Preppers need the ability to bug out of a city, but what if in the chaos there is a riot, or a riot is causing the chaos? Do you have the riot gear needed to aid your escape?
Riots can pose a serious threat to anyone living in or traveling through a city. The following supplies should be considered for any urban bug out bag or urban get home bag where/when violent protests or riots pose a threat to safety and survival.
1 – Proper Shoes
Protecting your feet, while maintaining the ability to move quickly on foot, is essential to survival in an urban SHTF situation, particularly riots. The streets will be unpredictable and hazardous. Expect broken glass, rubble, and other debris scattered across the concrete. Expect crowd patterns to change without warning, requiring you to be able to change direction or move quickly to avoid danger.
You want sturdy, lace up shoes with thick soles to protect you from the cuts and punctures that running on debris might cause. You need traction because the ground can become wet and slippery. Think water cannons, for example.
They should have some level of ankle support both for additional debris protection but also for stability in that kind of environment where you have to move quickly. The last thing you want in the middle of a human stampede is to fall over with a sprained ankle. Your shoes should also have a sturdy toe box in case your feet get stepped on by others.
You don’t want something too rugged, however. Heavy hiking or work boots offer a lot of protection, but they are not comfortable for running and will slow you down, particularly if you have to run long distances. They are also not great for jumping or climbing fences. Good examples would be trail running sneakers.
My choice would be the Danner 600 lightweight hiking boot, but for many, solid running sneakers might be best choice.
- WATERPROOF hiking boots featuring 100% waterproof Danner Dry barrier, allowing moisture to escape without letting water in, keeping your feet dry and comfortable all day
- DURABLE men’s hiking boots with smooth suede uppers built to last on the trail, and coming with two lace options, because you can never have too many laces
- ORTHOLITE triple-density polyurethane hiking boot footbed for maximum comfort and support. Open-cell construction improves heat dissipation and air circulation
- SPE MIDSOLE made from rubberized EVA maintains the same cushioning properties but is more durable, enhances rebound, comfort, and support
- SLIP-RESISTANT Vibram Fuga outsole features self-adapting lugs and is made from specially-formulated Megagrip compound, providing incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces
2 – A Riot Gear Bag to Carry it All
If you want to carry everything I’m mentioning here you’re going to need a bigger bag than you might like. The problem is that a bigger bag slows you down.
You can compensate for some of those disadvantages by using a contoured, lightweight backpack that hugs your body and has a thick waist belt to keep the weight off your shoulders. This is the best option for someone that needs to cover all of their bases and needs to bug out THROUGH a riot or can keep everything in the trunk of a vehicle – just in case.
However, if you have to travel through a riot, much of the riot gear I mention here will already on your body, dramatically reducing the size of the bag.
My preferred pack company is Osprey. They make strong, lightweight packs that are not overly “tactical” (think gray man). Their packs also hug closely to your body, which helps you move more quickly, more comfortably.
Best
- Ultralight, AirSpeed injection-molded ladder adjustment system provides 4" of torso adjustability of a customizable fit
- ExoForm harness features seamless layered mesh to provide improved comfort and cushioning
- Removable floating lid with top- and under-lid zippered pockets and integrated flapJacket cover for lidless use
- Dual ice axe loops with bungee tie-off, Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment, and sternum strap with integrated safety whistle
- Front stretch mesh pocket for stashing gear, dual-access stretch mesh side pockets and dual-zippered hipbelt pockets to keep essentials handy
Totally Fine
A lower cost, albeit lower quality pack would be the INOXTO 40L pack.
- 🕐【HIGH QUALITY & DOUBLE WATERPROOF BACKPACK】: Our INOXTO Hiking Backpack is made of sturdy ripstop water-resistant Polyester Material. KAM zippers - durable zipper, well-sewn craftsmanship, high dense stitching. Built with strong stitching in the places you need it such like the shoulder straps, carrying handle, bottom and other places. With waterproof rain cover for free prevents your outdoor gear from getting wet in drizzle, not afraid the rain anymore.
- 🕑【LARGE CAPACITY & INNOVATIVE DESIGN】The dimensions of Our Camping Backpack are 22 x 13 x 8.7 inch with a capacity of 40 liters. 1 main Compartment for a 17"laptop, 3 front pockets, 2 side pockets, bottom pocket are accessible to the main compartment and can help you get items easily without open the main compartment.When you close the zipper on the inside of the bottom pocket, it can be used as a new saparate shoe compartment.
- 🕒【MULTI ADJUSTABLE STRAPS】:The INOXTO Hiking daypack has four side-compression straps to reduce the pack ’s size when it is not fully loaded and it can also be used as hangers for your clothes or other things.Extra compression straps also for binding your belongings such as sleeping bags, tent, hammocks, alpenstock or gears. Mesh side pockets and lower gear loops on side for long item storage.
