How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Massachusetts

On June 13, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Massachusetts, Massachusetts Survival Preppers, UncategorizedLeave a comment

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Massachusetts

Massachusetts might not be the first state you think of when the word riot comes to mind, but the reality is that chaos can erupt anywhere, anytime. Whether you’re in downtown Boston, Springfield, Worcester, or a small town off I-90, being caught unprepared in a civil disturbance could cost you everything. I’ve spent the better part of my life training in survival, self-defense, and situational awareness. I’m not writing this to scare you — I’m writing it to prepare you.

In this guide, you’ll learn the exact methods I use to survive and stay safe when riots break out — especially in urban or semi-urban environments like many found across Massachusetts. We’ll dive into 8 practical self-defense skills, 3 DIY ways to create survival weapons, and top-level situational awareness tips you won’t find in your average survival manual.

Understanding the Threat: What Happens During a Riot?

A riot isn’t just a loud protest. When things get violent, you’ve got looters, arsonists, aggressive crowds, and people who don’t care about laws or your safety. Police may be overwhelmed or slow to respond. Roads get blocked. Cell towers may become overloaded. You’re on your own — at least for a while.

Your goal isn’t to win a fight. Your goal is to get home safe or secure a shelter where you can wait things out. That said, if you have to defend yourself or others, you better know how to do it right.

8 Self-Defense Skills Every Prepper Should Master During Civil Unrest

1. Situational Awareness (The Gray Man Principle)

This isn’t a fight skill — it’s a survival skill. Always scan your surroundings. Identify exits, crowd behavior, and choke points. Dress inconspicuously. Don’t wear tactical gear or expensive clothes. Blend in and don’t draw attention — become the gray man. People ignore what doesn’t stand out.

2. Verbal De-escalation

If someone’s targeting you in the chaos, use a calm, assertive tone. Many aggressors back off when they don’t get an emotional reaction. Learn how to control your body language. Keep your hands open, voice steady, and tone neutral.

3. Palm Heel Strike

If you’re forced to strike, use your palm, not your fist. It’s harder to injure yourself and delivers massive force. Aim for the chin, nose, or throat. This can buy you a few seconds to escape.

4. Elbow Strike

In close quarters (and riots are all about close contact), your elbows are devastating. Use them if someone grabs you or tries to push you to the ground. Horizontal or downward strikes can incapacitate a threat instantly.

5. Escape From Wrist Grabs

Whether it’s law enforcement pulling you into a crowd or a rioter trying to drag you, break their grip by rotating your wrist toward the weakest part of their grip (usually between thumb and fingers) and pulling away sharply.

6. Use of Barriers

A trash can lid, backpack, or even a car door can be a makeshift shield. Always look for something to place between you and a threat — don’t just rely on your fists.

7. Ground Defense Tactics

If you’re taken to the ground, cover your head, curl slightly to protect internal organs, and kick outward to create space. Get back on your feet quickly — the ground is a bad place to be during a riot.

8. Improvised Self-Defense Tools

Keys between fingers, a tactical flashlight, or even a rolled-up magazine can be defensive weapons. You don’t need to carry a weapon — you need to think like a weapon. Train with what’s around you.

3 DIY Survival Weapon Skills You Can Learn Today

Note: These weapons are strictly for emergency defense during extreme situations. Know your local laws.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

A 1-inch PVC pipe cut to 18–24 inches and filled with sand or nails makes a powerful non-lethal impact tool. Wrap it with duct tape for grip. It’s light, concealable, and effective.

How to make:

Cut PVC to length
Seal one end with a glued-on cap
Fill with sand or nails
Cap the other end and wrap it

2. Sling Weapon (Rock or Metal Projectile)

A braided paracord sling or even a basic one made with shoe laces and cloth can launch small projectiles at serious speed. It’s not just for hunting — it can be used to break windows, distract threats, or provide cover.

Tip: Practice your aim. This takes skill.

3. Improvised Spear or Pike

Take a broom handle or mop stick, whittle down the tip to a point or duct-tape a kitchen knife securely to the end. This gives you reach and keeps threats at a distance. It’s crude but effective when barricaded indoors or defending narrow hallways.

How to React When a Riot Breaks Out Near You

Don’t Investigate – If you hear noise, shouting, or sirens, do not go check it out. Gather intel from a safe distance (police scanners, local radio, citizen apps like Citizen or PulsePoint).
Get Off the Street – Riots move fast. Within minutes, peaceful demonstrations can turn violent. Get inside, lock doors, and barricade if needed. Stay away from windows.
Secure Water and Food – Grocery stores are the first to get looted. You should already have at least a 72-hour supply. If not, now is not the time to be shopping. Use what you have.
Have a Bug-Out Route – Know multiple exit routes from your location. Avoid highways. Take side roads. Avoid public transportation — it’s a magnet for angry crowds.
Use Comms Wisely – Keep your phone charged, but turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to avoid tracking. Text rather than call to preserve battery. Consider a handheld radio or walkie-talkies with friends/family.

Final Tips for Massachusetts Residents

Urban Dwellers: Boston, Cambridge, Lowell — your biggest threat is large, condensed crowds and mass transit gridlock. Know your building’s exits and nearby safe zones like parking garages or office lobbies.
Suburban Areas: Riots may spill over if police get overwhelmed. Fortify windows, keep cars fueled, and avoid main roads. Trust your neighbors? Coordinate now.
Rural Preppers: You’re less likely to see riot spillover, but keep your property secure and be ready to help urban family or friends bug out if needed.

Remember, Massachusetts has strict weapons laws. That’s why the key here is improvisation. Defense isn’t about going on offense — it’s about smart strategy, awareness, and speed.

Final Word From a Lifelong Prepper

You don’t have to be an ex-Marine, a martial arts expert, or a survival show contestant to get through a riot. But you do need to be prepared to move, think, and act decisively when others are panicking. The time to build your skills isn’t when you hear glass breaking — it’s now.

Start small. Learn the techniques. Train your family. Build that DIY baton. Run escape drills. Because when the time comes, your best weapon is the one you already know how to use.

Stay alert. Stay gray. Stay alive.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in North Dakota

On June 12, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn North Dakota, North Dakota Survival PreppingLeave a comment

When chaos breaks loose in a quiet state like North Dakota, it catches most folks off guard. But if you’re a survival-minded individual like me, you know complacency is the enemy. Riots don’t give warnings. They flare up fast—often within minutes—and turn peaceful towns into danger zones. Whether it’s Bismarck or Fargo, once tensions boil over, it’s too late to start thinking about a plan. You either have one, or you don’t. Today, I’m laying out a no-BS guide on how to keep yourself and your family safe when the streets go hot.

Understanding the Threat

Riots are unpredictable, often driven by political unrest, economic frustration, or social tension. While North Dakota isn’t known for civil unrest, don’t confuse calm with permanent peace. If you’re reading this, you’re probably not one to bet your life on the odds—and that’s good. Always expect the unexpected.

The key is preparation. That means having gear, knowing your surroundings, mastering self-defense, and—if it comes down to it—having the skills to build what you need to survive.

8 Self-Defense Skills You Must Master

These aren’t movie tricks or TikTok tactics. These are real, actionable skills that can keep you alive.

