How to Create a Bug Out Strategy for Your Family

Introduction

When disaster strikes, it’s important to have a plan in place for how you will evacuate your family. Bugging out is not a decision that should be made lightly – it can be dangerous and stressful. But if done correctly, it can also be the best option for ensuring the safety of your loved ones. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps you need to take to create a bug out strategy for your family.

What is a bug out strategy and why do you need one?

A bug out strategy is a plan for how you will evacuate your family in the event of an emergency. This could be anything from a natural disaster to a civil unrest situation. Having a plan in place ahead of time will help you to stay calm and focused if an emergency does occur. It will also ensure that everyone in your family knows what is required for each step of the evacuation process.

The basics of creating a bug out strategy

The best bug out strategies are usually the simplest ones. You don’t want to have to remember a lot of steps or details in the middle of an emergency situation. The basics of any bug out strategy should include the following:

A designated meeting place

This is where everyone in your family will meet if you are forced to evacuate your home. Choose a spot that is close enough to home. If possible, pick a landmark that is easily visible and familiar to everyone.

A communication plan

In the event that you are separated from your family, you will need a way to communicate with them. Make sure everyone has a list of emergency contact numbers. It is also a good idea to have a designated person who will be responsible for coordinating any evacuation efforts.

An evacuation route

Plan out a few different routes that you can take to get to your meeting place. If possible, choose routes that avoid major highways and populated areas. Remember to account for any special needs that your family members may have.

Putting your bug out strategy into action

It’s always a good idea to have a plan in place for any eventuality. By taking the time to create a bug out strategy for your family, you can rest assured that everyone will know what to do in the event of an emergency. It’s a good idea to trial the strategy before disaster actually happens. This way, you can identify any potential problems and make changes to the plan as necessary.

Bug out bag essentials

If you haven’t already read my post on ‘What should I put in a bug out survival bag’ I would suggest you have a read of that one. It contains all the items that you should have already packed and ready to go if the situation arises.

I also have another article you may find interesting, that is ‘The Ultimate Children’s Survival Kit which you can read here.

If you haven’t had time to put together your own bug out bag and you need to leave quickly. The list below will outline the must have items that you can quickly gather in short notice.

Essentials items for bug out bag:

Backpack: Getting a good quality and durable backpack. Purchase one that is sturdy, water proof and good quality. You wont know what conditions you will be faced with.

Water: Have at least one or two water bottles and purification tables. Also water filtration straw is a great idea.

Power bank: Preferably a solar powered.

Compass: Signal mirror and whistle

Map: A map of the area your going to.

First Aid Kit: A good quality first aid kit for each bag is essential.

Emergency blanket: This could be extremely valuable for cold climates and staying outdoors overnight.

Two way radio: These could come in handy if you are separated or need to get help to a member of the group.

Knife: A good quality pocket knife is fine for a bug out bag,

Saw: This is especially handy to cut wood for shelter or making a fire.

Fire making tools: Any type of gas lighters would be my first choice.

Food: Have some type of food that could see you through at least for 2 days.

If you can quickly muster these items at a pinch then throw them in a bag. If it’s not possible to get all these items get what you can from the list and get moving.

Ideally of course it’s always good to be prepared and having a bug out bag prepared and ready to go is the ideal situation.

Check out my ‘Ultimate list of bug out items’

What to do if you have to evacuate

If the need arises and it’s time to evacuate, the first thing you need to do is remain calm. Take a few deep breaths and think clearly. This is not the time to panic as it will only cloud your judgement.

Once you have gathered your thoughts, start by waking up your family and explain the situation calmly. If you have young children, try not to scare them but advise them of the urgency.

It may happen that the situation is dire and it’s during the day and people of the household out. This is where having up to date contact details are vital. Also having already prepared a spot to meet can save lives and keep yourselves together.

Final thoughts

The key aspect of a bug out strategy is for everyone to be on the same page. The bug out plan doesn’t have to be elaborate, in fact, simple bug out plans are the best. Keep it simple so it makes it easy for everyone to follow easily and quickly. One of the most important aspects of the plan is to have you bug out bag ready. These bug out bags are designed to contain the items that will be needed in times of strife. Once the disaster starts you wont get much chance to round up the essentials you need that could potentially save your life and your loved ones.