Escape & Evasion

• Are Catamarans Safe For Ocean Crossing?

  Catamarans aren't the most common ocean-crossing sailboats, but they're surprisingly safe and capable offshore.

  Catamarans are safe for ocean crossings. In fact, catamarans are often much safer than similarly-sized monohulls offshore. Safety comes from increased motion comfort, great stability, speed, and excess buoyancy due to lack of ballast.

  In this article, we’ll examine if catamarans are safe (or safer) than monohulls for offshore cruising and ocean passages. We’ll also examine the benefits of cruising catamaran design, along with how these vessels handle in different offshore conditions.

  We gathered the information used in this article from offshore sailing guides and reputable catamaran experts. We also examined design guidelines for offshore cruising boats, including head-to-head tests done between catamarans and other vessels.

• Armour as a Bug-Out Vehicle

  When asked for their personal choice for a bug-out vehicle, many arm-chair warriors will select an armoured vehicle. While those armoured vehicles are awesome to look at, and may make great exploration vehicles, they make terrible bug-out vehicles. And you can not live in them any longer than a few days.

• Borders: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

  October 11, 2022.

  The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues to falter, as Russian troops run low on everything.

  Within the last two weeks Russia began conscripting civilians to join the military, in a desparate attempt to bolster troop numbers. This resulted in an immediate flood of Russian citizens attempting to escape the country, trying to avoid the draft. On the first night, airports were packed as every aircraft leaving Russia was sold out. Borders with neighbouring Finland and other Baltic countries had long queues of vehicle and foot traffic.

  This brings to mind the questions of borders, and their benefits and drawbacks... The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.

  Build The Wall!

  There are some people in the USA that are very confusing. One minute they will be screaming that you can't trust the government, "Big Brother is out to get you". The next minute those same people are hollering "Build the wall!".

  Borders are designed primarily to keep foreigners out. But those same walls can also be used to keep citizens in.

• Crossing Borders in a Crisis: Passports, Cash, Credit, & Respectability

  Guest article by Penrod

  We recently sent in our passports for renewal. While we don’t do a lot of international traveling- maybe once in 5 years or so- we do keep our passports up to date. Ours expire in August, and since some countries won’t allow entry on a passport with less than six months left on it, it was time to renew. Yes, that does mean that for certain purposes, like entry to another country, passports for practical purposes expire six months before they say they do.

  It is true that if things are so bad in the US that we must flee the country, other places may be worse, or may simply refuse Americans entry. On the other hand, getting from Point A in the US to Point B in the US MIGHT require crossing a border. I used to drive from Wisconsin to New England every summer. I usually took the US route, but once I tried the Canadian route. That is where a passport would be critical: it provides route options not open to people who don’t have passports.

  Avoiding a problem area in the US might require a circuitous route, either by driving or flying into another country. If one wanted to get from New England to Idaho during a major breakdown in which the entire Midwest was already in chaos, it might be safer/faster to either drive or fly through Canada. Circumstances at the time would dictate that of course, but not having a passport closes off the option.

• Cruising in a Disaster: Signs to Look Out For When Sailing in an Emergency Situation

  Living on a sailboat as part of your preparedness strategy offers unique advantages, especially when it comes to navigating through or escaping from emergency situations and societal collapse. However, just like any other form of travel, there are risks involved—some more subtle than others. Understanding the signs that indicate a situation is deteriorating can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and comfort during an emergency.

  Recognizing Early Warning Signs

  Economic Instability: One of the first signs you may notice before social collapse occurs is economic instability. Currency values fluctuate wildly, inflation spirals out of control, and goods and services become increasingly expensive without a corresponding increase in quality. In extreme cases, essential items like food and fuel might not be available at all due to shortages or government rationing. If you're observing these patterns while on your sailboat, it’s wise to start thinking about relocating to safer waters sooner rather than later.

  Political Turmoil: Political instability often precedes broader societal collapse. You may observe increased military presence around key infrastructure such as ports and airports; this could signal heightened tensions or impending conflict. The media might report more frequently on political unrest, civil protests, strikes, or even violent actions by factions within the population. Additionally, government officials may issue increasingly urgent calls for calm or emergency measures which indicate growing dissatisfaction among citizens.

  Social Unrest: Social unrest manifests differently across cultures but generally involves an increase in crime rates and lawlessness. Criminals exploit situations of chaos to seize control over valuable resources like food supplies or transportation networks. This can lead to looting, vandalism, and other forms of property destruction. An atmosphere of fear might set in as people become wary of strangers and less willing to cooperate with authorities.

