Rules for Survival
The following rules are in no particular order as they may alter in importance as circumstance dictates.
- Keep in good shape - although this does not seem to hold much significance, in some cases, the ability to outrun your rotting opponents may be your last hope for survival. Stamina may prove a vital weapon in the war against the undead.
- Do not hesitate - whether your attacker was previously your neighbour, best friend, father or financial advisor, once they become one with the infected, they will not delay in attempting to dismember you and neither should you. Any remaining emotional attachments will only put your own life (and possibly others) at risk.
- Keep a level head - panic and reckless behaviour may be your undoing.
- Do not advertise your whereabouts - if you are lucky enough to have a secure hideout, keep it that way – maintain a low profile, as broadcasting your location may attract unwanted guests (infected or not).
- Always have a weapon at hand - zombies can strike at any moment – even when you are at your most vulnerable (remember-sleep, fatigue and daylight are not factors for the infected). To avoid being caught off guard, it is advisable to be armed at all times – whether it’s a firearm or sharp blade etc.
- Plan ahead - you can never be too prepared for such a situation. If possible, organise a suitable shelter (e.g. strong, lockable points of entry etc.). Collect sustainable food and water resources – preferably tinned goods (non-perishables), bottled water etc. – think long-term.
- Destroy the brain - this is now fortunately common knowledge imprinted in our minds from various films and video games. Major trauma to the head has proven to be most efficient method of zombie annihilation.
- Safety in numbers? - This is another topic of intense debate – whether it is better to team up with fellow survivors or go it alone. Both scenarios have their advantages and drawbacks. In groups, support in tight situations can be life-saving, however, the actions and behaviour of others can be unpredictable (this is especially relevant when in the company of strangers). For example, if a member of the group snaps under the pressure (which is understandable, given the circumstances), they may jeopardise your position. (Note: Obviously, family units would be expected to stick together, for you can only really depend on yourself and your family in such a situation).
- Avoid densely populated areas - naturally, zombies would be expected to gather in urban areas as it is here that they are more likely to find nourishment – keep to rural/uninhabited locations where zombie encounters would be less frequent.
- Avoid close contact/combat whenever possible- the risk of infection is too great.
- Keep radio contact - it is important to maintain contact with the outside world under these circumstances in order to be aware of the location of nearby rescue stations for example. This may also keep you informed of the status of contamination control in your surrounding area.
- Do not underestimate the enemy - This is a common issue due to the nature of the enemy. Since zombies have limited brain power and are generally slow movers, their capabilities are often taken too lightly. Although individually, they are relatively easy to incapacitate, taking on a group of decomposing rivals however, can frequently have devastating results.
- Be wary of the Living - contact with uninfected individuals can, on occasion, prove to be as dangerous as contact with zombies themselves. Other survivors may have ulterior motives or hidden agendas and may use your company to their own advantage (e.g. use you as a decoy in order to make their escape etc.)-at least when confronting a zombie you know where you stand: kill or be killed.
- Treat recently bitten individuals with extreme caution - Once a member of your party is unfortunate enough to suffer a bite from the undead, it is advisable to put them out of their misery sooner rather than later (though like many tasks, this is easier said than done). Also, if you happen to come across an injured person – be warned that they may attempt to conceal the nature of their wounds. As such, keep a close eye on their actions as time progresses, looking out for the signs of infection as detailed previously.