How to Drag a Body and Other Safety Tips You Hope to Never Need

1. Prepare for the unexpected: Plan, assess risks, and have an emergency kit

"As Confucius once said, 'He who fails to prepare, prepares to fail.' Or as I like to say, 'Without proper planning, you're screwed.'"

Plan ahead. Anticipate potential risks and create contingency plans for various scenarios. This includes having an exit strategy, emergency contacts, and a realistic assessment of worst-case scenarios. Develop a communication plan with designated point persons who can relay information to others in case of emergencies.

Assemble an emergency kit. Include essential items such as:

• First aid supplies
• Non-perishable food and water
• Flashlight and batteries
• Hand-crank radio
• Cash
• Important documents
• Medications

Practice and rehearse. Regularly review and update your plans, and conduct drills to ensure you and your family are prepared to act quickly in an emergency.

2. Develop situational awareness and trust your instincts in dangerous situations

"Scope the scene. Some people's instinctual response when they witness a shooting or see a dead body is 'I'm going in.' That's fine in principle, but not always wise."

Be observant. Pay attention to your surroundings, identifying potential threats and escape routes. Look for anything out of the ordinary, such as suspicious behavior or unattended packages.

Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Don't ignore your instincts in favor of politeness or fear of embarrassment. Be prepared to act quickly if you sense danger.

Develop a "what if" mindset. Regularly consider how you would respond to various emergencies in your current location. This mental preparation can help you react more effectively in a real crisis.

3. Master essential first aid skills to handle emergencies and save lives

"Being skilled and forward-thinking is potentially lifesaving. Flight attendants on airplanes gesticulate toward the oxygen mask, but how many of us pay attention?"

Learn basic first aid. Take courses in CPR, wound care, and how to use an AED. Practice these skills regularly to maintain proficiency.

Key first aid skills to master:

• Controlling bleeding
• Performing CPR
• Treating burns
• Recognizing signs of shock
• Handling choking emergencies

Carry a first aid kit. Keep a well-stocked kit in your home, car, and when traveling. Familiarize yourself with its contents and how to use them effectively.

4. Navigate protests and civil unrest safely by staying vigilant and prepared

"Don't let the experience interfere with creative juices. Now's a good opportunity to write that novel you always talked about. You'll find lots of solitude when everyone refuses to speak to one another."

Stay informed. Research the nature of the protest and potential risks before attending. Be aware of local laws regarding demonstrations and your rights as a participant.

Dress appropriately. Wear comfortable, protective clothing and sturdy shoes. Avoid anything that could be mistaken for aggressive intent or make you a target.

Have an exit strategy. Identify multiple escape routes and safe locations. Stay on the periphery of crowds for easier movement. Be prepared to leave quickly if the situation escalates.

5. Protect yourself from natural disasters with proper planning and supplies

"Whether or not you believe in climate change, Mother Nature doesn't care. She just does what she does. And she's been truly vicious lately, unleashing disasters of spiraling frequency and force."

Know your risks. Research the types of natural disasters common in your area and understand the warning signs.

Create a disaster plan. Develop and practice evacuation procedures with your family. Identify safe meeting points and out-of-area contacts.

Prepare your home. Take steps to mitigate potential damage:

• Secure loose objects
• Reinforce windows and doors
• Elevate important items in flood-prone areas
• Install safety devices like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers

6. Enhance personal safety and prevent assault through awareness and assertiveness

"Being skilled and forward-thinking is reassuring as well as potentially lifesaving."

Be proactive. Trust your instincts and remove yourself from uncomfortable situations. Set clear boundaries and communicate them assertively.

Learn self-defense. Take classes to build confidence and learn effective techniques for protecting yourself.

Use the buddy system. Travel in groups when possible, especially in unfamiliar or high-risk areas. Let others know your plans and expected return times.

7. Safeguard your digital life with strong cybersecurity practices

"Behavior modification is as important as using protective software."

Use strong, unique passwords. Create complex passwords for each account and consider using a password manager.

Enable two-factor authentication. Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

Be cautious online. Avoid clicking suspicious links, downloading unknown attachments, or sharing sensitive information on unsecured networks.

Keep software updated. Regularly update your devices and applications to protect against known vulnerabilities.

8. Build emotional resilience to cope with trauma and stress

"Humor more than anything else, he explained, 'can afford an aloofness and an ability to rise above any situation.'"

Develop healthy coping mechanisms. Engage in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet, and prioritize sleep to support your mental health.

Seek support. Build a network of trusted friends, family, or professionals to talk to during difficult times.

Practice self-care. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could include hobbies, meditation, or spending time in nature.

Maintain perspective. Remember that healing takes time and that it's normal to experience a range of emotions after a traumatic event. Seek professional help if you're struggling to cope.

Last updated: August 21, 2024