As Preppers, we may all be aware of the importance of defence, not only in the street, but at home too. Before, during or after SHTF | Disorder | WROL situation you need to be aware of changing situations so that you can adapt and act accordingly. Severing the ties to life by closing yourself into your location without knowing what is going on around you can cause additional problems. Situational Awareness (SA) is key, but how can we go beyond SA?
In order to establish a baseline of what is normal, you need to observe. This can be done at different distances from your home, depending on how much warning of abnormality you require. Of course the distances will reduce once SHTF has happened, as you are more likely to be in your location, secure.
One method you can use, is to establish a 'PATTERN OF LIFE' around your area. Simple observation and listening can be used in order to achieve this. Some examples are:
- The trash man comes around on Monday mornings.
- The Postman does his rounds on at around 11 AM.
- The next door neighbour goes shopping every Wednesday.
- Mr Cripps from across the road walks his dog in the afternoons.
- The planes above fly over regularly.
- The radio or TV goes silent/dead.
What are your aims?
You need to establish what is normal given the current events. Looking and listening for patterns at regular times to build a pattern of repetition of your neighbours actions, the timing of visitors or even aid relief vehicles and police patrols. You essentiall become a 'Curtain Spy' (referred to as a'Curtain Twitcher' in U.K.).
What to look for
Once a baseline is established, you should be aware of local irregular activities, such as:
- SILENCE in the street.
- An increase in crowds.
- Unusual or loud noises associated with violent acts.
- Out of the ordinary movement of people (late night activities etc).
Regularity should be the key so, If It Looks Out Of The Ordinary, It Probably Is. Analytical thinking is key. Again, you can carry this out either covertly or overtly, your choice. Community Crime Watch groups are a good example of 'the grape-vine' and 'the word on the street' will be of great help.
What's The Point?
As preppers, we like to think that we are AWAKE, but if you have just moved into your Bug Out Location, you may not be completely upto speed about the normality of your surrounding area! The key point is early warning of trouble and strife at a local level. If you are not aware of the normality of your neighbourhood, you are leaving yourself blind to any immediate threat that may come your way. After a Disaster or SHTF event, you may be scared and potentially isolated. The more awareness of the 'Pattern Of Life' around your location, the better. Another great contribution to your SA! There is nothing worse than being caught off-guard or being In The Dark.