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John D. McCann

Bug-Out Security with U.V.

by John D. McCann on February 13, 2013

I was talking to a fellow on the phone the other day about bug-out bags. He indicated that he had read somewhere lately that he should mark his map with three routes to his BOL (Bug-Out Location) and asked what I thought of the idea.

I indicated that, at least in my opinion, that it didn’t sound like a sensible OPSEC (Operational Security) idea. In a bug-out situation there are many conditions that could cause your map to fall into the wrong hands.

[Read More…]

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Bugging Out with Personal Information

by John D. McCann on January 31, 2012

A copy of your personal information should always be included as part of a bug-out bag or evactuation kit. I have often been asked why we need this information and have had people say that they have this information secured in a safe in their home.

Is that information actually safe? Are you certain that your safe will survive a major fire? What if a tornado destroys or removes you house and it just can’t be found? A nuclear emergency, such as the one in Japan, might mandate an evacuation where you are not allowed to return.

There are many reason to carry important personal information when you evacuate. I like to carry a backup of my personal information on me at all times, as well as in my bug-out bag. The real problem is securing that information. I have seen it often recommended that all your personal information be placed in a file folder and kept in a large zip-lock bag. Obviously, if this file is found or stolen, you have a real potential identity theft problem. So what do you do? [Read More…]

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Misconceptions and Applications of the Mini Survival Kit

by John D. McCann on November 3, 2011

The mini survival kit is often misunderstood. I’ve seen some information put forth that might lead people to believe that a mini kit is useless. Yet people like Ron Hood, Doug Ritter and myself, among many others, have recommended them for years — and for good reason.

When utilized properly, they can be a valuable addition to one’s gear. [Read More…]

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