Fortunately, most people will never be in a position where they are in close proximity to a riot. However, in the interest of personal safety, it is always best to be prepared in case you are encountered with this situation. Though rare, riots can break out even in well-respected communities.
After Hurricane Katrina, the rioting and looting that occurred in New Orleans was severe enough to interfere with rescue efforts. In 1992, the riots in Los Angeles lasted for several days, with over 2,000 documented injuries. In June of 2009, thousands of rioters trashed downtown LA after a sporting event, even setting fire to at least once police car. In the case that you ever have to encounter this dangerous situation, there are some things that you can do to keep your family safe.
A riot is defined as a form of civil disorder participated in by a gathering of people, who act out due to an undesirable situation. This situation may be increased taxes, high unemployment, the result of a sporting event or unpopular governmental decisions. Though riots are more common in third-world countries, it’s still important that you know the basics of surviving a riot, so that you can act quickly in a worst-case scenario.
How Can I Keep My Family Safe During a Riot?
Stay Indoors!
The most important thing to remember during a riot is that you are safest if you stay indoors. The behavior of a riot crowd can be unpredictable, and you are always safest if you remain out of the way of the rioters.
Stay Away from Windows.
Due to the sometimes violent nature of rioters, it’s best if you stay as far away from the windows and doors in your home as possible. This can prevent you from becoming unnecessarily injured by gunfire, glass, bricks or other dangerous materials.
Remain Calm.
By not panicking, you are increasing your ability to think clearly in a difficult situation. If you are able to force yourself to remain calm, you have a greater chance of making rational decisions that will ensure the safety of both you and your family.
Your Safety is Most Important.
If the situation escalates to the point where you believe that your home is in danger of being looted, or that your life is in danger, leave immediately.Your safety is more important than any possessions that are inside your home. Do not try to take anything with you, except for the members of your household.
Have an Exit Route.
In the event that you do need to leave your home quickly, it’s best if you have a quick way to exit your home. Having an exit route is a good way to ensure that your family will be able to leave the house on short notice during any sort of safety situation.
What Should I Do if I’m Away From Home?
Be Prepared.
Though riots are often difficult to predict, if you are traveling in an area that is a known place of civil unrest, there are certain things that you can do to keep yourself safe. Wear clothes that cover all of your exposed skin, and that fit in with the local dress. It’s important that you blend in, and do not appear to distinguish yourself in any way. Rioters can be unpredictable, and you may be the target for violence if you stand out as an outsider.
Have an Escape.
During a riot, it’s important that you get as far away from the rioting crowd as possible. If you are in an area that you know well, this may be easy for you. However, if you are in an unfamiliar area, you may have a bit more difficulty. Before traveling to an unfamiliar area, it’s best if you have a general idea of how to make your way around the area without attracting too much attention.