- 🕓【BREATHABLE SYSTEM & WIDE RANGE APPLICATION】:The INOXTO 40L Hiking bag is well constructed with streamlined suspension system and breathable mesh padding on back, shoulder straps, hip belt for relieving fatigue and ventilation, speed up heat dissipation.Making your trips more comfortable.Ideal comfort for day-to-day use or day trips, vacation, travel, day hikes, camping and shopping, and great gift for everyone.
- 🕔【SERVICE & STRONG AFTER-SALE SUPPORT】We promise to provide the best products and services to all buyers who believe in and choose our products. Moreover we have a professional service team that are always ready to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any question/issue regarding our INOXTO backpack or other concerns that are of your interest. We'll do our best to assist with any problem you might encounter.
3 – Proper Clothes
Wearing proper clothes during a riot is important for protection, mobility, and safety. The right clothing can help shield you from environmental hazards, prevent injuries, and allow you to move freely.
Generally speaking, you want to avoid anything that screams “protestor.” So, you should wear neutral colors. This is going to help you blend in with the general population and not be seen as part of the protest or riot.
You should particularly avoid wearing black, which is often associated with different types of protests. Black is often worn by protestors in what’s called a black bloc. Protestors will all wear black clothing, ski masks, sunglasses, helmets, etc. They do this to conceal their identities from the police and opposition parties who might be trying to dox them. It’s a tactic that also allows them to appear as one large unified mass.
On the flip side of that, if you ARE taking an active part in a protest, it is probably wise TO wear black. Not only to show unity with your side, but also to help you blend in and better protect your identity.
Whatever color you choose, you should wear long sleeve pants and shirts. The obvious reason for this is that it will help protect your skin from flying debris, tear gas, pepper spray, etc. If you have tattoos on your arms or legs, it will also cover those, which can help you from being identified by authorities. This is important whether you’re taking part in a riot but also if you’re caught up in one where you could be guilty by assumption.
Personally, I would wear lightweight zip pants, the kind I wear for hiking. This gives you the option to quickly turn them into shorts if needed, and, if you need to change your appearance for any reason, turning pants into shorts can’t hurt. It also has a variety of pockets that I can use to hold different gear I want quick access to.
- Hiking Pants Mens: This hiking zip off pants men features a classic cargo silhouette with zip off leg design. Perfect for hiking, fishing, travel, or your favorite outdoor pursuit.
- Sun Protection Fishing Pants Men: These men’s fishing or boy scout pants are with Omni-Wick technology that pulls moisture away to keep you cool and dry.Unique UPF 50 fabric for maximum protection against the sun.
- Convertible Pants Men: Elastic wear, water repellent, wear-resisting, quick dry. Zip-off legs pants make it easy to change from pants to shorts.
- Cargo Pants Men: This men's durable camping pant designed with multiple pockets - two front slant pockets, two ergonomic cargo pockets and rear pockets for ultimate convenience and efficiency during your activities.
- Quick Dry Pants Men: This outdoor and casual pants are suitable for casual and outdoor recreation wear, such as hiking, travel, skiing, riding, walking, camping, mountaineering, hunt, climb, etc
You might also consider disposable rain gear if you think being contaminated by tear gas or pepper spray is a significant risk. Something like a stasher jacket, a cheap rain jacket carried by hikers, is perfect for this.
- WATERPROOF - Made with frogg toggs breathable, non-woven fabric that is waterproof, wind resistant, and extremely lightweight. Perfect for light use when reliable waterproof protection is necessary
- AFFORDABLE PROTECTION - the unique Polypropylene material provides excellent, affordable, and reliable rainwear
- FEATURES - Jacket features an adjustable hood with cord locks, a full front zipper with storm flap, and elastic cuffs. Relaxed fit designed to quickly fit over existing clothing
- USES - The Ultra Lite Jacket compresses easily and is perfect for backpackers, stadium seats, sports sidelines, puddle jumping, emergency kits or anywhere a lightweight rain jacket is needed
- SINCE 1996 - frogg toggs has endeavored to provide the world's best rainwear, waders, cooling products, footwear and accessories at the best possible prices
Dress Like a Construction Worker
Here is an off-the-wall idea to consider. Carry a high visibility vest. That could also aid your escape. An article by Vice News concluded that wearing a high visibility vest can get you into many places for free. A few guys tried it and got into the movies, a zoo, and a concert. In a pinch, you might be able to escape a riot by appearing as an essential worker and walking past
barricades without question.
- MATERIALS: 100% Polyester H-Vis Reflective Material, Durable, Breathable, Lightweight and Machine Washable. Customers who prefer a Loose Fit should order next 1-2 sizes up. Please check the size chart before placing the order!
