within a faraday bag so that they can still be used.

Generators come in many types, such as gas, diesel, natural gas, propane, air turbine, water turbine, and solar.

After years of research, solar generators are by far the best solution for running large amounts of equipment during long-term power outages.

In addition to requiring no maintenance, solar generators run for years while remaining efficient, store energy for years, and have an endless supply of energy to fill them back up. 

12 Key Areas of Preparedness

These areas need to be addressed in order to be completely safe and ready in the event of an EMP. EMP bags are the first step to protecting almost every one of the Key Areas of Preparedness.

Here are the 12 Key Areas of Preparedness for an EMP:

1. Water    
2. Power   
3. Security   
4. Food   
5. Medical   
6. Shelter   
7. Waste Treatment   
8. Communication   
9. Community   
10. Transportation   
11. Entertainment   
12. Bank/Barter

Humans will die after 3 days without water, so being prepared for that is imperative. The only way to get power after a power outage is through a generator, such as a solar generator.

In every long-term emergency, there is always looting, fighting, stealing, and worse, so having firearms, plenty of ammo, and particularly training on how to use them is ideal for preparedness.

During an emergency, most people use 3x or more energy than they normally do, and consume about half the calories they normally eat.

Medical tools and equipment, such as first aid kits, will be very useful since a cut that gets sepsis can kill people; but medical training will be a crucial skill.

Many people overlook the importance of shelter because they intend to stay where they are, but people don’t know what they don’t know until they are in a crisis, so alternative shelter is vital. (For instance, since an EMP in phase E2 can cause fires, if the house burns down someone needs another shelter they can quickly grab and take somewhere else).

A lack of sanitation is the #1 killer of people in emergencies; it is critical to properly dispose of human waste and to stay clean.

Being able to communicate within a family and especially a community is ideal, and that means HAM radios as well as a group of like-minded people you can talk to.

Transport is vital to surviving long-term emergencies, as people may need to travel to other places.

As soon as the rush of the event has passed, people need enlightenment and entertainment. In order to relieve stress and think clearly, books, movies (solar generator, TV and DVD player), activities, games, and so on will be essential.

Banking and bartering are also important; money in a bank account exists only digitally until it is withdrawn.

Within a few weeks of an EMP attack, paper money will be worthless. Gold and silver will also have their place but in the wrong way.

Silver, for example, currently costs $18 per troy ounce but will be worth 100x more after an EMP. After an EMP, as a society, we will no longer place value in dollars and money.

Therefore, an 18-dollar silver coin now may only buy one can of beans in the future. However, a can of beans now costs only $0.70.

Therefore, it is wiser to buy beans and everything else in the Key Areas of Preparedness first and then get gold and silver later.

Military Grade EMP Protection

Protecting your critical electronics has never been easier. Faraday EMP bags are designed to protect against damaging electromagnetism.

It is impossible to predict the size, strength, or proximity of an EMP, but Tech Protect Faraday bags will protect electronics from harmful gamma radiation and electrical current that destroy electronics.

7 Ways to Protect Yourself Against EMP Threats

In 1859, there was a solar flare equivalent to 10 billion atomic bombs, causing a massive geomagnetic storm.

At the time, there was no huge power grid, but there was a network of telegraph lines. Telegraphs were rendered inoperable by the geomagnetic storm.

Telegraph operators suffered physical shocks from sparking lines and telegraph paper caught fire. In today’s world, EMP threats go beyond natural ones.

The U.S. detonated a hydrogen bomb in the early 1960s that disrupted electricity 900 miles away! A solar flare and bomb caused EMPs (electromagnetic pulses) that disrupted everything electrical.

Only recently did China threaten to use EMP.

Can you imagine what would happen today if there was an EMP? Here are 7 tips for protecting yourself against EMP threats.

1. Alternative Fuels

Consider investing in a generator to prepare for an EMP. A generator can help for a while, depending on where you live.

