Top 5 Places to Avoid During SHTF

Arm Yourself with Knowledge and Training... Stay Safe. Live Smart. Spend Less. Be Ready...

EMERGENCY PREP

9/1/20243 min read

Top 5 Places to Avoid During SHTF

In a SHTF (Sh*t Hits the Fan) scenario, chaos, confusion, and danger can spread rapidly. Understanding which locations to avoid can significantly increase your chances of survival. Here are the top five places to steer clear of when a disaster strikes.

1. Urban Centers

Urban areas are often the first places to descend into chaos during a SHTF scenario. The high population density means that resources will deplete quickly, leading to panic, looting, and violence. Emergency services can become overwhelmed or entirely non-functional, leaving you vulnerable. Roads can quickly become clogged with people trying to escape, making travel nearly impossible. The lack of space and secure locations makes it difficult to protect yourself from both the elements and other desperate individuals.

Why to Avoid:

High population density increases the risk of violence.
Rapid depletion of resources like food, water, and medical supplies.
Increased likelihood of government lockdowns or martial law.

Alternatives:

Suburban or rural areas where populations are smaller and there’s more space to maneuver.

2. Shopping Centers and Grocery Stores

In the initial hours and days of a crisis, grocery stores, shopping malls, and big-box retailers will be overrun by people looking to stock up on supplies. These places can quickly turn into hotbeds of violence as people fight over the dwindling resources. The risk of encountering desperate, aggressive individuals is high, and you might find yourself trapped in a volatile situation with little means of escape.

Why to Avoid:

High likelihood of encountering aggressive and desperate crowds.
Rapid depletion of essential supplies, leading to dangerous situations.
Stores may become targets for looting and criminal activity.

Alternatives:

Pre-stock supplies and focus on home-based storage. Consider local, smaller stores if absolutely necessary.

3. Hospitals and Medical Centers

While it might seem logical to seek out medical help during a disaster, hospitals can quickly become overwhelmed with the injured and sick. The sheer volume of people seeking medical attention can lead to long wait times, reduced care quality, and even violent outbreaks as people demand treatment. Additionally, hospitals might run out of supplies or become targets for those seeking drugs and other resources.

Why to Avoid:

Overwhelming demand leading to inadequate care.
Increased risk of exposure to contagious diseases.
Potential for violence as tensions rise among the injured and desperate.

Alternatives:

Stock up on basic medical supplies and learn first aid to handle minor injuries at home. Identify and establish contact with local medical professionals who may offer help privately.

4. Government Buildings and Military Bases

Government facilities and military bases might seem like safe havens, but they can quickly become targets during a SHTF scenario. These locations may be under strict control or lockdown, making it difficult to access necessary resources. Additionally, they could become targets for attack by groups looking to disrupt order or seize control. The presence of armed personnel can also pose a threat, especially if martial law is declared.

Why to Avoid:

High risk of becoming a target for attacks or insurgencies.
Potential for being trapped in a government lockdown or martial law situation.
Restricted access and increased surveillance could lead to detainment.

Alternatives:

Stay informed through reliable sources and avoid these areas unless absolutely necessary. If needed, maintain a low profile when traveling near these locations.

5. Highways and Major Roads

During a crisis, highways and major roads can quickly become gridlocked with people trying to evacuate. These congested areas are prime targets for criminals looking to exploit stranded motorists. Additionally, travel becomes slow, and you may find yourself stuck in an exposed location with limited options for escape or defense. Fuel shortages can also turn highways into massive parking lots, leaving you stranded.

Why to Avoid:

High risk of becoming stuck in traffic or being targeted by criminals.
Limited ability to escape or defend yourself.
Fuel shortages and roadblocks can trap you in vulnerable positions.

Alternatives:

Plan alternative routes using secondary roads or backroads. Consider traveling by foot or bicycle if necessary, and avoid peak evacuation times.

Conclusion

In a SHTF scenario, avoiding certain locations can be the difference between life and death. By steering clear of these five high-risk areas, you can improve your chances of survival and protect yourself from the chaos that inevitably ensues. Always have a well-thought-out plan, stock up on essential supplies, and stay informed to navigate the challenges of any crisis.