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Skill Set: Survival Tactics
By Tiger McKee
Think 'tactics' and our mind immediately goes to the skills needed to fight an armed threat. Very few of us think about natural threats, such as the tornado that ripped through our community on Good Friday a couple months ago. Although we didn't suffer any damage, just north of us looked like a giant weed-eater had made a run through the area. Even though Gretchen and I were prepared for something like this, we did learn a few lessons.
First, although we have a plan, it didn't work out like we planned, which is usually the case. She and our dogs were up at the house, while I had a group of students in the classroom finishing up a session. The only thing we could do was hold; I couldn't send the students off in weather like that, and our small storm shelter won't hold that many people. Make plans, but remember to factor in for the unexpected.
Our emergency backpacks have essential gear - first aid supplies, light sources, water filters, and our home has propane-powered appliances that work without electricity. We have a stock of food that doesn't require refrigeration so we can hold out a few days, and if it's cold we have a fireplace. But, I have decided we need a generator.
With the roads covered by trees our vehicles were useless, and since there is only one road in and out of our area it took a while for clearing crews to get in. Our area is surrounded by water, so the mode of transportation after the tornado was by boat. Now I'm thinking about alternative methods of transportation like a dirt bike or four-wheeler and a small flat-bottom boat. And remember no power means no working gas pumps. Keep your vehicles full. Our 'empty' is a half a tank. When it gets to that point we fill it up. This is especially critical if you need to evacuate an area with large numbers of people moving and gas in short supply.
Be prepared to help others. The family of one of my students that day was right in the middle of the tornado's path. As soon as possible I grab my medical bag and we head off on foot - the roads are completely blocked with trees and power lines - to get to his family. Along the way we check on other residents; they are little shook up but no injuries. After reaching his family we flag down a boat to get them back to our house, where they end up staying a couple of days.
Finally, think about a worst-case situation. You can't evacuate, there are angry mobs near you, and you have to hold and protect your home. Everyone capable should be trained and ready to defend against looters, and it might be a good idea to co-ordinate with neighbors to combine your assets. Remember that lucks favors the prepared, so get ready. This applies to fighting and survival.
Tiger McKee is director of Shootrite Firearms Academy, located in northern Alabama, author of The Book of Two Guns, a staff member of several firearms/tactical publications, and an adjunct instructor for the F.B.I. (256) 582-4777 www.shootrite.org