Civil Unrest / Riots: Survival Guide

Civil unrest can erupt with little warning, transforming familiar environments into chaotic and potentially dangerous situations. Whether triggered by political, social, or economic factors, riots demand a swift and strategic response. This intel can equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to navigate and survive such scenarios, drawing on principles of tradecraft employed by covert operatives.

        WHAT TO EXPECT

When a mass riot erupts in an urban city, you can expect widespread chaos and disruption. Streets that are normally bustling with daily activity may turn into battlegrounds, with large crowds clashing with law enforcement.

The air can become thick with tear gas and smoke from fires set by rioters, while the sounds of shouting, sirens, and sometimes gunfire create a constant background of tension. Public transportation may come to a halt, businesses may close down or be looted, and roadblocks might be set up by either the authorities or the rioters themselves. The atmosphere will be highly volatile, with the potential for violence breaking out unexpectedly and rapidly spreading to new areas.

In addition to the immediate dangers posed by the riot, expect significant disruptions to everyday life and essential services. Power outages may occur, either from deliberate acts of vandalism or as a result of infrastructure damage.

Emergency services can become overwhelmed, delaying response times for medical or fire emergencies. Communications may be unreliable, with cellular networks jammed by the high volume of calls or deliberately shut down by authorities trying to control the situation. Basic supplies such as food, water, and medical necessities may become scarce as stores are closed or looted.

Overall, the environment during a mass riot in an urban city is one of unpredictability and danger (seemingly like but not as severe as actual urban warfare), requiring constant vigilance and adaptability to navigate safely.

        SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

Situational awareness is the foundational skill for navigating and surviving in the midst of civil unrest. It involves continuously assessing your environment, staying informed about potential threats, and understanding how to react to changing circumstances. Mastering situational awareness means being proactive, vigilant, and adaptable to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

Stay Informed

• News and Social Media:     Regularly monitor reliable news sources and social media platforms for updates on the situation. Use trusted news outlets, official government channels, and local emergency services to get accurate and timely information. Social media can be a double-edged sword — while it provides real-time updates, it can also spread misinformation. Cross-reference multiple sources to confirm the validity of reports.

• Community Alerts:     Sign up for local alert systems, such as Nixle or emergency alert apps, which provide real-time notifications about disturbances, curfews, and evacuation orders. These systems are often used by local authorities to disseminate crucial information quickly.

Understand the Environment

• Know the Area:     Familiarize yourself with the geography of your neighborhood and the city at large. Identify major landmarks, police stations, hospitals, and potential safe zones like community centers or friend’s houses. Mapping out multiple routes to these locations can provide alternative paths if primary routes are blocked or unsafe.

• Recognize Signals:     Be alert to the early signs of unrest, such as unusual gatherings, heightened police presence, or escalating rhetoric on social media. Recognize patterns from past events that could indicate the likelihood of violence, such as the time of day when unrest typically peaks or specific locations that have been flashpoints in the past.

Maintain Awareness During Unrest

• Constant Vigilance:     Continuously scan your surroundings, especially in high-risk areas. Pay attention to changes in the behavior of people around you, such as sudden movements or groups congregating. Listen for unusual sounds like breaking glass, loud bangs, or raised voices, which may indicate an immediate threat.

• Dynamic Assessment:     Regularly reassess your situation as events unfold. What was a safe location an hour ago might now be a hotspot of activity. Use real-time information to update your plans and adjust your movements accordingly.

• Personal Safety:     Be mindful of your own behavior and how it might be perceived by others. Avoid actions that could draw unnecessary attention, such as taking photos or videos of the unrest. Blend in with the crowd if necessary, and avoid confrontation by steering clear of heated exchanges or physical altercations.

Tools for Enhanced Awareness

• Communication Devices:     Keep a fully charged phone with emergency contacts pre-programmed. Consider carrying a portable charger or a battery pack to ensure you stay connected.

• Maps and Navigation:     Use both physical maps and digital mapping apps. Offline maps can be invaluable if the cellular network is down. Apps like Google Maps can provide real-time updates on road closures and traffic conditions.

• Emergency Radio:     A battery-operated or hand-crank emergency radio can provide updates if the power goes out or mobile networks fail. Many emergency radios are equipped with NOAA weather alerts and can pick up local broadcasts.

By maintaining high situational awareness, you can better anticipate and react to the rapidly changing dynamics of civil unrest. This proactive approach allows you to make informed decisions, avoid danger, and increase your chances of staying safe amid the chaos.

        PREPAREDNESS

Effective preparedness is essential to ensuring your safety and resilience during civil unrest. By equipping yourself with the necessary supplies, fortifying your home, and establishing emergency plans, you can significantly enhance your ability to withstand and navigate through the turbulence. This section outlines the key components of preparedness that you should focus on to be ready for any eventuality.

Essential Supplies

• Water:     At least one liter per person per day for three days. Include water purification tablets or a portable filter.

• Food:     Non-perishable items like energy bars, canned goods, and dehydrated meals. Ensure they are easy to prepare and consume.

