Martial law is a measure of last resort. When declared, you can be certain that the world as you knew it has changed irrevocably. Governments are not disposed toward declaring martial law due to its cost and potential for creating panic and lawlessness, and because it’s an unpopular move, governments like being popular.
Martial law also means that the authorities have realized that the level of catastrophe or threat is beyond the ability of normal law enforcement to handle.
Simply stated, sh*t has hit the fan, and local cops and other first responders are overwhelmed and unable to handle whatever is happening. Danger abounds, and the best you can do is stay under the radar and go unnoticed.
In this article, we will explore the actions you need to take against the backdrop of a timeline, providing practical tips on what you need to do immediately, within the first hour, day, or week, and also looking at martial law in the long run.
The First Hour: Immediate Response
Secure Critical Assets
The initial stages of martial law promise to be chaotic. The army has been deployed and is still figuring out exactly what to do. As a seasoned prepper, you will be ready for this. But the first hour after a declaration of martial law is a time to take drastic and effective action. Make sure your supplies are well secured. Take the time to hide crucial assets like firearms, ammunition and other high-value items.
While hiding assets, remove any evidence of habitation or other possessions that may lead authorities or looters to your location.
Cars should not be parked in the driveway, and windows and doors should be locked.
Nothing in your vicinity should draw unwanted attention.
When martial law is declared, having the ability to protect yourself and your home becomes more critical than ever. In moments like these, when the usual systems of law and order collapse, it’s crucial to be prepared for anything—from looters and opportunists to worse.
That’s why I personally turned to the Special Forces Home Defense Academy for practical, battlefield-tested strategies. The simple yet effective techniques I learned, like setting up makeshift looter traps and securing vulnerable entry points, gave me the peace of mind that I could protect my family if things got out of hand. It’s not just about having supplies—it’s about knowing how to keep them safe, no matter what comes your way.
Go Dark on Digital Footprint
We already live in a surveillance state. Even if it’s not the state surveilling you, it’s Zuckerberg, Msuk, or any tech companies selling your attention. You need to stop creating a digital footprint.
These people are reading your direct messages, so don’t invite your buddy to come over because you have more meat and beer you know what to do with. You need to disconnect from networks or devices that can eavesdrop or reveal your location.
Also, wipe data that may indicate the amount of supplies you have. If you keep track of your stockpiles digitally, ensure the devices are not networked and remain well hidden.
You need to switch to analogue or other non-digital methods of communication.
The First Day: Adjusting to the New Reality
Concealment of Supplies and Weapons
Depending on the type of threat, you could find yourself in a situation where authorities are conducting door-to-door searches under the guise of a threat assessment or some other fabricated reason to gain access.
Remember, soldiers are also people, and could be criminally inclined.
You do not want strangers or the military to know first-hand what you have stockpiled. If you neglected to address this during the normal course of prepping, now is the time to create multiple storage locations and move supplies into hiding, secret compartments, etc.
But don’t hide your stockpile in your basement. It might sound like a good idea, but here’s why you should actually never do that.
Establish Early Warning Systems
You need to secure your perimeter and set up an early warning system. The last thing you want is soldiers running around your house or property without warning.
Knowing what is on its way helps you decide the appropriate action response. This will also warn you against possible looters or scavengers who could threaten your safety or jeopardize your stockpiles. Motion sensors, tripwires, and even dogs will help you avoid being caught unawares.
The First Week: Adapting to New Rules
Stay Under the Radar
After the initial chaos, the military wants to maintain law and order, and curfews and other rationing (fuel, electricity, water, etc.) will help them maintain control. If you paint yourself as a target by being uncooperative or disregarding new rules and regulations, you may come to rue the fact that you drew attention to yourself.
Predators and prey alike are more successful when they don’t stand out and maintain a low profile. Avoid scrutiny by complying and not displaying signs of wealth or abundance of resources.
Engage in Information Gathering
Having knowledge that others don’t have gives you an edge. The advantage can be used to your benefit.
You need to ensure that your information-gathering techniques are discreet.
When moving about, keep your eyes and ears wide open.
Related: This Is What Your Neighbor Might Already Know About You
People also love to talk, so listen, but be careful when asking questions so you don’t seem nosy. Drones, security cameras, or just old-school eavesdropping can help you know what is happening around you.
The information could prove invaluable, helping you to decide when and where to move, which areas to avoid when you should stick around, go to the ground, or run for your life.
Long-Term Living: Thriving Under Martial Law
Barter
Under martial law, especially if it’s long term, cash may become useless. You need to know how to barter, and you need to ensure that you have some items with which to barter.
Be very careful when bartering that people do not know, for instance, that you have 200 chickens, and that’s why you want to exchange ten for a bag of grain. You just may find that those friendly folks who changed your chickens for grain come to fetch the rest of your flock in the dead of night, armed to the teeth.
Folks will almost always place a high value on addictive items like cigarettes and coffee and items like alcohol, medical supplies, and sweets.
Have some ready to exchange, but always remember that people must not know the extent of your possessions.
Adapt to a New Economy
Under prolonged martial law, the economy as we know it will change, and practical skills will increase in value.
Equip yourself with the skills needed for self-sufficiency, but be ready to exchange repair work for a hot meal or a bag of potatoes.
Skills that can feed your family and keep your environment running and maintained will help you adapt to the economic realities of martial law.
Despite a well-stocked pantry, your ultimate resilience lies in getting really good at being self-sufficient, particularly in food production.
For those who are serious about surviving whatever comes their way, I strongly recommend this comprehensive guide. It offers invaluable insights and practical advice for transforming your backyard into a self-sustaining homestead.
I’ve been using it to help me on my property, and it’s already made a huge difference in how I manage my resources and plan for long-term sustainability. With step-by-step instructions, it’s designed for beginners and experienced preppers alike.
Remember, while stockpiling food serves as a temporary fix, learning how to grow your own food ensures you can keep going for the long haul.
Maintain a ‘Normal’ Routine—Even if It’s Ridiculous
Monotony is dangerous as it erodes self-worth and creates stress that can become overwhelming. Maintaining a normal routine will help overcome this.
Get up early and do stuff. Not only do you sleep better when you are tired, but confronting your situation and being proactive will help keep your mind at ease and your soul positive.
Outmaneuver Psychological Warfare
Martial law is not just about physical control but also about controlling your mind. We are all aware of various psyops and see daily how smart people believe all kinds of rubbish the media spreads.
Question everything. Don’t take anything at face value. Treat all information as suspicious or unverified until you are sure. Remember that governments have departments working to spread misinformation. Be ready to trust no one but God and yourself. And maybe not even yourself. Street smarts will be one of your most valuable assets.
Certain states are likely to be among the first to face the harsh realities of martial law, given their historical patterns of unrest and governmental control. If you find yourself living in one of these red zones, your preparation strategy should be even more discreet and meticulously planned.
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