1. Situational Awareness

The number one tool in your arsenal isn’t a weapon—it’s your mind. Always scan your environment. Look for exits. Watch body language. If the energy in a crowd shifts, you should feel it before you see it. Trust your gut and act early.

2. De-escalation Tactics

You’re not a hero, and this isn’t the time for ego. If someone confronts you, your first goal is to avoid conflict. Use calm tones, non-threatening gestures, and strategic positioning to keep distance. Walk away before fists fly.

3. Basic Striking Techniques

If you’re forced to fight, keep it simple: palm strikes, elbow strikes, and low kicks. These are powerful, easy to execute, and don’t require years of training. Aim for soft targets like the throat, groin, and solar plexus.

4. Escaping Holds and Grabs

Learn how to break free from wrist grabs, bear hugs, and chokeholds. Use leverage, not strength. The goal is not to overpower, but to escape and move to safety.

5. Improvised Weapon Usage

Know how to use what’s around you. A belt with a heavy buckle, a pen, a sturdy flashlight—these can all become defensive tools. Don’t rely on carrying weapons—rely on your adaptability.

6. Weapon Disarming Basics

This is only for dire situations. If you’re unarmed and someone threatens you with a weapon, disarming could be your last shot. Focus on redirecting, controlling, and neutralizing. It’s risky but better than freezing.

7. Ground Defense

If you’re knocked down, your fight isn’t over. Learn to protect your head, use your legs to create space, and stand back up with control. Never stay on the ground in a crowd—it’s where you’ll get stomped.

8. Team Tactics

If you’re with family or a group, work as a unit. Assign roles—one leads, one watches the rear, one carries supplies. Communicate clearly and stay together. Never let panic scatter your team.

3 DIY Survival Weapon Builds

Sometimes, carrying a weapon isn’t an option. But necessity is the mother of invention. These DIY weapons can be made from common materials and pack enough punch to give you an edge.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Materials: 1″ diameter PVC pipe (2–3 feet), sand or metal nuts, duct tape.

Instructions: Fill the pipe with sand or metal nuts for weight. Seal both ends. Wrap the grip with duct tape or paracord for handling. It’s light, sturdy, and can deliver bone-crushing force when needed.

2. Nail Bat

Materials: Wooden bat or thick branch, nails, hammer.

Instructions: Drive nails through one end of the bat. Wrap the handle with cloth or tape for grip. This is a last-resort weapon—lethal and intimidating. Use only if you’re in extreme danger.

3. Sling Shot Survival Tool

Materials: Y-shaped branch, surgical tubing or bike inner tube, leather pouch.

Instructions: Cut a solid Y-branch and secure tubing to the arms. Attach a leather patch to hold ammo—rocks, bolts, or steel bearings. Silent, light, and powerful at close range.

Best Practices for Riot Survival in North Dakota

Let’s get specific. Here’s how to survive if a riot breaks out in your area:

1. Avoid Hot Zones

If you see smoke or hear sirens—go the opposite direction. Monitor local police scanners or emergency apps like PulsePoint. Avoid downtown areas, government buildings, and protest gathering spots.

2. Shelter in Place if Possible

If your home is secure, don’t go outside. Board up windows, block entrances, and stay quiet. Have a backup power source, drinking water, and a go-bag ready in case you need to leave fast.

3. Blend In

If caught outside, don’t stand out. Ditch any flashy or tactical gear. Neutral colors, no logos. Move like you belong—confident but not confrontational.

4. Know Your Escape Routes

Always have three ways out—on foot, by car, and through side streets or back alleys. Practice these routes with your family. GPS won’t help if networks go down.

5. Communicate Off-Grid

When the grid fails or networks are jammed, use walkie-talkies or ham radios. Texts may still go through when calls won’t. Establish code words with your group ahead of time.

Final Thoughts from a Lifelong Prepper

You don’t rise to the occasion—you fall back on your training. That’s the survivalist creed. During a riot, it’s not about being a hero. It’s about being alive when the dust settles. I’ve seen too many people freeze when the world went sideways, and I’ve made it my life’s work to make sure that never happens to me—or to those who listen.

North Dakota might seem low-risk, but don’t bet your family’s safety on peace lasting forever. Stockpile smart, train harder, and plan like it’s already happening. Because when the streets turn to war zones, it won’t matter who started it—it’ll only matter who walks away.

Stay sharp. Stay prepared. And remember: it’s better to be a year too early than a second too late.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Tennessee

On June 12, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Tennessee, Tennessee Riots, Tennessee’ Survival PreppersLeave a comment

When the streets boil over with chaos and the sirens echo louder than common sense, you’ll quickly learn one brutal truth: you’re either prepared or you’re prey. As a survival prepper with years of training in self-defense and bushcraft, I’ve witnessed the fine line between survival and tragedy. Riots are unpredictable beasts. They erupt fast, spread faster, and leave devastation in their wake. Whether you’re in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, or a small town that rarely makes the news, knowing how to stay safe during a riot isn’t just smart—it’s survival.

Let’s walk through essential knowledge that’ll help you stay alive and protect those you love. This isn’t sugar-coated theory; it’s the kind of practical, field-tested advice forged in fire and reality.

Mindset Before Mayhem: Stay Aware, Stay Ahead

Before we dive into self-defense and survival builds, understand this: survival starts before the first brick is thrown. Situational awareness is your first line of defense. Always be aware of your surroundings. If you see protests forming or tension rising—leave. You don’t want to be a spectator to chaos.

Stay informed through police scanners, local news, and social media, but avoid getting glued to your screen. Have a “go-no-go” bag ready, and a family emergency plan rehearsed.

8 Essential Self-Defense Skills to Survive a Riot

You don’t need to be Bruce Lee. You need to be efficient, decisive, and confident. Here are eight self-defense skills every Tennessean should master to stay alive during a riot:

1. The Fence and Verbal De-escalation

The “fence” is a non-threatening stance with your hands up and open between you and a potential attacker. It’s defensive but looks passive. Combine it with calm, confident verbal de-escalation—your first attempt should always be to defuse, not escalate.

2. Situational Awareness Training

Learn to read a crowd, pick out threats, notice body language, and spot exits. Trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is.

3. Basic Striking Techniques

Master open palm strikes, elbows, and knee strikes. These are devastating in close quarters and don’t injure your hands like punching can. Learn to target the nose, chin, solar plexus, and knees.

4. Escape from Grabs

If someone grabs your wrist, shirt, or backpack, you need fast, instinctive techniques to break free. Use leverage, not strength. Practice wrist breaks, lapel releases, and hair-pull escapes.

5. Ground Defense

In a riot, being on the ground is dangerous. Learn how to break your fall, protect your head, and get up quickly using shrimping and tactical rolls.

6. Improvised Weapon Use

A belt, flashlight, rolled-up magazine, umbrella, or even a backpack can be a weapon. Train with common objects and learn how to use them effectively.

7. Mob Navigation Techniques

Move with the flow of a crowd, not against it. Keep your arms up to protect your chest, and wedge yourself sideways like a swimmer cutting through water. Never get pinned against a wall or fence.

8. Mental Conditioning and Fear Control

Your ability to manage fear is everything. Practice stress inoculation—simulate stressful environments while training. Adrenaline dumps can paralyze or energize; it’s up to your mindset and preparation.

