How to Prepare for Potential Election Unrest

Elections are just around the corner, and it's no secret stress and emotions are running high. Having a plan now is important. Making advance preparations can allow you to be ready to keep informed and guard your safety and well-being if need be. Here's a thorough guide on what you can do now, just in case anything happens at anytime:

Keep Your Ear To The Ground, Your Eyes On The News

Keep up with reliable news sources for accurate information on voting, any protests, or disruptions. Track local news for updates unique to your area and turn on emergency notifications on your phone.

Since most modern phones automatically receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) through your carrier, you usually do not need to actively sign up for emergency alerts on your phone. Just go to the settings, select notifications, and make sure "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alerts" are enabled, depending on your device.

Stock Up And Store Essential Resources

Food and Water: Try for a supply that will last for one week or more. I have plenty of articles on how to do this quickly and cheaply.

Make sure you have at least two weeks' worth of prescriptions, first-aid supplies, and hygienic basics. Keep in mind any over-the-counter needs you might have, such as allergy medication or aspirin.

Get Ready for Travel and Evacuations

Maintaining a full gas tank will help you to make sure you can travel without delay should necessary. Public transit could be disrupted, so having your own means of mobility is absolutely important.

Know several different ways to get to and from key locations, such as grocery stores or hospitals, and spot safe areas along the way. Talk about and decide family members' evacuation arrangements for these routes. Call a meeting and make sure everyone knows the strategy.

Strengthen Your House, Protection and Defense

Store Vital Documents: collect IDs, passports, legal documents, and insurance records and keep them in an easily reachable safe space. These should be easy to grab should you have to leave the house fast.

Analyze security measures: Look over the security of your house. Lock all windows and doors; if necessary, think about adding more locks; move furniture in front of weaker doors or windows.

Make sure outdoor lights are in operation to increase the view of your house and yard. Install motion-sensor lights, particularly close to access points, if needed.

Create A Communication Plan

Emergency Contact List: List family, neighbors, and community resources among your emergency contacts. Tell your family who to call should someone be unable to go home or if you are separated. Actually write these on paper in case the grids go down for awhile.

Devices and Chargers: Carry portable chargers and fully charge every gadget. In uncertain circumstances, communication could be crucial, so think about buying a power bank as a backup. You can still get one in time if you order now.

Understanding Your Rights and Local Laws

Know Local Laws: Learn any rules or restrictions that might be in place. This information will help you steer clear of unintentional conflicts that may happen.

Safety: Carry ID and a list of emergency contacts anywhere you go.

Preserve Your Mental Health

Limit News Consumption: continuously being in front of news that causes tension can compromise your mental health. Try scheduling particular times to check the news, and pause to concentrate on other things. This sounds contradictory to what I said earlier about being glued to the TV for updates, and you're right. But too much consumption of doom and gloom will make you feel gloomy.

For comfort and direction, keep in touch with friends, relatives, or support groups. Engaging in safe social events unrelated to the election can help to reduce anxiety and offer other support tools.

Although it may seem overwhelming to be ready for any sort of unrest, early steps now can make all the difference. Staying educated, protecting your house, and getting ready with essential resources will help you to meet any obstacle that presents itself. Please stay safe out there!