Jim,
Reading through the reams of articles and blogs concerning New Orleans, this AP piece stood out. Notice that the person profiled is apparently a Vietnam veteran who had stockpiled food, fuel and firearms, lived in the war zone, and seemed to be just fine without bugging out. And it made me think…
Yeah, we all want a ‘retreat’ – but this may be possible for less than 1 percent of Americans. Are we as survivalists ignoring the efforts of the folks that are prepared to sit in place in an urban setting? What training or informational resources would be appropriate to their situation? I realize it’s just about the same as for those of us who can buy/stock a retreat – but are there any specific things an urban dwellers needs to do differently? Just a few thoughts on this matter:
Blackout curtains
Generator noise reduction (if used)
Disease risks with sewage/garbage system failures
Plans for an urban privy
Rooftop or backyard cisterns
JWR Adds: Don’t forget a method for drawing, transporting and purifying water!
Just a side note… I have attempted to volunteer to work as a police officer in New Orleans and Jefferson Parish providing my own food/shelter and doing so without pay. I have not been rebuffed, but even FEMA has/had NO IDEA what to do with my offer or suggestions on a point of contact. I am a peace officer in Colorado, and can get the time off. Telephonic attempts, e-mail, all without answer.
Nobody seems to know who would coordinate these things. It had been suggested to me that I simply show up to volunteer – but this didn’t seem to be the best course – I kept telling myself that SOMEONE would contact me. Apparently there is no administrative infrastructure left at these two police agencies.
Contrast this attempt with that of a buddy of mine who contacted Gulfport PD in Mississippi – got asked by a deputy chief to ‘come on down’ the same day he contacted them to volunteer. – L.D. in Colorado