DIY Survival: 3 Ways to Build Weapons for Defense

In Tennessee, you might find yourself miles away from police protection. If looters are breaking into homes or mobs are closing in, having defensive tools—preferably homemade and legal—can save lives.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Materials: 1-inch PVC pipe (18-24 inches), sand, duct tape.
How: Fill the pipe with sand or small gravel, seal both ends with caps or duct tape, and wrap the outside with grip tape. This baton is strong, heavy, and can be carried discreetly.

2. Slingshot with Ball Bearings

Materials: Y-shaped tree branch, surgical tubing, leather pouch, and steel ball bearings.
How: Carve a strong, symmetrical Y-branch, attach surgical tubing to the ends, and fit a leather pouch in the middle. This DIY slingshot can easily deliver deterrent-level damage and fits in a pocket.

3. Door Brace Spear

Materials: Wooden broom handle, long steel screw, electrical tape.
How: Sharpen one end of the broom handle or insert a long steel screw (tip exposed) into the end, and wrap with electrical tape to secure. You now have a spear you can brace behind a door or use in self-defense if a home invasion occurs.

Note: Always check Tennessee state laws about homemade weapons to avoid legal trouble.

Quick Riot Survival Checklist

When a riot ignites, every second matters. Here’s your fast-response list:

Keep your bug-out bag (BOB) packed and in your vehicle or near the exit.
Include water, energy bars, first aid, cash, flashlight, local maps, multi-tool, and ID.
Wear neutral clothing (no logos, nothing politically charged).
Use a mask and goggles for tear gas protection.
Have a rally point for your family to meet if separated.
Avoid major intersections and commercial zones where looters gather.
Park your vehicle nose-out for a quick escape.
NEVER try to reason with a riot. Escape is your mission, not confrontation.

Escape & Evasion in Tennessee’s Terrain

If you’re forced to flee urban areas, Tennessee’s wilderness can be your sanctuary. Know how to use the landscape:

Wooded Escape Routes: The Smokies, Cumberland Plateau, and local greenways offer excellent cover and mobility.
Creekbeds and Rail Lines: Use these to move unseen and avoid roadblocks or mobs.
Abandoned Barns and Outbuildings: Many rural areas have old shelters that can be used temporarily if you need to lay low.

Final Word: Preparation Is the Ultimate Equalizer

When law and order break down, your ability to stay calm, defend yourself, and move smart becomes your currency of survival. Tennessee is a proud, resilient state with a deep heritage of independence. Channel that strength, but don’t let pride get you killed. You’re not trying to win a fight—you’re trying to win the right to keep living.

Stay alert. Train hard. Prep smart. And remember: fortune doesn’t favor the bold—it favors the prepared.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Pennsylvania

On June 12, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Survival PreppersLeave a comment

When civil unrest erupts, the rules of normal society get tossed out the window. If you find yourself in Pennsylvania during a riot—whether in Philly, Pittsburgh, or a small town—you need to shift from civilian mindset to survivalist instinct fast. I’ve lived through hurricanes, blackouts, and civil unrest. Let me tell you: chaos doesn’t send a warning text.

If you’re caught unprepared, you’re a target. But with the right mindset, skills, and tools, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Here’s how a seasoned survival prepper handles a riot scenario.

First: Situational Awareness is Your Survival Bedrock

Before you ever have to throw a punch or swing a bat, your awareness will keep you alive. Monitor your surroundings constantly. Know the difference between a peaceful crowd and a mob ready to burn everything in sight. Stay updated on local news, and if something starts brewing, trust your gut. Don’t wait. Get out early if you can.

Install police scanner apps and follow local emergency channels. If you’re on foot, avoid bottlenecks like alleyways or fences. If you’re in a vehicle, keep your gas tank above half at all times and know at least three alternate routes out of town.

8 Self-Defense Skills Every Prepper Should Master

In a riot, 911 is likely overwhelmed or unavailable. That means you are your own first responder. Whether you’re defending yourself or your family, here are the self-defense skills that matter most:

Situational De-escalation
Learn how to defuse tension verbally and with body language. Sometimes not fighting is the smartest fight you’ll win.
Krav Maga Basics
This Israeli martial art was designed for real-world violence. Focus on neutralizing threats fast—groin strikes, eye gouges, and throat punches are not dirty; they’re smart.
Palm Heel Strikes
Avoid hurting your own hand. A palm heel to the nose or jaw is devastating and easy to learn.
Elbow Strikes
In close quarters, nothing beats the elbow. Short, fast, and bone-breaking.
Improvised Weapon Training
Know how to turn a flashlight, pen, or belt buckle into a weapon. A sturdy tactical pen can be life-saving.
Ground Defense
If you end up on the ground, know how to protect your face and get back up. Jiu-jitsu fundamentals are invaluable here.
Escape From Grabs
Practice breaking holds. A wrist grab can lead to a beatdown—or a quick reversal if you’ve trained properly.
Weapon Retention & Disarmament
If someone pulls a weapon on you, your goal is either to flee or disarm fast. Learn the basics of redirecting a knife or firearm—timing and confidence are everything.

3 DIY Survival Weapons You Can Make at Home

Even if you don’t own firearms or they’re not accessible, you can arm yourself legally and discreetly with DIY tools that pack serious deterrent value.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Materials: 1-inch diameter PVC pipe (2 feet), sand or BBs, duct tape.
Instructions: Fill the pipe with BBs or sand to give it weight, seal both ends, wrap with duct tape for grip. It hits hard and won’t attract as much attention as a metal bat.

2. Improvised Spear

Materials: A broomstick, kitchen knife, duct tape, paracord.
Instructions: Lash the knife to the end of the stick tightly. Works for both defense and deterrent purposes, especially if you’re defending your home.

3. Slingshot with Metal Ammo

Materials: Commercial slingshot, ball bearings or marbles.
Instructions: Practice accuracy. A slingshot can take down small game or discourage an aggressive attacker without the noise of a firearm.

How To Fortify & Escape Your Home During a Riot

If a riot is headed your way, bugging in is your first line of defense. Fortify your home with these quick strategies:

Block ground-floor windows with furniture or plywood. You’re not trying to win a war, just discourage entry.
Turn off all lights at night to avoid drawing attention.
Create a safe room. If intruders enter, you need one locked, fortified space to regroup and plan an escape if needed.

If the situation escalates and you must bug out:

Don’t take major roads. They’re likely jammed or under police/military lockdown.
Move at dawn or dusk. Less visibility, less risk.
Dress like a grey man. Neutral colors, no tactical gear that screams “prepared.” You want to blend in, not stand out.

Quick-Access Riot Survival Kit

Here’s what every Pennsylvanian should keep ready when unrest flares up:

Tactical flashlight with strobe
Filtered water bottle or Lifestraw
Multi-tool or fixed blade knife
First aid kit with blood clotting gauze
Smoke mask or N95
Sturdy gloves (for climbing or dealing with debris)
Copies of ID in a waterproof bag
Map with marked safe routes out of town
Cash in small bills
Energy bars or MREs

Mindset: The Ultimate Survival Tool

If you panic, you lose. Stay calm, focused, and decisive. Panic is contagious. So is confidence. Your demeanor will influence your family and those around you. In a riot, fear spreads like fire. Be the firebreak.

