Why Scavenging Isn’t a Good Option
In emergency situations like natural disasters, one of the first instincts of people not prepared is to scavenge for resources. While this may seem like a logical way to obtain necessary items, there are several reasons why scavenging is not a good option.
Scavenging can be dangerous
In emergency situations, there may be debris, unstable structures, or hazardous materials which can cause injury or harm. People who are not trained or equipped to deal with these dangers may put themselves at risk by attempting to scavenge.
Recently during a flood, a group of untrained individuals attempted to scavenge for supplies in a damaged and unstable building This put them in danger of injury from collapsing debris. Having to rescue them would take resources away from those already in need.
Scavenging may not provide the clean resources
In emergency situations, resources such as food, water, and medical supplies are often in high demand. Scavenging may result in finding insufficient or contaminated resources, which can have serious health consequences.
According to the World Health Organization, “Contaminated water and poor sanitation are linked to the transmission of diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio.”
Scavenging can contribute to chaos and confusion
When people start scavenging, it can create competition and conflict over resources. This can lead to panic, and violence, further endangering those involved. Instead of scavenging, it is important to focus on preparedness and planning. For instance, during natural disasters such as hurricanes, people often resort to scavenging for basic necessities like food, water, and shelter, leading to fights and thefts.
Preparing emergency kits and having a plan in place can help to alleviate stress and ensure that necessary resources are readily available.
While scavenging may seem like a viable option in disaster situations, it can be dangerous, ineffective, and contribute to the chaos. Instead, it is important to focus on preparedness and safety in order to ensure the best possible outcome during emergencies.
Make sure you are prepared by following the Final Survival Solution