  Physical Signs of Deterioration

  Infrastructure Failure: Infrastructure failures are another critical indicator that something is going wrong within society. Power outages could last for days or even weeks without any sign of restoration, leading to widespread discomfort and disruption. Water supply systems may fail entirely if not properly maintained during periods of unrest or war, resulting in severe shortages and health hazards.

  Communication Disruptions: Communication disruptions can also serve as early warnings about looming disasters. Cellular networks might degrade rapidly due to lack of maintenance or intentional interference by hostile forces attempting to spread misinformation. Satellite phones could become unreliable too since they rely heavily on satellite coverage that may be interrupted during conflicts involving space assets.

  Strategic Navigation Tips

  Avoid Conflict Zones: It's important for preppers and survivalists alike to avoid areas where conflict is likely, whether natural disasters or human-made ones. Familiarize yourself with maps of potential conflict zones so you know which routes to steer clear from when navigating through disaster-stricken regions. For example, if there’s a known oil spill in the area, consider going around rather than sailing through it.

  Stay Informed: Keeping up-to-date with local news sources will help you stay informed about emerging crises and avoid areas where things are getting worse faster than elsewhere. Reliable maritime channels can provide real-time updates on weather patterns and other navigational hazards. By staying proactive and aware, you'll be better equipped to make sound decisions regarding your course of action during challenging times.

  Develop Alternative Plans: Finally, having multiple backup plans is crucial for any emergency scenario. Depending on the nature of the disaster, different strategies might prove more effective than others. For instance, if a hurricane threatens your current location, knowing alternative anchorages nearby could save lives. Similarly, maintaining relationships with local marinas and captains who operate in various parts of the world allows you to adjust course swiftly when conditions change unexpectedly.

  Conclusion

  Sailing through or away from disaster zones requires vigilance and preparation. By recognizing early warning signs like economic instability, political turmoil, social unrest, infrastructure failure, communication disruptions, and staying informed about potential conflict areas, preppers can enhance their chances of successfully navigating through emergencies safely. Developing alternative plans and maintaining a network of supportive contacts further strengthens your resilience in such situations.

  By being attuned to these indicators and taking appropriate precautions, you're setting yourself up for success whether dealing with natural disasters or broader societal collapse. Remember that careful observation and strategic navigation are key components of effective disaster preparedness when sailing on a sailboat.

• Debunking the EMP Myth: The Truth About Cars and Electromagnetic Pulse

  In the world of prepping and survivalism, there's a prevailing myth that an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) can instantly turn vehicles into useless metal hulks, stranding their owners in a post-apocalyptic scenario. However, a closer look at the scientific evidence suggests that the impact of EMP on cars might be less dramatic than commonly believed. This article delves into the findings of the "Report of the Commission to Assess the Threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attack" to shed light on the actual effects of EMP on automobiles.

  Excerpt from the Report: The "Report of the Commission to Assess the Threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attack" provides a valuable insight into the EMP resistance of cars. The report, which can be accessed here (Page 115), reveals that 37 cars ranging from 1986 to 2002 were tested in an EMP simulation laboratory. The results challenge the widely held belief that EMP renders all vehicles inoperable.

• Different Types of Bug-Out Fuel

  As the world faces the unknown of our current crisis, it is important to be prepared for any kind of disaster. A bug-out bag, also known as “72-hour kits”, should contain items that could help you to survive in an emergency situation, such as for natural disasters. One of the most important items you should include in your bug-out bag is fuel for transportation.

  Having the right fuel to get you out of a bad situation is key. There are various types of fuel that you can have in your bug-out kit, all of which have their own benefits. In this article, we will discuss the different types of bug-out fuel that you should consider including in your kit.

• How to Choose the Best Bug-Out Sailboat for Your Needs

  In times of crisis, having a bug-out plan can mean the difference between survival and disaster. A bug-out plan involves preparing for the worst-case scenario and having a plan to evacuate quickly and safely. One important aspect of a bug-out plan is selecting the right sailboat to escape on. In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing a bug-out sailboat and provide resources for selecting the best sailboat for your needs.

  Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bug-Out Sailboat

  A. Type of boat

  The type of sailboat you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. There are three types of sailboats to consider: mono-hull, multi-hull, and motor sailor.

• How to Prepare for a Disaster: 10 Steps to Ensure Survival

  Natural disasters or man-made crises can strike at any moment, leaving entire communities in chaos. When everything around you is in disarray, it can be difficult to know what steps to take to ensure your safety and that of your family. However, with some planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of survival. Here are ten essential steps to help you weather the storm.

  1. Establish Communication

     In times of crisis, effective communication is essential to keep your loved ones and team members safe. The first step to preparing for an emergency is to establish a reliable means of communication with your family and team. Waiting until an emergency has already happened to develop a plan for communication can be too late, so it's important to do it as quickly as possible.

