A frank reality is that home defense is something everyone needs to plan for.
Although crime may be very low in your area, that can change quickly. Plenty of high crime areas started as nice safe communities.
Many factors have contributed to areas becoming unsafe. The economic conditions due to COVID-19 have pushed many people into precarious financial straits. And when people are desperate, they’ll do things they would never have previously considered.
Similarly, the opioid crisis is directly linked to a rise in various crimes in communities and cities throughout America where use of these drugs is high.
Making the situation worse, a growing number of police officers are quitting due to lack of public support and/or open hostility towards them (e.g., “Defund the police!”). Fewer officers mean slower response times.
And for some crimes, police departments have informed residents that they won’t even send an officer out. Theft under $1,000 is not even considered a major crime in most cities and towns now.
Feb. 3, 2021 at 4:00 a.m. PSTThe two epochal events of 2020 — the coronavirus pandemic and the nationwide protests over police violence — were likely factors in the increase in slayings, two of the report’s authors said. The pandemic limited proactive anti-crime strategies by both police and social workers, commission director Thomas Abt said, and reduced focus on urban hot spots known to be large sources of violence.
The same article above points out that other violent crimes are down, but these statistics are misleading. If a crime (e.g., robbery or rape) escalates to murder, it’s counted as murder. So it’s improbable that other forms of violent crime haven’t risen, too.
If you live in a rural area, it can take more than 30 minutes to get any help at all if you find yourself in a violent situation. This is why it’s so important to take the initiative to have a good defense plan in place.
Reaction To Violence
Many Americans are familiar with physical violence only through moves, television and video games.
Unless employed in the military, the police or a hospital, the closest most may come to it is perhaps a childhood fistfight at school.
Understanding how many modern American’s may react to violence is critical to keeping you and your family safe. Because they don’t understand it well, they don’t take it seriously.
A recent example of this is shown in this graphic video from Pennsylvania (warning: graphic subject material):
Neighbors start out fighting verbally, and then one pulls a gun. The woman in the video doesn’t run or take cover; in fact, she continues to taunt the enraged man and pulls out her cell phone to video everything. She lost her life.
We can learn from this incident the importance of backing off and not escalating the situation when someone is clearly acting irrationally. While there was a lot of name-calling and taunting before the couple was gunned down, there was plenty of time for them to run to safety or call law enforcement if they’d so chosen.
If you watched any of the live broadcasts of civil unrest during the spring and summer of 2020, you would have seen many similar incidents where people ignored just how dire the situation was.
One video that particularly stood out to me is this one from Atlanta back in June:
This was Atlanta last night. pic.twitter.com/0tCsOUcAXX
— Grace 🔎 (@reallygraceful) June 20, 2020
Even with people yelling “get down” and the sound of gunfire all around, the unfortunate girl in this video appears to have kept walking towards the danger rather than taking cover.
She wasn’t the only one. Only after the girl gets shot do you see the majority of people sheltering or running.
You need to remind yourself and your family that violence is chaotic. They’re not safe just because they aren’t the initial target. Bystanders or family members of intended targets get hurt or killed all the time.
Don’t go towards the violence! If you find yourself near it, take cover or getaway as quickly as possible, depending on the situation.
Security Solutions For Home, Farm Or Office
I like to think of defense in layers.
Your first layer is your property line. A lot of people like to have a fence along this perimeter as the first layer of defense.
Inner layers can consist of driveway alarms, gates, dogs, and finally, well-fortified doors and windows.
In-home defenses include alarms, safes, your weapons of choice, and maybe even a safe room if you want to take things to another level.
Window Security Film
Over the years, I’ve often recommended window security film as an inexpensive and straightforward way to make your home or business more secure.
The film consists of a thick plastic that prevents the glass from breaking into dangerous shards. This makes it useful not only for preventing robberies and intruders but for protecting your family from projectiles during hurricanes, storms, and civil unrest.
Some of you may remember that massive explosion that happened at the docks in Beirut. A lot of injuries came from broken glass. But if windows with security film on them don’t turn into extra sharp shards when blown out, thus greatly reducing the potential for injuries.
This film is usually transparent, but there are mirrored or tinted options so that people can’t see into your home or car, but you can see out.
Window Alarms
Major online retailers like Amazon sell many different alarms that attach to windows and make loud high-pitched noise if the window is opened. These alarms are inexpensive (so renters or those living in dormitories should buy them, too).
Know Your Access Points
The more points of access there are to your property, the easier it is to breach. You want at least on security feature in place at each access point.
Don’t forget to consider easy non-traditional approaches, either. If someone can walk through an area easily and stay concealed, consider that a security threat.
Door Fortifications
Any exterior door is a security hazard.
Luckily there are plenty of inexpensive ways to prevent your door from being pried open or busted down. For extra security, you can use a combination of the options listed below:
Armor Concepts
Armor Concepts is a company that sells easy to install door reinforcement kits for regular and mobile home doors. All you need is a good screwdriver, but the job is a lot easier with a cordless drill.
This is a solution that renters can use without causing any unsightly or noticeable changes to the door.
Door Bars
A modern door bar is an improved version of a board slid into two holders across a door. One doesn’t cost a lot and greatly multiplies the force needed to break your door in.
Door Stops
A doorstop attaches to the floor (see photo above) and like a door bar, makes it substantially harder for a burglar to force your door open.
Some versions feature a floor plate with a separate piece that slides in when you want to secure your door, while others have a heavy piece that drops in.
Replace the screws on your door hardware with longer ones
Replacing screws can be accomplished for just a few dollars per door and adds a lot of strength to your door.
Chain Locks & Deadbolts
Don’t underestimate the power of a good chain lock.
Sometimes a chain lock is the last lock that fails on a door. I was amazed to learn this on a MythBusters episode. I had fully expected that a little chain lock would be the *weakest* link.
A good deadbolt is a significant help, too.
In areas where crime is on the rise or is a continuing problem, multiple locks and door reinforcements are a good idea.
Garage Doors
A lot of robberies occur via the door of an attached garage. These doors are generally easier to get open than the front or rear doors of your home.
So the door that goes from your garage into your home needs to be well reinforced, too, and kept locked.
Also, a more robust and secure garage door is advisable if you own your home. If you rent, consider what you store in your garage wisely.
Garages are also a tempting spot for criminals to hide and wait on you. There have been cases of people waiting outside and running in as the door is opened and closed. You need to be alert and observant during these times, which can be difficult when all you want to do is take your shoes off after a long workday.
Motion Sensors and Lighting
Lighting that comes on when motion is detected can deter trespassers from going any further. It also allows you with a well-lit area when you return home after dark.
Cameras
There is a huge selection of security camera systems out there. You should get one, though I will say no single model is perfect.
For example, wireless cameras connected via wifi can be hacked, which means that someone could use your security system to spy on you — exactly the opposite of what you want.
Cameras that alert your phone when there’s a potential break-in or someone’s at your door are useful.
I have a friend who installed a Nest camera at her business. Within two days, the camera reported someone at the door with burglary tools. Even though she lives 40 miles from her office, she was able to alert the authorities and the culprit was quickly caught before doing any harm.
Some people use a combination of real cameras and fake ones to give the impression of a robust security system.
Whatever set-up you choose, remember that camera placement is important. Cameras are subject to damage if thieves can see them. So consider a combination of visible and hidden placements.
Fences
People and animals tend to follow the path of least resistance.
While practically any fence can be breached if someone is determined enough or has the right tools, a fence can encourage someone to find an easier target, buy you time to react to the threat, or force them to use another point of access that might be better defended.
Fences act as a funnel when dealing with frequent foot traffic as well, moving the “flow” away from invading your privacy.
Some people go so far as to put spikes or wire atop their fences. If you’re in a particularly high-crime area, that may be worth considering.