Trust your instincts. Don’t hesitate. If you see things are spiraling, don’t wait for permission to act. It’s always better to leave too early than one minute too late.

Final Thoughts From a Seasoned Prepper

Riots in Pennsylvania aren’t just a big-city problem anymore. With social tension boiling across the country, even rural towns can become hotspots overnight. You don’t need to be a doomsday bunker-dweller to be prepared. You just need to take your safety seriously.

Train your body. Train your mind. Prepare your home. Learn to defend yourself and protect what matters.

Because in the end, when the system fails, you’re all you’ve got.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Montana

On June 12, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Montana, Riots in Montana, self defenseLeave a comment

Riots can spark anywhere—yes, even in the wide-open expanses of Montana. From Bozeman to Billings, no place is immune when tensions rise and order collapses. I’ve spent decades preparing for the unexpected: training in self-defense, bushcraft, and survival tactics in all environments, urban and wild. And today, I’m going to share essential techniques to stay alive, stay sharp, and stay free during civil unrest.

A riot is not a political movement; it’s chaos in motion. You don’t want to be caught in the middle of it unprepared. Whether you’re protecting your homestead, bugging out, or just trying to get your family to safety, here’s a hard-hitting, no-BS guide for staying safe in a Montana riot.

8 Essential Self-Defense Skills You Need to Master

1. Situational Awareness
Before you even throw a punch or grab a weapon, you need to see the danger coming. Situational awareness means being alert to shifts in crowd energy, sudden movement, or bottlenecks in a street. Keep your head on a swivel. Use reflections in windows, avoid distractions like phones, and always have an exit route mapped out in your head. Know the difference between a protest and a riot—there’s a fine line, and you’ll know when it’s crossed.

2. Verbal De-escalation
This skill can save your life more often than a right hook. Speak calm, clear, and firm if someone gets in your face. Don’t posture or insult. Disengage and redirect attention if possible. The real win in self-defense is not having to fight at all.

3. Improvised Weapon Training
If you didn’t bring a weapon, make one. A metal flashlight, car keys in your fist, or even a rolled-up magazine can become effective tools in the right hands. Train with random objects, learn their weight, balance, and striking capabilities.

4. Palm Heel Strikes and Elbow Hits
Punching is for boxers. In a real street fight, your fist can break easier than you think. Instead, use your palm heel to strike the nose or chin. Elbows are devastating in close quarters. Fast, brutal, and less likely to injure your own hand.

5. Escaping Holds and Grabs
You get grabbed, you get dead—unless you know how to break free. Practice escaping wrist locks, bear hugs, and chokes. Remember, leverage beats strength. Use momentum and body positioning. Bite, gouge, and stomp if needed—this is survival, not a dojo tournament.

6. Shielding Techniques
Learn how to protect your vital organs and head during a physical confrontation. Using your arms to form a shield in front of your head and torso can minimize damage from blunt-force attacks. Practice this while moving; it should be second nature.

7. Ground Defense
If you fall, the fight isn’t over—it just changed levels. Learn to fight off your back, using kicks, sweeps, and fast recoveries. Getting to your feet quickly is essential. On the ground in a riot means you’re a target. Don’t stay there.

8. Escape and Evasion Tactics
You need to know how to disappear. Blend in with the crowd, avoid attention, and use alleyways and side streets. In Montana’s urban zones like Missoula or Helena, scout areas ahead of time and plan low-traffic exit routes. Carry a bandana or mask for dust, smoke, and ID concealment.

3 DIY Survival Weapons You Can Build in a Pinch

When lawlessness takes over, you might have to defend your family. These DIY weapons are quick, legal to build, and effective.

1. The Sock Mace
Take a heavy padlock, drop it into a thick athletic sock, and tie a knot at the open end. Swing it fast and hard—it’s like a medieval flail. Easy to conceal, quick to make, and hits like a hammer.

2. PVC Pipe Spear
Cut a length of PVC pipe around 4 to 5 feet. Sharpen a steel tent spike or long nail and attach it to one end with paracord and epoxy. Wrap the handle with duct tape or cloth for grip. It’s lightweight and effective for self-defense or even hunting if the grid stays down.

3. Duct Tape & Razor Blade Knuckle Guard
Wrap several razor blades in layers of duct tape with a handle-sized gap in the center. Strap it around your knuckles like brass knuckles. Not for long fights, but if someone closes in and you need to make space now, this gets the job done.

Riot-Specific Safety Tips for Montana

Montana’s geography and sparse population may feel like a safety net—but don’t let it fool you. When unrest hits a major town, help could be hours away.

Don’t rely on 911 – First responders will be overwhelmed. Prepare to be your own backup.
Dress down – Wear neutral, non-descript clothing. No camo, no slogans, no red or blue. Blending in buys time.
Avoid major routes – Highways and main roads will be jammed or blocked. Know alternate routes through backroads, fire trails, or even hiking paths if needed.
Stay indoors unless escaping – A fortified home is better than a panicked crowd. Use furniture to block entry points and keep your lights low.
Have a rally point – If separated from family or your group, have a pre-determined location to regroup. Practice getting there without phones.

Gear You Need (And Why)

Multi-tool – Your lifeline for prying, cutting, fixing.
Flashlight with strobe – Disorient attackers or signal in the dark.
Water filter straw – If stores are ransacked and water lines shut off, this can save you.
Rugged gloves – Protect your hands from glass, debris, and cold.
Kevlar hoodie or jacket – Looks normal, but resists knives and some blunt trauma.
Tactical pen – Writes like a pen, strikes like a spike.

The Prepper’s Mindset: Cold, Calm, Calculated

In a riot, emotions run hot. But you? You stay cold and clear. You don’t get swept into arguments or moral debates—you get home safe. Always think defense first, offense last. You’re not out there to prove anything. Your mission is survival.

Understand that most people don’t prep. They panic. They look for someone to follow—or someone to fight. Stay away from crowds. Keep communication short, decisions fast, and movement constant.

If you’re with others, assign roles: lookout, navigator, enforcer, medic. Train your family. Kids can learn basic defense. Spouses can carry gear and give first aid. A team that trains together survives together.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Wisconsin

On June 11, 2025June 11, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

If you’re reading this, it means you take survival seriously — and you should. Riots are unpredictable, dangerous, and often strike with little to no warning. I’ve seen how quickly a peaceful protest can turn into a battleground. Whether you’re in Milwaukee, Madison, or some small Wisconsin town, chaos doesn’t check your zip code. As a trained survival prepper and self-defense instructor, I’m here to walk you through how to stay safe, avoid confrontation, and — if absolutely necessary — defend yourself and your family.

First Rule: Don’t Be There

This might sound obvious, but it’s the #1 rule in riot survival. If you know tensions are high — political rallies, court verdicts, or viral incidents — stay informed. Download police scanner apps. Monitor social media and local news. If things are heating up in your area, get out early. Don’t wait until you hear sirens.

But let’s say you can’t leave. Maybe you’re trapped at work, or your home is directly in the hot zone. That’s when the real prepping comes into play.

The 8 Self-Defense Skills Every Prepper Needs During Civil Unrest

When push comes to shove, you need more than just courage. You need technique. These self-defense skills will keep you alive and out of harm’s way:

1. Situational Awareness

Most fights are won before a punch is thrown. Train yourself to read body language, listen for crowd shifts, and scan for weapons or hostile movements. Get your head out of your phone and observe your environment like your life depends on it — because it might.

