Daniel Dabbs
4 Things You Need to Know About Urban Survival
An urban disaster strikes. You know how to survive in the wilderness, but this is different. What do you do?
First and foremost, follow your instincts. Most people will fall into the mob mentality when an urban disaster strikes, but you’re different. You’re taking time now to prepare, so you already have the upper hand. The worst thing you can do is follow a crowd with no knowledge. Take time to read up on these tips so you’re prepared when an urban disaster starts taking down your city.
1. Consider the bug in plan - When disaster strikes, the first decision you need to make is whether or not evacuation is your best chance of survival. In some situations, staying inside your home or shelter could actually mean a better chance of survival. Assess the situation and act out of expertise, not panic. If you don’t already have a bug in plan, start now. Store enough food, water, and supplies to last you up to a few weeks should you be trapped for that long. Here’s a list of the things you’re most likely to forget to pack.
2. Move fast - Pack your bug out bag now, while there’s no sign of danger. Store it in a location that’s easily accessible to you when you have limited time. Have a family or a bug out crew? Make sure everyone is on the same page and understands your bug out plan, including where to meet in the event of a disaster. Don’t wait for neighbors and others around you to be ready; get yourself and your bug out crew moving as quickly as possible to get ahead.
3. Be prepared for the worst - An urban disaster could mean environmental hazards. Pack gear that will help you through hazards, not slow you down. You never know what you’ll encounter, so consider eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and lung protection. Wear sturdy shoes, pants, and a long sleeve shirt.
4. Stay concealed - In an urban disaster situation, most people will not be as prepared as you are. When things start going downhill and people begin panicking, they’ll turn to the one who’s clearly prepared and protected. Don’t allow others to know that’s you. Keep your bug out bag and supplies concealed -- or be ready for others to raid your stash. Blend in with others and eliminate camo, visible tactical gear, and military logos. Be a survivor, not a hero.
Even if you’re a wilderness survival expert, you have a lot to learn about urban survival. Remember: urban survival and wilderness survival are two very different things. It ultimately comes down to being prepared everywhere. Think about it -- you’re most likely to be at home, work, or somewhere part of your normal routine when an urban disaster strikes. So always be prepared.
