Protesting and Your Safety
Due to the recent events unfolding in America, it's timely to consider the safety of protesters and those caught in the crossfire of violent protests.
By Shayne Eather
Firstly, let me just start by saying I believe it is our rights as citizens of the world to stand up for what we believe in and hold true with ethics and integrity. That being said, I believe the majority of citizens would agree there is no room for violence or tolerance for violence under any circumstances. It is an unfortunate reality, that there are people out there who don’t share this opinion and will act or react with violence.
So how do we preserve our safety; "Personal Protection" and even our lives if we are caught up in a violent encounter?
Firstly, it must be understood, our circumstances and situation is our RESPONSIBILITY and no one else’s. What do I mean by responsibility? The ABILITY TO RESPOND.
We all have choices and whilst some circumstances appear at first glance to only have 1 path to choose, on reflection or hindsight, it becomes apparent that there were other options leading up to the outcome.
Here are a few options available to you for you to consider:
- Think Safety First: If you believe a protest you are at, are planning on attending, or a just caught up in by being in the same location could turn violent, whether verbal or otherwise, then LEAVE or DON’T ATTEND. This appears obvious, but unfortunately, pressures of groups or strengths of beliefs can cause us to make poor decisions. It doesn’t matter how much passion you have on a particular subject; your safety and the safety of others is paramount. There is always many other platforms and opportunities to get your message across.
- Always Be Alert: Simple peaceful protests can turn heated in split second. So, ensure you remain alert and aware of your situation; we call this Situational Awareness. In a large gathering, make the choice to stay on the outskirts and be Situationally Aware of an escape route should things track down a path you are not comfortable with.
- Listen to Your Instinct: That gut-feeling you get when something is not quite right, is your first warning to Think Safety. DO NOT ignore it!!! It is better to listen to your instinct and remain safe than the alternate.
- Protest With Friends: It is always wise whether in protests or general outing to have a person or a couple of people with you. This helps with having extra senses maintaining Situation Awareness as well as reducing the vulnerability of being alone. However, whichever family or friends you choose to be with, take the time to ensure you all agree on a game plan for safety of yourselves and others.
- Tell Someone: This point is also for general outings as well as protests. Let someone know where you are going, who you will be with and when you are expected to return. Make sure you advise them you will contact them upon safely departing your destination. That way, should they not hear from you, they can commence an action plan.
- Protect Yourself with Video Phones: A lot of discussions in the world security industry question the increased safety provided by whipping out your mobile phone and starting to record. I believe this is a situational determination that needs to be made on a case by case basis. Whilst videoing incidents is great for later evidence, it must be remembered that there are high risks involved with this method. What if the incident you are videoing has a person involved who does not want to be recognised for their actions? What if they have other allies who do not want the evidence produced? Where is your Situational Awareness whilst you are looking at the screen of your phone?
The sudden rush of adrenalin whether from excitement or fear, forces tunnel vision which dramatically reduces your vision, directly focuses your hearing on the event and reduces your ability to rationally go through the thought process required to make and informed decision on your course of action. This is why the above points are so important. Predetermining plans of actions and practicing the above points on a daily basis will create automatic behavioural responses to allow you to respond efficiently under these circumstances.
Remember, the choice is always yours and you have ability to respond, the responsibility. Empower yourself, Empower your family, Empower your friends and remain safe so you can continue to express yourself, your beliefs and tell your story for many years to come.
Australian security industry leader Shayne Eather heads up ISC’s security consultancy, providing expert security manpower and electronic security solutions for both homeowners and businesses – including providing alarms, CCTV and security monitoring solutions.