Civil unrest can turn your world upside down in a heartbeat. One minute you’re going about your daily business, the next you’re facing roadblocks, looting, and violence in the streets. As preppers and homesteaders, we know the importance of being ready for anything. But civil unrest brings unique challenges that require specific preparations. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a rural homestead, these tips will help you weather the storm and keep your loved ones safe when society seems to be falling apart around you.
Stay Informed
Knowledge is power, especially during times of unrest. Keep multiple sources of information at your disposal, including a battery-powered radio, social media, and local news. Don’t rely on just one source, as information can be unreliable or biased during chaotic times. Set up alerts on your phone for emergency broadcasts and check in regularly with trusted community members. Consider learning to use a police scanner or ham radio for real-time, unfiltered information about developing situations in your area.
Have a Bug-Out Bag Ready
Your bug-out bag is your lifeline if you need to leave quickly. Pack it with essentials for at least 72 hours: water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, cash, important documents, and a change of clothes. Include a map and compass in case GPS is unavailable. Review and update your bag’s contents every six months to ensure everything is in working order and hasn’t expired. Add seasonal items as needed, such as extra warm clothing for winter or sun protection for summer.
Secure Your Home
Make your home a hard target for looters and intruders. Install sturdy locks on all doors and windows. Consider adding security film to windows to make them shatter-resistant. Create a safe room within your home where you can retreat if necessary. Stock this room with supplies, communication devices, and if legal in your area, means of self-defense. Install motion-activated lights around your property’s perimeter to deter nighttime intruders and alert you to potential threats.
Maintain a Low Profile
During civil unrest, standing out can make you a target. Avoid wearing flashy clothing or displaying signs of wealth. If you need to go out, dress plainly and blend in with the crowd. Keep your opinions to yourself in public, as heated debates can quickly escalate in tense situations. Remember, the goal is to avoid conflict, not engage in it. Consider removing political bumper stickers or other identifiers from your vehicle that could make you a target.
Know Your Escape Routes
Plan multiple escape routes from your home and workplace. Drive these routes regularly so you know them by heart. Keep physical maps in your vehicle and bug-out bag, as you can’t rely on smartphone navigation during a crisis. Identify safe locations along each route where you can stop if needed, such as the homes of trusted friends or family members. Practice these routes at different times of day and under various conditions to prepare for any scenario.
Stock Up on Essentials
Maintain at least a month’s supply of non-perishable food, water, and essential medications. During civil unrest, supply chains can be disrupted, and stores may close or be looted. Aim for a diverse stock of nutrient-dense foods that don’t require refrigeration or cooking. Don’t forget hygiene supplies and any special needs items for family members or pets. Rotate your stocks regularly to prevent spoilage and familiarize yourself with proper long-term food storage techniques.
Create a Communication Plan
Establish a communication plan with your family and close friends. Agree on a method of contact if phone lines are down, such as a specific social media platform or ham radio frequencies. Designate an out-of-area contact who can relay messages between separated family members. Practice your plan regularly so everyone knows what to do in an emergency. Consider learning Morse code or developing a simple family code for secure communications.
Be Prepared for Power Outages
Civil unrest often leads to infrastructure disruptions. Have alternative power sources ready, such as solar chargers, hand-crank radios, and portable generators. Stock up on batteries, candles, and matches. Consider investing in a small solar panel system that can keep essential devices running during extended outages. Learn basic electrical skills to safely use and maintain your backup power systems.
Learn Basic First Aid
In times of unrest, emergency services may be overwhelmed or unable to reach you. Take a first aid course and keep a well-stocked medical kit in your home and vehicle. Include items for treating injuries common during civil disturbances, such as tear gas exposure or cuts from broken glass. Know how to treat shock, control bleeding, and perform CPR. Consider advanced training in wilderness first aid or tactical combat casualty care for more comprehensive preparedness.
Stay Physically Fit
Physical fitness can be a crucial factor in survival situations. Maintain a regular exercise routine that includes cardio and strength training. Be able to carry your bug-out bag for extended periods. Practice situational awareness and quick decision-making through activities like martial arts or team sports. Incorporate functional fitness exercises that mimic real-world scenarios, such as climbing, crawling, and lifting awkward objects.
Form a Community Network
Build relationships with like-minded neighbors. Create a neighborhood watch or mutual aid group. Share resources, skills, and information. In times of crisis, a tight-knit community can provide security, support, and valuable local intelligence. Remember, there’s strength in numbers when facing widespread unrest. Organize regular community preparedness drills to practice working together effectively during emergencies.
Keep Your Vehicle Ready
Your vehicle might be your ticket to safety. Keep it well-maintained and the gas tank at least half full at all times. Store emergency supplies in the trunk, including a get-home bag, basic tools, and a spare tire. Consider adding run-flat tires or learning how to change a tire quickly in case you need to make a hasty exit. Install a hidden kill switch to prevent theft and keep a paper map of your region in case GPS is unavailable.
Practice Situational Awareness
Train yourself to be constantly aware of your surroundings. Notice exit points when you enter buildings. Be alert for signs of escalating tension in crowds. Trust your instincts – if a situation feels unsafe, leave immediately. Avoid areas known for unrest or with a history of violence during protests. Develop a personal “baseline” for normal behavior in your area so you can quickly identify when something is amiss.
Have a Financial Backup Plan
Civil unrest can disrupt banking systems and ATMs. Keep some cash on hand, stored securely in your home. Consider investing in precious metals as a hedge against economic instability. Have copies of important financial documents stored both physically and digitally in secure locations. Diversify your assets across multiple banks and consider offshore banking options to protect against localized financial disruptions.
Stay Calm and Think Clearly
In the heat of a crisis, maintaining a clear head is crucial. Practice stress-management techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Make decisions based on facts, not rumors or emotions. Remember your training and preparation. Staying calm will help you make better decisions and set an example for those around you. Develop a personal mantra or set of focus words to quickly center yourself in high-stress situations.
