Charting a Path: Map Use for Urban Survival
In the opening moments of disaster, calculation often goes out the window. This may drive us to recognize the necessities of our plans but lose sight of critical details, such as what we have, what we need, and most importantly, where to go next. While planning is a critical component of urban preparedness - allowing us to rehearse and default - there's no better plan than the one we've mapped out. When in doubt, 'X' marks the spot.
Out and About
Natural disaster or otherwise, there are a number of reasons why bugging out may be required. While GPS has simplified navigation at large, a tactile map becomes a useful tool regardless of the technological overlap. These maps can be marked to include waypoints, areas of interests, alternate routes (see: P.A.C.E), allowing for a complete view of the 'battlefield' at a glance. When making adjustments on the fly, having a relative location in conjunction with whatever intel may be available at the time will help to circumvent the mental math of an unknown plan. Afterall, a detour without insight can easily lead to a dead-end or duplication of effort.
When Digging In
As with the away game, bugging in comes with a host of requirements. Though your needs may evolve from the jump, having a geographical grasp on important resources such as food, clean water, medical, and other points of interest will help you to take stock of the environment. As the situation continues to develop, a map of your immediate area will also allow you to track where you've been, and in some cases, where best to avoid. For those moving to procure food or water from emplaced assets - such as snares or rain catchment - this is a great way to keep your head wrapped around location.
A Bird in the Hand
Though it's important to think of the map as a partner asset to GPS, let's not forget that Murphy has a funny way with technology. Personal maps can be printed at home with the help of Google Maps or the United States Geological Survey (USGS), while larger roadmaps can easily be purchased online. Depending on your course, laminated or waterproof maps may be best suited, however, a map case can also be utilized for those on plain stock. Regardless of the format, these maps can easily be edited, sketched on, or codified in conjunction with a separate notebook.
An Eye on the Horizon
Whether home or away, having the tools to extend your spatial awareness can pay dividends in an urban disaster scenario. By translating plans from the page to the map, you're able to quickly grasp what's in-hand and ahead, allowing you shift plans with some measure of certainty. While a map alone won't save the day, taking the time to properly research and document your findings will help to steady the uneven roads ahead. Start local and branch out from there - some say there's nothing quite like planning a road trip.