ZOMBIE SURVIVAL Part III: Zombie Behavior

Let’s be honest.  We’ve never had a full blown ZA and we’re not likely to get a trial run.  Our intel on Zombie behavior is then “best guess.”  So let’s keep it to a few fundamental behaviors when assessing our foe.  As we engage them and learn more about their behavior through actual FIELD OPS we’ll expand upon this foundation.

Since most Zombie lore suggests they’re active only to seek food, we’ll consider this as their base motivation.  It is interesting to note that this base need is similar to our own (ala Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs).  First, let’s divide food seeking behavior into the style with which it is sought.  Do the Zombies appear to hunt or scavenge?  If Zombies hunt, they’re going to be more proactive.  They may stalk, set rudimentary traps, set kill zones, and ambush prey.  Scavengers are less proactive.  They’re not likely to chase you at first, because a scavenger prefers an easy meal.  But, they might chase you if you’re already week or hurt, or if they stumble upon you.

Second, do the Zombies appear to act with a pack mentality or are they acting as individuals without care for the others around them.  Packs are dangerous.  Even a semi-organized pack working in unison becomes a much larger threat than twice as many individuals.  And before you start whining and go all, “but Zombies are dead so their brains don’t work,” on me, consider the ant.  Not much of a brain there either but they sure do work and coordinate well as a group.  Assume the primitive (read survival) part of the brain is still functioning in Zombies.  Assuming a hive type of mentality in this scenario, looking for the Alpha Zombie may disrupt the pack.  If Zombies behave as mindless individuals, then we’re a bit safer.  Just don’t go pulling a large group into your field of fire if you can’t put them all down fast enough.

Third, let’s consider locomotion.  Do Zombies run, walk, or shamble?  Forget crawl you can step over them.  I’m hoping for shambling Zombies.  It seems to me all things considered, a slow awkwardly moving Zombie is as good as head cheese regardless of some of the other behaviors we’re considering.  So as long as we’re not grossly overweight and shambling ourselves (Zombieland Rule #1? CARDIO!), we should be pretty well ahead of the game.

Finally, how do the Zombies orient themselves to their surroundings?  More importantly how are they going to find us?  Do they use sight?  What about noise?  Can they smell?  Whichever they use or don’t use can be used to our advantage.  For example, if Zombies rely solely on sight we’re in a much better place than the Zombie using sight, smell and hearing to find food.  The former can be easily avoided.  The latter more easily makes a happy meal out of you.

Let’s recap: hunter vs. scavenger, pack vs. loner, runner vs. walker, vs. shambler, and senses used for tracking.  Do yourself a favor and start considering the combinations possible from what has been discussed.  Consider how to avoid, evade, and engage each threat.  If you can, practice each scenario.  Mental preparation is the first step.  Practical application is the nail in the Zombies coffin…so to speak.

Until next time.

Random Thoughts: "Gun Control"

I keep seeing that Pres. Obama is going to work with both sides of the gun control/ownership issue.  But I'm not sure where he stands. Or what ideas he is bringing to the table.

Gun control is an interesting topic and most folks seem to polarize when it comes to taking a position. My personal view is that any law abiding citizen who wants to own a gun should be allowed to own a gun. Further, I believe any of the latter, who are willing to train and prove a moderate level of competence, common sense and good judgement should be allowed to carry a concealed weapon. The second and third criteria seem to be in shorter supply these days but that's a topic for another day. My argument isn't based on any constitutional argument or God given right. It's based upon the idea that I should be responsible for defending myself, my family and my community, with deadly force if needed. I'm happy to give our public safety personnel, a group I greatly respect, the lead. And when it comes to conflict, I'll trust Grand Master Sun Tsu. He believed that if one could win by avoiding conflict one should. But that is not always possible and our public safety personnel may not be available to protect us at any given time.

