A man stands on a burned-out car as fires burn behind him in the Lake St area of Minneapolis, Minnesota during civil unrest following the death of George Floyd in 2020. Photo by Lorie Shaull / CC BY 2.0,
In today’s unpredictable world, the possibility of civil unrest is something we must all be prepared for. Whether triggered by political disagreements, economic challenges, or social issues, civil unrest can arise suddenly and without warning. Civil unrest can be caused by a variety of factors, either individually or in combination. These events can be planned or spontaneous, and they can occur with little to no warning.
No country is immune. In 2024, the United States has experienced significant civil unrest, particularly related to the Middle East and the political climate leading up to the presidential election. Concerns have been amplified by increasing ideological divisions and political violence. This period of instability has been marked by protests, clashes between opposing political groups, and a general sense of unease as the nation grapples with deep-seated divisions. According to a newly declassified assessment released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), US adversaries could stoke post-election unrest.
The benchmark of civil unrest is when a protest staged by a large gathering of people goes from free speech to violent action. The motivation for that action is proportional to the reason for the protest. Agitators can manipulate the crowd to incite violent action. An overreaction by authorities can also act as a precipitating factor. Agitators are aware of this and will often attempt to trigger an overreaction.
Emotional contagion is the process where an individual’s emotions and associated behaviors directly influence another person to exhibit similar emotions and behaviors. This effect can occur between two individuals or within a larger group, leading to a shared emotional experience.
Emotional contagion influences crowd behavior by providing a psychological sense of unity. It provides cover for individuals to do things that they would like to do but otherwise would not do. Once unlawful and disruptive acts occur, the crowd effectively becomes a mob, a highly emotional, unreasonable and potentially violent crowd.
Situational Awareness
Obviously, the best option is to avoid unrest altogether. If you are aware of when and where a protest is planned, you can avoid it. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible.
Unrest and protests can be very unpredictable. Law enforcement and emergency preparedness planners know it’s important to expect the unexpected and manage every situation in its own context.
It’s crucial to stay up to date on any potential or unfolding events. The Internet, television and radio are all critical sources of information. Radio and local television may be the best real-time source of information for rapidly unfolding local events.
Pay attention for any specific alerts, warnings, cautions or all clears being issued by local emergency agencies. Are there any hot spots? Are there any safe zones that have been set up by authorities for essential services?
In any disaster or crisis, you have two basic options: shelter in place or evacuation. The appropriate response will depend on the specific circumstances of the situation.
In any emergency situation, whether you are considering sheltering in place or evacuating, it is crucial to remain calm, stay informed, and be prepared. The primary objective is to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Each scenario presents its own set of challenges and risks, so it is essential to carefully assess the specific circumstances and potential dangers before making a decision. By staying composed and gathering accurate information, you can make informed choices that prioritize safety and effectively address the unique aspects of the situation at hand
Sheltering in Place
Sheltering in place during civil unrest typically involves staying inside your home or another safe location until the situation resolves. This is often the best course of action when violence is widespread, and law enforcement advises residents to stay indoors. When sheltering in place, it is essential to ensure you have sufficient supplies, such as food, water, and medical necessities. Additionally, staying informed about the situation through reliable news sources and official updates is crucial. If possible, avoid windows or areas where you could be seen from the outside to minimize the risk of harm.
A stay bag is a type of emergency kit designed to help you stay safe and comfortable if you need to shelter in place during an emergency. Unlike a go-bag, which is meant for quick evacuation, a stay bag contains items that can help you manage a longer-term stay at home or another safe location.
Evacuation Scenario
Evacuation might become necessary if your location is directly threatened by unrest, such as being in the path of a violent protest or if your home is targeted. In such scenarios, having a pre-planned evacuation route and a packed emergency go-bag can be lifesaving. It’s crucial to follow the guidance of local authorities and leave the area if an evacuation order is issued. Remember to let your loved ones know about your plans and stay in contact with them as much as possible.
In an evacuation scenario, the primary objective is to reach a place of safety. To achieve this, it is crucial to be aware of your current location and to have a clear understanding of the route and alternate routes that will lead you to safety. Equally important is having the right tools at your disposal and, most importantly, knowing how to use them effectively. Possessing tools without the necessary training renders them practically useless.
Everyday carry (EDC) is simply what you carry every day. It’s what you have on your person. These are the things that you find essential in your day-to-day life. A go bag serves a different purpose. A go bag is a small bag designed to get you where you need to go. A go bag is more specialized and is typically used in emergency situations. It is designed to help you get to safety. A go bag differs from a bug-out bag, although the terms are commonly used interchangeably. A bug-out bag is designed to help you survive for a longer period of time. They’re typically larger, multi-day packs.
One of the most crucial steps in preparedness is building a go bag. This portable kit can be a lifesaver in emergencies, ensuring you have the essentials to survive and stay safe. Having multiple go bags in your home, vehicles, and workplace is often the best solution, as you never know where disaster might strike.
When deciding what items to carry, several factors need to be considered. These include the time it will take to reach safety, the distance involved, potential threats and hazards, the environment, weather conditions, your physical fitness level, any medical requirements or personal needs, and appropriate clothing. It is essential to remember that mobility is key to survival, and therefore, the size and weight of your gear are critical considerations.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to shelter in place or evacuate, the key to survival lies in preparation and adaptability. By understanding the specific risks and challenges of each scenario, you can make informed decisions that prioritize safety. Building a well-equipped go bag, staying informed through reliable sources, and maintaining clear communication with loved ones are essential steps in ensuring your well-being. The ultimate goal is to stay safe and protect those around you, so always be ready to adapt your plans as the situation evolves.
Resource
Packing a Go Bag and a Stay Bag – US Department of State
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