- HIGH VISIBILITY AND 360° REFLECTIVITY: Neon Yellow safety vest is high visibility with two-inch wide reflective strips cover the waist, chest, shoulders and back which provide 360°protection while you are working under daylight or low light conditions.
- 9 MULTI-FUNCTION POCKETS DESIGNED: This Safety Vest comes with 9 Front Pockets with Zipper Velcro clamshell closure for easy access. Enough space for cell phone, flashlight, and laser pointer.
- INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS: Multiple Applications for Municipal Workers, Constructions, Contractors, Renovation Professionals, Engineers, Surveyors, Forestry, Warehouse Personnel, Securities, Parking Attendants, Public Safety Officers, Airport Ground Crews, Crossing Safety Guard, Cycling, Wildness Hiking, Park Walking, Jogging, Motor Riding, or Volunteering.
- CERTIFICATIONS: Full compliance with ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 Type R. Any Imperfection are guarantee for Full Refund or Exchanged. Risk-Free! ADD TO CART NOW
If the idea of disguise appeals to you, consider wearing a shirt or other piece of apparel with PRESS written on it. Law enforcement won’t treat you special, but they might overlook you if they think you’re not part of the chaos, merely reporting on it.
- BOLD, HIGH-CONTRAST EMBROIDERED PATCHES featuring PRESS in white on black ensure immediate recognition, making them essential for photographer vest, photojournalist vest, and media personnel in high-stakes or chaotic scenarios
- THE VERSATILE SIZE of these 3 PRESS vest patches, measuring 3.15x9.8 inches (8x25 cm), 1x4.5 inches (2.5x11.5 cm), and 3.54x2 inches (9x5 cm), makes them ideal for attachment to tactical vest, military backpack, tactical hat, and dog vest
- BUILT TO LAST with durable polyester, this PRESS patch set is designed to endure harsh conditions, making it perfect as large patches for vests or a backpack sticker; easy to clean, they maintain their high-contrast appearance over time
- SECURE & QUICK ATTACHMENT is provided by the hook and loop backing, offering effortless yet sturdy application; these patches for vest are crafted to save you valuable time when switching between a photographer vest and a body armor vest
- EFFECTIVE IN LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL SETTINGS this PRESS patch, tactical badge set resonates globally, making it a go-to choice for journalists, photojournalists, independent reporters, and photographers; ideal as patches for bulletproof vest
4 – Head Protection
You gotta protect your head in a riot. It’s critical. Protestors throw bricks and bottles. Police fire rubber bullets. People also get hit on the head with fists, boards, pipes, and batons. The last thing you want in a riot is to get knocked unconscious or to end up with traumatic brain injury.
You need a helmet of some type. A sturdy helmet will protect your head and it might make you less likely to be singled out as an easy target by an aggressor. Tactical helmets will offer the best protection, but they’re expensive and might make you stand
out more than you’d like.
Good
A bike helmet is a better option because they’re common, easy to blend in with the crowd, relatively inexpensive, and you might already own one.
- PREMIUM PROTECTION - Ride, skate, or roll into every adventure with top-notch protection! Lightweight yet incredibly durable, the Dakota multi-sport helmet is made with a fully formed ABS shell and shock-absorbing EPS foam to effectively absorb impact energy in case of an accident, keeping you safe.
- MULTI-SPORT HELMET -The versatile Dakota helmet is designed to provide exceptional protection across a range of activities, serving as an ideal skateboard helmet, BMX helmet, skating helmet, scooter helmet, roller derby helmet, and more.
- BREATHABLE 10-VENT AIRFLOW - Stay cool with strategically placed open vents on the front, top, and back of the helmet to allow 360 degrees of airflow.
- MOISTURE WICKING INTERIOR - The interior padding is designed to wick away sweat and moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable during your ride. The padding is removable and washable, making it easy to maintain a clean and fresh helmet.
- REMOVABLE AND WASHABLE LINING - Crafted with interior padding that can be easily removed, washed by hand, and air-dried, ensuring a clean and fresh helmet.
Better
A climbing helmet is another option. They offer good ventilation, even stronger protection, and they’re exceptionally comfortable.
- Comfortable ventilated helmet
- Headband: 53-63 cm
- Weight: 490 g
- Certification (s): CE, EN 397, EN 12492, ANSI Z89.1 Type I Class C, EAC
Best
A construction hard hat is another solid choice. They’re sturdy and widely available. If you use one, you could also carry a bright construction vest. If you needed to suddenly change your appearance, the two together would make you look like a construction worker, not a troublemaker.
- 【Reliable&Stylish Safety Hard Hat】:GREEN DEVIL safety helmet hard hat with visor is made of high impact penetration resistant ABS materials,lightweight,strong and comfortable. A good choice to protect heads against falling objects, impacts, bumps, and scrapes.These safety hard hats meet ANSI Z89.1-2014 Type I Class C standards.Give you and your company the ideal choice in ANSI Type I head protection.