Do you live in a rural area that gets cold during the winter? If you have enough fuel, a generator could help you get through the first winter. You won’t be able to fill up at the gas station after an EMP!

Make sure the components of your solar-powered generator are protected in a Faraday Cage. Additionally, some gasoline-powered generators have electrical components that need to be protected.

2. Equip Your Vehicle

A man-made or natural EMP disaster will cause your car to stop working unless you drive an old classic. What is the purpose of equipping your vehicle? If you’re in it when the EMP strikes.

It’s always a good idea to have emergency equipment in your car in case of an emergency. What should it be equipped with?

• A good pair of walking shoes for every member of the family
• Drinking water in an emergency
• Protein bars that are heat-resistant and shelf-stable
• Bicycles that fold up
• Mylar emergency blankets
• Batteries and flashlights
• Everything except the bike should be stored in a large backpack. In case you need to leave the vehicle fast, you can use the bike. Put on your emergency backpack and head out.

3. Think Analog

Digital is meaningless in a world without electricity. Consider investing in analog devices, such as a solar-powered, hand-cranked AM/FM weather radio.

Is this another good device? It is a mercury-free analog thermometer. The thermometer functions as a shake-down thermometer, but without the dangerous mercury.

Analog clocks are also an option.

4. Rethink Your Appliances

While you’ll miss your microwave and toaster oven, there are some decent non-electric alternatives.  Here are a few things you’ll need:

Manual-Style Can Opener

Make sure your wrists are in shape! After an EMP, electric can openers will no longer work. Get yourself a manual can opener if you don’t already own one.

Consider buying two. This can opener will come in handy. You’ll need it to open all the canned goods in the basement.

Solar Oven

Using clever fold-out mirrors, these small ovens harness the sun’s energy. In a solar oven, you can bake a casserole or boil some water.

Hand-Crank Flashlights

The flashlights work by winding them up. Keep a few of these in your Faraday Cage.

5. A Family Survival Manual

EMPs are something no one wants to consider, much less discuss with their children. You’ll be glad you did this when disaster strikes and your children know where to find you.

Prepare a family survival manual and discuss it once a month. Secret meeting places for the family should be included in the plan. In the school setting, siblings should find each other and stay together.

In case of a catastrophic event, your kids should carry a letter signed by you that allows them to leave school and meet you at a prearranged location.

Include your meeting spot and your family emergency plan in the letter. As much as possible, stockpile any medications you need.

During times of emergency, fire can pose a risk, so make sure that your family plan includes fire extinguishers throughout the house. Teach the kids how and when to use them.

6. A Faraday Cage

A Faraday Cage protects small electronics from EMPs. This helpful guide provides more information about electronic protection.

A Faraday Cage is a small box lined with several layers of tin foil. You can also use an old microwave oven. Another option is a metal garbage can.

What should you put in a Faraday cage?

• CB radio
• Walkie-talkies
• Small medical devices

Even though an EMP won’t destroy your batteries, it’s a good idea to keep some in your Faraday Cage nonetheless.

Consider storing some old cellphones. In the event of an EMP, it will be hard to get a new cellphone because everyone will need one.

7. Consider Your Location

This is a tough question, but one worth considering. You might want to consider moving your family to the west coast. Why? Nuclear reactors are far fewer in the West than in the east.

The United States has 58 nuclear power plants. Their combined reactor capacity is 96. During an EMP, we won’t have access to electricity to cool down the reactors.It’s a big problem.

There’s a huge risk of explosion in the reactors without cooling. After the 2011 tsunami and earthquake in Japan, this happened. The reactor buildings exploded.

Nuclear fallout is released into the air when a reactor explodes. Depending on the wind conditions, radiation can spread far and wide. If that happens, you’ll be glad you live far from a nuclear plant!

Basic DIY EMP Protection You Can Try at Home

You don’t have an EMP bag or case? That’s unfortunate.

Here are some DIY tools that can help.

Use Tinfoil.