So what does this have to do with gun control? It's a series of simple questions really. To whom do gun control laws apply? Who is going to abide by these laws? How do these laws protect us? My answers are: "all of us," "law abiding citizens," and "they don't," respectively. It's the answer to the second and third question that disturbs me. Law abiding citizens are going to follow these laws. But what of the people who don't? In my experience people who want guns are going to get them. Peace officers and citizens are assaulted almost daily, if not daily, by people with firearms. In California automatic weapons or weapons deemed to be of the "assault" variety are outlawed. But it hasn't stopped the criminals from obtaining them. And it is my honest belief that no law will ever accomplish keeping firearms from those elements. The outcome then is dangerous folks being armed while the rest of us are left to hope we are never confronted with the business end of a firearm. That just doesn't sit right with me.

Am I saying that everyone should be armed? No, absolutely not. It's a very personal choice. And anyone who asks me about it get's this question in return, "Are you willing to take another person's life to protect your own or that of someone you love?" If the answer is, "No," then don't arm yourself. However, if you're like me and the answer is, "Yes," then arm yourself and train, train, train.

All I want is the choice. The freedom of choice to do what I think is best for me and mine.

Dor

ZOMBIE SURVIVAL Part II: Where In Dodge Do I (We) Shelter?

It depends on where you started and the reasons behind the ZA.  Two things are for sure.  You’re on your own and you’re no longer at the top of the food chain.  Shelter where you can.  Practice noise and light discipline in case the Zombies are attracted to them. 

The choice you face first is shelter in a city/town versus rural area.  Each has benefits and dangers.  Best to consider it all and then make a choice.

Sheltering in a more densely populated area offers an opportunity to stay well supplied, have multiple safe zones prepared while moving about, and an opportunity to connect with other survivors (of course they might not be friendly).  What’s the down side?  There are more corpses to reanimate and come looking for you.  Areas with a sparse population basically have just the opposite issues.  High ground is your friend too.  High ground is more easily defended and provides a view of your surroundings.

Where ever you shelter be sure to familiarize yourself with the setting.  Safely hide and store your supplies.  If you’re scavenging supplies it’s likely others are too.  You may not take from other survivors but they may not have a problem taking from you.  Have at least a couple of exit strategies in case one is blocked during a bug-out.  A bank vault might seem like a safe place to ride out the ZA but if they get in, you’re just a meat piñata.  If you’re alone getting sleep is going to be difficult.  I don’t know if Zombies are good at stealthy approaches and I’m not willing to find out.  You’re going to have to find a place where you can safely sleep. For this I’d go with examples like those found in the films “Omega Man” and “I Am Legend.”  Defensible buildings that can serve as a base of operation, with multiple exits that are protected from intrusion but could be used as an escape.  A group could follow the same logic, but the group offers a greater opportunity to escape to where there are fewer Zombies.  Sleep and work can be shared and security assured against most surprises.  Of course all of the aforementioned depends on how our foe, Mr. or Ms. Zombie “behaves.”

Stay tuned for a brief treatise on Zombie behavior.

ZOMBIE SURVIVAL: Part I, Intro and Self Defense

It’s been a burning question you’ve had for a long time.  Well here are your answers!  If you’re reading this and thinking to yourself, “He’s a crackpot,” you’re right; but only partly.

Sometimes in humor we find truth.  And that truth can be scary.  Take a look at Cracked.com’s article on “5 Scientific Reasons a Zombie Apocalypse Could Actually Happen” (http://bit.ly/hFHroF).  See what I mean?  And in case you’ve also read “7 Scientific Reasons a Zombie Outbreak Would Fail (Quickly)” (http://bit.ly/er6HXq), check the publication dates.  Right, it occurred three years after the article warning us.  It seems too convenient.  I don’t want to spread rumors but I’ll hazard a guess that the first article upset too many people and the government demanded an article arguing the opposite; that it couldn’t happen.  Oh sure there are reasonable arguments in the article, but they can all be counter argued well enough to cause you to soil yourself.  So let us prepare!

For general preparedness read my last post, “Emergency Preparedness.”  It’s definitely where you should start.  But it is only a start because depending on the type of Zombie Apocalypse (ZA) we face, you’ll need to consider additional issues.  There are a number of treatises on this topic (e.g., The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks available at Amazon.com) but I’ve not read them.  Suffice it to say, I’m paranoid and crazy enough to come up with some better ideas (Yes, I’m modest too).

