There are a number of reasons why cities and even small towns are dangerous…
But there’s one reason above all:
Violence.
Violence comes in multiple forms. Riots, looting, robberies, fights and crime.
Towns and cities have become dangerous concrete jungles.
Like a jungle, law enforcement funding cuts and “reorganizations” mean to a certain extent — it’s survival of the fittest.
Here’s a quick primer on how to survive any form of violence.
Survival in a wilderness is about finding food and being able to shelter yourself.
In an urban setting, it’s about avoiding conflict and being prepared for it if it occurs.
Both require two things:
- Situational awareness: A near constant understanding of where you are, potential threats and a sense of what could occur while in that environment.
- Tactical knowledge: Specific training, practice and knowledge based on those situations you find yourself in.
Situational Awareness in a Town or City
Knowing your surroundings in the city is different than being able to get around.
You may know every hot spot in town, but can you tell when something is about to “go down?”
There are three levels of awareness:
- Awareness of key details: For instance, people at the event/function who don’t seem like they’re there for the event. Private security or causing trouble? Giant bags of bricks laid in the street before/during a big protest. What’s (or who’s) out of place?
- What those details mean: A big bag of bricks in a crowd of angry people, likely means trouble. But is it in front of construction? If there isn’t a construction site someone could be attempting to incite rioting.
- Use that information to predict potential scenarios: Out of place paraphernalia at a soon to be protest spots are details that violence is likely to occur. If it’s on your street, you can then begin to logically think through what would happen. Bricks thrown at law enforcement, broken windows, tear gas. It’s going to be a long night and it’s best to get a hotel and lock up tight before you leave.
Tactical Knowledge for Street Survival
Attaining awareness and predicting scenarios is a big piece to the puzzle.
But what happens if you’re in a situation (predicted or not)?
When you’re in a threatened position, it takes skills that you knew beforehand to get you out.
You’ll need things like:
- Self defense knowledge: Know how to attack someone in vulnerable points, allowing you to quickly get away from confrontation. Kicking pressure points or a solid throat punch are easy tactics to learn.
- Street smarts: This is where knowing your way around town is helpful. Not necessarily the touristy spots, but knowledge of side streets, access points, where to blend in and how to move in congested situations.
- Learn to fight: There’s a difference between knowing a few quick moves to take down an opponent and knowing how to carry yourself in a fight. You can win if you’re outmatched, but it helps to know you can fight.
When you’re out, work on your situational awareness.
While you’re at home, practice self defense and get into fighting shape.
That way, if the urban jungle tries to take you out — you’ll be ready.