• First Aid Kit:     Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, any prescription medications, and emergency contact information.

• Flashlight and Batteries:     Opt for LED flashlights with extra batteries or a hand-crank option.

• Multi-Tool:     A versatile tool with features such as a knife, pliers, and screwdriver can be invaluable.

• Gloves and Face Mask:     For protection against tear gas, debris, and airborne particles.

• Goggles:     To shield your eyes from irritants like tear gas or smoke.

• Ear Protection:     Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help protect against loud explosions or sustained noise.

• Emergency Cash:     Small bills and coins, enough to cover essentials for several days. ATMs may be inaccessible or nonfunctioning.

Home Fortification

[Secure Entrances]     Reinforce doors and windows to prevent break-ins and protect against debris or projectiles.

• Deadbolts and Lock Bars:     Install heavy-duty deadbolts on all exterior doors. Lock bars or security poles can add an extra layer of protection.

• Window Security Film:     Apply shatter-resistant film to windows to prevent them from breaking easily.

• Bars and Grilles:     Consider installing metal bars or grilles on ground-floor windows, but ensure they have quick-release mechanisms for emergency exits.

[Emergency Plan]     Develop and practice a comprehensive emergency plan tailored to your household.

• Meeting Points:     Designate safe locations both inside and outside your home where family members can meet if separated.

• Communication Strategy:     Establish a primary and backup method of communication. Use text messages, social media, or a designated out-of-town contact if local lines are overwhelmed.

• Roles and Responsibilities:     Assign specific roles to each family member, such as who will gather the go-bags or who will check on neighbors.

Community Engagement

• Neighborhood Watch:     Engage with your neighbors to establish a community watch program. Collective vigilance can improve overall security and provide mutual support.

• Local Resources:     Familiarize yourself with local resources such as shelters, medical facilities, and emergency supply locations. Know where to go for help and how to access these resources quickly.

By focusing on these preparedness strategies, you can significantly increase your chances of staying safe and maintaining stability during periods of civil unrest. Preparation not only protects you but also empowers you to assist others and contribute to the overall resilience of your community.

        EVACUATION STRATEGIES

When civil unrest escalates to a point where staying put becomes too dangerous, having a well-thought-out evacuation strategy is critical. Knowing when and how to evacuate can be the difference between reaching safety and getting caught in a perilous situation. This section outlines key considerations for deciding when to evacuate, planning your evacuation routes, and the methods to use during the evacuation process.

When to Evacuate

[Early Decision]

• Proactive Departure:     If there are credible warnings or signs of impending unrest, it’s often safer to leave early. Delaying evacuation increases the risk of getting caught in roadblocks or violent encounters.

• Local Authority Advisories:     Pay close attention to advisories from local authorities. Evacuation orders are issued based on the latest intelligence and threat assessments.

[Signs to Leave]

• Rapid Escalation:     Immediate evacuation is necessary if the situation escalates rapidly, with increasing violence, fires, or widespread looting.

• Proximity to Danger Zones:     If unrest is occurring close to your location, evacuate before the area becomes inaccessible or too dangerous.

• Infrastructure Breakdown:     Leave if critical services (e.g., power, water, communications) are disrupted, indicating a severe and potentially prolonged disturbance.

How to Evacuate

[Route Planning]

• Multiple Routes:     Identify and familiarize yourself with several evacuation routes. Main roads may be blocked, so consider secondary and tertiary routes, including side streets and alleys.

• Avoid Choke Points:     Steer clear of major intersections, bridges, and tunnels that can become congested or targets for blockades.

• Real-Time Navigation:     Use GPS and traffic apps to monitor road conditions and find the safest, fastest path. Keep a paper map as a backup in case digital services fail.

[Stealth Movement]

• Blending In:     Dress in neutral clothing that doesn’t draw attention. Avoid bright colors or any attire that could be mistaken for uniforms or gang affiliations.

• Low Profile:     Move quietly and inconspicuously. Don’t engage with protesters or authorities, and avoid any actions that could be perceived as provocative.

• Night Movement:     If possible, consider evacuating at night or early morning when crowds are thinner, but be aware of reduced visibility and different types of risks.

[Travel Light]

• Essentials Only:     Pack light to remain mobile. Take only essential items from your go-bag, such as water, food, medical supplies, and important documents.

• Vehicle Preparation:     If evacuating by vehicle, ensure it’s in good working order and has a full tank of gas. Plan for refueling stops if traveling long distances.

Safety Measures During Evacuation

[Group Dynamics]

• Travel Together:     If possible, evacuate with trusted individuals or family members. There’s safety in numbers, and a group can provide mutual support.

• Communication Plan:     Maintain regular communication within the group and establish meeting points in case you get separated.

[Concealment and Protection]

• Stay Out of Sight:     Use natural cover such as buildings, trees, and walls to shield yourself from view. Avoid open areas where you’re easily spotted.

