When an emergency or disaster strikes, it’s not always just the lack of basic necessities that people need to worry about. In crisis scenarios, individuals and communities must also face security threats such as looting, violence and becoming targets for gangs.
Gangs have been a problem in cities for decades. When society collapses, the absence of law enforcement and military personnel to enforce order will create a vacuum that gangs will exploit. Paradoxically, even some well-intentioned preppers and survivalists can inadvertently create favorable conditions for gang activity after SHTF.
Why Will Gangs Thrive After Shtf?
After a disaster or collapse situation occurs, several factors will contribute to the rise of gangs. First, food and water shortages will cause widespread panic and desperation among the population. This panic will result in households becoming targets for robbery and possibly even assault by criminals who are acting out of desperation.
Secondly, law enforcement agencies such as police departments will be either too few or too overwhelmed to maintain control of violent crime-related incidents. This means that gangs will be able to operate without much resistance from authorities.
Thirdly, in many urban areas where populations are dense, living conditions may become extremely tough due to issues such as overcrowding (due to displaced persons), electricity blackouts and loss of sanitation (due to a lack of running water). These harsh conditions make them more susceptible to gang infiltration.
Fourthly, when all hell breaks loose after an event like a terrorist attack or natural disaster (hurricane Katrina), people tend to break up into groups seeking safety. Gangs take advantage of this situation by posing as protectors offering safety in exchange for money, food or other valuables.
Fifthly – this is where preparedness people enter the equation – preppers sometimes tend towards isolationism which could make them vulnerable when faced with the threat of gangs. Being a prepper doesn’t automatically make you equipped to defend against a gang of marauders, which is why it’s important for them to collaborate with like-minded individuals and groups.
What Can Be Done?
It’s hard to completely eliminate the risk of gangs in urban areas post-SHTF, but there are things that can be done to minimize the risk. First, law enforcement agencies must be utilized before and during a crisis as much as possible. Police should actively work to eliminate any existing gang activity before SHTF.
Secondly, people should take steps to prepare themselves for potential security issues by acquiring necessary knowledge and skills needed for defense. This includes self-defense training, weapons handling and knowledge of tactical strategies.
Thirdly, outreach programs can also be used as an effective way to prevent kids from joining gangs by giving them purpose and positive role models.
Fourthly, it’s important to work together with neighbors and other like-minded individuals or groups so that everyone can watch each other’s back in times of crisis.
Conclusion
Gangs will continue being a thorn in the side of many cities for years to come. In urban areas where infrastructure may already be weak after natural disasters or economic downturns have taken place – they are even more susceptible towards violence. It is necessary to prepare and take action against any potential threats that may arise after SHTF. Ensuring security will require active efforts from local authorities as well as individual citizens working together for their own survival.