Dogs
(We added a German Shepherd puppy in September. He is just 5 months old in this pic. Now he is 9 months old and knows many commands and how to put the sheep in the barn. We also have 2 Great Pyrenees and a Labrador Retriever mix.)
Many people assume that they need a huge dog to make any difference in their home security. That’s not true.
While larger dogs have their advantages, any dog that makes a lot of noise when someone enters their territory is beneficial. Their barking makes it a lot harder for someone to catch you unawares, and it draws other people’s attention in the area.
Consider a German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, or Doberman Pinscher if you have the space for larger dogs. These breeds make great family dogs as well.
German Shepherds are easy to find in the US. I recommend the Czech and DDR bloodlines. They have a lot of good instincts and have a longer lifespan than American German Shepherd bloodlines.
Driveway Alarms
A driveway alarm is an excellent alert for anyone approaching your property or pulling into the driveway. If you have a long driveway, it can allow you quite a bit of time before someone arrives. Some driveway alarms are hardwired, while others are wireless. The terrain and topography of your property can affect how well an alarm works. I live in the mountains and have discovered that some alarms do not work so well if there are many barriers like trees or hills between the point of the alarm and the house where the signal has to go.
Ensure that you read any product descriptions thoroughly and measure the distance you need to consider between the sensor and receiver. When in doubt, burying some cable will work but requires some work.
Landscaping
Some plants can make it harder for anyone to enter your home through windows, and some can make it easier. Spiky and thorny plants underneath ground floor windows are an excellent deterrent, and some can be quite beautiful!
- Roses
- Devil’s Club
- Barberry
Taller trees that are near windows can provide a method of entry for a determined criminal. Consider trimming any trees that could help provide access to 2nd and 3rd story windows.
Firearms
In 2020, a record number of firearms were sold. Many of these were sold to new gun owners. Regardless of what the media says, people from across the political, racial, or gender spectrum became new gun owners.
My Vietnam veteran father raised me on his own and taught me how to handle firearms safely and shoot when I was around six years old. I started with a .22, and then he helped me shoot AK-47s and SKS rifles.
I think that every home should have a firearm and hope they never have to use it. Firearms are equalizers. If someone lacks strength or ability, a gun can help even the playing field. There are plenty of people that look for people they perceive as weaker so that they can take advantage of them.
A good 12g shotgun is a reasonable solution for a basic and affordable gun for home defense. It is easy to use even if you are relatively inexperienced. A shotgun blast is less likely than a bullet to travel into adjoining rooms or homes, so they are a better option for those living close to other people.
Handguns are easier to conceal and take up less space. They also cost more than an inexpensive shotgun. Concealed carry laws vary by state or city.
A handgun in the following calibers is most common: 9mm, .380, .357, or .45. Choosing a common caliber means it is easier to find affordable ammo during regular times — though at the moment, practically all ammo is expensive or hard to find.
I’ve spoken with several dealers, and they stated that it will likely be several years before ammo availability and prices have any hope of returning to normal. Of course, that is dependent on no restrictive legislation passing in the meantime.
If you’re new to this topic, Peak Prosperity has a truly excellent Selecting A Firearm guide. It’s extremely comprehensive; the best I’ve seen on the internet.
Non Lethal Methods of Self Defense
Generally speaking, non-lethal weapons are anything that isn’t a gun or a knife. Here’s a brief list of things you can buy to defend yourself:
- Baseball bat ( Some people say that it is wise to have a glove with the batt so you can claim it is just sports equipment)
- Pepper Spray (Pepper gel works better and is less likely to form a cloud that incapacitates the person using it) You can get larger canisters for mounting in cabinets or walls of your home for easy access.
- Kubatons and other keychain weapons
- Tasers or stun guns
- Any everyday object that can be used as a bludgeon
Never forget that just because something is considered non-lethal doesn’t mean it can’t kill when wielded with force. People can have underlying conditions that make them more susceptible to cardiac problems if they are pepper-sprayed, for example. “Non-lethal” means that it is unlikely to cause death if used to buy enough time to get away from the danger.
Consider A Bug Out Bag For Each Family Member
It’s a good idea to have a bag packed with essentials if you have to leave your home for any emergency.
Bug-out bags are useful if you have to evacuate for natural disasters or if conditions get so unsafe that you feel your life is in danger. While many people have the intent of standing their ground and defending their home, there can be a point when temporarily leaving your home is the one thing you can do to significantly increase the odds that you will not be harmed in some way.
What Information Are You Sharing With The World?
What assumptions can someone make about you based on the appearance of your home?
Do you fly any flags, post-political signs, or have any décor that makes a statement?
While I believe in free speech and freedom of expression, I have to point out that sometimes you have to choose between risking others’ wrath to make a point or taking a more discreet approach.
Is it essential that everyone that drives by your home knows what political parties you support? Do you need to have signs up that say other things that could rub someone the wrong way?
It is certainly your right to express your opinion. Make your choice, but be aware of potential consequences during tumultuous times and how that could affect your loved ones.
Bumper Stickers
What you put on the back of your car can tell someone a lot about you. If you care about security, don’t put stickers on your car that shows how many family members you have or where people work or go to school. I realize that some stickers are required for employee parking and cannot be avoided, but anything beyond that is giving away unnecessary info to strangers.
Social Media
I never post anything on social media that tells anyone that I will be leaving my home for any length of time. Avoid letting the world know that you are on vacation or away. You should consider how many people you tell that you are reasonably close to. Just because they would never steal or do something doesn’t mean they won’t unwittingly mention that you are away so that others know.
While it is always tempting to show off photos of what you are up to, you should wait until you return home. Most things are not so important that they cannot wait. Don’t Livestream every aspect of your life so that someone that wishes you harm has an easier time planning.
Talk to your kids and teens about what they reveal online. Texting among close friends is a lot different than public posts with lots of details. During the pandemic, I heard plenty of parents complaining that their kids had told friends about how much food and cleaning supplies they had on hand. That type of info sharing can lead to trouble during a real long-term emergency. There were cases of robberies in areas where shortages were worse.
Shared info can be used to manipulate vulnerable household members into dangerous situations.
When Conditions Get Worse
Unfortunately, many people have recently experienced some dangerous situations due to rioting and unrest in cities and suburbs. Regardless of your political or moral opinions, it is easier than you might think to find yourself in a danger zone.
This section will concentrate on defensive methods if you are in an area where civil unrest is rampant and conditions do not show signs of improving. Hopefully, you never have to experience a situation like this.
Protection From Projectiles
Projectiles are a significant problem during times of civil unrest. There are several ways to gain some protection:
Remove any lawn furniture or decor that could be used as a projectile or weapon.
During times of civil unrest, anything that is easy to pick up could get damaged or be used to inflict damage. Small lawn statues and chairs are particularly tempting.
Window Film
As mentioned before, this protective film will prevent your windows from easily shattering.
Chicken Wire
Good old-fashioned chicken wire is available at any farm and garden store. When it is stretched tightly over windows, it can deflect some projectiles, including Molotov Cocktails.
Window Grilles
You see window grilles in many cities, especially in areas where crime is a problem. Typically these are only found on the first-floor windows. They are not pretty to look at, and staring out of them can feel prison-like. The advantages are that they are very effective. They are made of heavy-duty iron. The cost to purchase and install is prohibitive if you just want some basic security.
Keychain Perimeter Alarms
Giving yourself extra time to react to a perceived threat is helpful. You can purchase keychain alarms and use string or fishing line to make tripwires. If someone crosses the line, the alarm will sound.
Barbed Wire
If you keep a roll of barbed wire on hand, you can use it to make it harder for someone to gain entry through windows, doors, fences, and more. Sure barbed wire can be cut, but most people are not walking around with the tools for that.
Create A Safe Room
Rooms that face streets or have a lot of windows are the least safe in your home. A room towards the center is safer from projectiles. You can even fortify it with mattresses and other large objects.
