Dianne Jones of Andalusia considers herself a “doomsday prepper extraordinaire,” and now, will teach you how to be one, too.

Jones, director of the Andalusia Adult Activity Center, said, “Preparing for a time when food is scarce is not a new concept. It just has a new name. People have always canned and stockpiled.

“I grew up on a farm, and it was our way of life,” she said. “I do the same thing now.”

And it’s not a strange phenomenon – in fact, there is a reality TV show on the National Geographic Channel that follows people preparing for the end of civilization. The series interviews people who are preparing to survive the various circumstances through which life as we know it might come to an end. It also details the actions that the preppers have taken coupled with an expert analysis and recommendations for improvements.

Jones said she will be demonstrating several of the techniques featured on the show such as dry canning, bucket storage and creating a long-term food storage pantry.

Jones said the class, which will be held on Thurs., Oct. 4, at 1:30 p.m., at the AAC, will also feature valuable information for those looking to make the most of their food budget.

“For me, these techniques are great because I never run out of something good to eat,” she said. “In the summer, I can fresh fruits and vegetables. In the winter, it’s dry-canning all sorts of things like oatmeal, grits, pecans and the like.

“For me, it’s a way of life,” Jones said. “But once you get used to doing it, it becomes second-nature. When you cook something, make a large quantity and can the rest. Then, when things go on sale at the grocery store, like cereal and candy, vaccuum seal it.

“Before you know it, you have a stocked pantry,” she said.

Jones said she will also discuss food shelf life and other aspects of long-term food storage.

There is a $10 fee for the class, and pre-registration is required by calling 222-6891. Jones said participants will receive numerous handouts and instructions if attending.