During times of war, conflict, or natural disasters, many people become displaced from their homes. Losing access to safe shelter puts individuals and families at risk of exposure to harsh weather, illness, crime, and starvation. Whether you are fleeing from an unsafe area or trying to survive in a new location, finding secure shelter is one of the first and most important survival priorities.
A proper shelter provides protection from the elements, security from danger, and a sense of stability in uncertain times. Knowing how to find, build, or secure shelter can make a life-or-death difference. Without a stable shelter, individuals are vulnerable to hypothermia in cold weather, heat exhaustion in hot climates, and other health complications due to prolonged exposure.
This guide will help you identify available shelter options, create a strategy for safety, and avoid common mistakes when seeking refuge as a displaced person in Europe or similar conflict-related situations.
Step 1: Assess Your Immediate Situation
Before searching for shelter, assess your situation carefully. This will help you determine the best course of action based on your resources, environment, and risks. Making an informed decision about where to seek shelter can prevent unnecessary danger and exhaustion.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Am I alone or with family/friends? Groups need larger shelters and more supplies, while a lone traveler may be able to find shelter in smaller, hidden locations.
- What are the weather conditions? Extreme temperatures, rain, or snow will dictate the type of shelter you need.
- Do I have any money or valuable items? Knowing your financial options can determine if renting or buying temporary shelter is possible or if you need to rely on free resources.
- Are there immediate dangers nearby? Avoid areas with ongoing conflict, high crime rates, or environmental hazards such as unstable buildings.
- What supplies do I have? Having blankets, tents, tools, or extra clothing can influence your shelter strategy. If you lack supplies, prioritizing access to aid organizations is crucial.
- Do I have access to reliable information? Knowing where humanitarian aid is being distributed, where refugee shelters are located, and what areas are safe can make all the difference.
By answering these questions, you can determine the urgency and best method for securing shelter. Making a plan before moving is essential to avoid wasting energy and risking unnecessary exposure to danger.
Step 2: Finding Shelter in an Urban Area
If you are displaced in a city or town, there are several shelter options, ranging from emergency assistance to self-secured locations. Urban areas provide access to aid, but they also come with risks such as overcrowding, crime, and resource shortages.
1. Official Refugee Centers and Aid Shelters
Many European countries have government or NGO-operated shelters where displaced people can find temporary housing. These are often the safest and most resourceful options.
- Check local government websites or aid organizations like the Red Cross, UNHCR, or local humanitarian groups for updated shelter locations.
- Visit police stations, churches, or community centers—these often serve as information hubs for those in need.
- Ask locals or volunteers for guidance—people in stable communities may have information on safe places to stay or charities that offer assistance.
- Know the rules of shelters—some may require registration, identification, or adherence to curfews, so being informed ahead of time is important.
- Stay aware of fraud and human trafficking risks—unfortunately, some people exploit displaced individuals, so only seek shelter from verified organizations.
2. Low-Cost or Temporary Housing
If official shelters are full or unavailable, look for cheap accommodations that provide short-term safety.
- Hostels, motels, or budget hotels may have low-cost emergency stays or government-funded housing programs.
- Public transport stations (train/bus terminals) sometimes offer overnight rest areas, though safety varies.
- Renting a shared apartment (if you have money) may be safer than sleeping in the streets and can be arranged through online platforms or word-of-mouth.
- Emergency community housing programs—some cities have programs that temporarily place displaced people in empty apartments or with host families.
3. Abandoned Buildings or Public Spaces (Last Resort)
If no other options exist, carefully look for safe abandoned buildings.
- Choose buildings with secure entrances—avoid unstable structures that could collapse.
- Stay hidden from view to avoid unwanted attention, but also be prepared to evacuate quickly if needed.
- Avoid areas known for crime, gang activity, or drug use.
- Create a secure sleeping area using blankets, cardboard, or soft materials to provide insulation from the ground.
Step 3: Finding Shelter in a Rural or Wilderness Area
If displaced outside a city, you must rely on nature or makeshift shelters for survival. Rural environments offer more seclusion but require more effort to secure proper shelter.
1. Natural Shelters (Caves, Forests, Hillsides)
Nature offers protection against wind, rain, and extreme temperatures if you know where to look.
- Caves and Rock Formations: These provide solid protection but must be checked for wild animals and unstable rock formations.
- Dense Forests: Trees offer wind protection, but build shelter away from potential falling branches or areas prone to flooding.
- Hillsides and Valleys: Provide wind and rain coverage, but avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding during heavy rainfall.
2. Building Emergency Shelters
If no natural shelter exists, build a temporary one using available materials.
- Tarp or Plastic Sheet Shelter: Tie a tarp between trees to create a simple waterproof roof that blocks wind and rain.
- Debris Hut: Use branches, leaves, and grass to insulate a shelter from the cold.
- Snow Shelter (in cold climates): Dig a small hole in packed snow for insulation against extreme cold.
- Dugout Shelter: If you have tools, dig into the ground and cover it with a roof of branches and leaves for warmth and concealment.
3. Seeking Help from Locals or Farms
Many rural communities in Europe have farmers or small villages that may offer help.
- Look for farms with livestock—they often have extra storage or barns that can be used for shelter.
- Ask villagers for temporary work in exchange for shelter—offering to assist with farming, cleaning, or repairs may be a way to secure a safe place.
- Engage in local churches or community centers—these can often provide food, shelter, or referrals to safe locations.
Conclusion: Secure Shelter for Stability and Safety
When displaced, finding safe shelter is one of the most important survival skills. Whether in a city or the wilderness, knowing where to look and how to protect yourself can keep you alive and improve your chances of rebuilding a normal life.
Final Recommendations:
- Assess your situation quickly—safety, weather, and resources determine your shelter options.
- Use official aid when possible—NGOs and governments often provide safer options.
- Consider long-term solutions if displacement continues.
- Prioritize hygiene and security—staying clean and avoiding unsafe areas are critical for survival.
- Remain adaptable and resourceful—flexibility increases your survival chances.
No matter how difficult the situation, a safe place to sleep is the first step toward stability and recovery.