- 【Optional Visor Combination】 Hard hat and visor combination can be applied to more work environments.Easy flip-up visor provides good visibility and debris protection.The visor can be UP AND DOWN. When you use it, slide down to protect our our eyes against scrach and dust or debris,when not in use, slide to the top of safety helmet.The visors meet ANSI Z87.1-2015 standards.
- 【Comfort Fit】:Adjustable 6-point suspension system for improved shock absorption and overall comfort.The replaceable soft brow pad make workers comfort fit during whole working hours.Comfortable and convenient chinstrap with molded chin-cup for extra security and stability,also it's easy to remove.One adjustable size fits most. Helmet size range from 53-63cm/ 20.86-24.80 inch.
- 【More Humanized Design】:Complete with Rapid-Dial ratcheting headgear,one-handed adjustment design allows workers to modify fit without removing work helmet,even with gloves on.Sliding vent holes allow easy opening and closing based on weather conditions .Universal slots design ensures that safety hardhats to install attachments.And the safety helmet has Hi-Viz design on the front-rear-and sides of the helmet allows the user increased visibility under low light conditions.
- 【Ideal For】:GREEN DEVIL safety helmet with visor is suitable for construction,woodworking,mechanics,forestry,manufacturing,height and scaffolding work, in any trade that requiring general head protection.
5 – Face and Eye Protection
Face and eye protection are crucial in a riot situation to shield yourself from the hazards we’ve already discussed – flying material, pepper spray, tear gas, water cannons, etc. Dust, dirt, and shattered glass are all common in chaotic urban environments. Smoke from fires as well. You need to maintain your vision to escape danger.
Protecting your face and eyes will make you better suited for any physical altercations. A face shield can absorb the impact from blows, protecting your face, teeth, and jaw. Impact resistant goggles would work for your eyes. Ballistic goggles would work even better.
Best
- Outstanding impact resistance, even at low temperatures
- Lenses meet high velocity impact protection and safety ratings
- Anti-reflective coating on inside of lenses minimizes distracting reflections
A helmet with a face shield would combine both head and face protection. If you purchase a quality hard hat as your helmet, it likely incorporates some level of eye protection.
Good Enough
For me, I use simple shooting range glasses as they’re affordable and I find my vision to be more crisp through the amber-colored lenses.
- EASE OF USE: Glasses feature 4 sets of lenses (smoke, clear mirror, vermillion, amber) that can be changed out using the "one-touch" pop-out method that does not require any flexing or bending of the frames to complete
- DURABLE: ANSI Z87+ certified for pivotal impact resistance
- CONVENIENT: Anti-fog lenses allow for use in colder, or changing, temperatures or during high movement sports or jobs and the rubber nose and ear pieces keep them from slipping while in use
- RELIABLE: UV400 rating to protect your eyes in high sunlight situations
- INCLUDES: Hard zippered storage case with microfiber cloth
6 – Lung Protection
For the chemical agents used to disperse crowds, you also need lung protection. Tear gas and pepper spray are commonly used crowd control measures. These chemicals cause severe irritation to the respiratory system, leading to coughing, choking, difficulty breathing, and a burning sensation in the lungs and throat.
Cheap and Easy
Simple N95 masks will help you breathe through smoke and ash while also protecting your identity. That’s a cheap, quick option, and preppers should already have a stock of those, but they won’t do much against pepper spray.
- Funight Ventilation Series KN95 Face Masks follow the GB2626-2019 respiratory protection standards. These standards require all masks to have a filtration efficiency of at least 95%, which means the material can filter out harmful molecules such as fine particles and dust.
- Funight Ventilation Series KN95 Face Masks maintain a strict filtration efficiency standard while keeping the design comfortable and breathable. Each KN95 mask is composed of water column-grade melt-blown fabric, which has been proven to be more efficient than cloth masks due to its electrostatic properties. Through this design, Funight Ventilation Series KN95 Mask has achieved breathing resistance that is 20% better than that of the GB2626-2020 standard.
- Funight Black Face Mask: Increasing the width of the ear loop to 5.6 mm reduces pain in the ear and makes it more comfortable. And the ultrasonic welding technology we use makes the surfaces of two objects form a fusion between the molecular layers, without any rough stitches and thread ends, and make the ear hook stronger.
- 5-Ply Layers of Protective Filtration – Our KN95 masks are truly made of 5 layers with 2 non-woven outer layers as well as 2 melt-blown inner layers and a non-woven middle layer to absorb small moisture particles. Which is more protective than a 3-ply disposable mask to help filter out 95% of particles.