Here are FEMA’s guidelines for creating a safe room.
Conclusion
While it’s unpleasant to think about crime or violence happening to you and your family, it’s a good idea to get outside your comfort zone and plan for some of these scenarios.
Taking control of the security and well-being of your family is empowering and worthwhile. The average person can do a lot to prevent becoming a victim. Many criminals look for the easiest target. Anything you can do to make yourself a more difficult one increases the odds that you won’t have any major problems.
Talking to your family about how to react if they find themselves in or near a potentially violent situation is important. The faster they can get to safety, the better. Delayed reactions or standing around to get “proof” by filming is not a good idea when your life is on the line.
Join the discussion
57 Comments
Mon, Mar 08, 2021 - 7:33am
Some advice from someone who actually lived this
As a young single woman, I lived in Brooklyn, NY during the late 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s. Apartment break-ins and car break-ins, parts theft, and theft were a way of life. Chains are completely useless, anyone can kick those in. You need a way to see who's there prior to opening the door. It can be a peephole or an electronic version but that's the only safe way to even crack your door other than the following. Any easily accessible door must be solid and without windows. If your door has a window you do not have a door. Get one of those wrought iron security doors and make sure it's installed properly. Same for windows. If it can be reached, it offers 0% security regardless of locks. There are "fire department approved" gates that allow you to exit in case of a fire but will not let anyone in. Good ones of either of those for either door or windows are not cheap. In approximately 1980, I got one for my fire-escape window and hazy memory recalls it at around $300 back then.
Also, with regard to locks, a deadbolt separate from your entry knob is key (pun intended). I'm not up-to-date anymore but for decades the pick-proof lock of choice for NYers was Medeco. They also were never cheap but I can tell you with certainty that almost any lock you buy in a big-box store is probably useless.
Came back to edit this to add that your "lifestyle" and general awareness suggestions are spot-on. When Facebook started, my bestie who still lives in Brooklyn and is a retired cop would laugh with me about the a$$holes posting. She and I agreed it was like taking out a "please rob me" ad. Also, if there's any escalating violence or police action, run don't walk away from the situation. Be aware enough of your surroundings to make that happen. And keep everything about your house and car as plain vanilla as possible. No one with good intentions gives a damn about your stick figure family. If there are shots heard outside your home, DO NOT go to the window to see what's going on. Hit the floor for heaven's sake!
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Mon, Mar 08, 2021 - 8:13am
Not in NYC you don't
Appreciate the well written article. This may be be a bit of a stretch but one ought to understand local and State law and or consult with local law enforcement or legal-eagles to understand legal boundaries. Outside of an immediate response for protection if you plan on carrying anything (on our person or in our vehicle) that could be construed as a weapon (or contraband), it is at the discretion of a police person whether you get a ride in the cruiser. Don't take your perceived "class" or phenotype as any kind of protection from brooding officers of the State. Lastly, don't make any mistakes regarding a lost driver looking for directions or help with a broken-down automobile in the middle of the night. AND yews, lastly learn to know your fear-factors, how do you behave when scared out of your wits with the hair on the back of your neck standing straight up. It's a different "you" than the one reading this article.
"At the edge of extinction, only Love remains" --G. McPherson
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Mon, Mar 08, 2021 - 10:37am
scotthw said:
"for decades the pick-proof lock of choice for NYers was Medeco" Yep, still THE LOCK to get. Installed them on all my doors, including the one to the garage, about 3 years ago, for about $300 EACH (I had a locksmith do it). The locksmith said he is the only one at his firm that can pick one, and it takes him several minutes.
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Mon, Mar 08, 2021 - 2:07pm
LBL said:
One plant that has Super-Spikey thorns (2 inches long) is my Brooks Prune Tree.
Though I think it's the root-stock that actually has the thorns.
I think one of the best security options is to simply not have your house be visible from the road.
About 9 years ago I needed a midnight jump on an old Mercedes diesel. The AAA guy gave me a big compliment, said he'd been driving for 20 years in our town and never knew there was a house "up there".
Returning to the Dead Serious aspect of Home Defense. What do you do if you end up with a dead body as a result of your home or business defense choices ?
I think it's wise to discuss the nitty gritty details with an attorney who is street-wise and knowledgeable about firearms.
And also with a knowledgeable firearms instructor - who has the same agreement re protecting your secrets as the Attorney.
Also, I suggest that PP members consider obtaining a Suppressor.
The purpose of that is to give you a choice in the event that you use your firearm in a home or business defense scenario.
If you shoot un-suppressed, the police will probably be showing up. Firearms sounds have that effect on the neighbors.
If you shoot suppressed, it will probably be your choice about whether or not to call 9-11.
I think dealing with these self-defense scenarios means thinking through many different scenarios before-hand. It is like trading in the Silver market. Things happen fast, and if you are spending thousands of dollars, you want to get it right.
If a firearm is used in a home or business defense scenario, it means that things have started happening fast.
It is very difficult, perhaps impossible, to think through all those scenarios in Real time (at the time of a security incident that inspires you to chamber a round of ammo). It works much better if you think through all the scenarios before-hand. Which might mean taking 3 months of classes.
The goal of using a firearm is not just to defend your home or business. It's to defend your home or business without ending up with a felony on your record.
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Mon, Mar 08, 2021 - 9:10pm
Firearms and self defense comments
I am in no way claiming to be a firearms or self defense expert by ANY stretch of the imagination. I do have some friends that I have served with that could qualify as experts in this field. When I have a question about this kind of stuff I refer to them. Anyways here is my opinion on this topic.
1. Do not have a firearm for defense unless you are willing to use it to end another life. Not everyone is capable of doing this. Better to do some serious self reflection first.
2. practice often. Look up the hit percentage of cops when discharging their weapons in self defense. Not exactly reassuring. This isn’t like playing Fortnite on xbox.
3. Shotgun shell loads are a mixed bag many can and do go through drywall just fine. You don’t want to be that guy who ended up killing the neighbor in the next door condo because you wanted to scare the burglar away and didn’t realize it could go through walls. If you pull the trigger you are responsible for the outcome. Refer to rule number 1 and 2 above.
4. ammo is expensive and hard to find. This is why many people who enjoy shooting tend to reload. What caliber weapon you buy depends on a few things. Personally I don’t carry anything larger than a 9mm because I have a small frame and a larger weapon would be a bit harder to conceal for me. I have friends who carry larger weapons. Much of it is personal preference and what you are comfortable with.
5. there is a reason the AR platforms are very popular. Easy to shoot and easy to maintain with reasonable accuracy.
6. kubatons are fine for people with extensive training. If you are a small person without extensive training odds are quite high that some large MZB will shove it up your behind the second you pull it out. I had many years of martial arts training in multiple methods but I understand physics and body mechanics enough to know that I am a small female and even with training I can be at a significant disadvantage in a fight with a larger male opponent especially if he has any kind of training. I have personally used my martial arts training to defend my life on occasion before and I am very lucky the guy was a similar size to me. If presented with a much larger male attacker at this point I’d refer to my rule 1 above.
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Mon, Mar 08, 2021 - 9:52pm
coh said:
"The goal of using a firearm is not just to defend your home or business. It's to defend your home or business without ending up with a felony on your record."
Amen to that.
I can say that if I ever wind up on a jury in a case where a homeowner killed someone who had broken into his/her home, the prosecutor would have to work really hard to get me to vote to convict that homeowner. To me, anyone breaking into someone's home is an immediate threat and has given up their right to life. I don't know how many share my viewpoint.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 12:32am
It takes a neighborhood
I love where I live, everyone on my dead end road has dogs (they wake you up and distract the intruder) and hand guns (mostly 9mm, quick access safe). Always lock up your guns!