     If your family members or team members are not in proximity, you'll need to develop a plan for how you'll communicate with each other during an emergency. It's crucial to keep in mind that during certain disasters, such as an EMP, communication over electrical devices may not be possible. This is why it's important to have alternative means of communication, like a ham radio, as a backup option.

  2. Living on a Bug-Out Sailboat: Pros and Cons

     Living on a sailboat has become increasingly popular over the years, especially among those seeking a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle. While some choose to live on a sailboat for the adventure and freedom it offers, others see it as a means of preparing for emergencies or natural disasters. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of living on a bug-out sailboat and what factors one should consider before making the decision to live on one.

     Advantages of Living on a Bug-Out Sailboat

     A. Mobility and flexibility: ability to travel and relocate easily

     One of the biggest advantages of living on a sailboat is the freedom and mobility it provides. Living on a sailboat allows you to easily relocate and explore new places without being tied down to a specific location. It also provides a sense of independence as you have full control over where you go and when you leave. In case of an emergency, a bug-out sailboat can be a useful tool for evacuating from an area quickly.

  3. Nuclear Fallout Map

     A guy named Alex Wellerstein created an interesting project whereby you can simulate a nuclear detonation, and track the likely damage and fallout patterns.

     If you are afraid of a nuclear detonation anywhere in the world, and it's possible effects on you, you should check it out.

     https://nuclearsecrecy.com/nukemap/

      

  4. Ocean Population Density

     The other day I was talking with a friend about population density and the number of people who live on the ocean. So I did some research on the numbers, and here are the results.

     USA

     Total Area = 9,833,520 km² (3,796,742 square miles).

     Population = 331,893,745 (2021 estimate).

     Population Density = 33.6/km² (87/square mile).

     All Land on Earth, including deserts and glaciers

     Total Area = 148,326,000 km² (57,268,900 square miles).

     Population = 7,795,000,000.

     Population Density = 52.6/km².

     Oceans

     Total Area = 361,900,000 km².

     Population = 100,000 estimated*.

     Population Density = 0.00028/km² or 1 person per 4000 square kilometers.

     * = (There are no hard statistics for how many people live on the oceans. There is estimated to be twenty to thirty thousand cruising boats in the world. If we average 3 people per boat, that gives us sixty to ninety thousand people. As such, this is a generous estimate. But even if my numbers are off by a factor of 10, if there's actually 1 million people living on the oceans, it would still be 1 person per 400 km²).

     Comparison

     To relate that density to the USA, it's the same as if the entire USA had a population of 2,500 people.

     If you related that to the entire planet, it's like the Earth's population was 41,500 people.

  5. Preparing For A Hurricane (Living on Land)

     How To Prepare For A Hurricane

     Beyond Just Flashlights And Batteries

     How often have you heard this ‘typical’ recommendation (from ‘.gov’)?

     "For emergency preparedness keep a disaster supply kit containing 72 hours of food & water, a flashlight with extra batteries, a battery powered radio, and a First Aid Kit."

     While those preps are simply logical, it seems ridiculous to even have to suggest them (who doesn’t already have a flashlight in their home?). What’s worse, it may be portrayed that these ordinary preps are adequate to weather the storm (hurricane?)! Really?

     Here are a few recommendations to help make better decisions and judgements during a time when there’s a hurricane in the forecast:

  6. Pros & Cons of a Bug-Out Boat

      

     Having a bug-out boat is similar to a bug-out vehicle or a bug-out location, but combines the best of both.

     PROS:

     • you can escape any disaster area, even when governments want to stop travel. Police/military can close roads, you can't close the ocean.
     • gathering food is simple. Anyone can fish, while hunting/trapping takes skill
     • you can generate your own electricity and water
     • when travelling you take your house and all your supplies with you. And all your comforts too... if you have to leave your house are you going to take your Playstation & 50" TV? We've got ours!
     • being on the water is much safer than being on the land. 2021 saw 132 incidents of violent crime on all the oceans (ICC International Maritime Bureau). There were likely more violent crimes in your state every single day.
     • sailing is easy to learn. We taught ourselves with books and videos, but lessons are easy to find
     • you can start relatively inexpensively. If you can afford a house, you could have bought an ocean crossing boat
     • Sailing to Freedom: How One Family Built Their Dream Boat and Set Sail to Live Life on Their Own Terms

       150 to 200 years ago, American pioneers envisioned a life of liberty and the prospect of catching their initial view of the Pacific Ocean. While some were enticed by the allure of mountains and new frontiers, others found the sense of liberation in the journey itself, traversing unfamiliar territories on horseback during the day and bedding down under the vast sky at night. For them, freedom meant constantly moving forward.

