Urban exploration, often abbreviated as “urbex,” has gained popularity as an unconventional hobby that involves the exploration of man-made structures, such as abandoned buildings, tunnels, and other forgotten spaces. For preppers, urbex can serve as a thrilling and educational activity that not only offers excitement but also valuable insights into survival, emergency preparedness, and bug-out location scouting. However, it is essential to approach this hobby with caution and wisdom to avoid dangerous situations while still enjoying the thrill of discovery.
This article will discuss the hobby of urbex from a prepper’s perspective, focusing on exploration, survival, and bug-out location scouting. It will also provide guidance on how to avoid drug dens, homeless encampments, and other potentially life-threatening situations while still enjoying the excitement of urban exploration.
- The Thrill of Urbex
Urbex can be an exhilarating experience for those who enjoy adventure, history, and the unknown. Abandoned buildings and forgotten spaces often hold stories of the past, offering glimpses into bygone eras and the lives of those who once occupied these spaces. For preppers, the thrill of urbex lies not only in the excitement of exploration but also in the opportunity to learn valuable survival skills and identify potential bug-out locations.
- Learning Survival Skills
Urbex can be an excellent opportunity to practice and refine essential survival skills, such as navigation, resourcefulness, and adaptability. By exploring abandoned buildings and forgotten spaces, preppers can develop a keen sense of awareness and the ability to think on their feet. This skill set can prove invaluable in emergency situations where quick thinking and resourcefulness are crucial for survival.
- Bug-Out Location Scouting
In the event of a disaster or emergency, having a well-planned bug-out location can mean the difference between life and death. Urbex can serve as an excellent way to scout potential bug-out locations, as abandoned buildings and forgotten spaces often offer shelter, resources, and a degree of seclusion. When scouting potential bug-out locations, preppers should consider factors such as accessibility, defensibility, and proximity to essential resources like water and food sources.
- Safety and Preparedness
While urbex can be a thrilling hobby, it is essential to approach it with caution and wisdom to avoid dangerous situations. Preppers should always prioritize safety and preparedness when engaging in urban exploration. Some essential safety measures include:
- Research: Before embarking on an urbex adventure, thoroughly research the location to ensure it is safe and legal to explore. Familiarize yourself with any potential hazards, such as structural instability or hazardous materials.
- Gear: Always carry essential gear, such as a flashlight, first aid kit, communication devices, and protective clothing. Additionally, consider carrying tools like a multi-tool, lock-picking set, and rope for potential emergencies.
- Buddy system: Never explore alone. Having a buddy not only adds an extra layer of safety but also enhances the overall enjoyment of the experience.
- Respect property rights: Always respect private property and obtain permission from owners before exploring. Trespassing can lead to legal consequences and potentially dangerous encounters with property owners.
- Avoiding Dangerous Situations
While the majority of urbex locations are harmless, some can pose significant risks to explorers. Preppers should be aware of potential dangers and take steps to avoid them, including:
- Drug dens: Abandoned buildings can sometimes be used as drug dens or hideouts for criminal activities. Avoid locations that show signs of drug use or criminal activity, such as discarded needles, graffiti, or suspicious individuals.
- Homeless encampments: Some abandoned buildings may be inhabited by homeless individuals or squatters. Respecting their privacy and avoiding these locations can help prevent potentially dangerous encounters.
- Hazardous materials: Abandoned buildings may contain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead paint, or contaminated water. Be aware of potential hazards and take appropriate precautions, such as wearing protective gear or avoiding contact with potentially contaminated materials.
- Structural instability: Some abandoned buildings may be structurally unsound, posing a risk of collapse or injury. Be cautious when exploring and avoid areas that appear unstable or damaged.
- The Rewards of Urbex
Despite the potential risks, urbex can offer preppers a unique and rewarding experience that combines adventure, history, and valuable survival skills. By approaching this hobby with caution, wisdom, and respect for both property rights and the safety of others, preppers can enjoy the thrill of urban exploration while also preparing themselves for unforeseen emergencies.
- Exploring Different Types of Urbex Locations
Urbex offers a wide variety of locations to explore, each with its unique history, architecture, and potential risks. Some popular types of urbex locations include:
- Mines: Abandoned mines can be a thrilling and educational location to explore, offering a glimpse into the history of mining and the lives of those who once worked there. However, mines can also pose significant risks, such as unstable structures, cave-ins, and the presence of hazardous materials. Exploring mines should only be undertaken with proper research, preparation, and safety measures in place.
- Abandoned Schools and Hospitals: These locations often hold fascinating stories of their past, from the lives of students and patients to the evolution of education and healthcare. While generally safer than mines, abandoned schools and hospitals can still pose risks such as structural instability and the presence of hazardous materials.
- Prisons: Abandoned prisons can be an eerie and intriguing location to explore, offering a glimpse into the lives of inmates and the history of incarceration. However, these locations can also be dangerous, with potential hazards such as unstable structures, security systems, and the possibility of encountering squatters or criminals.
- Hotels: Abandoned hotels can be a fascinating exploration, offering a glimpse into the lives of guests and the history of hospitality. These locations can be relatively safe, but it is essential to be cautious of potential hazards such as structural instability and the presence of squatters.
- Urbex-Related YouTube Channels and Videos
YouTube is an excellent resource for preppers interested in urbex, offering a wealth of information, inspiration, and entertainment. Some popular urbex-related YouTube channels include:
- The Proper People: The Proper People channel features urban exploration videos that showcase abandoned buildings and forgotten spaces worldwide. Their videos provide a fascinating look into the history and stories behind these locations. (Source:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGVRfX7zB0Ysx6H07Ejxu9Q)
- Exploring with Josh: This channel features videos of urban explorer Josh as he explores abandoned buildings, tunnels, and other forgotten spaces. His videos provide a unique perspective on the history and stories behind these locations. (Source:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc-WD2VZKQu8E2K_HzZo8xQ)
- Abandoned Explorers: Abandoned Explorers is a channel dedicated to urban exploration and abandoned places. Their videos offer a look into the history and stories behind these locations, as well as valuable insights into survival skills and bug-out location scouting. (Source:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5KgLVVwzqL0sJzmn2tYYUw)
Some notable urbex-related videos include:
- “Exploring an Abandoned Prison” by The Proper People: This video offers a fascinating look into the history and stories behind an abandoned prison, showcasing the architecture, artifacts, and remnants of the lives of inmates and staff. (Source:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KjJ2mDnb6Q)
- “Exploring an Abandoned Hospital” by Exploring with Josh: This video provides a unique perspective on the history and stories behind an abandoned hospital, showcasing the architecture, artifacts, and remnants of the lives of patients and staff. (Source:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZC9Slg6GfQ)
- “Exploring an Abandoned Mine” by Abandoned Explorers: This video offers a thrilling and educational look into the history and stories behind an abandoned mine, showcasing the architecture, artifacts, and remnants of the lives of miners and the mining industry. (Source:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7a7V7J3EjI)
Conclusion
Urbex can be an exciting and educational hobby for preppers, offering opportunities for exploration, survival skill development, and bug-out location scouting. By prioritizing safety, preparedness, and respect for property rights, preppers can enjoy the thrill of urban exploration while also preparing themselves for potential emergencies. As with any hobby, it is essential to approach urbex with wisdom and caution to avoid dangerous situations and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.