
Jim Urquhart / Reuters
Phil Burns demonstrates the air purifying SCape Mask at his home in American Fork, Utah, Dec. 14, 2012. While most "preppers" discount the Mayan calendar prophecy, many are preparing to be self-sufficient for threats like nuclear war, natural disaster, famine or economic collapse.
EDITOR’S NOTE: All images made available to NBC News on Dec. 18.

Jim Urquhart / Reuters
Phil Burns inventories a backpack full of survival supplies at his home in American Fork, Utah, Dec. 14.

Jim Urquhart / Reuters
Employees construct a bunker at Utah Shelter Systems in North Salt Lake, Utah, Dec. 12. Shelter prices range from $51,800 to $64,900.

Jim Urquhart / Reuters
Hugh Vail inventories food storage at his home in Bountiful, Utah, Dec. 10.

Jim Urquhart / Reuters
Hugh Vail cuts firewood at his home in Bountiful, Utah, Dec. 10.

Jim Urquhart / Reuters
Mike Porenta prepares to ship emergency camp stoves at American Prepper Network's warehouse in Sandy, Utah, Dec. 10.
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