The media is in a frenzy to provide continual coverage of the politically motivated demonstrations, protests, and marches. As individuals, we cannot control or change national events, which can lead to an out of control feeling. However, we can do our best to prepare ourselves and our community.
There are steps you can take to prepare for potential civil unrest and/or violence (i.e., large-scale protests, demonstrations, riots, etc) in the areas where you work and live. It is crucial to emphasize that these preparations should focus on safety, communication, and resource management, and should always remain within the bounds of the law.
Here are some actionable steps which can be used to develop a personalized plan of action for your area and specific conditions.
1. Information Gathering and Situational Awareness
- Monitor Local News and Social Media (Use Caution and Common Sense): Stay informed about planned protests, potential flashpoints, and any official warnings or advisories from local authorities. Be wary of misinformation and rely on credible sources.
- Develop an Information Network: Designate a few group members to monitor different information channels and share relevant updates with the rest of the group.
- Understand Local Emergency Plans: Familiarize yourselves with your city/county emergency management plans, and their expected courses of action. Identify the designated evacuation routes or shelters.
2. Communication Planning
Establish a reliable communication plan for your group (family, neighborhood, team, church, etc). Identify primary and secondary communication methods that will work even if traditional networks are disrupted. These could include:
- Group Text/Messaging App: Ensure all members are part of a dedicated group chat.
- Radios (Ham, GMRS, FRS): These can be useful for short-range communication if cell service is unreliable.
- Pre-Arranged Meeting Points: Designate safe locations where group members can meet if communication fails.
- Develop a Communication Tree: Outline how information will flow within the group.
- Establish Check-in Procedures: If unrest occurs, set up a system for members to check in with each other regularly.
3. Individual Resources
Encourage preparedness among the individual members of each group you are part of (i.e., church, neighborhood, work, etc). For example, encourage individuals to have an emergency kit at home “just in case of… an earthquake, or winter storm.” A good start for this emergency kit would include:
- Food and Water: A supply for at least 72 hours (ideally more).
- First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit with necessary medications.
- Flashlight and Batteries
- Radio (Battery-powered or hand-crank): To receive emergency broadcasts.
- Whistle: To signal for help.
- Dust Masks/Respirators: To protect against smoke or tear gas.
- Eye Protection: Goggles or safety glasses.
- Warm Clothing and Blankets
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Important Documents: Copies of identification, insurance, etc.
- Cash: ATMs and electronic payments may not be available.
- Fuel: Ensure vehicles have adequate fuel and consider storing extra fuel safely if possible.
4. Home and Personal Security Measures
- Review Home Security: Ensure doors and windows are secure. Consider reinforcing entry points if possible.
- Develop a “Safe Room” Plan: Identify a secure room in each member’s home where they can shelter in place if necessary.
- Practice Situational Awareness: Encourage members to be aware of their surroundings and avoid areas where unrest is likely.
- Establish Neighborhood Watch Principles: If appropriate, coordinate with neighbors to share information and look out for each other.
- Consider Basic Self-Defense Training: While not advocating for confrontation, basic self-defense knowledge can increase confidence and potentially help in emergency situations. Focus on de-escalation and avoidance.
5. Community Support and Mutual Aid
- Identify Vulnerable Neighbors: Consider who in your community might need extra assistance during a period of unrest (elderly, disabled, families with young children).
- Develop a Plan to Check on Neighbors (Safely): If it’s safe to do so, have a plan to check on vulnerable individuals.
- Share Resources (If Possible and Safe): Consider which of your vulnerable neighbors might need resources, and what you might be able to provide. Decide ahead of time… who you would be willing to share with, and what you would be prepared to share.
6. Emergency Planning and Procedures
- Develop Evacuation Plans: Identify potential evacuation routes from your neighborhood and have a designated out-of-area meeting point. Consider different scenarios and routes.
- Establish a “Bug-Out Bag” Concept: Each member should have a readily accessible bag with essential items for a quick evacuation.
- Practice Drills: Conduct periodic drills to practice communication plans, meeting at designated locations, or sheltering in place.
- Develop a Plan for Children and Pets: Ensure plans are in place for the safety and care of children and pets.
7. Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Stay within the bounds of the law: Emphasize that all actions must be ethical and legal. Do not engage in any vigilante activities or actions that could escalate tensions or violence.
- Respect Law Enforcement: Cooperate with law enforcement and emergency responders.
- Focus on Preparedness, Not Provocation: The goal is to be prepared for potential disruptions, not to engage in or encourage unrest.
- Avoid Spreading Rumors or Misinformation: Be responsible in sharing information and rely on verified sources.
This article is an excerpt from the ReadyCorps Daily SITREP. To learn more about ReadyCorps, visit https://readycorps.net