How to stay safe while protesting – physically and digitally

The past decade has seen record numbers of Americans take to the streets over critical issues such as gun violence, racial injustice, police brutality, and reproductive rights. More recently, the killings of US citizens in Minneapolis and countless reports of harassment and unconstitutional raids by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have sparked protests from coast to coast, including several protests. Planned for this weekend.

While demonstrations are an important way to effect change, protesters face real risks from violent counter-protesters, law enforcement responses, and health concerns when large groups gather.

Read more: What can you legally share about ICE raids on social media? I found out

CNET does not encourage violating curfews or legal restrictions. However, if you participate in a protest, here is how to protect yourself based on guidance from Amnesty International, the American Civil Liberties Union and other sources.

Get ready

Preparation is crucial. Here’s what to consider for bringing it and leaving it:

What to bring:

• A Body camera or From GoPro
• Water and snacks
• Face mask (the risk of transmission outdoors is lower, but masks still help prevent the spread of illness)
• Hand sanitizer
• Charged phone b Power bank
• Identity and money
• Safety goggles for Tear gas
• Essential medications such as inhalers
• Small backpack
• Emergency contacts written on your arm in marker
• Accompany or tell someone your location if you are going alone

What not to bring:

• Anything that would be a problem if detained – weapons, items that could be considered weapons or illegal substances
• Contact lenses (wear glasses – contact lenses can trap tear gas)
• Valuables
• Make-up (can help tear gas stick to the skin)

What to wear:

• Warm and comfortable clothing without logos or patterns
• Long sleeves and pants to protect against tear gas and cover distinctive features such as tattoos
• Sturdy shoes for quick movement (hiking boots recommended)
• A hat for protection from the sun or blending in with a crowd

What do you do with your phone

As stated By our sister site PCMag Your phone can be a safe asset, but it’s also a liability at protests. “Many smart devices track your location through multiple means. This is useful for getting directions and finding nearby objects, but it can also allow law enforcement to extract your movements after the fact. For example, photos you take with a smartphone often include their physical locations, and Google Maps He maintains Records your movements In your schedule section.

With that in mind, here are four simple steps you can take to mitigate mobile phone tracking:

• Turn off the Wi-Fi service.
• Disable location services And Bluetooth until you need them most.
• If you don’t need to use your data connection, turn it off (note that this may hinder your ability to use encrypted connections).
• Again, if you can, leave your phone at home, and if not, at least turn it off.

During the protest

Make a plan before arriving, including how and when you plan to leave. Determine your arrival and departure times, what situations might prompt you to leave and how you will exit if things escalate. Share this plan with someone who lives at home and can help if needed.

Be alert to your surroundings and crowd movements. If you feel something is wrong, leave immediately.

Law enforcement may use tear gas, rubber bullets, or other crowd control measures that can cause injuries. Your best protection is to move away from these situations quickly. If that’s impossible, figure out how to respond to these pre-identified threats.

Health precautions

Outdoor gatherings carry a lower risk of contracting the coronavirus, influenza, and colds than indoor gatherings, but the risk remains, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Complete protection means no shows, but you can reduce your risks by:

• Wear a mask
• Use hand sanitizer frequently
• Stay home if you feel sick
• Skip protests if you live with at-risk individuals

Know your rights

the The First Amendment protects Peaceful assembly, but you could still face arrest. Before attending:

• Search “(your city) protests legal support” to find local hotlines
• Save these numbers on your phone and write them on your arm
• Review your rights during protests using ACLU Guide