But what really keeps you safe are good neighbors. Had a young man poking around last summer, basically casing houses. So four of us confronted him and let him know never to return, after forcing him to show ID. He took the hint. This was absolutely not something I could have done by myself. Strength in numbers gives you more options and can be very convincing.
Hypothetically, if we ever entered some kind of deteriorating security situation in town, I think we'd pull together as a neighborhood, I think that's they only way it would work.
Also, I really recommend ASP (Active Self Protection) youtube channel, really good case studies, mostly from officer involved shooting videos but also homeowners, including general tips as well as legal considerations. Good stuff.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 3:19am
Day break-in different than night break-in in Virginia
In Virginia, I understand that the law in effect says you have a right to immediately shoot an intruder that breaks into your house at night, but if she breaks in during the day, that right goes away and standard self defense rules apply (equal force, are you afraid for your life etc.)
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 3:54am
Step one of self defense
The first and most effective means of self DEFENSE is avoidance. Remember, self defense and "fighting" arent the same thing...[though they retain elements of each other.] Crossing the street can save your life in a situation where all the karate, strength, and weapons training in the world might get you killed.
I apply this to "home defense" by living in a nice, low crime neighborhood. Ive lived in alot of places in my life; cities, suburbs, a cabin in Alaska, and rural farm/logging towns. Cities are the most dangerous by far, no question. Suburbs can be just as dangerous in the wrong neighborhoods [ even in the good ones ]. Remote cabins have their own separate set of dangers [ more related to wildlife, the elements, and the distance/accessibility to help ]. Although there are potential dangers everywhere, I have found small rural communities to be the safest.
In most of these places, there is a real sense of community bond. If you get yourself stuck in the mud, there isnt a self respecting farmer anywhere in this great country of ours who wouldnt stop what he's doing, saddle up his tractor, and come to your rescue. Ive had friends of mine come up here for a visit and a couple of locals followed them right up the driveway to see who they were and what they were up to.
You can avoid alot of problems by being in the right place. That being said, there are potential bad actors everywhere. Some great advice given in the article. My second worst nightmare would be to have to kill a man. It is second only to what that man might do if I DONT kill him. As a father and husband raising a family on an isolated farmstead I have no choice and cannot afford to hesitate for even a fraction of a second. And I wont.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 5:20am
Can you possibly consider country life?
Hi Permiegirl....In a respectful way I would ask if there is anyway you can leave the city? Someone with your smarts and experience would thrive in the country. I moved from a suburban basic city upbringing to the country kind of by accident, and now there is no way I will ever live in the city again.
We live in a rural area where Sunday afternoon target-shooting is more popular than beer and football. People are always popping rounds. My neighbor and I just split a 1000 round order of 9mm. Getting harder to find. We share garden and livestock activities with neighbors....Life here is really different.
And on the flip side of the discussion regarding door locks....We don’t generally use them on our house. There is enough glass that locking doors would be kind of ridiculous. We do keep handguns in a quick access safe and have dogs on duty 24/7.
I wonder if the attractions of city life are still as compelling as they were pre-Covid? My oncologist is at Columbia-Presbyterian and I used to enjoy trips to the city....Couldn’t wait to eat at Patsy’s Italian restaurant and great sushi everywhere, and we are still laughing years after seeing the “Book of Mormon” on broadway...but sadly those days are gone. If you have never experienced country life....it comes highly recommended.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 5:58am
I share your viewpoint Coh
100%
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 6:17am
LBL said:
Living in Rural Oregon ...
I have 2 neighbors who shot & killed each other's dogs about 12 years ago.
The bad vibes from that reverberate to this day. Despite one of the neighbors dying in a car crash in Virginia in 2011, and the other being about 75 & on the edge of death.
The neighbor that died seemed to Bequeath his bad neighbor policy to a friend that ended up renting the house. That friend has a habit of reporting neighbors to the police & state for non-offenses. E.g. another neighbor was gold mining in the creek immediately to the South of the bad neighbor. The bad neighbor called the police on the person running the water pump (as part of a sluice.)
Such a contrast. I went down and talked with the gold miner & got a 1 hour lesson.
The problem with people having firearms is that they often use them for Really Stupid Things.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 8:13am
Home Invasions
My, formerly peaceful, neck of the woods started seeing some home invasions last year. It's still rare, but no longer unheard of. That's on top of the occasional burglaries that have been going on longer.
For me, it's no longer just about being armed and prepared. I want forewarning, in the middle of the night, if someone penetrates my home. Additionally, I want to know if someone is in my house when I'm away.
I installed a burglar alarm system last year and love the peace of mind.
I've toyed with the idea for years, but didn't feel the compelling need until last year.
I chose SimpliSafe as a good hybrid between completely do-it-yourself and fully contracted service. I did the installation myself in a few hours.
It's something you might want to consider.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 9:28am
Linked firearms article
Yes it was an excellent article. Even described what a clip is. LOL
As a addition to the shotgun part. Many shotguns can be bought with box magazines and can be swapped out pretty quickly, but even with the tube magazine, if you practice you can combat load an empty shotgun and then load the tube pretty quickly if you have a pouch on your belt with loose shells. (TRAINING) Those bandolier things look good, but removing the round to insert into gun is time consuming. Hopefully the five shells you have in the gun will end the fight quickly. If you are reloading in a fight with a shotgun in your home, you have other problems. Shotgun on a combat sling with your pistol on your hip as your secondary. Drop shotgun, which will swivel away and go to secondary. I know takes time to get ready and TRAINING!
As for rang yes, 50 yards, I would say 40 yards with shot is the limit. 00 Buck will hold a good pattern on a human silhouette at 40. A slug can be accurate up to about 100 yards, with a slug barrel, but you can easily split the difference with a smooth bore if you use Foster or Brenneke slugs. Don't shoot Sabot slugs out of smooth bore, accuracy will suffer greatly.
Also shotgun shells do take up way more room. My five round magazine for one of my shotguns sticks out of the bottom of the gun and you would swear it held more. The ten round actually looks ridiculous, but keep in mind a 2 /34 inch 12 gauge 00 Buck has 9 .30 caliber pellets in it. The 3" has 12. So every trigger pull, multiple projectiles are going down range and starting to spread out from each other. Doesn't mean you don't have to aim, it just makes getting some of the projectile on target more likely.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 11:42am
Having the right neighbors...
The isolated piece of land I just bought and am developing has only two permanent residents on the ridgeline at present - one of them happens to be the local police chief and a lifetime community member (~1000 population). Didn't know until I bought it.
He just closed on his house March 12th last year and this is most likely his forever home. He paid $270k for 5 acres overlooking the Mississippi from 250' up with a 2500+ sq. ft. Mormon built log cabin.
Lucky timing on his part, I'd sell a kidney for that property and house right now. Easily get $500k today for that place.
ANYWAY... We've spoken a few times so far and I like him quite a bit. Straight shooter and the town and county communities are truly his life. He's exactly one month older than I am which is somewhat synergistic.
Feeling pretty confident in him as a neighbor in bad times. Let's hope I have enough awareness and usefulness to bring to the neighborhood and the town if/when needed.
Big thanks for the safety film suggestion Samantha! Ordering some now.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 12:33pm
Mental preparedness
It’s best to train your mind to react instantly and instinctively to a deadly threat. In most cases it will happen very fast and you won’t have time to think about the legal, moral, political and tactical considerations. Do it in advance. Cops are getting killed and severely wounded these days because they’re hesitating because of political considerations. They see what has happened to other cops in perfectly legal and moral self defense shootings. Remember Jacob Blake? I loved it when the MSM finally admitted he had a knife in his hand but wrote “he was otherwise unarmed.” Work it out for yourself in advance, politics be damned.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 4:55pm
Can I consider country life?