- Disclaimer: This KN95 mask is NOT an N95 mask. For more information about KN95 masks please see the following before you purchase: amazon.com/AboutKN95s.
To get an idea for the effects of pepper spray, or at least PAVA powder, see my video Me vs Pepper Grenade.
As I mentioned, riots often involve fires as well, which means smoke from burning vehicles and buildings, toxic fumes, or carbon monoxide. For these, the ideal protection is going to be a full gas mask that comes with a face shield, protecting your lungs, face, and eyes all in one.
Okay Choice
- VARIETY OF USES- Israeli style full face respirator mask is best suited for cosplay masks, Halloween costumes, light industrial use, household chores, paintball, emergency preparedness, dust mask, prepper gear and supplies, survival kits, etc.
- UNIVERSAL FIT- The rubber respirator mask has 5 adjustable headstraps- one size fits all, from kids to adults. Includes a connection for 40mm filters (included). Lenses made from clear, scratch-resistant plexiglass.
- HYDRATION PORT: This full face mask includes a built-in hydration port, which allows the user to drink without removing the mask. (Straw and bottle sold separately).
- 40mm FILTER- Activated charcoal has been treated with oxygen to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms. The use of special manufacturing techniques results in highly porous charcoals that have surface areas of 300-2,000 square meters per gram. Charcoals are widely used to absorb odorous or colored substances from gases or liquids.
Some people find these claustrophobic, but that is more of an issue with cheaper surplus masks. They’re harder to see and breathe in.
Best Choice
A better option is the more modern gas masks like those from MIRA Safety. You can see my video testing this against a smoke grenade and pepper grenade.
- BEST FULL FACE RESPIRATOR MASK FOR CIVILIANS— If you are looking for an ultra premium air purifying face mask at an affordable price, then you have found the right choice! Our Mira Safety Full-Face Filter Mask Respirator CM-6M provides maximin protection, while providing a flexible and comfortable design. It also comes with a pre-installed hydration system and 900 mL water bottle canteen!
- BE PREPARED FOR ANY EMERGENCY! Get peace of mind knowing that you are safe and protected from potential airborne threats. This reusable Mira Safety Air Purifying Mask helps you prepare for any nuclear, chemical, or biological dangers. Guard yourself against harmful gases and other dangerous substances wearing your Mira Safety Gas Mask. It also features an innovative built-in speech diaphragm to make communication easier and more efficient.
- HEAVY DUTY DESIGN WITH 20 YEAR SHELF LIFE: This robust particulate respirator face mask is built to last with a full 20 year shelf life. The durable bromobutyl rubber construction combined with our special 5 year manufacturer warranty makes it the #1 choice for respiratory face mask. Click the yellow “Add to Cart” button today with complete confidence!
- SAFE & CERTIFIED CBRN PREMIUM RESPIRATORY MASK— Unlike other cheap respirator masks, our Mira Safety Full Face Respiratory Masks are both CE and CBRN approved! Trusted by professionals worldwide, our Mira Safety Respirator Masks conform to quality and sustainability standards. This is a must-have safety mask for your personal protective equipment.
- MAXIMUM PROTECTION FOR MANY USES! The full-face panoramic design with a large visor enables a 180° wide-angle vision view for industrial, agricultural, law enforcement, professional rescue, specialized welding, construction, and painting applications. Our air masks also feature a hypoallergenic inner mask that prevents fogging. It is compatible with CamelBak water bladders, and wearing with helmets and Miravision Spectacle Kits. It fits up to 2 standard 40-mm 1/7” NATO filter cartridges.
A full-face gas mask with appropriate chemical filters provides the most comprehensive protection against these hazardous agents, reducing the short and long-term risk of lung damage and making your movements through a riot much safer.
7 – Ear Protection
Riots are loud! Ear protection is a critical piece of your riot gear. Noise canceling head phones won’t do the trick!
Police use different types of sound deterrent devices in riot control and crowd management. They’re non-lethal, but really, really loud. They emit sounds and tones that are beyond the normal human threshold of pain and they can permanently damage hearing. They’re painful and disorienting.
If you’re on the receiving end of these things you’ll definitely want to move. You won’t have a choice. You’ll be glad you packed ear protection. The Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) is probably the most well-known sound deterrent. It’s
a highly directional device so police can target specific areas of the crowd.
The Acoustic Hailing Device (AHD) works in a similar fashion. They’re less intense than LRADs, but they can also be used as communication devices. Think of it as a megaphone on steroids.
Solid Choice
Having gun-range worthy hearing protection is important. Simple shooting range earmuffs work will, but a better choice would be the electronic earmuffs, which only kick on when a loud noise hits. This key feature allows you to hear what else is going on around you – important in a chaotic event!
