Navigation & Evacuation Planning
Former Firefighter & Survival Enthusias
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The Evacuation Plan
• Three Routes: Plan at least three different routes out of the city (e.g., major highway, secondary roads, foot path). Assume the primary route will be blocked.
• Avoid Chokepoints: Never travel toward a known chokepoint (bridges, major tunnels, main highway on-ramps) during an evacuation.
• Bug Out Location (BOL): Have a predetermined, secure, non-urban destination you can reach.
Off-Grid Navigation
Master Analog Tools: Practice using a map and compass. Carry a detailed local area street map (laminated for protection).
Pacing and Landmarks: Learn to estimate distance by counting steps (pacing). Use large, fixed structures (towers, mountains) as confirmation landmarks.
Solar Navigation: Know how to find the cardinal directions using the sun's position or the shadow tip method.
Communication and Rendezvous Points (RVs)
• Rendezvous Points (RVs): Establish tiered meeting spots for separated family members:
• RV 1 (Local): Near home.
• RV 2 (Intermediate): Outside the immediate neighborhood.
• RV 3 (Distant): The final Bug Out Location.
• Out-of-State Contact: Designate one outof-state family member as the communication hub. Use this single person to relay status updates if local lines are jammed.
