If you live in
Urban, Suburban, Earthquake, Hurricane or Flood Zones you MUST have a
relocation plan. You need to stay aware of circumstances so you can make your
decision to relocate well in advance of the need.
Hunker Down
The decision to stay put is primarily based on the
extent of your preparations, the stability of your home and your
personal safety in a given situation. Considerations include:
- Safety and security of your residence
and surrounding area
- Practical extent of your food and water supplies
- Effect of high heat or extreme cold if
electricity is lost
- Effect of loss of pure water supply
- Alternate sanitation capacity
Get-Out-of-Dodge Option
If relocating is the best option for a specific event, consider these
basic criteria:
- A pre-established and prepared place to go
- A reliable means of travel, including alternate
means
- Enough time get there safely before a
mass migration from your area
- What to take
- What to leave behind
Pros & Cons
Hunkering down at your urban or suburban residence, if
adequately stocked, may be the best option for you if you have no
prearranged and stocked place to go. Even if you do have a retreat
option such as a pre-arranged plan to stay with a relative, ensure your plan includes
the ability to stay put for a short time while the wave of any social
unrest passes. In times of crisis, large population centers can
become dangerous. If you fail to see the signs of impending natural
disaster or civil collapse soon enough, it may not be safe to travel right
away.
Even if you plan for long
term survival in-place, your plans should include a relocation element.
Events such as wild fires, flooding, mass migration through your area, and
extreme social unrest can turn even the best urban/suburban retreat into
an unsafe place.
Bugging Out
Think about where you spend your day. In the event of a
fast developing event you may get cut off from your residence and
supplies. Keep a small bug-out-bag (BOB) ready at home, at work, and in every
vehicle. Check
your bag every month and refresh your water and food stocks. Be prepared
to carry your bag over moderately long distances. Proper forethought and smart
packing will keep it as light and comfortable.
Wilderness Survival Skills
Don't plan on heading for the hills and living in the forest
with your supplies. This is the worst option you can choose.
However, there are some wilderness skills that can see you through
even in urban areas. You don't need to become a proficient
back-woodsman, but you do need to know how to tell direction, start a
fire, locate and purify water, select secure temporary sites and a few
skills that will help you on your trek to a safe, well stocked
place. No matter how far away from your safe place, don't depend soley on
personal or public transportation to get you there.
Next
Survival Water Plan
See the ADVANCED
Area for Specific Plans
