How to protect your family in war

How to Keep Yourself Safe in a Situation of War: Useful Tips to Survive Conflicts

Nowadays, anyone, anywhere and at any moment can find oneself caught up in a war and affected by its consequences. Whatever your status, a civilian surrounded by a combat zone or dwelling in a situation-prone neighborhood. Being equipped with knowledge to stay safe and alive during wartime is vital to your survival and safety.

This article gives you real, practical, and vital survival tips to make you safe and ready. Starting from knowing about early warnings and developing emergency strategies,I am going to take you through the most critical survival tactics to protect yourself and your family members from war.

1. Stay Informed: Stay tuned to Authentic News Channels

Being informed is the very first step in being protected during war.

• Watch trustworthy media sources, global news wires, and official government news feeds.
• Utilize apps and sites offering real-time information on political uprisings, military advancements, or blasts (e.g., BBC News, Al Jazeera, Global Conflict Tracker).
• Use only credible reports and avoid gossip by cross-checking from several genuine sources.

Advice: Register with SMS emergency warnings or download protective apps such as Red Cross Emergency or UN Safety and Security App if you happen to be at high risk.

2. Create a Family Emergency Plan

A war may break out with short notice, and a family emergency plan can mean the difference between life and death.

• Designate a safe meeting point in the event family members get separated.
• Map evacuation routes and nearby shelters.
• Divide roles ;who retrieves the go-bag, who cares for children or elderly relatives, etc.
• Regularly rehearse the plan so everyone is aware of what to do during an emergency.

Recall: Communication can be interrupted. Make backup means such as written notes, landmarks, or hand signals.

3. Prepare a War-Ready Emergency Bag🎒 

During any unexpected war, your emergency go-bag can be your salvation. It should be light, rugged, and have:

• Water (minimum 2 litres per person).
• Non-perishable food (energy bars, canned food).
• First-aid kit with essential medicines and bandages.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• Cash (small bills).
• Copies of vital documents (ID, passport, medical records).
• Multi-tool or Swiss knife.
• Blankest clothes and blanket.
• Cell phone and power bank.
• Portable radio (battery-powered or solar).

Leave your go-bag in easy access to your home exit and let all your family members be aware of the location.

4. Be familiar with Safe Areas near you

Identify places where you might be safe and sheltered while the attack unfolds.

• Basements, underground garage parking, and secure buildings can protect you to some extent.
• Public bomb shelters (usually made so by authorities locally) would be the best option if it's within reach.
• Do not remain close to government offices, military camps, airports, or power stations, as these are potential targets.

If indoors during bombardment:

Move away from windows.

Crouch flat on the ground under a solid piece of furniture.

Protect yourself with mattresses or heavy furniture.

5. Learn Survival Skills and Basic First Aid

In times of war, medical assistance can be delayed. Basic first aid skills could save your life or another person's.

• Learn to stop bleeding with a tourniquet or pressure.
• Learn CPR and wound and burn treatment.
• Consider taking a basic survival training course if available (some are online for free).

Survival Skills to Practice:

Fire building

Water purification

Electricity-free cooking

Sun or compass navigation

6. Blend In and Avoid Drawing Attention

In hostile environments, one wants to remain invisible, low-profile, and non-threatening.

• Don't wear military-style clothing.
• Do not bear arms unless trained and legally permitted.
• Minimize movement, particularly at curfews or tense moments.
• Avoid the use of mobile phones or cameras in the open in sensitive locations.

Tip: Pick up a few local expressions if you're abroad. Being seen to be familiar with the surroundings lowers suspicion and makes you more able to cope.

7. Remain Mentally Tough and Emotionally Robust

War environments are emotionally demanding, and mental well-being is as vital as bodily safety.

• Stay calm. Panic leads to poor decisions.
• Practice breathing exercises or mindfulness when overwhelmed.
• Stay connected with loved ones whenever possible — social support is vital.
• Avoid graphic news and distressing social media content that may increase anxiety.

If you’re struggling: Talk to a counsellor or connect with mental health hotlines provided by humanitarian agencies.

8. Know When and How to Evacuate

If authorities announce an evacuation or if the situation becomes life-threatening:

• Leave ahead of time, avoid waiting until the very last minute when roads might be closed or bombed.
• Use main roads and not shortcuts, particularly in unfamiliar areas.
• Travel during the day, if possible.
• Have a map and compass available in case GPS or mobile data are unavailable.

Be mindful of refugee routes, humanitarian corridors, and organisations such as the UNHCR, Red Cross, and local NGOs who can offer assistance.

9. Form Coalitions with Neighbours and Community

You’re safer in numbers. A united community can share resources, protect each other, and exchange vital information.

• Identify who has medical training, tools, or extra food.
• Set up watch schedules in neighbourhoods to monitor threats.
• Organise group plans for evacuation or sheltering in place.
• Solidarity is survival in a war-torn environment.

10. Know Your Rights as a Civilian

International laws under the Geneva Conventions safeguard civilians during conflict. Although these laws are not always adhered to, being aware of your rights can:

• Prevent forced conscription
• Guard you during humanitarian assistance operations
• Make you aware when treatment by military authorities is illegal

Tip: Take a copy of your identification and evidence of your civilian status with you when traveling through zones of conflict.

Last words: Preparation is the Best Protection

War is a harsh reality, but not preparing yourselves only makes the danger to your safety and well-being greater. Staying informed, prepared, and emotionally resilient makes you more likely to survive and assist others around you.

This manual is not only for those who are already in war-torn areas but, it is a global preparedness guidebook for anyone living in today's uncertain global environment.

Take a moment now to make preparations. Being prepared today might mean the difference between life and death tomorrow.

Stay safe. Stay aware. Stay prepared.

If you have benefited from this article, share it with others — it may save lives.

Thanks for reading, 

Have a nice day 😊.