       Our own quest for freedom started after growing up in Toronto.  We had already "gone west" to live in Northern Ontario and build our farm, living as self-sustaining a life as we could. But we weren’t free. Tied to our land, we struggled under burdensome government regulations and taxes, and the realization that we would be unable to protect or defend it all should society collapse.

       We dreamt of our future. It would be a better life, one in which we would be truly independent and self-sufficient, answering to no one. 

       We would go to sea!

     • Sailing to Safety: How to Escape Urban Areas in a Crisis

       Urban areas can be bustling centers of activity, but they can also be dangerous during crises. Natural disasters, civil unrest, terrorism, pandemics, and other crises can quickly turn urban areas into hazardous environments. In such situations, finding a means of escape can be challenging. Sailing can be an effective and safe means of escaping urban areas in a crisis. This article will explore how sailing can be used as a means of escape during a crisis, and provide guidance on how to prepare for and undertake such a journey.

       Understanding Urban Crisis Scenarios and Risks

       Urban areas can be subject to various types of crises, including natural disasters and man-made disasters. Natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and hurricanes can occur without warning, while man-made disasters such as civil unrest, terrorism, and pandemics can develop over time. Identifying and evaluating the risks associated with each crisis is essential in determining the severity and urgency of the situation.

     • The Best Bug-Out Sailboat Routes for Escaping Disaster

       When it comes to escaping a disaster, having a plan is crucial. While some people may opt for land-based evacuation routes, others prefer to take to the sea. A bug-out sailboat can provide a versatile and reliable means of escaping disaster zones. In this article, we will explore the best bug-out sailboat routes for escaping disaster scenarios.

       Understanding Disaster Scenarios and Risks

       Before we can choose the best bug-out sailboat routes, we must first understand the types of disasters that may require such action. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and floods can quickly turn a once-safe area into a danger zone. Man-made disasters such as wars, political unrest, pandemics, and terrorist attacks can also pose significant risks to personal safety.

       It is essential to identify and evaluate potential risks and their likelihood of occurrence. Understanding the severity of potential disasters can help us plan and prepare accordingly. For example, areas prone to hurricanes may require a more robust sailboat and a route that avoids potential storm paths.

     • The Ultimate Guide to Bug-Out Vehicle Types

       Why People Bug Out: Understanding the Need for Emergency Evacuation

       In recent years, the concept of "bugging out" has gained popularity in the emergency preparedness community. But what does it mean to "bug out" and why do people feel the need to do it? In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind bug out strategies and their importance in emergency situations.

       What is "bugging out"?

       Firstly, let's define what it means to "bug out". In simple terms, it is the act of leaving your home or current location in response to a perceived threat or danger. This could be a natural disaster, civil unrest, or any other situation that requires quick evacuation. It can also refer to leaving a densely populated area and moving to a safer location, such as a rural area or a designated emergency shelter.

     • Top 10 Overlooked Survival Tips You Need To Know Today

       The world is facing numerous challenges, from political instability to economic turmoil, and natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. In the face of these threats, it's important to be prepared for whatever comes our way. While there are many survival tips out there, there are some that are often overlooked but could be essential in a survival situation. Here are the top 10 overlooked survival tips you need to know today:

       1. Hide your valuables: It's important to hide your valuables so they can't be stolen, but it's equally important to remember where you've hidden them. A good idea is to bury them in your garden and take a photo of a family member standing in that spot. Put copies of the photo in the family bug out bags and make sure everyone knows what they're for.

       2. What are the benefits of having a sailboat when there's a disaster?

          Having a sailboat during a disaster can offer several benefits for individuals and communities affected by a crisis. Here are some of the main advantages of having a sailboat during a disaster:

          1. Mobility: In a disaster situation, mobility and flexibility is often critical for reaching safety or providing assistance to others. A disaster area may be inaccessible to cars or trucks, such as flooded streets, damaged roads, or areas with limited infrastructure. A sailboat is not dependent on roads or other infrastructure, which can be damaged or blocked during a disaster. Having a mobile and flexible form of transportation, such as a sailboat, can allow you to bypass these obstacles and reach your destination more quickly and safely. It can navigate through shallow waters, go around debris or other obstacles, and even sail upwind, allowing it to access areas that might be difficult or impossible to reach by other means. This can be particularly useful for evacuating individuals or transporting supplies to areas that are difficult to access.

             Mobility and flexibility are crucial because they allow you to adapt and respond to rapidly changing conditions, and provide options for evacuation, relocation, and access to resources.

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