2. Escape & Evasion Tactics

You don’t always have to win a fight — you just need to avoid it. Learn how to identify exits, blend into crowds, and move without drawing attention. A hoodie and a clean pair of sneakers can be your best friends when you need to vanish.

3. Open-Hand Strikes

When you’re unarmed, your hands are your weapons. Master palm strikes, hammer fists, and elbow smashes. These are effective, legal in most jurisdictions, and won’t injure your hand like a closed-fist punch might.

4. Close-Quarters Defense

Riots get messy. If someone grabs you or gets in your face, you need to know how to break free. Practice wrist escapes, choke counters, and clinch control. A strong base and good leverage go a long way.

5. Improvised Weapons Training

A metal pen, a tactical flashlight, even a belt can be a weapon. Know how to use everyday items to defend yourself. A rolled-up magazine can be used like a baton. Don’t underestimate what’s in your pocket.

6. Defensive Knife Handling

If you choose to carry a blade, learn how to deploy it safely and defend yourself without escalating unnecessarily. Wisconsin law allows folding knives and certain fixed blades — know what’s legal and train accordingly.

7. Adrenaline Management

Your heart rate will spike during a riot. Train your breath to stay calm under stress. Practice box breathing (inhale 4 seconds, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4). A calm fighter survives longer.

8. Verbal De-escalation

Sometimes your voice is the strongest weapon. Learn how to stay calm, speak with authority, and de-escalate angry people. Not every encounter needs to go physical. If you can talk your way out, do it.

Shelter in Place: Fortify Your Home

If you’re stuck inside and the riot is moving your way, here’s how to hold your ground:

Lock all doors and reinforce weak entry points with furniture or braces.
Close blinds to avoid drawing attention.
Keep a low profile: No lights, no loud noise, no posting on social media.
Prepare a “silent room” — preferably a bathroom or interior closet with water, first aid, a flashlight, and a blunt object for defense.

DIY Survival Weapon Skills (When Lawful Defense is Necessary)

You don’t need a full arsenal to defend your home. You need creativity, resourcefulness, and a calm mindset.

1. Homemade Baton from a Broomstick

Break or saw a wooden broom handle into 24-inch sections. Wrap the grip with duct tape or paracord. A simple stick can deliver powerful strikes. Always aim for limbs or midsection — never lethal zones unless it’s truly life-or-death.

2. PVC Pipe Slingshot

Using ½” PVC pipe, surgical tubing, and a leather pouch, you can make a compact slingshot capable of launching marbles or steel balls. It’s quiet, easy to hide, and great for distracting or deterring without drawing attention.

3. Pepper Spray Substitute

Crush red pepper flakes or hot chili powder into water and load it into a cleaned-out spray bottle. It won’t be as potent as commercial pepper spray, but it’ll give you an edge in a pinch. Aim for the eyes, then get out of there fast.

Supplies Checklist for Riot Survival

Keep this kit ready and portable:

Flashlight (with strobe mode)
N95 mask (for smoke/tear gas)
Goggles (construction style)
Work gloves
First-aid kit
Bottled water and energy snacks
Portable power bank
Tactical pen or legal pocketknife
Duct tape and zip ties (multi-purpose)
Maps — don’t rely on GPS

Escape Routes and Contingency Plans

Know your city. Study maps. Identify alternate routes — alleys, side streets, overpasses, even drainage ditches. Keep your gas tank above half. If you can leave by car, do it early. If you’re on foot, travel in pairs and avoid bottlenecks like bridges or tunnels.

Wisconsin cities are grid-like, which helps. Avoid state highways if protests are near government buildings. Stick to residential neighborhoods to pass through unnoticed.

What Not to Do

Don’t wear camo, tactical gear, or anything that draws attention.
Don’t film or provoke rioters — phones are targets.
Don’t try to “patrol” your neighborhood unless you’re part of an organized, trained group.
Don’t assume police will help you — during riots, they often have bigger priorities.

After the Riot: Reassess and Recover

When the dust settles, check in with neighbors. Document damage for insurance. If you had to defend yourself, document everything and contact a lawyer. Always stay inside legal boundaries — even in chaos, the law still applies.

Final Word from a Veteran Prepper

You don’t have to be a combat veteran or martial arts expert to survive a riot. You just need clear thinking, simple skills, and the will to act. Preparation beats panic every single time.

If you’re in Wisconsin — or anywhere these days — don’t wait until the streets are burning. Train now. Gear up now. Get mentally sharp now.

Because when it all goes sideways, no one’s coming to save you but you.

How NOT to Die in San Francisco’s Riot

On June 10, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn San Francisco, San Francisco Riots 2025Leave a comment

San Francisco, for all its charm and vibrance, has become a hotspot for unpredictable civil unrest. In a world that feels like it’s teetering on the edge of chaos, you can’t rely on luck or law enforcement alone to stay safe. When the city’s filled with the sound of smashing glass, sirens, and screaming protestors, your safety is your own responsibility.

I’ve spent decades preparing for situations just like this—urban collapse, riots, natural disasters, and breakdowns of civil order. My mission now is to pass on what I know, because survival isn’t about paranoia—it’s about readiness. Below, I’ll teach you eight critical self-defense skills, three DIY weapon hacks, and walk you through how to move, think, and react during a riot in San Francisco—or any urban environment under siege.

1. Situational Awareness: The Mindset of Survival

The first line of defense is always your mind. If you’re walking down Market Street with your earbuds in and your eyes on your phone, you’re prey—plain and simple. During a riot, keep your head on a swivel. Observe crowd movements, police positions, exits, and potential threats. Know your surroundings. Watch body language. Who’s escalating? Who’s panicking? This instinct can save your life. Avoid bottlenecks, dead ends, and never follow the crowd blindly.

2. De-escalation Tactics

You don’t always need to fight. Real skill is knowing when not to. De-escalation is the art of redirecting aggression. Lower your voice. Speak calmly. Keep your hands visible and palms out. Don’t challenge anyone directly. Phrases like “I’m just trying to get out of here,” or “I don’t want trouble,” disarm more people than fists ever will. This can buy you precious seconds to exit or disengage.

3. Urban Camouflage

Blend in. If you’re wearing high-vis gear, luxury brands, or tactical clothing during a riot, you become a target. Wear neutral colors—gray, black, navy. Avoid flashy logos. Think like a gray man. A bandana, a hood, and non-reflective sunglasses can protect your identity and shield you from tear gas. In a riot, anonymity is power.

4. Quick Strike Self-Defense (QSSD)

Sometimes, there’s no way to avoid a confrontation. Learn QSSD techniques—targeting the soft tissue: eyes, throat, groin. Use open-hand strikes or short, aggressive punches. You’re not trying to win a fight. You’re trying to create space and escape. One of my favorite tools is the palm-heel strike to the chin or nose. It’s fast, brutal, and can stun an attacker long enough for you to get away.

5. Escape and Evasion Skills

If things go south, don’t stick around to film it. Know your exits. Riot routes shift fast. Side alleys, fire escapes, rooftops, and even underground parking garages become survival pathways. Use Google Maps to pre-mark safe zones and alternate exits. Learn how to break restraints. Keep a mini escape kit on you: handcuff key, paracord, mini flashlight, and a utility blade hidden in your wallet or belt.