Self Defense

OK, first thing.  Recall my discussion from the “Emergency Preparedness” post on self defense?  Well, it’s no longer a choice.  Arm yourself.  NOW!

Firearms and Bows:  Everyone else in your neighborhood knows where the gun store is, and the proprietor, who has the keys and got there before you, can probably shoot a nice grouping in the “10 ring.”  So if you wait for the ZA you’re either a happy meal for a Zombie or target practice for someone who cared enough to be ready.  Shotguns, rifles, pistols, and crossbows are all decent for Zombie killing.  Shotguns are your friend.  Choose either slugs or buckshot (Don’t mess with birdshot, it’ll just piss the Zombie off.).  Your choice between the two is easy if you don’t have much range time.  Go for the buckshot.  Why?  Because you’ll have a better chance at getting some pellets on the target and if it’s a crowd, you’ll hit even more.  Now one shot isn’t going to do it, so keep shooting until they either stop or you’ve bought enough time to run.  The crossbow makes for a nice, quiet Zombie eliminator.  And quiet might be your friend.  Also a plus is that its ammo (called bolts) is reusable if you can safely retrieve the bolts.

Melee weapons:  There’s nothing wrong with staring death squarely in the eyes and beating, pummeling, slicing, chopping or hacking it to death...again.  But let’s consider something.  What sort of pathogen started this whole thing?  It’s probably not airborne otherwise we’d all be dead.  So if it’s not airborne it must be passed from individual to individual by touch and/or through bodily fluids (and yes, through Zombie feces, if they have any, but who is going to go all coprophilic in Zombie poop?  Two girls with a cup maybe, but I digress.  On a similar note necrophiliacs that bareback have died off quickly.).  Anyways, getting up close and personal with Mr. or Ms. Zombie and engaging them with a melee weapon is going to get messy very fast.  If you don’t believe me go beat a melon with a bat.  Get any on you?  Right.  Now you’re infected and about to become a part of the horde.  And it shouldn’t surprise you much that everyone is backing away from you…you know what’s coming next.  I do suggest having melee weapons but their use must be a last resort.  If you find yourself going mano a mano with a Zombie be sure to cover up as much as possible.   Keep Zombie goo out of your eyes, mouth, nose and open wounds.  Strip and wash immediately after and burn the clothes.  Ah!  Didn’t think of that last part did you?  Hope you packed some extra clothes!

Regardless of your weapon choice, keep this in mind: survival is your goal.  We’re not playing a video game and getting huge scores for headshots.  Yes, it may be the only way to kill a Zombie but if time is of the essence, then incapacitate and get the heck out of Dodge.  I don’t care how dead and reanimated something is.  If its legs are nearly blown off it’s going to be moving slower!

Stay tuned to learn about where in Dodge you can shack up!

Emergency Preparedness

My best wishes go out to all who have suffered as a result of the earthquake and resulting tsunami this past week. I've seen a number of posts, blogs, etc. on preparedness and I feel I want to provide one as well. You don't have to have everything I'll recommend, but you should give it all a reasonable amount of thought. My favorite saying, "Failure to prepare is preparation for failure," fits well for this topic.

There are some excellent resources out there you can consult to build your kit(s) like FEMA and the Red Cross. Use them as a starting point and tailor it to your specific needs. My experience with this topic comes from training I've received in law enforcement, being a part of a crisis negotiations team and being a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) member.

First, make sure you have what is commonly referred to as a bug-out bag. This is anything that can carry your equipment and can be grabbed quickly if you need to evacuate. I like using a back pack that contains a bladder for water in case I find myself hiking. I used this when I worked in LA and needed to plan for the 50 mi hike back home. I kept this bag in my car. I also use a larger back pack for my home. I pack as though I need to evacuate (as opposed to sheltering in place) and here's what I keep handy:

• Food and water. I prefer MRE's w/ chemical heaters. There are many businesses that offer an excellent selection of products (e.g., www.longlifefoods.com). But canned goods, packaged food, dehydrated foods can be just as good. Water will be your most valuable commodity. You can't survive more than 3 days without it and you use it for cooking, cleaning, first aid, etc. I recommend 7 days worth food and water. Figure at least a half gallon per day, per person just for drinking. Add more for cooking and other uses.