Yup, can and have. We bought 10 acres in a very rural part of NY State Finger Lakes region 3 years ago. Have already fenced a 1/4 acre garden where we grew a ton of food last year. Put in a septic system ourselves with plans and inspections from the Dept. of Health. Had a wonderful engineer there do the plans for us along with all inspections, he was a godsend! Had a well dug by an "old-timer" who still hasn't gotten the pipe run to our cabin. He's 84 and I pray for his continued health. Speaking of a cabin, we prepared and poured an insulated slab (with delivered concrete) and were going to try a stick build but with COVID ended up having an Amish shed/garage company frame it for us. It's small, 24 x 24 with a tall loft, and showed up in 2 parts on a trailer, got assembled and anchored within hours. Put in our own windows for which they framed the openings, so it's buttoned up but that's where it ended by fall. Everything has been "pay-as-you-go" and done legally with permits.
My husband currently works, although I'm a stay-at-home mom, having adopted 2 kids who are young enough to almost be our grandkids (now or soon entering high school) and that ties us to areas where he can get a job. We're no longer in NYC proper - got priced out anyway. We're now in a distant suburb, actually a small city. He was laid off last summer but was able to immediately get contracting work and has worked from home, so we're doing fine. But as to where we eventually end up until retirement ... who knows? The only "requirement" at least for as long as we have the luxury of that option is to be within a reasonable commute for our land. It's currently 150 miles door to door and much longer makes it tough to do on a regular basis.
By complete luck we have absolutely wonderful neighbors and I agree that country folks know about cooperation, usually. I actually love the country and the city. It's the suburbs I'm not crazy about.
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Tue, Mar 09, 2021 - 7:09pm
Is everyone just going to stay put on land?
I’m still trying to process How safe I will be when govt Agencies come for our guns And property! Remember “you will owe nothing and be happy”? Are we at risk here in the US of losing our acres of land And investments we make trying to safeguard ourselves and trying to be resilient? Is this all for nothing? I’ve heard comments that the only safe posture is to actually leave the country to another place that isn’t going to have to deal with mandatory vaccines and the confiscation of our liberties. I’m still searching for where that is? Advice is greatly appreciated
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 4:21am
Im staying put...for now
I dont expect the great reset to happen, not nearly to the extent that they would like. The WEF is already backtracking, trying to do damage control by taking down videos, etc.
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 5:19am
Stay and fight for our country
I’m not going anywhere. 20 years of hard work building my homestead is not going to be abandoned. I just don’t see local law enforcement, who are personal friends, participating in a gun grab scenario. And realistically I think the patriots on the land have a much greater personal resolve than any government force unleashed against them.
I’m an eternal optimist and see this New Democrat controlled Government failing by virtue of its stupid policies. One example makes my point. Biden opened the southern border because it has a “warm and fuzzy feeling” to invite less advantaged neighbors into the largess of the give-away society. (Plus they might vote Democrat). I have compassion for our Hispanic neighbors, and know some personally through construction work (we are less than 2 hours drive from Mexico). I speak fluent Spanish and have huge respect for the work ethic and family values that they bring. And those who have come legally are doing well. But the influx of unvetted, undocumented, unCovidtested, migrants is breaking the system. And this “Crisis” (not to be called a Crisis)....is going to demonstrate to even the most brainwashed evening news kool-aid drinkers that the Democrats have no clue how to govern. My prediction is that the border crisis is the first of many failures that will manifest from decisions coming from Socialist Playbook.
My game plan is to stay put....and build Resiliency as taught by Chris and Adam....And Kudos to Governor Gregg Abbott for standing up Texas where the federal Government has abandoned it’s obligation to defend the borders.
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 5:35am
Demographics
The #1 tip is to live in a safe city or town where you can (in theory) leave the doors unlocked. But you also have to consider adjacent cities. In other words, demographics is 80% of safety following the Pareto rule, which applies here, based on my lived experience and statistics.
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 6:30am
The Jews that stayed put during Nazi Regime
the Jews that stayed put felt the same way until they came for them.... I pray to God that if we stay put, we are not wrong in our resolve...
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 7:29am
It Takes a Thief
This is a great overview. I'd like to add a bit more perspective on the robbery threat. Hopefully you have good layers of defense (as mentioned). Assuming no one is home, the last line of defense for your valuables is probably a safe that it bolted down and not easily opened with a pry bar.
If you have guns and gold, where are they stored now? If the safe isn't bolted down, how hard would it be for someone to carry it out and pry it open later?
There's also a really amazing resource out there. If you want to know a thousand ways you can get robbed, here's your answer: https://www.discovery.com/shows/it-takes-a-thief/episodes/1
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 3:56pm
Bolting a safe won't do it
Sorry to keep being the wet blanket here, but a friend had a bolted down safe that got quickly ripped out of the floor with a pry-bar. Additionally, he then had a damaged floor to repair. The cops told him the first place a thief will look is the master bedroom, particularly the closet for a safe. Best thing you can do with a safe is to use it as a decoy. Put some money (but obviously not too much) and some jewelry and personal items in that aren't super-valuable. Then put it in your master bedroom closet and don't bolt it down. The thieves will think they found your stash. Find far more clandestine hiding places for the real thing.
P.S. Friend who was robbed had a large but generally nice dog. He suspects the people who broke in know most dogs are nice and a dog biscuit or some treat will probably "buy them off."
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 7:08pm
Medeco deadbolts!!!
I agree with your suggestion re: Medeco deadbolts. I installed Medeco Maxum deadbolts for all my outer doors. The Medeco deadbolts are just incredible. Real solid and heavy. It felt like a 2 lb weight in my hand. These Medeco deadbolts are virtually pick and bump proof. Very difficult to drill through, hammer and pry open. The deadbolt is made with hardened steel and difficult to saw. I replaced my Schlage deadbolts I bought many years ago are just junk compared to Medeco. Yes, you will pay a lot more, but having a great deadbolt is worth the added costs. Also be sure to replace the strike plate screws with 3" to 4" screws. My favorite are Spax screws made in Germany or USA. They are self drilling and very easy to install.
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 7:32pm
Window film
Pappy: there are different brands and thicknesses of window film. It's not easy to install as a DIY without getting bubbles. 3M is probably the best brand. At a minimum you want a 3 or 4mm film. 6mm is a good thickness. When you get over 10mm thickness the film starts to get blurry and harder to see out the window.
One additional comment to add re: window film.... it will slow down the intruder, but won't completely stop them from entering. A determined intruder will eventually pound a hole through the window film. If you are inside your home it will give you an additional 20-40 seconds to prepare and defend yourself. The security film may even convince the intruder to stop and move on to your neighbors house instead. I have a 3M window film installed on several 1st floor windows I feel are most likely targets for a thief to attempt a break in.
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 7:47pm
Sur security doors
If you are in the market for a high security front door, be sure to check out Sur Doors. Very well made.
https://youtu.be/lJk5ypGKjQY
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Wed, Mar 10, 2021 - 8:17pm
Voice Alert System 6
If you are looking for a wireless alert sensor I highly recommend Voice Alert System 6. It's a low tech alert system using a wireless sensor that you mount by a door or side of your house under the roof. There is no app or camera. It comes with a 6 channel receiver so you can set up 6 sensors around your house. I have the 2 sides of my house, one near the front door and one in the garage in case someone opens my garage door to alert me. The alert triggers a voice alert message from the receiver located in my kitchen. What's great about this Voice Alert System 6 is the distance the wireless sensor can be set up. It can go through multiple walls from the outside to inside to reach the receiver table unit. Works very well with very few false alerts. Sadly the company was bought out, then the buying company closed soon after, but you can still find product available on Ebay or possibly at a local security alarm company.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 5:42am
Safe to stop the "casual thief"
Safe's are great to stop the casual thief; the dishonest contractor, the bad friend, the desperate relative, the juvenile delinquent. These "casual thieves" probably account for the majority of thefts, so a safe offers good protection.