- Amplifies ambient noise for situational awareness
- Volume control knob allows easy adjustment
- Padded headband for comfort
- Audio input jack to connect external audio devices
Cheap and Easy
However, you can use the traditional soft foam earplugs. They’re cheap, small, and lightweight. You could pack a ton of these to hand out to others.
- ULTRA COMFORTABLE - Made with super low-pressure, slow release, Comfy Cush Comfort Foam. Their user preferred color is as easy on your eyes as they are on your ears
- ULTRA NOISE BLOCKERS – With a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 33 decibels, these versatile, noise blocking earplugs are great for sleeping, studying, work, travel, concerts, relaxation, motorcycling, loud events, etc
- #1 BRAND FOR SNORING, SLEEPING AND TO PROTECT HEARING - Mack’s is the #1 doctor recommended brand of foam earplugs to protect hearing and to get a good night’s sleep when sleeping with a snoring spouse
- #1 BRAND USED BY DOCTORS - Mack’s is the #1 brand of foam earplugs personally used by doctors. Trust the brand that doctors trust
- MADE IN THE USA – Proudly made in the USA with safe, high performance, noise reducing foam. Satisfaction guaranteed. The plastic jar is safety-sealed and features a convenient flip-open top for easy dispensing
8 – Hand Protection
Gloves are another essential piece of protective gear. There is a high likelihood you could encounter sharp objects, broken glass, debris, and generally just need to protect your hands from injury. Gloves can also provide a protective barrier if you’re administering medical care to someone that is bleeding.
You want gloves that will maintain finger dexterity. You might need to scale a fence, jump barricades, grip tools, handle ropes or wires, etc.
Simple Choice
Basic work gloves will suit most people just fine, and odds are high you probably already have a pair.
- Utility Work Gloves: Synthetic leather palm provides rugged toughness and shrink resistance. Stretchable spandex back for enhanced dexterity and breathability. Touch screen fingertips make it capable for your phone or tablet without having to take the gloves off
- Flexible and Comfortable: Lightweight, breathable mens work gloves for all-day comfort. Exquisite using of meterial provides overall wear-resistance, grip and durability. Flexible, practical and snug-fit utility gloves give you more dexterity and finger control
- Padded Palm and Knuckles Protection: Reinforced pigskin leather fingertips and palm patch with foam inside offers long-lasting durability, adds extra protection and resistance to wear. Foam padding knuckles for light impact protection
- Easy On, Easy Off: Adjustable hook and loop strips closure cuff provides a snug secure fit for ideal performance. Machine wash cool. Air drying is recommended in order to keep the size consistent with its original form
- Wide Applications: Best choice for everyday general purpose uses like regular construction, maintenance, mechanical work, logistic, warehousing, landscaping/gardening, hand tools, and DIY light duty works
They’ll also go well with the essential worker helmet and vest to complete that outfit.
Also Good
I like my cheap “tactical” gloves. They are not overly robust or high quality, but they offer solid knuckle protection (think possible melee situation), and they are affordable enough to buy a few pair to stash in different vehicles or kits.
- Full Protection to Your Hands
- More Durable & Better Grip
- Good Flexibility Feel
- Keep Your Hands Dry and Clean
- Good quality
9 – A Bottle of Water
Water is essential for hydration, but when it comes to social unrest and riots, it often serves another purpose – flushing eyes to get tear gas and pepper spray out. You might need this for someone else, a friend or loved one, or you might need someone to use it on you.
But you are more likely to use your water for hydration. Getting away from danger in an urban setting can be physically demanding, particularly if it’s on a hot day. Dehydration can lead to weakness, dizziness, and impair decision-making, thus compromising your safety. For that matter, including some food, like energy bars, would also be helpful.
10 – Trauma or First Aid Kit
If you’ve seen news clips of riots and urban chaos, it almost always contains imagery of people who have become bloodied, injured, or even killed. Protests turn violent amazingly fast. People get hit, smashed, trampled, and burned. It can be horrible.
Common injuries include blunt force trauma, burns from fire or explosions, contusions from rubber bullets, sprains, and – as mentioned, eye and respiratory injuries.
Carrying a trauma or basic first aid kit will ensure you are prepared to handle injuries that might occur.
I have a basic IFAK, Individual First Aid Kit, here that covers the basics. It’s lightweight and compact, which, again, is important for maintaining the ability to move quickly.
- ✅【Everlit Emergency Trauma Kit】: Uniquely customized by U.S military VETERANS to get you well-prepared in advance to emergencies during the outdoor adventure, hunting, camping, travel, disaster, and accident. Everlit Emergency Trauma Kit is ideal for field tactical medics, police, military, combat life savers, first responders, outdoor enthusiasts and more!
- ✅【Massive Hemorrhage and Circulatory Care】: This kit contains the most use friendly, compact and popular survival and first aid supplies for massive bleeding control on the market, which includes: military combat tourniquet, tactical pressure dressing, and compressed gauze.
