10 Things You Need to Do When Martial Law Is Enacted

Martial law is a measure of last resort. When declared, you can be certain that the world as you knew it has changed irrevocably. Governments are not disposed toward declaring martial law due to its cost and potential for creating panic and lawlessness, and because it’s an unpopular move, governments like being popular.

Martial law also means that the authorities have realized that the level of catastrophe or threat is beyond the ability of normal law enforcement to handle.

Simply stated, sh*t has hit the fan, and local cops and other first responders are overwhelmed and unable to handle whatever is happening. Danger abounds, and the best you can do is stay under the radar and go unnoticed.

In this article, we will explore the actions you need to take against the backdrop of a timeline, providing practical tips on what you need to do immediately, within the first hour, day, or week, and also looking at martial law in the long run.

The First Hour: Immediate Response

Secure Critical Assets

The initial stages of martial law promise to be chaotic. The army has been deployed and is still figuring out exactly what to do. As a seasoned prepper, you will be ready for this. But the first hour after a declaration of martial law is a time to take drastic and effective action. Make sure your supplies are well secured. Take the time to hide crucial assets like firearms, ammunition and other high-value items.

While hiding assets, remove any evidence of habitation or other possessions that may lead authorities or looters to your location.

Cars should not be parked in the driveway, and windows and doors should be locked.

Nothing in your vicinity should draw unwanted attention.

When martial law is declared, having the ability to protect yourself and your home becomes more critical than ever. In moments like these, when the usual systems of law and order collapse, it’s crucial to be prepared for anything—from looters and opportunists to worse.

That’s why I personally turned to the Special Forces Home Defense Academy for practical, battlefield-tested strategies. The simple yet effective techniques I learned, like setting up makeshift looter traps and securing vulnerable entry points, gave me the peace of mind that I could protect my family if things got out of hand. It’s not just about having supplies—it’s about knowing how to keep them safe, no matter what comes your way.

Go Dark on Digital Footprint

We already live in a surveillance state. Even if it’s not the state surveilling you, it’s Zuckerberg, Msuk, or any tech companies selling your attention. You need to stop creating a digital footprint.

These people are reading your direct messages, so don’t invite your buddy to come over because you have more meat and beer you know what to do with. You need to disconnect from networks or devices that can eavesdrop or reveal your location.

Also, wipe data that may indicate the amount of supplies you have. If you keep track of your stockpiles digitally, ensure the devices are not networked and remain well hidden.

You need to switch to analogue or other non-digital methods of communication.

The First Day: Adjusting to the New Reality

Concealment of Supplies and Weapons

Depending on the type of threat, you could find yourself in a situation where authorities are conducting door-to-door searches under the guise of a threat assessment or some other fabricated reason to gain access.

Remember, soldiers are also people, and could be criminally inclined.

You do not want strangers or the military to know first-hand what you have stockpiled. If you neglected to address this during the normal course of prepping, now is the time to create multiple storage locations and move supplies into hiding, secret compartments, etc.

But don’t hide your stockpile in your basement. It might sound like a good idea, but here’s why you should actually never do that.

Establish Early Warning Systems

You need to secure your perimeter and set up an early warning system. The last thing you want is soldiers running around your house or property without warning.

Knowing what is on its way helps you decide the appropriate action response. This will also warn you against possible looters or scavengers who could threaten your safety or jeopardize your stockpiles. Motion sensors, tripwires, and even dogs will help you avoid being caught unawares.

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