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WANT TO GO TO A PROTEST? Here are some tips for staying safe and unidentified:
- Mask up! Not just because of COVID, but also to hide your face. Wear a plain or disposable mask. On top of that, wear sunglasses, goggles, plain glasses, etc to hide your eyes if possible. Definitely try to at least have glasses in case of the "sad laughing gas."
- Wear simple, plain, and comfortable clothing. Do not wear anything restrictive, fancy, or flaunting of your style. If you have body features such as tattoos, scars, birthmarks, etc on your arms/legs, cover them with your clothing. If that cannot be done, use bandages or makeup.
- Buy a burner flip phone. They are usually cheap. Leave your real phone at home, and supply only one or two emergency contact numbers on the phone. Make sure the contacts know that you are using their number for this purpose.
- Bring a backpack! Make sure it is plain and simple, preferably black or brown as well. In this bag have several water bottles, some hairspray or perfume (to use for self defense), extra shoes (if possible), an extra mask or box of disposable masks, and a first aid kit. I'll make another post about what to put in a first aid kit later
- If you see bricks or blocks stacked up, do not even look too long in that direction. It is bait. DONT BE THE PERSON TO START A RIOT.
- If shit goes south, have an escape route planned out. A nearby friend or family member who's house you can run to is preferred. If this isn't possible, discuss with your emergency contact a place to meet up in case of emergency.
- Have a group of people you stick with. These people could be friends, family, or even just someone nice you could've met before the protest started. Don't be alone.
- Make sure people know where you’re going, when you’re going, and an estimated time that you’re returning. If any of this changes, let them know via your burner phone ASAP