For three months, there has been civil unrest in the Ukraine. Lately, the protests have turned violent as demonstrators and police units clashed in Independence Square. To get a better perspective on this event, go here or here and read the latest postings.
Credit: Voice of America
Over the last few days, events in Kiev have shown how deadly civil unrest can get. This should serve as motivation to be prepared in case similar events happen in your community. Yesterday’s post focused on what you should have on-hand in case of civil unrest. This post will focus on what you should do if it ever happens.
When civil unrest happens, think of home as in; get home, stay home, and protect (your) home. Staying at the office, going out shopping, or otherwise being away from home during a period of civil unrest is a very bad idea. Such situations are unpredictable and fluid, your best bet is to get where you can be safe…your home.
Get Home
- Be familiar with multiple routes that will get you back home
- Have a Get Me Home Bag in your car
- Know of hiding places along the way where you can lay low if needed
- Avoid groups of people
Stay Home
- Follow events to stay informed
- Rely upon on-hand supplies
- Lay low and hunker down until situation improves
Protect Home
- Lock all doors and windows
- Don’t answer the door
- Carry weapons to defend home
- Ensure safe room is ready
The most important activity though is to be aware of your surroundings and events. If you know your community well and stay up to date on events (via Twitter, radio, TV, HAM radio, police scanner, etc.) you can avoid most problems. Plus, if you have prepared for other emergency situations, you should be as ready as one can for civil unrest. Take time now to get prepared so you will be able to ride this kind of storm out.