The topic at hand is about preparing for potential long-term shortages of ostomy supplies, similar to the disruptions experienced during the COVID pandemic. The concern is how to manage if distributors are unable to provide essential items like barriers, pouches, or accessories for an extended period. Here are some practical ideas and advice for sourcing, re-using, or improvising equipment:

1. **Stockpiling & Rotation**
- Consider ordering slightly more than your monthly insurance allotments to build a reserve of 6 to 12 months. Don't worry too much about expiration dates if you store items in a cool, dry place.

2. **Re-using/Extending Commercial Products**
- Rinse and re-use two-piece pouches when possible. Using bag liners can help extend the life of your pouches, which is especially useful if your supply is limited.
- Keep any spare or less preferred brands on hand; they can be a lifesaver in an emergency.

3. **Exchanging Supplies**
- Set up a forum section where members can post surplus items and request what they need. When exchanging supplies, confirm the stoma size and whether the recipient needs additional items like barrier wipes or flange-extender tape.

4. **Improvised Pouches & Bags**
- Use zip-seal or freezer bags with duct tape or physician’s tape. Other options include dog-waste bags, condoms (for gas inflation), irrigation sleeves, or plastic tubing.
- Consider flushable pouches and wipes made from bamboo or plant fibers for easier disposal.
- Adding a 90-degree plumber’s waste bend inside homemade bags can help direct output downward and prevent pancaking.

5. **DIY Baseplates & Adhesion**
- Home-built baseplates can work with both standard and improvised bags. Some adhesives that have been effective include double-sided carpet tape and Sookwang double-sided tape.
- Using belts can provide added security, and experimenting with "artificial skin" sheets might improve adhesion.

6. **Alternative Management**
- Learning colostomy irrigation can significantly reduce the need for daily pouch use, cutting down on supply needs.

7. **Adhesive Removal Options**
- Use commercial adhesive removers or home formulas like oils and citrus solvents. Cosmetic-industry wig adhesive removers can also be a gentle option.

8. **Travel & Lost Luggage**
- Always carry enough supplies in your hand luggage. While some suppliers claim they can ship worldwide within 24 hours, it's wise to plan for possible delays.

9. **Tapes & Sealants**
- Duct tape is strong but can be painful to remove. Physician’s tape, whether medical paper or cloth, is gentler on the skin.

10. **Miscellaneous Tips**
- If no pouch is available, having access to a bathtub or hot water can be helpful for extended "toilet time."
- Freezer bags taped to belts can serve as a substitute for buckets when weight is a concern.

These strategies can help you feel more prepared and less anxious about potential supply shortages.