If there’s anything the last decade or two has taught us it’s that civil unrest is the norm, especially following major presidential elections like the one we just went through. The tensions are high, and while I hope for peace, I’m also preparing for the worst. It doesn’t take a crystal ball to realize that riots could be around the corner, and the best thing we can do is be ready—without taking sides or making it political.
Staying safe is all about planning, blending in, and making sure you have what you need to hunker down or get out if things go south. The way I see it, preparation is a blend of strategic thinking, a bit of paranoia, and a lot of common sense. Let me walk you through how I’m getting ready for the possibility of riots in the coming months.
1. Avoiding the Hotspots
The first and most important step to staying safe during any kind of civil unrest is to avoid the places where trouble is likely to break out.
In this case, that means avoiding major government buildings, busy downtown areas, and any high-profile locations where protests might be taking place.
I’ve mapped out several of these locations in my area and marked them on a physical map—just in case I lose power or cell service. I also keep an eye on local news and social media, using them like an early warning system to stay informed about where crowds are gathering.
But it’s not just about avoiding the known hotspots. If things get really heated, riots can move fast and spread into surrounding neighborhoods. That’s why I’m also aware of secondary areas—places like busy shopping centers or transit hubs—that could become unexpected flashpoints. My plan is to avoid being anywhere near those areas when things get tense.
2. Blending In to Stay Invisible
When it comes to riots, it’s all about blending in. You do not want to stand out—period.
I’ve put together what I like to call my “gray man” outfit. Nothing flashy, nothing that draws attention. A neutral-colored hoodie, jeans, and an old pair of sneakers.
You want to look like someone who’s just trying to get home, not someone who’s going to make headlines.
I also avoid anything that could make me a target—no political symbols, no flashy jewelry, and definitely no tactical gear that might suggest I’m looking for a fight. Blending in is about being forgettable. The more you look like everyone else, the less likely anyone is to take a second glance at you.
3. Stockpiling the Essentials
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from recent unrest, it’s that things can go sideways quickly. I’ve been making sure that my stockpile is well-equipped for a situation where I might not be able to leave my home for days, or even weeks. This includes the basics: food, water, first aid, and a way to keep warm if the power goes out.
I keep enough non-perishable food for at least two weeks—canned goods, pasta, and dry staples like rice and beans. Water is critical too; I have several 5-gallon containers stored, and I’ve also invested in a good water filter just in case. I’m not taking any chances with my medical supplies either. Bandages, antiseptics, and any prescription medications I need are all stocked up.
And let’s not forget about lighting and power. I’ve got a stash of batteries, flashlights, and a few solar-powered chargers for my devices. A blackout during a riot isn’t just inconvenient—it can be downright dangerous if you aren’t prepared. Something else I already recommended to my friends and I think it should not be missing from your home is a guide that will help you turn your house into the safest place on Earth.
4. Fortifying My Home
If riots do break out, my plan is to stay put and stay safe. To do that, I’ve been making sure my home is as secure as possible without looking like a fortress—again, it’s all about avoiding attention. I’ve installed reinforced door locks and added security film to my windows to make them harder to break.
I also keep heavy furniture near windows, ready to be moved as a barricade if necessary.
I’ve got a small, low-profile security camera system set up as well, so I can monitor what’s happening outside without having to go to a window and make myself visible. The goal is to make my home look like an unappealing target—nothing worth the effort for someone looking to cause trouble. A lot of these things I discovered in this guide that shows you how to bulletproof your home.
5. An Evacuation Plan
As much as I want to be ready to hunker down, I know that there might come a time when staying isn’t the best option. That’s why I have an evacuation plan. I’ve packed a “go-bag” with everything I might need if I have to leave in a hurry—food, water, clothing, important documents, cash, and a first aid kit.
Related: If You See These Signs, Civil Unrest Will Follow
I’ve also scouted out several routes out of my neighborhood. I’ve avoided the main roads, which could be blocked or patrolled, and instead found backstreets and lesser-known paths that I can take. My vehicle is kept in good condition, and I try to keep at least half a tank of gas at all times—I don’t want to be one of the people stuck in a gas station line when things go bad.
6. Keeping Communication Open
When things get chaotic, communication is key. I’ve got a few ways to keep in touch with family and friends if cell service goes down.
I use a set of walkie-talkies with a decent range, and I also have a small ham radio setup to stay informed.
It might sound like overkill, but in a situation where riots are spreading and information is scarce, it’s better to have options.
I’ve also established a simple check-in system with my family. If we’re separated, we have predetermined times to check in, and we know where to meet if we need to leave home. The idea is to have a plan that doesn’t rely on technology, just in case.