• Clothing. Three days worth should be adequate for most situations. Always consider having extra undergarments in case you get wet. Socks are also important.  Have plenty so you can keep your feet dry and clean. Also, think layers. It’s the easiest way to regulate your comfort. Consider your year-round climate. Surviving in southern California is different than upstate NY in the winter. This includes footwear. Keep it utilitarian and comfortable in case you have to walk or hike.

• Sanitation supplies. Toilet paper, soap, cleansing wipes, heavy garbage bags, tampons/panty liners (also good for first aid), sunscreen, rags or towels, and waterless hand sanitizer.
  
  
• Extra medication/prescriptions/eyeglasses/contacts. You'd probably be ok without for a couple of days if you don’t have a serious medical condition or have extremely poor sight but we need only look at large scale disasters to know we might have fend for ourselves for a longer period of time.
  
  
• Heat and light sources. Stay alive and NEVER use heaters that burn fuel, consume oxygen, or produce carbon monoxide indoors (without adequate ventilation). Many people die from CO poisoning each year because of this. That said, do what makes sense in your environment. Get waterproof matches, magnesium fire starters, refillable lighters and batteries. Use camping lights (battery or propane). These can be found in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. Flashlights are a good option but they only provide directional light and aren't good for lighting an area. An easy source of tinder is the lint trap in your dryer.  Fill a big baggy with the stuff!
  
  
• Basic kitchen supplies. You may even want to get camping style supplies. Many of these are light and collapsible (e.g., MSR products). If you use MRE's some of this will not be needed. Forks, spoons, knives, cups, aluminum foil, small pot/pan/fry, and a manual can opener are all good to have.

• First aid kit. There are many commercially available but I prefer to make my own. I put mine in a medium sized, plastic tool box for easy access and carrying. In addition to the standard fair, consider some OTC medications for stomach upset, diarrhea, asthma, allergies (benedryl is good here and can also be used as a sleep aid), and skin rashes. I also include large wound kits, an anticoagulant compound for stanching sever wounds like gun shots, a scalpel, forceps, rubber tubing, a camp knife and an advanced first aid manual.
  
  
• Self-defense. This is a personal choice and my recommendation is that you do not have a weapon if 1) you’re not willing to kill to protect yourself (waving a gun or knife around is not much of a deterrent if someone is going to hurt you); and, 2) you don’t know how to deploy the weapon in a way that can ensure your safety. All too often weapons are taken from their owners and used against them. Also, avoiding a fight that is avoidable is always in your best interest. If you’re in your home my first choice is a shotgun with a short barrel and ghost ring sights. I suggest 12ga but the .410 is becoming popular. I prefer pump action because just the sound of a round being chambered can be a “come to Jesus” moment for anyone wishing you harm. Shotguns will also stop most intruders in a shot or two. Buckshot is your friend. If you prefer a handgun, be reasonable. Use what you’re comfortable with and choose self defense rounds. How many rounds to stock is up to you and how good a shot you are. I’d recommend a wheel gun (“six-shooter”) over semi-auto if you don’t plan on maintaining it regularly. Yes the semi auto carries more rounds, but if it jams because it’s dirty it’s just a paperweight. Remember using a firearm in real-life is not like the movies. People don't fly backwards, immediately fall down after being shot, or explode in a bloody mess. Keep shooting until the attacker stops being aggressive toward you. I’ve never trained with knives so I’m not giving any advice on them. Suffice it to say that I’d rather not get that personal with an attacker.
  
  
• Entertainment. Yes, we may need a fun diversion. A deck of cards, paper and pencil for drawing (other “survival” uses too), anything small and easily carried to pass the time.
  
