How to Conduct a Personal Risk Assessment When Attending Protests
Knowing what level of risk you are comfortable with is important. Resist Safely.
Attending a protest requires careful consideration of risks based on personal circumstances, the nature of the event, and potential outcomes. Here’s a guide to conducting a personal risk assessment and key factors to consider:
1. Understand the Protest and Potential Risks
Type of Protest: Is it a peaceful march, direct action, or civil disobedience? Each carries different risks.
Organizers & Messaging: Are the organizers reputable? Is there a history of escalation at similar protests?
Expected Law Enforcement Response: Are there past reports of aggressive policing in similar events? Are curfews or emergency orders in place?
Counterprotesters & Opposition Groups: Are there known groups that may show up to cause conflict?
2. Assess Your Personal Risk Factors
Legal Considerations:
Do you have outstanding legal issues, immigration status concerns, or professional risks if arrested?
Are you in a jurisdiction with anti-protest laws or heavy surveillance?
Have you researched your rights in case of detention?
Health & Safety:
Do you have any medical conditions that could be triggered (asthma, anxiety, etc.)?
Are you prepared for tear gas, pepper spray, or crowd surges?
Will you have access to water, food, and medication if needed?
Identity & Privacy:
Are you part of a vulnerable group (LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, etc.) that may be disproportionately targeted?
Do you want to take precautions to avoid being doxxed or identified in photos/videos?
Would wearing a mask or obscuring identifying marks (tattoos, hair color, etc.) help protect your privacy?
3. Plan Your Involvement and Exit Strategy
Go With a Group: Protests are safer with trusted friends who can look out for each other.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with protest laws, police tactics, and legal aid numbers.
Have an Exit Plan: Identify safe routes, public transport options, and a meetup spot if separated.
Minimize Digital Footprint: Use encrypted messaging (Signal), disable biometric phone unlock, and consider airplane mode to prevent tracking.
4. Pack Smart
Essential Items:
Water, snacks, and first-aid supplies
ID (only if necessary), emergency contacts, and a lawyer’s number written down
Goggles, masks, and saline solution (for tear gas)
Comfortable clothing, non-identifiable outfit, and protective gear (if needed)
Avoid Bringing:
Anything that could be considered a weapon
Identifiable documents or unnecessary personal items
Your primary phone (if you can use a burner instead)
5. Post-Protest Considerations
Legal & Medical Aftercare: If arrested or injured, seek help immediately.
Security & Privacy: Scrub metadata from any protest footage before sharing.
Emotional Processing: Protests can be intense—talk to trusted friends or decompress as needed.