Throughout history groups of people have gathered together for survival against nature and each other. It seems that these groups fall into two main categories. The first are those that prepare themselves by ensuring a food source through husbandry and agriculture. The second group survive off the first. For the purpose of this post, I will call them the Growers and Foragers.
Forager groups have included large tribes like the Comanche, or the Huns, as well as smaller groups of bandits and gangs, for example. Historically, people that wish to retain security, have others who survive by taking it away from them.
When the SHTF there will be a breakdown of social order. Crime will be rampant, as experienced in cities like New Orleans. Five years of food, agricultural sustainability, off-grid power, a clean water supply, etc. will provide an appealing target to others.
I think the best prevention of conflict lies in secrecy. This is however more difficult than it first appears. I'm interested in better understanding the methods that members use in protecting what they are building. No doubt there are those who purchase a shotgun, handgun and feel that those are the only steps necessary...
None you improvise, one (or more) is luxury.
I make a point of people being able to see zero from the road. Other than the no trespassing and beware of dog signs. (Required by law)
Other neighbors clear the land between the road and then pimp up their house in some sort of penis measuring contest; me, not so much. Make sure yours is the least appealing to potential burglars/marauders. Keep any easily pawned goodies out of sight.
If shtf, you can 'camo' up the house by making it look "pre-looted" by someone else. Meaning discarded sh*t on the front lawn, some black spray paint to make it look like smoke damage, and using the back entrance only. And for goodness sakes, stop manicuring the foliage:)
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One is none, two is one.
I should add; if you're reverting to the shotgun, you've basically failed at your mission. Who knows how tacticool th other guy is. He may have been a champion IPSC or 3-gun shooter. I place you odds of injury at >50%!
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One is none, two is one.
Interesting perspectives...
Wayne writes, " When SHTF..."
Jonesy replys, "If SHTF..."
My advice. Don't live in a US city the size of New Orleans, which is on a geological fault, or on a flood plain, or is a political hotspot. (I'd be willing to include Toronto, Quebec City, and Vancouver. Winnipeg?)
I've written on the subject before and ask again; If the SHTF in Canada, Do you think anyone in the hamlet of Barons Alberta would even notice? How about Melfort, Saskatchewan? The point being that small communities have a tendency to self police and regulate. They pull together when a neighbour runs into trouble, and make sure everyone knows when a community member betrays the trust of the group. On the flip side, they tend to gossip and mind your business. There is, after all, a price to be paid for the Social Contract.
If you are looking to Hollywood to describe what SHTF looks like, I would direct you to American Beauty instead of World War Z, the first being FAR more likely than the latter.
Needs must when the devil drives.
American beauty, classic neighborhood breakdown!
I realize you are totally right, antsy. I wrote "If". But I seem to plan for "when". Not sure if it's paranoia, or general preparedness lifestyle...
I still think Barons and Melfort would have big issues, especially when the marked gas or diesel stops arriving!
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One is none, two is one.
Perhaps you're right. but I've investigated stabbings, robberies and a homicide in rural Canada. Surprisingly, these crimes are not solely restricted to large cities. I have also had "business relationships" with drug users who would cut your head off for a fix (although this has been in and around the city of Toronto).
Statistically the projection of violence is apportioned largely by population density, although regionalization is a factor. Where ever there are people, there is potential for violent crime. It exists everywhere, even when the power is on and people are fed.
Granted that places like the ones you mentioned have lower crime rates than the larger cities, but IF the SHTF, where do you think these people will go? It's understandable that if you are fortunate enough to live on a lake in the NWT accessible only by air, that they will not be coming to your home. If however, you are not as fortunate I believe that it is reasonable that you prepare. I am of the opinion that Security is just as important as other precautions that I need to take.
reside 3 miles outside of a small town in Nova Scotia. In 2012 Halifax had a population of about 300,000 people (certainly not the largest Canadian city). That year it experienced 56 shootings and 12 murders; the highest amount of violent crime in Canada that year.
It is also unlikely that you know of the criminal past of the man working for your neighbour. In-fact you may have already hired someone with a history of violence. Don't kid yourself that you know the background of everyone you come in contact with.
None you improvise, one (or more) is luxury.