Tinfoil can be used to create a homemade Faraday cage (more on Faraday cages later). Wrap the chosen device in a cloth, paper or any other non-conductive insulation and add about three layers of tinfoil with no visible gaps.

In order for this method to work, the shell must be well-grounded.

Use a Steel Garbage Can with a Lid.

Line the can with cloth or cardboard so your electronics won’t be affected by an EMP. Put duct tape on the lid to keep it from falling off.

A Metal Roof or Solar Paneled House.

Metal roofs or solar panels should provide some protection from an EMP, but they need to be well-grounded.       

Put Devices in the Microwave.

Microwaves generally operate at a frequency of 2.45 GHz. The shielding uses non-ionizing radiation to absorb energy from your food. Interactions between water molecules release kinetic energy as heat.

Microwaves have glass windows with small holes in a metal screen that acts as a Faraday cage, which traps energy inside the walls.

In the event of an EMP attack, you will be protected when heating food, but you will also be protected when placing electronics inside. 

To test the effectiveness, place your electronics or small appliances in your microwave (turned off) and see if you receive a signal. Do not use the microwave with the devices inside!

The Real Solution- a Faraday Cage.

A Faraday cage, bag, or case, named after its founder, Michael Faraday, will help distribute electromagnetic radiation to the outer surface so that no charge is created inside the enclosure.

Effectively, it is an EMP shield designed to redirect power from the ground. The cage will protect devices from damaging currents.

There are many kits or templates for EMP-proof boxes available online, but a professional cage may be worth the investment.

EMP shielding reduces the coupling of radio waves, electromagnetic fields, and electrostatic fields; which pose potential threats to electronic systems.

It is not so difficult to prepare EMP protection for your electronics or appliances that only government agencies can do it.

It’s likely that you won’t need the protection, but you have to decide if you are the type of person who would risk it.

Take the necessary steps to protect yourself from devastating future events, regardless of whether you use a DIY solution or a professional EMP bag.

List of EMP Protection Products You Can Buy

1. EMP Shield – Vehicle EMP Protection 12 Volt DC for Car and Truck (DC-12V-WV)

I found this one really easy to install. You just have to find a spot to put it in and you can get it running in less than 15 minutes. The wires look high quality considering the price of the product.

• Protection from EMP: his device can protect your car and truck from all phases of EMP (E1, E2, & E3)
• Lightning Protection: 100% Lightning Guarantee Backed By a $25,000 Insurance Policy
• Solar Flares: Up to 228,000 Amps
• Military Testing: MIL-STD-188-125-1, MIL-STD-461G, CS115, CS116, CS117, RS105 MIL-STD-464C
• Industry Leading 10 Year Warranty, If it fails at any time during the 10 year warranty, the company will replace it for $50. No questions asked! Backed by $25,000 of Insurance

2. Mission Darkness Revelation EMP Shield for Generators and Extra-Large Electronics

The product looks larger than expected but it’s definitely not a problem. It has this metal plate on the bottom which makes it feel a bit heavy. Learning how to properly close it up is easy.

I suggest you take your time to seal it right. That’s one way to make sure that it’ll work properly.

• FARADAY BAG – Specifically designed for EMP and CME protection, it is also used by law enforcement, forensic investigators, and for personal safety. Fits most compact portable gas or solar generators, compact solar panels, computer towers, radios, electric media equipment, smart home appliances, power tools, lights, and other large devices.
• A MIL-STD-188-125 CERTIFIED EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) PROTECTION! Tested and certified to MIL STD 188-125 specifications by Keystone Compliance (report available upon request). Assists electronic devices to remain functional in the event of an EMP or CME.
• RF Signal Blocking – 5th Generation device shielding. Blocks WiFi (2.4 and 5GHz), Bluetooth, cell signals including 5G networks, GPS, RFID, and radio signals with attenuation of 90dB from low MHz to 40GHz. Shielding for EMI, EMR, and EMF.
• Large capacity with interior dimensions of 30″L x 24″W x 22″H. (Can accommodate taller objects if full bag width/length is not used). 
• Portable – folds down to 30″L x 24″W x 4″H for storage.
• Three layers of high-shielding TitanRF Faraday Fabric on all sides. Double-stitched seams. The outer materials are made of ballistic nylon that are water-resistant. Unshielded deep zipper compartment on front side. Agency/department branding pocket with evidence card slot on the back side. A removable aluminum base plate in a separate zipper compartment provides structure and support for oversized and heavy items. Velcro closure on double roll.