6. Weapon Retention

If you carry a defensive weapon—knife, baton, pepper spray—you’d better know how to keep it. Rioters may try to disarm you in a scuffle. Practice retention techniques: tight grip, weapon close to the body, non-dominant hand protecting your centerline. Use your environment to brace or shield while deploying your weapon. Don’t pull unless you’re ready to use it.

7. Improvised Weapons Training

Anything can be a weapon. A steel water bottle, a belt with a heavy buckle, a flashlight, even a rolled-up magazine. Know how to adapt. If you’re cornered, use a key between your fingers for strikes or your backpack as a shield. Train your mind to see tools in everyday objects. This isn’t about aggression—it’s about defense when your back is against the wall.

8. Ground Defense and Breakaway

If you’re knocked to the ground, the fight isn’t over—but you’re at a huge disadvantage. Learn to protect your head and vital organs. Shrimping and break-falls from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can save you from injury. A fast kick to the shin or knee from the ground can give you a second to get up. Never stop moving. Your goal is to get back on your feet—fast.

DIY Survival Weapon Skills

When traditional weapons aren’t available, it’s time to get creative. Here are three DIY weapon builds anyone can make with urban materials:

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Grab a piece of PVC pipe, about 18 to 24 inches long. Fill it with sand or small rocks. Cap both ends with duct tape. You’ve now got a solid impact weapon that can easily be carried in a backpack or gym bag. It’s legal-looking, but hits hard.

2. Slingbow Conversion

Take a basic slingshot and modify it with zip ties and paracord to shoot arrows. This won’t stop a riot, but it can protect you from aggressive threats at a distance in the wild or during prolonged civil unrest. Compact and quiet.

3. Tactical Spear from a Mop Handle

Break or saw off a broom or mop handle. Duct-tape a sharpened kitchen knife (or better yet, a survival blade) to the end. Reinforce the joint with paracord or a hose clamp if available. Instant spear—great for holding off threats in confined spaces.

How To Survive a Riot in San Francisco: Step-By-Step

Avoidance is King – Stay informed. Use police scanners, Twitter, Citizen app, and local Reddit threads. If unrest is growing, stay away from protest zones—especially Civic Center, SoMa, and the Mission District.
Have a Go-Bag Ready – A small EDC pack with first aid, water, flashlight, gloves, KN95 mask (tear gas protection), and power bank is a must. Lightweight shoes, neutral clothes, and cash are non-negotiables.
Plan Your Exit Route – Know the side streets and where the riots are migrating. Don’t rely on public transport; buses and trains often shut down.
Avoid Getting Boxed In – Don’t get caught between protestors and riot police. Both sides will pressure you. Stick to the periphery and keep moving.
Don’t Film or Broadcast – Not only can this attract attention from hostile actors, but it also paints a target on your back. Be invisible, be mobile.
Watch for Triggers – Fire, broken glass, fireworks, or gunshots signal escalation. When you see the energy shift, that’s your cue to leave immediately.
Avoid Confrontation – Even if someone provokes you, walk away. The riot is not the time for ego or moral high ground. Your life matters more than pride.
Meet-Up Plan – Have a trusted person you check in with. If you get separated or your phone dies, agree on a meetup location beforehand.
Stay Calm Under Pressure – Fear clouds judgment. Breathe. Think. Then move. Your calm will be your compass when chaos surrounds you.
Aftercare – Once safe, disinfect any wounds, rest, hydrate, and mentally decompress. PTSD is real—even if you “got out okay.”

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a martial arts expert or ex-military to survive a riot in San Francisco. But you do need to train, think ahead, and prepare like your life depends on it—because one day, it might.

Violence is never the goal. But survival is. And in today’s world, there’s no excuse not to be ready. Train your body. Sharpen your mind. Harden your spirit.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Dallas, TX

On June 10, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Dallas Texas Riots, texas, Texas Survival PrepperLeave a comment

When the world starts to unravel—whether it’s due to political unrest, civil disorder, or social chaos—urban areas like Dallas, Texas, can become pressure cookers just waiting to blow. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright apocalyptic. When the streets erupt into chaos, only one thing will separate the survivors from the victims: preparedness.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to stay alive, stay sharp, and stay ahead during a riot in Dallas. This is the real deal, not some fluff from a weekend warrior. We’re talking tactical movement, situational awareness, improvised weaponry, and streetwise self-defense techniques that’ll keep you in one piece.

Understanding the Terrain: Know Dallas Like a Combat Zone

Dallas is a sprawling urban environment with both advantages and threats. From Deep Ellum to Downtown, every area reacts differently during unrest. Know the high-risk areas (typically near government buildings, large public squares, and protest-prone districts). Use apps like Citizen or PulsePoint to track real-time activity. Avoid freeways if you need to bug out—they jam fast.

Pro Tip: Make mental notes of choke points, side alleys, parking garage exits, and underpasses. These could be your escape route—or your trap—depending on how well you prep.

8 Critical Self-Defense Skills You Must Master

1. Situational Awareness (SA)

Your #1 defense is your brain. Learn to scan crowds, read body language, and notice exit points. Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Make it a habit to observe and orient before acting—this is your first weapon.

2. De-escalation Tactics

Sometimes violence can be avoided by keeping your cool and using calm, confident body language and speech. Don’t posture. Don’t stare. Speak firmly but not aggressively. This can defuse tension faster than fists.

3. Knife Defense and Disarmament

Riots often attract opportunists. If someone pulls a blade, know how to deflect, control, and disarm using forearm blocks and redirection techniques. Practice with a dummy knife until you can move instinctively.

4. Improvised Weapon Use

You won’t always have a baton or blade—sometimes, a flashlight, a belt with a heavy buckle, or even a pen can be lethal in trained hands. Learn how to grip, swing, and use these tools for defense.

5. Escape from Holds

If you’re grabbed in a crowd, breaking a wrist grip using leverage (not strength) is key. Practice techniques like “thumb trap” breaks or the “roll and twist” escape for hair grabs and rear chokes.

6. Ground Defense

Getting knocked down in a riot can be fatal. Learn how to fall without injury, protect your head, and create space with kicks to regain footing fast.

7. Tactical Running (Movement Under Duress)

Running blindly can get you caught or injured. Practice zigzag sprints, staying low, and using cover. The goal is evasion, not just escape.

8. Verbal Command Presence

Sound like someone who knows what they’re doing—even if you’re scared. A loud, commanding voice can freeze aggressors and buy you seconds. Use it wisely.

3 DIY Survival Weapons You Can Build Fast

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Buy a 1-inch diameter PVC pipe, around 2 feet long. Fill it with sand or bolts, seal both ends with duct tape, and wrap the handle in paracord. Lightweight, intimidating, and brutally effective for self-defense or crowd deterrence.

2. Tactical Slingshot

All you need is surgical tubing, a Y-shaped branch, and a leather pouch. Load with marbles, bolts, or ball bearings. Silent, deadly, and legal in many jurisdictions. Keep one in your go-bag.

3. Makeshift Spear

Use a broomstick or curtain rod and duct-tape a sharpened kitchen knife or multi-tool blade to the end. It’s a last-resort weapon but gives you reach when you need to keep distance in tight spaces.

