Tips to Stay Safe During Civil Unrest
June 09, 2020
In our current world state, it would be an understatement to say a lot is going on. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, we are also experiencing civil unrest all over the United States including here in Los Angeles. The George Floyd protests have erupted all over the nation after George Floyd died at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer. What started as peaceful protest, turned to riots and looting in a complicated fashion. It’s had an impact on the people of Los Angeles and their businesses.
Amid these complex times, we want to provide a few tips for staying safe during civil unrest.
- Stay up to date: keeping up with the current state of the protests, where they are located, and being held is a great first step to staying safe. This includes state-level news and local news. Local news is often the best option for current information. Keep tabs on what’s going on in your area by watching live news or media. Staying informed is easier than ever due to our smartphones and news applications.
- If you hear a protest or demonstration taking place and personally feel unsafe, stay home, or avoid the specific area until you feel safe.
- If you need to run errands or go out, do so during less populated times. Be mindful that there are curfews in place, here in Los Angeles. Threats are less prevalent during daytime and hours before rioting takes place.
- If you feel your business or store is at risk, you might consider boarding up a shop or hiring a Security Guard Company In Los Angeles to help protect your store. For more information on security services and what might be the best fit for your specific needs, click here.
- Keep your cell phone charged. It’s important to keep your cell phone charged to get in contact with loved ones, know their whereabouts, and make sure they’re safe. If you are out, it’s also a good idea to have a fully charged cell phone to stay up to date on new curfews and updates.
- Check in on each other. This includes neighbors and your community especially the elder or more vulnerable. They may be less aware of the situation and what it means. Keep them safe and informed by checking in. News sources note that it might be a good idea to “have alternative ways to communicate with your neighbors and help them to make a plan in case things do get bad”
- In case of extreme emergencies, new sources also “encourage people to have an escape plan and a to-go bag… along with any medicines you might need”.
Conclusion :
This, of course, is for extreme cases. As of this week, protests and police response have become less violent. Furthermore, as a citizen, one should always stay updated and vigilant with local situations.