Preparing and Staying Safe During Civil Unrest

The growing number of incidents of civil unrest in our nation is undeniable. Dramatic world events, the expanding chasm between socioeconomic classes, and political division stem from social movements, demonstrations, and emotionally driven acts of civil unrest. Although demonstrations, strikes, and public gatherings can be peaceful, we have seen an uptick in violent acts and straight-out internal threats against our nation. Peaceful situations can quickly turn violent, escalating into situations where people are stuck in unsafe conditions. Students on school campuses, commuters on the train, or an average citizen out running errands can prepare for unexpected, unpredictable moments. The solution is not sticking our heads in the sand, but being knowledgeable and prepared for civil unrest and knowing how to stay safe.

Awareness of Current Events

Having an awareness of current events does not mean obsessing over conflicts and assuming the worst. Instead, it is having knowledge of current events that may adversely impact daily life. As events unfold daily, protests can occur without notice, and being aware of situations to avoid and skipping those that carry a higher risk is smart. Students on university campuses have experienced first-hand attacks with active shooters targeting students and faculty on campus. Checking the credibility of news about events and staying informed about safety measures, such as alert systems, is something all students and university staff should do. Government agencies and other businesses may also have an alert system, and these official communication channels can save lives.

Identify Alternative Routes

During civil unrest, urban areas can be at great risk. Protests can cause traffic jams, street closures, and restless crowds, making it difficult to get out. Having a lane for an alternative route out of the area, should something arise, allows people to stay safe even if an unexpected situation arises. It was less than six months ago that 1,000 protestors blocked the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, leading to chaos and unsafe conditions for innocent bystanders and those just trying to go about their lives. When walking, try to stay in groups and avoid dimly lit areas and dead-end routes. If trapped during civil unrest, seek shelter in a business or public building. Planning and having an alternative route out of an area is smart planning.

Situational Awareness for Safety

Unfortunately, people often have their heads down, looking at their phones instead of watching their surroundings. Only awareness of the space and situations around us allows us to identify risks and dangers and act quickly enough to avoid them. Civil unrest can erupt without warning, and crowds can turn dangerous in an instant. The best thing individuals can do while out in public is to stay aware of what is happening, which gives them the most time to avoid a dangerous situation and reach safety. If people start running, or you hear shouting or sirens, scan for the nearest exit and move away from the densest part of the crowd. If there is a security guard in the area, they have the training and skills to provide guidance and are equipped to act in emergency situations. It is best not to approach law enforcement because if a crowd turns, you don’t want to get caught in between them and the crowd. If any gas is deployed, cover your nose and mouth and move as far away as quickly as possible.

Don’t Get Involved

If violence breaks out during civil unrest, this is not the time to be heroic or get involved. The consequences of getting involved in an emotionally charged situation like this can be serious. Knowing the warning signs of an escalating civil unrest movement allows individuals to get away safely and calmly. Avoiding confrontation in these moments is not weakness but wisdom. If you are responsible for others, this is even more critical. Stay low, calm, and move along walls and barriers. Do not draw attention and leave confrontations to the professionals!

Being Prepared is Essential

Today, being prepared means being aware, planning, and having basic emergency plans in place. Knowing what to do if things go wrong can help avoid chaos and can save lives. Businesses and individuals are counting on skilled and experienced security guards and law enforcement to protect them, but everyone has a responsibility to protect themselves. Businesses in high-risk areas should implement a security strategy that includes armed or unarmed security guards, a comprehensive security system, and employee training. It is everyone’s responsibility to be prepared and not live in a fake reality where violent unrest occurrences can’t turn on a dime to a dangerous and life-threatening scenario.

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