7. Self-Defense Without Escalation
While I hope it never comes to it, I am prepared to defend myself and my family if necessary.
I’ve taken self-defense classes and learned how to handle myself if things get physical.
I also keep a few tools handy—non-lethal options like pepper spray are my go-to because they offer protection without escalating a situation into something more deadly. And I also took a course on how to defend myself and my home. It’s taught by a former Navy SEAL so I trust the guy is showing the real deal.
I also have a legal firearm, but it’s a last resort. The goal is to avoid confrontation altogether, but if someone breaks into my home and my family is in danger, I need to be ready. That said, I know how important it is to use restraint—escalating a situation can make things infinitely worse, both legally and in terms of personal safety.
8. Mental Preparedness
All the gear in the world won’t matter if you’re not mentally prepared for what could happen. I’ve spent time thinking through different scenarios—what I’d do if rioters showed up on my street, if I had to leave home in the middle of the night, or if communication lines went down. Having a plan helps keep me calm, and calm people make better decisions.
I’ve also been practicing staying aware of my surroundings. If things get tense, situational awareness can mean the difference between staying safe and getting caught up in trouble. I avoid distractions when I’m out, and I’m always scanning for exits, potential threats, and the quickest way to get to safety.
Final Thoughts
The reality is that none of us knows what’s going to happen in January or beyond. Maybe everything will pass without incident, or maybe we’ll see unrest like we’ve seen before. Whatever happens, I’d rather be prepared and not need it than be caught off guard.
Staying safe during a riot isn’t about being a hero or taking sides. It’s about keeping your head down, making smart decisions, and being ready to adapt if things change. This is how I’m getting ready—maybe it’ll give you some ideas too. The best thing we can do is stay prepared, stay vigilant, and hope for the best while being ready for the worst.
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What Riots? Oh is that when the Democrats storm the Capital? Oh well, its ok, the MAGA maggots did it and all think that was perfectly ok, so its ok for the Democrats to do it.
Oh wait, then I’m thinking, Democrats are not the hot-headed angry idiots that cannot accept a loss. Oh that’s right.
Go back to sleep little one. Everything will be OK.
Marines have lowered Gate entrance speeds and Barriers in place. Restricted movement that should tell you what they are not telling you…..
“Democrats are not the hot-headed angry idiots that cannot accept a loss”. By August 2020 BLM injures 1000 police officers kills 36 people and does $8 billion in damage, yeah they’re not hot-headed idiots over the loss of one fentanyl criminal junkie. Got to love those that suffer from mental libtardation…
They are the ones backed by our government, don’t forget.
The 2 main ones antifa, BLM are definitely fed boys, they get away with everything from arson to murder and everything in between. Can you imagine if it was just the people without fed backing what would happen and right away at that not weeks or months later, no dismissed charges or slaps on the wrists either?
Anon , Hi… we the people need to know exactly who in our government is a part of this evil taking place and make sure they never get voted in again.
“MAGA maggots”
That is dehumanizing.
But kinda humorous 😀
Lisa, I guess you spend your time listening/watching the fake leftist news. Have you heard about the numerous FBI influencers that were in the crowd egging every one on in the supposed capital storm? The FBI is slowly owning up to this coverup. It’s just one point for you to check? There are others.
I don’t think any of the fake news stations covered these revelations in any detail, if at all.
Marines have lowered Gate entrance speeds and Barriers in place. Restricted movement that should tell you what they are not telling you…..
Hey, Lisa. How many buildings did the J6 “rioters” burn down? I’ll wait.
I want these in print form. If the emp, no electricity, no ability to charge laptop, etc. then how cam I refer to digital for refresher or to look for items that I need to do if I cant read them om hard copy??
You prepare for it.
SAS urban survival guide. Rear it and keep copy in go bag.
Printed books and 19th century manual tools and manual utensils. There are many resources for simple living without all the tech.
We left the city 45 years ago, the only riot I might see is if my neighbor’s geese get in my garden.
Claude
I enjoy your prospective and the ability to draw on what others have and or are experiencing.
I would like to see some brainstorming of what a small community can do to set up in preparation for the inevitable. When the fools of the big cities run out of what they think they deserve.