The professional thief is another story altogether. The best use for a safe against the professional is, as Permie Girl suggests, misdirection.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 12:04pm
Still best to bolt the safe to the concrete floor.....
After bolting the safe to the concrete floor, to make it more secure add concrete epoxy around each of the expansion bolts. Sure, any safe can be broken into given enough time and good tools, but most burglaries are done by the unsophisticated thief who's in/out of your home within 15 minutes. If your safe is in your garage, disguise it by building a fake storage cabinet with doors around it to match the other storage cabinets in your garage.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 1:54pm
LBL said:
>> After bolting the safe to the concrete floor, to make it more secure add concrete epoxy around each of the expansion bolts.
What you're describing is sort of a rigging task, with a twist (something is being stolen, instead of just moved.)
I think it's best to prepare for a prepared "redneck burglar" (trying to describe a situation, but not to impugn redneck's.)
e.g. some guy with an F350, a tow hitch, some steel cable, and some heavy chain.
They could just throw that chain around the safe and the bolt in the floor will probably lose.
Of course, that means knowing that something is there to throw a chain around. That is an argument for setting the combination on the safe at the store, and only having family members present when the safe is installed.
To make things harder for the redneck burglar, one possibility is to find a safe with 2 or 4 bolt points.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 2:01pm
Stay and fight for our country?
I'm glad the "fight or flight" discussion is starting to happen. Permi's comment about Jews fleeing asap is on-target, but so is Olive's about digging in. So which is it?
I take all positions: 1) first seek similar demographics and dig roots for life; 2) defend your turf and attack threats early and often (preferably using lawfare); 3) regretfully have firm plans to leave as a last resort. I've read enough stories from South Africa or the USSR; everyone should leave at a certain point. The trick is to know that that point is. Once saw a SA immigrant burst into tears just watching teen girls walk home on their street unattended...this simple idyllic event never happens where he lived; no girl travels alone, period. Even strong and aggressive men travel in packs, always armed.
One of the problems with older Americans my age (say >40 yo) is many don't recognize things have changed for good; culture and race are real American things nowadays in many places. When the USA was 80% white/born locally in 1980, there was a kinda-sorta shared Christian culture in general and most everyone else at least pretending to assimilate. For better or worse, that ship has sailed. the USA is now like the Balkans (without the religious angle) complete with no-go zones in places that were fairly normal 30 years ago. Bluntly, uncontrolled immigration = Balkans. A wise man arms himself and moves if needed, not stubbornly clinging the past. But only if needed.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 2:05pm
Owning a Safe?
Why not just bury valuables or put inside sheetrocked walls? Never had a problem doing either.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 6:36pm
From the frying pan into the fire?
IMHO the #1 problem with moving to another country is, how do you know it won't be worse? The current problems are infesting many countries around the world. It's not like there are a couple of "bad actors" as in WWII. Seriously, where would be better? Having lived in Europe for a few years, I realize that an immigrant has many disadvantages: I didn't understand the culture or the language and made many blunders along the way. Many locals were standoffish if not distrustful. And that was 20 years ago, during easy, normal times.
Julie
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 7:11pm
An American moving to another country will become a target
Unless you can afford your own private security team to protect you, moving to just about any country in Asia, South America, Africa and parts of Europe you, being an American will be come a target. Word will get out soon after you move into your new neighborhood that you are an American and must have money so better watch your back at all times.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 8:07pm
expats abroad at disadvantage- "You Ain't From Around Here."
Having spent over a decade outside the USA, I assure you that moving isn't a panacea. Most countries do not allow non-natives to become citizens even if they have a citizen spouse/ and/or a child with a native. Other countries require you to apply for things called Visas to lawfully stay. Then you must often have a minimal balance in a local bank in their currency. Additionally there are usually 90 day reporting requirements at immigration you have to pay for and spend a whole day sitting in line, unless you pay a service. You have to get permission to leave and re-enter even though you have a valid visa. This costs as well. You will not get any services medical or otherwise.
Even in basic disputes like bar arguments or traffic accidents, you as an American are at the disadvantage. Everyone always overcharges you. If you see an accident if front of you with casualties- drive off. If you stop to render aid, you will be blamed for the accident and have to pay everyone. In common daily activities, if the natives are rude, you have to take it, smile, and slink away, If you don't, by standers who have no relationship to the native will join in to beat the crap out of you and rob you.
Lovely ladies will give up their favors to the men for cars and homes. Non-citizens can't own real property in most other countries so the guy puts the house in the girlfriend's name. He goes to visit the homeland and comes back to find her family is living in the house, the bank account is gone, and magically all assets are in her name. She gained favor with the family by giving them stuff. That's what matters. Happens all the time.
Know an American attorney who was hit in car by unlicensed teen boy and girlfriend on motorbike. Remember the American was stopped at a light and struck by the native. Kids were hurt. Policeman arrived and demanded a bribe or the attorney would go to jail. Then the girl's Auntie got on the scene and wanted her medical bills paid- by the American. Several court hearings later, the American is out atty fees and still has to pay something to the kids who hit them. When said American went to leave to visit USA, arrested at the airport and put in jail three days because policeman never lifted the arrest notice since he didn't get his bribe. This is in a civilized place...imagine it in more dicey areas.
As a foreigner you cannot volunteer at a school, etc. without permission. Local Expat group gave away food to the poor locally during CV shutdown. They got reprimanded because it made the locals look bad "like we don't care for our citizens." Face is big in Asia, Middle East, and Africa. Well yes, since you told the blind school they could get Govt. aid but wouldn't allow the helper to walk them into the building as it violated social distancing, I'd say that covered it. The people literally were starving until the expats brought them food. This is how the rest of the world works.
If you live overseas, you have to send tax info in annually and report to the US Crimes Division. You have to prove any money transfers from pensions aren't from nefarious sources or they block your cash and investigate you. Imagine this under JoeO...no rats are let out of the sinking ship. Only going to get worse. "We'll just stop any and all money transfers out of the USA because you're a criminal." Forget about Medicare or most health insurance plans- you pay for it, but not useable outside the USA. Now most countries require non-natives to carry health insurance for CV (which they will provide for a fee.)
Forget the relocation / retirement agencies as they're generally lying bastards who get commissions on everyone they get to move. They'll say anything, but the reality is quite different. All even as retiree, be prepared to tackle a new language to be able to function. English might be taught in schools, but the guy selling apples probably can say yes, no, and OK. Period.
Evaluate your choice carefully. There may be good ones out there, but remember, in a homogenous society race/nationality matters to them. You're not changing it no matter how nice or helpful you are.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 8:17pm
Moving Abroad
Really, really do your homework. It is not a panacea, and it is not right for everyone. But I know people who are very happy with their decision.
Each country, with its own languages, culture, and laws, varies significantly. No place is the best fit for everyone, although some are better for most people.
The out of control health care costs in the US would likely be the biggest impetus for me to retire elsewhere. Medical tourism is big business... and living in some of those places can be very affordable.
One aspect I don't hear people discussing is the future role of America in international politics. Many countries defer their defense spending to the US. So what happens to those countries if the US protection umbrella recedes? Will Europe, UK, Australia, New Zealand, latin America retain their degrees of freedom if America is not providing for their security? Or will they face growing threats of incursion from China, Russia, Iran? If I were in Hong Kong today or Taiwan in 5 years I'd be especially concerned.
Bottom line: whether it's a good idea or not depends on you and what tradeoffs you're willing to make. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
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Thu, Mar 11, 2021 - 8:27pm
Prep: Bug out vs Bug in
One interesting twist from COVID is a lot of the preppers who planned to bug out found they instead bugged in. Given the potential for violence and social upheaval, weighing these options is as important as it is difficult: is it better to flee somewhere else, that you can count on being safe, or stay where you are and bunker down?
I'd say it depends.