What to Do During a Riot in Dallas, TX

1. Stay Off the Radar

Blend in. Wear neutral clothing—no logos, no political messages, no flashy colors. Keep your head down and move with purpose. A grey hoodie and jeans go a long way.

2. Avoid Main Roads

Riots love open spaces. Stay away from intersections, parks, and public squares. Stick to alleys, secondary streets, and interior corridors of buildings you know well.

3. Use a Bug-Out Plan

Have a safe location to flee to outside the riot zone—a friend’s place in Plano or Richardson is gold. Pre-pack your go-bag: water, first aid, energy bars, burner phone, power bank, flashlight, and a compact weapon.

4. Don’t Be a Hero

You’re not there to play vigilante. Avoid confrontation unless absolutely necessary. Defend your life, not your pride.

5. Watch the Wind

If tear gas or smoke bombs are deployed, move upwind. Use a bandana soaked in vinegar or lemon juice to cover your nose and mouth. Better yet, pack a painter’s respirator if you’re prepping smart.

6. Get Off the Grid

Power can go down, cell towers can jam. Have offline maps downloaded. Use walkie-talkies or ham radios with emergency channels. Communication is survival.

Mental Resilience: Your Most Powerful Weapon

Riots test more than just muscle—they test the mind. You’ll face fear, uncertainty, and moral dilemmas. Keep your mission clear: Survive. Escape. Regroup. Repeat that mantra in your head. Remember, hesitation kills. Preparation doesn’t.

Here’s what most folks forget: adrenaline dumps leave you shaky, tired, and prone to bad decisions. Train your breathing. Inhale for four seconds, hold four, exhale four. This lowers heart rate and sharpens thinking in a crisis.

After the Riot: What Comes Next

The dust might settle, but the risks won’t. Looters may still be around. Cops may still be jumpy. And services might be down for hours or days. Stay alert for 24 hours post-event. Recheck your supplies. Debrief yourself on what went wrong or right. Upgrade your skills accordingly.

Final Word from a Seasoned Prepper

Dallas isn’t the Wild West—but during a riot, it might as well be. I’ve lived through hurricanes, blackouts, and even civil unrest overseas. Nothing changes the game like an urban riot. They’re fast, chaotic, and ruthless.

But if you prep smart, think sharper, and move with purpose, you’ll not only survive—you’ll come out ahead.

Don’t wait for sirens to start prepping. By then, it’s too damn late.

How To Stay Alive During a Los Angeles Riot

On June 10, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn California, California Preppers, Los Angeles riots, UncategorizedLeave a comment

When the streets of Los Angeles erupt in chaos—burning storefronts, sirens wailing, mobs overrunning city blocks—you don’t want to be figuring things out in the moment. As a seasoned survival prepper and self-defense trainer, I’ve learned that survival doesn’t depend on luck. It depends on preparation, situational awareness, and knowing how to respond when society takes a nosedive.

Riots, especially in a sprawling city like LA, are unpredictable and can spiral out of control within minutes. It doesn’t matter if you’re caught in Koreatown or driving near Melrose when the flash mobs hit—you need to know how to defend yourself, protect your loved ones, and get out alive.

This guide lays out 8 must-know self-defense skills, 3 DIY weapons you can make from household items, and the mindset you need to adopt when the city turns into a war zone.

Understand the Environment

First, get real about where you are. Los Angeles is a sprawling urban jungle with over 4 million people, and it has a history of civil unrest—from the 1992 Rodney King riots to the George Floyd protests in 2020. When a riot starts, it spreads fast. You need to know the chokepoints, escape routes, and danger zones in your neighborhood.

Download offline maps and mark exits out of your area. Freeways can get jammed—sometimes it’s better to travel on foot through alleys than be stuck in a car.

8 Must-Know Self-Defense Skills

These aren’t gimmicks. These are battle-tested techniques that can save your life:

1. Situational Awareness (SA)

Your first and strongest weapon. Always know your surroundings—who’s near you, where cover is, and where the exits are. Riots are fluid; mobs move. Don’t stand still and don’t look like an easy target.

Pro tip: Keep your head on a swivel—avoid tunnel vision.

2. Verbal De-escalation

Not every confrontation needs to go physical. Being able to read body language and talk someone down is underrated. Stay calm. Use strong, clear voice commands. Maintain distance and confidence without aggression.

3. Open-Hand Strikes

If you must defend yourself, open-hand strikes are safer for your hands than punches. Target the eyes, throat, and nose—areas that disable, not just hurt.

4. Knee Strikes

If someone gets too close, a knee to the midsection or groin can end the fight quickly. Practice good balance and aim.

5. Escape From Grabs

Learn basic escapes from wrist grabs, chokes, and bear hugs. Practice the principle of going “with the grab” to break free using leverage and momentum—not strength.

6. Improvised Weapon Use

A pen, belt, flashlight, or broken chair leg can become a powerful weapon if used right. Practice using household items as force multipliers.

7. Ground Defense

Fights may go to the ground. Learn how to shrimp, bridge, and get to your feet. Never stay flat on your back during a riot—mob mentality shows no mercy.

8. Team Movement Tactics

If you’re with family or a small group, you need to move like a unit. Establish hand signals. Appoint a point person. Never break formation unless you absolutely have to.

3 DIY Survival Weapons From Household Items

If you’re caught without a firearm, knife, or baton, don’t panic. The best survivalists know how to build tools with what’s available. Here are three effective DIY survival weapons you can create with common items in a pinch.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Materials: 18-24 inch PVC pipe (¾” diameter), duct tape, sand or nails for weight.

How To Make: Fill the pipe with sand or nails, cap both ends with duct tape, and wrap the handle with extra tape for grip. It’s lightweight, concealable, and can deliver bone-cracking force in close quarters.

2. Sling Weapon From Paracord and a Sock

Materials: Paracord, a rock or a padlock, thick sock.

How To Make: Place the heavy object inside the sock, tie the open end with paracord, and now you have a makeshift flail. Easy to conceal, fast to deploy, and devastating when used against limbs or to clear space.

3. Modified Tactical Flashlight

Materials: Heavy-duty flashlight, steel nuts, epoxy.

How To Make: Epoxy a couple of steel nuts around the head of your flashlight. You’ve now turned a common tool into a bludgeon that can break bones and glass alike.

What to Do When the Riot Starts

1. Get Off the X
If you see crowds forming or hear sirens nearby, move. Don’t film it. Don’t spectate. The X is the danger zone—get off it and don’t look back.

2. Secure Your Home
If you can’t evacuate, barricade entrances using furniture and tools. Booby-trap the approach with noise-makers (like aluminum cans on string). A dog, even a small one, can give you vital early warning.

3. Blend In
Wear neutral colors—gray, tan, brown. Avoid tactical clothing or bright colors. Don’t give anyone a reason to think you’re with the opposing side. Use calm, slow body language. Avoid eye contact.

4. Go Grey Man
Blend into the environment. Hide valuables, ditch flashy gear, and move low-profile. The grey man survives because no one notices him. That’s your goal.

5. Know When to Fight and When to Flee
A real survivalist doesn’t fight every battle. If escape is possible, take it. If confrontation is unavoidable, finish it fast and disappear.

