G.O.O.D (Get Out of Dodge/Bugging Out)

Getting Out of Dodge

The first step to G.O.O.D is to plan for it! In the spare of the moment in a disaster there isn't going to be time for a long discussion of where to go. So, have it down ahead of time!

Keep in Mind: Where to go will depend on what the danger is.

An example of this would be having a great bug-out location that has many ideal features. It is located off the beaten path, has a building or two pre-stocked with necessities, alternative energy options, a source of fresh water..the works; but is relatively near a potential target of let’s say a possible major terrorist attack.    

(I know, I know….just play along for a minute)

In this event, that location would be a no go! It’s too close for comfort, but now let’s suppose the threat is not one of terrorism instead it’s a civil unrest situation (looting/rioting/etc). The location is far enough away (30-50 miles) from your suburban residence and it’s very rural, it’s stocked, and it’s much safer for you. In that situation, this bug-out location has just become much more ideal assuming you can get there safely, right?

(Btw: What Types of Locations Could Be Targets? Check Out 6 Vulnerable Potential Terrorist Targets)

The Point: Plan For Different Scenarios 

Step 1: The Plan

A Main Bug-Out Location

Secondary Location

If Going to a Friend or Relatives- ASK Them Ahead of Time if in an Emergency Situation Can You Go There?

(They Might Not Have Room or Supplies For You & Others - NEVER Assume It’s Just Okay)

Who is Going?

What to Begin Storing/Preparing?

(Food, Water, Fire-Starters, Water Filtration & Medical Supplies, Weapons, Bug-Out Bag, etc.)

What Supplies Will You Take and/or Have Previously Stored at the Location?

What Skills Do You (family members and/or group) Need to Learn BEFOREHAND?

Step 2: Teach the Plan

Gather Your Family or Group

Discuss & Adjust the Plan (if needed)

Discuss Concerns

Agree on Expectations

WRITE it DOWN

Step 3: Practice the Plan Regularly

Practice Makes Progress towards Proficiency – Twice a Month!

(This helps cut down on bug-out time, get’s everyone into the routine comfortably, and Helps You to Know of Current Road Closings & Detours)

Have at Least 3 Routes To your Location

(Consider: Jammed Highways, Closed Roads, Detours)

Take a Map & Compass !!!

(You May Have to Go on Foot, Make Sure You Are Proficient With Map Reading. If You Are Taking Small Children, Tether Them to YOU in Crowds if They Can Not Be Carried & Keep Them Within an Arms Reach While Going at it on Foot!)

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Author Information:

 Sharon Pannell is a self proclaimed "Prepsteader", both prepper and homesteader. She authors the blog The Trailer Park Homesteader where she teaches others about the importance of disaster preparedness and self-sufficiency. Sharon believes everyday the stuff can hit the fan, it is not one big epic event necessarily and it only takes one set back to create a hardship; so big or small prepare for it all ! Along with her blog, Sharon can also be found managing her other social media sites including her Facebook Page The Trailer Park Homesteader, TTPH Pinterest Page, and TTPH Twitter Page.