This post is by Bernie Carr, apartmentprepper.com
My previous 4th of July posts were usually about remembering and being grateful for the freedoms that we enjoy in this country. But this 4th of July weekend coming up makes me feel a bit more anxious than in years past. There are more threats to pay attention to, and many people are worried about how it will turn out.
Violence
I think one of the threats you should be aware of is the continuing violence in many major cities. Just to cite a couple of examples:
- 18 people died, 47 were wounded last weekend in Chicago. The victims included four children, one of whom died.
- Seven people were shot within three hours in Philadelphia this past weekend. Of the victims, one person died and two were wounded critically.
- Four cities across the country Indianapolis, Milwaukee, New York and Las Vegas have all reported a spike in crime in the recent weeks, as many inmates were released due to COVID-19 and many courts are not in operation.
Although there was a brief time when crime statistics dipped during isolation, cities are now reporting spikes in burglaries, shootings, murders.
Civil unrest
Protests turning violent, toppling statues continue to occur.
In Provo, UT, a man in an SUV who was slowly driving through protestors was shot. Fortunately, he was able to drive away and take himself to an emergency room. The victim, a 60-year old man, suffered a gunshot wound to his arm and shrapnel in his eye and stomach. The suspect was later caught and booked.
The Department of Homeland Security will be using law enforcement to protect historic landmarks this weekend.
Blue flu
There is talk in many cities that are planning to defund police departments of “blue flu.” this coming 4th of July weekend. Members of many police departments feel vilified and many have been calling in sick.
Whether it will happen or not, you should be aware of the possibility there may not be enough police to control crowds and respond to emergency calls.
COVID-19
The number of people infected by COVID-19 has risen drastically in the past few days, with some states rolling back their reopening plans.
A lot of people are not social distancing or no longer self-isolating. Unfortunately, all it takes is the one time you get exposed.
Wildfires
This time of year is wildfire season in many areas. As of this writing, there are wildfires raging in California, Arizona and Nevada.
What should you do to stay out of trouble?
Avoid crowds
Stay away from areas that attract a lot of people.
Even if you want to attend a parade, consider whether it’s worth it for you or your family to get exposed to the coronavirus.
If you must attend a parade or gathering, avoid taking children or elderly people, as they are more vulnerable, in case violence breaks out.
Plan any activities including grocery shopping away from areas that are attracting protestors.
Plan your own special event at home
Some people are hold socially distanced parties at their home. You can have guests in a backyard barbecue or patio, wherever you have space to accommodate a few people.
Avoid triggering topics
People get very sensitive and irritable about certain topics. Friends and family members may not agree with your political views. It may be a good idea to avoid discussing topics that get people all riled up, whatever side of the political spectrum you might be on.
Do not shoot firearms into the air
Every year, people get shot by stray bullets from firing guns into the air.
Think twice about fireworks
Fireworks and dry weather are a combination that could spark a wildfire.
Check your car survival kit
If you are planning to be on the road, make sure your vehicle has a car survival kit, as well as a first aid kit.
Discuss safety with your family
Don’t take safety for granted, especially if you have teens or young adults in your family. They are more likely to be out and about, or may have some interest in participating in a peaceful protest. Unfortunately, many protests can start out peaceful, and quickly escalate into violence. Discuss what to do if they get caught in a riot or civil unrest.
Stay safe everyone!
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About the author:
Bernie Carr is the founder of Apartment Prepper. She has written several books including the best-selling Prepper’s Pocket Guide, Jake and Miller’s Big Adventure, The Penny-Pinching Prepper and How to Prepare for Most Emergencies on a $50 a Month Budget. Her work appears in sites such as the Allstate Blog and Clark.com, as well as print magazines such as Backwoods Survival Guide and Prepper Survival Guide. She has been featured in national publications such as Fox Business and Popular Mechanics. Learn more about Bernie here.