Bonus Tips for Staying Alive

Have a go-bag with first aid, water, a multi-tool, N95 mask, flashlight, extra phone battery, gloves, and protein bars.
Memorize key phone numbers. Don’t rely solely on your cell service.
Use radios or encrypted apps like Signal if communication goes down.
Secure your documents and cash. Riots are a magnet for looting—if your home burns, your ID and emergency cash better not be in your sock drawer.

Train Before You Need It

None of this matters if you’re not training. Self-defense and survival are perishable skills. Practice them. Drill your family or group. Take classes in Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or urban survival tactics. When it hits the fan, you’ll either react with clarity—or panic and become part of the problem.

Final Words

Los Angeles is a beautiful, complex, and volatile city. If the next riot breaks out tomorrow, will you be ready? Or will you be scrambling for supplies, wondering how to defend your home with a frying pan and hope?

Get prepared. Stay trained. Think ahead. And never underestimate the power of calm, confident readiness.

Stay sharp out there.

How To Stay Safe and Survive During a Riot in Illinois (Mainly Chicago)

On June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 By The.Daily.ChristianIn Chicago Riots, Illinois, Illinois SurvivalistsLeave a comment

Let’s be clear — if you’re waiting until a riot breaks out in Illinois to figure out how to stay alive, you’re already behind. I’ve spent over a decade training in survival tactics, martial arts, tactical weapons, and real-world defense scenarios. Riots are chaotic, fast-moving, and unforgiving. Whether it’s Chicago, Springfield, or a rural town seeing unexpected unrest, your preparation and mindset will determine if you make it out in one piece. This guide is for those who take survival seriously.

Understand the Environment: Illinois in Crisis

Illinois has diverse terrain — from crowded urban centers to isolated farmland. Riots can erupt over political unrest, police action, economic crashes, or even sports events gone sideways. In cities like Chicago, the density means escape routes are limited. In more rural areas, law enforcement can be slow to respond. No matter where you are, the principles of riot survival remain the same: stay informed, stay mobile, stay armed (legally and effectively), and stay smart.

8 Critical Self-Defense Skills You Need to Master

You don’t need to be a black belt to survive, but you damn well need to know how to protect yourself when things go sideways. Here are the eight skills every survival-minded person should have locked down:

1. Situational Awareness

This isn’t just “keeping your head on a swivel.” It’s about reading a crowd, spotting tension, locating exits, and identifying threats before they become problems. Train your eyes and ears to work together.

2. Escape and Evasion Tactics

If a riot breaks out, your first goal should always be to get out of the area. Learn how to move through crowds, blend in, use alleys, avoid bottlenecks, and even climb fences or navigate rooftops if necessary.

3. Verbal De-escalation

Sometimes, you don’t need to fight. You need to calm someone down or talk your way out of a bad spot. Practice using a calm, assertive voice and body language that shows you’re not prey, but also not a threat.

4. Krav Maga Basics

Krav Maga was built for real-world violence. Learn basic strikes (palm heel, elbow, knee), how to disarm an attacker, and how to neutralize threats quickly.

5. Improvised Weapon Use

In a riot, your fancy self-defense weapon might be confiscated. A belt buckle, pen, tactical flashlight, or even your keys can be used to protect yourself. Practice turning everyday objects into tools of survival.

6. Knife Defense and Offense

Know how to use and defend against a blade. Learn grip techniques, slashing and stabbing targets, and how to block or deflect a knife attack. Blades are common in street fights — train accordingly.

7. Ground Fighting

You might get taken to the ground. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) or basic wrestling moves can save your life when you’re pinned or overwhelmed. Learn to break guard, choke escapes, and how to use leverage.

8. Firearm Handling Under Stress (Legally)

If you’re in Illinois and legally carry, you must train with your firearm under simulated stress. Shooting paper at the range is not the same as drawing your weapon while under attack. Learn trigger discipline, aiming under pressure, and when to shoot — or when not to.

3 DIY Survival Weapons You Can Build at Home

These weapons are for last-resort defense. They’re legal to possess in most places if built properly and used only in self-defense. But check Illinois laws before creating or carrying any of these.

1. PVC Pipe Baton

Materials: 1.5″ PVC pipe, steel rods or sand, duct tape
How to Build: Fill the PVC with steel rods or sand for weight, cap both ends, and wrap in duct tape for grip. It’s light, concealable, and hits hard — perfect for keeping attackers at bay.

2. Tactical Sling Weapon

Materials: Paracord, nuts or ball bearings, sturdy pouch
How to Build: Create a basic sling with a paracord pouch that holds heavy ball bearings. With practice, this becomes a silent, ranged weapon. Aim for knees, elbows, or the face to incapacitate.

3. Nail and Board Trap (Home Defense)

Materials: Wooden board, 3” nails, hammer
How to Build: Drive nails through the board, spacing them out about 1” apart. Hide it under a welcome mat or near entry points to slow down intruders. Simple deterrent when you’re stuck in place.

Urban Survival Tactics: Illinois-Specific Tips

Here’s where things get tactical. Riots aren’t just about physical fights — it’s psychological, logistical, and geographical.

1. Know Your Urban Escape Routes

In downtown Chicago, avoid major arteries during civil unrest. Stick to side streets, alleyways, and pedestrian bridges. Learn which parking garages connect via underground tunnels. In Springfield or Peoria, use railways or canal paths as quick exits.

2. Blend In or Go Ghost

Wearing tactical gear may make you a target. Dress like the locals, move with the crowd, and don’t draw attention. If needed, stash a change of clothes in a bug-out bag. Ditch bright colors, logos, or military patterns.

3. Build a Bug-Out Bag for Riot Scenarios

Include:

Gas mask or N95 respirator (tear gas/pepper spray)
Compact crowbar or Halligan tool (for barriers)
Energy bars, water, lighter, gloves, and first aid
Burner phone (no tracking)
Compact trauma kit: tourniquet, gauze, hemostatic agent

When to Stand Your Ground — And When to Run

Let’s not play Hollywood hero. If you can leave, do it. If you’re trapped and cornered, you defend your life with everything you’ve got. Remember this rule: Don’t die on the sidewalk over someone else’s cause. Live to fight another day, preferably somewhere safe.

If you’re protecting your family or property and cannot flee:

Fortify entrances with furniture, cords, and makeshift barriers
Cut power and silence electronics to avoid detection
Arm yourself with legally allowed weapons and know how to use them effectively
Keep lights off, stay silent, and use shadows to your advantage

Psychological Warfare: Controlling Your Fear

Fear is natural — but panic is fatal. Train your body through stress drills. Run with a weighted bag. Do pushups after holding your breath. Learn to control adrenaline. If your heart’s pounding and hands are shaking, your survival chances drop fast.

Practice staying calm by rehearsing “what if” scenarios. The more your brain runs simulations, the less it freaks out under pressure. Mindset isn’t fluff — it’s your most powerful weapon.

Final Thoughts from a Prepared Mind

Surviving a riot in Illinois isn’t about being paranoid — it’s about being prepared. You don’t get a second chance when chaos comes to your door. Know the law, train your body, sharpen your mind, and keep your gear ready.

You can’t stop a riot. But you can survive one. And for those of us who live by the code of self-reliance, that’s what matters most.