3. Mini EMP Defender Vehicle Protection and Surge Shield 12V DC Car Protector

This unit is much smaller than most of the units reviewed on this list. Despite its size, it actually feels sturdy and well-made. Installation is pretty easy since the box came with a set of instructions.

• It is the smallest, fastest, and most affordable device on the market.
• Component tested to meet MIL-STD, RoHS, UL, IP68, ISO, JASO standards…
• With a rating of 120,000 Amps
• Simple 2 wire installation with status indicators
• We require every product to pass three separate EM and ES tests before it leaves our facility. Even perform a water submersion test
• It comes with mounting screws, zip ties, Velcro, and a free Faraday cage bag
• Business owned and operated by service-disabled veterans
• With a 5-year warranty made in America

4. Faraday Defense 10pc Kit NEST-Z Faraday Bag EMP/Solar-Flare Prepper Ultra Thick

The bags feel thick and well-made. The sizes are good too; there are actually a variety of sizes for your laptop, phones, and even hard drives. I didn’t have a hard time opening and keeping them sealed.

• 10PC PREMIUM PREPPER KIT: 5 x [5”x7”], 3 x [8”x10”], 2 x [12”x18”]. The Nest-Z kits are designed to nest smaller faraday bags inside larger ones. NESTing offers enhanced protection by placing multiple metallic layers between electronic devices and the threat of EMP, HEMP and CME events.
• CYBERSHIELDING: Industry standard 7.0 mil faraday protection bag with heavy duty ziplock. 5 ply MIL-SPEC electro-shielding bags featuring 2 layers of metal and moisture barrier for maximum protection. With EMI attenuation of 40 db.

5. BLACKOUT Faraday Cage EMP Bags

These bags work really well for me. Their quality isn’t bad. In fact, even if I’ve been using them for quite some time, they have not been ripped. The assortment of sizes is nice too.

• The THICKEST MIL SPEC FARADAY CAGE EMP BLACKOUT BAGS on the market with a heavy-duty ZIP-LOCK
• Ultra-thick (around .40mm) and comprehensive
• Attenuation is approximately 50 dB
• Shipped in a rigid container
• Five-piece kit: Qty 1 (15″ x 18″), two (8″ x 11″), two (5″ x 7″) – Interior Dimensions

6. EMP Cover EMP Bag Kits

I like the product’s plastic sealer strip. It does a great job of keeping it properly sealed. It’s very well made and appears and works as described.

• Four 10 inch wide x 12 inch tall EMP Cover shielding kits. (Size is internal, usable space.)
• Multiple layers of protection create a 45 dB shield against EMP energy. The closed bag creates a Faraday cage environment and is IP66-rated for water and dust protection.
• Kit includes moisture-removing desiccant pouches for extra protection for stored electronics.
• Silver bags are not all the same. NASA tests have shown a level of protection up to 49 dB, and an average of 45 dB. It is 10 times more protection than is required by the highest military specification (MIL-PRF-81705 Type I). Bags that meet the military standard provide only one tenth of the protection you need. That’s why EMP Cover shielding bags go “Beyond Mil-Spec.”
• Additionally, some vendors sell regular anti-static bags as EMP protection. Anti-static bags create a very weak Faraday cage, only about 1/80th of what you need.
• EMP cover bags can protect against strong EMP attacks. To be protected against an EMP attack, you need 45 dB of shielding: enough to block a high-altitude blast using the largest warheads. 
• Your backup electronics must be protected against dust, rain, dirt, oils, and other nastiness.
• Water and oil resistance comes in a strong and lightweight package with EMP Cover bags. Despite weighing only ounces, each bag has a weight of 40 pounds. More than 20 pounds of tensile strength. Puncture resistance. Backup electronics can be stored in a ready-bag or in your car with ease.
• This material is not intended to keep your cell phone safe from tracking or hacking. It blocks most cell phone signals, but not if you are in the path of a high-power directional signal. 