  
• Shelter and sleeping. Tents are your best bet, but unless you back pack regularly yours is probably too heavy to carry. Large garbage bags, corrugated cardboard, fallen trees or limbs can be easily used to make lean-to’s and temporary shelter. Invest in some nylon parachute cord and you can turn almost anything into a shelter. A rain poncho and some cord is all you need to make a decent lean-to. Sleeping bags area great to have too. If you were going to buy something I’d recommend getting one for each person. Buy something that meets your environmental needs, that is light weight, has some water protection and can be opened fully (not the mummy style). This type of bag will give you the most flexibility.
  
  
• Communications. Your cell phone probably won’t be able to make calls but, if you use Twitter or Facebook you may be able to get a few messages out to let your people know you are OK. There are some solar devices you can buy to keep electronics juiced, but they can be expensive. Again it’s up to you. Get a battery powered (or hand crank) radio. Information will be disseminated and you’ll want to know what is being done, what to expect and where to go if there are places to go. I like to newer generation of walkie talkies. These can be great for a family especially if you get separated for any reason.
  
  
• Cash and ID’s. Take what you have. But remember, ATMS, Banks and the like will not be available if there’s no electricity. For this reason keep some real money handy. There’s no guidance for how much to have so use your best judgment. And for goodness sake, don’t advertise that you have a wad of cash in your pocket!
  
  
• Plan, Plan, Plan and Practice, Practice, Practice. Make an emergency plan to follow and build in contingencies. Share the plan with family that does not live nearby so they have an idea what you will likely do in a disaster event. Set up a communications plan so that separated family can have a hub from which to get information about you. For example, I use a family member in NY as my hub (I’m in CA). If I get separated from my family here and I’m unable to reach them, I may still be able to reach my hub and leave a message. Others can get this message if they’re not able to reach me. It’s not perfect but it’s a plan. Practice your plan. First to work out the kinks. Second, so that it is second nature if you need to implement it. The best of plans is no good if you wander around wondering what to do next. And you might not have the luxury of time. Finally, following a plan is a perishable skill. You need to practice it regularly enough to be able to follow it well.

A word about our non-human family members: Depending on your pet type, you may not be welcomed into a shelter. This is especially true for dogs and exotic pets. You’re going to want to check on boarding or other services available before disaster strikes. And all of the above goes for our pets too. They need water, food, shelter, medication, first aid, etc. if they’re going to survive.

Finally, prepare for the worst and scale it back if it doesn’t happen. Think about how you’d survive a major event that puts you out of your home and with little assistance from public safety personnel. Think Katrina, 9/11, or last week’s earthquake in Japan. How will you survive if all you have is yourself to rely on?

This list is by no means exhaustive. Hopefully it gets you to start thinking about your safety and planning what you will do in an emergency. We may never need to implement our plans but if we’re unprepared, we will likely fail.

Be safe.

All Things Dor

I'm not blogging for fame, money, or a cause. I'm just here expressing myself and putting out thoughts on topics of interest to me. If someone enjoys what I have to share, good. If you don't, feel free to exercise your freedom of speech. But be warned, this blog is not a democracy. I reserve the right to delete posts that I find offensive, are hateful, or just plain mean.

I'll comment on Gaming, World News, the Cigar Culture, victuals and libations. Not necessary in that order. What qualifies me to talk on any of the topics? Nothing other than being an avid consumer and geek.

I've been gaming since I was in Junior High and played the original paper and pencil D&D. While I've stayed in touch with paper and pencil fantasy gaming, I have been a PC based gamer since the early 80's. My gaming is focused on FPS, FRP, & MMORPG. In fact the pseudonym I use almost everywhere on the net is the name I've used in gaming since I was 13. I've also used the name Yegg.

I really became a news junky in the early 90's, but having worked in law enforcement and after 9/11 I really focused my interest in reading more widely and from as many sources as I could find; especially international sources.

Cigars and I go way back. I remember fishing with my dad as a kid and him smoking a Dutch Masters. Yeah, nothing fancy for him. But it wasn't until about 11 years ago that I picked up my first smoke. I was motivated by recalling my father's habit while fishing and a colleague who was a cigar lover and who had been murdered. Now it's mostly for me, but on the anniversary of my dad's death and my colleagues murder, I'll light a special stick and have a private conversation.

Welcome to my place. Hope to see you around.