As of 2018, over half of the world's population lived in or near large urban centers. For myself and others, urban survival is a necessity and not so much an option. Depending on the scenario, survival in the city and suburbs is very possible and in some situations, it's the best choice.

This is not to say that wilderness survival skills should not be cultivated, however, the reasonable course of action is survival in your area of operations, your home turf. Knowledge of your surroundings, evacuation routes and human network determines success in a SHTF event.

Honing your urban survival skill sets can be done on a daily basis. This fact alone gives an advantage over wilderness training since that must be completed in a semi-remote environment. On your next commute to work, take the path less traveled off the main roads. Take note of resources such as lumber, retention ponds, empty buildings and other assets. Over time you will compile a list of sites, each one specific to a need or requirement.

This list will grow and become a vital component in a well-rounded survival strategy. The well-prepared individual can utilize this data to make informed decisions such as whether to shelter in place or flee in the area. Knowledge is power and priceless in a survival situation.

Imagine the most common SHTF scenario - natural disaster. Instead of fighting traffic jams and road rage on the evac route, the survivalist uses an old double track dirt road to parallel the main highway and escape the metro radius.

Urban Survival Tips & Strategies