There are those like Lisa in every small town where they have turned their city or state into garbage dump, then move out because it is so bad. Then they are stupid enough to repeat the same dumb things all over again in your state or town and actually wonder why you don’t want to see a change to their perspective of “thinking”. They are the leeches we have to deal with (salt) individually. But as a whole; the establishing of a second tier of known community skill sets and pooling of them together with the mind set – your great grand parents in the 1800’s lived without all the conveniences we have, so you should be able to just as well especially with the knowledge of what can be achieved – but they did it by bartered skills and products as a community, not just as an individuals, but so they could stand together against a hord of fools. Bullies and communists have to know there are consiquences to their actions, Not everyone can move far enough away that the hords of fools will be Petered out before they reach you, and you can stand against a desperate few. And Lisa B.; your guilt confirms that you know you are wrong; just as you or the fools that are looking into countries that DON’T allow extradition during their next 4 years of “vacation” (starting Jan 20th). I don’t know why you keep returning to this site when you enjoy fake news and affirmation that the communist way of life is something of value.
Especially; when you know that everyone will face a justice that none will be able to run away from. And at that time; you will want to remove yourself from the face of this justice, but not until He gives you permission to leave. (by saying “go”) Then you will not stop going until you are at what is referred to as “the eternal lake of burning sulfur”, home at last and forever.
Poor Lisa.She’s off her meds again.There is only one
solution for her and people like her.
What do we do with a rabid dog? They can’t be saved!
Duh
I believe the violent protester for hire by the DNC is smarter than you think…realizing do to inflation of the past four years ,act’s of such evil is not going to be cheap any more. And the risk to reward ratio is not worth it. So the dumb a** dems are going to have to do their own dirty work….meaning the next four years is going to be fun to watch .The MAGA Sun will enlighten humanity . ☮
I can’t leave, and even if I could, I wouldn’t. My family and I are well armed, and well stocked with both food and water, and limited solar. We will fight for our little slice of heaven. I spent two years of my life tracking down,fighting and killing communists overseas.I will have no problem doing that here if needs be.
I believe every household should have a car/truck battery charger. When I was young and had my own car, it ran fine all the time. I never checked the battery. I took a 3hr trip on a country road and my car died while I was driving it. I had to let it roll to the shoulder (not very big). Somebody stopped to assist; and when I told him my car just died while driving it, he said I probably had a bad battery (and No I wasn’t running the radio nor an air-conditioner, fan, or heater back then). He jumped my battery and sent me to the nearest gas station to buy a new one. Lesson learned!. Generally car and truck batteries are fully charged at 12.8. They will drop in current charge every two tenths below 12.8. So 12.6 means it is 75% full-charged. And if you find 12.4 That is 50% full charge. and 12.2 is 25% full charge–but it also may mean that that your battery needs to be replaced if you drive long drives. With short ones, you can recharge it up every week or so before you drive–depending on where you live. In winter states bordering Canada, you might have trouble starting your car with a 25% (12.2) charge; where in a hot state you may not have problems, unless your are running every type of electrical device off your battery while driving. I have 2 cars with 4-5 year old batteries. Both registered 12.2 on my battery charger. I just checked them yesterday because by Sunday it is supposed to be -35 degrees below zero, and (12.2) will not work at -35 degrees below zero. Though I got the charge up higher, because it is old a lot of that “higher” will fade away quickly. One car, was at 12.2 just 6 weeks ago. I will get a new battery for at least one car, so one car is always ready. Anyone could be in deep-sh!t in a state or region wide crisis if everything shuts down and you never got a new battery; as well as in a forest fire, earthquake, tsunami, etc. .
Thanks, Radar. My car was a bit slow to start, this morning. Took two tries. I better check my battery.
AAA will deliver and install one for the lowest price around.
A good pair of battery cables in your vehicles can help alot of people in their time of need….
I keep the batteries charged in my 3 cars using an automatic trickle charger for each one. My batteries normally last 7 years. (Former mechanic, electrician, and RF engineer)
In L.A., we saw how Leftists handle things. Cut the Cops, cut the Firefighters. Disable 100+ fire vehicles because they cut out the mechanics to keep them operational. One MSM staffer was so smug, sitting on his patio in front of wide open picture windows and a house required by code to be sprinklered. No brush.clearance below him. He had a large pool but no fire pump, while the cover to a multi-acre-foot reservoir was out of commission for two years awaiting repair, and his City water went dry. All this while the Fire Chief is on record saying that her first and most important priority is to staff the Department with LGBTQ+Wokesters. I wonder if the fat lady could handle a 35-foot extension ladder.
If power is out and cell service is toast, I have no way to communicate except in person. I am deaf. I have recommended on here several times people might want to learn sign language. At least the alphabet to communicate silently. It can be used with binoculars very effectively. No power, no tower and the bad guys will triangulate hand helds. Using sign language is also useful with dogs. My dog knows 30 signs and does them. I also know it works in UCOIN scenarios because my team used it and no radios. ASL only and we beat the competition.
