Hammer, meet nail. Having a defensible space is the key and in most cases, that “space” is not in your current neighborhood. Later this year, Mrs. Spook and I will begin looking for a small, hilltop cabin about 3-4 hours from our home. If we can’t find one, we’ll build it—the cabin will become our retirement home in a few years. In the meantime, we can stockpile long-term survival supplies at the location, along with what we need to defend it. We’ll register our 4WD vehicle in that area, and shift our residency down there as well. When SHTF, and the locals are turning away outsiders, having the right plates on your car (and registration in your glove box) can mean the difference between getting in and being turned away.
Without going into details, we have what we need to get from our current home to the bug-out location quickly. Knowing when to leave is also essential. Better to err on the side of caution and leave ahead of the masses; by then, it’s too late. I’m also leery of plans to organize the neighborhood; unfortunately, most suburbanites don’t have any interest in doing that and when the brown stuff hits the fan blades, it will be too late.
true what you say. I am blessed to live in a small neighborhood in the PNW. When I’m in Hawaii, I would survive quite well if I were a cannibal because 99% of the people in Kailua couldn’t function with a one day shut down of the local Whole Foods grocery store.
My whole response was not to offend anyone who has a great bug out plan. It looks like you have a great opportunity being where you are and I’m envious of your ability to have a cabin in the woods. The great many of us do not have the ability or luxury of a cabin in the woods and many do not have the health and ability to make the journey. I overlooked large cities. Certainly being in Los Angeles is different than Sandpoint. In LA, you’re screwed regardless of your preparations and I do believe in that situation your best bet is to stay put IF you don’t have somewhere to go. If you walk out your door with your BOB, wife, and 3 kids in tow, you are a refugee at the mercy of your surroundings. At that point, I can’t say what is better. Stay put, or BO.