Surviving a Year in a Big City as the Last Person
The prospect of being the sole survivor in a bustling metropolis might seem like a scenario straight out of a dystopian movie. However, with the right resources and knowledge, it is indeed possible to make it through a year in such a setting. In this article, we will explore the challenges and opportunities facing someone in this unique situation, detailing the resources available and the strategies that would aid in survival.
Understanding the Challenges
Adapting to life in a big city as the last person alive is fraught with challenges. Key concerns include:
Systematic Failures: Without maintenance, essential systems like power and water might shut down. This could lead to fires due to long-term neglect, posing a significant risk. Wildlife: After some time, local fauna could become an issue. Urban wildlife that thrives in these conditions might affect your survival. Pets and Animals: If there are pets or animals in the city, handling them responsibly becomes crucial. Large predators or venomous reptiles could pose a threat if left unchecked. Security: With no other humans around, securing your location is paramount to ensure you are not harmed.Key Resources Available
Despite the challenges, numerous resources can facilitate your survival if you are the lone survivor in a big city. Here are some essentials you would need:
Bottled Water and Food Supplies
Prioritizing hydration and nutrition is key. Access to bottled water, canned food, frozen food, and refrigeration or freezers can be found within the city. Small corner stores, while rapidly depleting under normal circumstances, might still have a few stores’ worth of supplies left if you are the only person around.
Energy and Power
Access to energy is vital for survival. Generators, solar panels, and batteries provide practical solutions to keep lights on and devices charged. Wood, paper, and cardboard, as well as actual oil and gas, can be used for fuel. Large office buildings and homes will likely have significant reserves of these fuels.
Safe Shelter and Transportation
Secure living spaces and transportation options can mean the difference between thriving and barely surviving. Look for places with plenty of space and no immediate threats from wildlife or abandoned structures. Automobiles in good condition can be a lifesaver, and if you are adept at hot-wiring them, you can always keep moving without concerns about theft or maintenance.
Health and Safety
Medical and first aid supplies are non-negotiable. Pharmacies and first aid kits can provide necessary health support in the event of injuries or diseases. Considering the medical care aspect, it is advisable to have some basic medical training and supplies.
Firearms and Security
Firearms and ammunition can be found in various locations. If you are unarmed, it is crucial to secure these resources as quickly as possible. Zoos and animal enclosures could be a one-time source of food, but killing the animals there is a strategy of last resort due to the need to care for too many and the potential for escaped predators or dangerous animals.
Hypothetical Scenarios
Considering different scenarios, such as a pandemic-induced quarantine or a post-apocalyptic scenario, provides further context. In each case, initial access to water and food is crucial. Even in a decommissioned or bombed-out city, the existence of resources like wood, paper, and fossil fuels can be a valuable source of fuel.
The key to surviving a year in a big city as the last person is resourcefulness, strategic thinking, and a solid plan of action. With the right mindset and access to essential supplies, it is entirely possible to make it through the year and beyond.