- ✅【Respiratory and Hypothermia Treatment】: Sealing the open chest wound seems like a no brainer for respiratory care. As a seal, a durable plastic packaging of any product in the kit can be used to seal the wound with the first aid tape. A shock often occurs after massive loss of blood, causing a drop of body temperature. The emergency thermal blanket is designed to keep body temperature warm as a treatment for hypothermia.
- ✅【Bone Fracture Treatment】: 36 Inch Splint Roll to keep your bones in position, triangle bandage and elastic bandage to wrap around and secure the limb from moving around. Together, those items are purposely selected in this kit for any bone fracture of your limbs.
Whatever it is should contain the supplies needed to stop bleeding, reduce swelling, and stabilize injuries so they don’t get worse before you can find medical attention.
11 – City Map
Carrying a map in a riot situation is a strategic and practical safety measure for several reasons. Cell service may be disrupted or intentionally shut down, GPS signals might be unreliable, or your phone could run out of battery. Digital maps may become inaccessible if the internet is down.
A physical map allows you to navigate the area without relying on technology. You can identify your location, plot escape routes, and find alternative paths to safety even if your phone is unusable.
Roads may be blocked, public transportation could be shut down, and crowds might make certain routes impassable. A map helps you identify safe zones, such as police stations, hospitals, or other places of refuge. You can also use it to plan multiple escape routes, avoiding main thoroughfares where clashes are more likely to occur.
Urban areas often have complex layouts, with alleys, side streets, and public transport routes that might not be immediately obvious. A detailed map gives you a better understanding of the local terrain, including shortcuts, alleyways, or even building layouts that can be used to evade crowds or find shelter. It can also help you identify elevated areas or bridges that could provide a better vantage point or escape route.
A map helps you avoid these bottlenecks by finding less congested routes, reducing the risk of getting stuck in your vehicle in a potentially dangerous situation.
Studying a map in advance allows you to plan and memorize these routes, so you’re better prepared if you need to move quickly or if primary routes become blocked or dangerous.
12 – Multi-Tool
A multi-tool typically includes a variety of tools like a knife, pliers, screwdrivers, and more, all in one compact device. This versatility means you’re prepared for a wide range of challenges that might arise during a riot.
You find yourself trapped behind a barrier or need to cut through a seatbelt in an overturned vehicle. The knife or scissors on your multi-tool can help you cut through materials like seatbelts, rope, or zip ties.
While not ideal as a primary means of self-defense, the knife blade on a multi-tool can be used to fend off an attacker in a pinch, and if you’re caught up in the chaos and arrested, a multi-tool will make you look less like a hooligan intent on causing harm than say a fixed blade knife might.
The scissors can be used to cut bandages, gauze, or clothing away from a wound, and the tweezers can help remove small shards of glass or debris from a wound.
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13 – Self Defense Tools
You will want some type of self defense tool if you need to escape an area being overrun with rioters. Cities often have pretty tight laws around what you can carry, concealed or otherwise, when it comes to firearms, so I’m not going to give you any advice there. Check the laws in your area and do what seems right for you and your situation. There are some non-lethal tools that you can consider, however.
Multi-Use Choice
A tactical flashlight is another idea. These powerful lights can either be used to temporarily blind someone, signal for help, or with their jagged ends, be used as a scraping or jabbing tool. Of course, they’re also critical to have on-hand if you are operating at night, particularly when power might go out in the city. For that reason, I would also recommend a quality headlamp so you can move with your hands free.
Best Choice
Pepper spray and stun guns are also good nonlethal options, just make sure to check the laws in your area. In tight situations, pens, and in particular tactical pens, make great, discreet self defense tools. If you need to move in a crowd, or move someone out of a crowd, pressing the end of a pen into their side, between the ribs, will absolutely get them moving out of your way. Just watch out for them to swing an elbow in your direction.
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Unsuspecting Choice
Tactical pens are unsuspecting self-defense tools that are sleek and easy to carry. Particularly in crowded situations, they can be very effective when used correctly to press between ribs, into the neck, etc. The Olight tactical pen has the additional benefit of including a small light.
- The output of the green beam≤0.39mW, Class 1. It is within the safe range and does no harm to humans and animals
- 4-in-1 Design: It features a pen, pen clip LED light, pen tip light, and green beam at the tail, providing multiple functions in one device
- Convinient Charging Base: The pen light comes with a newly designed charging base,making it easy to keep the penlight charged and ready for use
- Adjustable Brightness: The pen clip LED light can be adjusted from 5 to 120 lumens, making it suitable for a range of lighting needs
- Slim Body Proportion and Lightweight: Comfortable and stylish grip and ideal for everyday carry and various activities
The point here is that riots are violent by nature. Rioters throw things, smash windows, loot stores, and even surround vehicles. Plan and act accordingly.