7. Tech Protect Faraday/EMP Bag

The bags feel thick and super durable. Considering their price, I don’t think they’ll disappoint you.

• One EMP Bag is included in this offer. Other bag sizes are available: 8″x8″ – 8″x16″ – 16″x18″ – 20″x30″ and 32″x38″ and meet US Military Specification MIL-B-81705-Rev-C <40 db. The bags can be nested one inside the other (nesting) for ultimate protection of almost 90 decibels. 
• With Tech Protect EMP/Faraday bags, your electronics will be protected from EMPs, HEMPs, Super EMPs, solar flares, and dangerous electrical surges.
• The bags are designed to block EMPs, not cell phone signals. One bag must be placed inside another to block cell phone signals.
• Zip Lock Top, waterproof/watertight, 735lb. Tensile Strength, 38 pounds. Puncture-resistant, insulated and conductive. The most affordable EMP/Faraday bags available on the market.
• Protect your GPS, Hand-held Radios, LED Flashlights, DVD/Blu-ray Player, Red Dot/Battery Lit Optics, Night Vision, Infrared Optics, Chain Saw with Electronic Ignition, Hard Drives, Battery Chargers, Key Fobs (Car & Home), Generators, USB Drives, Cords with large Power adapters, Phones, Tablet, Computer, TV, and much more.

8. Bad Wolf Max EMP Defender 12 Volt

I thought I was going to have a hard time installing this one, but no. It’s actually the other way around. It’s a two-wire installation. The red wire of the device goes to the positive terminal of your battery while the black wire goes to the negative terminal.

• The most advanced DC surge protection device available
• 500,000 Amp surge rating (Highest surge rated SPD on the market)
• Component tested to meet MIL-STD, RoHS, UL, IP64, ISO, JASO standards and more…
• Every product must pass 3 separate EM and ES tests before ever leaving our facility. Simple 2 wire installation with status indicator lights
• Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business and Made in America with a 5 year warranty

9. Plug in Outlet Surge Protection Lightning Shield and EMP Protector

At first, I thought this would be a nice addition to RVs or portable generators. However, it’s not recommended to be used in a wet location. You may just end up damaging your devices if you do.

• Plug and play (No professional installation required)
• Rated for 15A load current and 120kA (120,000A) surge current
• Lighting, CME, ESD, and EMP damage are prevented
• Guards against surges from Line to Neutral, Line to Ground, and Neutral to Ground.
• Tested to meet MIL-STD, RoHS, UL, ISO, JASO standards and more…

10. Atmosure 1 Yard Copper Faraday Fabric

I realized that you can make this product work well if you wrap your devices properly. And the only downside I found? The fabric frays horribly.

• Upgrade your health and privacy protection with our Copper Faraday Fabric! It is highly effective in blocking your wireless gadgets and protecting you from potentially harmful frequencies.
• This faraday fabric is the same one that the military and law enforcement use to block signals from WiFi routers, mobile phones, Bluetooth connections, GPS, RFIDs, and more.
• DIY ENCLOSURE — Easily make your own Faraday cage with this 1-yard fabric. Simply cut and sew to fit your smartphone, laptop, car keys, or cards.
• SLEEK COLORS – This Faraday EMF protection slipcover features 50% black, 50% copper colors. Its subtle style and lightweight design make it perfect for everyday use.

