The ideal plan in a crisis or disaster is to be able to shelter in place at home. That’s where most of your stuff is located, and it’s where you’ll likely be the most comfortable. However, there are situations where evacuation, or bugging out as we call in the prepper world, is going to be your best option.
It’s important to recognize that bugging out can be a dangerous proposition. Stay or go isn’t a decision to be made lightly. It’s also worth noting that not all evacuations happen in an instant. In many cases, it’s more of a slow burn that leads to the final decision to bug out.
Here are some examples of situations where evacuation might be the best course of action.
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Bugging Out: Decision Time
Damage to Your Dwelling
Severe storms can be devastating. In a recent storm that hit my area, dozens of homes were damaged, with trees crashing through roofs and windows. If an oak tree lands on your bed, odds are that staying there for the night isn’t going to be an ideal situation.
Wildfire is Approaching
Those who live in wildfire country are familiar with the bug-out protocol. Fortunately, if you’re paying attention to reports, it isn’t always an immediate evacuation situation. You might have a few hours or more to get your plan together and then bug out.
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Loss of Utility Services
A temporary power outage is easy to handle, all things considered. It might be uncomfortable, but for most people it isn’t life-threatening. However, if that outage is going to last a few days or more, some folks might be in jeopardy. Those who rely on medical equipment like CPAP machines or oxygen feeds could be in a world of hurt. Not to mention people with conditions like COPD and who can’t handle extreme heat and humidity. People with challenges like those are going to need to get out of the area ASAP.
Hurricanes
This one is admittedly questionable. There are an awful lot of people who live in hurricane-prone areas who will never evacuate, no matter what the forecast might be. I get it. I mean, I’m from the Midwest, and if the tornado siren goes off, the first thing I do is head to the front porch to see if I can spot a funnel cloud.
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I’m not suggesting this is in any way an appropriate response. I’m just saying I understand. Still, if Jim Cantore is booking a flight to your town, you might want to consider bugging out.
Martial Law
This could be the result of any number of natural disasters, including hurricanes or earthquakes, as well as a response to massive civil unrest. Whatever the cause may be, I have no desire to get caught up in a martial law situation. I’d much rather be on the outside looking in, all other things being equal.
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While in most situations you’re better off hunkering down at home, it is important to plan ahead to bug out, just in case home is no longer a safe place to be.
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