14 – Communication Device
Carrying communication devices during a riot will help ensure your safety, keep you informed, and let you coordinate with others.
A cell phone is going to be your obvious first and most important communication device. They’re like small computers in addition to phones, so you can use them for a whole lot more than just calling or texting. If you’re going to rely on your cell phone, you should also consider having a small power bank in case you are out for an extended period.
Cell phones are also a great asset in a riot, because of their cameras. You can record crimes in progress. You can snap photos of people committing crime, license plates, etc. Hold these people accountable.
All of that being said, there are potential downsides to carrying a cell phone in any type of urban unrest situation, because they can be monitored. If riots are breaking out, you can bet that phones will be tracked, during or after the event. You’d want to avoid making calls and sending texts in the thick of the chaos. You could keep it turned off entirely, only turning it on if you need it, or you could consider a burner phone, but leaving it at home might be a wise choice for some.
Another option is to carry your cell phone in a Faraday sleeve like those from Mission Darkness. This would cut the signal that your phone emits and receives entirely, but also allowing you to keep it with you should you need to use it.
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- ✅ NEOLOK MAGNETIC CLOSURE - Simple and secure NeoLok closure consisting of a double roll with a strong neodymium magnetic seal. Bag can easily open and close with one hand.
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There is also the risk that cell service is down or could go down. Having a communication device that doesn’t rely on cellular towers is wise, even if just for backup communication.
This is where a handheld ham radio can help. You don’t need cellular towers and it’s perfect for grid-down communication. It can serve as a scanner, keeping you informed about what’s happening if you program it in advance. A simple Baofeng radio can offer many advantages.
- Long Range Professional Walkie Talkie: The communication distance can reach 3-5Mile. Featuring a sturdy casing and anti drop design, your radio can withstand harsh conditions and have a longer lifespan. FCC Certification,FCC ID:2AJGM-5RM. Support Chirp (Compatible programming software: UV-17Pro).
- Type-C Rechargeable: The Type-C charging port is designed on the back of the battery, making it convenient for you to charge anytime and anywhere. When you go out, you can charge your walkie talkie on the car, power bank, laptop, or any USB interface device, no longer worrying about battery life issues
- Wireless Frequency Copy: Easily decipher the frequency of another ham walkie talkie without the need for computer programming.
- High Gian Long Antenna: 21CM antenna, suitable for most female ham radios, it can enhance signal and increase communication distance, flexible, easy to bend, lightweight, and convenient to carry
- VOX-Free Your Hands/FM Function: When you are busy, you don't have to keep pressing PTT, you just need to transmit information through sound transmission. When you have free time, you can also listen to local radio programs to relax your body and mind.
These WILL have limited range in an urban center due to high-rise buildings, but you can offset that to some degree by upgrading the antenna to something more powerful.
- Enhanced Signal Strength: The Nagoya NA-771 Dual Band Amateur Antenna offers a notable performance increase, with a gain of up to 3 dBi. This enhancement ensures a powerful boost to your radio's signal strength, providing clearer and more reliable communication.
- Rugged and Flexible Design: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this 15.6-inch standard whip antenna is crafted to withstand the challenges of nature. Its soft yet durable flexibility makes it far superior to OEM radio antennas, perfect for outdoor and camping activities.
- Precision Engineered for Peak Performance: Each Nagoya Standard Whip Antenna is meticulously tested and fine-tuned to operate optimally. This commitment to precision engineering guarantees unmatched performance in communication.
- Broad Compatibility with SMA-Female Connector: This antenna, featuring an SMA-Female connector, is tailored to offer broad compatibility with numerous radios, such as popular models from Baofeng and BTECH. This design ensures effortless integration with a variety of amateur radios, making it a versatile and practical choice for enhancing communication capabilities across different devices.
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
Having a good communication device can not only help keep you informed, and keep you connected to loved ones, but you can also use it to CALL law enforcement or to CALL for medical services. Maybe you want to report crimes in progress. Law enforcement might be too busy to handle it, but maybe not, too. You don’t know. You need the option.
15 & 16 – Cash and ID (maybe)
Just like your cell phones, credit cards can leave digital breadcrumbs indicating where you have been. Even if you’re not directly involved in a riot, you don’t want to be remotely associated with one, so having cash on hand would allow you to buy something in the area without leaving a digital trail of your having been there. I wouldn’t stash this in my bag, however. You might lose it. Keep it in your pants pocket, bra, shoe, or somewhere else.
As for your ID, use your judgment here. If you get caught up in the mayhem and are swooped up by authorities with everyone else, not having your ID might keep you stuck behind bars for a longer period of time.
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