Some work in areas that are high crime, so having a bug out location is highly desirable. Financial constraints may mean only one home is affordable. In some cases, the plan B may be to stay long term with family or friends. Time may be a factor: at this point, is there enough to prepare a long-term bug out location?
From a planning perspective, it really makes sense to have an alternative location (or more than one) prepared ahead of time. Maybe you live in the Big City but Uncle Bob in the country can put you up in his place for a few months. At the very least, plan on a location to go if there's a natural disaster that forces you out of your home.
And, it's important to let your family and friends know where they can find you if you have to evacuate.
My two cents.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 3:57am
If I HAD to leave where would I go?
I'll tell you Ive been thinking about this quite a bit and I can't think of too many places where I might go to escape a crumbling America. I'd need a place where I can live the lifestyle that I love and that would require rural land, a temperate 4 season climate, a level of safety/security, and affordability.
When I look I can usually find one or two criteria; like its safe but you cant afford it. Or it has 4 seasons and you can afford some land but its dangerous, etc.
The other thing Ive found is that rural land in America is actually cheaper than most places. Even 3rd world countries, try to buy 100 acres, it's priced out of reach [ at least for Americans ].
Right now, there are only two countries that I would consider moving to if the US became unlivable; Ireland, and Canada. Ireland has some incredibly beautiful rural land and it's still pretty affordable. Canada too. These are relatively safe countries with good demographics, they speak English and the culture is very similar [ same roots ].
The thing to consider is, if America goes down how far behind will Canada and Ireland be? I dont know but the demographics might, at least, buy them some time.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 4:19am
American moving to another country.............
I escaped a few years ago to settle down in an Asian country and am extremely happy, very, very happy that I did.
I agree with the negative comments in that if you are escaping with some retirement money and intend to ride out the rest of your life in retirement heaven overseas, you will not be accepted and likely just be a target. A really bad idea.
I know a large number of emigrants to Asia, some from the US, most from other countries and everyone who came here with a skill or special contribution is very happy to be here (lucky to have left, actually) and feel accepted. Who needs to become a citizen anyway? If accepted into the healthcare system and respected for how you work in the community, who cares if you get to vote for an asshole in an election. We are all going to die sooner or later and being a citizen or not is less important than healthy food and avoiding stupid things like house invasions etc.
However, no one is in retirement mode. Rather, most countries especially in Asia will gladly accept a foreign expert that has something to contribute to the country and comes to work for a big company to develop new things, or merely to work their skill in a community. In particular, Asia respects science and technology and is imbibing scientists and engineers from the West. Many people have skills, as engineers, farmers, auto mechanics or boat builders, and in my observation, are well accepted because they work hard and contribute something special to the community. I have many examples and have helped people.
The most important factors for deciding if you can leave the US and resettle:
1. can you work hard or are you comparatively (compared to Asians) lazy. Most people in Asia will automatically assume that you are lazy if you are from America and you will have to demonstrate otherwise.
2. do have a desirable skill? I know some people from various countries who settled in Japan (and to a lesser extent in China) and are very happy because they are following their career dreams (typically as scientists or skilled workers) and are well appreciated as contributing something special to their new country. I know an American young farmer who is well accepted because he amazingly works hard and is making a difference in his community by converting abandoned lands into something special.
3. are you young enough not to be a drag on the health care system? Foreign countries are not excited about accepting old farts who want to throw a few coins their way while living a live of superior comfort among hard working natives who have much less money. I had to work hard to dispel such assumptions when I first came here. So what. Try moving to a small community in America driving a fancy new car with dreams about hiring local labor to do all your necessary work.
There seems to be a retiring-with-nest-egg-boomer emphasis on many of the discussions here. Lets hear from the younger people having practical wealth producing skills and whom are welcome in most communities if they work hard and make an effort to learn the customs.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 7:39am
Moving to Canada
Relatives were looking at retiring in Canada when Trump got elected. They wouldn't be let in because they had not been financially supporting national healthcare all these years.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 8:16am
i've said it before and i'll say it again
There is no place to "hide" in the world from what is coming. It doesn't exist. I've looked into it extensively and haven't found a place I would fully trust when the chips are down. Some may look appealing now but circumstances can change on a dime and you can rapidly become persona non grata. Even with its growing faults, the USA is the place where I chose to stay and make my stand.
Choose your state carefully and choose your community carefully. California, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey are definitely places I'd stay away from. Densely populated urban centers are also to be avoided, especially along the coasts.
Blend in with an ordinary house, ordinary cars, and an ordinary lifestyle to all external views. Keep anything extraordinary about yourself or your family largely under wraps. Contribute your efforts towards making the community you chose a better place without standing out too much and without ruffling too many feathers. Choose your friends and acquaintances wisely. Be the type of citizen, neighbor, and friend you would want others to be.
In other words, keep a low profile, follow the Golden Rule, and be gracious, generous, and kind (even if it may not always be reciprocated) and be willing to forgive faults and trespasses while still being politely assertive and resolute enough to avoid being a doormat.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 8:21am
what about Asia?
Do you think Asia is an exception?
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 9:26am
thesecuritygirl, yes and no
If you are Asian and are seeking to integrate into a culture there where you are the same race/ethnicity, speak the same language fluently (and preferably without an accent), understand and comply with all the cultural rules (at least to all external appearances), etc., then yes, if you would chose to move there, it would not be unreasonable. But again, I would stay away from the most densely populated urban areas and "flash zones" where it appears future warfare is imminent. There is, however, the factor of some of the highest population density on the planet being in many areas of Asia and many of the problems we are increasingly facing are definitely related to population density and its mismanagement.
If you do not fit the above criteria, I would venture that you would be better off staying where you are or going to where you do fit those criteria.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 1:15pm
Do you think Asia is an exception?
"Asia" is the most diverse region on the planet and embraces everything that you can imagine. This question does not apply.
Japan is exceptional for many of the right reasons. During their 700 year old known, recorded history, Japanese were invaded only once, by the Americans, who destroyed their despotic, corrupt government, broke up the big greedy landholders and redistributed private farmlands, taught them many new ways of having fun, and brought peace and prosperity.
They do not hate the Americans for doing those things.
99% of Japan is rural, characterized by abandoned houses and sprinkled with fallow farm land. In my opinion Japan is the most civil country on earth, with possibly the best functioning healthcare system that costs about 4 fold less resources to run than in America.
One of the biggest problems a Westerner faces in Japan is that people wont let him/her alone because they insist on using you to practice and learn English. I call this "the English punching bag syndrome." Such people dont care about you and many are racist. But out in the country efforts to revive the countryside by hard work are rewarded. One becomes a comrade by accepting the same challenges as your neighbors and carry on the common struggle to extract wealth from the land and build up the soil and community.
The world is reorganizing itself along occupational lines. Race, religion, skin color etc. are less important than a. how extremely wealthy you are or not (billionaires of any country or religion are bestie friends and dont give a shit about you the commoner, regardless of common country affiliation), b. your skills and career (a farmer in Japan will respect and accept a farmer from America much better than she will a stock broker from Tokyo; a local auto garage will respect a Greek engineer with experience rebuilding cars much more than someone from Osaka who never worked a day in his life because his family is rich, or even a local neighbor who does not understand or care about how cars work and who makes money by keyboarding on social media; a welder or electrician will respect a foreign welder or electrician struggling to rebuild metal work or wiring a broken down house much more than they will a lazy local guy who is afraid of hard work.
There are "awake" people in every country on the planet who understand what is going on, and recognize, appreciate, respect, and want to cooperate with like minded people from any country, race or religion. We need to cooperate to get anything done in the modern world. Mental attitude and ability to work hard and cooperate are most despositive.
I will insult many by saying this and I will not respond to keyboarder blowback, but I have to point out that people who spend most of their time behind a chattering keyboard under a glowing screen, and worrying about their investments should not consider starting a new life here.