I did not know you were deaf….The one thing i don’t like about sign is it’s very distractive to those of us who are not deaf trying to focus on what is being said thats related to our safety also….Maybe technology will be able to by pass your damaged hearing some day…but i respect anyone who knows sign …. i barely know speech…..With the amount of ringing in my ears from my many years of work around loud noise’s i may need to learn sign .I understand it’s kool use in indiscreet communications….kool thanks .
Been trying to learn sign but I think I’m THAT old dog, or maybe I’m just too stupid. I did however buy my grandkids a book on sign language, I think they are using it to learn how to insult each other without their parents knowing.
I say to people, how long does it take to learn Spanish, Russian, Korean? It’s a language. With any language you are learning by repetition and practice. It is distracting when the interpreter is next to the speaker but when you are across a parking lot and local turds are causing trouble you can tell someone the situation silently. What’s more likely to be observed? A hand moving at chest level or voices shouted, whistling? There is no truly secure method. It’s just a thought to try and it works or it didn’t. That is the method in all things being prepared. Tailor it for your group. Evaluate. Another proven method is Morse code. Not many know that system anymore which could really be beneficial.
In all of this? Have your soul prepared.
I’m not sure what UCOIN means.
I learned the sign alphabet and Morse code as a kid but have forgotten most of both. I can sign “hi,” and “I love you”, and tap out SOS.
As mentioned, situational awareness is very important, but also important is our realistic expectation of what we can do if we find ourselves in a less than ideal scenario.
I am fairly fit, but know there’s no way I can run with an 80-lb pack on my back for any great distance if I need to grab and go. So I need to determine what I could truly carry if I needed to move on foot, or if having to leave with very young or very elderly, how best to navigate.
Besides Morse code, you might consider using other digital modes in the amateur radio service (some modes are like texting). A local ham radio club can help you get licensed and operational.
Thank u guys for good advice for us. I don’t think I have visited this site. But I have some new ideas thanks to all of you.
One of the top reasons I moved to a very rural area… Riots are not on my list, self preservation is #1 for me and my dog… I would say no one is truly ready for everything, but we are somewhat better off than most… Live Long and Prosper…
I know how to help show Lisa Blank some reality… publisize her lefttard lunacy along with her photo & address. Then the ones she supports so much will pay her unarmed home a visit for her migrant hospatality in person. Muzzis respect females so much.
Hey Gary…..I would like to study people like her…because she’s not alone…that’s for sure.I’m just guessing but i bet she’s a CNN or MSNBC watcher…in which case it’s not her fault she trusts what’s should be the truth but is not …Alot of the time.Her circle of friends and family could be just as miss informed as her for alot of reasons I will be the first to admit i also was clue less about politics…..People can change and will change if given the chance. It’s quite the spell millions of people are under….of course it’s just my opinion made up of many other people’s ideas and input…I really believe we are all at different levels of understanding politically and spiritually and if we think we know the only truth …we just stopped learning….Look at me ….defending Lisa…i think i need some sleep…….☮
I do agree with all you have expressed BUT the different kinds of damage that has been done SO FAR by her kind is almost unforgiveable. Seems to me a culling is a nesessity just to slow down the canserous infection in humanity.
Good luck with the pepper spray. I’m hopeful that your bad guy will respect you for your spray can, and leave you alone (NOT).
Me?………………LOCK AND LOAD, period !!!!
Darn it Kerry…..Are you some kind of Jedi Master….it does sound like the name of a high school maybe in Kansas somewhere…..I’m just happy Trump won….Just don’t mandate any experimental warp speed drugs on us any more ….and you should be fine…remember all the sports athletes dropping dead on the fields during that time period……big pharma needs to get out of my face….the fact a sugar pill is successful 30% of the time …makes me wonder a little….every commercial is about some kind of disease makes me sick….They make way to much money for treating we the people like lab rats…….There i said it…
No need to fret this time ….. the Screwball was elected in again ….. by fellow screwballs !! Bottom line .
Hi ridge runner…..I’m curious…..who would you vote in ?
You don’t have to answer that….you can call me a screwball if you want….god know’s I’ve been called worse it’s kind of a badge of honor …..up grade from a maggot….don’t worry if your patient they will grow wing’s and fly away…Peace
SpongeBob !! Now there’s a class act !!
Well were off to a new start ..
2025 President Trump is under way with the clean up.
The rebuilding of our nation..
Preserving our freedoms.
And the Dems are having a melt down.
Could it lead to flooding.
Out with the Dems and in with a whole new system we can build on
for the coming future of the UNITED STATES