Other Products for EMP Protection

1. HEMP/NEMP Powerline Filters

Holland Shielding Systems’ 8080 HEMP/NEMP powerline filters are capable of surviving PCI tests E1, E2 and E3 while significantly exceeding the shielding effectiveness of MIL-STD-188-125.

The filters were designed by R&D specialists to meet the highest shielding demands with an insertion loss of 100 dB @ 9 kHz and 120 dB @ 20 kHz.

To ensure that the filters meet high standards, the company tests them with in-house E1/E2 testing facility.

Due to the fact that they are the only powerline filter supplier in the world with an E1 and E2 pulse tester in-house, they can test and deliver the filters quickly.

Features

• Voltage and current ratings: 230/440 VAC with 16 A – 200 A current (other ratings on request)
• Multiphase or single phase applications
• Up to 100 dB at 9 kHz
• Low residual pulse current
• The company’s in-house testing facility enables fast development and delivery

2. Pulse Current Injection Test E1 and E2

At Holland Shielding System, they conduct daily tests that simulate the EMP impact of nuclear bombs. They also use these tests to ensure that their EMP-protected powerline filters (8080-series) are protected against EMP attacks.

The company also offers to test your EMP filters to ensure that they will survive an EMP.

With their E1 and E2 Pulse Current Injection (PCI) test facility they will test your filter, that will be subject to a pulse of 5 kA with a risetime of 20 ns and 50 % at 500 ns (E1) and 250 A wit a risetime of 1.5 µs and 50 % at 4000 µs (E2).

Tests will be conducted in accordance with MIL-STD-188-125.

You will receive a comprehensive test report after the tests.

3. RF Shielded Racks

Metal cabinets, racks (19″), and shielded enclosures. Increasing awareness of IEMI and EMP attacks makes shielded racks and/or datacenters more necessary as the threat of these attacks becomes more real.

Holland Shielding offers shielded racks that can be fully customized to meet your requirements.

Applications

• Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI)
• TEMPEST
• Eavesdropping
• Solar storms
• EMP attacks
• MIL-STD-188-125
• Radiated attacks
• Lightning
• NSA 94-106

Attenuation levels

For shielded racks, this product offers two standard performance levels, so you can choose the type that will suit your needs.

Level 1: This type of rack is based on the well-known racks in the market and optimized for the shielding of your equipment with their in house produced shielding materials. The rack provides basic protection and reduces incoming attacks by up to 10,000 times.

Level 2: The ultimate shielding comes from the racks, which are based on the prefab Faraday cages. Shielding effectiveness of these racks exceeds most standards, with a performance over 120 dB.

Options

Their racks can be completely customized to meet your needs. Every opening or cable in the rack will result in a leak in the RF shielding. Filters are available for power and signal lines for this purpose.

Most integrated options are:

• Power-line filters
• Signal-line filters
• Ventilation honeycombs
• Waveguide
• I/O panel (BNC-, SMA-, N-Connector)
• 7894 UDP data-line filter
• 7896 USB 3.0 optical converter
• Fixed/sliding shelve
• Etc.

Final Thoughts

EM threats aren’t just a dystopian fantasy; they’re real. Whether the EMP is caused by a solar flare or a hostile nation, the effects are the same.

It is common for people to feel frantic and lost when they finally face the reality of the situation and what it takes to prepare.

It is often assumed that everyone needs to be 100% prepared for tomorrow since an EMP bomb could go off at any time. Now is the time to prepare for an EMP if you have never done so. Don’t wait any longer.

In order to prepare well, it is imperative to take one step at a time. Regardless of where people are in their preparation, they must determine what they need, what must be done first, and move forward from there.

To start, get faraday bags and put your most important electronics in them. Next, move on to the next preparedness item and keep getting ready!

Consider alternative fuels and non-electric appliances and devices. Analog is the way to go! Ensure your family has a family emergency plan.

Make sure you have a Faraday cage, a CB radio and walkie-talkies. Now is the time to work out all your plans before the EMP. You don’t want to find out you are unprepared when disaster strikes.

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