When "systems" fall, what's your Plan B? Now is the time to prepare!

Preparing for Possible Civil Unrest Following the 2024 Election: A Guide for Families

As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, the tension in the air is unmistakable. Many remember the chaos that followed the 2020 election when the results sparked the January 6 Capitol riot, a day that shocked the nation. With Former President Donald Trump running for office again, the possibility of civil unrest—regardless of the outcome—is real. Whether Trump wins or loses, there are concerns that supporters and opposers may take to the streets, possibly leading to violent confrontations.

Cynthia Jordan

10/18/20244 min read

Voting Day
Voting Day

As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, the tension in the air is unmistakable. Many remember the chaos that followed the 2020 election when the results sparked the January 6 Capitol riot, a day that shocked the nation. With Former President Donald Trump running for office again, the possibility of civil unrest—regardless of the outcome—is real. Whether Trump wins or loses, there are concerns that supporters and opposers may take to the streets, possibly leading to violent confrontations.

The situation calls for vigilance and preparation, as civil unrest can disrupt daily life in ways we can’t fully predict. For families, being prepared is not just about safety; it's about survival until order is restored. In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential for unrest, what it could look like, and how to prepare your household with essential provisions to weather any storm that may follow the election.

The Potential for Civil Unrest

The 2020 election stands as a stark reminder of how fragile the nation's political climate can be. When Joe Biden was declared the winner, many of Donald Trump’s supporters, fueled by claims of a "stolen election," stormed the U.S. Capitol in an unprecedented act of insurrection. The January 6 riot highlighted how quickly things can escalate when people feel their political voices are not heard.

Now, with Trump back in the race for 2024, the stakes feel just as high. If Trump wins, it's possible that opponents will react with large-scale protests, similar to the ones seen following the police-involved deaths in 2020. On the other hand, if Trump loses, his core supporters—many of whom remain loyal and distrustful of the election system—might react violently, especially if there are similar allegations of fraud. This unrest could sweep across urban and rural areas alike, causing widespread disruption.

The Urgency of Preparing Now

While it’s impossible to predict the exact outcome of the 2024 election or the unrest that may follow, preparing your family for such an event is a proactive step you can take today. Civil unrest can paralyze cities and towns for days or even weeks, making basic resources like food, water, and medical supplies scarce. A state of emergency may be declared, and if streets become unsafe or stores close down, being able to sustain your family at home will be crucial.

Prepping isn’t just for survivalists or those expecting a doomsday scenario—it's a practical measure for any family facing uncertainty. Whether it’s election unrest, natural disasters, or unexpected economic collapse, having provisions in place can offer peace of mind during a chaotic time.

Essential Provisions for Civil Unrest

Preparing for civil unrest means thinking beyond the typical week’s worth of groceries or supplies. You’ll want to ensure your household can sustain itself for a few weeks, potentially longer, without needing to leave home. Below are key provisions and considerations to help you get started:

1. Food and Water Supply

  • Non-perishable food: Stock up on canned goods, dried beans, rice, pasta, and freeze-dried meals. Choose foods with long shelf lives and easy preparation. Don’t forget comfort foods—chocolate, coffee, and snacks can provide a morale boost.

  • Water storage: Have at least one gallon of water per person per day, for both drinking and sanitation. Aim for a minimum of two weeks’ worth and consider investing in a water filtration system in case local water supplies become contaminated.

  • Cooking supplies: If power or gas is interrupted, a portable camping stove or an outdoor grill will be essential. Be sure to have enough fuel on hand.

2. Medical and First Aid Supplies

  • A comprehensive first aid kit is crucial in case anyone gets injured and medical services are delayed or overwhelmed.

  • Stock up on prescription medications, as pharmacies may close, or supply chains may be disrupted.

  • Over-the-counter meds like pain relievers, allergy medicine, and anti-diarrheal treatments are important, as well as basic first aid items like bandages, antiseptics, and gauze.

3. Personal and Home Security

  • During times of civil unrest, looting and home invasions are not uncommon. Invest in securing your home with deadbolts, security cameras, and reinforced doors.

  • Consider non-lethal self-defense tools, such as pepper spray, tasers, or even a sturdy baseball bat, to protect your family if tensions escalate.

  • Have an evacuation plan in place. If staying home becomes unsafe, you’ll need to know the safest routes out of your area and have a go-bag packed with essentials.

4. Communication Tools

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radios are invaluable for keeping up with news if phone and internet services go down.

  • Ensure all family members have charged cell phones and access to walkie-talkies in case of a communication breakdown.

  • Emergency contact list: Write down important phone numbers and addresses, as you may not be able to rely on digital records.

5. Cash on Hand

  • If civil unrest disrupts financial systems or electricity, ATMs and card payments may be inaccessible. Keep cash in small denominations at home to buy necessities if stores only accept cash.

6. Sanitation Supplies

  • Stock up on toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, diapers if needed, and cleaning supplies. Trash collection may be delayed, so sturdy garbage bags and a plan to deal with waste is important.

  • If water service is interrupted, wet wipes and hand sanitizer can help maintain hygiene.

7. Mental and Emotional Preparedness

  • Civil unrest can take a toll on mental health. Make sure your family has access to comforting activities—whether it’s books, board games, or puzzles to pass the time.

  • Keep the lines of communication open with children or family members who might be feeling anxious. Explain what’s happening in a way they can understand and reassure them that you’re prepared.

Staying Safe and Calm During Unrest

If unrest breaks out, staying inside and away from potential danger zones is your safest bet. Keep in mind that civil unrest often happens quickly, and it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. Stay informed through reliable news sources, but don’t overexpose yourself to panic-inducing media. If protests or riots are happening nearby, avoid those areas, and monitor local safety alerts.

If things escalate and law enforcement can no longer guarantee safety in your neighborhood, consider evacuating to a safer location, especially if you live in a major city where unrest is more likely to erupt.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 election is shaping up to be another pivotal moment in American history, and with it comes the potential for unrest, no matter the outcome. By preparing now, you can protect your family and ensure that you have the provisions and safety measures in place to weather any storm. While we hope for peace, it’s always better to be prepared for the worst.

Stay vigilant, stay safe, and remember that being proactive today can make all the difference tomorrow.