Ten commandments of dos and don’ts

1

Most violent demos happen at night

  • Wear dark clothing
  • Carry the minimum money necessary
  • Use a mobile phone discreetly

2

Carry a minimum amount of equipment

NO bulging camera bag or laptop computer

3

Don’t use flash

It’ll pinpoint you, and you may get a brick by return

4

Don’t wander off on your own

Stick with colleagues, or in sight of police lines.

5

Always try to be on the move

Don’t stand still for more than a few moments; you tend to stay alert if you’re on the move, and always be aware of what’s going on around you.

6

Don’t hold extended conversations on your mobile phone

It’ll distract you from what’s going on around you. If the office keep calling you, tell them to stop. You’ve got a riot to cover.

7

Use a concealed zip fastened pocket for valuables

If you must carry valuables like a credit card, use a concealed zip fastened pocket for this, and the bulk of your cash. Carry a fiver in an outside pocket ready to “make available” in case you get mugged…if they see your pocket is otherwise empty, they may move on.

8

Do not take anything for granted

Know. Be certain and don’t attract attention to yourself by your clothes or by your actions.

9

Do not be foolhardy or macho

That last good quote or last good photo should not be your last.

10

Do not imagine it can’t happen to you – IT CAN!