• Protective Measures:     Carry personal protection items such as pepper spray or a personal alarm, but avoid weapons that could escalate encounters.

[Dealing with Checkpoints]

• Authorities:     Be respectful and cooperative with law enforcement or military personnel. Have your identification and any necessary permits ready.

• Unofficial Checkpoints:     Be wary of unofficial or impromptu checkpoints set up by non-authorities. Avoid engaging if possible, and seek alternate routes.

By meticulously planning and executing your evacuation strategy, you enhance your chances of reaching safety efficiently and minimizing risks. Preparedness, quick decision-making, and adherence to safety protocols are vital to surviving and thriving during and after an evacuation due to civil unrest.

        WHEN IN THE MIDST OF A RIOT

Finding yourself caught in the middle of a riot requires a strategic and adaptable approach to ensure your safety. This section details specific survival tactics that will help you navigate through the chaos, minimize your exposure to danger, and effectively manage critical situations such as exposure to tear gas or sudden confrontations.

Blending In

[Dress Appropriately]

• Neutral Clothing:     Wear plain, non-branded clothing that helps you blend into the crowd. Avoid bright colors, military-style gear, or any attire that might associate you with a particular group or ideology.

• Comfortable Footwear:     Ensure you wear comfortable, sturdy shoes that allow for quick and agile movement. Sneakers or boots are preferable.

[Behavior]

• Mimic the Crowd:     Observe the behavior of the crowd and mimic it without drawing attention to yourself. If the crowd is moving in a particular direction, follow at a safe distance. Avoid making eye contact or gestures that could be perceived as confrontational.

• Stay Calm and Controlled:     Maintain a calm demeanor even if the situation becomes intense. Panic can attract attention and lead to poor decision-making.

Avoiding Conflict

[Stay on the Move]

• Constant Motion:     Keep moving towards your planned exit. Staying in one place increases your risk of getting caught in a confrontation or targeted by looters or law enforcement.

• Avoid Hotspots:     Steer clear of areas where violence is most likely to erupt, such as police lines, barricades, and the center of large crowds.

[Avoid Confrontation]

• Non-Engagement:     Do not engage with rioters or law enforcement. Avoid arguments, and steer clear of altercations. Your goal is to remain unnoticed and uninvolved.

• Stealth Navigation:     Use side streets, alleys, and less-traveled paths to navigate away from the main unrest. Stay away from high-visibility areas like open squares and major thoroughfares.

Dealing with Tear Gas

[Immediate Action]

• Move to Higher Ground:     Tear gas tends to settle close to the ground. If possible, move to a higher elevation or an area with better ventilation.

• Avoid Rubbing Eyes:     Tear gas irritates the eyes, nose, and skin. Rubbing can worsen the irritation. Blink rapidly and use water or saline solution to flush out your eyes.

[Rinse and Protect]

• Water or Baking Soda Solution:     If exposed, rinse your face with water or a solution of baking soda and water (1 teaspoon of baking soda per cup of water) to neutralize the effects.

• Protective Gear:     Wear goggles and a face mask to prevent exposure. A bandana soaked in vinegar or lemon juice can provide temporary relief if a proper mask is unavailable.

Handling Confrontations

[De-Escalation Techniques]

• Non-Threatening Posture:     Maintain a non-threatening posture by keeping your hands visible and open. Avoid sudden movements.

• Calm Communication:     Speak calmly and clearly if you need to communicate. Use neutral language and avoid provocative statements.

[Escape and Evasion]

• Quick Retreat:     If a confrontation appears imminent, look for an opportunity to retreat safely. Move quickly and decisively to a safe location.

• Use Cover:     Use buildings, vehicles, or other obstacles as cover while you move away from potential threats.

Medical and Emergency Responses

[First Aid]

• Self-Treatment:     Carry a basic first aid kit and be familiar with its contents. Know how to treat common injuries such as cuts, bruises, and the effects of tear gas.

• Seek Help:     If you or someone near you is seriously injured, seek medical attention immediately. Move towards areas where medical personnel are present, such as first aid stations set up by protest organizers or humanitarian groups.

[Emergency Communication]

• Stay Connected:     Keep your phone charged and maintain contact with friends, family, or emergency services. Use text messages or social media to provide updates on your location and status.

• Designated Contact:     Have a designated contact person outside the unrest area who can act as a liaison and provide updates or call for help if needed.

Post-Unrest Safety

[Safe Return]

• Assess Conditions:     Before returning to your home or original location, assess the situation to ensure it is safe. Follow news updates and listen to official advisories.

• Avoid Hazards:     Be cautious of hazards such as broken glass, debris, and unstable structures. Wear appropriate footwear and protective clothing.

By employing these survival tactics, you can significantly enhance your ability to navigate through civil unrest safely. Staying calm, maintaining situational awareness, and using strategic movements will increase your chances of avoiding danger and reaching a secure location.

By applying these principles and concepts, you can increase your chances of staying safe and secure during times of civil unrest. Preparation and awareness are your best defenses to survive and thrive.