For some, the 9-11 terrorist attacks made them realize that despite all preparations and precautions, the U.S., like any other nation, is vulnerable to attacks from outside. If you are concerned about your personal safety and that of your family, this guide will provide tips on how to survive a foreign invasion.

For some, the 9-11 terrorist attacks made them realize that despite all preparations and precautions, the U.S., like any other nation, is vulnerable to attacks from outside. If you are concerned about your personal safety and that of your family, this guide will provide tips on how to survive a foreign invasion.

• Although the U.S. Government has many security measures in place to protect citizens against and take action in the event of a foreign invasion, the possibility of such an event still exits. However unlikely the chance that terrorists or other enemies will invade the U.S., your chances of survival will increase significantly if you are prepared for such an event. Preparation for a foreign invasion involves the same measures you would take to ready yourself for any emergency, whether it's a natural disaster, or nuclear, biological or chemical attack.

• To effectively prepare for any emergency situation, you should establish an emergency plan with your family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. This plan should include:

1. How to get out of the building in case of fire or other potentially dangerous situation
2. How to contact each other if you become separated
3. Where to meet in case you become separated
4. Knowing where the nearest emergency facilities (hospital, police station, etc.) are

• If your neighborhood, workplace, or children's daycare or school does not have such a plan in effect, volunteer to help establish one. Ensuring that you and those around you know what to do in case of an emergency can reduce panic and even safe lives if the worst happens.

(Creative Commons photo by Darraghkelly)

• In the unlikely event of a foreign invasion or other emergency situation, you may be advised to stay in your home for several days until the situation has been brought under control. To prepare for this possibility, put together a kit of emergency supplies that you may need. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends that the following be included in your emergency kit:

1. At least three gallons per person of clean water
2. Enough non-perishable food to last you and your family for at least three days. Remember to also include a can opener so that you can access the food
3. A fully-stocked first aid kit
4. Blankets, sleeping bags and other supplies for bedding and warmth
5. A change of clothes for each family member
6. A battery-powered radio
7. At least one battery-powered flashlight
8. Extra batteries
9. Dust masks for all family members
10. Pet food and water for pets, if applicable
11. Diapers and baby formula, if applicable
12. Soap, moist towelettes, disinfectant and other hygienic supplies
13. Garbage bags for waste disposal
14. Waterproof matches
15. A fire extinguisher

• If an emergency does occur, your best bet is to get yourself and your family to a safe place and then wait for instructions from the authorities. Be aware that in the event of an emergency, it may be difficult to contact the authorities via telephone, so turn on your radio and tune into local or international news. As difficult as it may be to remain calm and patient, your chance of survival improves if you remain in a sheltered location and wait until you receive further instructions on what to do.

• As is the case with any emergency, being prepared for a foreign invasion is the first step toward survival. For more information on how to prepare for an emergency situation, contact your local department of The Red Cross or visit the Ready America website, from which you can download preparedness plans and checklists. For more information on surviving specific types of attacks, see Mahalo's guides on How to Survive a Biological Attack, How to Survive a Chemical Attack and How to Survive a Nuclear Attack.

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• Introduction
• Step 1: Make a Plan
• Step 2: Put Together an Emergency Kit
• Step 3: Stay Connected
• Conclusion