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Fri, Mar 12, 2021 - 9:00pm
Japan is an extremely organized society- that aint how the rest of it works.
Mots wrote about experiences in Japan, an internationally recognized power with the 3rd largest economy world-wide. Glad enjoys it there and having a good life with like minded friends. Not very representative of the rest of Asia like the wild-west of Cambodia, the kidnap/ransom activities in Philippines, or other places like Panama where robbing the foreigner is standard fare. (Fellow teacher of mine was shot, kidnapped, and held for 18 months for ransom in P.) Japan has been actively engaged in commerce with the USA for years so there's a history between the nations. There's a layer of protection even foreigners enjoy due to social mores and strict law enforcement in Japan you won't see in these other places. It is a very homogenous country with a small percentage of non-citizens so you're not experiencing the marauding invasion problem elsewhere.
Regarding the blow-back: Perhaps the snarky comments about those parasitic, unenlightened retirees throwing money around was a bit too far. Funny how everyone is offended constantly by differing opinions, but ageism is the one prejudice permitted. Bringing money into a region supports local commerce. The Baby Boomer group were mostly employed at entry level jobs by 16 yo and moved house at 18-19yo to work, family, or college. This gives a work year span of 35-45 years. All that time we paid into Social Security and pensions so yes, we will be interested in what happens to it. Think we're entitled to rest some.
Most Asian nations have an age cap of 55yo for employment regardless of your skills/degrees. Know couple of PhDs who were denied work at universities solely on that basis so being a contributing member of society is often out of our hands. Regarding being a good fellow human: agreed. Courtesy and consideration can be helpful, but it will not overcome deep rooted cultural standards. As I wrote, local expat groups actively aided the poor and special needs folks in my area until the govt. shut them down. Know many skilled trades folk here who would willingly teach others, but again, the local govt.s or native tradesmen don't want that influence.
As for the healthcare drain, understand the problem, but from what I've personally seen, those who become incapacitated are repatriated to their home country. The rest of us pay cash into those medical tourism places. That's considered desired income.
The "all my friends and I are working synergistically for the higher consciousness" story, good luck with that. Lived through the age of Hippie Communes of 60s-70s, and the truth is that human nature always reverts back to the basics: need for food/shelter then happiness/love, tainted with self-preservation, greed, lust, criminality. Given enough time in any group, bad things will happen to everyone.
Don't be startled by attitude changes in locals if there's a military conflict/threat or severe economic crash. In China, citizens were beaten by Chinese mobs for owning Japanese made cars at one point due to friction between the two nations. Would you agree that's irrational? Being in Japan you might fare much better than others, but it still won't be pretty.
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Sat, Mar 13, 2021 - 4:11am
Well said
At the end of the day I think ao said it best; If you're going to leave, the safest bet is to go somewhere where you can blend with the look, the language and the culture.
When things go sideways, humans revert to tribalism and they always scapegoat the misfits. I have some American friends who are Chinese...born and raised here in the USA but they speak Chinese and have that cultural background. For THEM...Taiwan, Singapore, and etc would be great options for an expat location. For me, not so much.
I would need an english speaking, white/European country. Not because I think those people are any "better" than anyone else but because thats where I can blend in most easily. Theres an old saying;
"The nail that sticks up will be pounded down"
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Sun, Mar 14, 2021 - 12:52pm
Cameras
To avoid that someone could use your cameras to spy on you you router must be configured to remove broadcast of your Wifi network and implement MAC filtering so that nobody except your devices can enter in your Wifi network
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Sun, Mar 14, 2021 - 3:49pm
The Art of Survival, Taoism and the Warring States
I highly recommend reading Charles Hugh Smith`s short essay regarding how to survive in a degenerate future. see https://www.oftwominds.com/blogmar21/survival-taoism3-21.html
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Mon, Mar 15, 2021 - 2:11am
Excellent survival guide, Mots
@Mots,
The Charles Hugh Smith essay you linked is excellent! Exactly right, too.
Chris' emphasis on developing the 8 forms of capital is on the same wavelength.
Learning skills is a most important pre-crisis undertaking. It's a lot easier to incorporate someone who brings something of value to the table than it is to welcome someone who only has their empty hand out. In hard times people do look out for one another, but it's a whole lot less strain on locals to be helping those who can already help themselves. And those with a voice in community decisions during tough times are they who add value, and don't just drain other people's resources. Newcomers ought to expect to add value before (or alongside) asking for help.
Elinor Ostrom calls it "provisioning" in her analysis of how people sustain shared use of common resources (in her book, Governing the Commons). Everyone who has or wants a right to withdraw from the commons must also have responsibility for provisioning the common resource - that is, a hand in building, sustaining, maintaining, and repairing it so that it renews over the long term. People who move to the country with no useful skills can't meaningfully contribute to provisioning the shared commons of land-based resources.
But local tech schools and even many junior colleges offer classes on practical skills that any urban-centered person can learn before vamoosing to the country: gardening and farming, livestock care, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, concrete work, earth moving, tool repair, etc.
Still, most country people also have guns. For hunting, certainly, but also for protection because the local police can be several tens of minutes away. My town has a contract with the sheriffs department for a local presence between 8:30 and 4:30, M-F. Most of the time, he's writing speeding tickets. Call 911 after hours and on weekends and the state police will arrive in not less than 20 minutes if the on-duty officer happens to be at the barracks building when a call comes in, and quite possibly it'll take 45 or more minutes if he's out in the field.
The presence of guns is not irrelevant to our ability to leave our doors unlocked. But neighbors caring about one another and keeping an eye out for each other's property also matters a great deal.
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Tue, Mar 16, 2021 - 11:01am
how to bolt down a safe
Awesome comments, all valid points from my perspective. Ideally don't just bolt your safe to the sub-floor. Find the floor joists and use beefy lag screws. If you can bolt to a concrete floor, even better. Lot's of detail on the interwebs: https://www.pewpewtactical.com/how-where-bolt-down-safe/
Nothing is guaranteed, but certainly your odds of keeping your things go up if the safe is bolted to the floor. I've seen people with safes just sitting in the bedroom closet, so even bolting to the sub-floor would be an improvement over that.
If you have a hiding place that no one will ever find, no need for a safe at all. Maybe don't keep all your eggs in one basket either. It's an iterative process and I get better every time I think about it, so appreciate everyone's ideas! If you're expecting the F350 and heavy chain scenario, hiding stuff sounds a lot better.
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Thu, Mar 18, 2021 - 5:49am
agnes xyz said:
"The best deterent for crime is a lot of human eyeballs." - Jane Jacobs.
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Mon, Mar 22, 2021 - 7:27am
Nice quality content
I really need this information, lately, I've been through this tragedy and it leaves me to be more careful than before.
Sam | Hempstead Tree Service
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Mon, Mar 29, 2021 - 6:10pm
enjblog said:
Ive been really impressed with the quality of these posts lately. I don't usually stop and read but this one caught my attention. Honestly, home defense is something that needs to be taken seriously depending on your circumstance and the crime rates in the area. In my area we don't really need to worry that much because we have multiple people always at the house and therefore would be a massive deterant to potential thieves, but you never know really! Good to remember. Thanks for sharing this article guys!
-KH
Contact us @: www.cosmetictattootownsville.com.au
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Mon, Jun 07, 2021 - 2:51am
Great post!
Great blog !! You should start many more. I love all the info provided. I will stay tuned. kitchen remodels
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Mon, Jun 21, 2021 - 12:12am
jackslesly19 said:
I was reading the news and I saw this really interesting topic. I will read more home ideas from here.
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Mon, Jun 21, 2021 - 10:11am
garrwilks19 said:
Random Google results can occasionally lead to great blogs like this. You are performing a good job, and we share a lot of opinions. | Roof Replacement
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