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Preparing for Potential Civil Unrest During an Election Cycle

Stay Informed

  • Monitor the news. Follow reliable news sources to track developments.
  • Sign up for local alerts. Utilize any community alert systems and emergency apps such as FEMA, CodeRED, or city-specific services.
  • Monitor social media. It is helpful to follow local law enforcement and community organizations for real-time updates, but be cautious about the potential for misinformation to be spread.

Create Your Safety Plan

  • Identify safe zones. Know where the locations are for police stations, hospitals, and LGBTQ+ community centers in your area.
  • Plan evacuation routes.  Prepare multiple routes to leave your home or city if necessary.
  • Stay home if possible. Avoid crowds, protests, and large gatherings where tensions may escalate.
  • Create a family and friends communication plan. Agree on how you will contact each other in an emergency and where to meet if separated.

Stock Up on Essentials

  • Food and water. Store at least 72 hours' worth of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person in your household per day.
  • First aid kit. Include basic medical supplies and any personal medications.
  • Get cash. Have cash on hand in case ATMs or digital payment services are disrupted.
  • Fuel up. Keep your car’s gas tank full.
  • Supplies. In case of power outages, have flashlights, batteries, portable chargers, and radios ready to go.

Ensure Your Home is Secure

  • Doors and windows. Ensure your home is locked and consider reinforcing entry points if tensions are high.
  • Outdoor lighting. Use motion-activated lights to deter trespassers.
  • Neighborhood coordination. Stay in touch with trusted neighbors to monitor unusual activity.
  • Emergency equipment. Fire extinguishers, basic tools, gas shut off tool, and protective gear (masks, goggles, gloves).

Self-Defense Awareness

  • Non-lethal options. Consider pepper spray or personal alarms for protection.
  • Training. Take basic self-defense classes to feel more prepared.
  • Avoid violence. Engage in de-escalation strategies whenever possible to reduce confrontation.

Mental and Emotional Preparedness

  • Manage stress. Practice self-care and mindfulness to remain calm.
  • Friends and family reassurance: Prepare children and other dependents with simple explanations and instructions to reduce anxiety.
  • Support network. Maintain connections with family, friends, or mental health resources to help cope with uncertainty.

Engage with Your Community

  • Local organizations: Know what local civil groups or community programs offer support during unrest. Find your local LGBTQ+ community center here.
  • Help neighbors in need. When it is safe, check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors and offer help.

Legal Awareness

  • Know your rights. Be informed about the laws related to curfews, protests, and emergency declarations.
  • Document encounters. If you witness unrest, record interactions if safe to do so.

Contingency Planning for Employment or Travel

  • Remote work. If possible, arrange to work remotely if your workplace is near volatile areas.
  • Cancel unnecessary travel: Avoid travel if possible, especially to areas prone to unrest.
  • Supply chain issues. Be aware of possible disruptions in deliveries or public services.